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A Good Girl's Guide to Murder (2024)
Had me on the edge of my seat
I've heard the popularity of the novel, but never read A Good Girl's Guide to Murder. I was pleasantly surprised by the show and it kept me on the edge of my seat. I needed to know more and was not expecting the ending. Episodes 5 and 6 definitely had me hooked. I did not suspect the murder(s). I thought the acting was well done and liked the setting of the small town. Also, the flashbacks. Sometimes it felt excessive (like the one with young Pip at her locker), but I'm glad we saw the other side of that scene at the end. I loved Pip's blended family and her relationship with Ravi. But I will never get over Barney's death.
The Other Zoey (2023)
Worth The Watch
I had a fun time with this one. As a fan of While You Were Sleeping (starring Sandra Bullock and Bill Pullman), when I heard about The Other Zoey, I was like do we need another movie like this?
Apparently, yes we do.
I like the direction this one takes with the amnesia character assuming Zoey (the main character) is his girlfriend and then her being in a "love triangle" of sorts with his cousin. My main complaint is the pacing. I think it's very fast. It could be because I'm not used to a movie only being 90 minutes (when did everything get so long). I wish some of the bigger moments were slowed down a bit more.
But overall, the acting was fairly good and it held my attention. It's nice watching something new compared to something I've seen a ton.
The Boys in the Boat (2023)
Inspiring
I didn't know much about rowing or crew before watching this film, but there was just something about the trailer that hooked me in and I knew I needed to see this movie I'm theaters. Set in Seattle in 1936, we get to see a group of young men at the University of Washington try out for the Junior 8 man crew team. Some hoping to make it as this is their only way to stay in school and have a warm place to sleep.
I love a good underdog story and I thought it was really well done here. There's a lot of really great suspense moments especially during the races. I thought the choices in sound, score and camera angles did a great job at portraying that. (Alexandre Despalt composed the score and he is one of my favorites.) I love learning that the cast actually trained and learned to row. This movie definitely gave me Miracle vibes.
The Artful Dodger (2023)
10/10 No Notes
What a fun ride that was! Whether you're familiar with Charles Dickens Oliver Twist or love a good watch set in a historical time, the Artful Dodger is for you. The cast is stacked. Thomas Brodie Sangster does an amazing job in the lead role as Jack Dawson aka Dodger. The range he has keeps you captivated every episode. Playing opposite David Thewlis' Fagan is such a treat. Thewlis is a fantastic Fagan and his scenes with Dodger can have so much heart and history that it feels like they truly experienced the novel 15 years ago. Maia Mitchell as the governor's daughter, Lady Belle, rounds out this trio and is also a delight. I love how she's a woman in STEM and really shows how revolutionary medicine became at this time. Her chemistry and romance with Sangster is *chefs kiss*. I seriously couldn't get enough of them on screen together.
Highly recommend if you are looking for action, humor, romance and a little Easter eggs to the original. I can't wait to watch again!
The Little Mermaid (2023)
You NEED to become apart of this world!
I had SO MUCH anticipation for this film as it was discussed for so long before having a release date. While I was excited, I was also nervous about seeing one of my beloved childhood films get adapted into a live action. I am happy to say that it exceeded my expectations!
I felt transported back to my childhood and got choked up early watching "Part of Your World" be performed. I felt like I was at Disney and watching this at Disney Springs (I was not btw).
I thought the casting was fantastic. Halle is a true Disney princess and Jonah is a wonderful Eric. I love all the updates they did for their characters but also in their relationship. I feel I could feel his love for her and it was on so much of a deeper level. I also loved the new inclusion of songs. I can't wait to re-watch it!
Wish Dragon (2021)
Familiar, but also new
When I saw this movie's trailer I felt the same way many others have reviewed, this film appears to be a modern day Chinese Aladdin. While there are a lot of similarities between Wish Dragon and Disney's Aladdin, I really felt like this film stood on its own.
I really enjoyed Din and Li Na's backstory. Originally, I saw it on TikTok and that's what made me want to watch the movie in full. I like their friendship and how that can change as people grow up. I thought the twist was really good and also liked the ending. The animation was pleasing to watch and I would definitely watch this again. Lots of laughs and heart.
Tom Jones (2023)
Feels Different From the PBS Masterpiece Form
If you are a fan of Masterpiece Classic series just be warned that this one pushes the envelope of what we're familiar with and feels comparable to other historical dramas (?) romances (?) on other platforms. I wanted something warm and fuzzy and I feel that's how this show was marketed, but isn't making me feel this way.
