patricia-haertlein Reviews

The Split (2018–2022)

Best Rendition Ever of Human Foibles

[10/10 · 10 December 2023]

I just finished the last episode wishing that much more was to come. The cast is excellent, the writing is brilliant, and the love and pain strike true to the heart. Everyone has flaws just as we do. The characters make sometimes selfish or boneheaded decisions as we do. Their losses made my heart ache, the humor made me laugh out loud, and their courage to keep going made me cheer them on. Although most everyone seems to have more money than us, it surely does not make them immune from tragedy or pain. I watch everything that includes Nicola Walker but feel that the end of The Split is like having an old friend move away. Thank you for this series.

Welcome to Wrexham (2022– )

OMG! Something to cheer for!

[10/10 · 15 November 2023]

I began watching Welcome to Wrexham after coming across a weird commercial on Hulu for an American gin company. Hmm. Ryan Reynolds mentioned the Welsh football club, and I had to check it out. Believe it or not, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia is a longstanding comedy here that's very popular, as is Ryan Reynolds (remember Dick?👍) i cannot stress enough how uplifting, exciting, and full of heartfelt love that is packed into this series. We learn of the amazing history here, the individual people who make up the fans and team members, the amazing and tenacious other teams who are driven as much as Wrexham, and the incredible love shown for all of you. Who on earth could not get behind such a force of human nature at its best? GO Welsh AFCs, go Wrexham, and go Rob and Ryan! Love to all...

Dark Side of Comedy (2022– )

Comedians under a microscope

[6/10 · 9 November 2023]

If we look carefully at most comedians, they are angry, depressed and sadly self-centered. Joke stealers? Most of the time. Misogynistic? Could be. Scene stealers? Of course. Loyal and loving friend and loved one? Sure. Unfortunately, most comedians disappear into a haze of drugs, pessimism, and ill will towards others. The ones who survive successfully into maturity and advanced age are the ones who value their own integrity and have genuine relationships with family, their audience, and a belief in helping make this world a happier place. You performers know who you are. Much love and praise.

The Missing (2014–2016)

Utterly Heartbreaking

[10/10 · 15 October 2023]

This series has universal appeal, commentary on differing cultures, the frustrations related to the legal system, and how good people crack under pressure. I was transported to a captivating small town with flawed people who all had separate agendas yet related to most of them. The dark nature of the predators are horrible and disgusting. They exist, and it is a shame that the innocent get harmed in the most horrific ways. It is a fact that a majority of couples cannot withstand the pressure and pain of such a loss with unknown answers as to WHY. My greatest hope is that you and I never have to succumb to that burden. Well done.

The Old Man (2022– )

Tired Script

[6/10 · 15 July 2022]

I watched this miniseries because of Jeff Bridges and John Lithgow. They never disappoint, but the plot and script sure did. So much of the plot was full of holes, and the supporting cast often came off as wooden. A thriller like this should never leave an audience bored at times. Sadly, this did for me.

The Doctor Blake Mysteries (2013–2018)

The Star is a Masher

[3/10 · 5 May 2022]

This was a very enjoyable series until the news broke about Craig What's His Name. He single-handedly ruined this fine show that deserved better for the rest of the cast. What a waste.

Ihaka: Blunt Instrument (2000 TV Movie)

Love Rebecca Gibney But...

[5/10 · 28 April 2022]

I haven't a lot to say, other than Rebecca Gibney is always good, the scenery is wonderful, but the the plot is a boring flat tire. Checked out the last 15 minutes...

Packed to the Rafters (2008–2013)

Loved This Show Until Rafter Children Left

[8/10 · 11 April 2022]

I completely enjoyed the Rafter saga until somewhere in season 4. The Jennings family grossed me out with endless gags surrounding foot and body odor. I began to wish that Donna was kidnapped by a cosmetic dentist, and oh-Ted. He deserved a fitting sendoff of being struck by Mack truck rather than kicking dogs and irritating the Bejesus out of everyone! I will miss the show when I finish the series today...

Shining Vale (2022–2023)

How could this be so deadful?!

[4/10 · 9 March 2022]

I was very much looking forward to this new series, especially after seeing some of my favorite actors from the past in this cast. I simply couldn't waste my time after about 20 minutes of the first episode. The characters aren't likable, the potty mouth dialogue is juvenile, and the characterization of depression in general is over-the-top. I'm really sad to say that this is a no go for me :(

Evil Lives Here (2016– )

A Partial Fraudulent

[4/10 · 7 March 2022]

The narrative is totally slanted to whatever the adults say about what happened. Nobody talks about the detrimental effects of the adults having major substance abuse, physical abuse and/or unaddressed mental disorders. Once adults, the accused, or convicted younger family members are allegedly perpetrators are treated as the psychopaths. At least list mitigating factors that may have had a part in the family tragedies.

The Cabins (2021–2022)

You Think This is Bad?

[7/10 · 15 February 2022]

If you think this dating "reality show" is bad, you have no idea how low it can go with American dating shows. The Bachelor/Bachelorette franchises, 90 Day Fiancé conglomerate & lowest of all, Love After Lockup spawns make this show feel positively uplifting.

