Jeg_er_Bertie

IMDb member since February 2012
    Lifetime Total
    10+
    Lifetime Plot
    1+
    IMDb Member
    12 years

Ratings

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(1,150 total)


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Reviews

Bad Habits, Holy Orders
(2017)

Underrated "Reality" Gem
I never watch reality-type TV shows (except factual cooking competition shows and old Top Gear episodes). But this was actually neat and well done. It's interesting to see people who are, for the most part, quite self-centered go and live in a convent and see what it means to live a life of service. I am not religious, and the show is quite secular in general, but I still enjoyed it. I'm surprised more seasons/series were never made. These party-girls show up to the convent and don't even realize that's where they're going to stay for the show, so I can empathize with their shock ... but I think the nuns go quite easy on them! Lots of ups and downs, emotions, and frustrations ... but it's a short series and I never felt like I was wasting my time. It wasn't over-done melodrama like most reality tv is. I would recommend it to anyone who is interested in the concept, even if they don't usually watch reality tv.

I can't believe there are under 100 ratings for this show given that it currently streams on Hulu in the US (2024). Give it a chance; it's fun, heartwarming, and a breath of fresh air for reality-style-tv.

Malignant
(2021)

Neat concept, but super corny
The dialogue had me laughing my head off. VERY corny and overuse of clichés. (But maybe that's what they were going for?) Found it predictable, but it could have been really effective if it had a better script. There was definitely some fancy filmmaking and cool music involved. But overall, I was let down by the script, predictability, and overall clichéd/corny dialogue and situations the characters were in. If you ENJOY those things (nothing wrong with that)... You'll enjoy this movie. To me, it was super lame. Sorry, Wan. :(

A Discovery of Witches: Episode #2.5
(2021)
Episode 5, Season 2

Why does Diana need to be Abusive?
She slaps and shoves Matthew across the room in S2E5 and I couldn't be more appalled. What if Matthew had done this to her? We'd call him abusive. This is a double standard. Abuse is abuse. It was a blink-and-you'll-miss-it scene that didn't even need to be in the show. It added nothing to the story except for a lead heroine to perpetuate abusing a significant other. I really enjoyed the show before this, and now I'm turned off. I'm not sure if I want to continue. I don't understand how this got passed the whole cast and crew without someone questioning whether it was abusive or not. It does show how she grows more patient in later episodes, but beyond that there's no need for it. Even if Matthew doesn't mind... It's still abuse. Very disappointed in Diana's behavior.

Pilgrimage
(2017)

Looking Below the Surface
This film provides a great allegory for the violence perpetrated in the name of Christianity and religion in general (especially in Ireland), the fear that accompanies strong faith, and the realization that so much fuss and violence will always be gratuitous when fighting over ... a rock. I loved the simmering pace of the movie, the landscape, and the themes woven throughout the film. This film doesn't preach anything or slap you in the face. It's subtle, like any great "noir" style Irish film (thinking of John Michael McDonagh's Calvary). If you take a step back and truly see what these characters are doing to each other over a rock, it gives perspective and depth. At one point, Armitage's character says he could pick up any rock and say it was Holy, yet he continues to pursue the "real" thing. Great performances all around, especially from Tom Holland, Richard Armitage, and Jon Bernthal who take center stage. Yes, there are only a few people I would recommend this too, but that's simply because there are only a few who I know would tolerate the violence AND understand the underlying themes.

The Aeronauts
(2019)

Not Historical, but Breathtaking
I would have liked it better if it didn't claim to be historical and if they hadn't have used fake film grain. I know very little about film/digital cinematography, and I could tell it was digital trying to look like film. The fake grain was too fuzzy/mobile. Watching on a 4K TV, it just didn't look great. The use of light was gorgeous, though. The story is simple but Jones's character showed a great balance of strength and vulnerability. Redmayne's character did, too, in his own way. A beautiful display of human vices and virtues. Thoroughly enjoyed letting this film take my breath away many times, with both beauty and suspense.

Nancy Drew
(2019)

Riverdale Lite 2.0 - Generic & Lame
Why is it so difficult to successfully modernize Nancy Drew? It's difficult to balance the integrity an established character with what filmmakers perceive as the desires of a modern audience. Today, it seems a female character cannot be considered a strong feminist icon unless she has the sexual appetite of James Bond.

