Esther Hamoela

A family of four that had a seemingly normal life in Chicago, due to a blunder created by a business partner, now has to move to a typically holiday resort town in the Ozarks, Missouri to come up with ways in which they could launder money for the notorious Navarro family cartel or risk death. Marty Byrde, a financial advisor, Wendy Bryde a former employee in the politics rallying shpere together with Charlotte and Jonah Bryde, both teenagers arrive in the Ozarks. Within the first week of arriving there, they interacts with the Langmores and their lives are forever intertwined as they navigate through an adrenaline inducing journey trying to launder money for the Navarro Cartel, run by Omar Navarro. My favourite thing about Ozark, which has become quite a rarerity with popular shows these days is how they don't rush to create major blood rushing scenes, there's a type of pace that the show has that makes you feel that that the script was intentionally written to make sense and cover any questions that the viewer might ask as the series progresses. It's a beautifully written show that tells a story and doesn't just try to spark conversation just for the sake of remaining in the hot topics list with every new season. It has it's shock and awe moments, which fit perfectly like a carefully crafted puzzle. Mostly, it's perfectly paced and their most creative aspect is how in the opening scenes, there's art work that depicts the theme of each episode. This is the first time I interact with a series that does this, it's really the little things that separates the series from the rest. I don't know anyone who's watched Ozark and didn't like it. The perfect way to describe it is that it makes sense, it is not rushed. One of Netflix's best work.

Okay so let me set the scene; it's a cold, wet and muddy 1900's industrial British morning. Walking in slow motion, appearing from distance in a cloud of fog, men in immaculate cut suits with long coats and hats with razors stitched in the peak of the hat. Sometimes these men are accompanied by women of kin and sometimes these men walk alone. This is the exact image you get when you think of this 1900's period series. It is a series centering the Shelby family namely; Arthur, John, Finn, Polly, Ada and the infamous Tommy Shelby. It is a family of gypsy gangsters who's initial business centered around horse betting, but as the stakes got higher, it evolved to shipping and making of alcohol, drugs and eventually ventured into politics and straight up personal vendettas. The family runs the streets of Birmigham, they were feared and if you dare cross or scheme them, then violent vengeance was theirs to forcefully exert. Exceptional writing from Steven Knight. It's no wonder how actors of a certain calibre later joined on to be part of the series. Amazing casting, honestly one of the best cast shows in Netflix history. It consists of six seasons. My favourite characters were John Shelby, Alfie Solomons (Tom Hardy), Luca Changretta (Adrien Brody) and the immaculate Thomas Shelby (Cillian Murphy). It would also be remiss if I don't mention the amazing supporting cast of Johnny Dogs and Curly. Well executed. I could go on about this production for days without an end however I will emplore you to binge. My favourite scene of which I replayed like 5 times before quitting. It is the final episode (E6) of Season 3 when everyone lost their minds after a family meeting where they found out they were going to jail for the murders they had committed. Beautiful acting, writing, cinematography so be sure to watch this amazing series ... I say this BY THE ORDER OF THE PEAKY BLINDERS. Oh and one last thing cinematography wise, each time an episode starts, it's usually Thomas Shelby in the first frame appearing side by side  with his real life name (Cillian Murphy) no matter the changing landscapes. Very intentional editing worth mentioning. It's really the little things.

A series that feels very much like watching an independent film, considering it only stretched to five episodes. Amazing cast, the story centered around Mira and Jonathan played by the amazing Jessica Chastain and Oscar Isaac. It follows a couple that has been married for ten years and been together a total of twelve years,  this is established within the first few minutes of the series. It covers topics such as infedility, abortion, the ups and downs of long-term monogomy, finances and power dynamics within the marriage. The first episode is quite ironic once you've watched the entire series because there's a PhD student who's researching a theory, which states that succesful long term marriages, in most cases are a result of the mother being the bread winner and the father being the primary caretaker of the household. However the rest of the episodes show the exact opposite of that said theory. It had worked up until that point, so maybe the theory wasn't farfetched. What was meant to be a picturesque couple who had it figured out, with mom bringing home the bacon and dad making dinner and helping the child with homework was now a bowl of mess. The most interesting thing about this series is how it's  literally centered around Mari and Jonathan, literally... there are other characters who only appear once and the rest of their involvement in the series is through telephone conversation. Peter and Kate, friends of the married couple and Veronica (the nanny who is just a voice on the phone) and the infamous Poli. Another instrumental character is little Ava, the child who's caught up in the forever changing dynamic  of whatever her parents have going on at the time. This couple through being together, separation and divorce can't literally be apart from each other. My favourite thing about the series is, at the beginning of each episode, it shows the cast Jessica and Oscar always preparing to start shooting, either by walking into set or taking direction from the director. The last episode however, shows them wrapping up filming which is what I adore most about the cinematography of the film. Quite a unique way to show the road to the finished product, not the polished version of what we've come to marvel at with the amazing performaces from the star thespians.

