Emma Thompson and Daryl McCormack are phenomenal in their roles. Their relationship can be described as awkward, intimate, warm, and sensual, and the viewers can follow their rapport building up throughout the meetings. The movie bravely explores themes such as body image and acceptance, ageing, femininity and societal expectations for women, the lived experience of being a sex worker and the assumptions one may typically hold for sex workers, shame, female orgasm and sexual liberation. I expected to watch a comedy, and I was completely taken by surprise with rich and in-depth dialogues between the two co-stars. The way the movie approaches the protagonist's perceptions about her body and the journey she goes through to learn how to love and care for it is so sensitive, emotive and inspiring. I would believe the majority of women will be touched and see aspects of themselves in Nansy's story, as often patriarchal beliefs are deeply internalised and we need to continuously challenge what society expects of us. I hope this movie can act as food for thought for all women and men, especially for women whose emotions and desires for pleasure have been historically repressed because of socially constructed generational ideas. Needless to say I absolutely loved the movie, and the final 30' left me sobbing. This is a modern must-watch.
Reviews
21 Reviews
Girlboss
(2017)
Easy to watch 20-min episodes
19 February 2023
This show has 13 23-minute episodes which makes it easy to watch/binge over food or in the background.
I expected to fall in love with the character, as the story of the entrepreneur is quite interesting in real life, but I did not. She is obnoxious, self-centred, immature, irresponsible and honestly quite unlikeable. The script and characters are poorly written which results in the show not being funny at all, despite wanting to. The actors did the best they could with what they have, but no wonder why the show was cancelled.
One thing I appreciated was cool vintage fashion pieces over the episodes and portraying at some level a storyline that has some truth.
I expected to fall in love with the character, as the story of the entrepreneur is quite interesting in real life, but I did not. She is obnoxious, self-centred, immature, irresponsible and honestly quite unlikeable. The script and characters are poorly written which results in the show not being funny at all, despite wanting to. The actors did the best they could with what they have, but no wonder why the show was cancelled.
One thing I appreciated was cool vintage fashion pieces over the episodes and portraying at some level a storyline that has some truth.
Maestro
(2022– )
Long-awaited reinstatement of Greek talent
20 December 2022
Finally, the Greek television comes back with a high quality series; on direction, cinematography, script and music. Beautiful scenery in the islands of Paxoi and Corfu, fantastic music in the background and well thought-through dialogue depicting the, unfortunately, hard-to-face truth about remote Greek communities.
The series will offer an opportunity through Netflix for people abroad to watch outstanding Greek actors, such as Kavogianni, Mouratidis and Tsortekis, as well as musician Alexiou. Papakaliatis invites dialogue on deeply rooted patriarchy, domestic abuse, homophobia and political agendas. However, also highlights the beauty of the Greek culture; the generosity, community, cultural appreciation and history, strong family unity and what is widely known as "filotimo".
Overall, the show is at a similar level of production as series that come from other countries. It is worth your attention and I highly recommend. On a plus side, it will probably convince you - if you are still considering - to visit Greece.
The series will offer an opportunity through Netflix for people abroad to watch outstanding Greek actors, such as Kavogianni, Mouratidis and Tsortekis, as well as musician Alexiou. Papakaliatis invites dialogue on deeply rooted patriarchy, domestic abuse, homophobia and political agendas. However, also highlights the beauty of the Greek culture; the generosity, community, cultural appreciation and history, strong family unity and what is widely known as "filotimo".
Overall, the show is at a similar level of production as series that come from other countries. It is worth your attention and I highly recommend. On a plus side, it will probably convince you - if you are still considering - to visit Greece.
This Is Going to Hurt
(2022)
This did hurt
14 December 2022
This TV show is based on Adam Kay's book and speaks his truth about the experience of being a junior doctor in the National Health System in the UK. We see the lack of funding and resources, the tiredness and exhaustion among doctors and nurses, the burnout and catastrophic mental health consequences working in a broken system - not only for the frontline workers themselves, but their patients too.
