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Reviews
Grand Hotel (2015)
Well Done!
This series "Secret of the Nile" took me by surprise, and within two episodes, I was hooked. The actors are first rate, each offering nuanced layers to their characters, and together the story weaves the lives of some really likable characters (even the ones you want to dislike)... into a mystery that unfolds at the right pace with twists and turns revealing shadow and light in each and every character. I watched with English subtitles and didn't miss a beat. I have been saving the last episode to watch til this week... then I will watch again from the understandings I now have of the characters. And am hoping (please!?!) for a Season 2.
Call the Midwife (2012)
What a Gift!
It is a rare gift to watch a show that combines captivating story lines, excellent acting, and relevant themes... along with stories that deeply touch the heart. I am struck by the ways in which compelling stories are met with compassion, without shrinking away from the realities and implications of what happens in human life. A big thank you to writers, directors, producers, and actors... not only is your work incredibly good, it is work that matters. Work with heart and soul and power. Bravo. One of the best shows ever, anywhere.
Flip or Flop Vegas (2017)
Doesn't connect
Why would you repeat the format of a successful show with this poorly done replica? The way the hyped up Vegas environment comes across (really superficial) doesn't work for me, the hosts don't connect with the audience, and the makeovers aren't anything special. A (C-) show on an otherwise a+ network. And way too much advertising for it on the network. Let it die a quiet death and let's come up with a brand new formula with the right people.
Red Band Society (2014)
Jewel of a Show
What an unexpected treasure! In a world of lowest common denominator television, this show has surprised me with the quality of writing, acting and stories that capture the complexity of life. Laid on the foundation of life in a long term care ward, these stories go quickly into matters that matter...life, death, relationship, meaning, our own relevance as human beings.
The writers seem to have clear insight into the inner life of teens; while many teen shows still stay in the Miley Cyrus era of smart mouth conversation or more superficial focuses, Red Band takes us deeper. There's something about having a boy in a coma offering us a wiser view from the near heavenly realms, teens who are multi-faceted in their strengths and vulnerabilities, and a likable cast who all seem to have heart and soul, contradictory motivations, and complexity, that places this show heads and shoulders above the rest.
As an over-40 year old viewer, I find the dramas and the ways in which they are expressed in each show compelling. The things these teens wrestle with... am I REALLY OK...am I acceptable...lovable... do I fit in, are the same issues that drive much adult behavior. Only in this show, they are refreshingly transparent and somehow find the middle ground between sappy and satirical.
Fox, for the first time in quite awhile, i am engaged with a show and a cast. Please keep this show! And please market it better... I think you'd have a LOT more fans if people actually saw commercials that captured the essence of the show.