Please note, even though she has a day dedicated especially for her, never forget that the famous words of one Wednesday Addams "everyday is about me". This statement is cannot be more true. I started watching the series Wednesday, on a wednesday. Whether that cute fact is relevant or not, I did not want it to be left unsaid. This Netflix series follows the unique, sadistic, "keep your hands to yourself", cold sometimes luke-warm hearted, dark lordess with the pigtails and a literal killer fashion sense, Wednesday Addams. One of, if not the best adaptations of The Addams family narrative. Morticia and Gomez Addam's (parents) make a decision to send Wednesday to their alma mata, Nevermore the school of Outcasts located in Jericho, a town of normies. This was after Wednesday was expelled from all the schools she's ever attended. This series covers her journey through Nevermore as she's adament on trying everything in her power to escape. The town had a series of mystery murders of which she felt compelled to solve as this is her favourite pass time after writing her dark novels and playing the cello, of course . Nevermore is separated into four factions namely, the Scales (Sirens, scaled water creatures), Furs (werewolves), Stoners  (Gorgons, notably inspired by the Greek mythology's Medusa) and Fans (Vampires). Wednesday, however  has psychic abilities, so did her mother. The school is run by Princal Weems, who's a shapeshifter. Throughout her Journey at Nevermore, Wednesday is surrounded by interesting characters, most especially her roommate, Enid Sinclaire, her extreme opposite. She finds herself at the center of trouble both in town and in school grounds. The Addams family does get to make guest appearances throughout the series. Morticia and Gomez (parents), Pugsley (little brother), Lurch (family caretaker), Uncle Fester ( the one person who manages to get a smile out Wednesday without even trying but just by his presence). Most importantly the star of the show, our amazing "Thing" (a special stiched up hand). Tim Burton's adaptation is simply put, brilliant.  Fun fact is how Christina Richie, who used to play Wednesday Addams, returns as the villain of the story as a teacher of carnivores plants, Miss Marilyn Thornhill. Wednesday can be dark and self-centred, however at her core, she keeps an eye out for those she truly loves. I love how we get a grain of warmth through her weird friendships with Enid because "they just work" and how she looks out for Eugene because "the hive always sticks together". Sidebar: episode four (36:00) the best dance scene is television history. Iconic stuff!

First thought after watching the series is; it's all over the place. I will admit that there's two reasons why I ended up watching it, one being that Rosie Perez is part of the cast and I have never known myself to dislike any project she's been a part of. Secondly because I was curious to see Kaley Cucoko outside of her iconic role as Penny from the Big Bang Theory. The flight attendant follows the life of a flight attendant Cassandra, played by Kaley Cuoco. I can define her as an alcoholic flight attendant who doesn't have a steady partner, who as a result of her career spends time jetting around the globe as part of the first class cabin crew who engages in fun activities with her flight attendant friends and men from different parts of her destinations and has no real attachments. On a flight to Bangkok, she ended up being an attendant to a passenger named Alex whom she ended up spending the night with and in the morning when she wakes up her life is changed forever, the series then follows the series of events that unravel as a result of what she discovers when she wakes up. The series falls under different genres like comedy-drama, thriller, mystery and a bit of dark comedy so it becomes a bit of a challenge when recommending it to friends as to what kind of series it really is. The cinematography is very layered, as in, it is shot as a frame within frame in certain scenes especially scenes involving Cassie and Alex, to show the conversation she's having subconsciously with Alex. It won't go down as one of the great series I've had the pleasure of watching over the years however it is a good watch for someone who's trying to deviate from the typical series story line.

This is an old show I admit, however this review is for the little me that always knew I was gonna love this show but never quite got the opportunity to watch. I love that it's everything I ever thought it was. Stars Hallow, the unique little community that looks like a scientific experiment of what would happen when you put together weird characters in one location and follow them throughout life as they grow. The true definition of comfort show. Lorelai and Rorey Gilmore, swoon! Where do you even start with these two? The dynamic duo has done more for my English vocabulary than my English teacher could ever dream of contributing. I think they are a true depiction of what every little girl thinks of when they imagine having a wholesome relationship with their mother. To say I love them is simply not enough. It encompasses everything, romance, true and warm friendship, laughter, coming of age and most importantly, what it feels like to have a tribe and true sense of community. I just wanted to come back as an adult and definitely confirm that it is everything I ever wished it was and if you need some comfort watching... this series right here, you'll never regret your decision! Gilmore Girls Forever!

