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Reviews
Griselda (2024)
there are better options out there to spend your binge-watching time on.
Just binged "Griselda" and gotta say, I was left wanting more-and not in a good way. It's one of those shows that had a ton of potential but somehow missed the mark. The story's about Griselda Blanco, a real-life figure with a life story so wild, you'd think the show would be non-stop action and drama. But man, it felt like they just couldn't decide what tone they were going for. Was it a gritty crime drama? A rags-to-riches tale? It was hard to tell.
The pacing was all over the place, too. One minute you're on the edge of your seat, the next you're checking how much longer the episode is. And while I'm all for character development, there were parts that dragged on so much, the plot seemed to take a backseat.
Not to throw shade on the actors-there were some solid performances, but they could only do so much with the script they were given. It felt like the show wanted to dive deep into Griselda's psyche but ended up skimming the surface instead.
Also, for a story set in such a vibrant era and place, the show somehow managed to make everything look and feel kinda dull. The visuals and music, which could've added so much atmosphere, just didn't pop.
Honestly, with a story as rich and complex as Griselda Blanco's, this show could've been a knockout. Instead, it felt like a missed opportunity. If you're really into crime dramas, you might find some bits interesting, but otherwise, there are better options out there to spend your binge-watching time on.
The Rage in Placid Lake (2003)
Quirky and Fun, should have been bigger.
Just watched "The Rage in Placid Lake" and, wow, what a ride. This movie's got that quirky, off-the-beaten-path vibe that's hard to find. It's all about this guy, Placid Lake, who's anything but calm. Picture this: a dude who's been the odd one out his whole life, thanks to his super unconventional parents. Then, he decides to flip the script and dive headfirst into the corporate world. Yeah, talk about a plot twist.
Ben Lee plays Placid, and he absolutely kills it, bringing this perfect mix of sarcasm and depth to the character. You can't help but root for him, even when he's making the most bizarre choices. And the parents? They're a trip, making you rethink the whole 'normal' thing.
The movie's got humor, heart, and a little bit of that "stick it to the man" spirit. It's like a coming-of-age story but with a twist. Placid's journey from an outsider to, well, still an outsider, but on his own terms, is both hilarious and kinda inspiring.
The soundtrack's a banger, too, fitting the movie's mood perfectly. If you're into films that are a bit out there, with characters that stick with you and make you think, "The Rage in Placid Lake" is your jam. It's a reminder that it's okay to be different and that sometimes, the craziest path leads to the best destination. Definitely a must-watch if you're looking for something that's not your typical cookie-cutter flick.
Godfather of Harlem (2019)
Booya!
Been on a gangster movie binge lately and stumbled upon "Godfather of Harlem." Let me tell ya, this show's something else. Forest Whitaker plays Bumpy Johnson, and man, does he nail it. Bumpy's back in Harlem after some time away and he's not about to let the Italian mob push him around. The show feels real; it's got that 60s Harlem vibe down to a T, mixing in real-life figures and events which is pretty cool if you're into history.
Whitaker's performance is just the beginning. The whole cast is on point, bringing this gritty, complex world to life. The drama's intense, but it's got heart too, diving deep into what loyalty and power really mean. And the music? Spot-on. It's like you're right there, back in the day.
Honestly, "Godfather of Harlem" is more than just your average gangster drama. It's got substance, style, and some serious acting chops. Whether you're there for the action or the history, it's worth the watch. Never thought I'd get schooled on civil rights movements through a crime show, but here we are. Definitely add it to your list if you're looking for something that packs a punch both in action and emotion.
Fast Charlie (2023)
Holiday in Thailand got a free copy.
Weird story. I was on holiday on Ko Sami in Thailand and this dude has a suitcase full of pirate DVDs of Fast Charlie. Says he sold almost a thousand even before the movie opened in America. Then he sold them like hotcakes thru Xmas and New Year running out of copies 3 times. In mid January he had so much cash he got out of NY winter for Thailand. Gave out copies to lady friends. And one to me. Great movie. Hadn't heard of it. Pierce Brosnan was as good as ever and also turns out James Caan died shortly after making this film so was great to see a legend in such a fantastic last role. Woulda happily paid for it if I'd known about it.
Goodfellas (1990)
Will never forget
Will never forget watching this as a 16 year old. It was such a good movie, the performances, the devolution of the gangster life. It all just worked for me. I remember seeing hte trailer where it sayd 'all my life i wanted to be a gangster' then cuts to 'hey ma....' 'you look like a gangsta' that always makes me laugh. I watched the real Henry Hill's interview on VladTV recently and then went and watched the movie again, so I gotta say, y ou just can't go wrong. Will never forget watching this as a 16 year old. It was such a good movie, the performances, the devolution of the gangster life. It all just worked for me. I remember seeing hte trailer where it sayd 'all my life i wanted to be a gangster' then cuts to 'hey ma....' 'you look like a gangsta' that always makes me laugh. I watched the real Henry Hill's interview on VladTV recently and then went and watched the movie again, so I gotta say, y ou just can't go wrong.