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Reviews
Smagen af sult (2021)
Adored this
Completely enthralling film; both the double barrelled leads are amazing and it's so beautifully shot that I've rewatched it several times.
The premise seems simple; how can one strive for perfection in one area without it detrimentally changing the rest of your life. If it's a shared dream can balance be found elsewhere?
I loved it because of it's honesty; for the non-parents out there SPOILER ALERT having children changes your relationship especially if they sleep best in your bed. If you pour most of your energy into your work then can you also be a great spouse and parent? I fear the ending might not be the end but then presumably both these successful actors have relationships too and they must have to travel and sacrifice to do what they do so perhaps it is possible.
Hodejegerne (2011)
It looks brilliant but Viaplay won't show me
I really want to see this film.
So much that I signed up to a week's free trial on Viaplay.
What I saw was 40 minutes of Headhunter while I quietly questioned when the painting was going to be stolen and when was Nikolaj Coster Waldau going to turn up.
Finally, I worked out it's the wrong film Gromit.
Then I spent waaaaaaaaaaay tooooooooo loooooong trying to get Amazon or Viaplay to attach the right film to the thumbnail but it's almost impossible to explain to Amazon and they don't care because it's a free trial and it is COMPLETELY impossible to contact Viaplay because:
I'm in the wrong region
I don't have a user name
I'm not ringing Sweden
But perhaps someone will see this and sort it out???
3 ting (2017)
Fascinating
I really enjoyed this film. The acting was completely believable as were the motivations. A man who is intelligent and easily bored has lived his live for thrills and pleasure. On some level he understands that his life has been shallow and pointless so he reaches out for a woman he might/ possibly did love. She shouldn't want him but slides into old feelings when she believes they could have a life together but everything has to be easy for this man so he seeks an endless holiday with money and no consequences regardless of the impact it has on others.
I loved it because we've all met a version of this man; glib and charming full of himself and never really doubting he can get what he wants. Look at the facial expression at the end- not a heartbroken man- a toddler who hasn't got his way.
Wilderness (2023)
Sticks in the head
We both enjoyed this more after we finished it and I had to go and read the novel which was HUGELY different!
The acting was spot on (Ms Coleman is always worth a look and her male counterpart was absolutely convincing; which may explain the heckling directed at his character from our household).
It's interesting that the friends I encouraged to watch all loved it too but were far kinder to Will than we were. I was amazed that Liv resisted calling him out (in order to pursue her revenge) because I would have had to shove his laptop down his throat!
Definitely worth a watch or lots of watches if you get a bit hooked!
Bridgerton (2020)
Fabulous Fare
Firstly, I don't usually enjoy romance as a genre and regency romance is my least favourite type of romance.
Secondly, the actors who should have held me in their sway were largely unfamiliar so I wasn't coaxed in by a familiar face ...or any other part of anatomy.
Friends with a sense of humour and a sense of taste told me I would enjoy Bridgerton but it wasn't suitable to iron to (not an issue - I don't iron - I shake the clothes vigorously instead).
I adored the first series and then adored the second all the more- I'm working upto Queen Charlotte because I feel I've cried enough recently.
It's not a family watch but I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys being lifted out of our less than sumptuous world; the acting and scripts are spot on and the use of music inspired?
Stay Close (2021)
Mmmmmmm
Totally get the criticism re. The vile duo and when I first attempted to watch this I gave up because of their genuinely disturbing actions.
I am VERY late to the Richard Armitage fun fest- I didn't bother with the Robin Hood do over (what's the point- no Michael Praed, no clannad, not mystical at all), did watch the lord of the rings nonsense but the proper way (for a bet, drinking heavily whilst we all revoiced the characters) and couldn't understand the fuss when he turned up on the Vicar of Dibley... But then there was obsession - mmmmmm.
It's not a bad little mystery and the cast are brilliant...some more than others! 😊
Slow Horses (2022)
Absolutely fabulous!!
