MsDJH Reviews

The Good Fight (2017–2022)

amazing, funny, weird and outrageous

[7/10 · 15 April 2024]

When The Good Fight started, I didn't have to think twice: as a fan of The Good Wife (and Diane Lockhart), I tuned in. I mean, how could I not?! And the first episode had me hooked immediately. I loved the storyline, the new cast and the recurring characters. Unfortunately though, it would take me forever to finish this show. The crises, satire, turmoil and topical misdirection of Diane especially were just too much for me to stay on top of on a regular basis. I had to enjoy this show on an individual schedule. So when a storyline hit too close to home or was adding too much complexity and confusion to an already mind boggling reality, I took a break and eventually watched on. So it took me a while to make it to the finishing line. But I'm really glad that I did, because the show was worth being savored, not binged. And now that the show is over, I already miss Diane and Marissa, Kurt and Liz, Carmen and Jay. Yes, the show offered so many more amazing characters and guest stars (TGW's "Eli Gold" for example, Phylicia Rashad and Mandy Patinkin !!!), but these were my favorites. And I'm happy about the way things ended for them despite the ever-looming chaos and an unexpected song that's looping in my head now probably forever.

Death and Other Details (2024)

Excellent show although I guessed the reveal

[7/10 · 15 March 2024]

The trailer made me watch this show. Well, seeing Mandy Patinkin in it did. And the premise. So I was psyched to discover the whole first season had been released in one go. Such an excellent choice! This way I didn't have to wait three months to find my theory about the culprit confirmed. I was able to enjoy this show in a week and loved to fall in love with the cast bit by bit. In the end, the only thing that confused me was the cliffhanger for a second season. I'm not sure what to think about that. I feel a mini series would have been enough. Another thing that baffled me was the rating I saw for it in Europe (PG 12). Due to nudity, minor gore and multiple sex scenes, 16 feels more appropriate to me. But perhaps that's just me, LoL. All I can say is that as a young teenager DaOD is definitely not a program I would have liked to watch with my grandparents or parents at that age. But since it was advertised as Christie-esque, I expected this show to be easily digestible for all ages - like Murder She Wrote back in the days. My bad. None of those unexpected scenes made me enjoy this show any less.

Only Murders in the Building (2021– )

Slow burn sensation for me

[7/10 · 12 January 2024]

I'm one of those viewers who tuned in for the cast. The first trailer looked fun and promised nostalgia. If you loved Murder She Wrote, they claimed, you would fall in love with OMITB, too. And the first episode really did it for me, it sparked an interest. The rest of the season then and its conclusion was often a bit too much for my taste. And yet I tuned in for season 2. The cast, you know... and an initial plot that had me hooked once again. Funny enough, as I'm typing this now, I don't actually remember what the story or who the culprit was in the end. And there's a reason for that: the way that season ended. It really left me wanting more. And the way they wrapped up that new case in season 3? Absolutely fabulous. That season is truly my favorite! The cast (as always with some wonderful additions to the main trio), the setting, the songs, the humor and yet another finale that has me waiting for the next season with glee. Such a slow burn sensation for me. For others it was an immediate hit and I'm truly grateful for that.

La La Land (2016)

Underwhelming

[23 October 2023]

So, I finally convinced myself to watch La La Land. A lot of people had recommended it to me for years and I like the lead actress, Emma Stone. So I thought, why not. I didn't like the trailer much, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. But for some reason, I expected something completely different. A true love story for example. But the one we got wasn't cutting it for me. I didn't feel the chemistry. As friends perhaps, but nothing else. And that's the flaw for me, of the entire film. It has so much potential, but doesn't fully deliver on it.

I mean, the leads cannot sing, nor dance. Their characters are barely flashed out and the score is unevenly memorable. I was enjoying it at first, but got bored pretty fast. Which is a pity. I love LA, old Hollywood and thus liked the upbeat colors and the overall storyline of perusing dreams against all odds. But in contrast to the many renditions of A Star is Born, for example, this film falls flat in that respect, too. Especially due to the weird and abrupt ending.

