zvxcpt Reviews

Steve! (2024– )

Improves As It Goes Along (Just Like Its Subject)

[9/10 · 25 May 2024]

Like other reviewers, I'm curious to know why the documentary was made in two pieces, other than the fact that it would be very long to watch in one sitting. In my case, viewing the documentary over two days, it definitely showed how Steve's life has changed over the years, certainly for the better. In that way, it's a very hopeful piece, one that proves how it's possible for someone to become more comfortable with who they are, more likeable, more relatable, etc. After seeing how much Steve struggled in the first half of his life, it's very heartwarming to see how much joy his entire life brings him today. Yes, the documentary is long and there are certainly parts that could have been trimmed but, like a lot of Apple TV+ programs, it feels like time well-spent when the final credits roll. Steve! Is an interesting study of a fascinating human being and certainly worth watching.

Palm Royale (2024– )

Mixed Emotions

[8/10 · 22 May 2024]

This was certainly a fun series, although it was also pretty scattershot and, by the end, not entirely satisfying. As other reviewers have said, it would have been nice to have had some kind of closure at the end of the first season, even if only for a few of the characters. As it stands, pretty much everything is up in the air. Hopefully, Apple TV+ has already committed to season 2; if not, it would be very frustrating for the series to end as it does. What did I like about the series? It was fun, entertaining, and over the top. There was some suspense and mystery along the way, even if not everything made sense during the journey. Kristen Wiig and Ricky Martin were both great, as were most of the supporting cast, including Carol Burnett. If you want a fun diversion, Palm Royale will certainly do the trick. Just be prepared to have most of your questions left unanswered at the end of episode 10.

Five Days at Memorial (2022)

Outstanding

[10/10 · 11 May 2024]

As with most hour-long dramatic tv series, I prefer to watch one episode per day, which gives me a chance to digest and process what I've seen before moving onto the next episode. This definitely worked in my favour for "Five Days At Memorial." Unless you're a soulless automaton, the first five episodes would be virtually impossible to binge watch. There's not only a lot going on all at once, there's also an unflinching examination of what went wrong at Memorial during the Katrina disaster. At times, it's almost too heart-wrenching to watch. Tears will definitely flow and your mind will go back and forth trying to understand what all these people went through. More than that, however, it makes you look in the mirror and consider what YOU would have done in similar circumstances. This series is a difficult, challenging watch - but it's also must-see television of the highest order. I'd also recommend watching the behind-the-scenes features at the end of each episode (following the credits). They're only a couple of minutes long, but really do add a lot to the story. This is truly outstanding television. Have some tissues ready, be prepared for the realistic on-screen devastation, and catch up on one of Apple TV+'s best series.

Manhunt (2024)

Enjoyable History Lesson

[9/10 · 2 May 2024]

I'm Canadian and, admittedly, don't know much about American history, but I thoroughly enjoyed Manhunt. As with most historic dramatizations, there are likely dozens of inaccuracies during the series's seven episodes, but they certainly don't detract from making it a fascinating watch. The writing, acting, cinematography, costuming, etc. Were all first-rate, as is usually the case with Apple TV+ productions. The pacing moved the show along, without rushing the storytelling. Perhaps the one thing that potential viewers might find off-putting is that the "manhunt" part of the series - the search for Booth - is really only a small part of the overall story. Really, it's more a series about Abraham Lincoln's role in Reconstruction and, specifically, the part that Edwin Stanton played in it - before and, especially, after Lincoln's assassination. For me, that story deserved to be told and the series did an excellent job of bringing it to the small screen. Excellent show and thoroughly entertaining.

The Reluctant Traveler (2023– )

Improves With Age

[9/10 · 23 April 2024]

I enjoyed the first season of The Reluctant Traveler, but I really appreciated the second season more. Levy dials back his "reluctance" and seems much more adventurous and also more appreciative of the places he visits. Plus, he tries harder to actually talk with the people he meets and learn more about why they live where they live. Having said that, even if Levy's humour and his reluctance to travel isn't your cup of tea, just enjoy the outstanding cinematography. It truly is breathtaking. Even watching it on my 15" MacBook, I can't help being overwhelmed with all the beauty Levy has the opportunity to experience during his travels. I'll give The Reluctant Traveler a well-deserved 8.5 and, hopefully, Apple TV+ gives Levy another opportunity to overcome his reluctance for a third season.

