All Forms of Art

  10 Inch Hero is a charming mix of comedy and drama that celebrates the value of friendship, love, and being unapologetically yourself. Set in a cozy sandwich shop, the film introduces us to a quirky cast of characters, each navigating their own challenges and desires.  From romantic pursuits to personal growth, every storyline is woven with warmth and humor, creating a delightful viewing experience.  It’s not just a movie about relationships; it’s about finding where you belong. Discovering Gems I stumbled across this film while exploring Jensen Ackles' work, and his role as Priestly is a standout. His comic timing and quirky persona bring both hilarity and heart to the film.  Whenever I appreciate an actor, writer, or director, I love diving into their other projects, and this movie was an absolute treat. The Beauty in Simplicity What makes 10 Inch Hero truly special is its simplicity. It doesn't try to be overly dramatic or groundbreaking but excels in deliveri...

  Mad Men is a masterpiece of television that blends sharp storytelling with striking period detail, offering a reflective glimpse into the 1960s.  The series follows Don Draper and the high-stakes world of Madison Avenue advertising, all while painting a vivid picture of the era's societal norms, especially the rampant sexism and rigid gender roles.  It's both mesmerizing and infuriating, particularly in its honest depiction of how women were treated. Strong Emotions The show’s brilliance lies in its ability to evoke strong emotions—its subtlety, exceptional writing, and rich characters draw you into a world that feels both foreign and disturbingly recent.  The meticulously crafted period aesthetics are complemented by historical undercurrents, from civil rights to cultural shifts, which remain integral yet never overshadow the deeply personal dramas of the characters. Wait For the Impact Mad Men doesn’t rely on flashy plot twists; instead, it uses nuanced storyte...

  Netflix 's Kaos is one of those shows that grabs your attention from the start and keeps you hooked until the very end.  What makes it stand out is how different it feels compared to other series. The show dives into mythology, but not the kind we're used to seeing — no angels, demons, or anything from the usual Christian narratives. Instead, Kaos taps into ancient Greek myths, giving it a fresh and unique vibe we rarely see on TV. That's what I loved the most: it felt like something new and exciting in a world of often predictable shows. You’ll not be waiting for it The best part is that the story is unpredictable. It is full of twists and turns, and the ending leaves you on the edge of your seat.  It wraps up well but still keeps you wondering what's next. It does a great job of teasing a possible second season, which makes me really excited for more. Although it's unclear if there will be a next season just yet, the ending definitely opens the door for one, an...

  Young Sheldon is a delightful surprise, blending humor, heart, and a touch of nostalgia. As a prequel to The Big Bang Theory , the show offers insight into the childhood of Sheldon Cooper, one of the most iconic characters in modern TV.  A Show That Grows Beyond Sheldon While you may start watching due to curiosity about Sheldon's early years, it soon becomes clear that this is not just about his childhood. The show includes an incredible variety of characters with their own charm and depth. Mary (Sheldon's religious yet compassionate mother), George (his often misunderstood father), and his siblings, Missy and Georgie, are all given their own moments to shine.  The cast and their chemistry make this show stand out. You start to care about each character's struggles and triumphs. This show quickly stands on its own as a heartfelt, family-driven sitcom. Especially in its last seasons, the show becomes a touching portrayal of small-town life, family dynamics, and persona...

  After being thoroughly impressed by Antony Starr's performance as the villain Homelander in The Boys , I decided to dive into his earlier work in Banshee . To say I was pleasantly surprised would be an understatement. This show is nothing short of a hidden gem that grips you from the very first episode and refuses to let go. The “Good” Villain At the heart of Banshee is Antony Starr, whose portrayal of the mysterious ex-con posing as the town's sheriff is nothing short of mesmerizing. Starr brings an incredible depth to his character, Lucas Hood, who is as complex as he is captivating.  On the surface, Hood is a rough, violent man with a past steeped in crime, but as the series unfolds, we see the many layers that make up his character. He's haunted by his past and driven by a sense of justice that often puts him at odds with the law. Yet, despite his flaws, he has a surprising capacity for loyalty and love. Mesmerizing Performances Starr's performance is the linchp...