The characters are faced with quick decisions on the spot, under pressure, lack of sleep, huge amount of expectations from colleagues and superiors. We also get a flavour (only a flavour) of the racism played out, the structural challenges in the system to call it out and the power imbalances between white people and people of the global majority. Racial abuse is an everyday phenomenon in the NHS - from patients, colleagues, superiors, and unfortunately the show doesn't even touch the level of its reality.
The series will be perceived differently by people in the UK who are familiar with the NHS, especially frontline health workers like myself. I felt angry and so disappointed with the system we work in. We are expected to work without appropriate support and supervision, burned out and often - like Adam - traumatised. Adam is going through a traumatic experience and there is no support for his mental health (or even acknowledged from his supervisors).
Ben Whishaw is outstanding in his performance, as the rest of the cast. It's definitely a show worth your attention!
The characters are faced with quick decisions on the spot, under pressure, lack of sleep, huge amount of expectations from colleagues and superiors. We also get a flavour (only a flavour) of the racism played out, the structural challenges in the system to call it out and the power imbalances between white people and people of the global majority. Racial abuse is an everyday phenomenon in the NHS - from patients, colleagues, superiors, and unfortunately the show doesn't even touch the level of its reality.
The series will be perceived differently by people in the UK who are familiar with the NHS, especially frontline health workers like myself. I felt angry and so disappointed with the system we work in. We are expected to work without appropriate support and supervision, burned out and often - like Adam - traumatised. Adam is going through a traumatic experience and there is no support for his mental health (or even acknowledged from his supervisors).
Ben Whishaw is outstanding in his performance, as the rest of the cast. It's definitely a show worth your attention!
WeCrashed
(2022)
Great acting, fun to watch
7 December 2022
Both Jared Leto and Anne Hathaway are fantastic - especially Jared Leto. He came too close to how the real Adam Neumann acted and spoke (if you watch real life interviews).
The series reminded me quite a lot of 'The Dropout', the narcissism behind big ideas of changing the world and how this can be catastrophic. The characters are quite unlikeable, but I assume is probably a accurate representation of the true personas and the god complex they seem to have. The series is interesting to watch, especially if you are in this field or interested in start-ups and autobiographies.
Too bad not everyone can be a Steve Jobs in this world, but everyone wishes to be one impacting other people's lives.
The series reminded me quite a lot of 'The Dropout', the narcissism behind big ideas of changing the world and how this can be catastrophic. The characters are quite unlikeable, but I assume is probably a accurate representation of the true personas and the god complex they seem to have. The series is interesting to watch, especially if you are in this field or interested in start-ups and autobiographies.
Too bad not everyone can be a Steve Jobs in this world, but everyone wishes to be one impacting other people's lives.
Wednesday
(2022– )
Outstanding performance by Ortega
26 November 2022
Tim Burton is back with a very fun, dark and dynamic show - a reminder of his talent.
Finally, he chose a representative and diverse cast, with outstanding performances by all the actors involved. They all do a fantastic job with their roles, with Jenna Ortega stealing the show. It's like the role was written for her, she is humorous, dark and beautiful (the 'dance scene' in episode 4 is just magic). The chemistry between the actors was also spot on. I enjoyed that throughout the story the characters bring up themes around loneliness, death, love, emotions, family - existential aspects we all hold close to us.
Great direction and cinematography, nothing less than expected from Tim Burton. The music accompanying the show is syncing amazingly with the scenes. He takes you to another of his magical worlds with the Addams family in the centre of it.
Finally, he chose a representative and diverse cast, with outstanding performances by all the actors involved. They all do a fantastic job with their roles, with Jenna Ortega stealing the show. It's like the role was written for her, she is humorous, dark and beautiful (the 'dance scene' in episode 4 is just magic). The chemistry between the actors was also spot on. I enjoyed that throughout the story the characters bring up themes around loneliness, death, love, emotions, family - existential aspects we all hold close to us.