(SPOILERS ahead)

I don't mind that it wasn't a complete happy end, but it was just dropped on the audience without any chance to see it coming. A five year time jump and everything's just different. That was such a huge letdown for me, I ended up being annoyed rather than touched. I didn't see the point of the story anymore. I still don't. Especially the dream sequence made no sense to me at all, because I was never presented with a reason for the separation of the two main characters in the first place. So why am I going through a reimagined and perfected version of their love story which results in the same ending they got, just not together.

Erm, why?!

Because she shot one film in Paris and never came back, but suddenly had a bi-continental career with major stardom? And he just left his only meal ticket paying gig, opened his jazz club and it was a huge success? And they didn't see each other again or talked about their accomplishments on the phone, not even once?

I'm sorry, that's a hard sell for me and I don't even see the sacrifice. Because in the end, apparently, they both got what they wanted. So why the melancholy about their "lost relationship"? Did it have to be sacrificed in the first place? I don't know! Because the story jumped without ever hinting to this. The fights they had had been resolved, so what in Earth?! I'm still rolling my eyes while typing this.

So, five stars for trying and making me smile in the beginning. And for the main song they used throughout the film. Five stars to applaud what I this film could've been as an homage to musical history and Hollywood commentary. Five stars because after all the raving reviews, I had such high hopes for some old school make believe.

How I Met Your Father (2022–2023)

in season 2 the show has found it's footing

[7/10 · 9 August 2023]

HIMYM had a fun cast and yet I never fully got into it. HIMYF took me a while to get into, but season 2 has me hooked. The cast has found its footing and the episodes are fun. As friends the actors all have good chemistry with each other and none of them is stealing someone else's spotlight. So it's a beautiful ensemble show, frequent guest stars included. I've come to love them all. The cherry on top is Kim Cattrall though of course. Her future Sophie fits Hillary Duff's present day version like a glove.

So if you need a silly laugh, check out this show and don't compare it too much to its predecessor. The concept may be similar, but the execution is different - in a very good and entertaining way.

Not Dead Yet (2023–2024)

Unexpected viewing pleasure

[9/10 · 12 June 2023]

When I started watching this show, the trailer had convinced me to do so. It had made me smile, so I thought, why not. It has ghosts in it and that's not exactly my cup of tea, but I like the lead actress and her character writes obituaries. So yeah, let's see where this will go. The pilot then and one episode later, I was not on board, but for some reason I stayed with it and boy, am I glad I did!

This show is funny, quirky and warm. The cast has wonderful chemistry and the characters grew on me fast, especially from the middle of the first season on. After getting to know them, I couldn't name one I don't like. They are all hilarious in their own way, guest stars included. No one is perfect, they all have their flaws, issues and strengths, and I cannot wait to see what they will be up to next (in season 2).

So yes (despite my initial scepticism), after 13 episodes I am happy to say, Not Dead Yet is a wonderful show that did what I needed the most: entertain me. Sounds simple, but it increasingly isn't. So thanks for the bright colors, the non-abrasive humor and the light (!!) touch of melancholy. This show has everything I have been looking for: a bunch of characters I love to hang out with via screen in order to laugh and forget about my daily stress.

Partners in Crime (1984)

Carter and Anderson: an unexpected dream team

[8/10 · 2 April 2023]

Love love loved watching this show growing up. Lynda Carter and Loni Anderson: what's not to like? (Except the fact that this show was sadly short lived.) Rewatching it brings back so many memories of TV shows and reruns from the 1980s. Cagney & Lacey, Hart to Hart, Perry Mason Returns, Murder She Wrote... I enjoyed them all.

Partners in Crime fit right into my favorite category: humorous whodunnit. The two leading ladies were fun, savvy and smart. Their cases were usually silly, but pleasantly harmless. A perfect program to relax to and get a good laugh from.

