thedogowner Reviews

Resident Alien (2021– )

Enjoyable view of humanity from an outsiders perspective

[10/10 · 16 October 2022]

I usually know whether something is going to keep my interest within the first few moments and this show did just that. My wife was half paying attention while playing games on her ipad. That was about a month ago; at this point this is our go to show anytime we have a moment to set aside and relax.

It is a refreshing view of humanity and although this type of perspective has been done before; this is done very well. There is a lot of dark humor and I find myself genuinely laughing along. It is not forced at all. The viewer can't help but become emotionally invested in the characters as there is much depth to them.

Along with the depth there is so much fun though. The dynamic between D'Arcy and Judy I find funny, as Judy calls D'Arcy a "skank" and D'Arcy recipoicates you still feel the love between the characters. There are friendships formed throughout the series where there is character growth and understanding present and it all fits together rather well.

Harry (the Alien) narrates here and there and none of the narration insults your intelligence. It actually adds significantly to the story. Any of us could feel a bit like Harry as an outsider in our own lives. The actor who plays Harry (Alan Tudyk) does an amazing job portraying someone who is awkward and eager to learn in their new human form. At this point my wife and I are jokingly talking like Harry and must remind ourselves to stop before we enter a public place. When we are far from home maybe we'll just keep on talking like Harry for the fun of it.

If you are debating on watching this just give it a chance. Very enjoyable watch.

The Black Phone (2021)

Well acted, written and paced.

[9/10 · 3 October 2022]

I just watched this a few days ago and thoroughly enjoyed it. What I enjoyed most about it is the fact that every scene is significant. The characters are all very convincing and that draws you into the story. It is suspenseful and it can be a little scary at times but it is not filled with jump scares. The two siblings, Finney and Gwen that the story really centers around do an excellent job of drawing the viewer in and becoming emotionally invested in the film. Another thing I appreciated about this film is the fact that it doesn't insult the viewer's intelligence by narrating or explaining anything. You really won't know much more than the central characters which is what keeps it suspenseful.

God's Favorite Idiot (2022– )

Enjoyable

[10/10 · 9 July 2022]

I am fairly picky with how I invest my time and often stop watching something within a few minutes if it doesn't interest me.

This however did keep my interest. I found the characters to be likable. I laughed a few times as well. Tom in particular made me laugh especially in the last episode.

Melissa McCarthy and her husband Ben Falcone work well together in this.

I enjoyed it and it flowed along at a nice pace. I'm not sure if there will be a follow up season. There definitely could be as there is enough of a story to work with and the characters can carry it for at least another season.

It does not deserve low reviews. Every character in this is entertaining and brings something to the show.

The Power of the Dog (2021)

Subtle and Beautiful Scenery

[9/10 · 19 January 2022]

What I appreciated most about this film is that it doesn't insult your intelligence. There are many circumstances in the film that will offer a deeper understanding of the characters in a subtle way, allowing the viewer to read between the lines. You will understand why the bully feels the need to behave in such away. The behavior is not acceptable, you will simply understand the motivation.

What is true strength? To me one trait it is to be true to one's self even when it will not be acceptable and judged by others. Considering the time period that this film takes place in however being true to one's self could result in death.

If you are looking for an edge of your seat action packed film this is not what you want to watch right now. If you are in the mood to watch something laid back and can appreciate a well acted film as if you are simply an observer of the lives of others for a time, enjoy.

I watched it yesterday and I like the idea of waiting a day to see how it left me feeling. What I ended up with was an understanding of Phil and feeling empathy for him despite his mistreating of others.