gordon_ska's reviews

I bailed halfway through episode two. For an action spin-off, Dark Wolf moves at a crawl, with long, melodramatic beats that smother momentum. Taylor Kitsch does solid work, and the firefights look sharp, but the show never quite gels: the plotting feels murky, the stakes oddly abstract, and the "bro-code" posturing keeps replacing character depth. I kept waiting for a gear change that never arrived.

Having seen other reactions later, I can see why some viewers stick with it-critics note the action ramps up and fans say it's more entertaining than The Terminal List in places-but the early pacing and tone lost me. If you're here for tight, propulsive storytelling, this may test your patience.

Blitz promises a gripping wartime drama, but instead delivers a surprisingly meandering and unfocused film. Marketed as a story about Londoners during the WWII bombings, it barely touches on the Blitz itself. Instead, it drifts through a series of underdeveloped subplots that lack emotional impact or narrative cohesion.

The film's strengths lie in its visuals-London is beautifully captured, and the production design is first-rate. Saoirse Ronan gives a committed performance, and McQueen's signature style is evident. Yet none of this can salvage a script that feels clunky, episodic, and frustratingly superficial.

Themes of race, class, and resilience are introduced, but never properly explored. Characters appear and disappear without clear purpose, and the central storyline-a boy's journey home and his mother's search for him-lacks the urgency or depth to hold the film together.

Ultimately, Blitz is a film that looks impressive but feels hollow. It's hard to believe such a weak script passed through so many hands without serious revision. With so much potential and talent involved, this should have been far more powerful.

Having watched all seven episodes of Hijack-despite mounting frustration- I'm left wondering how a series with such a gripping premise and a lead like Idris Elba could miss the runway so completely. The show is pitched as a real-time thriller aboard a hijacked flight, but what unfolds is a painfully contrived and implausible mess that strains belief at every turn.

The script is riddled with gaps, lazy exposition, and dialogue that feels both unnatural and uninspired. Characters behave in ways that defy logic-not just in moments of crisis, but throughout the entire plot. The hijackers themselves are utterly unconvincing: from an elderly man with zero menace, to a soft-spoken woman who'd be more at home in a nursery than holding hostages at gunpoint. The supposed ringleader has all the gravitas of an ice cream van driver-hardly the stuff of terror.

Off the plane, things fare no better. The scenes involving law enforcement and government officials descend into parody, with clunky, repetitive exchanges that offer no dramatic weight or realism. Each episode throws in increasingly far-fetched twists as if the writers were frantically raiding a bargain bin of thriller clichés-resulting in a plot that nosedives into nonsense.

The show's desperate attempts at suspense are undercut by its own incoherence, and while Elba does his best to anchor the chaos, even he can't save this ill-conceived flight path. The finale's resolution, involving stock manipulation and a last-minute cockpit scramble, felt more like a parody of action TV than a satisfying conclusion.

Hijack is not a taut thriller-it's an exhausting exercise in suspension of disbelief. We stayed the course only to find there was no real payoff. A wasted opportunity.

"Baby Girl" disappoints despite its star power. Nicole Kidman's and Antonio Banderas' performances stand out, but they can't save a film with a disjointed storyline and weak execution. The plot feels overly complicated, and its attempts at depth fall flat, leaving viewers bored and detached.

Marketed as an erotic thriller, the movie actually lacks real excitement and ends on a disappointing note. Even with top-tier actors enlisted, "Baby Girl" feels like a missed opportunity, making us question why such big names signed on. Its lackluster development, its awkwardness and limp plot left me unimpressed.

It Ends with Us attempts to adapt Colleen Hoover's best-selling novel into a romantic drama but falls far short of meaningful storytelling. The film is marred by a saccharine tone that undermines its heavier themes. What should have been an emotionally charged narrative on trauma and personal growth is instead coated in a superficial gloss that renders it sickly sweet and devoid of depth. Despite its claims to explore serious topics, the predictable storyline and shallow character arcs feel more like a machine-generated script than a human-crafted tale.

One of the film's glaring issues is its sheer predictability. From start to finish, every twist and turn feels telegraphed, leaving no room for genuine surprises or emotional engagement. The characters, particularly the male lead, lack authenticity, resembling AI-generated models more than real people. Their polished, cookie-cutter appearances and cliched dialogue make it difficult to invest in their struggles or triumphs.

Even visually, the film adheres to an overly glossy aesthetic that feels more like an advertisement than a heartfelt drama. The performances, while competent, cannot overcome the hollowness of the material they're given. The result is a film that feels calculated rather than inspired.

