2024 A Variety Of Best Shows & Best Movies For Adults - For Men & Women - A Give Me Something New To Watch List
Please use "Sort by" to better navigate the list to your liking. Are you someone who says "help me find new shows and new movies to watch"? If you are, this list of movie and tv show recommendations may be perfect for you. This list is curated for individuals seeking to explore new viewing options, with a focus on content that may resonate more with those who value traditional family-oriented themes. Some movies feature edgier elements, this is not an exclusively wholesome list in nature. By browsing this list you may find some new (to you) movies, TV shows, and streaming shows to watch with your wife, girlfriend, fiancé, boyfriend, husband, family, friends et cetera, from the past nearly 100 years of entertainment. Will be adding more details and new content suggestions, as time allows. Check back for updates because this is a work in progress!
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- DirectorAsif KapadiaJoe SabiaStarsRoger FedererMirka FedererLeo FedererFollows the last 12 days of the career of a tennis player considered the best ever as he plays his final tournament.This emotionally charged documentary traces Roger Federer's career, family dynamics on the road, retirement, and final match. It beautifully captures the poignant emotions within his family as he gears up for his last tennis match. The retirement of great athletes always resonates as a pivotal moment in sports, and this film uniquely offers a glimpse behind the scenes, capturing the emotional unveiling of Federer's retirement decision and so much more.
Documented are the factors that influenced Federer's retirement decision, including the individuals and reasons behind their impact. The film features nostalgic footage of Federer's tennis career, showcasing flashbacks of his dominance on the court and childhood home videos of him playing tennis. It also delves into his recovery from injuries, with Federer candidly expressing that had he known he would undergo four surgeries, he "would have never embarked on this journey." This provides insight into the physical toll these surgeries have taken on him, a perspective captured eloquently in the documentary. He later emphasized that his journey had been perfect and that he would do it again. This contrasted with his initial statement, which primarily reflected the difficulties he faced with his physical setbacks, whereas his subsequent remarks captured a more enduring emotional perspective. Which reflects the emotional journey and roller coaster this documentary takes you on.
Federer also delves into the psychological complexities that characterize a tennis match, providing insightful specifics. Additionally, he expresses his admiration for Bjorn Borg, underscoring Borg's influence as a crossover megastar whose legacy paved the way for subsequent stars like Federer.
The film also chronicles the legendary rivalry and friendship between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, offering infectious and inspirational footage. It provides an insightful glimpse into Federer's life as he readies himself for his final match.
Educational and inspirational, the documentary offers retrospective views of key moments from one of the greatest athletes in modern sports. Federer is a true class act and champion, making this an enjoyable and enriching viewing experience. - DirectorPaul CrowderStarsChris KapuschanskyBrian KesselringMonica BorzaFollows the veterans and newest class of Navy and Marine Corps flight squadron as they go through intense training and into a season of heart-stopping aerial artistry.This documentary showcases spectacular aerial footage of the Blue Angels, offering a comprehensive capture of various maneuvers and techniques from captivating angles that will enthrall airplane and military enthusiasts alike. The film delves into how seasoned Blue Angel pilots mentor new recruits, capturing the intensity and pressure they face leading up to their shows.
- DirectorDavid AyerStarsJason StathamEmmy Raver-LampmanBobby NaderiA kind-hearted landlady commits suicide after falling victim to a phishing scam, leading former "Beekeeper" operative Adam Clay to set out on a brutal campaign for revenge upon those responsible.The movie takes an unconventional approach in its plot. Jason Statham's character, Adam Clay, lives an ordinary life as a beekeeper but also operates within a covert group dedicated to societal protection. He plays the role of a beekeeper determined to defend the hive, or in this instance, seeking justice for seniors who have been swindled out of their life savings. This dual role introduces a new type of hero akin to James Bond, John Wick, or the Equalizer.
Phylicia Rashad's portrayal of an elderly woman scammed out of millions adds depth to the story, driving Clay's quest for justice. However, the film touches on modern American issues, featuring a female President reminiscent of Hillary Clinton with a corrupt son resembling Logan or Jake Paul. Emmy Raver-Lampman's character is introduced with openly racist assumptions, and her performance falls flat and uninspiring, appearing too frequently in the movie. Her character almost had me sympathizing with the villains which is problematic since it was her mother who was scammed and committed suicide. With such built-in sympathy, this should have been an easy character to add sympathy with, but she did the opposite.