I still remember how sad I was when I realized it had been discontinued. But what a joy it is to be able to revisit those 13 episodes all those years later. A welcome break from all the darkish content that's labeled mystery crime today.

Raya and the Last Dragon (2021)

Truly wonderful (and funny, too)

[8/10 · 16 January 2023]

I didn't expect to like this film at all. I thought it would be a mix of fantasy and martial arts, but it was something entirely different. Right from the start the visuals sucked me in and so did the characters, most of all Raya and Si-Su. Every world they visited was interesting and their entire journey enthralled me, especially the end. It touched me like Disney classics usually do. Very beautifully done. Raya and the Last Dragon is definitely a new favorite of mine I'm looking forward to rewatch. Only next time, I hope, on a bigger screen, not just my tablet. I bet I'll love it even more then.

Star Trek: Picard (2020–2023)

So much better than I expected / s1+2 = 7 stars, s3 = 9 stars

[8/10 · 9 January 2023]

And I hope it stays that way in s3. That's why I'm only giving this show 7 stars so far - I really cannot wait to see how it will end. (see update below)

So far I'm excited. Of course there are minor letdowns here and there (too much violence and action for my taste, for example, a lot of unnecessary swearing in s1, the amount of new technology, Hugh getting killed off, yet another love interest for Picard) but in general I am in love with this show (new cast members included).

Somehow "Picard" managed to find a voice of its own and continue the story of my favorite ST crew. Every character that returns, even for just the briefest of moments, has made me smile like a little kid. And the new ones we get to meet are just fabulous. Kestra has been my favorite so far, because she's fun and doesn't fit into a box. Similar things apply to the new regulars: I couldn't pick one I didn't appreciate. Their stories touched me as much as Picard's, from beginning to end. It's all so very well done.

The only thing missing for me in s1 was TNG's trademark optimism, but s2 made up for that on a level I truly didn't expect. Thanks for that! It really took me right back and made me happy. What else could I possibly ask for from a show that's supposed to entertain me?

Update s3: This show just moved up a star for me (from a 7 to an 8). What a ride! Nostalgia bait it's called by some, but I disagree. Where's that kind of negativity coming from? If you loved TNG, Picard's final season is going to make you happy. Just lean back and enjoy it.

Is it perfect? Probably not, but it's getting pretty close. The entire cast is back on board with added layers to their characters and backstories. It's not just Picard who gets to grow and shine. The ensemble is back together and the audience gets to laugh and cry. So it actually feels like a love letter to fans and crew alike. Beautifully done, from beginning to end. After 10 weeks of weekly episodes, I'm only now able to catch my breath again. What has remained (from the finale especially) is a big smile, the kind the original show used to trigger back in the day. And I wouldn't mind if it lasted for a long long time.

PS: Now bring on ST: Legacy, if you please, cameos included. Now that would sure keep that fangirly smile glued to my face.

Call My Agent! (2015–2020)

Fabulously funny, witty and sad

[7/10 · 15 November 2022]

Dix Pour cent (Call My Agent) is a French TV series about a fictional talent agency called ASK. The agents are savvy, chaotic and loyal to their clients, most of them famous if you're familiar with French TV, stage and cinema. In order to grasp the full amount of irony and puns, the show is best followed in its original language. Season one throws you right into what you can expect from the rest of this show: depth, sarcasm, silliness and drama that resonates long after the final episode has left you longing for more. If you're only remotely interested in the premise, do yourself a favor and binge all four seasons in a week. You might just want to book a flight to Paris when you're done, with a whole new appreciation for what French culture has to offer beyond comedies, great food and classic stories about love.

Enola Holmes 2 (2022)

Fun sequels do exist, this is one!

[7/10 · 6 November 2022]

The first film I loved, minus some points here or there. The trailer had me already hooked. Now with the same recurring cast, film number two should be able to live up to the successful formula of the first. The trailer didn't, but the film sure does! Such a fun ride. All of my favorite characters have returned and plausibly evolved, the drama is good, the case(s) are not completely foreseeable and the humor has remained the same. So for me, EH2 has been a wonderful weekend treat that's brightened my day quite a bit. I'm definitely looking forward to more from this team and it's absolute rewatch material on Netflix until then.

