dave-ranck Reviews

The Queen's Gambit (2020)

Excellent adaptation of a fascinating novel

[10/10 · 28 November 2020]

This movie is all the talk on chess sites. But you don't need to understand or be the least bit interested in chess to enjoy this series. Every aspect is well done and the story progression makes you want to watch "just one more episode". My wife knows little about chess and loves it.

The attention to detail is fascinating. The changes in Beth's makeup and hairstyle are symbolic of her inner mindset and emotional state. The trappings of the 60's are accurate and bring back memories of that time. And yes, the chess play is absolutely real. Every game played in the series can actually be replayed move by move. Accuracy in regard to the game of chess was very important to the novel and this series.

The acting is top notch. Anya Taylor-Joy portrays Beth in a way that brings the character to life. Even the way she moves the pieces is well-planned. And the other main characters are portrayed extremely well, though Beth's character steals the show.

The substance abuse can be painful to watch but it is vital to the story and to Beth's journey. Unfortunately tranquilizers were sometimes given to orphaned children at the time of the story.

Mild spoiler: Thanks to the author for a positive ending!

This is now one of my top 10 series. Well worth watching!

Centurion (2010)

Surprisingly good tale

[9/10 · 6 August 2010]

I'm a fan of the culture and history of early Britain, so my opinion may be tainted a bit, but I really enjoyed this flick. It had a surprisingly good story and was not just a blood and guts war fest. It appears that the movie may be based on Rosemary Sutcliff's Book 'The Eagle of the Ninth', in which the Ninth Legion is wiped out in Scotland in AD 117. In any case, there is controversy and mystery as to what really happened to the 9th, and that makes a setting for a good tale. There is just enough history to make the story plausible, for example the creation of Hadrian's wall is depicted.

Neither side is portrayed as the "good guys" or the "bad guys", and to me, that brought a sense of realism with it. This is a bloody film, with heads rolling and a plethora of fighting, so don't bring the kiddies. I watched it On Demand, but I might go see it again in the theater.