Great direction and cinematography, nothing less than expected from Tim Burton. The music accompanying the show is syncing amazingly with the scenes. He takes you to another of his magical worlds with the Addams family in the centre of it.
The Swimmers
(2022)
A strong message of hope
26 November 2022
Beautiful, heartbreaking and raw. This movie shows the real struggles refugees and asylum seekers experience all around the world, but also the hope they hold on to; to survive, to reunite, to help others, to succeed.
Through the lenses of the Mardini sisters we get a glimpse of the physical and emotional pain of fleeing war, trauma of migration, family separation, fear of dying, and practical difficulties of claiming asylum (long legal procedures, language barriers, xenophobia and racism in the host countries). I appreciated that other refugee stories are depicted in the movie, with some getting lost, some being treated unfairly by the smugglers, some not making it, some being deported, some being further marginalised in the society - this is the reality and everyone need to know what's going on around them. I also felt the movie shows how difficult it can be for single male refugees to make it (e.g. Their cousin).
The movie had a message of hope, love, connection and belongingness. There will always be people like Sven, who will be there to offer shelter and opportunities. There will always be people like the two sisters, who will lift up others and support the vulnerable. It's a reminder that ourselves and our values can guide us, no matter the difficulties, to succeed and reach our dreams.
Concluding - besides being an autobiographical movie, this is also a political movie. It's for everyone to watch, and imagine the unimaginable. Refugees are people like you, like me. We are just more privileged to be in countries with no war. Refugees have human rights. For some, it will hopefully be a wake up call to challenge their assumptions and act.
PS. You will most likely cry throughout the movie.
Through the lenses of the Mardini sisters we get a glimpse of the physical and emotional pain of fleeing war, trauma of migration, family separation, fear of dying, and practical difficulties of claiming asylum (long legal procedures, language barriers, xenophobia and racism in the host countries). I appreciated that other refugee stories are depicted in the movie, with some getting lost, some being treated unfairly by the smugglers, some not making it, some being deported, some being further marginalised in the society - this is the reality and everyone need to know what's going on around them. I also felt the movie shows how difficult it can be for single male refugees to make it (e.g. Their cousin).
The movie had a message of hope, love, connection and belongingness. There will always be people like Sven, who will be there to offer shelter and opportunities. There will always be people like the two sisters, who will lift up others and support the vulnerable. It's a reminder that ourselves and our values can guide us, no matter the difficulties, to succeed and reach our dreams.
Concluding - besides being an autobiographical movie, this is also a political movie. It's for everyone to watch, and imagine the unimaginable. Refugees are people like you, like me. We are just more privileged to be in countries with no war. Refugees have human rights. For some, it will hopefully be a wake up call to challenge their assumptions and act.
PS. You will most likely cry throughout the movie.
Magnetic Fields
(2021)
Honestly...how?
5 October 2022
Being a supporter of the Greek cinematography and authenticity, I was very excited about this movie after reading all the fabulous reviews. When I was watching it, however, all I kept thinking is how on earth it attracted so good reviews? Why people are even considering to submit this movie as the official entry for the Academy Awards? The acting is overall nothing outstanding and very mediocre; compared to what others thought, I enjoyed watching Tsiotsiopoulos, but I couldn't find any joy in Topalidou. It was like she was on cannabis or substances throughout the whole movie. The plot is nothing interesting, nor are most of the discussions. The film seems to have been very low budget, as it was shot by an iPhone camera at times... I genuinely only liked the nature and the views, as well as the fact that I was watching a movie in my native language. Shame other outstanding Greek movies so far haven't gotten that level of attraction.
Ms. Marvel
(2022)
South Asian culture with superpowers
9 September 2022
This series is fun, culturally sensitive and diverse. It portrays a picture of South Asian families, particularly Pakistani, and the impact of historical events such as the British colonisation and the partition between India/Pakistan. Enjoyed the food, traditional weddings, clothes, markets and landscapes from Pakistan (unsure if it has been indeed filmed there). Loved the series, and I honestly do not understand why and how people have rated it so low. It's good that Marvel moves towards diverse superheroes and away from mainstream American characters. If you enjoyed the Black Panther (which falls in the former category) you will definitely enjoy this series.