Despite these issues, the film remains an enjoyable action flick that gives viewers a fresh reason to support the hero's mission of avenging the elderly. This is not a movie I'd recommend to anyone expecting some compelling story, but rather it's a creative attempt to redefine our movie heroes from a branding perspective anchored by the simplicity of the original idea. Taking inspiration from Agent 007 and Ethan Hunt, the Beekeeper covertly steps up to protect the hive, with the Beekeeper paling in comparison to the elite status of other legendary super agents. - DirectorDoug LimanStarsJake GyllenhaalDaniela MelchiorConor McGregorEx-UFC fighter Dalton takes a job as a bouncer at a Florida Keys roadhouse, only to discover that this paradise is not all it seems.The first film features an ex-rodeo cowboy named James Dalton who's objective is to clean up a bar in the Missouri Ozarks. In the 2024 adaptation, Jake Gyllenhaal portrays Elwood Dalton, a former UFC fighter renowned for his exceptional combat prowess, recruited to restore order at a roadhouse in the Florida Keys. The original film has a more laid-back + relatable neo-western tone, with a more compelling romantic angle, while setting more relatable hooks. The strongest case for the new film lies in its authentic fight scenes, the involvement of Conor McGregor, its heightened pace, and intensified action sequences including oceanic scenes. However, it sacrifices some of the heart, creative storytelling, and charm found in its predecessor in favor of a less captivating more action-oriented discombobulated approach with subtle progressive pandering.
- DirectorJuan Carlos FresnadilloStarsMillie Bobby BrownRay WinstoneAngela BassettA dutiful damsel agrees to marry a handsome prince, only to find the royal family has recruited her as a sacrifice to repay an ancient debt.Great visuals, great pageantry, but once again Hollywood writer syndrome on full display!
The movie begins with a statement that "there are stories where a heroic knight saves the damsel in distress" "but this is not one of them." I rolled my eyes after this statement, but please let me explain. The film tries to position itself as unique with this story type, but in reality, it's part of a broader trend in Hollywood. It's perfectly fine to explore different perspectives and enjoy snapshots of history, whether they reflect wider realities or not. Inverted realities can offer fantastical story possibilities and prove wildly successful, but presenting them so frequently does the opposite and undermines the impact or temporary shock value of an inverted reality. Despite the fatigue from presentations promoting inverted realities as the norm, my enthusiasm for this film remained strong, despite this immediate reminder that this wouldn't do anything but strengthen that fatigue.
The title already suggests a unique twist with it's singularity that perhaps this is a Damsel of forceful destiny rather than of articulate majesty. While corporately enforced modern trends may challenge or reverse social norms, this has become tiresome. Many men dream of being a hero who saves a loved one, and many women still cherish tales of being rescued. This now repetitive modern corporately crafted narrative overlooks the reality that damsels in distress often represented distinguished figures such as royalty, Christian leaders, and influencers; who faced challenging situations where male assistance became necessary. Criticizing damsels in distress as lesser than diminishes their actual roles; many of these women led inspiring lives that continue to captivate and empower modern audiences. It's actually fairly ignorant to automatically portray or hint at this as negative.
From its outset, this film captivates with a gripping scene where a king and his men are decimated and incinerated by a mysterious shadowy dragon. The royal family's forebears slew three infant dragons. To maintain their presence on the land, the dragon demands three sacrifices, which is where Elodie's role in that scenario begins.
The visuals in this film are stunning, with exceptional locations, tremendous costumes, awe-inspiring CGI, and cinematography of elevated quality. The castles, chariots, and pageantry in this movie is breathtaking.
The film incorporates passive modern progressive themes. Attempting to cater to "everything for everyone" can hinder viewers from fully immersing themselves in the world of a story, as writers often refrain from committing to a specific authentic snapshot. This approach is tiresome as it tries to reprogram subconscious expectations in a cringeworthy fashion and is the definition of cultural appropriation. Long-time moviegoers have endured such cringeworthy narratives, while remaining polite about the annoyance, hoping Hollywood will eventually come to it's senses.
