Reviews

I have been watching This is Us since its inception in 2016. The acting is superior, the writing is on point and the characters are all too human.

This is Us follows the lives of Jack and Rebecca Pearson and their three children as they navigate the big events and little things of life. The show begins in 1980 and takes you on an unforgettable journey (which uses flashbacks and time hopping effectively) that is a valentine to family, love, relationships and life. We get to know them as individuals and as a family unit, celebrating success and experiencing the ups, downs and tragedies that make up a life. You will see yourself, your parents or your family in these characters as they experience joy, heartbreak, success and failure. Every episode I've seen has made me think and made me cry - especially the final season, which hit home as I have experienced the same tragedy that the Pearson family is facing.

A special shout out to Mandy Moore who embodies the character of Rebecca from the 1970's to the present with grace and sensitivity.

I really wanted to like this show, since I love Josh Henderson from Desperate Housewives and the Dallas re-boot, but the casting of Christine Evangelista as the leading lady, Megan Morrison, just ruined this show. I watched the first four episodes but found her performance to be cringe-worthy. Surely, they could have found a better actress to play the part. She totally spoiled the show for me.

Don't waste your time - so sad, this could have been great with the right actress in the role. She is UNWATCHABLE.

HBO's new limited series, Big Little Lies, is simply outstanding in every way. The casting is perfect - Reese Witherspoon as Madeline, Shailene Woodley as Jane and the always fabulous Nicole Kidman as Celeste - three very different mothers residing in the ultra wealthy enclave of Monterey, California. The show also focuses on Renata (a tense, edgy performance by Laura Dern and the families of the four main characters. James Tupper, Adam Scott, James Nordling turn in great performances, but Alexander Skaarsgard really shines as Perry, Celeste's troubled, volatile husband.

Without giving away the plot, the show is part is Desperate Housewives part Knots Landing and part Secrets and Lies in that it's a drama, a soap and a mystery, all rolled into one delicious package.

Beautiful cinematography and an amazing soundtrack add to the enjoyment. I just binge-watched the first three episodes and they left me wanting more. Just watch it - it's the show you've been waiting for...