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On the Roam (2024)
Anthony Bourdain's Parts Unknown meets Sons of Anarchy
Watching episode one, it feels closer to Parts Unkown than any of the other attempts. Maybe it's because Momoa has that same rebellious passion matched with a deep and genuine curiosity to understand people and their personal experiences. The cinematography also has a very similar feel. I love that it begins in Maggie Valley. It goes deep into the culture and history of the people as well as the beauty of the land they live and love. It's a beautiful blend of oration, storytelling and filming. I will definitely be watching more episodes. I'm not a biker at all but I think this show will offer something of value for everyone. At the very least, just watching Momoa is fascinating as he is one of the most unique public figures we have.
Obliterated (2023)
More Seasons PLEASE. Let it run!
I binged all 8 episodes in two nights. I watch a LOT of TV, and this is one of the best Season 1 ensemble launches I have seen. The chemistry is there, the characters are very likable, It is non- stop fun. Kudos for a female team lead and strong female characters. The cast is fully diverse - including age diversity - without that overshadowing the story. I'm also going to throw in support for tech tits - love her.
Most importantly, it's just fun escapism, and we all need a little fun in 2024. This is just one of those shows that can run many seasons and develop a very loyal fan base. It will just get better and better. It reminds me of when I first stumbled across Burn Notice on a business trip and was an instant fan even though I couldn't explain why - other than the cast chemistry. This show has that special sauce. Let it run!!!
Unstable (2023)
Please keep this show
Please keep this show and let it develop its potential. I see great possibilities. This deserves a chance to hit its rhythm and build a fan base. Rob Lowe us just so fun to watch. And the science information and humor is greatly needed. The cast is all very solid and talented. I'm looking forward to watching it develop. It has Parks & Recreation and Big Bang Theory vibes going on - what's not to love about that. And I love a show that talks about things I need to look up! Bonus to learn something along the way. I need more brain challenges. Thanks for an impressive start. Give this show a chance, I think you'll like it!
The Rest of Us (2019)
Women and girls CAN carry a movie
It's extremely refreshing to see a movie that doesn't depend on male characters or male actors. It was very real and really gives you a lot to think about as far as how we as women can dramatically impact each other through our choices. We can also choose to have compassion and choose to forgive -even if it's extremely hard.
Crash (2004)
Sadly, it didn't age
I haven't watched this in 18 years. Damn it is a good movie. Sadly, the content hasn't aged. In fact, I think it resonated even more with me now than in 2004. I recommend re-watching it with 2022 perspective.
Val (2021)
Oscar Level
I absolutely LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this. I am midway through and I have tears rolling down my face for the nostalgia and depth of this. It's absolutely great - the story, footage, composition, history. It is fabulous, and I highly recommend it. A priceless inside look into one person's unique life and experiences. I was unaware of Val's cancer and voice. It makes those crappy - "you'd never believe what they look like now", clickbaits just cruel. Don't skip this because you might have preconceived stereotypes of Val. The footage is amazing and historical.
Roadrunner: A Film About Anthony Bourdain (2021)
An inside look at an enigmatic genius
As I am watching the virtual advanced viewing, the words I keep coming back to are enigmatic genius. This brazen, sarcastic, difficult, demanding man clearly loved deeply and was deeply loved. Introverted, shy, talk show superstar, Bourdain was the ultimate professional perfectionist who embraced change and the unknown.
There is so much great footage, Anthony (or Tony as he is often referred to) is able to posthumously tell his own story. This is a man who was able to channel an addictive personality into productive, thrill seeking storytelling - and we were able to vicariously travel the world with him. I learned so much from him through the years. He is one of the very best storytellers we have ever been blessed with.
I am not sure I learned much new about him, but I loved every minute of watching this. If anything pleasantly surprised me, it was his religious conversation with Eric where he said that he tried to emulate Christ each day.
My primary takeaway - Despite having an unusually challenging and sometimes annoying personality, Anthony was truly special and unique. You can tell that the people fortunate to spend time with him (man, woman, and child) all seem to be in love with this complex man (deeper than a casual love - you can see it in their eyes and hear it in their words and voices). It is remarkable that he felt like he wasn't loved.
And as huge as his personality was, like any great journalist, people truly talked to him because he truly listened, was interested, and empathized. As is common with true genius, he burned bright hot and scorched his path through this world, our hearts, and our minds.
I have had a hard time accepting that he really committed suicide, but this move shows the path. Even though you know the ending in advance, it is still very powerful. The movie is also full of great lines and insights - maybe watch it with a notepad in hand!
There were lots of tears watching this. I miss his show being part of my life, and somehow, the re-runs just don't cut it.
Bear Witness, Take Action (2020)
Excellent Proactive Discussion
Great discussion of racial relations, where we are, how we got here, and ideas for actions we as individuals and a nation can take to bring about transformation.
Chasing Happiness (2019)
Even for Old Folks!
Watching Chasing Happiness right now on Amazon Prime. It is one of the best documentaries I have ever seen, just masterfully done - extremely worth spending an hour and a half watching. I have never been a Jonas Brothers fan, but I think I will be now. This is a great story of the power of family, talent, work ethic and faith. Great home video footage of an average family transforming into a major force. Part of the story is how the church rejected the entire family because the boys chose to be a secular band instead of a Christian band - it is heartbreaking. I guess I am truly fortunate to be an Episcopalian. I new we were on the more open minded end of the spectrum, but I am regularly realizing these days, how different our understanding of Christianity is. I also didn't know how hard they worked on stage and to build there career. The perception that they just got lucky and were an overnight sensation is totally debunked with this documentary. They worked extraordinarily hard and are a testament to the American Dream.