If these discombobulated themes had been imposed on the main character's story arc, the film might have faced rejection due to its inherent lack of relatability. Instead, themes are inserted into surrounding narratives, undermining authenticity. Rather than striving for a historically plausible environment, we're subjected to perverted idealized future visions. Such deviations from realism can disrupt the immersion in films, making it difficult to fully engage with the story. Even if the film doesn't personally resonate, it can still be enjoyable to immerse oneself in the authenticity of another culture, if presented authentically. A one-size-fits-all strategy ensures that no one fully connects with a film because there is a built-in limit to how much disbelief can be suspended. At this juncture in Hollywood cultural appropriation appears to operate as a one-way street.
The film predictably portrays a broken family dynamic. Hollywood seldom explores a compelling narrative about a character like Elodie who comes from a thriving family with both parents. Instead, the trend leans towards depicting broken homes, which some argue contributes to societal erosion.
Elodie's father is a feckless king with no discernment who offers her to another kingdom because he needs money. Her father finds out what will happen to her during a private meeting, and still goes with it initially, further deepening Fatherly betrayal. Her step mother predictably is the only one to show discernment within this inverted reality. One might question whether the Father's later remorse in seeking to find his daughter was genuine character development or the studio's intervention to mitigate the awful portrayal of a father. The father abandoned his daughter to be sacrificed by the dragon. Her father left her to die, then left for an extended period, only to return much later when the situation should have been resolved, and he dies. This aspect of the movie is frustrating to watch. To compound matters, later in the film, Elodie returns to her father's body. Instead of depicting a moment of emotional conflict, she simply pauses, stares at her deceased father and his sword, sheathes the sword, and departs without displaying any emotion. Such emotionally vacant moments occur frequently throughout the film, demonstrating the writer's apparent ignorance of human reactions and realistic portrayals. Writing is a disaster.
Elodie's deceptive husband of a forced marriage actually throws her off a bridge for sacrifice, which obviously can evoke a pervasive feeling of distrust towards men. This depiction, whether intended by the writer or stemming from personal experience, conjures up dark emotions. Many viewers long to see more balanced representations in media, fostering a world where women can trust men and strive for happier homes. Continuously depicting situations where women feel unable to trust men, some argue, could detrimentally impact both individual psyche and societal attitudes toward relationships. Essentially, any man Elodie cared about was depicted as a destructive force, which has become a tiresome plot device. It's intriguing that amidst the prevalent and risky isolationist "do it on your own" messaging aimed at a female audience, the villainous Red Priestess also entices Elodie with the illustrious history of female legacy within her nefarious kingdom, the irony. Is it this challenging to create engaging narratives where the female character can trust both her father and her husband? Is it truly impossible to set a positive standard for husbands and fathers that men would aspire to emulate? Is it really necessary to consistently portray instrumental and important male characters in a way that leaves female viewers feeling utterly hopeless?
Later, the deceitful husband reappears to argue against sacrificing the younger sister, now that Elodie is alive and has escaped the dragon's threat. Was this intervention by the studio to again pad the awful writing? It's baffling that a man who would lure a princess into her own sacrificial death, through an elaborate scheme where he promises her the world, but would suddenly express concerns about her sister. The writing in this film is reminiscent of attaching a cruise ship boat anchor to the back of a Learjet.
Some may argue there's a concerning trend in films like this where characters like Elodie start with long, flowing, royal-looking hair only to later cut it off, adopting a less traditionally feminine appearance. This narrative choice can be seen as erosive and suggestive. Encouraging women to shy away from embracing the beauty of their hair is potentially detrimental and deserves reconsideration, as well. These are the types of inverted realities that Hollywood insistently presents to the public in a triumphant manner.
The film's conclusion leans in to a predictable racist passive-aggressive theme. The dragon's assertion that "your kind were never innocent" diverges from the actual narrative. Elodie finds herself suddenly categorized as a villain due to her "kind" never being innocent. This attempt to demonize a group, contrary to the story's narrative, was predictable and suggests a much deeper bias against Elodie's background. While some may argue that having the villainous dragon make this statement could enhance the writing, portraying Elodie's triumph over a racist dragon, the frequency of such themes in Hollywood stories warrants scrutiny. These recurring motifs often carry racist undertones and have become overly prevalent in today's entertainment landscape.
In another example of poor writing, earlier in the film Elodie uses healing bugs to heal herself. In the climactic finish, instead of fully defeating the dragon, she uses the healing bugs to heal the dragon who had been killing innocent girls and Elodie's father! Elodie finds redeemable qualities in the homicidal dragon and saves her with the healing bugs. In contrast, her father receives no such attention or emotional resolution, he simply dies. The individual responsible for this script seems disconnected from genuine human emotions.