Argylle (2024)

Mindless Fun

[8/10 · 13 April 2024]

Apple has been doing a good job of delivering fun, offbeat comedies (Family Plan, Ghosted, Spirited) that provide enjoyable, mindless entertainment. My wife and I watched Argylle last night and, other than being a tad long, it fits the bill nicely. There are plenty of nifty special effects, some surprising twists, and a talented cast that is obviously enjoying themselves immensely. I'm not sure what more you'd want or expect from a movie that will keep you entertained from start to finish. If you're looking for a highbrow film that's beloved by the critics, you're clearly in the wrong place. But, if you're looking for a fun way to pass an evening, you can't do much better than Argylle.

The Completely Made-Up Adventures of Dick Turpin (2024– )

Plenty Of Silliness - Just The Way I Like It!

[8/10 · 7 April 2024]

This was a lot of fun. If you're a fan of silly, off-the-wall comedies, The Completely Made-Up Adventures of Dick Turpin will be an enjoyable ride. The episodes are short and lively, so you can watch all six instalments in under three hours. A lot of the jokes don't really land, but enough do that you'll find yourself laughing along, even if you're not rolling on the floor in hysterics. All of the characters are enjoyable and the situations entertaining. Hopefully, Apple TV+ already has plans for another season, because I'll definitely welcome another set of adventures with Turpin and his gang. I'd like to mention one other thing I really enjoyed about this show - that Turpin is a pacifist and triumphs because of some luck, a few smarts, and a choice to avoid violence whenever possible. That's pretty refreshing in today's world.

Constellation (2024)

Imaginative & Emotional

[8/10 · 4 April 2024]

As a non-sci-fi person, Constellation is certainly outside my wheelhouse. It takes a lot for me just to start watching a show like this, so the fact that I enjoyed it thoroughly and was invested fully is pretty impressive. Constellation isn't quite up to the standards of Silo, For All Mankind, and Severance, but it was still a great ride. The cinematography was outstanding throughout, probably the best of any Apple TV+ series I've watched. The two lead actors, Noomi Rapace and Jonathan Banks, are absolutely fantastic, each playing two different versions of the same characters. Likewise, the two young twins who play the same character in different dimensions are also stellar. As for the story itself, I found it best just to suspend disbelief and go along for the ride. If you're a technical person who wants the science to line up perfectly, this is probably not a great fit for you. But, if you want to watch a gorgeous, well-acted, imaginative and emotional series, give Constellation a try. I hope there's a second season, because there are a lot of directions this show could go in - and a lot of loose ends that it would be nice to tie up. Even if that doesn't happen, season 1 is entertaining enough to invest eight hours in. I'll give it an 8.3.

The Bloody Hundredth (2024)

Excellent Companion Piece to Master of the Air

[9/10 · 27 March 2024]

After watching all nine episodes of Masters of the Air, I took an extra hour to watch this well-produced documentary, which definitely complements the series. We meet several of the main characters from Masters of the Air, including "Rosie" Rosenthal, who was as fascinating a person in real life as he was in the series. There aren't really any new revelations in the documentary that aren't covered in the series, but it is interesting to see original footage from WWII, along with hearing the thoughts of various veterans in their own words. I'm grateful to Apple TV+ and the producers of Masters of the Air for producing such an excellent companion piece to the series. If you enjoyed the show, you will certainly enjoy The Blood Hundredth, as well.

Masters of the Air (2024)

Exciting, Entertaining & Educational

[9/10 · 26 March 2024]

I'm not a war or history buff so, unlike some reviewers, I never had to worry about technological or historical inaccuracies when I was watching Masters of the Air. Instead, I just enjoyed the great action sequences, entertaining cast of characters, and storytelling about a crucial part of WWII. Some of the dialogue could have been better and, yes, it's sometimes hard to recognize specific characters beyond the main stars, but I enjoyed all the episodes. That includes some of the sidebars that probably could have been edited out. Sure, the producers could have focused strictly on the air battles, but it was interesting to learn a little about some of the other parts of the war that were occurring simultaneously. All in all, I would give this series a solid 8.5. I'm also looking forward to watching the one-hour companion documentary to learn more.

Criminal Record (2024– )

Great Acting/Interesting Story

[9/10 · 14 March 2024]

I really enjoyed Criminal Record. Some reviewers claim they've seen the same story a thousand times, but that's nonsense. Yes, it's a police procedural, but there are a bunch of different threads interwoven that keep the viewer guessing until the final scene - and then opens up another possible can of worms right before the credits roll. The acting by the two leads (Jumbo and Capaldi) is first-rate. They play off each other like a cat and a mouse - and neither of them is above breaking the rules to get what they want. As far as complaints that the show is too long and drawn out, I hear that time and again about pretty much every show I watch. Personally, I think people have forgotten about letting a story unfold at its own pace, rather than cramming non-stop action and cliffhangers into every episode. Criminal Record may not be the best or most original show ever, but I think 8.5/10 is a fair rating for this excellent series. I don't think Apple TV+ has any plans for another season, but if they do I'll certainly be watching.

