pelegirl5284 Reviews

The Stand: The End (2020) Season 1, Episode 1

Other the Obvious

[7/10 · 18 December 2020]

So, putting aside the very bold choice to utilize this non-linear approach... the casting is perfect, and the performances are dynamite. So good in fact, I quickly became less distracted by the nonlinear story telling and now pretty psyched for the next episode.

I am thankful that I already know the story, as I'm pretty sure I would have walked away from this first episode feeling utterly lost and frustrated. I'd like to hear some feedback from a total newcomer, and if they have a good hold on the plot, having no prior relationship with the book, '94 miniseries or the characters.

There's one one major issue-and unfortunately it's pretty obvious one. In this Golden age of Television, how the hell wasn't this given the 5 season treatment?

THE STAND is literally based on a Stephen King EPIC. It has been waiting for an epic adaptation, and yet, here we are AGAIN trying to squeeze a 1000+ page epic into 9 hours. This could have been the Leftovers 2.0. Its all there. And these incredible performances only emphasize this lost opportunity.

The Vanishing (1993)

Just Watch The Trailer & You'll Understand

[4/10 · 2 August 2020]

The only thing about this film that's worth mentioning is that Jeff Bridges is actually putting forth what probably could have been a really interesting performance. Unfortunately there's just not one damn reason it should exist.

The director created one of the most brilliant True-Crime Thrillers set to film. Every one of the actors in the original 1988 film give phenomenal performances. No question. And yet the the genius of the film is prominently shown in the way the plot is revealed. Nothing is flat out explained to us. Rather, it lets us catch up to it. The film manages to give us a scenario both frightening and ridiculous-and there isn't a single moment you don't buy as grounded and honest. The film earns every moment and the choices the characters make never feel false.

But this movie isn't that. It's slick and stupid, and the ending is completely different-which eliminates the entire point of the original story. Apparently the director had convinced himself that us Americans wouldn't be able to handle a dark and existential ending. Turned out he was wrong about that assumption--seems Americans were hoping for a plot that resembled something like the one they had fallen in love with in 88'.

Go watch the original. It's the best gift you'll probably give yourself all week.

And oh yeah! The trailer for this thing gives EVERY SINGLE PLOT POINT AWAY.

Wtf marketing?!

Crashing (2017–2019)

Truly Enjoyable

[10/10 · 8 March 2017]

What an incredibly refreshing show about a familiar subject. I have been a fan of Pete Holmes for a few years now and I wasn't quite sure how this was going to work on screen- - especially on HBO, but it is more than obvious that this collaboration has been placed in the best of hands. Pete is doing some really special work, and Appatow knows just how to bring it out of him in the best of ways. After years of learning about Pete's story I am so glad we are getting the chance to see his own artistic interpretation of it---and what better way than with the help of Judd Appatow? GREAT casting, top notch writing, lovely moments---both honest and funny, and I really look forward to whatever is coming next.

Black Mirror: Shut Up and Dance (2016) Season 3, Episode 3

Jaw Permanently Dropped

[10/10 · 23 February 2017]

Look, this episode really IS that good. There is nothing I could possibly say that another reviewer probably hasn't said more eloquently about this episode---be it acting, directing, story, hell even music.

If ANYTHING, what I can do is SERIOUSLY recommend watching this show in the order that it is listed. It is done so ft or a reason, and I only wish that I had watched "San Junipero" after this episode like I was (obviously) supposed to. If you are the type of viewer that tends to get emotionally wrapped up in what you are watching, you'll want to take my advice. You may have an easier go at enjoying the rest of your day.

But yes, EXCELLENT episode. No pulled punches---One of the most vital reasons why we love Black Mirror so much.

The Science of Sleep (2006)

an extremely "okay" movie

[5/10 · 23 January 2008]

I don't know what it is. But the movie just wasn't that great in my opinion. Visually it was spectacular, but as far as the story goes..it really didn't do anything for me. And it's not like I don't "think outside the box" (I'm a huge David Lynch fan) but I just don't understand why people fell in love with it so hardcore. I guess I was waiting for a climax that never came. The director is unbelievably talented though.

Anyways, I just watched it last night, and that was the feeling I was left with. Beautiful to look at, but not much in the story that spoke to me.