The Count of Monte Cristo, Miniseries

The Count of Monte Cristo (Bille August, 2024)

IMDB film information

Rating: DSQ=12, SP=8 / Decadence

Scale A=4, Scale B=4, Scale C=4, Scale D=4, Scale E=4

Based on Novel, 19th Century, France, Crime, Suspense, Complex Relationships, Philosophical

Not since Hulu's recent Shogun miniseries have I been this thoroughly impressed by an adaptation. Absolutely marvelous storytelling. This production is what authors dream and hope their stories become when put on the screen, at least it is what I would want! This timeless tale of revenge and the consequences of taking that path. But it is also a tale of morality, hope, patience, and redemption. Marvelous performances from all actors, especially Sam Claflin and Jeremy Irons. And the visuals are sparkling on the screen. It is so tense, dramatic, devastating, and rewarding.

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Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter...and Spring Revisited

Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter...and Spring (Kim Ki-duk, 2003)

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Rating: Q=6, P=6 / Average OJ

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=3

Buddhism, Philosophical

I first saw Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter...and Spring not too long after it was released while I was in graduate school. I loved it then and my re-watching of it was even better. I've since become more focused on simple things and Buddhist teachings, so that resonated with me more. And I'm older, of course.

This film has few words. It is all about observation and reflection. All life is precious and miraculous. Go into this with an open mind and heart. You'll be glad.

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The Naked Gun 2025

The Naked Gun 2025 (Akiva Schaffer, 2025)

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Rating: Q=4, P=5 / Average OJ

Scale 1=2, Scale 2=2, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=2

Comedy, Spoof, Crime

Comedy remakes don't usually work, in my opinion, but this time I think it did. The Naked Gun (2025) is ridiculous, silly, crude, dumb, and full of gags. And that is what you want from a good comedy. You'll chuckle if you liked the first film and any of the original Zucker brothers films.

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