rebinger-1

Melanie Lynskey is not a hard ass. Never will be a hard ass. She will always be a soft mom. Maybe an annoying aunt but never a hard ass. I can't imagine why she was cast in this role unless she can show me something in her actor tool kit that I've never seen before which is unlikely. I was immediately taken out of this episode when it was revealed that she was the leader of this gang of obviously battle hardened survivors most of whom were men. My wife said it even more succintly: "What was she before, their boss at the Dairy Queen?". Anna Torv or Merle Dandridge would have been much better choices. And, while I'm at it, WHO SHOOTS A DOCTOR IN A SURVIVAL SCENARIO LIKE THAT? It's not like they're a dime a dozen! Bad casting and stupid writing choices that depart from reality are not forgivable.

This series follows the traditional, nature documentary format but with exceptional cinematography. There is a surprise and inspiration, if not a thrill, in each episode. The necessary references to the threat of climate change are expected but not intrusive. Obama is a good narrator and his enthusiasm and respect for the subject matter is obvious. It is remarkable that the formerly most powerful person on the planet could pick such a humble but important project. It is a testament to the man's outlook and humility. I can't imagine the soulless, orange ignoramus and most recent former President doing anything remotely notable.

It's been nearly three years since the last episode aired. I think the momentum was lost. I had a difficult time re-connecting to the storyline and the backstories of the characters. Plus, Henry Winkler was suprisingly unfunny as written in this episode. There were too many developments that felt rushed and unexplained and we were just left with a series of pained expressions on Bill Hader's face. Not really funny and it didn't inspire me to tune in to the next episode.