Nancy's character was flat and generic; she lacked integrity. Nancy Drew wouldn't disrespect Carson Drew and scream about wishing she could get a new father. "They're not my friends," she says with a childish sneer. That is NOT my Nancy Drew. Nancy Drew isn't cynical, grumpy, and immature.

This adaption has no camaraderie between characters. While it's possible Nick/Ned, Bess, George, and Nancy will all become friends as the season progresses, their pettiness makes them difficult to respect, let alone admire. I'd like to see good friendships to aspire to, not outlandish drama and snooty characters.

The last decent detective-style show from the CW was Veronica Mars, and even it had major flaws... but at least Veronica was likable, spunky, and ambitious.

I've been hoping for a modern Nancy Drew, but this isn't it. The only resemblance to Nancy Drew are the character names. Nancy Drew is a force to be reckoned with... a spunky teen detective... and most importantly, a role model. I wouldn't recommend this show to anyone, let alone show it to my daughter.

Primarily, this adaption suffers from bad writing and unenlightened producers.

Lost in Space
(2018)

Charming, Gripping, Cinematic
I'm just as tired of reboots as everyone else, but this was done with care, bringing it in to the 21st century. It holds up against other sci fi I enjoy, like Doctor Who, The Expanse, etc. And it's rate PG?! Seriously. It's so great for a PG show. I never watch anything PG, but I'm glad I took a chance on this show. The visuals are great. At first, I thought the dialogue/characters were a little stuffy, but once you get their background stories, it absolutely shines and makes sense. The action is non-stop and is constantly tense with the family's struggle to survive, even up to the closing scene of the season. Overall, this is a well done production with high cinematic value, and is great for the whole family.

Doctor Who: The Woman Who Fell to Earth
(2018)
Episode 1, Season 11

Brilliant Debut
The direction and cinematography added suspense. The characters were likeable and encouraged sentimental feelings towards the end. Tears were shed, here. Jodie Whittaker's energy was electric and addictive. It is similar to the energy and caring nature previously brought to the role by David Tennant. The writing was refreshingly new and the alien was disgustingly perfect. I am so enthused and excited that season 11 is off to such a strong start. I am looking forward to getting to know the ew Doctor and her companions.

Snow Cake
(2006)

Simply Lovely.
I stumbled upon Snow Cake several years ago and it became and instant favorite. It's a story of realistic people, in sadly real circumstances, finding little moments of happiness in an otherwise difficult world. I don't understand why this film isn't more popular or why it isn't on a streaming service. It is touching, intimate, and inspiring. The story is fairly simple, yet it's like nothing else I've ever watched.

Impulse
(2018)

Suspense Not Held Back
When I first saw the trailer for this, I thought it would have the same teenager-y tone as Riverdale or Pretty Little Liars. I was happy to be proven wrong. This show doesn't hold back. It is soaked in the same tone as shows like Orphan Black, Ozark, and Jessica Jones. Several reviewers commented on the lead being an annoying teenager; I didn't have this issue. She carried the same rebellion as the lead in Orphan Black. Her personality is edgy but refreshing. She isn't a princess. She isn't a superhero. Another reviewer mentioned Impulse couldn't decide between 'teenage drama' or 'superhero story.' I didn't see it as either. The show made a clear, obvious point to mention that she wasn't a budding superhero. The binary sentiment of hero versus villain is nowhere to be found. The show sits in a beautiful gray area that feels human and natural. I'm eagerly awaiting a second season. Binge-worthy to say the least.

Picnic at Hanging Rock
(2018)

Pleasingly Bold Style Choices
The story line, to me, was a bit lacking. However, I loved the stylistic cinematography and the music. They suited the production well. Visually -- it really drew me in. Some scenes felt a little over-acted, but overall I was pleased with spending 6hrs on this, but I can't see myself wanting to watch it a second time.

