djbhdqrzkr Reviews

Poker Face (2023– )

Law of Diminishing Returns Applies

[4/10 · 17 March 2023]

I really liked the first 3 episodes, thought it was fresh, unexpected and fun with a quirky, intriguing main character, Charlie, portrayed so well by Natasha Lyonne. However, the formula starts to wear a bit thin the further you go along until by the finale it just completely falls apart for me. Charlie becomes less of a detective and more of a passenger in the story.

Since each episode features a different mystery it needs to introduce a new cast of characters and in the second half of the season it feels like too much time is spent with the setup of this side characters and the murder or maybe they are just less interesting. The finale feels rushed and it has no pay-off. By the end, I had completely lost interest and it ends how the season started: Charlie hitting the road and going off the grid to elude another crime boss but meaner this time.

Honestly, after thinking about it, just watch episodes 1-5 and then skip to the finale just so you can see how it ends. There ya go.

I would rate episodes 1-5 like an 8/10 and episodes 6-10 like a 4/10. Overall though, I feel like I sort of wasted my time.

I do appreciate the out-of-left-field use of Blues Travelers, The Hook. Never thought I would see that referenced in a movie or tv show.

Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur (2023– )

Fun For Kids and Adults That Aren't Grumpy

[8/10 · 4 March 2023]

Don't listen to the old grumps complaining that it wasn't made for them because it doesn't appeal to people that read a comic from 1978. This is a fun, light show with animation that pops and has a great style. My 8-year-old daughter enjoys it. Some of the references go over her head (i.e. Internet trolls, social media) but when it's on she's pretty enamored with it and I find myself enjoying too.

I've seen some people complaining its not deep and that there's not much character development and while that is true can't help find that rich coming from a generation whose cartoons were thirty minute toy commercials.

Anyways, I love the narration that feels like a throwback to Rocky & Bullwinkle cartoons (how's that for old). I like the family dynamic and you can never go wrong with Alfre Woodard. If you got kids check it out and watch it with them, you might find yourself having fun with it too.