The film concludes as Elodie uncovers another staged marriage. She urges the bride-to-be "flee with your family", although Elodie now controls the dragon that would be a threat so this essentially makes no sense. Elodie offers the corrupt royal family a chance to leave peacefully, they don't leave. The prince hints at needing to participate in one more sacrifice, Elodie disregards this without offering a meaningful response that she now controls the dragon so sacrifices are now not needed. Despite having escaped the dragon's threat and now controlling it Elodie inexplicably chooses revenge. Elodie commands the dragon to incinerate them with its fiery breath. Most would argue "well, they deserved it," but the film provided too many reasons for a moral character to teach them a lesson without resorting to lethal force. A greater emphasis on necessity rather than enjoyment of vengeance makes it more redeemable.
Could have been a great film. Writing destroys rewatchability. - DirectorAdam WingardStarsRebecca HallBrian Tyree HenryDan StevensTwo ancient titans, Godzilla and Kong, clash in an epic battle as humans unravel their intertwined origins and connection to Skull Island's mysteries.
- StarsErin FrenchMichael DuttonIt's winter, and The Lost Kitchen is closed for the season. So Chef Erin French ventures out on a cross-country road trip to discover new ingredients and fresh inspiration for another season of cooking at the restaurant.Erin French from The Lost Kitchen embarks on a cross-country journey in search of fresh ideas and inspiration for her esteemed cooking methods, featured in a delightful series.
- DirectorLiz W. GarciaStarsEmma RobertsTom HopperPoppy LiuRex, a Florida party girl, turns out to be the only hope for the NASA space program after a fluke puts her in training with other candidates who may have better resumés, but don't have her smarts, heart, and moxie.Julia Roberts' neice Emma Roberts stars in this film which immediately caught my interest. Tom Hopper's portrayal of Dr. O'Leary was enjoyable and memorable. Kuhoo Verma's portrayal of Violet Marie Vislawski had a genuine quality to it. Gabrielle Union delivered a status quo performance as Pam Proctor and did deliver openly racist Anti-White lines late in the film. Troy Iwata was typical and predictable as Hector Kaneko. Desi Lydic's memorable portrayal of Dr. Stacy Kellogg carried quality gravitas which provided a strong counterbalance to the Rex Simpson character. Desi Lydic truly stands out in this film. Portraying NASA-level intelligence among recruits demands a significant degree of gravitas, which is still important for some credibility even within a fictional comedy.
Josephine Huang's portrayal of Miriam Osprey and Yasha Jackson's portrayal of Grace Jackson added further balance with a similarly composed disposition to Dr. Kellogg's, collectively helping to somewhat offset the eccentric character dynamics which developed in Act 2. Andrew Call consistently provided comedic moments as Captain Jack Mancini throughout the film. Nadine Cai's portrayal of Poppy Liu was lively and welcoming. The treadmill scene elicited the most genuine laughter during the film. Emma Roberts possesses Julia Roberts' smile but has yet to display her undeniable gravitas, a quality that may or may not develop over time.
However creating an imbecilic comedic film that features imbecilic comedy in an unrelatable setting undermines the effectiveness of its humor. Comedy is inherently funnier when it resonates with the audience. Often in contemporary films, the protagonist's friends are markedly different from them, and there's frequently an absent parent. Hollywood's efforts to appeal broadly can sometimes result in environments that resonate with few. Characters overly exaggerate their words and actions to emphasize the stereotypical social roles these characters play, yet fail to develop any relatability. Instead, it comes across as forceful injections of propaganda. The film is heavily infused with American left-wing messaging.
Notice how films promoting supposed equal representation often omit a compelling, relatable, and creatively persuasive Christian character, thereby establishing a clear pattern where sources advocating inclusiveness consistently oppose quality Christian representation. In the film, Kuhoo Verma's character Violet Marie Vislawski accidentally demonstrates a strong Christian virtue when she warns Rex Simpson that deceit never ends well. Despite the irony in such a statement within a modern liberal-leaning film, honesty is upheld as a Christian virtue with clear consequences for dishonesty.
