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Reviews
Beauty in Black (2024)
Wow Tyler Perry listened and actually delivered!
Tyler Perry's new Netflix show Beauty in Black marks an exciting shift in his storytelling approach, one that reaffirms his talent for drama while distancing him from the shortcomings of past projects like Mea Culpa. Known for his body of work that often veers between comedy and drama, Perry has received a mixed critical reception over the years. While his comedic creations-especially in the Madea franchise-have a loyal fan base, I argue that Perry's writing shines brightest in dramas, where he tackles complex social issues, family dynamics, and darker themes. Beauty in Black exemplifies this strength, blending drama, romance, intrigue, and opulence into a compelling narrative that keeps audiences invested.
In comparison to Mea Culpa, which struggled with pacing and narrative depth, Beauty in Black benefits from Perry's commitment to detail and character development. Mea Culpa attempted to portray intense personal drama and moral reckoning but fell flat due to underdeveloped characters and a lackluster script that felt rushed. Many fans and critics felt that Perry's desire to deliver emotional depth in Mea Culpa was overshadowed by clichéd dialogue and plot holes that left viewers frustrated rather than captivated. Divorce in the Black which aired later was slightly better than Mea Culpa in my opinion, although not his best work. This backlash may have impacted Perry's approach moving forward, pushing him to refine his storytelling style and perhaps take his time with Beauty in Black.
Set against the backdrop of luxury, wealth, and high-stakes drama, Beauty in Black introduces audiences to a cast of affluent characters whose lives are tangled in secrets, deceit, and passion. The show dives into the themes of desire and betrayal within a world where reputation and image mean everything. Perry has taken the time to explore each character's motivations, making the drama feel more layered and realistic. Unlike his earlier works, which sometimes suffered from surface-level storytelling, Beauty in Black delves into the psychology of each character, revealing flaws, insecurities, and hidden agendas that resonate with the audience. The show's emphasis on power struggles and moral ambiguity elevates it above a standard drama, creating an intricate web of relationships that keeps viewers guessing.
A key aspect of Beauty in Black is its unapologetic exploration of sexuality and the tensions that arise from romantic entanglements among the elite and sometimes not so elite. Perry leans into the show's adult themes, portraying love, lust, and rivalry in ways that add intensity to the story. The sexual dynamics between characters aren't merely sensational but serve to expose their vulnerabilities and ambitions. In Beauty in Black, these elements are central, and they contribute significantly to the show's appeal. The cast delivers in this series, it was refreshing to see some new faces with strong acting skills.
One of the strongest elements of Beauty in Black is its unpredictability. Perry has incorporated numerous twists and turns into the plot, keeping the audience engaged and continuously questioning characters' motives. Just when viewers think they have a handle on the storyline, new secrets come to light, altering the direction and forcing characters to confront their own weaknesses.
As fans eagerly await the next season, Beauty in Black serves as a testament to Tyler Perry's ability to give us great dramas like his past movies Temptation, Acrimony, Fall from Grace, Why did I get married, to name a few. It's safe to say audiences are ready for more, and if Perry continues on this trajectory, Beauty in Black could become a defining show in his dramatic portfolio.
Deon Cole: Ok, Mister (2024)
Definitely funny..but we've heard this.
I've watched all of Deon Cole's stand-up specials on Netflix and love his comedy. However, this new one fell a little flat for me. There was way too much talk about him having sex with women. We get it Deon, heard it before. The repetitive vintage woman sex jokes after a while makes him seem personally insecure about his own stamina and age. Definitely made me go, hmmm? While he's undeniably a funny guy, his material in this special felt limited and stale. I hope that in the future, he branches out with more fresh and diverse content, because he has the talent to do so. All in all it might be worth the watch especially if you are new to watching his stand-ups!
Easter Sunday (2022)
Not what I was expecting!
Wanted so bad for this movie to be great. I typically love Comedies about Family. This was so bad! I was surprised, I expected more. There were a couple of small chuckles..no real belly laughs. The movie is more about Jo Koy's character than the Family. I also thought they would have more Lou Diamond Phillips in it. However,he had a small part. Tiffany Hadish has a small part in it and she was pretty funny..but could have been in it longer. It was great to see Tia Carrere, she did well with the few lines that she had. All in all a total miss. Which is ashamed because I have always like Jo Koy and thought he would bring it. Maybe next time, because he is talented.
Immaculate (2024)
I wanted to like this movie.It was just ok.
This movie had potential, it fell short by not explaining enough background about the character, as well not enough details supporting the plot of the story. I wanted to like this movie. Sydney Sweeney did a fantastic job! Her performance is worthy of some sort of recognition or award! This was a different role for her from her typical roles and it worked. I felt the supporting Actors around her were not as strong. The movie offers lots of gratuitous violence. There are some beautiful scenes of the Church in this picture. The movie is somewhat dark. I had to adjust my TV.
If you are going to watch this movie consider that you may have questions afterwards.
Mea Culpa (2024)
Just bad!!
This was hands down the worst TP drama that he has written and produced! Sooooo many holes that I felt embarrassed for everyone involved! I usually love TP dramas..they are my favorite genre from him..but this one was so incredibly bad! I was shocked that Kelly Roland was the lead. She is great in the Lifetime Christmas roles ..but this role was a total miss. The main lead (the artist role) mumbled most of the movie. The story line was reminiscent of a bad soap opera. TP you have got to do better. I was once a fan..but sadly feel like you are rushing to put out anything because you are TP. With all do respect hire better writers!
