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The Diplomat (2023)
24 meets Madame Secretary
This series with some seriously under-rated actors has some well-written story lines, engages you with episode-ending cliff-hangers, and possesses decent production values. There is nothing new here but the banter between characters in an otherwise very serious, albeit over-the-top political drama is refreshing. (Consider this: Did you ever hear a joke in 24?) Keri Russell as the female lead holds her own as the career diplomat reassigned to the easy post in London instead of Kabul, a performance akin to Tea Lenoi's masterful role in Madame Secretary. Oddly, the great English actor Rufus Sewell is cast as her American husband. Granted, he has become rather adept at mastering an American accent, but why not cast him as a Brit in this London-based series of political intrigue? Ato Essandoh shines as a no-nonsense go-to chief of staff to Russell, the new ambassador; his eyebrow-raising in response to Russell's off-the-books behavior tells volumes.
Unfortunately, Netflix has once again decided that the F word needs to be in all its programs. The senseless, relentless profanity does nothing but insult its audience. We are not stupid. Remove the profanity and my rating goes up to 10.
The Woman King (2022)
Viola is the Queen
Having "discovered" the talented Viola Davis in the brilliant Tom Selleck Jesse Stone series, I find that she has continued to expand her range of roles in an impressive fashion. What a tremendous actress she is. As an African queen in this film, she makes me want to sign up to support her and go to war for her. The film itself is decently done but could have used some better supporting characters and more more recognizable actors. The European characters are rather shallow and there is some serious miscasting. The story is an important one if true but there is no record of this as it being accurate. Still, I would follow Viola to the the end of the earth. She rocks!
All American (2018)
Young ensemble cast with a message
This is an engaging series that I was lucky to stumble across on the Netflix platform. After the first few episodes, I was hooked.
During these troubling times of racial tension, this series portraying real-life flawed characters is inspiring on so many levels. It would be interesting to learn about the true-life inspiration for the series. I would normally not be interested in a sports series (and Netflix needs to adjust its algorithms as that is not my focus) but I sought out the series because of Taye Diggs, who is an extraordinary actor. He once again proves that he is an A-list actor. How can he not be nominated for an Emmy?
Watching this series is entertaining and enlightening.
Broken (2017)
Sean Bean's best
A dreary tale of the complexities of Catholicism in the modern world. Realistic and engaging stories about the not-so rich and famous. Bean once again proves to be the most brilliant actor of his generation.
Da Vinci's Inquest (1998)
Authentic Canadian drama
Based on true events, Da Vinci's Inquest portrays the troubled life of Vancouver coroner Dominic Da Vinci (brilliantly portrayed by Nichols Campbell) as he weaves his way through the politics and compromises needed to make a difference while dealing with personal demons, in-your-face adversaries, and the subtle erosive effect of societal apathy. With a brilliant supporting cast including the late great Donnelly Rhodes and Ian Tracey, developer Chris Haddock sets a high standard for authentic location-specific story-telling. Cinematographer David Frazee's work here is not to be overlooked; look to him to do more directing and producing in the future.
Republic of Doyle (2010)
Newfoundland's answer to Magnum PI
Multi-talented Newfoundland native Alan Hawco's fast-paced, fun, crime-driven drama is Canada's answer to Magnum PI, with palm trees replaced by drizzle and snow and Honolulu replaced by St Johns. Never taking itself too seriously (except toward later seasons), the series captures the seedy side of life in the Maritimes while showcasing some fine Canadian actors (e.g., Nicholas Campbell guest stars) and scenery, highlighting friendship and camaraderie, and realistically addressing political corruption and overly ambitious real-estate development. Many thanks to Netflix for allowing this excellent series to be shown in the USA. Keep an eye on Alan Hawco's future activities.
Intelligence (2005)
Canadian drama at its best
Having been a huge fan of the perfectly executed Da Vinci's Inquest, I was thrilled to see the under-rated uber-actor Ian Tracey cast as the erst-while villain in this thoughtful look at Canadian intelligence services without the usual slams at their US counterparts. Pivotal roles played by Lea Scott and the ever-creepy Matt Frewer add to this authentic portrayal of the challenges facing a small nation intent on protecting its population while not being swept into just following the US-dictated status quo. This smart, thought-provoking, and relevant drama entertains and enlightens while constantly challenging the viewer to judge which are really the bad guys.