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Television is the New Television: The Unexpected Triumph of Old Media in the Digital Age
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Twenty years after the Netscape IPO, ten years after the birth of YouTube, and five years after the...
BankofMarquis (1832 KP) rated tick, tick...Boom! (2021) in Movies
Jan 11, 2022
A Love Letter
If you ever worked on a live theater performance, whether as a performer, tech crew, make-up, costumes, box office, etc…the Netflix Original film tick, tick…BOOM is for you.
If you are a theater lover, the Netflix Original film tick, tick…BOOM is for you.
If you are not interested in live theater at all..then, perhaps, tick, tick…BOOM might be a little too “inside baseball” for you.
Based on the one man concert/show/performance by the late Jonathan Larson, the writer of the the Pulitzer Prize winning musical RENT, tick, tick…BOOM expands this performance piece and turns it into a biopic of the artist who passed as his hit musical was just about ready to debut.
As written by Steven Levenson and Directed by Lin-Manuel Miranda, tick, tick…BOOM is a love letter to Broadway, to artists struggling to make it in the Great White Way, to the community of disaffected peoples in 1990 and, mostly, to Jonathan Larson himself.
Andrew Garfield is transcendent in his portrayal of Larson. He embodies this character with love, ambition, focus, flaws and a surprisingly strong singing voice. It is an Oscar-nomination worthy performance.
He is joined, lovingly, by a strong supporting cast starting with Alexandra Shipp (as Larson’s girlfriend), Robin de Jesus (as his best friend) and Vanessa Hudgens (as a performer in the show, called Superbia, that he is trying to get up on the boards). These young performers are joined by a couple of wily veterans including Judith Light (as his Agent) and Bradley Whitford (as the late Stephen Sondheim). They bring energy, star power and…yes…love…to the screen.
And that is what this film ultimately is, a love letter to all of the artists (both on-stage and off) that try, despite immeasurable odds, to get a show on it’s feet. Director Miranda infuses this film with homages to theater - and theater people - and sprinkles in some very good songs that drives this point home.
None of the numbers hit home as hard as the “Diner” song - a song that features many, many Broadway performers, both new and old, that were either inspirations to Larson - or were inspired by him (including Miranda himself).
Come for the musical, stay for the outstanding performance of Garfield, and immerse yourself into the world of struggling artists in NYC in the 1990’s. You’ll be glad you did.
Letter Grade: A-
8 stars (out of 10) and you can take that to the Bank(ofMarquis)
If you are a theater lover, the Netflix Original film tick, tick…BOOM is for you.
If you are not interested in live theater at all..then, perhaps, tick, tick…BOOM might be a little too “inside baseball” for you.
Based on the one man concert/show/performance by the late Jonathan Larson, the writer of the the Pulitzer Prize winning musical RENT, tick, tick…BOOM expands this performance piece and turns it into a biopic of the artist who passed as his hit musical was just about ready to debut.
As written by Steven Levenson and Directed by Lin-Manuel Miranda, tick, tick…BOOM is a love letter to Broadway, to artists struggling to make it in the Great White Way, to the community of disaffected peoples in 1990 and, mostly, to Jonathan Larson himself.
Andrew Garfield is transcendent in his portrayal of Larson. He embodies this character with love, ambition, focus, flaws and a surprisingly strong singing voice. It is an Oscar-nomination worthy performance.
He is joined, lovingly, by a strong supporting cast starting with Alexandra Shipp (as Larson’s girlfriend), Robin de Jesus (as his best friend) and Vanessa Hudgens (as a performer in the show, called Superbia, that he is trying to get up on the boards). These young performers are joined by a couple of wily veterans including Judith Light (as his Agent) and Bradley Whitford (as the late Stephen Sondheim). They bring energy, star power and…yes…love…to the screen.
And that is what this film ultimately is, a love letter to all of the artists (both on-stage and off) that try, despite immeasurable odds, to get a show on it’s feet. Director Miranda infuses this film with homages to theater - and theater people - and sprinkles in some very good songs that drives this point home.
None of the numbers hit home as hard as the “Diner” song - a song that features many, many Broadway performers, both new and old, that were either inspirations to Larson - or were inspired by him (including Miranda himself).
