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chrislong
Reviews
Robin Hood (2018)
Remove your expectations
This is a Robin Hood story in the same way as Shakespeare is history, with the film using well known characters to make broader points. It sets itself in an ambiguous time frame, although still against the background of the crusades the scenes from the war themselves are styled more like JarHead and the Hurt Locker. Again this appears a deliberate device to remove you from the traditional tale and into the broader themes of the film.
If you want a 'classic' Robin Hood story then this is not for you, but it is an entertaining enough film, well put together. Although it does rather simplistically try to hammer home it's point, if you watch with an open mind and no expectations of what you want from a Robin Hood story, then it's worth a couple of hours of your time. Stylistically reminiscent of Ian McKellen's Richard the Third, although not quite on par!
Vikings: A New God (2018)
I assume they no longer have a saga/history consultant?
The first 4 series of Vikings were superb. Obviously some dramatic license was deployed, but in general terms the series stuck to the content of the sagas where possible.
It baffles me that as the series enters a time frame for which we have pretty reliable evidence for actual events, Vikings emphatically moves away from being a drama based in history to a game of thrones style soap opera. I don't expect a documentary, but why move away from a successful formula? The Last Kingdom is now doing a far superior job in this genre.
Britannia (2017)
Not for those with an interest in history or the topic
If you have any interest or knowledge in or of the Roman invasions of Britain, ancient Britons, druids, roman numerals, language, or in fact anything associated with the topic, this is not for you. I gave it 6 episodes under the assurance it got better, but it didn't. There are some excellent actors cast but sadly the script and direction offer them nothing.
If, on the other hand, you have no knowledge or interest in any of the above and just want to watch some sex and violence, you're in luck.
The A-Team: Mind Games (1985)
Utter brilliance
Best episode ever, easily. I saw it for the first time today, and was blown away, it is CLASSIC A Team.
Murdoc is so good, the other actors can hardly keep a straight face through most of it, especially Mr T (B.A.). With Face pardoned, Murdoc decides to promote himself to suave ladies man, and apes Face's mannerisms. And he even gets hold of a jet pack. That's right, a jet pack!
If you enjoyed the series for it's daftness, fun, and many, many flaws, you'll love this episode, rewind your sky plus (or TeVo) and love to all over again.