Arik_P

The new Netflix series "Hostage" is a five-episode production that delivers an intense and binge-worthy viewing experience. The show establishes a high-stakes fictional storyline, centering on a joint venture between the Prime Minister of the UK and the President of France that goes awry.

The series has been noted for its similarities in theme to action thrillers like those starring Gerard Butler, such as "London Has Fallen" or "White House Down." This comparison provides a framework for understanding the show's focus on political leaders in peril.

Performances are a highlight, with Suranne Jones and the rest of the cast delivering strong acting that contributes to the series' compelling nature. Overall, "Hostage" is well-executed and offers a solid, entertaining experience for viewers looking for a quick, intense watch.

Apples Never Fall presents a compelling family drama, but it's a show that requires patience from its audience. The central mystery of the missing matriarch, Joy Delaney, is intriguing, but the narrative often feels a bit overstretched, constantly jumping between the past and the present. This non-linear storytelling, while intended to build suspense and character depth, can feel like a tangled web of side stories that detracts from the central plot.

The true highlight of the series is the stellar cast. Sam Neill and Annette Bening are as good as it gets, delivering performances that are nuanced, powerful, and utterly believable. Their chemistry and individual portrayals anchor the series and make the Delaneys feel like a real, if deeply flawed, family. The rest of the cast is also fine, but it's Bening and Neill who truly shine and elevate every scene they are in.

While the storyline is undoubtedly tangled and, in my opinion, a bit overdone, the show does manage to hold your attention. It's a series that offers a lot to unpack, from themes of family secrets and betrayal to the complexities of long-term relationships. Ultimately, Apples Never Fall is a mixed bag-a show with a fantastic core cast and an interesting premise that gets a bit lost in its own narrative ambition.

The Assassin is a great show that you should definitely watch. Even though the story can sometimes feel a bit messy, it all comes together in the end. It's a perfect show to binge-watch.

If you're a fan of Freddie Highmore, you will love this series. He does a fantastic job in the main role. You get to see a different, more intense side of him, and he handles the complicated parts of his character very well.

The show has a lot of twists and turns, but the story always has a clear goal. You won't feel lost, because everything that happens eventually makes sense. It keeps you on the edge of your seat and makes you want to watch the next episode right away.

In short, The Assassin is a thrilling and smart show with a great performance from Freddie Highmore. If you're looking for a new series to get hooked on, this is it despite some plot holes.