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Reviews
Last Call: When a Serial Killer Stalked Queer New York (2023)
The Gay Panic Defense Gave a Serial Killer Lifetime Immunity
The people and culture embraced in this well crafted documentary have been misunderstood, forsaken, and unfairly ostracized. I found it a compelling series that not only described mysterious and brutal murders, but ones that literally were dismissed because of the sexuality of the victims. It is worth watching with an open mind to gain understanding of social realities and the inequality and ineffectiveness of our justice system. The progression and success of the serial killer was frightening and gave rise to political protests and increased public visibility of gay and trans rights. Staying with the detailed developments and attempts to obtain justice and accountability was the strength of the work. Character studies and family interactions added depth and foundation for the headlines. As I reflect on the evolution of my own perspective and tolerance I can see how I may have affected others close to me who needed my respect and support. We need more illustrations and story telling of this caliber.
Emancipation (2022)
Do Not Fail to Watch
This work was devastating, infinitely maddening, unspeakably sad yet thrilling. I believe it is Will Smith's greatest work. It is the historical representation of the foundation of American economy that many would like to suppress or sugarcoat. Like the Holocaust, we must face the specter of the animalistic and Godless brutality "society" can permit. How ironic is a scene where a family aborts the dinner prayer to aid in hunting down a human being with murderous intent. We can make use of this information so beautifully presented to help forge a society that honors the true ideals of democracy. We can use it as a mirror to present day practices that seek to disenfranchise and oppress. Do not fail to watch.
Candyman (2021)
Brilliant Artistic Production and Storyline
Another fabulous work by Jordan Peele. I was immediately drawn into the story through the use of Indonesian style shadow puppetry. The repeated use of these graphics to augment the dialogue throughout was poetic and effective. Action set in Chicago wove in the current phenomenon of gentrification of former slum neighborhoods. This, added to historical references, educated the viewer and added depth and urgency. The modern take on black leading characters who were upwardly mobile was refreshingly contemporary. Artistic design throughout including representation of the art gallery business was first rate. Handsome and talented actors. This update took the original Candyman concept and infused it with the passion and ferocity of liberating revenge.
Jurassic Island (2022)
What an embarrassment
Low budget zombie meets dinosaur disaster. Might be a candidate for MST 3000 or Elvira? Don't mistake this for any relation to the Jurassic franchise.
Don't Let Go (2019)
Spellbinding Thriller
Great crime drama, augmented by Science Fiction twist! Set in my beloved, gritty hometown of Los Angeles, this film was well acted and produced. "Save me, I will save you." Watch for all the clues.
Chopped (2007)
Inconsistent Standards and Bias by Judges
Sorry, guys, I've been enjoying this show and the creativity of the contestants. Like other reality cooking/baking shows there is a lack of understanding when it comes to judging contestants from "different' cultures (usually people of color). But what really bothered me was the preferential treatment often shown to men. Example: female chef got the boot for undercooked meat. Judges said "You can't serve raw pork." Then shortly after I watched the twins episode in which the 6'5" chefs served raw pork as an entree but did not get cut, Instead Two African twins were cut, and the judges comment was "The meat was undercooked, but..." If you want to improve your rating try practicing fairness. Oh yeah, and by the way most of the food in this world is cooked by women.