Arik_P Reviews

The Innocent (2021)

A Thrilling Ride with a Few Bumps

[7/10 · 16 April 2024]

The Innocent" is a gripping thriller that takes viewers on a rollercoaster of suspense, but it's not without its quirks. Let's dive into the details:

Plot and Suspense: The show's central premise revolves around a man named Mateo Vidal, whose life takes a dark turn after a fateful night. The suspense builds steadily as we uncover secrets, lies, and unexpected connections. The tension keeps you hooked, and you'll find yourself binge-watching to get to the truth.

Backflashes and Time Shifts: While the non-linear storytelling adds complexity, it can also be a double-edged sword. The frequent flashbacks and time jumps might leave some viewers disoriented. At times, it feels like we're piecing together a jigsaw puzzle blindfolded. However, if you enjoy unraveling mysteries, this format could be right up your alley.

Character Development: The characters are flawed, haunted by their pasts, and often caught in a web of their own making. Mario Casas as Mateo delivers a compelling performance, portraying vulnerability and determination. The ensemble cast adds depth, but some secondary characters could have been fleshed out more.

Violence and Dark Themes: Brace yourself for intense scenes. "The Innocent" doesn't shy away from violence, and some moments are downright brutal. If you're sensitive to such content, proceed with caution. However, it serves the overall tone of the show, emphasizing the stakes and consequences.

Worth Watching? Despite its flaws, "The Innocent" is worth your time. The intricate plot, unexpected twists, and morally gray characters make it a standout thriller. Just be prepared for a mental workout as you navigate the fractured timeline.

In summary, if you're a fan of suspenseful dramas and can handle a few narrative acrobatics, give "The Innocent" a shot. It won't leave you indifferent, and you'll be pondering its mysteries long after the credits roll.

Wrong Side of the Tracks (2021– )

Captivating and addicting

[8/10 · 6 April 2024]

"Wrong Side of the Tracks," the Spanish crime drama, is a captivating watch that weaves together action, suspense, and heartwarming moments. The series revolves around Tirso, a hardened ex-soldier thrust back into a world he left behind when his granddaughter gets embroiled with a local drug ring.

The show's strength lies in its ability to seamlessly blend these elements. The action sequences are pulse-pounding, keeping you on the edge of your seat. The narrative maintains a constant sense of suspense, leaving you wondering what dangerous situation Tirso will face next. But beneath the thrill lies a touching story about family and the unwavering love between a grandfather and his granddaughter.

Apart from the captivating plot, the show boasts phenomenal performances, especially from José Coronado as Tirso. He perfectly embodies the gruff exterior and unwavering determination of a war veteran, making you root for him throughout his fight to protect his family.

If you're looking for a show that offers an exciting blend of action, drama, and heartwarming moments, look no further than Wrong Side of the Tracks.

The Girl from Oslo (2021– )

A Riveting Twist on Espionage Drama

[7/10 · 17 March 2024]

As the credits rolled on the final episode of The Girl From Oslo, I found myself both satisfied and yearning for more. This Norwegian-Israeli thriller, now streaming on Netflix, deftly weaves together espionage, family drama, and heart-pounding action,bringing fiction and current reality to an unbelievable co-existence.

Plot Summary: The story kicks off in Oslo, where Alex Bakke (played brilliantly by Anneke von der Lippe) and her husband Karl (Anders T. Andersen) embark on a desperate quest to find their daughter, Pia (Andrea Berntzen). Pia has vanished in Israel, and her mysterious disappearance leads Alex to confront old friends, buried secrets, and the shadowy world of intelligence agencies.

What Sets It Apart: The Girl From Oslo stands out for several reasons:

Character Depth: The characters are more than mere pawns in a geopolitical chess game. Their emotional struggles, personal histories, and complex relationships add layers of authenticity.

Twists and Turns: Just when you think you've figured it out, the plot takes an unexpected detour. The show keeps you guessing, and the revelations hit like a well-aimed punch.

International Flavor: The split setting between Norway and Israel provides a refreshing change. The scenic beauty of Oslo contrasts with the tense streets of Jerusalem creating a rich visual tapestry.