To enjoy this comedy, you'll need to overlook a pervasive promotion of liberal ideology. The film does promote the pursuit of academic excellence through the characters of Toddrick Spencer, Rex Simpson, and others so it wasn't entirely negative. The main character's strong desire to honor her mother, by becoming an astronaut, is a reminder of the commandment from God to "Honor thy father and thy mother," which can be taken as a Christian virtue woven into the non-Christian story although Rex ultimately resorts to deception in an attempt to achieve her goals, which is not condoned by Christian principles.
For many viewers, the most relatable moment in the film will likely be the father's laughter at his daughter's early poor choices, which occurs early on in the film. This moment may resonate with those who have experienced similar situations from either or both perspectives.
Overall, this movie may not be worth the trouble for well-meaning centered adults. If these are the comedy options, walks in the park might become more appealing. The story itself had promise, especially given widespread fascination with NASA and space. The cast delivered solid performances, showcasing considerable talent.
However, the potential was squandered because the focus was on insufferably forced radical left-wing messaging instead of finding creative ways to place Julia Roberts niece's character in more endearing and enjoyable situations. These films have become a jumble of predictable, rampant yet disjointed messaging, where frantic propaganda MUST be placed throughout, making them increasingly hard to appreciate.
If you can overlook the fringe propaganda, there might be some fun to be had with this film but be forewarned, it's another one of "those" films. What else do we expect of Hollywood these days? - StarsGaley AlixWall Street executive, viral content creator and DIY designer Galey Alix uses her do-it-yourself skills to give homeowners a new lease on life by working unrelenting hours with her team to turn out stunning home renovations.A great series featuring a motivated young woman who proves that with determination, you can successfully manage two challenging careers simultaneously.
- DirectorSean DurkinStarsZac EfronJeremy Allen WhiteHarris DickinsonThe true story of the inseparable Von Erich brothers, who made history in the intensely competitive world of professional wrestling in the early 1980s.This film explores the multi-generational Von Erich family curse, a family renowned in Texas for their pro wrestling performances at the Sportatorium. Their achievements in professional wrestling inspired legends, yet they also endure as one of Texas' great family tragedies.
If you're looking for Christian themes in a film like this, you won't have to search for long. Early in the movie, Kevin's character delivers a voiceover explaining that he was told his family was cursed. To protect the Von Erich boys their mother sought to protect them through God, while their father aimed to leverage wrestling as a means to achieve popularity, while somehow believing they would find safety within fame. When given that choice, the Von Erich boys chose wrestling. While this moment is brief early on, it sets up the reality of choosing worldly ways over the narrow path, and their results are the consequences of these choices. The film also revisits that initial advice through reflective images or comments from Doris Von Erich following different tragedies. Kevin's character later suggests in the movie that God may have been trying to intervene to slow Kerry down, so the message remains consistent.
The movie's portrayal of Heavenly family reunions is not Biblically accurate, as many religions teach that individuals who choose suicide do not enter Heaven. This oversight by the writers is a dangerous inaccuracy in pursuit of a utopia-like artistic expression.
The movie effectively explores the aspirations and motivations of professional wrestlers in an easily understandable way. Kevin's character eloquently describes why wrestlers have such disdain for the term "fake" and how pro wrestling hinges on performance along with skill in engaging the audience, which serves as a testament to the film's respectful treatment of the pro wrestling industry for any wrestling fans with concerns. Harley Race, a revered legend in professional wrestling, is also excellently portrayed in the movie along with the Fabulous Freebirds and other wrestling legends.
Aaron Dean Eisenberg's portrayal of Ric Flair was deeply disappointing and far from accurate, nearly jeopardizing the movie's credibility and disrupting suspension of disbelief. Eisenberg's performance was so poor that it completely took me out of the moment, prompting a need to pause and reset.
The movie alternates between depicting "work" and "shoot" elements in its pro wrestling portrayal. The film also depicts the developing romantic relationship between Kevin Von Erich and his wife, Pam.
The movie delivered solid acting, which is not always guaranteed when portraying professional wrestlers. Zac Efron convincingly transformed into a Von Erich.