Come for the musical, stay for the outstanding performance of Garfield, and immerse yourself into the world of struggling artists in NYC in the 1990’s. You’ll be glad you did.
Letter Grade: A-
8 stars (out of 10) and you can take that to the Bank(ofMarquis)
BobbiesDustyPages (1259 KP) rated Marvel's The Defenders - Season 1 in TV
Aug 30, 2017
Action packed (1 more)
Good plot
Iron fist (4 more)
Iron fist
Iron fist
Kind of dull at times
Iron fist
Dysfunctional bunch of assholes that you want to have a drink with
The Defenders was a lot of fun to watch with some really awesome action sequences that I've come to associate with Marvel/Netflix while story is nothing new it was still fun to watch and to see The Defenders come together was really awesome(except for Iron fist). For me Jessica Jones was really the stand out from the group and really saved this season for me.
You really feel the shorts season with this one and since they waited so long for them to come together the last few episodes felt a but rushed so I do wish they would have extended the season to the normal 13 episodes I feel like it really would have helped the pacing of the season.
If you couldn't tell I really truly hated Iron Fist with a passion he was such an obnoxious epitome of rich white male privilege and he really did drag this season down for me since almost every time he was on screen I found my focus drifting off. I will admit I did enjoy his interactions with Luke Cage.
You really feel the shorts season with this one and since they waited so long for them to come together the last few episodes felt a but rushed so I do wish they would have extended the season to the normal 13 episodes I feel like it really would have helped the pacing of the season.
If you couldn't tell I really truly hated Iron Fist with a passion he was such an obnoxious epitome of rich white male privilege and he really did drag this season down for me since almost every time he was on screen I found my focus drifting off. I will admit I did enjoy his interactions with Luke Cage.
Paul Smedley (141 KP) rated Fire TV Stick with Alexa Voice Remote in Tech
Sep 30, 2018
Faster (2 more)
Higher Quality Resolution
Massive amount of content
Much better than G1
Well I won this beauty in the giveaway and used it quite a bit lately before giving a review.
I already had the first generation firestick so knew how they worked but wanted one with the voice search function to accompany my Sky Q box that does the same.
Not only is the Alexa voice search function good but I also found that the resolution is better, the speed is better and the load up is quicker!
The load up is still slower than a Sky box or Netflix on my smart TV but it’s the home to great shows such as Preacher which I highly recommend.
Overall, if you’re looking for a firestick then this model is the one to go for for speed and access to the great programmes and films available through Amazon Prime.
Setup is extremely easy, a PIN can be used to stop little ones going on anything not age appropriate or to stop any unauthorised purchases plus it’s interface is easy enough for children to use to watch kids programmes or even play some android games on!
Top product, top present and even better as I got it through Smashbomb’s giveaway!!!
I already had the first generation firestick so knew how they worked but wanted one with the voice search function to accompany my Sky Q box that does the same.
Not only is the Alexa voice search function good but I also found that the resolution is better, the speed is better and the load up is quicker!
The load up is still slower than a Sky box or Netflix on my smart TV but it’s the home to great shows such as Preacher which I highly recommend.
Overall, if you’re looking for a firestick then this model is the one to go for for speed and access to the great programmes and films available through Amazon Prime.
Setup is extremely easy, a PIN can be used to stop little ones going on anything not age appropriate or to stop any unauthorised purchases plus it’s interface is easy enough for children to use to watch kids programmes or even play some android games on!
Top product, top present and even better as I got it through Smashbomb’s giveaway!!!
Jessica Erdas (463 KP) rated Conversations With A Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes in TV
Jan 26, 2019
An interesting look into the mind of a killer
This Netflix original details the killing spree enacted by Ted Bundy and his downward spiral. Very interesting for those curious about the actions of serial killers. Some of the details are pretty hard to swallow, as would be expected of any story where murders are committed. I think one of the most interesting parts to the show was being able to see his mannerisms, arrogance, and even his voice as he denied his guilt despite tantamount evidence against him. Ted Bundy was a killer who completely flipped profiling on its head; before him there were common misconceptions that a serial killer was an unattractive, uneducated, and socially inept person but after his atrocities were exposed, it forced members of law enforcement to look deeper into the kinds of people who committed such crimes against humanity. It was also very interesting to see the effect the trials had on his mother and her tearful pleas to avoid the death penalty. I didn't feel that it incited any sympathy for Bundy but it kind of opens your eyes to the destruction of a family, regardless. A testament to a mother's love, even to those we don't feel deserve it.