Parental Anguish: Anneke von der Lippe's portrayal of Alex's desperation is gut-wrenching. As a mother fighting against time and terror, she delivers a performance that resonates.

Moral Dilemmas: The show grapples with tough questions. Should governments negotiate with terrorists? What sacrifices are justifiable for a loved one's safety?

Minor Quibbles: While some critics argue that the plot is predictable, I appreciate that The Girl From Oslo doesn't shy away from tackling real-world issues. Yes, it occasionally leans on familiar tropes, but it does so with conviction.

The creators did not explain anywhere who is who in the desicion making forum in Israel as portraied by the various participants.

The character of the Israeli chief of the general staff of the IDF is pathetic and humiliating making him obsolete.

Final Verdict: If you're a fan of shows like Homeland and Fauda, give this one a shot. It's a binge-worthy ride that balances heart-pounding action with emotional depth. And remember, sometimes the most dangerous secrets lie closer to home than we realize.

The Girl From Oslo may not be flawless, but its strengths far outweigh any shortcomings. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and let the suspense unfold.

Killing Eve (2018–2022)

Boaring game of Tom and Jerry

[5/10 · 13 March 2024]

Killing Eve starts off with a bang. The first season is electrifying. Sandra Oh and Jodie Comer are phenomenal as Eve and Villanelle, a bored MI5 officer and a captivating assassin locked in a twisted game of cat and mouse. Their dynamic is addictive, the suspense is palpable, and the dark humor hits perfectly.

However, the show starts to lose its luster after season 1. The core cat-and-mouse chase we're hooked on becomes repetitive. The will-they-won't-they tension between Eve and Villanelle feels increasingly frustrating, and the plot takes some nonsensical detours. While the acting remains strong, the narrative momentum slows, and the later seasons struggle to recapture the initial magic.

If you're looking for a show with a tight, suspenseful plot that maintains its brilliance throughout, Killing Eve might not be the one. But if you enjoy stellar performances and a darkly comedic first season, it's still worth checking out.

Trigger Point (2022– )

A must watch

[8/10 · 5 March 2024]

Trigger Point", the UK TV series, delivers an intense and gripping experience that keeps viewers hooked from start to finish. Let's dive into the details:

Vicky McClure's Stellar Performance: Vicky McClure, known for her exceptional acting prowess, takes the lead as Lana Washington-an "expo" (member of the Metropolitan Police bomb disposal squad). Her portrayal is both compelling and authentic, drawing us into the high-stakes world of bomb defusal.

Adrian Lester's Solid Contribution: Adrian Lester, playing Joel "Nut" Nutkins, Lana's bomb disposal partner, brings depth and chemistry to their dynamic. Their banter and camaraderie add an engaging layer to the series.

The Tension-Fueled Plot: Trigger Point doesn't hold back on suspense. Bomb after bomb, Lana faces life-or-death situations, and the stakes keep escalating. The tension is palpable, leaving viewers breathless.

Preposterous Fun: The show embraces its preposterousness with gusto. Imagine a blend of CSI: Peckham and Line of Bomb Duty. The jargon-filled walkie-talkie exchanges ("We're going to need to prep the pollysquash") add to the thrill. It's a rollercoaster ride you won't want to miss.

Twists and Turns: Brace yourself for unexpected twists. The series keeps you guessing, and just when you think you've figured it out, it throws another curveball. The finale leaves you hungry for more.

In summary, Trigger Point is a bombastic cocktail of adrenaline, suspense, and explosive moments. If you're a fan of heart-pounding thrillers, this one's a must-watch .For those seeking escapism and a wild ride, tune in and let the countdown begin!

Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One (2023)

Thrills and Misses

[5/10 · 16 February 2024]

Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One: A Review of Thrills and Misses Strap in for a wild ride, but don't expect a masterpiece. Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One delivers on its promise of action, with adrenaline-pumping sequences that will leave you breathless. However, the film's complexity and pacing might leave you feeling lost and questioning the logic of some choices.

Keeping track of the players: The large cast and intricate plot require viewers to pay close attention. You'll need to remember who's who and their motivations, which can be challenging, especially during the film's fast-paced moments.

Car chases with diminishing returns: While the action sequences are impressive, particularly the motorcycle chase through Rome, some car chases feel unnecessarily long, dragging down the film's momentum.

