Rick9080 Reviews

Eraser: Reborn (2022)

Just Don't

[1/10 · 1 June 2023]

Wow - I'm amazed that there any positive reviews of this mess at all. It doesn't matter if you didn't see the original Eraser with Arnold or not.

This movie is bad enough that it can stand alone as unwatchable. The acting is so cringe-worthy it actually makes a horrible script even worse!

And though there are scenes and lines lifted directly from the original, they are delivered in a way that is not recognizable as anything close to believable. It's seriously dreadful. I enjoyed the original, and decided to give this a chance - I should have trusted the 1-Star reviews - they were on point.

Fortunately, I watched this while on my treadmill, so I was at least being somewhat productive - even more fortunate, I finished my treadmill session before the halfway point and turned it off.

Tell Me a Story (2018–2020)

Definitely Worthwhile

[9/10 · 27 August 2019]

If you're looking for creativity, and are patient enough to invest in a fairly complex plot that intertwines story lines, then this is a series that you will find enjoyable. Several reviews mention the slow (boring) start but because it's not a typical CBS NCIS-whatever show, the plot takes more than five minutes to develop. The acting is solid, and as several reviewers mentioned, the actors/actresses are very watchable. I enjoyed the Red Riding Hood / Three Little Pigs thematic connection, even though subtle, I was impressed that CBS took a risk on show that dared to stretch creatively. I took off one star because of the action sequences in the end were slightly implausible, and there were a few instances of questionable decision making by some of the characters. But overall, I applaud the breath of fresh air - something original and worth watching - Yay!

The Five (2016)

Not Everyone's "Cupa Tea" But Certainly Worthwhile

[10/10 · 26 March 2019]

I've been a Harlan Coben fan for a long time, and even his novels aren't for everyone. This is definitely an intricate story arc, and there were a couple of times I wondered how the seemingly disconnected plot lines fit into the main story. But as several reviewers stated, "It all comes together in the end." The acting was solid throughout and the story was engaging, and if you like mysteries that make you think and stretch a little, you will find this story line comes to a very well tied-together and fulfilling conclusion. If you're tired of Super Hero Action and predictable Criminal Minds-type fodder, and are looking for something different, this might indeed be your Cupa Tea. It certainly was for me.

The Open House (2018)

Should Have been Titled: "Pilot Light"

[1/10 · 11 June 2018]

Unfortunately I watched this whole movie. And like the other reviews here, if you are lucky enough to be reading this before you watch it - DON'T.

There are several scenes where the main character (mom) has to go down to a scary dark (no lights for some unexplained reason) basement to relight the water heater pilot. She does this multiple times, and then her son takes a turn. Neither of them seem to notice that the control knob somehow turned itself to "off" each time. What's amazing, is this repeated cycle of stupidity is actually one of the most entertaining parts of the movie, making you wonder if the water heater is somehow malevolent (kidding).

Hopefully this gives you some clue as to how horrible this movie is.

Do yourself a favor and do something else - anything else.

Standoff (2006–2007)

Wow! This is worth catching up on.

[10/10 · 4 December 2009]

I just found Standoff on HULU and I have to say: Wow - I'm impressed. I have only seen the first 9 episodes but definitely plan to watch all of them.

The writing is excellent - I agree with the viewer who wrote in their comment that it was difficult to find enough different hostage situations to keep things interesting, but so far they most definitely are. Each situation is unique and unfolds in a very cohesive story that keeps your attention and makes you want to keep watching.

The characters and acting are also excellent. The tension between Ron Livingston and Rosemarie DeWitt comes across as very genuine - not forced - and results in enhancing the action and storyline. (I just read that they got married - no wonder they seemed so genuine on the show).

If you have never seen this, start now. I think you will find the show to be great entertainment. I really cannot believe that Fox let this show go - well, I guess maybe I can believe it, but still, it's a shame that the really good TV is so short-lived.