While It Ends with Us found financial success in the U. S. box office, this speaks more to audience trends than the film's quality. Ultimately, it's a shallow, uninspired adaptation.

The 2024 adaptation of The Count of Monte Cristo is a masterful retelling of Alexandre Dumas's classic novel. The production quality is outstanding, with lavish sets and stunning cinematography that bring the story's grandeur to life. The attention to detail captures the historical and emotional depth of the narrative.

The performances are compelling, particularly Pierre Niney as Edmond Dantès, whose transformation from an innocent sailor to the vengeful Count is both gripping and nuanced. The supporting cast adds layers of intrigue, making every character memorable and impactful.

This adaptation stays true to the novel's core themes of betrayal, revenge, and redemption, offering a deeply engaging experience. With its exceptional storytelling and faithful execution, it stands as one of the best cinematic renditions of this timeless tale. A must-watch!

The latest season of Strike, The Ink Black Heart, falls short of the standard set by its predecessors. Overloaded with an excessive number of characters and plotlines, the narrative becomes unnecessarily convoluted, making it hard for viewers to stay engaged. What once was a hallmark of the series-gripping, well-paced storytelling-is replaced by an exhausting web of names and relationships that detract from the central mystery.

This season's pacing further compounds the issue. Key moments feel rushed, while others drag on, leaving Strike and Robin overshadowed by the overwhelming complexity. Instead of building suspense, the dense plot creates frustration, losing the balance between character development and mystery that made earlier seasons so compelling.

While the performances of Tom Burke and Holliday Grainger remain strong, The Ink Black Heart struggles to deliver a cohesive and engaging experience. Fans of the series may find themselves yearning for the clarity and intrigue of earlier seasons, where simplicity and depth worked hand in hand to deliver satisfying mysteries.

The latest installment of the BBC's Strike series, The Ink Black Heart, falls short compared to its predecessors, primarily due to its overwhelming complexity and overcrowded cast of characters. While the previous seasons thrived on their intricate but well-paced storytelling, this season pushes too many new names and faces into the mix, making it difficult to keep track of the plot. Instead of building a suspenseful narrative, it creates a sense of frustration for viewers.

From the very first episode, the story feels unnecessarily convoluted. The sheer number of characters introduced and their interconnected relationships are hard to follow, leaving little time to develop each one meaningfully. The rapid escalation of the plot's complexity detracts from its core mystery, making it feel more like a chore to watch than an engaging experience. What was once a strength of the series-the balance between character development and a compelling mystery-gets lost in the chaos.

The pacing also suffers as a result of the overloaded narrative. Unlike earlier seasons, where the story unfolded with a gripping balance of tension and revelation, The Ink Black Heart seems to rush through crucial moments while dragging in others. This uneven rhythm makes it difficult to invest in the mystery or the returning characters, Strike and Robin, who seem sidelined amidst the overwhelming plot.

While the show's production values and lead performances remain strong, this season ultimately stumbles in delivering what fans of the series expect: a tightly woven, satisfying mystery. Sadly, The Ink Black Heart leaves viewers yearning for the clarity and brilliance of earlier seasons.

"Heretic" goes beyond traditional horror, exploring faith, belief, and the human need for answers. The story follows two Mormon missionaries, played by Sophie Thatcher and Chloe East, who encounter the mysterious Mr. Reed (Hugh Grant). Their interactions delve into the similarities and tensions between religions, the reasons behind belief and disbelief, and the nature of faith. This intellectual focus gives the film a unique edge, making it both unsettling and reflective.

The film's visual style effectively builds tension, with simple settings and thoughtful cinematography. Directors Scott Beck and Bryan Woods balance suspense with engaging dialogue, creating a story that is as thought-provoking as it is gripping. The production is polished, enhancing the immersive experience without overshadowing the narrative.

The performances elevate the film. Hugh Grant is convincing in a dark, layered role, while Thatcher and East bring realism to their characters' struggles. "Heretic" offers more than scares, inviting viewers to reflect on belief and doubt, making it a compelling watch for fans of psychological thrillers.

"Black Doves" started with promise, featuring a strong cast and a moody, atmospheric tone that initially drew us in. However, by the second episode, the plot began to falter. Many scenes felt like unnecessary filler, failing to add substance or depth to the story. Despite our growing disappointment, we decided to give it another chance, hoping it would improve.

Unfortunately, after watching the third episode, we concluded that the series was not for us. It felt like we were constantly waiting for a breakthrough moment, but it never came. The narrative lacked cohesion and failed to deliver the tension and intrigue expected from a spy thriller.

