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altheafjones
Reviews
Christmas Collision (2021)
Not Engaging
This movie is unappealing. First, Theodora's character was way too harsh in the beginning 10-15 minutes. Made it easy not to care about her or to even wish something bad would happened. Should have started attitude at a lower level.
Second, the dialogue was a new kind of cliche- yes, we've heard it before, but at least it fit- not so with this movie. Seemed like writers grabbed lines they liked or were familiar with and then tried to force them to into random scenes. The writing also negatively impacted the story development. Plot points were disjointed as well, no cohesion.
Reminds me of brainstorming meetings where everyone is too buzzed to be authentically productive and know they need to rework it in the morning when people are sober, but in this case that didn't happen.
Found (2023)
Wow! More Than Expected
Didn't expect to be wowed, but at the pilot's end all I kept thinking was "wow". This is so intriguing. There was one point in the first episode where I thought the dialogue and even the acting was a little lame, but that's a couple of minutes that are more compensated for by the rest of the episode. Also, there's something revealed in that scene that adds to the overall plot of the show, yet not in an obvious way which kind of makes its "lameness" a campy inside joke. People might think it's bad but those paying close attention will get it. Thoughtful, attentive viewing is the key. Don't go looking for the fast paced, action oriented cop drama and miss the complex psychological thriller, because they're operating on different planes. While the former may be present, the latter is the true flesh and bones of the show.
This Is Christmas (2022)
Heartwarming and Inspiring
A really cute, feel good movie with worthy characterization. Reminds of the importance of getting to know people before passing judgement and maybe not pass judgement at all. Also hints at the importance of interacting with people more and with devices less.
Different take on "strangers on a train". Interactions between characters develop slowly, but this is perfect for what seems to be the movie's theme- strangers are just friends we haven't met yet, and of course, developing friendships, relationships, take time and effort. The plot development reflects that as well; we are drawn into these characters' stories as they get know each other. It's a truly beautiful movie about community and the complexity of being in human relationships, but it doesn't overwhelm or depress the audience.
Ozzy (2016)
Worth Watching With Children
Not as bad as some described. Great conversation starter for talking about making difficult choices, meaning of friendship, loyalty, having good character, self sacrifice, and lots more with children. Animation is early Scooby Do; dialogue is good; characterization is very good; and plot moves along enjoyably well. Shouldn't be scary for children and can easily be relatable to their school experiences. Won't watch again for myself alone but would not hesitate to watch again with young children who want to see it.
It's really an 8 to me, but gave a 10 to offset extremely low ratings that seemed too critical.
That's My Jam (2021)
Few Hits Lots of Misses
While there have been some good moments, mostly it's not entertaining. Show tries SO hard to be funny and appear popular that it feels like a scam- celebrities increasing their revenue stream and getting public attention. Wanted it to work, just doesn't.
Maybe they should have done more audience testing, especially across a spectrum since the musical games tend to mix music genres. Ironically, the celebrity guests actually do cross a spectrum. Actors, young and older, popular and not so well known singers from multiple genres, and comedians make up the contestants. So, it just makes sense that they should have done broader research before the launch. Show doesn't know what it is or who its audience is. Just doesn't work.