This movie portrays the thrilling highs and heart-wrenching lows inside the Von Erich family story. For those already acquainted, this film offers a poignant and well-crafted portrayal of the well-known family curse. If you weren't familiar with the Von Erich story, prepare for an emotional journey. - DirectorBen AffleckStarsMatt DamonJason BatemanBen AffleckThe history of the game-changing partnership between a then undiscovered Michael Jordan and Nike's fledgling basketball division which revolutionized the world of sports and culture with the Air Jordan brand.This film beautifully captures the captivating narrative surrounding Michael Jordan's inaugural Air Jordan shoe and the gripping decisions that reshaped American culture. It's a testament to great youthful wisdom, where young Michael Jordan entrusted his mother, Deloris Jordan, who was grounded in Christian values and profound life experience, to navigate pivotal career choices on his behalf - a rare youthful display of trust that underscores the enduring bond between a son and his mother in critical moments which shaped the future of business for athletes.
The performance by Matt Damon as Sonny Vaccaro is standout, anchoring a solid supporting cast that delivers from start to finish. Michael Jordan's strategic portrayal in the film, tactfully interwoven with authentic footage, adds depth and authenticity. Despite occasional embellishments and politically driven dialogues typical of Hollywood, this remains an inspiring cinematic achievement. It's a compelling journey that had me cheering from my living room. A homage to the greatest basketball player of all time, underscored by his youthful humility and the sage guidance of a wise mother.
Exodus 20:12 Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee. - StarsAnnie StarkeMarc AlbuGlenn CloseFor Annie Starke, it's all about great eats and good times as she prepares delicious meals indoors and over the fire at her family's mountain ranch in Montana.A tranquil depiction of mountain cooking experiences, enhanced by exquisite ambiance and meticulous dish presentations.
- StarsLauren FixPeyton ManningJason LiebigIt follows as Peyton Manning counts down the greatest of all-time in a single category, from the greatest General to the greatest inventor.A masterclass in storytelling and expert analysis. Each episode delves into a specific category, such as sports stadiums, cars, or titans of industry, and counts down the top 10 greatest of all time. What sets this show apart is the meticulous research and thoughtful curation of Manning and his team of experts. The show features a diverse panel of experts, comprising historians, innovators, and industry leaders. These experts share their knowledge and perspectives, providing a rich tapestry of information and debate.
As the host, Peyton Manning brings his trademark enthusiasm and curiosity to the table. He expertly guides viewers through each category, adding insight and providing context to the rankings. The show's format is well-paced and engaging, with each episode featuring a clear structure and concise explanations. The visuals are crisp and informative, incorporating archival footage, animations, and interviews to illustrate the points being made.
Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply looking for a thought-provoking program, this show is an excellent choice. - StarsChristina HallJosh HallJames BenderIt centers on Christina's new chapter in life as she expands her design business across the country and puts down roots at a Tennessee farm.Christina establishes her own empire in home renovations, independent of her ex-husband Tarek.
- StarsHeather Rae YoungTarek El MoussaAdam LindholmFollows couple Tarek El Moussa and Heather Rae El Moussa during their personal and professional journey of newlyweds and real estate experts.Tarek and his new wife Heather Rae carry on the work Tarek and Christina began, renovating and flipping houses.
- DirectorJoseph KosinskiStarsTom CruiseJennifer ConnellyMiles TellerThe story involves Maverick confronting his past while training a group of younger Top Gun graduates, including the son of his deceased best friend, for a dangerous mission.An uncommon film where the highly anticipated sequel meets and exceeds expectations. Perfect for enthusiasts of aviation and military themes.
- DirectorMatt ReevesStarsRobert PattinsonZoë KravitzJeffrey WrightWhen a sadistic serial killer begins murdering key political figures in Gotham, The Batman is forced to investigate the city's hidden corruption and question his family's involvement.This movie oozes authenticity. The filming is so impeccably shot that it's easy to lose yourself in the cinematography and feel like you're actually in Gotham rather than your living room. The film is an epic masterpiece that pays homage to one of America's great sources of entertainment: Batman.
- DirectorChristopher OtwellGraham SuorsaStarsJessi CombsKitty O'NeilFilmed over more than seven years beginning in 2013, the film chronicles the extraordinary life of professional racer and TV personality Jessi Combs.This doc recounts the inspiring world record and heartbreaking tragedy of Jessi Combs, a global racing legend known for her top speed achievements.
- StarsKendall LaneMakenna HeldChristopher NylundMakenna Held bought Julia Child's home in France and turned it into a recipe-free cooking school. Now, she and her team welcome students into this iconic kitchen to step out of their comfort zone and tap into their intuition.Makenna Held and friends lead viewers on an adventure through France, exploring local ingredients, traditional recipes, cooking philosophy, and the cultural significance of French cuisine in picturesque settings.
