erraticse Reviews

The Great Escapists (2021)

Flawed but Underrated

[8/10 · 2 February 2021]

I suspect many reviewers here have only watched the first episode. This show could have been better executed, but it's still a fun show. The first episode is a bit rough, but it does get better. I watched all 6 episodes in the first season and I found myself really enjoying it by the end despite its flaws.

The concept is amazing and the hosts are fantastic. The show has two major issues that hold it back: the hokey narrative and the lack of footage showing the builds. They should have dropped the cheesy storyline and done it more like a Grand Tour challenge. The time they saved from dropping the corny narrative could be used to show the actual builds like they did on Mythbusters. These two changes could have made this show a classic. All that said, the show still has many great moments and is worth watching.

Star Wars: The Rise Of Skywalker (2019)

A movie without a story to tell

[6/10 · 28 December 2019]

Star Wars: Episode IX is, at times, a decent thrill ride, and it provides us with some satisfying moments, but it fails to tell a compelling story. It feels empty. It rushes through a corporate checklist of must-have moments at a chaotic pace. It manages to thrill with epic space battles, but it lacks a soul. There's no creative vision here, no story to tell. The pressure that comes with making a Star Wars movie seems to have shackled the creators, preventing them from doing anything interesting with the film. It's a shame. The Star Wars universe is one of the greatest fictional universes ever created. It should provide fertile ground for many new and interesting stories. If I were Disney I would take a serious look at the creative process for these films. They could probably learn a thing or two from Marvel Studios.

The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance (2019)

Breathtaking Visuals

[9/10 · 9 September 2019]

This series is beautifully done. The artistry behind the puppets and sets is astounding. The acting and writing is excellent as well. Jim Henson would be proud.

One warning for families with young kids: Dark Crystal is surprisingly dark and may upset some younger children.

Lucifer (2016–2021)

Stick with it for season 4!

[9/10 · 19 July 2019]

Seasons 1-3 are a lot of fun but they have their ups and downs. Season 4 is phenomenal and easily makes Lucifer one of the best shows of 2019. There were times during the first few seasons when I considered dropping the show but I'm so glad I stuck with it for season 4. Netflix is doing a fantastic job with the show. I only wish they were running it from the beginning.

Lucifer: Super Bad Boyfriend (2019) Season 4, Episode 8

Excellent character development

[10/10 · 17 July 2019]

Many reviewers focused on the political messages in this episode. In doing so they overlooked some of the best character development in the show so far. Lucifer's realizations about himself and his relationships in this episode were a huge step forward for his character and the show.

Lucifer: Boo Normal (2018) Season 3, Episode 25

Breaks Continuity

[8/10 · 11 July 2019]

This is actually a decent episode where we get to know Ella better but it has a critical flaw: it completely breaks continuity with the plot line. I enjoyed it but I'd actually recommend skipping it and moving straight to season 4. This episode breaks continuity so badly I would consider it be non-canon.