kijanamdogo's reviews

Having read and thoroughly enjoyed all of Alexandra Fuller's (Bobo) non-fiction books, this film was inconsistent with the author's presentation of, well, everything. In the book her parents are written as free spirits who live life fully and while surely not traditional, are refreshing opposites of today's over- protective "helicopter" parents.

The film shows the very real lifelong wounds of a child growing up through the dangers of a war zone and is a strong reminder that resonates today. But the book also recognizes the values of living a life that allows experiences to teach us lessons of living with a passion for true freedom of expression.

In the book both views are beautifully interwoven without judgement and thankfully are not presented as what would be a false dichotomy.

This film shows a bleak view of the parents, the life, and only the spirit of wonderful little Bobo. Bobo's spirit comes from her parent's example and the film doesn't even hint at that.

Stumbled on this slow moving mystery (not a thriller) and found much to like.

First, as my headline implies: Naomi Watts. In a role that could've been full of melodramatic acting, she is so controlled which both fits her character's profession and adds to her appeal particularly as she orchestrates her various relationships.

Admittedly I have a real aversion to overacting so her control was appealing.

Also, the deliberate way the story unfolds in the last two episodes complemented the tension that was building with this viewer's frustration regarding her behavior when opportunities to balance things out were offered.

As far as leaving many questions unanswered, I usually like that which leaves room for individual interpretations. (It also encourages a 2nd season but...).

And only one flaw: Stellas don't have twist-off tops. ;)

I'm from the U. S. with two political parties butting heads and a radio/TV news media that wildly distorts the truth while offering opinionated slants on "news". In Borgen we see the advantages of their governmental system- specifically the need to form coalitions and to compromise. Also, the behind the scenes newsroom discussions were actually trying to present a clear picture to the citizens. Combined with a gender reversal domestically and a strong female leader, this is as good as it gets.

Read the review by clsi-19102 and had to chime in. Plot? Nope. Cast acting? Nope. I gave it a 7 solely due to Karina Smulders. From fully in control of situations in an understated subtle manner to lost emotionally, I thought she was spot on. The series only worked when she was on screen. As I said: ViewPoints !