Pushing the boundaries of believability: The Mission: Impossible franchise has always flirted with the impossible, but even for this series, some moments stretch credulity too far. Venice, usually teeming with tourists, appears eerily empty, pushing the suspension of disbelief to its limits.

Visually stunning, but not Oscar-worthy: The special effects are undeniably impressive, but the film relies heavily on them, sometimes at the expense of emotional depth and character development. While technically proficient, the film might not resonate with those seeking a more nuanced cinematic experience.

Overall, Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One is a fun, action-packed ride, but it's not without its flaws. If you're looking for a mind-bending thriller, you might be disappointed. However, if you crave heart-stopping stunts and a globetrotting adventure, this film delivers.

Leave the World Behind (2023)

Leave the World Behind: Suspense Hampered by Plot Holes Galore-Waste of time

[3/10 · 12 February 2024]

**Leave the World Behind** starts strong, pulling you into its unsettling premise with chilling efficiency. The isolated vacation home, the power outage, the unexpected visitors - the film expertly builds tension, leaving you glued to the screen as secrets unravel and the world outside seems to crumble. However, as the story progresses, its initial strength is sadly weakened by a swiss cheese-like abundance of plot holes.

Let's start with the good. The performances are undeniably captivating. Julia Roberts and Ethan Hawke deliver powerful portrayals of a couple grappling with fear and uncertainty, while Ruth Wilson and Mahershala Ali bring their own brand of intensity to the table. The film's visual style is also noteworthy, using claustrophobic framing and shaky camerawork to amplify the sense of unease.

However, the cracks start to show as the narrative unfolds. Crucial details are left unexplained, creating more confusion than intrigue. The nature of the outside threat remains frustratingly murky, and the characters' motivations sometimes feel inconsistent. Actions defy logic, leaving viewers scratching their heads instead of on the edge of their seats.

For instance, crucial decisions are made based on limited information, and characters conveniently forget vital details when it suits the plot. The ending, while ambiguous, feels more like a cop-out than a satisfying resolution, leaving many questions unanswered and plot threads dangling.

While **Leave the World Behind** succeeds in building suspense, the enjoyment is ultimately marred by its numerous plot holes. It's a film that frustrates as much as it fascinates, leaving you wishing it had paid more attention to building a cohesive narrative instead of just relying on the strength of its performances and atmosphere.

**In short:** Suspenseful and well-acted, but ultimately undermined by a frustrating number of plot holes that leave the viewer more confused than satisfied.

**Would I recommend it?** If you're looking for a thought-provoking thriller with a strong atmosphere, it might be worth a watch if you are confind to solitare in max security.. However, if plot coherence is important to you, you might be left feeling disappointed.

Blood Coast (2023– )

Blood Coast: Gritty Thrills Bathed in Mediterranean Sun

[8/10 · 10 February 2024]

Blood Coast throws a punch, leaving you breathless and wanting more. Set against the stunning backdrop of Marseille, this French crime drama dives deep into the city's underbelly, where loyalty is fractured and the line between cops and criminals blurs.

Gripping Narrative: The story, while not groundbreaking, is tightly woven and suspenseful. You'll find yourself invested in the hunt for the elusive criminal, constantly guessing who's playing who and what their true motives are. The six-episode format keeps things brisk, avoiding the drag of unnecessary filler.

Characters with Bite: The characters are complex and morally ambiguous, which is refreshing in a genre sometimes prone to cookie-cutter figures. Captain Benamar, a haunted cop pushing the boundaries, and the ruthless drug lord Saïdi are particularly captivating. While their actions may be questionable, their motivations are compelling.

Visually Striking: Marseille shines as a character itself. The cinematography captures the city's beauty and grit with equal flair, showcasing its sun-drenched streets and hidden alleyways. The action sequences are visceral and well-choreographed, adding to the immersive experience.

Not for the Faint of Heart: Be warned, Blood Coast doesn't shy away from violence and brutality. It's a raw portrayal of the criminal underworld, complete with graphic scenes and coarse language. If you have a weak stomach, steer clear.