  As a fan of the original Game of Thrones , I approached the second season of House of the Dragon with high hopes. Unfortunately, I found it a bit boring compared to its predecessor.  The intricate political drama and the rich character development that made Game of Thrones a global phenomenon seem to be lacking here. Still, the show features some compelling characters who hold my interest. Daemon Targaryen Daemon Targaryen remains one of the most intriguing characters in the series. Although his arc in this season isn't as strong as before, he still commands the screen with his charisma and unpredictability.  Daemon's complex personality, oscillating between villainy and heroism, keeps viewers guessing his true intentions. His relationship with Rhaenyra and his struggle for power add depth to his character. He is, no doubt, a central figure in the unfolding drama. Aemond Targaryen Aemond steps into the spotlight in the second season, bringing a new level of intensity ...

  The Boys ' fans eagerly anticipated this new season and all the craziness it would bring. As happens often, when you have too high expectations, some are seriously disappointed. It's not that the show didn't deliver what it promised. The audience had too much time to create their own theories and guess situations, and some of them… were extremely defrauded. Kimiko and Frenchy One of the most criticized situations in the first three episodes was Frenchy's relationship with a man. Most fans imagined that he would end up in a romantic relationship with Kimiko. Sure, they ignored previous mentions of his bisexuality or that Kimiko rejected him. Honestly, I wanted them to be together, but the whole point of this show is to drive us insane with all sorts of unexpected situations. Starlight People can't stop commenting on Erin Moriarty's appearance. Yes, she looks very different, but so does Laz Alonso (MM), and it's okay. Why so much fuss (and critics) about her...

  The third season of Bridgerton has received mixed reviews from critics and fans. Some are not as happy as they were with the first two seasons, while others were positively surprised. I belong to the second group. I thought the second season was just "one more" and that the show would probably get too repetitive. Yet, the first four episodes of the new season have revived some of my interest. Great Performance from Nicola Coughlan Nicola Coughlan , our sweet Penelope Featherington, gave us a great performance. A former secondary character, Nicola brought depth and charm to the role. She made her transition from a supporting role to the main protagonist quite successful.  Now, she and Colin finally have the place they deserve—the central romance of the story. Instead of bringing a new character to the spotlight, the writers gave more screen time to these two well-known (and beloved) characters. Sure, it might not have the steamy excitement of previous seasons, but the relat...

  A Nearly Normal Family is a Netflix Swedish drama that explores the complexities of familial bonds and moral dilemmas.  From the first episode, the show captivates with its intricate story and well-crafted characters. It is about this seemingly perfect family whose world is turned upside down when their daughter becomes a murder suspect.  This gripping premise sets the stage for a series that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. It questions the nature of truth, loyalty, and justice. Brilliant Performances of Complex Characters The cast delivers stellar performances. Each actor brings a unique depth to their roles.  The parents are characters with a profound emotional range. They struggle between protecting their daughter and confronting the possibility of her guilt. The daughter is both vulnerable and enigmatic. She adds a layer of suspense that drives the series forward.  The dynamic between the family members reaches tremendous authenticity. You can'...

  I just finished the Netflix documentary Bad Surgeon: Love Under the Knife , and I must say: it's shocking! In theory, we know everyone can be bad, even our doctors, but watching it is quite different. The documentary is about the world-renowned surgeon Paolo Macchiarini. He claimed to cure patients by inserting a plastic trachea into them. This plastic tube would be bathed in stem cells and, in theory, become a living organ. The reality was quite different, and what's most scary is how the medical community itself couldn't spot him before. He literally was able to do whatever he wanted, whenever he wanted, with no one to stop him. Bad Surgeon, Bad Person His total disregard for human life, particularly the life of his patients, gives you the chills, but he wasn't a better person, personally speaking. He had a family in Barcelona; he seduced a reporter to get good publicity and a dead patient's mother to avoid (or try to avoid) further complications in court. They...

  This Netflix documentary explores the fascinating world of gut health and its impact on our well-being. Renowned gut specialist Dr. Giulia Enders MD, collaborates with neuropsychology, epidemiology, neuroscience, and microbial ecology experts. Dr. Enders guides us into the intricate relationship between dietary choices, gut health, and brain function.  The Gut’s Role The film explains how our gut works and emphasizes the importance of a diverse diet. Using cute and colorful animations, it clarifies how the microbiome develops after birth.  Dr. Enders reminds us that our gut is flexible and changes based on our eating. A diversified diet is vital to nourish the microbial community within our gut.  Missing Expertise  Unfortunately, the documentary lacks input from registered dietitian nutritionists. While culinary expertise is valuable, specialized food and dietary science professionals are essential.  A registered dietitian could have provided personalize...