- StarsCourtney HansenJesse SpadeDusty PackAn all-star team of custom car builders transforms vehicles to improve lives of those impacted by tragedies, creating bespoke cars as beacons of hope.The show highlights touching stories of enthusiasts who parted with their dream rides due to financial challenges, family responsibilities, or life circumstances, offering them a chance to reclaim their automotive passion. Courtney's team members, such as Mike Cook, and her adept handling of eccentric moments, further enhance the entertainment value.
- StarsMelissa PetermanJamie AndersonDimithri PereraA modern take on the age-old game of 20 Questions intersperses comedy with common knowledge; host People's Choice Award winner Melissa Peterman.Melissa Peterman transitioned from regular appearances on "25 Words or Less" to becoming the host of this program. It's a great show to enjoy on those quiet nights when nothing else seems to catch your interest.
- DirectorNeil JordanStarsLiam NeesonDiane KrugerJessica LangeIn late 1930s Bay City, a brooding, down on his luck detective is hired to find the ex-lover of a glamorous heiress.As someone enamored with the undeniable class and sophistication of early to mid 1900s America, I eagerly anticipate movies set in this era, particularly those not centered on war. While it's a movie that had potential, the mystery isn't gripping enough to fully engage viewers, and the writer's historically perverted vantagepoint was extremely distracting. It's a passable action film set in the late 1930s, albeit written from a perspective that portrays Americans from that era negatively.
Set in the 1930s against the backdrop of the Hollywood studio system, the film follows Phillip Marlowe, a private investigator tasked with finding Nico Peterson, the former lover of Claire Cavendish, daughter of a renowned Hollywood figure. The movie promises a classic noir experience with its portrayal of cynical detectives, femme fatales, and a labyrinthine plot involving deception and intrigue within Tinseltown. However, despite these familiar elements, "Marlowe" falls far short of era authenticity and coherence.
The dialogue ventured into realms of contemporary progressive themes quite a few times, echoing the preferences of today's Hollywood elite rather than the more traditional, God-fearing public of 1939. Most films contain elements of Hollywood elite propaganda, often identifiable by their portrayal of inverted realities. This form of passive-aggressive suggestive programming undoubtedly shapes societal norms, although discerning viewers can easily recognize and disregard these propaganda attempts. Some subtle and some not so subtle influences are apparent.
The moral compass of the characters in this film, spanning from official roles to shady individuals, lacks the authentic feel of 1939. Their dispositions seem more aligned with modern society rather than the strict expectations of early to mid-1900s America. The sophistication is insufficient, and the dialogue fails to reflect the values of the Americans who established such a remarkably sophisticated and globally esteemed society. In 1939, encountering principled Christians was far more common than the characters depicted in this film. Disciplined Christians were a prevalent reality in American society, which most films, including this one, fail to accurately represent at all. American culture featured a very strong emphasis on community, family, and patriotism. Those virtues are nowhere to be found in this film, whether it's noir or not. They aren't even employed to counterbalance the exaggerated inverted realities presented.
While Liam Neeson maintained a sophisticated demeanor, many other actors and actresses in this film portrayed themselves akin to modern Americans, lacking class and sophistication expected of the era. This movie gets a lot right, particularly with the vintage automobiles, which is always a delightful touch. However, the characters in this film would not have matched the standards of early to mid-1900s America. Many of them appear more like modern slackers compared to the polished behavior that was typical in that era. If these actors had tried to blend into 1939 society with their demeanor, they would likely have been ridiculed into adopting more proper behavior. This discrepancy stands out glaringly in the film. The disposition of most characters is too modern and falls short of the standards of that era.
Characters claiming that everyone in the country is a drunk, and asserting that America has been drunk since its inception, exemplifies one of the many absurd inverted realities in this film. That serves as an example of the near-demonization of Americans from 1939. Characters project attraction to even more uncommon 1939 sins than drinking a few times in this film. The pervasive presence of these inverted realities was distracting and detracted from the detective storyline. The interactions during the investigation were lacking and did not accurately reflect the atmosphere of America in 1939.