I swapped Happy Valley with a friend for this and we were both thrilled with the results. To add a tad more clarity to the previous statement, a friend watched and adored Slow Horses and told me I would love it and then checked to see if Happy Valley was too violent to watch or...the wrong kind of violent. I let her know it stayed on the right side for me and that I thought she'd really enjoy it too.
The upshot is- we both loved our swapped shows and rated them both 10/10. The acting was phenomenal, the characters riveting and the writing was second to none. If you enjoy an exciting, character and plot driven highly bingable spy thriller then tune in!!
North & South (2004)
So good they made it twice!
The first version of this had the wondrous Patrick Stewart in it but unfortunately that's where the good times end... This version, however, has the equally wondrous Richard Armitage in it and loads of other brilliant actors.
The writing (rewriting? Adapting? Screenplay!!!) is phenomenal and beautifully paced with the story essentially grabbing you by the throat and dragging you through four episodes before you have a chance to catch your wits.
Then, if you are at all like me, you go back and watch the last few minutes of the last episode OVER and OVER again.
Such awesome watching and free to stream if you are in the UK. LOVE IT!!!
The Stranger (2020)
Binged it!
This series just got under my skin and I consumed it at a frankly alarming speed.
I've watched other ministries by this author and I always start by predicting the outcome only to be proved wrong repeatedly; no change here then! I predicted the paternity of a key character incorrectly twice before twigging what was actually going on and I didn't see the end coming at all (which I loved by the way but also found quite sad).
The actors in this are all superb but I must confess to being particularly pleased to see Jennifer Saunders who is absolutely fabulous as one would expect!
Terrific watch - enjoy!
Obsession (2023)
Lust and betrayal!
It's called, 'Obsession' so it should come as no surprise that it's not really a love story instead it's a story about sexual obsession and desire. I didn't see, 'Damage' the film (itself based on a book) which inspired this but I'm sure it told the story in a very similar way.
The acting is spot on and I never doubted the characters or their needs. I felt quite angry at points because I struggle with the concept of infidelity (just leave) and those who can put aside other relationships/ care nothing about consequences/the feelings of others in order to have what they want. But I think some of feeling angry is what the writer would expect.
I've been quite shocked by the level of vitriol this series has attracted; the leads have both proved their acting chops repeatedly and I really couldn't see where the criticism of them was coming from. They both convince as people acting on want rather than sense. As for the sex scenes, they are, essentially... sexy and didn't feel false to me at all. I know some people get hung up on the intimacy coordinator's role but surely it's akin to a stunt coordinator or choreographer? I hate to think what 'Nobody' would have looked like without the former or 'Westside Story' without the latter.
Basically, if you fancy a dark tale of lust and betrayal then this will probably float your boat. If you don't then it's probably not for you!
The Runaway (2010)
Quite loved it!
It's definitely got a bit of a psychodrama feel to it; with relationships revisited and mistakes repeated in a depressingly believable way. The two leads are extremely watchable although neither are native Londoners which is slightly apparent in their not always convincing accents (I speak as the daughter and granddaughter of actual cockneys - one of whom had had received pronunciation beaten into her and one of whom actually sounded like a cockney and neither accent is quite right.)
I was totally fooled by Soho (where I spent a lot of my childhood and adolescence although in the 80s and 90s not 60s) - they totally got the feel right.
The supporting cast were fab as was the use of music
All in all it was worth a brief trip to Britbox to watch - it was no GBH or Slow Horses but I found it very entertaining so would recommend you give it a look!
Little Fish (2020)
Completely beautiful
First of all, yes there are some similarities with Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (also an excellent film) but please don't let that stop you from watching this brilliantly constructed piece of work.
I came for Jack O'Connell and stayed for Olivia Cooke; they are both completely believable and riveting in this ultimately uplifting film (well I found it uplifting because the final message seemed to me that love will find a way despite some of the earlier heart breaking scenes.)