  Netflix 's Baby Reindeer takes viewers on an unsettling journey.  The show revolves around the unstable and frightening Martha. Its narrative is full of creepiness and psychological disturbance.  Psychological Journey Baby Reindeer explores the protagonist's confusion and low self-esteem. They act as catalysts for the bizarre and terrifying situations he finds himself in.  The series does an excellent job of it. It portrays perfectly how fragile self-worth can lead to inexplicable choices and entanglements. Dark Reality The depiction of abuse in Baby Reindeer is both raw and unflinching. It sheds light on a less commonly explored facet of this dark reality.  The series doesn't shy away from the complex dynamics of power and control. It forces the viewer to confront uncomfortable truths about manipulation and emotional torment. The human mind is not linear and Baby Reindeer shows it brilliantly. The fragmented and often shocking portrayal of the protagonist...

  Secrets of the Neanderthals is a Netflix documentary about our ancestors. It challenges your preconceptions about this ancient human species and introduces you to a different world. Kindness and caring The documentary is fascinating and introduces a new perspective about the Neanderthals. To this day, the word Neanderthal is used as offensive; it means that someone is not intelligent. Well, this documentary makes that assumption go away. Various evidence left behind by these humans shows that they weren’t simply brutes with no complex cognitive activity. In fact, they seemed to be caring to each other. They took care of their elders and sick or hurt members of the group. This is probably one of the most significant evidence of an organized civilization.  They even take care of their dead. The evidence shows that they have rituals to bury their loved ones who have died, which shows their ability to think about themselves and their place in the world. It raises questions Du...

  In the middle of Netflix originals, Bodies stands out as a captivating and clever show that makes it impossible for you to look away. Its intricate plot and enigmatic characters will keep you glued to the screen.  It has a grip on you From the very first episode, Bodies plunges viewers into a world of mystery and intrigue. Each twist and turn adds another layer to the story, making predicting what will happen next nearly impossible.  This unpredictability is part of what makes the show so addictive — you never know what's going to happen next, and you can't help but keep watching to find out. You should be patient While Bodies is undeniably gripping, it's also a show that requires patience and concentration. Its unconventional storytelling and complex narrative can be challenging to follow at times. It may take a few episodes to fully immerse yourself in the show's world. However, the payoff is well worth it for those willing to stick with it. How does it all conn...

  The Gotham Knights TV show offers a fresh perspective on the iconic Batman universe. It shifted the focus away from the Caped Crusader himself and onto his extended family and allies. This series explores the aftermath of Bruce Wayne's supposed death and the impact it has on those closest to him. Unfortunately, it did not convince me. Exploring New Dynamics Gotham Knights promises to breathe new life into the Batman universe. The show explores uncharted territory and gives lesser-known characters a chance to shine. However, this fresh take doesn't seem to resonate with the audience. It boasts an ensemble cast of intriguing characters with unique backstories and connections. This could be refreshing, but the acting could be better. It's Not For Everyone   While Gotham Knights has garnered praise for its darker tone and exploration of character dynamics, it has also faced criticism. Its writing, acting, and departure from established DC lore were poorly received. ...

  The Three-Body Problem on Netflix is a captivating and intriguing series that delves into the realms of science fiction with a unique and thought-provoking storyline. You can't let go from the first episode, even when you feel lost in the plot. Engaging and Intriguing The show excels in drawing viewers in with its complex narrative and engaging plot development.  From the beginning, the audience is immersed in a world of mystery, suspense, and scientific concepts that challenge the imagination. The intricate web of characters and events keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Flat Ending to Anticipate Season 2 After so much suspense and mystery, the season finale was a bit disappointing. Yet, it left us wanting more. I believe that for many viewers, it heightened the excitement for what lies ahead. With the foundation laid in the initial season, there is great potential for the upcoming season to address any lingering questions and provide, once more, good entertainment....