While the performances were solid, they couldn't compensate for a storyline that seemed to lose its way. "Black Doves" might appeal to viewers looking for style over substance, but for us, it ultimately lacked the depth and engagement to keep us invested. We decided not to continue watching.

Few films resonate as deeply as In the Name of the Father (1993), a masterfully crafted drama that tells the harrowing true story of the Guildford Four. Directed by Jim Sheridan, this film is a powerful exploration of systemic injustice, political corruption, and the unbreakable bonds of family. Anchored by unforgettable performances, it remains just as compelling and relevant today as it was upon release.

Daniel Day-Lewis delivers one of his most extraordinary performances as Gerry Conlon, a young man wrongfully accused of terrorism. Emma Thompson shines as the tenacious lawyer fighting for truth, while Pete Postlethwaite gives a heartbreaking portrayal of Giuseppe Conlon, Gerry's father, whose suffering amplifies the tragedy. The chemistry among the cast elevates the story to profound emotional heights.

The film's pacing and Sheridan's direction keep the tension unrelenting, while its poignant soundtrack enhances every emotional beat. The production values are stellar, capturing both the grimness of imprisonment and the flicker of hope amid despair.

In the Name of the Father is essential viewing for anyone drawn to stories of justice and humanity. A timeless masterpiece.

Conclave offers a compelling glimpse into the Vatican's secretive papal election process. Ralph Fiennes delivers a commanding performance as Cardinal Lawrence, leading a strong ensemble cast that includes Stanley Tucci and John Lithgow. The film's steady pacing and insightful storytelling keep viewers engaged throughout.

The cinematography effectively captures the grandeur of the Vatican, with both exterior and interior shots enhancing the film's authenticity. Critics have praised the film's balance of suspense and character-driven drama, noting its "pulpy and pensive" nature.

Overall, Conclave is a thought-provoking film that delves into themes of faith and power, offering a rare look into the complexities of Vatican politics. Its strong performances and meticulous direction make it a standout addition to contemporary cinema.

CODA is a brilliantly crafted film that seamlessly blends humor and heartfelt emotion, offering a truly unique cinematic experience. It tells the story of Ruby Rossi, a hearing teenager in a deaf family, as she navigates the challenges of balancing her own dreams with her family's reliance on her. Emilia Jones delivers an extraordinary performance, capturing Ruby's emotional journey with authenticity and charm. The film's portrayal of the deaf community is both respectful and deeply moving, with Troy Kotsur and Marlee Matlin bringing unforgettable depth to their roles.

What makes CODA stand out is its ability to make you laugh, cry, and reflect, often within the same scene. The audition sequence and the silent concert are standout moments that leave a lasting impact. This is a film about family, love, and finding your voice-literally and figuratively. CODA is a must-watch, a beautifully human story that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

"Before" started with an intriguing premise and solid performances, especially from Billy Crystal, but by Episode 3, the pacing falters. The episode feels bogged down by an overuse of nightmare sequences-almost every other scene-making the narrative feel repetitive and slow. While the dream-like visuals are striking, they fail to move the story forward or add meaningful depth to the characters. The series leans heavily on familiar psychological thriller tropes, which undermines its potential to feel fresh or innovative. Despite occasional moments of tension, the plot struggles to build momentum, leaving viewers more confused than compelled. "Before" seems to prioritize atmosphere over substance, which ultimately detracts from its intriguing core mystery. While the performances remain strong, particularly from Crystal, the repetitive structure and lack of narrative drive may leave viewers disengaged. By Episode 3, the show's promise begins to feel like a missed opportunity.

"Disclaimer" is a must-watch for fans of psychological thrillers. The series is brilliantly written, with a gripping story that keeps you hooked from start to finish. Cate Blanchett and Kevin Kline deliver outstanding performances, bringing depth and intensity to their characters. The production quality is superb-every episode is beautifully crafted, with a thoughtful, atmospheric style that draws you into its world.

What sets this show apart is its ability to balance complexity with clarity. The narrative is layered, exploring themes of truth and memory, yet it's never confusing or overwhelming. Each twist and revelation feels earned, keeping you engaged without resorting to cheap tricks.

The pacing is just right-never rushed, yet never dull. Every scene has a purpose, and there's no filler to distract from the core story. It's rare to find a show where every episode feels essential, but "Disclaimer" achieves this effortlessly.

Overall, "Disclaimer" is a deeply thought-provoking and captivating series. It's never boring, not for a single moment. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys intelligent, well-acted dramas with a touch of suspense.

