sophia55 Reviews

The Legend of Molly Johnson (2021)

A Powerful, Emotionally Devastating Film

[7/10 · 21 August 2022]

This is not a fun female cowboy movie. It's not a action-packed western. It's a cinematic tale of identity, endurance, and the construct of justice, which I much prefer to the first two options. The cinematography is unparalleled, the performances incredible, and the story devastating but enthralling. I will say I found the orchestrations in the first half of the movie distracting, and certain side plot scenes contrived, but overall this film is testament to Leah Purcell's overwhelming talent both in front of and behind the camera.

A League of Their Own (2022)

A fun, poignant and much needed series

[9/10 · 12 August 2022]

If you're here to figure out if you should watch this show or not, filter out any review with the words "woke" or "historically inaccurate" and go from there. Reading these reviews, we must have watched different shows- the costumes are gorgeous, there's tons of baseball scenes, and the characters are nuanced and authentic. It's almost like people are more critical of stories featuring women, especially Black and gay women... Overall I would highly recommend this show- it has the spirit of the movie, with in my opinion better developed characters and unparalleled performances!

Only Murders in the Building: Double Time (2021) Season 1, Episode 9

What a twist!

[9/10 · 18 October 2021]

The last minute or so of this episode is absolutely breathtaking, with a reveal that is truly shocking! The slow build up to it is done incredibly well, I just wish that the exposition and plot development instigated by Jane Lynch's character was given to another character, someone who has already been introduced. I love Jane Lynch as an actor, but this role was poorly written and out of place with the rest of the show.

Leverage: Redemption: The Jackal Job (2021) Season 1, Episode 11

One of the best of the series

[9/10 · 18 October 2021]

Sweepingly theatrical, this episode veers into star-crossed lover territory without falling into cliches. It's nuanced and delicate, and Gina Bellman's performance is excellent.

Black Medicine (2021)

gratuitous with no clear direction

[3/10 · 20 July 2021]

The premise of this movie is intriguing, introducing a high stakes story with the potential for many twists and turns. Unfortunately, instead of a riveting, suspenseful thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat, Black Medicine is nearly two hours of cliches, with an incredibly predictable plot and one dimensional characters. Additionally, I was appalled at how incredibly medically inaccurate everything was- you'd think that a movie with such a heavy focus on medicine would hire a medical adviser at least. Overall incredibly dissapointed in this film.

Why Women Kill: Scene of the Crime (2021) Season 2, Episode 4

Different but just as good

[8/10 · 21 June 2021]

Like so many others, I was disappointed when I found out season 2 would not have the same 3-timeline format as season 1, and was expecting the second season so be lackluster as a result. So far I have been proven wrong. Choosing to focus on one timeline and fewer characters makes more room for solid character development, and Rita and Alma are 2 delightfully well written and fun characters.

Believe Her (I) (2018)

Real.

[10/10 · 20 June 2021]

Believe Her accomplishes in 10 minutes what most shows and movies can't; a real, raw and devastating look at the aftermath of sexual assault. It's not sensationalised. It's uncomfortable to watch. And it's an incredibly necessary short film.

We Are Lady Parts (2021– )

Just plain fun

[9/10 · 16 June 2021]

I told myself I'd try the first ten minutes of episode one. I watched the whole series in one sitting. It's riveting from the first minute to the last-no wasted B-plots or side characters, We Are Lady Parts has a unique premise and incredibly well written characters.

Ms Fisher's Modern Murder Mysteries: Death by Design (2021) Season 2, Episode 1

Real tone shift

[5/10 · 16 June 2021]

Ms Fisher's Modern Mysteries has always had a very light tone, but season 2 seems almost farcical in comparison to the first season. The first season juxtaposed the fun, upbeat tone with murder investigations, whereas so far this season has made the murder investigations take a back seat to sitcom tropes from the 80s. Characters seem one dimensional this season, and the focus on relationship status over actual character development is very disappointing.

Rutherford Falls (2021–2022)

Finally!

[9/10 · 29 April 2021]

This is what happens when you have a diverse cast AND writer's room; you get a show where indigenous characters are real people, not caricatures. This show subverts so many stereotypes, and does so in an incredibly entertaining way!