Episode 3 made me write this review (and you can find a similar one in that episode review). It's my least favorite episode of the series so far. Going into watching this show I did not know the source material and have been learning about it while watching this series. I feel the tone of the book and the tone of the show are two different things, which I understand happens when adapting a novel. However, the show has two different tones going on. A comedic, rompy one with Tom's storyline and a tragic, and dramatic love story with Sophia (So-phi-a). I really felt that in the third episode it made it difficult for me to understand Tom's lackadaisical actions and I felt like I fast forwarded in time from the last episode and yet there was no indication that was the case.
I do like what they're exploring with Sophia's story and race. I just wish that tone was carried through to Tom's plot so it didn't feel so unbalanced.
Tom Jones: Episode #1.3 (2023)
My Least Favorite Episode
This was definitely my least favorite episode of the series so far. Going into watching this show I did not know the source material and have been learning about it while watching this series. I feel the tone of the book and the tone of the show are two different things, which I understand happens when adapting a novel. However, the show has two different tones going on. A comedic, rompy one with Tom's storyline and a tragic, and dramatic love story with Sophia (So-phi-a). I really felt that in this episode and that made it difficult for me to understand Tom's lackadaisical actions made me feel like I fast forwarded in time from the last episode and yet there was no indication that was the case.
If you are a fan of Masterpiece Classic series just be warned that this one pushes the envelope of what we're familiar with and feels comparable to other historical dramas (?) romances (?) on other platforms. I wanted something warm and fuzzy and I feel that's how this show was marketed, but isn't making me feel this way.
Jury Duty (2023)
Add It To Your List
This was such an interesting concept and a fun time. I feel like some of the episodes in the middle dragged a bit and the show might have benefited from being shorter, but the last two episodes made up for it.
My favorite was seeing all the behind the scenes stuff and for Ronald to have a "Truman Show" moment. I feel it would be cool to see another season, but I'm not sure if they could do it.
If you're looking for something light and quick I recommend it. The ads on Freevee were not bad at all and it will make me look into more programs they have on there.
When I called in for Jury Duty I will definitely think of this show!
Daisy Jones & the Six (2023)
Worth the Hype!
I started this show before reading the book, which is something I rarely do. I had heard from people that the show differed a bit from the book and that watching it first might be a good idea. Now I can't wait to read the book.
I really enjoyed all the music and felt the songs played enough that I got to know them. They are very talented singers and I think it would be cool to see them go out on a real tour (or at least a concert). I'm a big fan of fictional bands and making the band films/shows and this is one that I can add to the list.
I definitely feel the 70s are making a come back and I'm excited to see what comes next. I definitely recommend watching this if you're a fan of any of the above.
Peter Pan & Wendy (2023)
Hard not to compare to the 2003 film
When you're producing an adaptation of something that's been done many times before it's bound to get compared to the previous works. (And the 2003 film is difficult to top. I want to go watch it right now.) This film tries to bring something new to the classic and while I LOVED all of the female empowerment, the overall plot felt like not much happened. (The movie is about 2 hours long.)
I liked how Wendy felt like the main character and had a lot more agency. I also like how they transformed Tiger Lily's character a lot. I felt like we weren't in Neverland for very long and that Peter had the ability to go down the villain route which would have been really interesting and different to see. I do like his backstory with Hook here. It's what I predicted. Lastly, with how much Mrs. Darling was familiar with Peter, I think this had the potential to be Wendy's daughter Jane's story rather than hers...again.
All Creatures Great & Small (2020)
The Feel Good Watch You've Been Needing
This is the cozy, warm show you are looking for. I instantly get transported to the English Dales every time I sit down to watch this show. It just makes me feel so good afterwards and I can't stop recommending it to everyone. The day it gets canceled I will be so depressed. The episodes aren't long enough and the show seems to go by in the blink of an eye.
In season 3 WWII is looming and while the show's vibes starts to shift, I'm still hooked. So interested to see where it's headed for season 4. Im nervous for these beloved characters, but also need to know what will happen to them. I feel it'll be similar to season 2 of Downton Abbey.
Magpie Murders (2022)
Eh...
This just didn't hit the mark for me like I thought it would. Murder mystery set in the publishing world sounds right up my alley, but the dead author was VERY unlikable and I didn't love the flipping back and forth between reality and the fictional world. I also didn't like when Susan spoke with Mr. Pund. The end felt weird for me. Some of the mystery felt forced and I wish the clues made more sense. As someone who has watched Vienna Blood, I also found it very strange that the actors who play father and son on that show were now lovers on Magpie Murders (or at least exes). I just couldn't get around that. Lots of hype and a let down for me.
Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)
WOW WOW WOW!
Now that's how you do a Spider-Man movie!
I have been trying to put my thoughts on the page for days, and still find it difficult because there's SO MUCH TO PROCESS! It's basically a love letter to all the Spider-Man fans who have been there since the beginning. Even before the big reveals of Tobey and Andrew returning to the screen, it felt like a classic Spider-Man film with the villains and overall plot. (It's hard to describe.) I laughed and cried. Cannot wait to see what's ahead for Tom Holland's Spider-Man after that ending!