David McK (3562 KP) rated Daredevil by Brian Michael Bendis & Alex Maleev: Ultimate Collection, Book 1 in Books
Jan 30, 2019
So: Daredevil.
AKA MAtt Murdock: Blind Lawyer by day, Vigilante by night.
And a character that, unlike (say) your Superman or Spiderman or Batman's, only really came to my attention with the (so-so) 2003 movie of the same name, and the more recent (and better) Marvel Netflix series'.
I'd also never read any of the comics/graphic novels before, although I knew that the TV series, in particular, drew heavily from that source, but had heard good things about them. With all that said, I thought I would take a risk on this particular collection (purchased, and read, via Comixology on my iPad) to see what all the fuss was about.
And, at first, I wasn't overwhelmed - I found the first story arc just so-so, and couldn't really get to grips with the art-style.
However, things picked up (for me) once the collection went back to a more conventional art style, with the whole story arc around the attempted coup against the Kingpin, followed by his estranged wife's revenge, then by the outing of Murdock's secret identity (wow!) and the trial of the Costumed Superhero (not him) that follows a succession of whammies (for want of a better word) one after the other ...
More, please!
AKA MAtt Murdock: Blind Lawyer by day, Vigilante by night.
And a character that, unlike (say) your Superman or Spiderman or Batman's, only really came to my attention with the (so-so) 2003 movie of the same name, and the more recent (and better) Marvel Netflix series'.
I'd also never read any of the comics/graphic novels before, although I knew that the TV series, in particular, drew heavily from that source, but had heard good things about them. With all that said, I thought I would take a risk on this particular collection (purchased, and read, via Comixology on my iPad) to see what all the fuss was about.
And, at first, I wasn't overwhelmed - I found the first story arc just so-so, and couldn't really get to grips with the art-style.
However, things picked up (for me) once the collection went back to a more conventional art style, with the whole story arc around the attempted coup against the Kingpin, followed by his estranged wife's revenge, then by the outing of Murdock's secret identity (wow!) and the trial of the Costumed Superhero (not him) that follows a succession of whammies (for want of a better word) one after the other ...
More, please!
Veronica Pena (690 KP) rated The Shawshank Redemption (1994) in Movies
Mar 2, 2020
I have heard so many things about this movie over the years, I was wondering if it would live up to the hype. I was a little worried it wouldn't, so I've been avoiding it for so long. And it hasn't been available to watch anywhere for free until it came out on Netflix.
I am so glad I watched this film. There is nothing about it I didn't like. It felt like every character was important, there was a story to tell. I loved Morgan Freeman's narration and his performance as Red. Andy is brilliant and kind and cunning and a good friend and a great teacher. Norton is everything the criminal justice system is and shouldn't be. I am floored.
There are very few movies that after I see it, I have to own it. It's only happened a few times and the bar is very high. This film is one of those. I can't recommend it enough. It is a great watch with a great plot and a rolling story that never leaves you hanging. This is easily moving to the top 10 movies I adore - it might even hold the number one spot right now. Watch. This. Film.
I am so glad I watched this film. There is nothing about it I didn't like. It felt like every character was important, there was a story to tell. I loved Morgan Freeman's narration and his performance as Red. Andy is brilliant and kind and cunning and a good friend and a great teacher. Norton is everything the criminal justice system is and shouldn't be. I am floored.
There are very few movies that after I see it, I have to own it. It's only happened a few times and the bar is very high. This film is one of those. I can't recommend it enough. It is a great watch with a great plot and a rolling story that never leaves you hanging. This is easily moving to the top 10 movies I adore - it might even hold the number one spot right now. Watch. This. Film.
High school drama (1 more)
Mystery murder
Hooked!