This was so good that I found the short story it was based on and read it- for me the film did the unthinkable - improved on its source material. It's evident that Olivia Cooke, alongside Mattson Tomlin, had put a great deal of time, thought and love into crafting a script and story reflecting modern concerns and the timeless theme of love.
It was all done before the horrors of COVID (and if you think it didn't happen then walk along the embankment in London and try not to cry) so the similarities reflect a well thought out view of what a pandemic would be like in modern times rather than some weird prescience (apologies for potentially weird spelling - I just seem to have forgotten how to spell that one...)
It's a really good film, the sound track and filmography work beautifully with the themes and I'm going to have to buy it because I can't watch it often enough in 48 hours!
The North Water (2021)
Why you should only go on ATOL protected holidays
Now in many ways the ship in this series is superior to more modern cruise ships; nobody gets dysentry and at no point are they refused docking because of possible Covid infections. That said, the rape/ murder could be seen as an issue.
Also, the catering leaves a lot to be desired (I think 'pick your own' is perfectly acceptable on a break but 'club your own ' is a step too far.)
Finally, the accommodation provided ranged considerably- moving from a fairly acceptable single berth to a detached (rather squishy) polar bear back to a bijou cottage in the snow.
All in all considerably more enjoyable than most camping holidays.
'71 (2014)
Outstanding
Obviously, this is a film that is, on the surface, about 'the troubles' and speaking as a woman whose first doll was mistaken for an IRA bomb (it was delivered to dad's work in a brown package and nearly ended up in a bucket of water) this all seems frighteningly recent.
The acting is top knotch and the premise of a lone soldier stranded in what was/is in many ways an occupied country was brilliantly written, directed and portrayed.
Underlying all of this is the sense of older men in power manipulating and controlling the younger men beneath them almost regardless of apparent side. There were several points when it seemed to me there was genuine fellow feeling and almost camaraderie between the youngsters who were forced into acts of violence they really didn't want to commit and wouldn't benefit from.
I felt there was an underlying theme of class and Gary Hook coming from a children's home had a depressing reality to it.
All in all, this was a riveting watch and one of those films you might find yourself mulling over. There are some very realistic portrayals of violence and pain so it's not an easy watch but I feel like I might have to go back and watch it again regardless. Jack O'Connell is often brilliant but I don't think I've ever been so engaged by his performance - he is utterly real in this part.
The writer and director certainly understood the 70s and N Ireland and brought it to life frighteningly well; lots of memories came flooding back.
Harry Brown (2009)
Grim but brilliant
I watched this film for all the wrong reasons; essentially I've been on a Jack O'Connell kick. It's a horrific film and was filled with mindless violence, hatred and vile behaviours. I should have hated it but I was riveted; Michael Caine is completely believable and his performance reminded me how brilliant he can be on screen (I'm digging out Sleuth later on- the original not the Jude Law monstrosity). All the performances felt true to life and the oppressive atmosphere on the estate is one I know all too well from childhood.
Horrific things happen and Harry Brown's response could so easily appear impossible or at least highly unlikely but it just isn't written like that and I know I'm not alone in growing up amongst ex-military men who I am sure could have been Harry Brown under the right circumstances.
The writer recognises that 'youths' like this don't come from nowhere but also makes it clear that understanding behaviour doesn't excuse it and there are consequences for all involved. Grim but brilliant.
SAS Rogue Heroes (2022)
You might like it- some people did
Maybe we just shouldn't do 'true' stories; I mean there are so many creative people out there maybe we should stick to making stuff up? This feels quite made-up for a true story...only the facts have been changed to protect the innocent/ easily bored. There's some very believable acting and some very unbelievable situations some of which are apparently true, although what is truth? Is it true that I watched the first episode in 5 minute chunks because I was crawling with contact embarrassment...might be. Is it true that the SAS are a breed apart and properly scary? Yes. They kill people for a living and eat really weird stuff apparently. Will some people love this? Absolutely and more power to your elbow but if you're a bit of a history buff or not that keen on testosterone levels leading to insane decisions and inane fights (not with the enemy but with the men on your own side) this might not be for you.