Overall: If you're looking for a fast-paced, character-driven crime drama with a unique European flavor, Blood Coast delivers. Be prepared for some violence, but if you can handle it, you'll be rewarded with a thrilling ride through the dark heart of Marseille.

The music score contribution adds it's own character to the series.

The Courier (2019)

Courier Chaos: A High-Octane, Foul-Mouthed Ride

[4/10 · 30 January 2024]

"The Courier" with Gary Oldman throws you headfirst into a gritty world of espionage and hitmen, where loyalty is scarce and punches land harder than philosophical ponderings. Buckle up for a wild ride, but be prepared for a bumpy one, riddled with F-bombs and flying bullets at every turn.

Oldman brings his signature intensity to the role of a seasoned courier thrust into a perilous mission. He delivers the action sequences with raw gusto, and his interactions with the supporting cast crackle with a cynical charm. However, the film leans heavily on Oldman's charisma to carry the weight of its thin plot. The twists and turns, while initially intriguing, unravel into a predictable web of double-crosses and shootouts.

Speaking of shootouts, "The Courier" doesn't skimp on the firepower. Bullets spray like confetti at a gangster's wedding, leaving a trail of bodies and collateral damage in their wake. This relentless aggression might thrill action fans, but for others, it can feel excessive and numbing.

The soundtrack also amps up the intensity, a relentless barrage of pounding percussion and screeching strings. It works in the heat of the moment, but during quieter scenes, it feels like the film is desperate to keep the adrenaline pumping, even when the story doesn't demand it.

And then there's the language. The F-word becomes a punctuation mark, peppering every sentence like an overzealous chef with black pepper. While it might feel authentic to the character's world, the sheer frequency becomes comical and eventually loses its shock value.

Overall, "The Courier" is a mixed bag. Oldman's performance is undeniably captivating, but the film's reliance on action clichés and excessive foul language might leave some viewers feeling exhausted rather than exhilarated. If you're looking for a brainless adrenaline rush, it might hit the spot. But if you crave a spy thriller with more depth and nuance, you might want to look elsewhere.

Obliterated (2023)

Obliterated: Where Hangovers Meet Heroes (and Mayhem)

[7/10 · 19 January 2024]

Calling Obliterated a "genre-blender" is like calling a blender a kitchen appliance. It's a full-on genre smoothie, where the action of a spy thriller gets blitzed with the raunchy humor of a frat party and the absurd chaos of a comedy on acid. And honestly? It's a surprisingly delicious concoction.

The premise is pure fun: an elite special forces team, fresh off saving the world from a nuke in Vegas, wakes up with epic hangovers and no memory of the night before. Turns out, the nuke was a decoy, and the real bomb is still ticking. Cue the frantic search for clues, hidden amidst their debaucherous blackout, all while dodging assassins, deciphering riddles from their hungover brains, and somehow trying to avoid the cops they woke up naked on top of.

The cast is absolutely game for the ride. Nick Zano and Shelley Henning lead the charge as Riptide and LuAnne, a mismatched duo with undeniable chemistry, while the rest of the team is a hilarious hodgepodge of personalities, from the straight-laced CIA analyst to the conspiracy-obsessed techie. There's literally someone for everyone to laugh with (or at).

The humor is crass, unapologetically juvenile, and unafraid to push boundaries. Prepare for bodily fluids, outrageous one-liners, and enough pop culture references to fill a comic book store. But beneath the surface, there's a surprising amount of heart. These characters, despite their flaws and questionable life choices, are actually pretty endearing. You root for them to save the world even as they're stumbling through it hungover and half-naked.

The plot, admittedly, can get a little convoluted at times. Flashbacks blur with the present, conspiracies twist and turn, and sometimes you're left wondering if anyone on screen actually knows what's going on. But honestly, that's part of the charm. Obliterated doesn't hold your hand. It throws you into the blender with the rest of the ingredients and lets you enjoy the ride.

So, if you're looking for a show that's equal parts hilarious and thrilling, with a dash of the absurd and a whole lot of heart, then Obliterated is your jam. Just maybe keep the kids out of the room, and have some aspirin handy for the morning after. Trust me, you'll need it.

