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Goosebumps (2023)
Had potential, fell flat at the end
Fans of the original book series should know this show is nothing like that- it's darker and the protagonists are teenagers instead of younger kids. Zero nostalgia factor, so if that's what you were hoping for, look elsewhere.
That said, the episodes in the middle of the first season were fairly okay and overall the series had potential.
The writing is why this isn't getting a higher rating from me. The motivations behind the characters' actions- particularly those of the villains- are nonsensical to the point of frustration. The last two episodes of the first season were disappointing and fell flat in their attempt to create lore and explain the origin of the evil that had been haunting the characters.
I don't have an issue with the showmakers changing the tone of the OG series to appeal to an older, Gen Z audience but there are too many plotholes- too much about the choices characters make and about the world that just doesn't make sense within the context of the series, and that's never really explained to the point of satisfaction.
Grandmother's Farm (2013)
Beautifully done- and criminally underrated
An incredibly eye-opening film. The directing was superb. Every actor performed masterfully (although Yasser Al-Nayadi in particular must be applauded- his emotions could be felt through the screen). The horror was uniquely Emirati and the realism added to the movie by the special effects simply heightened said horror.
The film's purpose is twofold- aside from being a horror, it functions as an introduction for many to Emirati cinema, and portrays the culture with stunning accuracy.
We will admit that the negative reviews shocked us at first, but when taking into account a few things, these can be understood.
Firstly, the majority of reviewers seem to hail from the West, and their cinematic standards have been largely shaped by Hollywood. Grandmother's Farm stands strong as a rejection of the colonisation of cinema. Its true beauty can only be seen through fresh eyes, and so we encourage any potential viewers to keep this in mind.
Secondly, the intricacy of the plot and the overall writing of the movie means that the symbolism is not easily grasped- this is not a movie for casual viewing, which is something reviewers seem to have missed. Things become clearer upon the viewing of Grandmother's Farm 2, a quality cinematic experience that almost surpasses that of its predecessor.
-Zahraa and Imaan, who wait in eager anticipation of Grandmother's Farm 3
P. S. Instead of gouging your eyes out, you may want to open them- to the artistry and charm of Emirati cinema.