henryhpaige Reviews

Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story (2023)

Good show - Dont believe the haters

[8/10 · 5 May 2023]

I am not typically a drama or romance fan and I was skeptical at first (still have not watched the original series), however after a couple episodes, the show won me over. The way the timelines are presented in the show can confuse a watcher who hasn't read the books or seen the original series but it does not lack to intrigue. Steeped in emotional nuances and laced with cerebral comedy, a wonderful soundtrack underscores a period piece that bends the status-quo of what viewers are used to while tackling social issues that permeate to this day. I find it wonderfully creative for the writers to imagine how (royal) families would navigate these multi-cultural issues during such a time.

That being said, I believe that many negatives reviews for this show and its predecessor were written by people who cannot imagine or do not want to see such a society exist in real life or fantasy.

The show is worth setting aside prejudices and viewing with an open mind ready to be entertained.

The Witcher (2019– )

Ummm...

[7/10 · 4 May 2023]

I like the WItcher and fantasy so I do like the show - entertained, at least. However, as you watch, you can tell the producers weren't sure how far they were going to go. Hence, quick writing with confusing, overlapping timelines with a vague attempt of blending modern profanity within the linguistics in order to draw in (younger) audiences.

As for the show itself, more potential could have been realized if more attention was given to the original works and aligned a little more closely.

Since the show has gained traction, I am interested in where they go with the third season. After a second watch of the first couple seasons, I am left almost as lost as the first time I watched it. I do believe and am hopeful that the producers give the third season the respect it deserves.

The Woman King (2022)

Anti-Slavery is not Anti-White. Pro-women is not anti-male...

[9/10 · 23 March 2023]

Culture aside, a must-see movie akin to all the others people love - Fighting for freedom, love and Justice. Great Talent, backstory and action. Like many movies, slightly predictable.

That said: Negative reviews confuse women empowerment for anti-male and also confuse anti-slavery with anti-white. Not the same.

As for historical accuracy: it's a movie, not a documentary. (And just a note, not all Africans were slaves)

Matter of fact, there were many African woman kings/rulers who defended their people for generations from numerous oppressors. This is a wonderful story inspired by those times.

All in all, a great movie that shares a different cultural perspective surrounding an era we've already seen so much of.

All American (2018– )

Entertaining teen soap opera

[7/10 · 26 March 2022]

Most bad reviews tend to forget that this is a teen drama - or better yet, a teen soap opera. The Best comparison put forth in reviews thus far was "OC meets Friday Night Lights." I personally didn't even know about the show until Netflix; yet alone that it has 4 seasons.

The show itself presents a diverse cast and is entertaining if you like soapy teen dramas and it fits that purpose; however, there are many times where the "teens" are making references way beyond their age - so much so that you can tell it's written by a 40yo, which is a Major downfall for me. (The show could do with a youth consultant for that). And I must admit, the antagonists and some actions in season 3 seemed just way out there (even though such craziness have been witnessed in real life and document in true crime shows).

Regardless, not a bad show to watch with the family and have discussions around the many social issues they decide to tackle throughout.

And if you decide to review, please remember that AllAmerican is a teen soap opera.

The Guardians of Justice (Will Save You!) (2022– )

They tried, just not well

[2/10 · 20 March 2022]

I see what they were trying to do but it was too much crammed into one piece with what seems to be a non-existent budget, The satirical parody gets lost in a clash of cliches, bad graphics and weak acting.

After struggling through the first couple episodes, I spent episode 3 trying to figure out "why" the creators would do this. After that, it was merely background play while I did anything else.

It's as if it wants to be one of those productions that are so bad they get a cult-following.

Raising Dion (2019–2022)

Great Family Show

[10/10 · 17 March 2022]

First off, the bad ratings don't take into account this is a family-orientated show meant for all ages. Those who've written bad ratings are over analyzing.

That being said, it is one of the best shows that suits the purpose.

Entertaining with lovable protagonists versus antagonists you can be mad at and, At the same time, subtly addresses many social issues without shoving them in your face.

As you watch, you can imagine being person trying to deal with a child learning s/he has abilities and having to navigate dealing with the growing pains.

Can't wait to see 2nd season and how it expands on the stories evolution....

Gunpowder Milkshake (2021)

Star-studded action & fun

[8/10 · 10 February 2022]

Predictable like most action movies are but worth the watch as it delivers a fun and entertaining action flick with brief appearances by a star-studded female cast that is reminiscent of Kill Bill and others of its genre. Regardless, it is a film for action lovers who appreciate the genre and do not always need a male protagonist.

Criminal: UK (2019–2020)

Great Writing

[9/10 · 31 December 2021]

If you like crime shows, this is one for you.

Taking place almost entirely in a single room, great writing and acting keep you compelled to watch and pull you into wondering how and what the outcome will be.

This can only be done with great writing, direction and acting.

Space Sweepers (2021)

An enjoyable movie

[7/10 · 31 December 2021]

Full of action, light-hearted, funny and overall entertaining. Some cheesy moments but Kot-Nim is hilarious and the harpoon-wielding AI, Bubs is a bad mofo.

Predictable but most movies like these are and for a lower-budget film, The graphics are pretty spot on.

A little long but worth the watch.

Oh, did I forget to mention the beautiful captain and her handsome crew - always a plus.

Tidelands (2018)

Wow. ...I wanted to like it...

[4/10 · 30 December 2021]

I'm a little upset with myself that I watched all 8 episodes but I love fantasy and the beautiful cast helps. Other than that, a super weak story that leaves a viewer feeling empty and wanting more but not in a good way.

Too many directors, Shallow dialogue and a rushed ending simply failed to deliver; so even though it seemed a season 2 could have happened, I'm not surprised it didn't.

Overall, it was entertaining though. And again, a beautiful cast (men & women) coupled with beautiful scenery helped.