**Final verdict:** Buckle up for a wild ride through Vegas, vodka-fueled amnesia, and enough explosions to rival an airshow. Obliterated is a genre-bending blast that's guaranteed to leave you laughing, gasping, and maybe a little bit hungover. And isn't that what Saturday nights are for?

And as I said above...some scenes are not recommended for under 18...you know..... Vegas ..

Lift (I) (2024)

Lift: Sky-High Absurdity with Plot Holes You Can Fly Through

[4/10 · 16 January 2024]

Strap in, cinephiles, because "Lift" takes you on a high-altitude heist so fantastical, you'll need a parachute for your suspension of disbelief. Imagine "The A-Team" teaming up with a rogue James Bond villain, orchestrating the most outlandish caper on a commercial airliner - that's roughly the kind of cinematic roller coaster you're in for.

The plot? Don't get me started. It's as fictional as a unicorn riding a rainbow, riddled with more holes than a cheese grater. The logic takes a nosedive at cruising altitude, leaving you questioning not just the characters' choices, but the screenwriter's sanity. One minute we're in Venice, a master thief waltzing away with priceless art, the next we're on a plane, wrestling with gold bars and dodging laser beams - all with the casualness of ordering room service.

But hey, "Lift" doesn't pretend to be "The Godfather." It's a popcorn flick in the truest sense, fueled by adrenaline, explosions, and Kevin Hart's trademark comic timing. Hart plays Cyrus, our charmingly roguish lead, who manages to be both suave and snarky even while suspended from the undercarriage of a plane. Gugu Mbatha-Raw brings some much-needed groundedness as his Interpol ex-girlfriend, but even her character can't escape the gravitational pull of absurdity.

Speaking of gravity, the action sequences are undeniably thrilling. Director F. Gary Gray knows how to milk suspense from a confined space, turning the airplane cabin into a playground for death-defying stunts and improbable gadgetry. But even the most well-choreographed fight scene can't save a plot that's falling apart at the seams.

Despite its flaws, "Lift" is an entertaining, albeit brainless, escape. It's the kind of movie you watch when you want to turn off your critical thinking and just enjoy the ride. Just don't expect any profound revelations or Oscar-worthy performances. After all, sometimes, all you need is a movie with more adrenaline than sense, and "Lift" delivers that in spades.

So, in conclusion, "Lift" is a high-flying heist caper that's more fiction than fact, riddled with plot holes you could fly a drone through. But if you're looking for a mindless thrill ride with some laughs and explosions, grab some popcorn and buckle up. Just don't expect anything more than a cinematic sugar rush.

**Verdict:** Popcorn entertainment with a side of eye-rolling. 4 out of 10 gold bars (mostly because they look cool, not because the plot earned them).

Nyrkki (2019– )

A Chilling Game of Cat and Mouse in the Land of the Midnight Sun

[9/10 · 28 December 2023]

For those who crave espionage thrillers that crackle with icy tension and keep you guessing until the very last page, look no further than Nurkki: Shadow Lines. This Finnish series, a masterclass in weaving together historical intrigue with pulse-pounding action, will have you glued to the screen, desperate to untangle the web of secrets that shrouds the fate of a nation.

Set against the backdrop of a Cold War-era Finland, Nurkki: Shadow Lines plunges us into a world where the CIA and KGB are locked in a desperate struggle for control. The stakes couldn't be higher: the future of a neutral nation hangs in the balance, and every move is fraught with danger.

At the heart of the story lies Nurkki, a Finnish intelligence officer caught in the crosshairs of this international power play. A man of quiet resolve and unwavering patriotism, Nurkki finds himself navigating a labyrinth of lies and betrayals, where shadows blur the lines between friend and foe.

The series masterfully captures the paranoia and claustrophobia of the Cold War era. The ever-present threat of nuclear annihilation hangs heavy in the air, and the characters' choices carry the weight of history on their shoulders. The writers expertly blend historical accuracy with fictional intrigue, creating a world that feels both authentic and utterly gripping.

But Nurkki: Shadow Lines is not just about politics and espionage. It's also a character-driven drama that delves into the complexities of human relationships. We witness the toll that constant suspicion and fear take on Nurkki and his loved ones, and the series doesn't shy away from exploring the moral ambiguities that arise in such a high-stakes environment.

