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Reviews
The Acolyte: Lost/Found (2024)
Brilliant pilot captures the essence of Star Wars
The pilot episode of The Acolyte was absolutely brilliant - it truly captured the essence of Star Wars for me.
The casting is exceptional, with Amandla Stenberg standing out - very watchable. Charlie Barnett's portrayal of Yord introduces a refreshing dynamic (and a touch of sex appeal!) to the Jedi Order. Lee Jung-jae is captivating, his line delivery leaving you hanging on every word.
The production design is arguably the best of any Star Wars show to date, and the costumes perfectly evoke the prequel era in the best possible way. Both special and practical effects are executed superbly, and the choreography is sharp and utterly mesmerising. You really get a sense of the Jedi in their prime.
I thoroughly enjoyed the pacing of this episode - pilots often have a lot of ground to cover, but this one managed it seamlessly. Michael Abels' score beautifully channels the spirit of the prequel era.
The only drawback was the somewhat abrupt ending, which cost it a star in my rating. Nonetheless, it's a solid start to the series, and I'm incredibly excited for what's to come.
Obi-Wan Kenobi: Part II (2022)
A sold second episode!
Part 2 of Obi Wan Kenobi is more action packed that first but just as enthralling.
The Obi Wan/Leia dynamic is brilliant, I could watch a whole season of the two of them together.
What a fantastic young actor they have found to play Leia. Many are saying she is too young to play a 10 year old, but I'd disagree, she plays a young feisty Leia perfectly. She was 9 years old when shooting - so not exactly far off the character's age!
A surprise reveal at the end of the episode gives you goosebumps. Roll on episode 3!
Obi-Wan Kenobi: Part I (2022)
An excellent first episode that's worth the wait!
The Obi Wan Kenobi series has been a while in the making, but it was worth the wait. The first episode shines as we dive into Kenobi's life 10 years after Revenge of the Sith.
The direction was strong, and coupled with the brilliant score made the whole episode feel very cinematic.
Ewan McGregor takes to the role like he never left. He is Obi Wan through and through.
The Inquisitors genuinely felt threatening, each with their own villainous trait.
For me, this episode began bridging the gap perfectly between 'Revenge of the Sith' and 'A New Hope'.
Really excited to see where this story goes and what surprises await us. An excellent opening episode that leaves you wanting more!
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (2008)
The weakest of the Indy films, but that ain't a bad thing!
Yes I'd say that out of all four films this is probably the weakest in terms of story and character. However, this doesn't mean the film is bad, in fact, I found it fun!
ACTING: The acting was average in my opinion. Shia LaBeouf does a pretty decent job as Indy's son and brings a twist to the adventure. What I liked most was how Shia and Harrison had similar chemistry as that of Harrison and Sean Connery.
Harrison Ford maybe 60-something, but he's still got it! He has the same moves, witty expressions and charm like he did the previous three films. The only problem I had with Ford is his voice. Personally I thought it was his voice that made him appear old rather than his looks. But still, forget what the critics say, Harrison Ford puts all the energy he has into Indiana and should be praised!
Also looking her age is Karen Allen. Though I'm not a fan of her acting, her entrance scene was fantastic and takes you back to the very first film.
Cate Blanchett, Ray Winstone, John Hurt and Jim Broadbent all do a great job acting-wise too. However, there was not spark in any of them that made their characters stand out.
CGI & EFFECTS: I would just like to say that Steven Spielberg said he would only use CGI if it was necessary, and boy was it necessary!
Almost all the fight scenes were shot just as they were in the last three films, with no aid of computer generated image. But there are scenes in the film that require heavy CGI and special effects. Yes most people find this a bit tasteless, but I'd say it is most likely the best CGI I have seen in the last few years. I will be very surprised if its not up for a BAFTA or Oscar for best visual effects.
STORY/WRITING/DIRECTING: The story, I think, is what makes this film the weakest of all four Indiana films. It just has no pattern and its completely over the top in some scenes. The problem with the story is that its too far fetched. I mean the scene with the atomic bomb and Indy hiding in a fridge and happens to be perfectly fine after. It just put me off for a few minutes after that scene.
The writing isn't too bad actually. The script is still witty and keeps the same level of excitement the other films have.
The directing wasn't Spielberg's best of late. He is one of my favourite directors, but I think he thought Indiana may be good enough to direct itself. But Steven, this one is really not. However this hasn't put me off him, he has directed some of my all time favourite movies. Everyone's allowed a few mistakes!
OVERALL: Overall, like I said before, this film is the weakest of all four. But a lot of people are taking it far to seriously. Spielberg and Lucas both said before production that The Kingdom of the Crystal Skull is to celebrate the Indiana Jones series and have a little fun! And its done just that!
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull 7/10
Bionic Woman (2007)
A refreshing show!
I am truly shocked at the amount of negative reviews Bionic Woman has had. I must say, its not an outstanding series, but after watching the first three episodes I was hooked.
I had never heard of Bionic Woman before this show aired and to my surprise it's been very refreshing. Apart from Lost and Supernatural, anything to come out of America since Buffy the Vampire Slayer has failed to grab my attention.
Michelle Ryan does a wonderful job as the Bionic Woman, as well as an older sister. Moving from a soap-opera in the UK to a massive US series is difficult but I think she has pulled it off! The music, effects and acting are spot on. Give Bionic Woman a chance, watch the first three episodes, and you'll be hooked!
After Thomas (2006)
A true story about a couple's struggles to meet the challenges of their son's autism.
Kyle Graham is scared. Not of monsters under the bed like any average six year old but of everything. Normal, everyday activities prove terrifying to him.
And he can't communicate his fears, or share them with friends, because he can't use language and he has no friends.
Kyle is autistic, a condition it took his parents two desperate years to get diagnosed. So his day consists of endless traumas and tantrums
and unimaginable stress for his mum and dad Nicola and Rob.
Nicola's fierce determination to break into Kyle's world at any cost has placed an intolerable strain on her marriage. And, her only respite is the unwavering support of her mother Pat and father Jim, who dote on Kyle.
Into this setting of seemingly insurmountable conflict comes Thomas, a golden retriever puppy, named after Kyle's favourite character, Thomas The Tank Engine.
By the time Thomas is a fully grown dog, Nicola and Rob are hopeful of a breakthrough where all other attempts have failed.
The unexpected and devastating blow of Pat's death only strengthens their resolve.
But when Thomas becomes ill, the family fear that the progress Kyle has made is about to unravel
A truly touching story and one that will stick in your mind for a long time indeed.