This dramatic Spanish program couldn't be more gripping. Although it is filmed in Spain the voices are spoken over in English and as annoying as it is it's subtitled too and they don't always match up to what they are saying, but all the same its kept me hooked.
It all starts when three poor students school collapsed and they are sent off to a rich private school where they are clearly not welcomed. Season one is all about a murder and trying to figure out who did it and why they died, it's a brilliant story and I managed to get lost in it, there is something for everyone to relate to. Typical high school drama between popular kids poor kids and a murderer. Season two was equally as good and gripping as the first one with the story unravelling and people are breaking and the truth comes out. I have just started season three and again couldn't be more engrossed.
If you've seen share your thoughts
I had to make this myself as it wasn't under the TV review section. Netflix Original
It all starts when three poor students school collapsed and they are sent off to a rich private school where they are clearly not welcomed. Season one is all about a murder and trying to figure out who did it and why they died, it's a brilliant story and I managed to get lost in it, there is something for everyone to relate to. Typical high school drama between popular kids poor kids and a murderer. Season two was equally as good and gripping as the first one with the story unravelling and people are breaking and the truth comes out. I have just started season three and again couldn't be more engrossed.
If you've seen share your thoughts
I had to make this myself as it wasn't under the TV review section. Netflix Original
Sarah (7800 KP) rated Stranger Things - Season 2 in TV
Aug 4, 2019
Another great series
I binge watched this entire series in one day, and it really was rather entertaining. The first episodes start off rather slowly, but this at least gives a chance to catch up with the returning characters and introduce some new faces. It soon picks up though, and is packed full on intrigue, humour, some rather dark moments and of course a pretty awesome soundtrack. The CGI has improved a fair bit since the last series and it was such an enjoyable series to watch. My favourite parts so far were anything involving Hopper. David Harbour is just fantastic and Hopper’s character has developed well this series, especially his relationship with Eleven. Her story and development too was good to see.
Of course it isn’t perfect. I found parts of the storyline ridiculously predictable, even if they were alright to watch (like Eleven’s storyline). I liked most of the new characters but I found Bob a little too much and sickly sweet (sorry!). And the whole childhood romance thing was a little too over the top and cringey and a bit much.
But still overall one of the best series Netflix has to offer and I’m just looking forward to catching up on series 3 now!
Of course it isn’t perfect. I found parts of the storyline ridiculously predictable, even if they were alright to watch (like Eleven’s storyline). I liked most of the new characters but I found Bob a little too much and sickly sweet (sorry!). And the whole childhood romance thing was a little too over the top and cringey and a bit much.
But still overall one of the best series Netflix has to offer and I’m just looking forward to catching up on series 3 now!
Elli H Burton (1288 KP) rated Baby Driver (2017) in Movies
Aug 7, 2019
B.A.B.Y.
I avoided this movie for a while because so far I have loved everything with Ansel Elgort in it and I didn't want to break this streak. With nothing else I fancies watching and it had been on my list on Netflix I gave in.
Firstly, fell in love with baby immediately. How he behaves at home and how he is behind the wheel kind of transitioned well I think, it wasn't complicated it just flowed.
Kevin Spacey plays a character you want to hate but because it's Kevin Spacey you just can't.
Jamie Foxx though. I love the guy in this he really makes you hate him. He's suave, dangerous, unpredictable and merciless perfectly.
The Darling and Buddy story (trying not to spoil it) is an unexpected surprise in a film such as this.
It's nice to see a film so unique in the way it all works out. One thing I did find is the Baby/Debora story progressed a little too fast but other than that, great film definitely think it's worth a watch
Firstly, fell in love with baby immediately. How he behaves at home and how he is behind the wheel kind of transitioned well I think, it wasn't complicated it just flowed.
Kevin Spacey plays a character you want to hate but because it's Kevin Spacey you just can't.
Jamie Foxx though. I love the guy in this he really makes you hate him. He's suave, dangerous, unpredictable and merciless perfectly.
The Darling and Buddy story (trying not to spoil it) is an unexpected surprise in a film such as this.
It's nice to see a film so unique in the way it all works out. One thing I did find is the Baby/Debora story progressed a little too fast but other than that, great film definitely think it's worth a watch