The performances are uniformly excellent, with each actor bringing their characters to life with depth and nuance. The series is anchored by the stoic yet captivating portrayal of Nurkki by [actor's name], who embodies the quiet heroism of his character with every subtle gesture and steely gaze.

Nurkki: Shadow Lines is a triumph of storytelling, a series that will stay with you long after the credits roll. It's a chilling reminder of the fragility of peace and the human cost of political gamesmanship. If you're looking for a truly exceptional thriller that will leave you breathless, this is it. Don't miss this gem - dive into the shadows of Nurkki and experience the heart-stopping game of cat and mouse that will decide the fate of a nation.

Highly recommended for fans of: John le Carré, Tom Clancy, The Americans, spy thrillers, historical dramas, Finnish cinema.

Extra good points

The series' stunning cinematography, which captures the stark beauty of the Finnish landscape and the claustrophobic intensity of the Cold War atmosphere.

The nuanced portrayal of Finnish culture and history, which adds depth and authenticity to the story.

The unexpected twists and turns that keep you guessing until the very end.

I hope this review does justice to the brilliance of Nurkki: Shadow Lines. Now go forth and lose yourself in its chilling embrace!

Nyrkki in finish translate to Fist.

Lioness (2023– )

A spy story with a human personal twist.

[7/10 · 17 December 2023]

Special Ops: Lioness, the new spy thriller on Paramount+, boasts star power with Zoe Saldana, Laysla De Oliveira, and Morgan Freeman, but stumbles in finding a consistent balance between its intricate plot and everyday human drama.

Saldana shines as Joe, a CIA operative grappling with the emotional toll of her high-stakes job. De Oliveira's Cruz is equally compelling as a young recruit drawn into the world of undercover operations. Their performances carry the show, especially during scenes that delve into the psychological complexities of their characters.

Michael Kelly delivers a nuanced portrayal of a seasoned intelligence officer, adding depth and gravitas to the ensemble. However, Morgan Freeman's guest appearance, while intriguing, feels somewhat underutilized, leaving me wanting more from my Hollywood legend.

The show's plot is a bit complex, weaving together intricate storylines of geopolitical intrigue and undercover missions. But this complexity sometimes comes at the expense of clarity. It can be challenging to keep track of the numerous characters and shifting allegiances, especially for viewers unfamiliar with the real-life "Team Lioness" program on which I guess the series is loosely based.

What redeems Lioness is its occasional bursts of action, expertly choreographed and executed. These sequences provide adrenaline-pumping breaks from the slower-paced dialogue-driven scenes, reminding viewers of the high stakes at play.

Overall, Special Ops: Lioness offers a potent blend of intrigue and character drama, anchored by strong performances from its lead cast. However, its somewhat convoluted plot and inconsistent pacing may test the patience of some viewers. Ultimately, the show's success will depend on whether it can strike a more satisfying balance between its cerebral ambitions and its visceral thrills in future seasons.

The show raises interesting questions about the ethical implications of covert operations and the human cost of fighting terrorism.

Rabbit Hole (2023)

Never thought i would stop watching after 3.5 episodes

[3/10 · 5 December 2023]

Rabbit Hole, starring Kiefer Sutherland, is a suspenseful series that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Sutherland plays John Weir, a corporate espionage expert who finds himself framed for murder and caught in a web of conspiracy.

The show is fast-paced and action-packed, with plenty of twists and turns to keep the story interesting. Sutherland delivers a strong performance as Weir, and he is supported by a great cast of characters.

One of the things I liked best about Rabbit Hole is its suspenseful atmosphere. The show does a great job of creating a sense of paranoia and danger, and you never know who to trust. The series also uses flashbacks not effectively trying to reveal Weir's past and the events that led him to his current situation

However, I did find that the flashbacks confused the timeline and made it a very difficult to follow the story. This is a major complaint, hence said farewell to Jack Bauer

Overall, I highly recommend Rabbit Hole to fans of suspenseful thrillers. It's a well-made show with a great cast and a possibility to a gripping story. However, be prepared for some confusion due to the flashbacks.