Fool Me Once (2024)
Amazing series!
I really enjoyed this one! So many twists and turns! The lead actress was outstanding and the rest of the actors were great! I normally turn off shows after a couple of episodes that don't pull me, this one kept me on the edge of my seat! Overall the pace was good, it had a couple of slow moments, but always delivered. The 8 episodes are just enough, without dragging on and on. The location where this series was filmed sets the mood for the show. It was great to see the lead actress playing former military.
I look forward to seeing more shows from the writer.
This series is definitely worth the watch. My favorite so far from Harlan Coben!
Siren (2018)
This show is underated!!
I enjoyed every bit of this show. The actress that plays Ryn is so convincing as a Mermaid. What a perfect casting! The other actors are great too. The storyline is a nice one that keeps you invested. I hate they cancelled this show, it deserved a couple of additional seasons!
The town where this show was filmed was a great place to set the story in. I'm typically not into these types of shows. After watching the first couple of episodes I was in! Hopefully they will consider bringing this show back. I can't remember the actresses name that plays Ryn, but I am so surprised she isn't playing more roles because she is amazing! Bring this show back!
Marlon Wayans: God Loves Me (2023)
You wish you got slapped!!?
Marlon was quick to come up with the most basic material around the infamous slap of Will Smith and Chris Rock. Seems desperate to go on and on for so long with something that had NOTHING to do with him! This should have been a 5 minute joke. He stretched this joke for what seemed like half of the time he was on stage! I am a fan of Marlon's movies and the reruns of the Wayans Brothers show!! However, he is NOT a good standup! I can't recommend this standup special! I will go see his next movie though!
Marlon was quick to come up with the most basic material around the infamous slap of Will Smith and Chris Rock. Seems desperate to go on and on for so long with something that had NOTHING to do with him. This should have been a 5 minute joke. He stretched this joke for what seemed like half of the time he was on stage! I am a fan of Marlon's movies and the reruns of the Wayans Brothers show!! However, he is NOT a good standup! I can't recommend this standup special!
I will go see his next movie though!
Smile (2022)
Boring and Overrated!!
Made no sense! A Professional Phycologist is questioned after seeing a patient who clearly has lost her mind due to a seemingly curse resulting in the "smile" and passes it on to her. As a result the Phycologists life spirals out of control in a mere few days and everyone around her questions her sanity. Which seems unlikely especially since this started with the patient of hers and she immediately explained the bizarre behavior of the patient to her counterparts and Family. The whole story is lazy and overrated! I was open-minded with this one and waited to watch it. So dissatisfied and misleading!!
The Batman (2022)
Too long and Mundane.
As a fan of this Franchise I was convinced this movie was one of the best in the collection. The first 20 minutes of the movie starts off exciting, dark and edgy. Then it falls flat and stays that way for over 2 hours. There was so much potential here. The story line was too long and didn't keep me interested. The casting wasn't the best. I really enjoy Robert Pattinson's work..but he wasn't convincing as The Batman. Zoe Kravitz looked like a small child playing Catwomen. Collin Farrell did an exceptional job as the Penguin. Jeffery Wright was an excellent Commissioner Gordon. And John Turturro was also fantastic. Although a great Actor Paul Dano did not deliver as the Riddler. The only reason I am giving this movie a 5 is because it was Cinematically shot well.
Human Resources (2022)
Hilarious! Warning: Vulger!
This show is so cleverly written!!
I laughed so hard! Amazing voiceover work!
Lots of well known Actors doing VO (Would have loved to see some new Talent in the mix).
Maya Rudolph, Pamela Aldon,Rosie Perez, KeKe Palmer, Aidy Bryant,Helen Merrin, Nick Kroll and so many more well known Actors are doing the VO. They really work very well together!
I guess it pays off because everyone has great comedic energy. The writing is superb. Again this show is not for those who are not open minded to vulger language. This show delivers and offers a funny storyline!
The Righteous Gemstones (2019)
Worth the watch..stick with it!
My Go too show for entertainment! Well written and so hilarious!! I liked it from the beginning..but a few episodes in and I was hooked! I hope they keep this one going for many Seasons. Its different from other shows and I love all of the characters. Especially Baby Billy! Danny McBride and the Actors who portray his Siblings are hilarious and have good chemistry together!
Don't Look Up (2021)
This movie has you thinking!
This Movie was cleverly written (I wont give away any spoilers) and shows how impactful Social Media is and how easy it is to divide us based on our Political and Social views. Leonardo was exceptional as usual and Jennifer Lawrence did very well. I don't think this was Meryl Streeps best role..but she did fine considering. Although the movie is a Comedy...It felt more like a Dramedy at times. Definitely worth the 2 hours.
Mariah's Christmas: The Magic Continues (2021)
Shame on Mariah! No Magic here!
Mariah is delusional if she thinks her audience doesn't see the blatant attempt to do 2 songs and a lame interview and calls this a Christmas Special. This is clearly a contractual obligation that is embarrassing for her in everyway. No longer interested in an Artist who is no longer interested in performing for the love of Music and not just for $$.
Being the Ricardos (2021)
Skipped sooo much!
I thought this should have been more of a mini series than a Movie. They crammed so much into 2 hours. Skipping so many pivotal moments in The Ricardo's life. It felt forced. However, Nicole Kidman and Jarvier Bardem did a fantastic job. The writing fell flat on this one!