What’s in Your Queue?
I watch way too much Netflix and
Amazon streaming. At this point, I can’t fathom adding even more streaming
services. (I do admit Disney lurks…that darn Mouse, and Marvel, and Disney Wish
Upon a Star magic – we shall see if I succumb. However, I still need to read,
write, and go outside for some fresh air, for goodness sake.
But here’s a very brief listing with some comments on
various shows.
Netflix:
The Irishman – Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, Joe
Pesci, and every actor who’s ever appeared in mob movies, star in a
Martin Scorsese saga. This movie is way, way, way too long – 3-1/2 hours.
C’mon, Marty, use the edit button. I watched it over several nights – almost
like a mini-series. For a person who is not keen on guns, I confess to liking
mob movies. I like the language, I like the different ways of “offing”
people, and I like the scenes around the dinner tables. These guys eat
well. If you liked The Godfather series, Goodfellas, etc,
then you’ll appreciate The Irishman. This does not cover new
territory and it moves a bit slow, but I liked the acting. De Niro gives
great shrugs – he says a lot with them. Al Pacino, as Jimmy Hoffa, gives good
looks and can bark a great line. The special de-aging effects are amazing and
Marty does know how to film a scene.
Marriage Story – Scarlett Johansson, Adam
Driver, Alan Alda, Laura Dern. Directed by Noah Baumbach who can tear out your
heart with one scene. This is Kramer vs. Kramer as we watch the
destruction of a marriage. Charlie (Driver) is a rather self-involved
director. Nicole is an actress settling in L.A. for a mediocre show. The two
are seeing a therapist, but drifting apart. They do have a son and we see the
effects of their disintegration through his actions. This movie is heart
wrenching, well-acted, well done, and quite the character study. Not just a
light flick for a Friday night. You have to be ready for a soul search.
Comedies – any Jim Gaffigan special, any Ilisa Schlesinger,
any Sebastion Manecuso. You will laugh.
Classic series – Friends. I am up to
season 6 and must plow through before it’s yanked from Netflix at end of year.
I am reliving the hilarity. This series stands the test of time and is awesome.
Amazon:
Jack Ryan Season 2 - arrgghhh. We
were psyched for this after season one. What happened? This is a mess
with Venezuela. Jack and crew are slashing through the jungle. The evil German
villain dude is annoying. The overall plot has holes. And Jack keeps
going off the reservation. We found this all rather predictable – no good
surprises. Disappointing.
Marvelous Mrs. Maisel – season 3. Snappy
patter, spiffy clothes, fast and frenetic in a good way. Great acting and just
funny. This show is different in a good way and you can’t be slouching in your
chair half asleep while watching it. Lots of wordplay, and it moves quickly.
Comedy isn’t for sissies and Midge Maisel is staying on her toes…in heels. Good
stuff.
That’s if for now. That should fill up your time if you are
bored. Or turn off the TV and read a good book…..I’m on the Magpie
Murders right now and it’s quite intriguing. Cheers!
