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aeiryl
Reviews
Smash (2012)
Sorry it lasted only 2 seasons
The cast, level of vocal ability and performance, choreography, and dialogue were all excellent. The juxtaposition and occasional pairing of the two lead singers in competition for the lead in Bombshell really played up the suspense and excitement while highlighting what each brought to the part. It helped that we saw it through the director's eyes - the difficulty in choosing between them.
I like that it showed the conflict between making decisions for the good of the show and for the good of existing relationships. The only unnecessary character / conflict, in my opinion, was the ladder climbing Ellis. His character had no real development or arc. The obstacles he put in the way of success could have been shown by different means than this villain who we were not made to care about strongly either way.
I would not have taken it in a different direction the 2nd season; it didn't jive with what seemed to be the original premise of the show (i.e., a musical about putting on a musical). The struggle to mount the show and bring it to major success was interesting in itself. Especially when showing the inner struggles of the various teams, groups and individuals. Very unique - nothing like has come before it - and authentic. I miss it!
Outside the Law (2002)
Definitely a must see
I liked this so much, I bought it. Definitely not an 'A' movie, but Cynthia Rothrock and Seamus Dever (Army Wives) make it worth watching. Dever is excellent in everything I've seen, and I think Rothrock is a good actress as well as martial arts / kick-boxing star and both are very good in this. The fight choreography is nice to watch and well executed. I personally like 'one person can take on City Hall' movies and 'don't give up when the odds are against you' movies. This is both. Very inspiring.
When I first saw this, from the ending, I expected some agent was working on putting together a deal for a TV series. I still think they should have done a pilot / series about where this character goes from here as she is driving out of town. It's perfect, she helps people while on the run (The Fugitive, The Pretender).