Partner Track
(2022)
Good idea, bad acting and scenario
4 September 2022
Although the series aims to present the difficulties of being a woman of colour in a competitive professional field, it does so disappointingly. Instead of focusing on the real challenges of intersectionality, discrimination, racism and sexism, it chooses to focus on love stories with colleagues (or not) that...get in the way for a woman to get what she wants?! What sort of message does this pass to the audience? In addition, the acting is really bad, there is no chemistry between the characters and the expressions of the leads are non-existent. It's a shame that they did not cast a more suitable Asian actress for this specific role. Rachel, Tyler and Nick were a positive aspect in the acting team. Overall, I wouldn't recommend the series.
Where the Crawdads Sing
(2022)
Good effort, but not for the book lovers
2 August 2022
Disclaimer: I absolutely LOVED the book. I was amazed by the descriptive element, the connection with nature and the plot twist.
The movie was a good effort to depict the book, but failed to do so elegantly. The acting was mediocre (it pains me to say so, because I love Edgar-Jones) and I didn't feel a chemistry among the actors. There was lack of description and depth in the movie, which will be a sad realisation for those of you who have read and adored the book. I enjoyed the nature and cinematography, but i believe if the movie had a bigger budget and potentially a playful director it would have been a different discussion.
The movie was a good effort to depict the book, but failed to do so elegantly. The acting was mediocre (it pains me to say so, because I love Edgar-Jones) and I didn't feel a chemistry among the actors. There was lack of description and depth in the movie, which will be a sad realisation for those of you who have read and adored the book. I enjoyed the nature and cinematography, but i believe if the movie had a bigger budget and potentially a playful director it would have been a different discussion.
Love, Victor
(2020–2022)
Representation and inclusivity, but poor acting
19 July 2022
I enjoyed the representation of the LGBTQI+ community and exploring sexuality during adolescence. I think the show is passing good messages on the acceptance of our sexual identities and how the society, friends, parents, churches can support the gay community. I also liked how the show depicted the different perspectives of Victor's parents, their struggles and how they overcame them. However, I found the acting is quite poor, especially from the lead actors. You almost could tell they were acting, like they were trying too hard to be these characters and that shouldn't be the case. I would have also liked the lead characters to actually be from the gay community, instead of straight young men. Overall, the show is enjoyable.
The Waiter
(I) (2018)
Good example of Greek Weird Wave
25 June 2022
This film will definitely not be everyone's cup of tea. I would say it falls under the Greek Weird Wave and people who admire Lanthimo's work will definitely enjoy watching it. The dialogues are short and weird, the sounds of the city and nature very vivid and heightened, and the movements of the protagonists almost do not represent typical behaviours. From a psychological point of view, it creates dilemmas around ethical behaviour and consequences of actions. I hold a lot of respect for Servetalis and Stankoglou, and their great acting is to recognise. The sceneries and depiction of Athens as a city will give a sense of loneliness and romanticism to people who are born and raised there (at least that's what happened to me, I admired my city through the director's lenses). The cinematography and direction is outstanding, definitely a director to follow. I hope we see more of his work soon, and how exciting he has opened that path for the Greek cinema.
Us Again
(2021)
Beautiful, meaningful and fun
10 June 2022
Although short, the metaphor of rain and ageing was beautiful. Regardless of your age, you will see yourself too in this couple. The music, colours and dance moves were amusing and entertaining. I also really liked the representation through portraying a mixed-race couple. Well done, it was about time. My take home message after watching this short movie is to enjoy every moment of my life when it is happening, instead of chasing a younger version of myself. Imagine what people can do in more than 6 minutes!
