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Reviews
Ted Lasso: So Long, Farewell (2023)
Stans want blood, most fans couldn't be more happy
Ted Lasso, a show about personal growth amidst trauma, prioritized character development over romantic relationships. As the series progressed, it had moments that felt like a fairy tale, showcasing endless optimism even during its darkest moments. The show stood out with its mix of fun, crazy antics, and profound monologues on the human condition, making it a unique and unexpected sports-themed dream.
In the finale, Ted made a firm decision that nothing could change. While fans may have desired resolution in romantic relationships for closure, the showrunners primarily focused on the characters' personal journeys, their professional success, and most importantly, their significant personal growth.
The montage in the finale showcased the characters' expected or understandable conclusions in their endeavors. Undoubtedly, there will be complaints, but it's important to note that many people may not have fully understood the show's underlying message.
While a spin-off is a possibility, it's doubtful that we'll see Ted Lasso return in a meaningful way.
Love it or hate it, the show brought a supply of joy at the exact right time, and I personally can't thank those involved enough for their effort.
Lucky Hank (2023)
Not for everybody, but if it's for you it's incredible.
It's like Ted Lasso and Community had a love child.
Not everyone will be a fan. Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul fans may be disappointed, it's a completely different vibe.
The show is both champions diversity, while in some degree admonishes it's cultural significance. The opening of the show has set it up to be a mixture of social commentary, comedy, drama, and deep existential discussions.
This show will have a significant cult following, but i'm unsure if it will be a retail success.
But hey...
Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul didn't hit their stride artistically and commercially until a couple seasons in.
Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty (2022)
Perfection Doesn't Exist
I've waited for the for the first 5 episodes to come out to binge, and gauge the show with a broader sample size. Like everything, some people are looking for perfection, instead of accepting what is put in front of them. This is a period piece and dramatization of a sports team; it's not autobiographical.
Pros:
1. Style - it's unique. The camera shots are amazingly creative with light, the continuous shifting of how they shot/edited each shot (VHS, film, and actual footage) brings a greater engagement with time period and already knowing how the story unfolds, makes it a bit haunting. Adam mckay took some of the "big short" ideas and implemented them - like talking to the camera. It reminds me of the bold/rare style of a Cowboy Bebop, and the great dramatization of Succession.
2. Complex characters/ acting - by now many know some of the characters are not loved by those who they are portraying - Jerry West and Kareem in particular. While the creators used a plethora of source material to gauge their characters, that doesn't mean they can get them spot on. I sympathize with those who feel they're being misrepresented, we all like to guide our own narrative. However, nearly each characte is a masterclass in how to write a multidimensional personality. We see many sides of each character, and each has a personal battle that is enthralling. The acting is superior....
3. John C Reilly - a comedic actor with many successes, but this may be his crowning achievement. His role as a 70-80s real estate Tycoon, Playboy, Laker Owner is of course what Jerry Buss is best known for. However, the dive into the politics of his business and his personal family life brings a so much depth to his actions. His character is a wild mash of Daniel Plaineview from "Their Will Be Blood" - the dark business man whose driven by success, and Ted Lasso as an overly optimistic man smiling through the pain.
Cons
1. Crowded - Because there are so many pivotal personalities in the organization with their own storylines, the show can leave you wondering about other for long periods of time. It may be 45 minutes between John C Riley scenes, so really i'm just complaining that i want more Jerry Buss! Kind of like how they left Bran out of Game of Thrones for an entire season, just wondering whats happening on that end of the narrative.
2. Lakers Fans - many people likely see the the "I'm a laker fan and i think..." comments. Again, things like this can't be catered to the niche market segment, it's a business trying to make money and they have to reach a larger audience. This is a con because their comments are generally ignorant of the shows purpose or they're just snowflakes who can't believe their icons arent perfect. Jerry West by many accounts was a depressed, grump (admitted in his own autobiography) as much as he wants to deny it. Kind if like the "true halo fans" who can't accept that the Halo TV show can't be a video game. Minority gate keeping is always annoying.
Overall, great drama, great acting, and very bingeable.