Chris S

This series is brutally violent. It is also redeeming in some ways. The acting was noteworthy, especially the major characters. E.g., Jeff Daniels as an outlaw, psychopath, “preacher” , and paternalistic gang leader was so believably evil and yet strangely at times a “spiritual Good Samaritan”. His dual personality (light and dark) was terrifying and engrossing. The series had a number of important economic and social issues rolled into the plot. The filming, direction, and cinematography were exemplary. In summary, this series is a top notch Western I’ll watch again.

A relatively suspenseful and quirky murder mystery that reflects the darkness underneath the rocks of the human heart. Performed with humor and seriousness, the seemingly unidimensional actors mostly carry off their menacing roles with subtlety and lunacy. FBI agent Cooper is a captivating straight laced oddball investigator. His ongoing dialogue with himself and Diane the tape recorder is endearing . I especially liked Harry the Sheriff, Lucy on the police radio and the Log Lady. Be prepared for a surreal and unexpected viewing experience. Finally, the score adds to the creepy feeling of the narrative and backdrops. Caveat: Some of minor characters aren’t top level performers.

An engrossing biographical film exploring the WWII Norwegian resistance leader (hero) Gunnar Sønsteby’s morally challenging actions. Specifically, two hour film deals with the horrors of the Norwegian-Nazi side of the war and the atrocities committed by the German occupiers (largely the Gestapo and the SS?) and a select group of Norwegian Nazi sympathizers. The film’s narrative is well written, acted, and depicted. It’s challenging to watch much like all brutal war films (e.g. Schindler’s List), yet there seems to be an underlying societal ethic and individual morality transcending the “well planned” carnage; namely, human freedom is so very costly and requires immense sacrifice to earn and maintain it. Nevertheless, to the hero freedom is worth the exorbitant suffering. Thus, the viewer is asked to consider whether an anti-pacifist “freedom at all costs” worldview is tenable. In short, the film is a philosophical and compelling drama and meaningful reflection on genuine good and evil, as well as the immense grey area between them.

Far cry from the original film created by members of Monty Python. The show reasonably well acted and humorous.

This film is quintessential exposé on systemic racism in the South. Poitier and Steiger are stupendous in their roles. The depictions of good old “reb” boys are truly frightening, for they remain alive and well in the US. The film makes us look at ourselves in a fresh way and reconsider our prejudices within the backdrop of a well designed murder mystery.

One of those classic films that needs to be savored and enjoyed, and not over-analyzed.

This is the third in the Bourne trilogy and it's as good as its predecessors. Unlike most spy flicks of modern ilk, the sound effects don't overwhelm us, nor do the special visual effects. It's a rousing barroom-like brawl type of movie, chocked full of stunning action scenes and stunts. Closeups, vistas, quick cuts, hip music, etc. reflect a top-notch director and film editor(s). Mr. Damon is an ideal anti-hero and makes the character "believable". The acting by the rest of the characters is at least passable, but generally too stoic and cardboard-like for my tastes. Few individual differences in personalities are depicted the CIA wonks. There is dry humor here and there and a few rest stops along the way. In short, a splendid espionage genre film that caps the series in fine style. These movies I can watch almost yearly; they are perfect, like the Lord of the Rings trilogy, for "I need some serious quality escapism" binge-watching.

An absolutely endearing, poignant, and humorous portrayal of a savant-level young woman on the Autism spectrum who deploys her own unique attorney “superpower” in her attempt to bring justice to the marginalized in Korean society. The supporting cast of characters are really carefully crafted backdrops to Attorney Woo’s standout performance. Her love interest is amazingly kind, patient, and supportive. This series allows me the mental space to trust in the good and gracious. Finally, the show tackles challenging issues such as prejudice against the disAbled and the disempowering justice system.

A challenging film to watch and endure. I found few elements of redeeming value in this highly intense and powerful “cowboy on the rough range” drama. It is well conceived and provocative and also cold, detached and malodorous. Abusive men are hard to watch and the lead character, Phil, is a mean spirited snarling dog. He harms all the major characters as an evil overseer might do in a feudal relationship. The acting is superb and music is appropriately eerie and dark.