The Man from Earth
(2007)
Thought-provoking but I wasn't impressed
10 April 2022
This film would work amazingly on theatre. I can imagine the set in the theatre scene, using space, movement and furniture in stage to make the discussion between the characters lively. I found some of the topics the characters discussed really interesting and thinking of epistemology I quite enjoyed that they were able to hold multiple truths. However I found the film somewhat boring and cringy, as well as not very impressive direction and acting.
Desperate Housewives
(2004–2012)
Fun to watch, but gets tiring
13 March 2022
Warning: Spoilers
The first season is great, then it starts getting a bit repetitive with all the murders and all. Also, most of the characters are annoying and unlikeable for one reason or another. I mostly like Lynette and Tom. Also- Bree's kids are some of THE MOST unlikeable characters and little brats ever portrayed in TV, especially Andrew.
The Power of the Dog
(2021)
Beautiful cinematography, no much of a storyline
9 February 2022
The direction and cinematography of this film is honestly beautiful. I wouldn't be surprised if the film wins the best picture, best direction and best cinematography at the Academy Awards. Benedict as always is acting as we would expect; he is in it. However, I found the story ultra boring, and I almost fall asleep throughout. Very slow and nothing is happening. I wanted to say something different from others who rant over here, but unfortunately I understand now why they do. Very overrated and over-discussed movie from what it actually is.
PS. My partner slept 3 times. It took him 3 days to finish.
PS. My partner slept 3 times. It took him 3 days to finish.
Great to see inclusivity
26 June 2021
Thank you Pixar for always doing so amazing things. Please bring more characters onwards and make them more relatable to different groups of people. I would like to see a movie focused on people with learning disabilities.
Miss Violence
(2013)
Great film direction, but very disturbing
18 May 2021
Warning: Spoilers
This film has an artistic note and the director is doing magic with body movement, scenes and how people are positioned in the camera. I really liked the way certain things are presented throughout the film in terms of dark shadows/light in relation to events taking place (whether happy or sad) and how connections and dynamics within the family are implied through cinematography.
I didn't enjoy the fact that I had stomach pain with certain scenes (e.g. The rape scenes and the suicide) because of how raw they were. I found the film very disturbing and upsetting, mostly because I do believe that these families exist. Domestic violence is one of the most common phenomena in Greece crime scene. The final part with the exploitation and rape of the child just made me sick.
I really think you get an idea from the title, but there should be trigger warnings and signposting to support if someone experiences dark thoughts or feels distressed. The scene depicting a suicide method would be advised against, in the UK at least.
I didn't enjoy the fact that I had stomach pain with certain scenes (e.g. The rape scenes and the suicide) because of how raw they were. I found the film very disturbing and upsetting, mostly because I do believe that these families exist. Domestic violence is one of the most common phenomena in Greece crime scene. The final part with the exploitation and rape of the child just made me sick.
I really think you get an idea from the title, but there should be trigger warnings and signposting to support if someone experiences dark thoughts or feels distressed. The scene depicting a suicide method would be advised against, in the UK at least.
Ginny & Georgia
(2021– )
A bit of teenage drama, but fun to watch
8 April 2021
Warning: Spoilers
I enjoyed watching the show, but at times I felt very annoyed by one of the main characters - Ginny. Although she is a teenager and traumatised from moving around and life circumstances, I felt she wasn't compassionate at all with her mother nor she tried to understand her point of view. Constantly avoiding making decisions, but also judging everyone else for their mistakes.
I am also a little worried about how the series normalises self-harm as a coping mechanism for difficult feelings, without including any trigger warnings or support signposting at the end. Producers need to reconsider, especially as this is targeting a younger and more vulnerable audience.
I am also a little worried about how the series normalises self-harm as a coping mechanism for difficult feelings, without including any trigger warnings or support signposting at the end. Producers need to reconsider, especially as this is targeting a younger and more vulnerable audience.
Sylvia
(2003)
Good, but missing a deeper element
30 October 2020
I love Sylvia Plath's work and her story is so interesting and painful at the same time. I felt the movie depicts some of her fragile state of mind, but not capturing her pain and feelings deeply. Gwyneth Paltrow's performance of Sylvia is amazing.
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