Rutherford Falls: Terry Thomas (2021) Season 1, Episode 4

All the awards for Michael Greyeyes

[10/10 · 28 April 2021]

Possibly the best episode of television in recent years. Something Rutherford Falls excels at is crafting imperfect and therefore incredibly real characters, which is highlighted in this episode. Michael Greyeye's speech at the end of the episode was breathtaking.

Ladies in Black (2018)

well written and visually stunning

[9/10 · 24 March 2021]

Throughout watching this film I felt like I had travelled back in time and was simply watching a contemporary play. Everything about this movie feels so authentic; the music, the cinematography, the costumes all seem straight out of the 50s. Characters are nuanced and real, and show realistic growth over the course of the film. The overarching theme of understanding and accepting others is done in an organic, non "episode of the week" way. Overall a thoroughly enjoyable film!

Fate: The Winx Saga (2021–2022)

Why can't kids just be kids

[4/10 · 20 February 2021]

There are plenty of ways to make something originally targeted towards children interesting for a wider audience without sacrificing the original heart or making it completely inappropriate for its original audience. Taking teenage characters and putting them in exaggerated situations far too mature for their age only gives unrealistic and even dangerous ideals to the children and teens watching.

Chilling Adventures of Sabrina (2018–2020)

inconsistent

[4/10 · 11 January 2021]

Sabrina has high highs and low lows. Unfortunately, the good quality episodes that made up for the lesser quality ones became few and far between as the series progressed, culminating in a fourth and final season that was absolutely terrible. The fourth season felt like a completely different show; no characterisation was consistent, most actors were criminally underused, and any semblance of a coherent plot was removed to make way for shock value. Thoroughly dissappointed in a series that had so much potential.

The Flight Attendant: Hitchcock Double (2020) Season 1, Episode 7

Keeps getting better

[9/10 · 12 December 2020]

By far the strongest episode of an already rock solid series! Few series are able to juggle serious topics, suspense and comedy successfully, and the Hitchcock Double is a beautiful balance of the three. The individual performances of the actors are also incredible- I could watch Michelle Gomez and Kaley Cuoco being confused and suspicious of each other for hours and be perpetually entertained. Can't wait for the final episode!

Evil Eye (II) (2020)

Disjointed but enjoyable

[7/10 · 14 October 2020]

Evil Eye has a great concept, and is full of suspense. Nothing is given away too quickly, and the way the story unfolds is riveting. However, it seems like the creative team couldn't decide if they wanted to make a psychological thriller or a supernatural horror film, which makes it feel at times like you're watching two different movies. That being said, it is still enjoyable. The film dissects the "overprotective mother" trope, and doesn't play into stereotypes. I found the dialogue to be pretty realistic as well. The performances really make the thematic inconsistencies less jarring and more watchable. Omar Maskati gives an incredible performance in a very difficult role, and Sarita Choudhury is absolutely phenomenal, giving a very nuanced performance. This film isn't perfect, but it's definitely worth watching.

Blackstone (2009–2015)

Gets better with each season

[9/10 · 4 September 2020]

Many shows decrease in quality with each passing season, Blackstone is the opposite. The show takes a season or so to hit its stride, but incredible character development starts in the first episode. Every character is allowed to have flaws, which allows for nuanced and very real portrayals. The acting on this show is unparalleled, the performers are able to take complex and often very heavy story lines and portray them in a way that is respectful and real. Michelle Thrush and Carmen Moore, often seen in supporting or guest roles in other shows, give career defining lead performances. This show handles sensitive topics incredibly well, and not in an "episode of the week" type fashion. A single issue is often shown from multiple different perspectives. All in all, Blackstone is a riveting, intense, and memorable drama highlighting an incredibly talented cast.

Hard Rock Medical (2013–2018)

Realistic and Riveting

[8/10 · 24 August 2020]

I try and watch every new medical drama that comes out, and I've never seen one like this before. The premise of following medical students on their journey to becoming doctors is not new, but Hard Rock Medical does it in such an interesting and realistic way! For example, in the first season, we see the characters shadowing doctors and mainly learning in a lab, instead of jumping right in as is common in many medical shows. This allows for some great character development, as the focus is more on the medical students and how their perceptions change and skill sets develop, as opposed to a "patient of the week" scenario. Difficult topics are handled with care, and the show raises awareness of many important issues not usually focused on in mainstream television. All in all a thoroughly enjoyable and unique show!

