Miss J

This show is dreadful, DREADFUL. As someone else mentioned, it is clear it was written by a bunch of men, as it reads like a 'how to guide' for feminism whereas, in reality, it barely scratches the surface. It is beyond shallow; the beginning of the third episode where they are discussing 'self-care' in terms of what cosmetic procedures they've had (including vaginal injections) feels like a long, drawn-out advert and is indicative of the shallow world the writers inhabit. It is disappointing to see some truly great actors lower themselves by being part of this series. Sarah Paulson's character is the only one who exhibits anything resembling range. Everyone else is so blank and monotone. Kim K does an okay job for someone who is clearly not an actor, but that doesn't make the show any more involving or intriguing. I couldn't identify anything resembling a plot or storyline, other than the overdone theme of 'spouse cheats, woman seeks revenge' blah blah. Proceed with caution: it is likely you will lose a few brain cells in the process of watching this drivel.

Sutton Foster is incredible but I soon tired of this show. It started off brilliantly but now getting through it is like walking through molasses. The banter is so fast and quip-like that it's difficult to keep up and understand what they are saying much of the time, and when you do, you realise it was pointless to try anyway because nothing of note was said. It feels like it's trying too hard to emulate Gilmore Girls which was fine, but not the sort of show that can or should be emulated without it being obvious, in my opinion. The dancing in Bunheads is amazing and definitely sets it apart in this regard, but I'm not sad there wasn't a second series. Side note, I was kind of shocked how quickly Fanny overcomes the death of her son. I mean, there is little mention of him after the first couple of episodes and she doesn't seem to have any enduring grief or sadness. That, to me, was beyond strange but probably just for the sake of convenience.

I have seen and read a lot of criticism and downright hatred for Meghan, but wanted to make up my own mind. Honestly, I thought this show was delightful. Aspirational visuals, easy to make food and gifts, and Meghan herself seems far more relatable than her nay-sayers would suggest. She is sweet, and cheerful. I honestly don't know how she does it amidst all the BS she has to deal with. 'With Love, Meghan' is not to be taken too seriously and certainly not a reason for a character assassination of MM (grow up, FFS).

Harlem had the potential to be great. I felt the acting was good, as were the storylines. However, rather than dealing with and representing the issues that black people (women in particular) have encountered with any sensitivity and depth, there was a lot of negativity and stereotyping about white people, which seemed excessive and unnecessarily divisive. I definitely think it's important to talk about racism, but not in a way that supports further discrimination or generalisation about a group of people. It kind of belittles the point being made and reinforces an attitude of 'us' and 'them' rather than one of understanding and compassion. I think this really let Harlem down.

If I could sum up And Just Like That in one word, it would be 'uncomfortable'. I applaud the writers for integrating societal norms that have evolved since SATC was aired, but the manner in which it is done is clunky and obvious. It's great that the cast is more diverse, that different races and nationalities have come to the fore, but rather than doing it in a subtle and inclusive way, it's more like 'Look at us! Look what we've done! Look how many new cast members from different backgrounds we've included' in a kind of self-congratulatory, 'woke' manner. It somewhat takes away from the authenticity of the show and overshadows what might otherwise have been a genuinely good series. Furthermore, I used to like Miranda. She was cynical, self-assured and unapologetic, but she is presented as much more needy and irritating in this series. I think Kim Cattrall made the right call in avoiding any involvement. SATC wasn't known for being subtle, but AJLT is a whole other level. I watched it, but didn't particularly enjoy it.

Exceptional series which is incredibly relatable. Issa Rae is a star. I really liked the main characters and don't understand some reviewers criticisms of Molly. She is a well-rounded character with flaws like everyone, but ultimately likeable. Her and Issa's friendship is a joy to watch. My only annoyance was the repeated references to 'white people' as if white people are all the same. It just doesn't seem helpful. However, to remove a star for this would imply the series is worthy of only 4 stars, when it is not.

I am a bit torn about The Full Monty reboot. It was entertaining and I found the storyline with Silvan and Darren to be heartwarming. Others though, not so much. The storyline with Horse was difficult to watch, yet realistic, but the scene in the job centre was shocking. I have no idea what the pigeon/ Korean gangster storyline was about - a bit far fetched if you ask me. Furthermore, some elements were just woke tick boxing exercises that didn't resonate, as if they tried to cover as many 'relevant topics' as possible in one series. There was only one scene that was in reference to the original film (i.e. the dancing). All in all though, I thought it was a fairy enjoyable watch.

Best thing I've seen in a long time. Just when you think there is nothing new, Jury Duty comes along. Such an authentic, funny, wonderfully heart warming show with great actors and a hero at the centre of it all. Highly recommended if you're looking for something that will restore your faith in humanity.

One word to describe this film is 'patronising'. Patronising to Muslims, who are painted as one-dimensional; patronising to people who have arranged marriages (since the majority in the film are set to fail); and patronising to single women, who are painted as depressed and settling for a one night stand with any old Tom, Dick or Harry, rather than *shock horror* actually being content on their own. The whole film is about finding wholeness in another person, which I guess is the premise of rom coms, but it manages to offend numerous groups of people in the process. Yes, it is mildly entertaining and has promise, but fails to deliver. Emma Thompson's overbearing mother character was more than a little bit irritating. Lily James is wasted in this film.