Having anticipated Chapelwaite with high hopes, especially as a fan of Stephen King's works, I found the series to be a drawn-out disappointment. What starts as a promising gothic horror quickly devolves into a pacing nightmare, with episodes that stretch far too long and dialogue that seems endlessly repetitive. Many scenes felt bloated and self-indulgent, seemingly dragging on to fill time rather than to move the story forward or build suspense.

The show's atmosphere was initially intriguing, but even that wore thin as the series seemed to lack direction and momentum. Rather than maintaining a sense of dread, Chapelwaite felt predictable, with overly long exposition that added little to the characters or plot. And the ending-an absurd and unsatisfying twist-left me wondering why I had invested so much time.

As someone who usually appreciates Stephen King's ability to craft memorable horror, Chapelwaite falls far below his standard. The story, while containing intriguing elements, becomes bogged down by slow pacing and a lack of coherent narrative flow. In the end, Chapelwaite was a missed opportunity, turning what could have been a compelling adaptation into an unbearable, overly ambitious slog.

"The Batman" (2022) has some great moments but falls short of being a top Batman movie. The film looks amazing, with a dark and moody Gotham that feels realistic and gritty. Robert Pattinson plays a younger, more serious Batman, and Paul Dano is excellent as The Riddler, bringing a creepy and intense vibe to the role. However, the movie's biggest flaw is its pacing-it's nearly three hours long and feels slow in many parts. Some scenes drag on, making the film feel longer than it needs to be. While the detective angle is interesting, the slow pace takes away from the action and excitement you'd expect from a Batman movie. Overall, "The Batman" has strong acting and a unique style, but its length and slow moments hold it back from being one of the best in the series.

I recently watched "The Perfect Couple" starring Nicole Kidman, and it was a captivating experience. The show is a modern twist on the classic whodunit, and while it unfolds slowly, it draws you in with its intricate plot and suspenseful storytelling.

Nicole Kidman delivers a standout performance, but she's far from the only highlight. The ensemble cast, including Liev Schreiber and Merritt Wever, contributes significantly to the show's success. Schreiber's portrayal of the enigmatic detective adds depth and intrigue, making every scene he's in compelling. Wever, on the other hand, brings a nuanced portrayal of a complex character, providing both emotional weight and sharp intelligence.

The show's slow-burn approach might not be for everyone, but the strength of its performances and the carefully crafted plot make it really worthwhile. It's a testament to how well-executed mystery dramas can be, combining a classic whodunit feel with modern sensibilities. If you're a fan of mystery and enjoy strong ensemble performances, "The Perfect Couple" is definitely worth watching.

Overall, while it may take its time to unravel, the superb acting and engaging narrative make it a truly memorable experience.

"The Night Of" is a standout TV miniseries that offers a compelling and original crime drama. I give it a solid 8 out of 10. From the first episode to the last, the series keeps you hooked with its well-crafted story, excellent acting, and dark atmosphere.

The story follows Nasir "Naz" Khan, a Pakistani-American college student who gets caught up in a murder investigation after a night out goes wrong. The plot is well-written and thought-provoking, exploring the criminal justice system, race, and class in America.

One of the best parts of "The Night Of" is its dark and moody feel. The show's look and design perfectly match the serious and tense story. This darkness adds to the suspense and keeps you engaged throughout the series.

The acting is top-notch. Riz Ahmed shines as Naz, showing his character's transformation from an innocent student to someone hardened by prison and the legal system. John Turturro is equally impressive as John Stone, Naz's lawyer. His portrayal of a struggling lawyer with a skin condition is both convincing and relatable.

Supporting actors like Bill Camp as Detective Dennis Box and Michael K. Williams as Freddy Knight, a prison inmate who befriends Naz, also deliver strong performances. Each actor adds depth to the story, making it richer and more engaging.

While the series is dark, this tone is essential to the story. It offers a realistic look at the criminal justice system, showing its flaws and complexities. This realism makes the show both entertaining and thought-provoking.

In conclusion, "The Night Of" is a must-watch for crime drama fans. Its original story, strong performances, and dark atmosphere make it a standout series that keeps you hooked from start to finish. Despite its serious tone, it is an engaging and insightful tale, deserving of a solid 8 out of 10.

Three Days of the Condor is a superbly crafted political thriller that stands the test of time. Directed by Sydney Pollack and starring Robert Redford, the film delivers a gripping narrative with seamless suspense and political intrigue. Redford's portrayal of CIA researcher Joe Turner, who stumbles upon a deadly conspiracy, is compelling, with great chemistry alongside Faye Dunaway.

