This was a well-done series. The episodes started and finished with perfect continuity. I've never read the book, so I had no expectations, no idea how the story would go. I found myself rooting for Emma and Dex as a couple, and (first spoiler) was happy when-finally-they realized what they meant to one another. The supporting cast around Leo Woodall and Ambika Mod were exceptional, very believable, and weren't distractions from the story. Again, I don't know about the book, but I found the roles of the supporting actors compelling, rather than some ensemble cast tropes. I have one complaint, and here is the second spoiler: the graphic way in which Emma's death was portrayed. Anyone who has ever been in a car crash would find that scene triggering their PTSD. The sound of the crash and, perhaps, just the demolished bicycle off to the side would have been plenty. There was no need to see the crash happen and then watch Emma die, lying on the street. That was downright cruel, and it had no bearing on Dex's behaviour in the ensuing episode. He never saw that. His response was strictly to the loss of the love of his life, not the way she died. If I were the producers of this series, I would edit that out.
Reviews
5 Reviews
Action
(1999–2000)
Gone before its time
15 September 2024
Wow. This show was so funny, so clever, and probably hit a little too close to home for the Hollywood set. There were dozens of moments I'll never forget, because I hold them as satirical, comedic standards that other shows should emulate. But, well...Fox. Their cancelled-show graveyard is vast and filled with shows that should have been given a chance. Just like this one. Jay Mohr and Illeana Douglas were so well paired. Jack Plotnick as the put-upon assistant was hilarious. Some of the guest cameos were priceless (esp. Sandra Bullock), and they were having a good time. You could tell. Ah, Fox. I guess this one didn't pencil out for you, but it sure seems like it should have.
Strip Mall
(2000–2001)
Crazy funny
10 October 2023
I know a lot of people thought the show wasn't that good, but it made me laugh soooo much. The different story lines that ran parallel and sometimes intersected were pretty clever. Dark humour? Sure. Cringey at times? Most definitely. But watching some of the characters try to extricate themselves from their disappointing lives at the strip mall led to some hilarious situations. Chris Wylde's character seemed to be the only one having a good time ("Another day of booty duty at Port Porn!"). I hated the way it ended though. It was not only abrupt, but hastily conceived. It was like "Ok, yesterday we got canceled, so today we need to wrap this up in the worst way possible." Made me sad!
Final Space
(2018–2021)
Season 3 dropped the ball
1 July 2023
Warning: Spoilers
I enjoyed the first two seasons immensely. But season 3 became a slog. Did they already know the show wasn't being brought back? Or did everyone just run out of energy? Because the fast pace and quick wit of the first two seasons gave way to the speed of a melodrama and maudlin musings for dialog. I committed to finishing the series, but honestly, it wasn't easy. The final 4-5 episodes could have been condensed into 1-2, and maybe ended the series on a higher note. Instead, each episode is paced like a slow-motion car wreck, with only incremental advancements in the story. The voice actors were top-notch. They did a great job with the lackluster writing. But I cannot imagine bringing this show back for a fourth season without some major tweaks to scripts and directing. I gave it six stars based on the actors and the first two seasons. Watch season 3 at your own peril.
The Last of Us
(2023– )
The Walking Dead with Evil Mushrooms
10 June 2023
Honestly, I don't get what people see in this series. Most of the positive reviews I've read all compare it to the video game. Fair enough. If it holds true to the game, and you liked the game, then I guess this is for you. Not me. I've never played the game. In this case, a zombie is a zombie, and a post-apocalyptic landscape is a post-apocalyptic landscape. I've seen nothing new or original in this story. It's a combination of The Stand and The Walking Dead. Now, I have to admit, the actors are good (the only reason I rated it four stars), and they do an admirable job with what is a predictable script. But unless you're a fan of the video game, I don't see how this show can stand on its own.
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