Challengers: Review
Challengers is a non-linear ride bursting with an inferno of chemistry between every iteration of the three leads. If you don’t know anything about tennis or simply don’t care for it, you will still enjoy the movie and be drawn into the drama off and on the court. Although not as physically steamy as the tailers promised, the tension and competition create iconic moments and make for an interesting ride.
Under The Bridge: Review
Hulu’s Under the Bridge is a strong series with commentary on teenage mentality with layered characters matched with complex portrayals from the younger cast that captivate and propel the story forward. There are times when it can be frustrating but in ways that work with the narrative to create a compelling story of a brutal tragedy.
Dinner With Parents: Review
Dinner With Parents is a comedy series about the Langer family's weekly dinner party, which is filled with chaos and fiascos. The Langer family is at odds with each other, leading to chaos at Friday night dinner. The show's situational humour has been lacking in every episode, with small roles like Grandma Rose providing nothing new or refreshing. There was potential for a light-hearted short comedy show with enjoyable family antics, but it was wasted, with the characters being reduced to stereotypes and not providing much entertainment.
Fallout: Review
Fallout is a fantastic series that stays true to the beloved video game series while standing on its own two feet. Having characters like Lucy MacLean and The Ghoul lead the show offers viewers rare different perspectives of a harsh world while still seeing the hope of a future that was despite the weaker storyline of the Brotherhood of Steel, this is a must watch and a new take on the post-apocalyptic genre.
The Fates: Review
Greek mythology, specifically retelling, is a popular choice amongst writers and readers, and while some authors find a new voice for their leads, it felt as though Garland struggled to find individual personalities for the three fated sisters. Some moments of The Fates were insightful, but they were few and far between, which is a shame given the potential of this retelling.
Ripley: Review
Ripley could have easily been an interesting psychological drama with a fleshed-out, explored character, but the eight-episode run is a tiresome watch with pretty shots and nothing much else. There is no intrigue for the character or the murderous situations because all the fun and life have been drained out of the series.
The Voyager: Review
The Voyager is an interesting debut novel and given how Carlucci can transport a reader with his descriptive prose will have them eagerly awaiting his next release. It’s a thought provoking novel with themes around deception and moral ambiguity told through a boy’s journey that is a clear recommendation for those who enjoy historical fiction.
We Were the Lucky Ones: Review
At its heart, this is a story about a family with exceptional luck and resourcefulness who will fight for survival in any way they can. The cast of characters gives varied accounts of what happened during this time and, showcased in their varied ways, gives a detailed, emotional journey that provides deep characterisation with one of the most horrific acts as the background.
Palm Royale: Review
With its captivating first five episodes that will leave viewers wanting more, Palm Royale had a lot of potential. Sadly, the writing in the later episodes deteriorates and the plots almost seem ridiculous. Some characters aren't used as much in the latter half of the season, and the abrupt conclusion will only make you frustrated that a lot of time was wasted on plots that didn’t go anywhere.
Irish Wish: Review
Lindsay Lohan's acting skills could have added important elements to the romantic comedy Irish Wish, but they are absent. Though Maddie and James have a humorous meet-cute in the film, there isn't much quality time spent by the romantic leads. The supporting cast feels non-existent, and Rosemary Kelly, Maddie's mother, receives far too much screen time due to the erratic pacing. Because Elizabeth's reality is competing with Maddie's alternate life, there is a lack of connection between Elizabeth and Maddie. The film lacks warmth and levity, despite James Ed Speleers’s comedic levity.