Reviews
Roswell (1999)
Not perfect by any means but enjoyable...and definitely not just for teenagers
Roswell's creators chose to forgo the purely standalone episode structure and deliver a long running story arc with an emphasis on the character development. The concept may look a little cheesy, but I guarantee that viewing the pilot will quickly change that perception. The characterisation strives to avoid stereotyping and the writers constantly provide teasing insights and surprises as we learn about what makes them tick over the course of the three seasons. Romance is an essential part of the show, but the quest for self-discovery and acceptance in society as "oneself" is another overwhelming arc at the heart of Roswell. It retains a highly devoted fan-base to this day.
Season 1 is certainly the most rounded and satisfying; and although the excursion into Sci-fi and certain character changes for Season 2 were not particularly satisfying it too has its moments. Season 3 appears to lack a firm hand on the tiller as the story drifts for too much of the first half, and only really kicks into life once the curtailing of the season and end of the show became certainties.
The acting from both young and old, regular or guest actors is of a high standard throughout even as the quality and consistency of writing varies.
While there are undoubtedly flaws, plot holes and frustrations (some, but not all caused by ill-considered Network interference), Roswell still manages to provide romance, excitement, intrigue, suspense and all round entertainment while remaining largely true to the everyday issues and ideals of the characters both teenage and adult. Much more than the sum of its parts, don't make the mistake like the BBC did in considering it as teen drama with a sci-fi twist for a teenage audience. Roswell really does have appeal to all ages: I should know: I'm a cynical forty something male who's watched the whole series 5 times...
Miss Ameriguá (1994)
Diverting, topical.
The film is set in Paraguay, based around a small town's beauty contest. The local council leader and benefactor, rather topically, is a General with a dubious military past. He tries to influence the result of the contest but a visitor to the town (who turns out out to be the brother of a "terrorist" shot by the General years ago) returns from exile seeking revenge. Should the townspeople forget the General's murky past in view of his current beneficence?