  As a fan of Erik Kripke's work, I had to take a look at this 2012 show, even though it has been canceled. I'm five episodes into Revolution , and I'm starting to suspect that the biggest problem was with the cast.  The Story  Revolution brings us an interesting post-apocalyptic story (without zombies - refreshing) that easily keeps us watching.   To be honest, in the beginning, it sends a Walking Dead vibe, but it not only has nothing to do with the zombie topic but can also take its own spot and interest.  It's well articulated and has mystery without exaggeration. We have some answers along the way, which avoids the strange feeling of having a lot of questions that seem to lead nowhere.  Billy Burke saves the day Billy's character is the best by far. He and Captain Neville hold the show on their shoulders and deserve recognition. Billy did a great job here, and he is the reason I'll keep watching.  I must confess, though, that the train scen...

  Hell Camp: Teen Nightmare takes you on an unsettling journey into the heart of, possibly, the worst summer camp you could imagine. Beneath the sun-dappled trees lies a sinister secret. The remote retreat promising personal growth, friendship, and adventure soon turns into a twisted world. There, the counselors wield psychological manipulation as deftly as they do canoes. The campers' laughter echoes against a backdrop of hidden horrors, and the tension builds relentlessly. What it is and what it should be Worried parents send their difficult teens to the camp, hoping the experience will help make them better people. Naturally, they could never know what was happening there. Yet, shouldn't the kidnapping to take the kids there be a red flag? The counselor and mentors are nothing but correctional officers with zero regard for the kids' well-being and safety. Some stuff is nearly unbelievable. As a viewer, you're witnessing an unfolding nightmare of all sorts of abuse. ...

  The Brothers Sun , now streaming on Netflix , is a refreshing departure from your typical family comedy. This action-comedy series stars the incomparable Michelle Yeoh as Eileen “Mama” Sun. She is a conflicted mother caught between her family’s dangerous profession and her desire to protect her naive youngest son.  Buckle up for a thrilling ride as secrets unravel, bullets fly, and unexpected alliances form. A Multilayered Family Dynamic At the heart of The Brothers Sun lies a family struggling to balance their criminal legacy with their individual aspirations. Charles Sun (played by Justin Chien) returns to Los Angeles to shield his mother and younger brother from a deadly threat. Eileen, the matriarch, has kept her other son, Bruce (Sam Song Li), blissfully unaware of their notorious Taiwan gangster lineage.  While Charles engages in globe-trotting fights, Bruce’s biggest concern is secretly spending his college tuition on improv classes. The clash between their worl...

  I recently finished the first season of Never Have I Ever , and I must say, I was thoroughly captivated. This Netflix series, created by Mindy Kaling and Lang Fisher, strikes a delightful balance between humor, relatability, and emotional depth. Breaking Free from Teen Show Clichés The show breaks free from the typical teen show tropes, offering viewers a refreshing departure from the mundane. Here's why it stands out: A Different Cultural Perspective. Our protagonist, Devi Vishwakumar (played brilliantly by Maitreyi Ramakrishnan), hails from an Indian-American background. Seeing a character from this cultural context take center stage is refreshing. While the show doesn't delve too deeply into the intricacies of her heritage (after all, it's still a teen drama), it provides us with a glimpse into her world. From family dynamics to cultural celebrations, we get a taste of the richness that defines her life. Imperfections Make for a Relatable Heroine Devi isn't your t...

  Big Sky takes viewers on a thrilling journey that is bound to keep you on the edge of your seat. The show weaves an intricate plot with surprises that make you guess at every turn. From the very first episode, it hooks you with its compelling narrative and doesn't let go. The element of surprise is one of the show's strongest assets, ensuring that you're always in for a wild ride. The characters add depth to the storyline, and their development keeps you invested in their fates. The cast delivers strong performances, bringing the characters to life with authenticity.  However, Big Sky doesn't shy away from exploring darker themes, sometimes disturbing. This willingness to tackle challenging subjects adds a gritty realism to the show, making it more than a typical crime drama. The overall pacing and suspenseful atmosphere make Big Sky a must-watch for those who enjoy a good mystery.  Big Sky is a captivating show that skillfully blends suspense, drama, and unexpect...

