TVJerry.com

Reviews from inside

Reviews from inside

Reviews from inside

Since there are no local movies or plays to cover and since I watch a LOT of TV/streaming, I thought I’d review some of it. Maybe it’ll help ameliorate some of the frustration during this at-home confinement.

 

THE STRANGER (Netflix)

It’s based on Harlan Corben’s novel about a mysterious woman who shows up in peoples’ lives with a revelation that causes devastating consequences. It’s compelling right from the beginning (including some red herrings), but requires a bit of patience before the riveting final episodes (I was literally screaming at the TV). It’s also fun to see Jennifer Saunders (creator of Absolutely Fabulous) in a straight role. Basically, this is a quality British crime thriller with interesting characters and a gratifyingly gripping conclusion. 4 out of 5 stars (4 / 5)

 

YEAR OF THE RABBIT (IFC)

Another British crime import, but in a totally different vein. The oafish, bumbling police inspector (Matt Berry) sets about with 2 sidekicks to solve crimes in Victorian London. This is created in the broad style of English comedy that some may not enjoy, but the utter silliness of the interactions and often hilarious moments of “flavor” keep it entertaining. Especially fun is the appearance of The Elephant Man as a raging theatre queen. 3.5 out of 5 stars (3.5 / 5)

 

HUNTERS (Amazon Prime Video)

In a totally different type of police drama set in the 70s, a group of determined Jews (led by Al Pacino) sets out to find former Nazi’s living in America. Even though this is supposedly inspired by true events, they’ve added an almost superhero family of crime-stopping characters. To further the graphic novel approach, there are several detours from the traditional narrative storytelling. Most disturbing are the frequent flashbacks to concentration camps that parallel the storylines of various characters. Overall, the extensive personal dramas override the few moments of actual revenge encounters. Give it 2 or 3 episodes before deciding if it’s for you. 2.5 out of 5 stars (2.5 / 5)

 

THE OUTSIDER (HBO)

Heading even further into the police genre is the thriller based on a Stephen King novel. Jason Bateman (who also directed the first 2 episodes, the best of the series) plays a loving family man who’s accused of the horrible murder of a young boy. The evidence becomes contradictory pretty early on, which leads the characters on a conspiracy that’s more supernatural and terrifying than they can fathom. Ben Mendelsohn and Cynthia Erivo create especially captivating characters, but the overall style and approach of the series add an additional element of apprehension. One of the best recent TV series. 4.5 out of 5 stars (4.5 / 5)

 

Closer to home and NOT a mystery, you can watch my documentary, Spider Mites Of Jesus: The Dirtwoman Documentary, via streaming or DVD. Read more and order here.