seemingly_reel

I found this series quite inspiring. Hemsworth is perfectly cast. He's kind-hearted, blessed with quiet confidence, and genuinely motivated to reach goals which will offer new skills and increased liberation. He happens to be in superb physical form, and the camera loves him. In contrast to his superhero body, Hemsworth readily admits his need to grow in certain areas, and his humility shines. Throughout the program, there's an emphasis on how each of us can be positively impacted when we undertake challenging tasks. Each episode features the arduous training Chris undergoes before embarking on the ultimate task. The expert trainers who challenge Chris are all quite apt, and I really appreciated BJ Miller, in the episode on pain. I was emotionally engaged (even frightened) with the "Risk" episode. All in all, I highly recommend this series.

This short black and white film "Children" offers several narrative surprises, and the entire cast is quite apt. One overriding theme is what might result when a person is bullied, ignored, or dismissed. The pace is a bit slow at times, but did not deter me. Several solemn scenes offer riveting dreamlike sensations, and the grain of the film really shines. I especially appreciate the two actors who portrayed the central character: young Robert is played by Phillip Mawdsley, and Robin Hooper offers a pensive study of twenty-something Robert. I'm fairly new in watching this director's films, and I plan to see the other 2 films in this trilogy.

Excellent ensemble, and the series allows some breathing room for co-stars and minor players. Wonderful cinematography and a good choice of music throughout. The pace is good, but not great. This season could have been expressed in 8 episodes, rather than 10. Having said that, I did appreciate the surprise elements in the final scenes of Ep 10.

About Maggie Q: is she the best actor for a complex detective who steers a team working on cold cases in Los Angeles? She does well, but her vocal delivery falls flat in a number of scenes. Her face is expressive, but her voice is nearly monotone at times with an ever-ready snark filter. Clearly beautiful, the camera loves her. I appreciated her ocean scenes, and she actually knows how to surf so it adds to the genuine vibe. Around episode 5, her persona becomes looser and she smiles more, but these changes didn't feel organic.

Glad they included Bosch in a few scenes... his cynicism and empathy elevated the quality of this series. Is it possible that Ballard and Bosch might eventually get together romantically? You never know.

Regarding other actors, Rebecca Field and Courtney Taylor can hold their own. I think that Field might be effective in her own dramedy series. I also liked Michael Mosley's delivery. Michole Briana White offers a gripping portrayal of a traumatized person.

I recommend this series, but not without some reservations. Ballard has narrative threads with Bosch, but it's not really fair to compare them. Having said that, I'd like to see Harry reappear in Season 2.