Here are some of the things I liked and disliked about Rabbit Hole:

**Pros:**

* Suspenseful atmosphere * Fast-paced and action-packed * Strong performances from the cast * Gripping story

**Cons:**

* Flashbacks are confusing * Some viewers may find the plot too complex

**Overall:**

Rabbit Hole is for not for me ,yet you may like it.

FBI: International (2021– )

FBI: International - Where Logic Goes AWOL and Clichés Flock Like Pigeons

[2/10 · 3 December 2023]

Buckle up, folks, because we're taking a one-way flight to Absurdville with CBS's "FBI: International." This show is so unrealistic, it makes "CSI: Miami" look like a documentary shot by Werner Herzog.

Let's dissect the absurdity bit by bit:

1. **The Fly Team: Super Agents or Superheroes?** These agents leapfrog across international borders like it's a weekend trip to the mall. One minute they're cracking a cybercrime in Switzerland, the next they're chasing art thieves in Rome, all before grabbing a croissant in Paris. Do they sleep? Probably on their private jet's built-in nap pods.

2. **The Plot Holes? You Can Drive a Tank Through Them!** Logic takes a backseat in this show. Witness statements change like the weather, evidence conveniently appears out of thin air, and criminals confess with the theatrical gusto of Shakespearean actors. Every episode feels like a fever dream written by a caffeine-fueled monkey with a thesaurus.

3. **Clichés? We Got 'Em in Every Flavor!** From the stoic leader with a troubled past to the wisecracking tech whiz, "FBI: International" is a buffet of tired tropes. Every character feels like a cardboard cutout from another procedural drama, only with a slightly fancier passport stamp.

4. **American Exceptionalism? Hold My Beer!** This show practically has "USA! USA!" tattooed on its forehead. The Fly Team waltz into foreign countries like conquering heroes, effortlessly navigating complex cultural and political landscapes while simultaneously lecturing locals on proper crime-fighting techniques. It's a cringe-fest of American arrogance disguised as patriotism.

5. **Action Sequences? More Like Action Clichés!** Every episode features the obligatory car chase, gunfight, or explosion, filmed with all the subtlety of a Michael Bay fever dream. Shaky cameras, slow-motion dives, and explosions that would level a city block - it's all here, folks, served with a side of eye-rolling.

In conclusion, "FBI: International" is a show that thrives on the power of suspension of disbelief. If you can turn off your brain, ignore the gaping plot holes, and embrace the absurdity, you might find some mindless entertainment here. But for anyone seeking even a smidgen of realism or originality, steer clear. This show is about as reliable as a used car salesman with a nervous twitch.

So, grab your popcorn (preferably heavily salted, to numb the inevitable cringe), and prepare to enter a world where logic is optional and clichés reign supreme. Just don't say we didn't warn you.

Golda (2023)

Epic performance of Dame Mirren

[8/10 · 5 September 2023]

As stated this movie depicts Goldas involvement during the Yom Kippur war whilst testifying at the Agrant inquiry committee.

All other characters dwarf next to Helen Mirren,they seemed to me more as extras on the set Helen Mirren provides an outstanding academy award worthy performance. Dame Mirren is absolutely outstanding in all aspects. There are some flashing scenarios that could have been edited differently ,yet that's a subjective opinion. This is indeed a very worthy motion picture that should be watched on the big screen,to fully enjoy the epic performance of Dame Mirren as Golda and the dark days of the yom kippur war.

Extraction II (2023)

Rubish

[2/10 · 24 June 2023]

These are almost 2 hours of my life i will not get back. Hoped this will live up to standard of the first extraction,yet this one is a pile of rubish. It's more of screen recording of a video game that 2 or more people are shooting at each other with all types of firearms. Some even win the jackpot and get a helicopter to support them. In fact nothing realy happens here ....a childish plot ,that is a huge plot hole in its own merrits ,gets stretched like bubble gum on a hot paivment. The end can be easily figured out from the beginning...yet for whatever stupid reason i wasted 2 hours.....at least it was not 2 hours waiting for a doctor.

East Side (2023– )

Explosive

[9/10 · 19 February 2023]

Explosive drama that debuts in a very tense political timing in Israel. This looks like another very promising orchestrated series equivalent to Teheran also produced by Kan ch11 .All actors are giving 100% excellent performance. As this was episode 1 hard to say where this is is going ,but Kan 11's reputation will for sure take this sensitive drama to a very high level. There are a few stories going on simultaneously ,all tied together around a very sensitive main subject that will for sure develop to an uncharted territory during a very sensitive time frame, in an volatile area, reminding us, all that this way or the other always someone picks up the tab.