Candice Renoir (2013– )

Love it to pieces

[8/10 · 18 October 2022]

To everyone outside of Europe: this is not your average police show, it's, as the title suggests, a show about a woman called Candice Renoir who happens to be a police detective and a mother of four. She's quirky, colorful, chaotic and very skilled at her job. She's also trying to live her life after the divorce from her charming cheat of a husband. She succeeds, trips and falls. She learns and moves on. That's the secret of this show for me: you see her grow, scars included, warts and all. It's not always pleasant for her, but a treat to watch for the excellent cast and a scenery that's to commit a crime for.

On Pointe (2020)

Why did it have to end?

[10/10 · 18 October 2022]

I really wanted to know so much more! About every single dancer and teacher, the school, its history, the program. What a wonderful documentary series. A real treat for any current, future, former or wannabe dancer.

If Covid cut this short, I hope they will reprise this eventually. There are just not enough shows out there like this about ballet in particular or dance in general. Positive programs that do not perpetuate the idea of fierce competition. Yes, the dance world, like any other artistic field is tough and requires skill and grit, but it's also nothing without good sportsmanship. Very well done showing exactly that!

WandaVision (2021)

An unexpected experience

[7/10 · 18 October 2022]

First of, I'm not a Marvel fan, not into comics and superheroes at all, so please read this review as what it is: an outsider's point of view. I watched this show, because I saw the trailer and the obvious homage to classic television appealed to me. All those shows paid tribute to and mentioned, I like. The way the main character related to them affected me. The cast was great, the humor a lovely surprise. The villain, well, not exactly my cup of tea, but as I said, I have no background in this universe, so I won't go into further detail. What I loved beyond words was the attention to detail and the visible love expressed for TV history from The Dick van Dyke Show to Malcolm in the Middle. Now that hit a nerve and made me smile all the way through, love story included. I'm still positively enthralled.

Fosse/Verdon (2019)

What a treat

[9/10 · 18 October 2022]

Catching up on a couple of shows I didn't have time to watch before. As always, there are hits and misses, and this is a definite hit. What a wonderful treat! This show had me hooked from the start and kept me entertained until the very end, emotional roller coasters included.

I must admit, I didn't know much about Fosse and Verdon before, especially not about their personal history, but boy, do I need to find out more about their work I have not yet seen. Cabaret is one of my favorites, Chicago I like, that's why I had put this mini series on my watchlist in the first place, but all the other projects shown and mentioned? Cannot wait to get my hands on them now!

The Murdoch Mysteries (2004–2005)

Such a pleasant surprise

[7/10 · 18 October 2022]

When I bought my first Murdoch Mysteries boxset years ago, these original adaptations of Maureen Jennings novels were included. Back then, I didn't know much about them, all I knew was the long running show starring Yannick Bisson as Murdoch. So when I first started watching these TV movies, I had trouble adapting to the dark and gritty style. On second viewing, however, I fell heads over heels in love. The cast is great, the characters are edgy and the cases suspenseful. So if you like the novels and a good murder mystery, do yourselves a favor and watch these films. You might even learn a thing or two about the late 1800s and Toronto the Good.

PS: As a treat to fans of today's Murdoch Mysteries, Hélène Joy played a crucial character in the last made-for-TV movie, a part that (as rumor has it) ultimately resulted in her playing Dr. Ogden in the following TV show.