The Terror
(2018)

Chilling and Atmospheric
The Terror's compelling story is perfectly supported by the dark, chilling, and perfectly eerie atmosphere. The veteran cast members, usually seen on UK shows, are excellent. Particularly, Harris and Menzies carry the weight of their character's situation very well. This show is mildly high brow in a good way. Fans of Taboo, Fortitude, Requiem, and Trapped may enjoy. The tension and chill is wonderful. Absolutely love this program.

Treasures from the Wreck of the Unbelievable
(2017)

Uncovering 'Unbelievable" History
Like others, I assumed this was a factual documentary up to the end. (However, I follow a lot of science and history news, and was confused how I had never heard about this before). Not only that, but there were several instances where I was convinced (during the first half) that this was a docu-drama. There are a few things Hirst mentions about history which gives the film some support. History is highly subjective and "written by the winners," as the phrase goes. I do not view this film as a test of gullibility, but rather, as a way for people to consider that the truths of history, in the end, are almost always skewed due to subjectivity. Some of the artwork is stunning, but it gets out of hand. Although, knowing this is not real, I will have a hard time recommending it to others, especially people who are not familiar with Hirst's work. I barely knew about him from a previous documentary I saw covering his artwork.

Tom Segura: Disgraceful
(2018)

Crude, Morally Corrupt
I am a fan of many comedians who are not politically correct, but when a joke was made about Down Syndrome on this show, they took it a step too far. There's no reason to single out a community of amazing people and offend them in this way. Feeling, living, human beings with Down Syndrome should not be belittled; Tom Segura and Netflix are making money at their expense, and that is sincerely morally corrupt. Comedians can be funny without belittling a whole community of people, their families, and loved ones. I suggest Netflix find better comedians to bankroll.

The Grand Tour
(2016)

Not Taken for Granted!
Clarkson, Hammond, and May have all three made a name for themselves in the motoring world. Along with Andy Wilman and Richard Porter, they created a format for expressing their passion for cars years ago. With The Grand Tour, that passion has been refined into the most entertaining automotive program ever. Each of the three hosts are talented in their own way and allow their personality to be highlighted, unabashedly. Yes, their sense of humor may seem childish to some, but what's the point of life if you're so serious all of the time? These three know that they have one of the best jobs in the world, and they don't seem to take it for granted. This show is not written for people who want to know the science and development behind each car they feature; after all, that's what documentaries are for. The Grand Tour is not a documentary. It's made to make you laugh, feel inspired, and to dream big. It takes the essence of what it means to love cars and captures it perfectly. It's the perfect embodiment of that ten year old kid who sees a Lamborghini in person for the first time. It's a show about the rush of joy you people get from loving cars. Clarkson, Hammond, and May make million dollar cars accessible to all of us and that is something I do not take for granted. Not all segments are perfect or will suit everyone, but there's usually a little something for everyone. That's why it's made in the platform that it is. They do a great job at appealing to many different people, and that is one of the reasons why their programming has been such a success. Many of the people who work on this show (besides the three obvious people) are incredibly talented. The quality of the cinematography cannot be denied. The Grand Tour is filmed in 4K and deservedly so. It's a beautiful program. Whether you like cars, travel, humor, passion, silly celebrity games, or entertainment in general, this show is hard to pass up.

Fallen
(2016)

Just Bad Luck!
I am not sure what pushed back the release, why it wasn't really advertised, or why no larger production companies ever got on board, but it seems like bad luck. The film itself lacked much dialogue. I read the first three books in this series when they came out and found this film to be similar enough to the books. (For example, I believe this film is more similar to the book than the Percy Jackson adaptions). Because of the lack of good writing and special effects, the movie felt unsupported like a baby bird that has fallen from the nest. The most seasoned actor, Joely Richardson, played her part well along with Addison Timlin (Luce) and Daisy Head (Arriane). The rest of the cast seemed easily replaceable. I feel that with adequate writers and directors, a television series would have been better suited for this book series (given its extensive nature); however, this film was lacking any true direction. The soundtrack and score felt outdated and could have fit easily into a 90s horror film. The whole film felt like it combated bad luck and lagged timing. For what it was, I would give it a weak six. Others compared the film to Twilight, and I agree with that sentiment; though, I don't think this was quite that bad. It is worth a watch for fans of Young Adult films like Twilight or shows on the CW network and Freeform network.

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