Arctic Air (2012–2014)

A Canadian Classic

[8/10 · 24 August 2020]

This show is a prime example of what Canadian television should be. Interesting and action-packed story lines with well developed and unique characters. The balance of comedy and drama is well done, and the show covers topical issues in an informed and nuanced manner. The acting is top notch, and showcases some lesser-known Canadian talent. My only complaint is that the show often tries to pack too much into one episode- we don't need 3 or 4 stories at once, especially when the main plot is already quite interesting!

Rose Plays Julie (2019)

one of a kind

[10/10 · 10 July 2020]

Rose Plays Julie is a masterclass in film making, to say the least. Don't let the one sentence plot summary fool you, Rose Plays Julie defies genres to create an unforgettable and relevant story. The film covers difficult subject matter, and at times is difficult to watch. That being said, topics were handled with respect and did not seem gratuitous.

The use of symbolism and foreshadowing is unparalleled- how they made everything seem so intentional yet not contrived is beyond me. The use of sound is another strength- music that waxes and wanes allows the viewer a glimpse into the mindset of the characters. Favouring reactions over dialogue is a bold choice that absolutely works- when a character finally speaks, you hold your breath to listen. Orla Brady, Ann Skelly and Aidan Gillen are giving the performances of their careers.

All in all, Rose Plays Julie is nuanced, riveting and one of a kind.

Transplant (2020–2024)

Keeps Getting Better

[8/10 · 4 May 2020]

Transplant seems to be really hitting its stride, with each episode surpassing its predecessor in quality. Instead of focusing on bizarre and inaccurate medical situations to shock and entertain viewers, Transplant uses the setting of a hospital to tell unique and interesting stories about nuanced and realistic characters. It gives voices to the often under-represented, and tackles difficult and topical issues with ease.

Silent Grace (2001)

A Rare Gem

[9/10 · 4 May 2020]

Women are often overlooked in history, their roles and accomplishments being erased over time, if they were ever acknowledged in the first place. This is why Silent Grace is such an important movie, being one of the few, if only film to highlight the role of women in the IRA. Steer clear if you want a sanitised, Hollywood-style film; Silent Grace is raw and difficult to watch at times, and doesn't sacrifice its integrity to appear more "mainstream" or enjoyable. That being said, this film has some excellent comedic moments, as well as one of the most organic and realistic portrayals of female friendship I have ever seen. Orla Brady gives a career-defining performance as a high-ranking member of the IRA who goes on a hunger strike. The entire cast are realistic and well-suited for their roles. Everyone looks like real people. Overall, Silent Grace is a must-watch.

Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist (2020– )

Hits the right notes

[9/10 · 4 May 2020]

Making a musical television show is incredibly difficult. Making a musical television show with pre-existing songs that need to fit into a new narrative is almost impossible. Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist accomplishes this task with ease. The cast is incredibly talented, both in acting and vocal talents. Aside from the excellent use of music to enhance plot points and emotional moments, this show's real strength is it's portrayal of death and the grieving process. It is very rare that shows talk about death planning, the dying process, and how different people process grief in such a realistic but ultimately healing manner. It doesn't trivialise or sugar-coat, it educates.

Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist: Zoey's Extraordinary Dad (2020) Season 1, Episode 12

Absolutely Incredible

[10/10 · 4 May 2020]

Such a moving and poignant episode that tackles difficult scenarios expertly. As with all the episodes, the series finale uses music to work through emotional topics in a way that enhances instead of taking away from the story, but this episode in particular absolutely soars thanks to its impeccable song choice and incredibly talented cast.

Into the Badlands (2015–2019)

Absolutely Riveting

[10/10 · 2 April 2020]

I had never really been interested in martial arts films or shows with multiple fight scenes, but Into the Badlands caught me completely by surprise. Every scene is like an incredibly well-choreographed dance, there were multiple times where I would have to stop and rewind during a fight scene to make sure I caught every last detail. The sheer talent and dedication of the cast and crew is apparent in every scene, fight or otherwise. I find with many action-heavy shows, the plot suffers. In Into the Badlands, the story line is incredibly interesting, and the drama scenes are just as riveting and well shot as the fight scenes. Additionally, for an action heavy show, the female characters are incredibly well developed, and have equal footing with the male characters. There are no "cat fights", no scenes of women loosing a fight simply because of their gender. In fact, the majority of the powerful, skilled fighters in Into the Badlands are women! Overall, this show is an absolute masterpiece!