Derry Girls (2018–2022)

Absolutely fabulous in its very own way

[9/10 · 18 October 2022]

Earlier this year I stumbled upon this show by chance and wasn't sure what to make of it at first. Episode one had me utterly confused, episode two onwards I was hooked. The humor, the characters, the look back at the 1990s: totally cracker. Now after the finale, I love this show even more and I finally understand what had me so confused in the first place. It's the time period, a perfect recollection of it actually. Whoever thinks the 90s were awesome, didn't live them. The 90s were far from that, as pictured in this show. They were a real challenge, but, in retrospect, a fun one, too. So many changes, hopes, mishaps and dares. So many uncertainties and yes, so many cultural oddities. The Derry Girls bring it all back, without rose-colored glasses or added glory. Such an excellent piece of quasi non-fiction. On point, quirky and brief. Northern Ireland a bonus I didn't know I needed to feel so wholly entertained.

Five Days at Memorial (2022)

Fabulous first 5 episodes...

[16 September 2022]

... then rather dry with an unsatisfying end.

I didn't know anything about this story when I started watching this miniseries, but instead of inspiring me to find out more, Five Days at Memorial has left me frustrated rather than pensive or impressed.

Overall a captivating cast and a daunting five episodes at the hospital: 8 stars for that, with one removed for the remaining three about the aftermath. By then, they just didn't manage to make me care for anyone anymore, including the patients and I doubt that was the goal. I'm sure you're actually supposed to get invested and pick a side to root for. Instead I'm happy this show is over. Had there been another episode, I wouldn't have bothered to watch on and that's a real pity, because the show really had me glued to my seat early on.

Borgen (2010–2022)

4 fabulous seasons

[8/10 · 5 June 2022]

I was a fan when seasons 1-3 first aired and I am absolutely blown away by this stand alone season 4 now available on Netflix. Fantastic work getting so many of the original players back together for such a gripping sequel.

Timeless (2016–2018)

Surprise find...

[7/10 · 8 March 2022]

... and such an enjoyable ride. If you're into time travel, history and pop culture puns, this is a real treat. The story arc is suspenseful and fun, the team dynamic wonderful and the end highly satisfying. The writers actually thought this through and got a chance to wrap it all up after the show got cancelled a little too soon. An absolutely binge worthy treat that doesn't take itself all too seriously.

Carrie Pilby (2016)

Loved it

[8/10 · 27 February 2022]

Not a comedy, nor a drama, this film has surprised me a lot. The characters are quirky and likeable, the story may be considered a coming-of-age tale, but it's so much more. Give humanity a chance and yourself, too, that's the lesson. And beyond that, a very relaxing film that's humorous and touching in unexpected ways.

Tomorrowland (2015)

Minority opinion (quite obviously)

[8/10 · 23 February 2022]

After watching the trailer, I expected just another gloomy dystopia, but instead, Tomorrowland offers something else: a wonderful mix of sci-fi, adventure and much needed optimism. And yes, humor in unexpected moments. I love this film. It kept me entertained all the way through to a hopeful end.

Snoopy in Space (2019–2021)

Love this show even as an adult

[9/10 · 19 February 2022]

Snoopy in Space is for kids, no doubt about it, so if you have any, you probably won't regret showing it to them. It will spike their interest in space and science, and yours, too, if you've kept your own inner child alive. The episodes are short and informative without losing the charm Snoopy likes to spread wherever he goes. Charlie Brown and his gang are also on board and so is a computer who's both smart and entertaining. Sounds weird? I thought so, too, at first, but she's since become one of my favorite characters on the show.

The Snoopy Show (2021– )

They absolutely nailed it!

[10/10 · 19 February 2022]

Snoopy has been a favorite of mine forever and this show has endeared him to me even more. The look is modern yet faithful to the original characters, something I appreciate beyond words. And the music is old school, too. A true work of love. I cannot wait to watch it once more.

Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock (2022– )

Such a lovely reboot

[9/10 · 19 February 2022]

After so many failed reboots, remakes and re-imaginations of numerous programs in the past few years, I was so very skeptical about the new Fraggles, but there was no need. They are absolutely fabulous! The new Doc was wonderfully picked, the topics are hopeful and the music is catchy. The only thing I didn't like was the venture into real life rock music, which (to my ears) didn't quite fit. But that's one moment out of 12 or so episodes. The rest really enchanted me the way the original show did when I was a kid.