Lady Chatterley's Lover (2022)
Very enjoyable- and hygienic
The first thing to catch the eye is the bold lack of face masks, alongside nary/ neary/ nerry (???) an alcohol wipe to be found. Different times indeed.
A lot has been made of the use of intimacy coordinators but, frankly, that might revolve around mixing up the professions involved; these people are ACTORS who PRETEND to do things- if you want to watch real things happening try a documentary...or a window.
Personally, I felt the relationship between the two leads was very believable - Connie seemed a bit distracted at times but then one could argue knocking off your hubby's gamekeeper is a slightly dubious activity and that she wouldn't want to be caught. Also being naked in the grass doesn't only risk pregnancy- there's Limes' disease to consider..
All in all a very enjoyable watch and for those people cross about the differences from the book- just read the book; we all know how hard it is to adapt any novel (plus be grateful the adaptation is far less grubby than the book- not sexually- people in the film wash which is a blessing because intimate moments can be ruined by the thought 'when did you last clean those fingernails? ')
Give it a go!
Godless (2017)
Slooooow
Brilliant cast all acting brilliantly; sandy setting but no sea to speak of (well a tiny bit at the end but not sure that counts).
And you keep thinking....oooh it's going to take off any minute now....yep any minute now all hell will break loose...any second.........did I doze off there for a minute...ok....
Then the tension grows between the two leads and they are both attractive and lonely and...and...the denouement is approaching...no sorry blinked and missed it. Really, REALLY that's it!!!
I know many people loved it and there are awards and stuff but I just wanted to understand a bit more and for a bit more to happen - it would be a very dull world if we all liked the same things.
Penance (2020)
Enjoyable!
I'm going to say possibly most enjoyable for heterosexual women (I was going to get specific about age but I would have to say there's a broad appeal probably)- the story is fine- the acting is believable - the phrase 'potboiler' may or may not mean something to you- worth a look.
Ten Percent (2022)
Overly excited about Canvey
Really enjoyed this and then they went through South Benfleet (where I grew up) to Canvey (where SO many friends lived) and I loved it even more...yay!!!
The Village: Episode #1.5 (2013)
Too good
The characterisation and acting was just so moving. Like most Brits I grew up knowing about the Great War and had been taught the term shell shock but I'd never properly considered the idea that young men would come home on leave and then return to the front knowing what awaited them. Nico Mirallegro's performance is heartbreaking and made part of our shared history all too real and vivid. The contrast between the powerful and powerless was beautifully illustrated throughout with one law for the privileged and another for the rest...thank goodness THAT doesn't happen anymore....
This Beautiful Fantastic (2016)
Beautiful
I happened across this one Saturday afternoon and was weirdly grateful for the messages it shared. Wonderful writing and brilliant performances from some of my favourite actors. Definitely worth your time if you want a thought provoking tale full of love.
Redisplacement (2020)
Riveting!
Somehow this lasts longer than its time and it is absolutely fascinating. The actors are completely believable and the story left me full of questions; I really hope someone turns it into a full length film because there is definitely a tale to tell. Give it a look.
My Mad Fat Diary (2013)
Brilliant until season 3
Fabulous acting and direction in first two seasons. The 90s setting fed by an amazing soundtrack and the whole thing peppered with warmth and humour. You are likely to fall in love with Rae and Finn and wince at some of the hideously familiar and embarrassing conversations. All the actors do a phenomenal job and I rewatched the first 13 episodes so often I could have joined in with the dialogue.
Season 3 felt like a betrayal. Although this series is based on a true story, the central love story isn't so it was someone's choice for Finn to let Raye down in a totally uncharacteristic way. Rae could have been allowed to just make a hard choice- women do.
The Best of Me (2014)
Cross about the end
It doesn't make it a better film because of a miserable ending- I really enjoyed lots of this but it's not Samuel Beckett so they could have just had a happy ending!