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The Vanishing Strings of the Andes (2023)
Insightful, compelling, and sad
A visually appealing and concisely delivered story about the difficulties faced by Ecuadorian artisans. The Vanishing Strings of the Andes is the type of documentary everyone needs to digest every now and again as part of their modern entertainment diet. It is sobering and provides an honest insight into a subject matter the audience may otherwise know nothing about. As a guitarist, I was at once captivated by the luthier's dedication to their craft and saddened by their struggles to share with the world their precious creations. The reality of cheaper and faster production is sadly reflected in the testimonies of those who Sam provides a voice to. A must watch.
Inside No. 9: Wuthering Heist (2021)
Theatrically and linguistically innovative
This episode is so cleverly constructed from the outset. You don't really have an idea what's going on until you do, but when you do, It's a joy. There's a great deal of 4th wall breaking, double entendres, and the signature plot twist we've come to expect from the creators - albeit never quite as anticipated.
All in all, It's one of those episodes you probably have to rewatch to really appreciate its mastery. There have been better, but this episode is a fantastic start to the new series.
Inside No. 9: The Stakeout (2020)
Riddle me this
There's a lot at stake in this episode.
Fortunately, it was packed with fantastically pungent writing by Shearsmith and Pemberton; brilliantly directed by the fearless Guillem Morales. Unfortunately, 9th March 2020 marks the last offering for Series 5.
Fortunately, the show has been resurrected for Series 6 and will no doubt be back with a wicked bite next year.
Unfortunately, next year is at least 12 months away. This means we'll have to make do with TV that pales in comparison; possibly even things that suck the soul right out of you.
Fortunately, Inside No.9 is so good that I'd wait a figurative lifetime to see what comes next. Don't keep us too long, though, for I won't be able to sleep at night not knowing when it's back.
The Outsider: Must/Can't (2020)
An outsider knows an outsider
Having read a few non-spoiler reviews of the final episode prior to watching, I was shocked to learn how disappointed some were with how this show ends.
Fortunately, everyone's opinion will differ - especially when it comes to a story whose eerie undertones seem to spike less and less frequently as the season progresses. That said, I'd say this episode hit all the right notes with pacing, character arcs, and answering just enough of the questions the audience has been riddled with since that start.
The way things are concluded makes sense. People's frustrations may be borne from having wildly different ideas as to where things were headed, but, again, that is inevitable with such a story. Its unpredictability is its strongest feature.
The few questions that remain and the residual unknown that is rightly left for the audience to think about is the smartest approach to leaving the option of a second season open. Even if it doesn't happen, the final (post-credits) scene is perfect.
I thoroughly enjoyed the show. Sure, it has slow parts. It certainly requires commitment and patience, but in the end it's worth it. The strong acting across the board also helps. Ben and Cynthia nailed it.
The Outsider: Tigers and Bears (2020)
Crucial episode
If anyone is having doubts midway through this show, all I can say is keep going.
As others have written, the middle episodes of this season have required on the part of the audience some patience and trust. The penultimate episode was crucial in repaying the faith, and it delivered spectacularly.
The tension and underlying unknown which has festered since the first episode is about to reach a climax.
Remarkable episode.
Inside No. 9: Misdirection (2020)
Fantastically twisted
By far the strongest episode so far in S5.
Inside No.9 at its best evokes a harrowing humour, with characters whose fates you're forced to care about. It's no easy accomplishment given the show's runtime, but it's achieved in abundance this episode. Other examples include Tom & Gerri, The Harrowing, La Couchette, 12 Days of Christine and Private View. Perhaps the darker episodes excite me that little bit more.
Neville may well be one of my favourite characters across the entire show.
Well done guys.