Jonathan Reyman

After 3-4 episodes, the plot became so contrived and predictable that I watched two more to see if it would improve, but then gave up. The science was preposterous and the characters were no longer interesting. Grace's acting consisted of her constantly opening her eyes wide to portray every behavior regardless of what it was. Ben's was good at puppy dogs looks and not much else, including his attempts at gravitas. Michaela was little more than a one-trick pony, and Vance was so predictable in the development of his character that I was predicting what he would do next before he did it. I don't know how the series ended, and I didn't care. The time spent watching it was mostly wasted.

"Ma Rainey's Black Bottom" may well be the picture of the year, a sad, poignant tale of what black performers had to endure for their art for decades. Viola Davis in the title role is a marvel who should have a lock on Best Actress. Chadwick Boseman in his final role is magnificent as Levee in this most recent presentation of August Wilson's play. The supporting cast are similarly spot on as an ensemble of black blues musicians who are just trying to make the gig happen. You must see this film. It's transformative.