Monica Ricardez

A Promising Series, But Romance Steals the Show This series boasts a wonderful cast, impressive production values, and an undeniably interesting storyline, particularly if you're seeking a romance. However, for viewers drawn in by the promise of a show rooted in true events, with a focus on political intrigue and special intelligence, it might be a bit of a misdirection. I started watching with the expectation of a spy thriller, eager to delve into the complexities of espionage. What I wasn't prepared for was a full-blown romance novel intricately woven into, and ultimately dominating, the main plot. While I can appreciate that spies are human and capable of love, the extent to which romantic entanglements compromise judgment and, more importantly, crucial missions, was not to my taste. The idea that a critical operation could be jeopardized to the point of danger and murder, all in the name of love, felt overly romanticized and detracted from the show's mysterious elements. The main character's actions became increasingly predictable, and the intrigue of the sub-plots quickly dissolved into the emotional drama of the central relationship. Ultimately, for those hoping for a more grounded and less romanticized take on the world of intelligence, this series may not be the right fit.

Strong performances and great chemistry delivered by Jessica Chastain and Oscar Isaac in every scene. Unfortunately the character development takes too long and the dramatic changes and confrontations make it difficult to understand the deeper motives that drive certain actions. The role reversal concept is somehow switched from a standardized social concept to a detachment of values and sentiments. The cinematography feels claustrophobic and the storyline falls short in delivering consistency and flow ending in a flat and uneventful way.

Joaquin Phoenix continues to prove that he is one of the greats. His performance is flawless, haunting and mesmerizing. His characterization is intense and he dives into the role with great depth and intensity. Character development, allows the audience to capture the character’s transformation, not into comedic insanity but to realization and defiance fostered by societal decay, corruption and neglect. The script brings a touch of the supervillain’s origin story with a classic Hollywood flair and a plethora of music and references to the golden era that set an environment that is gritty, dark and psychological; but still falls short from becoming the perfect backdrop for Phoenix’s captivating performance. Nevertheless, “Joker” is a must see film that presents a pragmatic character developing within the all familiar comic-book universe.