Gotta love cabins in beautiful settings inhabited with nice looking-if sometimes shallow people-who seem on the surface to actually be NICE to one another. With our American stuff, you're always left guessing if producers make the people follow their shabby scripts or if all the parties are just plain mean, vapid, and incapable of creating sentences without "like" crammed into each one.

I LIKE this mindless escape and don't turn it off feeling as if I need to take a shower.

The Cafe (I) (2011–2013)

No CGI effects, just acting

[8/10 · 11 February 2022]

The more episodes I watched, the more I enjoyed this series in a quaint seaside resort. There were an unbelievable number of quirky characters wandering around, but the real local characters shone through. It's not for everyone, but if you're the type that likes to sit back and people watch, this is for you. Simply lovely.

The Hero (I) (2017)

Sam Elliott is the Star

[6/10 · 2 February 2022]

I've loved Sam Elliott since The Lifeguard and Katharine Ross since The Graduate. You would be hard pressed to find a more lovely couple who have created so many amazing roles and comported themselves so well. Elliott's role was first class, but what killed the good vibe was the Charlotte character. Older people can become invisible to most others, but her character grinding him into the mud for the sake of a crappy comedy gig was gross.

The Beautiful Lie (2015)

Painful but Realistic

[7/10 · 27 January 2022]

This is a visually pleasing but painful depiction of how foolish we can be, especially in relative youth. From the outside looking in, we in the audience cringe at the boneheaded choices so many of the characters make. Sadly, it's true to life in many ways.

The South Westerlies (2020)

Uneven characters with uneven plot

[6/10 · 11 January 2022]

Overall, I enjoyed the scenery and some very good acting. The Baz actor was the biggest turn off for me. I love Patrick Bergin in anything! The character of Kate was another downer as a conniver. Just my opinion, but I had hoped for a happier experience where my ancestors once called home.

Red Rock (2015–2020)

Irritating on a Personal Level

[7/10 · 23 December 2021]

I will keep watching despite my huge irritation regarding McGonigle getting away so long with his heinous behavior on this show. Even I would know how to use my smart phone to record conversations and video of important liaisons depicted in this series. It's completely unbelievable that a cop would be too incompetent in this day and age to take proactive steps after being almost beaten to death. Come on!

The Moorside (2017)

True Crime Drama with Background

[7/10 · 9 December 2021]

I enjoyed the acting and watch a lot of true crime dramas. In some ways, it seems like the most broken characters are provided excuses, but it very accurately reflects true life. Damaged people do not typically aspire to high morals or honesty about their behavior. They focus on survival, a woeful nest in which to bring vulnerable people like children.

Inside No. 9 (2014–2024)

Spotty but entertaining

[7/10 · 5 December 2021]

When the episode is good, it's the best! When it's not, it can be tedious. Pick and choose for yourself for optimal viewing :) Perhaps the cultural translation is part of it.

Tab Hunter Confidential (2015)

Surprisingly great biography!

[8/10 · 28 November 2021]

This was a wonderful tribute to a very nice man who grew up in a time that was not kind to him. Thank you for revealing a full bodied portrait of good soul who was more complex and special that many of us realized.

Trial & Retribution (1997–2009)

The Barristers are to Die For

[10/10 · 19 November 2021]

Overall, I found this a very well written series with good legs. Simon Callow, Corin Redgrave, and. David Fleeshman were spectacular as the barristers of the day. Ms. La Plante is a delicious storyteller. Kudos!

The Many Saints of Newark (2021)

If You're a Sopranos Fan...

[9/10 · 3 October 2021]

It's a no-brainer if you're a true fan and miss the show. Ignore the really low scores and enjoy. I like Tony even better after this prequel.

My Big Fat Fabulous Life (2015– )

Whitney is the least likable bit others ARE

[6/10 · 28 September 2021]

I was drawn to Whitney's friends and family. Todd is the most entertaining, Tal and Ashley are great, and her Mom (and dad sometimes!) are very lovable. I appreciate the vacations and sometimes physical challenges, but Whitney flops all the time with lack of commitment or self-serving weird situations. This is her show, and the embarrassing forced love life scenarios are really bad. I wish that she would focus on herself and real and positive people and quit trying the other stuff. Value those really close to you. They are real gems!

I Was A Teenage Felon (2019– )

Bunch of Immature Losers

[2/10 · 28 September 2021]

Please avoid. You will never get those hours back in your happy life. Who wants to hear idiotic exploits of teen punks who trashed everyone for quick bucks?

City Confidential (1998–2023)

Classic Storytelling Personified

[10/10 · 24 September 2021]

I absolutely loved each engrossing episode of local culture, characters, and murder so foul. Paul Winfield drew us in with his charm and storytelling genius, and I've greatly missed this show. I'm praying that the new reboot maintains the high standards and lowbrow love of gritty dirty crime.

Crownies (2011)

Crownies is King

[8/10 · 4 September 2021]

I just ran across this series after watching Janet King. Wish I had started here. What a charming cast of characters who draw us in to living their world! There are no real downsides, but Uncle Tony needs a haircut...