Let me start of by saying that this is probably one of the best cast series that I have watched in a while. From Claire Foy as the young Queen Elizabeth, to Helena Bonham Carter as the Queen's sister Princess Margaret, Olivia Colman as the more matured Queen and the amazing Emma Corrin who introduces us to the beloved Duchess of Wales, Princess Diana. I mean brilliant casting 10/10. If I were to name all the brilliant cast members then this would probably be the longest review in history. The Crown which is produced by Netflix follows the story of one the most famous monarchs in the world, the British Royal family. It explores the story from the early days of Queen Elizabeth's life when her father was still the reigning King of England to when she ascended the throne. It covers her marriage and the birth of her children to also the introduction of the Duke and Duchess of Wales, Charles and Diana's famous and controversial marriage in the latest season 4. Much of what is covered in the series is very factual to what we have seen in real life covered in the media and some documentaries dedicated to the life of some royal family members. The Crown doesn't shy away from some of the controversial topics that were sometimes covered by the media but quickly dismissed by the royal family. From the upbringing of Prince Charles in the early seasons to the Queen's marriage and the alledged hidden members the royal family locked away at the mental facilities and Princess Margaret's interesting life choices. The series is shot meticulously in a way that pays attention to the most intimate details captured on camera. The costumes and the manner in which the royal members are set to behave and manouver around other royal family members and the public at large. You get a sense of the well oiled machine that is the royal family and how much weight it holds in the every day to day running of the British Empire, the staff as well as how the media and the Prime minister's office from the early days of Winston Churchill and Margret Thatcher until recently, and how they cater to the British citizens and the Queens needs. The series has 4 seasons so far with the 5th season set to be released later in 2022. Season 3 sees a change in pace with the introduction of the new cast, the matured Queen Elizabeth portrayed by Oliva Colman. It's the slowest season yet and seaon 4 is undoubtedly the best season so far for me ofcourse because it covers the introduction of the much loved Princess Diana and her marriage which has people's interest especially because people wanted to see it from the family's perspective as they know much research went into the storyline of the show. The Crown is definitely one of the best produced Netflix series all around and it's one with repeat value because you probably missed small details from the storyline that you have to go back and watch again to get a better understanding of.

The beauty of the series is in the simplicity of the story line. Given that the series is compiled of a stellar cast, you would expect a complicated and major story line with hidden clues etcetera. However, within the two season, the story writing has managed to capture the essence of each character within the Monterey five women as the community refers to them. I would add though that I would have liked it if they delved more into Renatta story line and it's background, however with such a beautifully written story, there was bound to be something left to be desired. The series captures the true essence of what we believe to encompass the complex lives of the women who live in suburbia outside of being rich career women and housewives who tend to the activities of their children's school lives and their husbands who often live double or triple lives.I would also add that given the cast, I absolutely loved that there was no particular star of the show, each character was necessary to the unfolding of the story line. Another observation I made is how they did not all have to posses major personality like Madeline and Renata. Jane and Celeste and Bonnie had more reserved personalities and yet were so pivotal in the roles they played in the unfolding of the story. The commentary by the community members in the first season was also a nice touch, I like the fact that it was not an ongoing theme throughout the second season. This was worth all the binging , great series .

Before anything, I want to acknowledge the genius writing of Michaela Coel. To think that the storyline highlights topics that are at the center of all the important conversations that need to be had in this day and age. I enjoy a series that puts emphasis on the dialogue between the characters. I love the dynamic that the friends share in this series.The storyline is quite intriguing, watching yourself relive the most traumatic events in your life while being in control of the narrative, is quite empowering to say the least. The characters on the show are 100% suited to the roles they play. Navigating adulthood while trying to make peace with the brewing emotions of being a survivor while also using every resource at your disposal to be your own saving grace. Because lets face it, nobody is coming to save you but yourself .Plus I love that the ending was quite unexpected and very realistic considering many would want a heroic ending to quite a thought evoking story. The episodes focuses on the themes (that most people in their twenties, trying to take it a day at a time deal with) and gets straight to the point, no dragging of the plot. Perfect writing. P.S I love Kwame... we all need a friend like him in our lives.

Disclaimer: this is a critical analysis of the series Squidgame and if you're looking for a candy coated review of how amazing it is then I suggest you skip to those with a 5 star review of the series. I watched this series with my friends, we watched it over a period of a week and they absolutely loved it. So what do I think? I would like to acknowledge the creative genius that is the plot of the storyline. I love good story telling more than anything and I'll give credit where credit is due. This series was a global phenomenon, captivating and unlike anything we have ever seen before so in that regard, they had nothing to lose. It was intriguing and kept you on your toes. However I wouldn't rate it a 10/10 like everyone else who watched it, hence it being number 1 for weeks on end on that streaming platform of Netflix. My reason for continuing to watch it is because it was unlike any show I had ever seen, I love more than anything that they were able to keep one location throughout the series and still make it interesting however its not a show with replay value for me. The shock and awe and the reviews I read about it did not quite capture what I encountered after watching it. I feel that it was quite exaggerated but I'll also acknowledge that we all have different taste and that's completely fine. I would not write home about it and recommend it on the basis of it's the best series I have ever watched. I would recommend it on the basis of "if you wanna watch something quick and different then that's what you should watch". It's one season and it gets straight to the point. The last episode was lackluster, I see what they were trying to do however it didn't quite give what it was supposed to. However I'm glad that I feasted because I didnt want to be edgy and be the only human being with access to the internet who did not see it. I do not regret watching it however I will not repeat like others who probably loved it so much that they are willing to rewatch. I think more than anything it was good that such an abstract idea of a series was introduced and it will probably help launch creative's in the series/movie making industry to come up with new and interesting ideas that will keep the audience captivated. Not the usual tired and played out ideas we have become accustomed to.