Acapulco (2021– )

Wonderful & Heartfelt

[9/10 · 15 February 2024]

I watched Season 1 and 2 back to back over 10 days and absolutely loved it. Season 1 is above average, but Season 2 dials everything up to near-perfection. It is so heart-warming to see all the pieces fit together, with the writing, cinematography, acting, etc. All gelling together.

I love so many of the shows on Apple TV+, but I seem to have a special affinity for series set in different countries - Pachinko, Drops of God, Ted Lasso, Slow Horses, Bad Sisters, etc.. I most definitely include Acapulco in that list. Sure, it can be a bit corny sometimes, but the warmth and down-to-earth humour really shine through. The last two episodes of Season 2 are truly outstanding and I can't imagine anyone watching the Season 2 finale and not tearing up. Just so good.

I am looking forward to the next season in May 2024 - and I hope this series can continue for a long, long time, because there is so much more of Maximo's story to tell. Thank you Apple TV+ for continuing to produce so many wonderful series. My subscription is worth every penny I pay for it.

The Buccaneers (2023– )

Beautiful, Spirited and Uplifting

[9/10 · 8 January 2024]

As a 65-year-old male who doesn't have much use for costume dramas, I truly enjoyed The Buccaneers. For those reviewers comparing this to Bridgerton, it's completely different - and that's a good thing as far as I'm concerned. If I was to compare it with another show in the same vein, the obvious one is Dickinson, another Apple TV+ period piece. Both shows have a youthful spirit that's invigorating. Additionally, the quality of the acting, writing and cinematography are all first-class. Like Dickinson, the music is mostly well-chosen 21st century songs, not the orchestral re-imaginings of Bridgerton. For me, that makes the entire experience eminently more emotional and enjoyable. Put aside any preconceptions and just go along for the ride. If you do, I bet you'll enjoy The Buccaneers as much as I did - and, hopefully, Apple TV+ orders a second season, since there are several interesting directions for this show to explore.

Lessons in Chemistry (2023)

Wonderful!

[9/10 · 21 December 2023]

I have been looking forward to this series since I read Bonnie Garmus's book in June 2023 - and it did not disappoint. When the show premiered I did have some concerns because I read a lot of comments from readers of the book about the changes that had been made in adapting it for television. As I began watching the show, I admit that some of those concerns were warranted, as many of the changes did not seem to serve any purpose. However, I went with the flow and was glad I stayed with it, as it's truly a wonderful watch. The performances by the entire cast, especially Brie Larson, are almost note-perfect. Overall, this is a great watch and Lessons in Chemistry is certainly one of 2023's best shows. I encourage you to watch - and I also encourage you to read the book. Both are very rewarding experiences, although they are uniquely different.

The Family Plan (2023)

Everything You'd Hope For

[8/10 · 21 December 2023]

Reading the negative audience reviews here, it's as if many of the people decided to watch The Family Plan without any idea about what they might get with a Mark Wahlberg, family-oriented action-comedy. This ain't Oppenheimer, folks. My wife and I had zero expectations when we tuned in and this movie more than surpassed the low bar we had set. It was cute, funny, and mildly action-oriented, with better than expected acting and a few moments that were actually pretty funny and heart-warming. If you're looking for a potential Oscar nominee, you're looking in the wrong place. But, if you want to pass a few hours and walk away with a smile on your face (like the adorable baby in this movie), you really won't go wrong with The Family Plan.

Still Up (2023)

Stick With It

[8/10 · 7 November 2023]

I enjoy almost all the original Apple TV+ shows I've watched, but I was on the fence about this one until the last few episodes. The two main characters are quirky and interesting, but I was put off in the early episodes by how self-centred both of them were to other people in their lives. Having said that, as the show goes along and you realize that the two of them are really in love, it does make more sense that people outside their relationship would get short shrift.

If you watch the whole season, especially the last episode, all of the above will make sense. Along the way, you'll have to put up with a bunch of stories that are mostly entertaining, but are sometimes off-putting and pointless. In the end, however, it will be worth it.