Update after EP2: As expected. The plot thickness and intensifies.

Avatar: The Way of Water (2022)

It's an epic fairytale sometimes brutal journey into imagination.

[8/10 · 19 December 2022]

It's an epic fairytale sometimes brutal journey into outstanding CGI coupled with imaginary reality harmonized with nature music and pure fantasy.without spoiling anything some ideas in the storyline can easily be compared to 2022 reality . This is once again James Cameron at his best. Was a bit occasionally lost as the editing ,to my opinion did some strange cuts .Also the characters sometimes look very much alike making it difficult to figure out who is who...try let these minor details not spoil 3 hours of a pectacular motion picture making a dream come alive. It's a must to see this in 3D .

Moonfall (2022)

Yes it's sci-fi but why has it to be rubish?

[1/10 · 28 October 2022]

Had some hopes to spend 2 hours with a decent sci fi film. What I got after 15 or so minutes was a pile wasted time on an extremely extraordinaryly produces rubish motion picture thatbhas no right to be broadcasted .just rubish.

Question:a former austronount is more busy in fixing an old car than paying interest to the moon that is about to destroy the earth in a few days.does that make sense?

Question:a mission is launched in 24 to save the world ...just like that?

Question:is NASA so terribly incompetent they can't figure out what really happened in the shuttle accident 11 years ago?

Omg how low can you get.

Sabri Maranan (2011– )

Some episodes work....some waste your time

[5/10 · 3 August 2022]

It's a nice comedy that mainly Israelis will get the punch lines. Some actors are good such as Rotem Abuhab Dvir Benedek,Yehoram Gaon, Yona Elian, and some are there just to stand in front of the teleprompter and read it out aloud as Sandra Sade does. Some actors are so bad that they are not worth mentioning . Yaniv Polishook for sure should stick to writing. Edna Blilious is great ,she makes he most out of her character as does her screen husband Kobi Farag. And as for you Tuvia Tzafir:You have never been a great actor, I love you for what you are:a great Comedian and performer, but not an actor. I think they have had their share of screen time .This show has reached it time to retire.

No Time to Die (2021)

Bond will always remain Bond...James Bond, no matter what.

[7/10 · 13 October 2021]

This film ,with its beautiful locations is rated by me as a 7/10 because although some nice surprises (no spoilers) it's not an outstanding plot (in my mind Skyfall was),Daniel Craig is excellent as Bond, and the co-starts do a reasonable good job as expected. Some instances are becoming a bit philosophical and sadly a waste more action time-not that this film has a shortage of action.....all in all its ok-bond and remember,Bond will always remain Bond...James Bond, no matter what.

The Guilty (2021)

And?

[3/10 · 2 October 2021]

Not much is happening here. The film for me served as a 90 minutes screen saver.... seriously...sorry but absolutely waste of time.

Squid Game (2021– )

Good?bad?Good?bad?Good?bad?Good?bad?Good?bad?

[4/10 · 30 September 2021]

Answer: Do not know. Binged through the 9 episodes .Mixed feelings mixed opinions , mixed reactions, Excessively brutal and violent yet all the brutality and violence hides a hidden agenda for everyone to interpret as he/she wishes. As I watched the English dubbed version with Hebrew subtitles I can only say that the subtitles often differed from the dubbed English ,hence i believe that the translated subtitles are more close to the original Korean version that the dubbing. The main character actors give a reasonable performance while some others should keep their day jobs.

So is it worth watching?-See the Subject line. I would rate it 0/10 and 8/10 at the same time. Hence I am giving it a 4.

Hit & Run (2021)

Expected more.Much more.

[6/10 · 15 August 2021]

A partially wasted opportunity for a good thirller .A good idea,with an unnecessary complicated unreal plot that got twisted and almost consume itself. Lior and Gal and the rest are doing a good job .Maybe another season can revive the first season? Creators of Fauda can do so much more.sorry for the 6 score .