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Barry: bestest place on the earth (2023)
Stellar introduction to Season 4
I'd second the comment that it was a good idea to drop episode 1 and 2 together. Both are "set up" episodes in a sense that establish the groundwork and plot threads that will evolve in subsequent episodes. However, despite being "set up" episodes, both do a good job of eschewing typical season intros which prioritize exposition over being strong narratively.
I'd say episode 2 fits this to a tee. The cinematography, directing, and blocking are phenomenal. There are a variety of incredibly well composed shots and sequences, that while brief, are intelligently constructed. The flashbacks fit this mold, and are reminiscent of the dreamlike surrealism of earlier episodes like "candy asses" and "ronny/Lilly". It'd be no exaggeration to say that Hader is one of the best directors working in TV.
I'd also single out the scene between Barry and Sally. Both are impressive actors, and deliver such an emotionally raw and well written scene in a span of just a few minutes. Goldberg performs the character of Sally impeccably. She's narcissistic, but you empathize with her and are able to gain insight into her complicated upbringing due to her emotionally abusive mother and well meaning, but distant father. Barry has done horrible things, but Sally has complicated feelings towards it all, and attempts to address it by meeting Barry.
I also enjoyed the Gene scenes here. There's of course a level of humor to them, but also tragedy there. Despite seeming to have some personal growth by the end of season 3 via reconciling with his history and harm to others in the industry, he can't help but capitalize on his newfound fame.
I've noticed that Succession (another phenomenal HBO show) and Barry both address the cyclical nature of the self and human nature. Gene can't help but to stoop down to pathetic levels in trying to mythologize his story with Barry after gaining some fame and public goodwill. Barry has struggled with season 2 with this internal conflict. He is able to be introspective about his past actions, and wants to be a "good person", but he struggles to change and sinks back into old patterns.
I really enjoyed these first two episodes and can't wait to see more.
Ted Lasso: Beard After Hours (2021)
Great homage to Scorcese's "After Hours."
As evidenced by the title, this episode served as an homage to Martin Scorcese's 1985 film "After Hours", and it pulled it off in great fashion. It was a change of pace, but a warranted one after the events taking place after the devastating loss of the Semifinal. It gave us insight into Beard's insecurities and anxieties, and was packed with interesting symbolism that fans will be talking about for a while. This episode also had uncharacteristically great editing and cinematography. I'm glad Season 2 upped the amount of episodes to 12 so they could make episodes like this. It certainly won't be for everyone, but I thought it was fantastic and I'm sure many others will think the same.
This season is getting better and better and I can't wait to see what's in store in the last three episodes.
Inside (2016)
A Magical Experience
Despite the many rave reviews for this title I went in not expecting much. However, this game impressed me in many ways. In terms of technical aspects alone, the art design and animations of this game are incredible and immerse you for Inside's short but sweet 3-4 hour completion time. Some have criticized Inside for having shallow gameplay. This is partially true, but for me the consistently fantastic environmental storytelling, atmosphere, and presentation kept me interested and in awe until the end of the game. The story of Inside is also not explained to the player; you will have to figure it out mostly on your own. That said, the story of this game is very satisfying to discover and I did not find it boring. The lack of much information given in regards to the world has inspired many theories, some of which are very compelling. If this seems like your type of game, I would encourage you to play it.
Barry: berkman > block (2019)
Great Finale, and Great Season
Wow! What a way to end this season! This episode was packed with symbolism, great comedy, great drama, and absolutely fantastic lighting and cinematography. The end of this episode with Barry killing the Bolivian and Chechen criminals and Gene finding out Barry killed Janice set up what I think will be another great season of this show.