The plot unfolds with relentless tension, maintaining a perfect balance between action and introspective moments. Pollack's direction ensures every scene is charged with suspense. The sharp screenplay by Lorenzo Semple Jr. And David Rayfiel delves into themes of government mistrust and espionage, making it highly relevant even today.

Critics have praised the film for its smart narrative, strong performances, and taut storytelling. It entertains while provoking thought, resonating long after the credits roll. For a very relaxing yet intellectually stimulating experience, Three Days of the Condor is an excellent choice.👍 I rated it 8/10 on IMDb.👍

"The Undoing" is a masterful blend of mystery, psychological intrigue, and courtroom drama that captivates from start to finish. The series, based on Jean Hanff Korelitz's novel "You Should Have Known," showcases the exceptional talent of its cast, with standout performances by Nicole Kidman, Hugh Grant, and Donald Sutherland.

David E. Kelley's screenplay is a testament to clever writing and intricate plot development, weaving a narrative filled with unpredictable twists and deep psychological exploration. Each episode meticulously builds suspense, culminating in the explosive courtroom scenes that anchor the series. Episode six, "The Bloody Truth," epitomizes this mastery, delivering a gripping climax that highlights the show's strengths.

Kidman and Grant's portrayals of Grace and Jonathan Fraser are particularly noteworthy. Kidman brings a nuanced vulnerability and strength to Grace, while Grant's performance as the charming yet enigmatic Jonathan adds layers of complexity to the story. The supporting cast, including Sutherland and Edgar Ramirez, deliver equally compelling performances, adding depth and authenticity to the series.

Visually, "The Undoing" is a feast for the eyes, with Susanne Bier's direction capturing the autumnal beauty of New York City, perfectly complementing the show's dark themes. The series' ability to maintain suspense and keep audiences guessing is a testament to its exceptional storytelling and production values.

In sum, "The Undoing" stands out as a top-tier drama that expertly balances character development, plot twists, and courtroom intensity, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre.

"The Promised Land," directed by Nikolaj Arcel, is a gripping historical drama set in the 18th century. It follows Captain Ludvig Kahlen, played by Mads Mikkelsen, as he tries to transform the barren Jutland heath. The film showcases Kahlen's resilience and ambition against harsh realities.

Mikkelsen delivers a powerful performance, supported by a strong cast. The cinematography is stunning, capturing the beauty and harshness of the landscapes. The historical detail immerses viewers in the 18th-century setting.

While primarily a dark drama, the film balances moments of human resilience and hope, making the story compelling without being too somber. The pacing allows viewers to grasp the weight of Kahlen's mission fully.

One of the film's strengths is its ability to tell a personal story within a broader historical context, delving into Kahlen's internal struggles and political pressures.

Overall, "The Promised Land" is a well-crafted historical drama with strong performances, beautiful cinematography, and a compelling narrative. If you enjoy historical dramas with powerful personal stories, this film is worth watching.

I recently watched the TV miniseries "Hitler: The Rise of Evil," and I have to say, it left quite an impression on me. Robert Carlyle, whom I've seen in many movies, truly excelled in the challenging role of Adolf Hitler. Portraying such a complex and infamous figure is no easy task, but Carlyle rose to the occasion brilliantly. His performance was intense and captivating, making Hitler's rise to power both believable and chilling.

The supporting cast, including Liev Schreiber, Julianna Margulies, and Peter O'Toole, also did a fantastic job. Their performances added depth to the story and made it even more engaging. Each actor brought their character to life in a way that kept me invested throughout the entire series.

One thing I particularly appreciated was the production quality. The miniseries, which is about the length of two movies, was very well produced. The sets, costumes, and overall attention to detail made the historical period feel authentic. There wasn't a single boring moment. Despite knowing the story from countless history programs, this dramatization provided a refreshing take on those years.

Overall, "Hitler: The Rise of Evil" is a compelling and well-acted series that offers a dramatic and insightful look at one of history's darkest figures. It's definitely worth watching, whether you're a history buff or just looking for a gripping drama.

"The Snowman" really lets down Michael Fassbender, who's a great actor stuck in a film that doesn't live up to the dark and exciting Scandinavian thrillers we hoped it would. The story is all over the place, making it hard to keep track of what's going on or to really care about the characters. The Norwegian snowy scenes look good, but that's not enough to make up for the story's lack of suspense and excitement. It feels like they tried to pack too much into the film and ended up with something that just doesn't hold together. It's a real shame to see such a wasted opportunity, especially with Fassbender involved.