Hawkeye (2021)
Here's to Hawkeye
Clint Barton gets the most screen time we've seen in the MCU in this Disney Plus series. I didn't really know what to expect going in and I thoroughly enjoyed each week. The episodes went far too fast. Kate Bishop is a welcome addition to the MCU and I'm excited to see where her journey is headed. I loved the back drop of NYC and Christmas. There were also some great Easter eggs. Highly recommend!
Locke & Key: The Maze (2021)
The suspense!
This episode had me on the edge of my seat the whole time. I'm glad several people know so many of the secrets (as we do) and I'm interested to see how it continues to play out. The ending scene was fantastic!
Encanto (2021)
We Don't Talk About Bruno-
Your welcome, that song will probably be in your head for the rest of the day now.
I loved this movie! Saw it in theaters, and then watched it immediately as it came to Disney Plus. I think I liked it even more the second time. Originally, the resolution felt too fast for me, but on a second go round it felt more well paced. Love the idea of having something without powers being strong in a world with them. Fantastic songs. Highly recommend. I know I'll be watching again.
Vienna Blood (2019)
Getting a Second Season!!
Just caught this on Amazon Prime Video before it went off, and I'm so happy I got to watch all 6 episodes before the new year. While based on the novels by Frank Tallis and developed for the screen by one of the writers of Sherlock, it has all the classic tropey 'buddy cop' elements while set in the early 1900s, Vienna. Oskar is the traditional detective, while Max is a psychologist who has studied under Freud and has a new approach in his studies that his superiors don't approve of. The two of them are a dynamic duo and I have enjoyed watching their relationship grow over a short amount of episodes. (Seriously, there aren't enough.) I like the additional themes regarding religious tolerance, the loss of a child, and of course romance (that is quite the range). I think this is a show more people should be talking about. I'm very happy that the second season will premiere here in the US on January 9th on PBS.
Love and Monsters (2020)
Stiles is back
Movie started out slow and felt like a lot of other teen post-apocalyptic movies/TV shows I've seen, but as O-Brien's character makes his journey above ground and finds other travelers, it picked up. Overall, I liked it and would watch it again if it was on TV.
The Suicide Squad (2021)
Ratcatcher 2 Steals the Show
Like many people, DC films are typically not my go to for superhero movies. As The Suicide Squad was available for free on HBO Max I thought why not. Plus, I had watched the first one years ago, and thought it was interesting that this film was both pitched as a sequel and reboot. It definitely felt very Tim Gunn like and was an edgier "superhero" film (as it's rated R). Will I be watching it again in the future, eh?
Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021)
You will fall in love with Simu Liu
Every time I hear the Marvel opening in theaters, I get chills and I am SO HAPPY that I saw this film in theaters. Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, kicks off a new wave of the MCU and I am so excited for the journey that lies ahead. Great characters, narrative, score, and action overall. Totally worth the watch! (Make sure to stay for all the mid/after credit scenes!)
Nancy Drew (2019)
The Best TV show
I freaking love this show SO MUCH and it keeps getting better and better with every episode. The Drew Crew is amazing and has both great representation and a likable cast. There is not one person I don't like and I love how they can mix and match who solves cases together and it still works. The supernatural elements took some time to adjust to, but when I recently rewatched the show I didn't feel the same way. I want more people to watch this.
The Nevers: Pilot (2021)
Welcome to the touched
This was an amazing pilot. It instantly got me sucked into the universe and I couldn't wait till episode 2. It has the feeling of an HBO show with the ensemble cast mixed with a period piece. I love the fantasy elements and the mystery of why these characters have powers.
Shadow and Bone (2021)
Welcome to the Grisha-verse
I really enjoyed this show! I had no background on the world of the novels before starting it and that was not a problem at all. (Now I can't wait to read them.) It's the fastest Netflix watch I've ever done (and the fastest to when it's come out). I enjoyed the characters and overall plot. Can't wait to watch it again.
Pride and Prejudice: A New Musical (2020)
"I love her eyes"
As a HUGE Jane Austen fan, this musical had been on my watch list for a long time. While I knew the story, I didn't really know what to expect about this adaptation tuning in. It felt a little cringey in the beginning, but once I got into the rhythm of it, I didn't mind those awkward moments. I think it really picked up when Mr. Collins entered the stage. (Why wouldn't it though, right?) At times certain songs went on a little long for me, so I was grateful for the opportunity to fast forward. However, certain songs stayed in my head long after I was listening. The musical does a great job of including original lines from the book. I also like how Lizzie becomes the narrator and takes on an Austen quality too.