Another example is the line where Nico claims he didn't kill a man simply because he looked like him and he prefers people who resemble him. Given that in the 1940 Census, 89.8% of Americans shared his appearance, and Hollywood was similarly homogeneous at 95%, it's improbable this character would often face moral dilemmas based on ethnicity, especially outside of the deep southeast. Furthermore, recent studies suggest that Americans resembling this character often have less defined ethnic identities and are among the most welcoming globally when individuals from diverse cultures integrate into their communities. This trait is rare on a worldwide scale and has historically contributed to many cultures aspiring to immigrate to the United States. One of the many inverted realities presented in this film.
The historical perspective of the writer seems limited to their selective research likely solely aimed at unfairly portraying past Americans. A consistent attempt to demonize past Americans was prevalent. In reality, the majority of Americans were law-abiding citizens in a more peaceful, happy, safe and cohesive society.
Demonizing a much safer and happier America from the 1930s is absurd, considering it ranked among the safest nations globally, even in its largest cities. Today, some of America's biggest cities are among the most dangerous worldwide, marked by high rates of murder and intense pockets of violence and crime in densely populated areas. In the 1930s, America had its much more limited share of bad individuals, whereas modern America is marked by large-scale, dangerous neighborhoods that many avoid driving through for fear of their safety.
The passive-aggressive demonization of 1930's Americans in the dialogue was a transparent attempt to exaggerate uncommon negative behaviors while unfairly stereotyping the broader more safe society. This compromised the writer's credibility and exposed their perverted version of history.
There was a scene depicting Nazi flags on a Hollywood set in 1939. It's interesting to consider the historical context: in 1939, the vast majority of Americans were strongly opposed to entering a war with Germany, driven by the aftermath of World War I, a desire to avoid foreign conflicts, and the belief that Europe's wars did not directly concern the United States. Polls revealed that over 90% of Americans wished to avoid war with Germany. Despite this nationwide sentiment, Hollywood had already begun producing films critical of Germany, such as "Confessions of a Nazi Spy," filmed in 1938 and released in 1939, four months before the attack on Pearl Harbor and America's entry into World War II. This scene in the film serves as a reminder that anti-German sentiments in Hollywood were evident even before the outbreak of the war, whether that reminder was intentional or not. For those curious about the origins of this Hollywood trend, it began before the war and continues to be a prominent feature in their repertoire.
Noir storytelling tends to be more compelling and effective when the demonization of characters or negative traits is focused on specific individuals or a group (perhaps a crime syndicate), rather than painting an entire society with broad strokes of negativity. This approach allows for deeper characterization and a more nuanced exploration of moral ambiguity and conflict within the narrative.
The writing in this film severely limits its appeal. If I were to completely disengage intellectually, it could be enjoyable. However, analyzing the patterns and viewpoint of the writer made it unbearable to watch from a writing perspective. The film still retains enough elements of a loosely executed 1930s style noir to be moderately enjoyable for a casual viewing on a rainy day. - StarsPaul O'LearyHelen ParkerRobin McLellanPaul O'Leary, Helen Parker and their team of skilled artisans make clients' dreams come true by designing and crafting kitchens for properties around England based out of a 16th-century water mill in the heart of the countryside.A captivating reality TV series that chronicles the journey of Paul O’Leary, Helen Parker, and their team of skilled artisans at deVOL Kitchens, crafting exquisite kitchens and furnishings in a 16th-century water mill-turned-workshop nestled in the heart of the English countryside. Throughout the series, viewers are immersed in the passion and joy of creating beautiful spaces that bring people together, making it a must-watch for design enthusiasts and culinary aficionados alike.
- DirectorJon WattsStarsTom HollandZendayaBenedict CumberbatchWith Spider-Man's identity now revealed, Peter asks Doctor Strange for help. When a spell goes wrong, dangerous foes from other worlds start to appear.They successfully reunite all three Spider-Men in this movie without it becoming chaotic. It's an enjoyable film that caters to every Spider-Man fan, whether they prefer the original series, the second series, or the MCU. For many fans, this movie signifies the conclusion of an era in the MCU, serving not only as a fulfilling watch but also as the extra bonus chapter following a remarkable story (Infinity Saga).
- Erin French is the owner of The Lost Kitchen, a historic mill turned restaurant in Freedom, Maine, population 722. Every year, hundreds of visitors from around the world make reservations not by phone or email, but by submitting postcards.The Lost Kitchen, starring the innovative Chef Erin French, mesmerizes with its unique blend of culinary artistry and heartfelt storytelling, making it an enjoyable watch for food enthusiasts worldwide.