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True Detective: Night Country is a gripping and atmospheric thriller that takes the anthology series to new heights. Set in the remote and unforgiving Alaskan wilderness, the show follows two detectives who must overcome their personal and professional differences to solve a mysterious case that involves a missing research team, a severed tongue, and a possible connection to an unsolved murder of a native activist.

Jodie Foster delivers a stunning performance as Detective Liz Danvers, a hardened and cold cop who has been exiled to the small town of Ennis for her attitude and past failures. Foster portrays Danvers as a complex and flawed character who struggles with her own demons and regrets, but also shows glimpses of compassion and vulnerability. She is matched by Kali Reis, who plays Evangeline Navarro, a state trooper of Iñupiat descent who is obsessed with finding justice for the slain activist, Annie. Reis brings a fierce energy to Navarro, who clashes with Danvers over their methods and motives, but also develops a grudging respect and understanding for her partner.

The show is written and directed by Issa López, who creates a captivating and chilling vision of Alaska as a place of both isolation and freedom, beauty and danger, darkness and light. The cinematography is stunning, capturing the stark contrast between the snowy landscapes and the cozy interiors, the eerie silence and the sudden bursts of violence, the long night and the brief dawn. The soundtrack is also haunting, featuring a mix of native songs, folk tunes, and ambient sounds that enhance the mood and tension of the story.

The series starts off unpredictable, weaving together elements of crime, mystery, and supernatural horror. Reminding me of the film Seven & X-Files. The show explores themes such as identity, culture, history, trauma, and redemption, as well as the environmental and social issues facing Alaska and its native people. The show also pays homage to the previous seasons of True Detective, with references and Easter eggs that fans will appreciate, but also stands on its own as a unique and original story.

True Detective: Night Country is a must-watch for fans of the genre and the series, as well as for anyone looking for a thrilling and immersive TV experience. It is one of the best shows of the year, and a worthy addition to the True Detective legacy.

Cinnamon is a thrilling and stylish genre neo-noir film that pays homage to the 70's blaxploitation classics and who done-it films. Directed by Bryian Keith Montgomery Jr., the film follows Jodi Jackson (Hailey Kilgore), a gas station attendant and aspiring singer who gets caught up in a robbery and a dangerous web of crime and betrayal. The film features a stellar cast of veteran actors, such as Damon Wayans as Wally, the shady convenience store owner who owes money to the wrong people, and Pam Grier as Mama, the ruthless leader of a criminal organization who will stop at nothing to get what she wants. The film also showcases the talents of young actors like David Iacono as Eddie, Jodi's loyal boyfriend and music manager, and Jeremie Harris as James, Mama's son and enforcer. The film is filled with twists and turns, as well as witty dialogue and memorable characters. The film also boasts a catchy soundtrack that blends soul, funk and hip hop, creating a perfect mood for the story. Cinnamon is a film that Quentin Tarantino would have loved to make, and that fans of his films will surely enjoy. It is a tribute to the genre that made Pam Grier a star, and a showcase for the new generation of actors who are ready to take on the mantle. Cinnamon is a spicy and satisfying film that will leave you wanting more.

Sabastian (2023) is a gripping horror crime thriller written and directed by Mann Robinson. The film follows Irene (Jamie Bernadette), a journalist who flees an abusive relationship only to find herself in the crosshairs of a serial killer (Luca Della Valle). The film switches between the present and the past, revealing Irene's traumatic history with her ex-boyfriend and how it affects her ability to trust anyone, especially the charming and obsessive Sabastian. Bernadette and Della Valle give stellar performances as the prey and the predator, creating a tense and twisted dynamic that keeps the audience on edge. Torrie Hart and Darius McCrary are also convincing as the detectives who try to catch Sabastian before he kills again, while Clifton Powell adds some humor as their boss. The film has a dark and gritty aesthetic that suits the mood and the setting, and the music is haunting and atmospheric. Sabastian is a must-watch for fans of horror and crime thrillers, as it offers a fresh and original take on the genre.

I like the uneasiness. Location perfect, messy, real and not clean...I hate clean art, life's complicated no perfect roads to take (the opening shot, a metaphor?) I would like to see more.

I don't get the reviews, I expected to hate it but a friend said to watch. She was right, "brilliant" even with some of the messy shots and flaws in the pilot which adds more character.

Word to the creator, keep it as is...keep the crew small, keep it raw...it creates intimacy among the crew and it allows more latitude to play.

The master shot at the end, sweet...would make a nice poster of Martha.

I would have to disagree with a few comments...I totally got what she's doing as a filmmaker. She's become the filmmaker, not just someone interviewing and walking away from a set...it becomes more intimate.

No huge crews, just her a camera, sound person and another camera. The viewer doesn't understand once you bring on a huge crew, etc...it takes away the intimacy with the interviewer...it allows the person who is being interviewed to become relaxed, very docu-style...indie filmmakers get this...I work with filmmakers who request small crews and very little people onset to focus on the filmmaking process.

Smaller cameras, easier lighting, small sound equipment is allowing filmmakers to get a better performance and more intimate setting.

I was taken in with all the episodes, so much, I binged watched a few in a roll.

Kudos---