  The Crown, the Netflix show about the British royal family, ended, and the audience was slightly disappointed. I understand, but, for me, it was a good end. The writers had already said they wouldn't go much further. They wouldn't feel comfortable writing about the present. Obviously, we wanted more and to see some of the things that happened in the last few years, but it was understandable. They give us tips on what could happen, like the beginning of the Princes William and Harry falling down. Once you accept that they wouldn't write anything too close to the present, you can see that the end wasn't bad because it was a kind of happy ending. The show ended at a time when everything seemed to be going in the right direction.  This last season was a bit less focused on the Queen; it was about Diana's death, her children's grief, and a lot focused on Prince William. I'd like to have more of Prince Harry's screen time. However, while smaller, the focu...

  You Are What You Eat is a Netflix documentary about a study with twins to evaluate the impact of food on our bodies. I love these studies with twins. I find it fascinating. Two genetically identical people are the best way to understand how things affect our bodies. Vegan vs Omnivorous In this study, one of the twins would eat vegan food for eight weeks, while the other one would eat an omnivorous diet, yet the most healthy possible, and see how that impacts their bodies. They had different measurements like weight, blood pressure, and biological age of the cells… and they wanted to see what would happen in this short period of time. I'm not a defender of a vegan diet, nor do I think meat is bad for your health, yet, due to the conditions in which our food is created, I was expecting a better impact in the vegan diet twin from the beginning. It’s about everything The show is about the study itself, but it is also about showing what is wrong with our food. You see animal farms, ...

  The Watcher was an up-and-coming show on Netflix . It promised horror and suspense… and I was excited to watch it. It starts in a very typical way: a family moves to a new house, a great deal, and in a few days, they realize that it was too good to be true. Catchy The new house that isn’t as great as they thought can make you feel that it is a bit of a cliche, yet you are hooked in no time. The story starts very well, leaves you curious, and has the potential for binge-watching. The first episodes are terrific, and you get high expectations about the show. Too high… The problem is that the story is disturbing, as it should, but it doesn’t develop. Great Cast One of the best things about this show is the cast. They are excellent, credible, and engaging.  The one I didn’t think was a good character was the private detective, yet Noma Dumezweni’s performance was flawless.  Disappointment The Watcher starts well, with a good story, able to grab your attention, but then… i...

  Guillermo del Toro's Cabinet of Curiosities is indeed a very curious and good show, totally worth watching. Horror The show has eight episodes. They are like miniature horror movies, all with different takes on horror. Some are more intense than others, and it is difficult for me to pick a favorite. They are all very different and focus on specific nightmares, one could say. What's your worst nightmare? There are different types of horror, and they impact you differently as well. In this show, you have a good collection in terms of diversity. Sometimes, there are monsters; sometimes, the monster is yourself… I considered reviewing each episode, but it wouldn't be fair. The show is great the way it is, with every single story in it. Guillermo del Toro The show is good, and if you are a fan of horror stories and Del Toro's work, this Cabinet of Curiosities is definitely the right one for you.

  In Old Dads , humor takes the spotlight, making it a comedy that might make you cringe a bit here and there. The show hilariously points fingers at the absurdities of modern parenting, bringing to light the comical extremes it can reach. Am I old? If you've ever felt like you're suddenly part of the older generation, this comedy might hit close to home. It doesn't shy away from poking fun at the peculiarities of today's parenting practices. That left the woke generation feeling a tad uneasy. Sure, the characters are over-the-top stereotypes, but that's the point – it's a comedy! The goal isn't to portray real people but to magnify the ridiculousness of certain situations. It's all about exaggeration for the sake of laughter. No one is totally right (or wrong) The storyline takes an unexpected turn in the Vegas (ops, Palm Desert) scene, adding a touch of humanity to the characters. Let's say it wasn't their finniest moment.  While they had some...

  The Creator seemed to be an epic story about how humanity is more than being human, and the power of machines and how dangerous they can be… Does it sound good? Well, it did, at first. I was kind of excited to watch it, to tell you the truth, but it was so… boring.  Does this never end? It dragged on, and there were moments when I thought it would never end. Don't get me wrong, I like long movies as long as they are interesting, but The Creator put me to sleep. At some point, I was checking if it would take too much longer every five minutes. Always waiting for something really attention-grabbing to happen, but it never did.  Boring film with great performances The movie doesn't match the epic aura they tried to sell through the trailer. It felt just another sci-fi, with little to offer except perhaps the actors' performance. The brightest part of this movie was Madeleine Yuna Voyles ' acting skills, which were impressive. She brought some real talent to the table a...