I'm not sure if Apple will decide to produce another season or not, but if they don't this one is a good enough standalone series. If you have four hours to kill, you can binge-watch the whole season and I think you'll be entertained.

Drops of God (2023)

Engrossing Story

[10/10 · 3 November 2023]

Apple TV+ continues to create some of the most original, thought-provoking, well-produced television on any streaming service. Drops of God is a worthy addition to the dozens of series, movies, documentaries, etc. That I've watched over the past couple of years.

Like many Apple TV+ shows, this one doesn't rush to the finish line and, instead, takes its time to tell a truly engrossing story over eight episodes. Crisscrossing from France to Japan, along with a memorable side-trip to Italy, the writing, acting, and production values are first-rate. Similar to Pachinko (another amazing Apple TV+ production), the story is told in multiple languages with subtitles. In this case, that involves English, French, Japanese and Italian, but they are all so seamlessly interwoven that the story is easy to follow and the subtitles never detract from the viewer's enjoyment.

I won't give away any spoilers in this review, other than to say that the ending is simply perfect, tying the whole series together in a very heart-warming way. If you watch the entire series, I expect that (like me), it's similar to the ending you would have hoped for. Along the way, Drops of God is full of interesting contests, family drama, duplicities, and mysteries that are all believable and enjoyable.

Finally, if you have any interest whatsoever in winemaking, tasting, or collecting, it will only add to your enjoyment of this remarkable production. I proudly give this a 10/10, as there's nothing I would change in Drops of God. What an outstanding show!

Trying: The End of the Beginning (2022) Season 3, Episode 8

Perfect Ending To A Near-Perfect Show

[10/10 · 20 September 2023]

I love so many shows on Apple TV+, but was somehow late to the party for "Trying." All for the best, though, because I didn't have to wait for new episodes to arrive each week and was able to comfortably watch two shows a day for the past few weeks, loving every minute of the journey.

There are so many good things to talk about with Trying, but the show really begins and ends with Esther Smith and Rafe Spall, the two incredible lead actors, who do such a wonderful job portraying a loving couple who share all of life's ups, downs, and everything in between. It's amazing the give and take they share through all their trials and tribulations, bringing out the best in each other.

All of the supporting actors are perfectly cast. It's impossible to imagine anyone playing a role differently than the actors who brought these characters to life - just a tremendous cast from top to bottom.

As far as the last episode of what may or may not be the series finale, "The End Of The Beginning" wraps up the show on a heartwarming high, while leaving room for a possible season four. You will laugh, cry, catch your breath more times than you can count, and be very thankful that Apple TV+ gave the green light to such a very wonderful show.

Watch and enjoy! Your life will be better because of it!

Dickinson: You Cannot Put a Fire Out (2021) Season 2, Episode 10

Great Season Ender

[10/10 · 25 February 2023]

I loved this episode. So much to unpack, but it was all worth it in the end to see Emily realize that fame is fleeting, while love is enduring. It was good to have the mystery of "nobody" finally solved and to have all the foreshadowing of what's to come. There were certainly some unsettling moments, but the acting, script, direction, etc. Managed to hold everyone together, which resulted in a very satisfying conclusion.

I can't wait to finally catch up with the third and final season. This has truly become one of the best television shows I've ever experienced in my 65 years on this planet - and I can't wait to see how it all ends.

Dickinson: Split the Lark (2021) Season 2, Episode 6

Spectacular!

[10/10 · 22 February 2023]

One of the best episodes of the first two seasons - a little bit of everything, plus many hints of where the future of the series might be going. The writing, acting, sets, costumes, music and so much more come together to make this one of the most enjoyable episodes I've watched so far.

The scenes where Sue is subbed in for the opera singer are simply stunning and push the story arc in several possible directions.

Also, a big shout-out to Teenage Head from Hamilton, ON, Canada, whose song, "Picture My Face," was used over the closing credits. What a perfect choice of music to end the episode.

Truly excellent!

Little America: The 9th Caller (2022) Season 2, Episode 3

Touching Story

[10/10 · 21 January 2023]

This was one of my favourite Little America episodes. Despite facing a horrible situation, the heroine perseveres and the story ends with a very heartwarming conclusion. The main actress and her father were so perfect and I really enjoyed seeing the history of their journey from Sri Lanka to America. The contest aspect was done in the first season, but this episode was much more engaging. To me, it demonstrates both the tackiness of America, but also the idea that there are many ways to make your mark in the USA and prosper. Little America is such a wonderful series - and this was one of the episodes I enjoyed most.