kossiek Reviews

Grace and Frankie (2015–2022)

Episode One

[8/10 · 10 June 2015]

Where to begin?! This is the first television series i've begun to watch, without seeing the trailer. The only indication i had to begin watching, was that the cast included Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin. Jane Fonda not known for her roles in television made me hopeful that this was something special; not to mention "Grace & Frankie" is a Netflix original.

Although the plot is at times predictable, the subsequent story is humorous and heartwarming due to the acting capabilities of Fonda and Tomlin, coupled by a soundtrack that reinforces the on screen chemistry.

The of role of sexuality is becoming more prominent in today's society, the portrayal in media has enabled individuals once opposed to same sex relationships, to begin to understand and change their perceptions. It's because of original and relevant content that society is able to move forward.

Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt (2015–2019)

From trailer to 1st episode

[8/10 · 7 April 2015]

Prior to watching any new series, i decide whether i should commit my time by the trailer; however i had mixed emotions because i liked half of it and the other looked half somewhat predicable. But i prevailed due to its ratings and much discussion on various websites + Tina Fey was the producer.

After watching the very first episode of a series i hadn't anticipated to begin watching, i was not only pleasantly surprised but embarrassed that i ever considered not watching the series due to my own predisposition.

The entire episode was consistent, it touched upon trending news and the humour was equally balanced with sympathy and plot anticipation. Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt has made me realise once again that Netflix, provides not only entertaining online series but also refreshingly original content.

The Grace Helbig Show (2015– )

First impressions

[6/10 · 5 April 2015]

To begin with i love Grace Helbig, was a huge fan of her early YouTube videos and was super excited to see she got her on show with E. First 5 minutes felt as though she was relying on the teleprompter however this was to be expected as the pressure would have been ridiculous of having your own talk show. As soon as she began her interview with Aisha Tyler she immediately transformed to the Grace we all know and love; it's at this stage where you see the shows potential. Mamrie Hart made an appearance bringing copious amounts of genuine, contagious laughter.

The format of the show is a refreshing change from all the stagnant talk shows out there, and incorporated a new demographic to television, that being YouTube subscribers who prefer the comfort of the mouse pad over the remote control.

Mulaney (2014–2015)

High expectations

[3/10 · 20 October 2014]

I first became a fan of John Mulaney after watching some of his stand up routines and he's clever remarks on talk show interviews, so naturally i was excited to see a television series with John in the leading role. Mulaney was referred to as a modern Seinfeld prior to its air date this fall, so i believe it is unfair to critique the show on it's similarities, as How I Met Your Mother was a modern adaptation of FRIENDS and was an enormous success in its own merit.

Having said this, i have to admit i am disappointed with Mulaney. The stand up routine in the beginning is always the most enjoyable, natural and unforced scene of each episode; there is little on screen chemistry between cast members, however the dialogue often leaves me cringing and regretting my decision to give the show another chance.

The series trailer depicted a lot of 'Ba Dm Tsss' moments however as of yet, it is yet to deliver and has provided viewers with a lot of missed opportunities and just plain awkwardness.

Stay (I) (2013)

Beautifully done

[8/10 · 14 February 2014]

It was great the see the extent of Taylor Schillings acting abilities; frequently associated with Orange is the New black, the up-and-coming actress proved she has much more to offer.

The story had a great sense of originality, the choice of actors aided with the consistency of the film whilst having great chemistry amongst each other.

I was not anticipating very much as Schilling fans expressed their loyalty exclusively towards the character of Piper Chapman (OITNB) and not towards Schillings vast acting capabilities; however after watching this film, all elements coincided with the natural beauty of the land to create a well written and elegantly directed film.