EllieMBlake Reviews

NCIS: Butterfly Effect (2023) Season 20, Episode 16

Where is the NCIS magic?

[5/10 · 17 May 2024]

When I first discovered NCIS, I could not get enough of the stories and characters. I wanted to watch each and every episode. That was many years ago back when it was Gibbs, DeNozzo and Ducky.

I've tried to be open to the cast which have a hard act to follow, but the chemistry is missing and I'm not engaged or inspired by any of it.

This episode was lukewarm, like a bath that needs more hot water on a cold winter's night. Parker is never going to match the legendary Gibbs. Knight is unlike any of the wonderful female agents they've had front and centre. Torres isn't Ziva. These characters from years ago had heart, soul and dimensions. Maybe it's the script, or the actors, I don't know.

The personal drama didn't hook me in, the stakes just didn't feel high and I didn't care if the case was solved.

I caught an old episode, where Bishop was overseas with Gibbs and a guy was granted US asylum. The marine roots really made such a difference. The rules mattered. Fighting for what's right, our values were all part of the package.

NCIS needs a massive rethink. What about an all female elite force with Bishop and Ziva with an international element? Kate's death was faked and she's back. Abbie is doing her thing too. Crazy stuff, but with guest appearances from DiNozzo, then other women who have also been significant B stories, they all had something, but couldn't shine in a very male dominated past.

I doubt it could happen since mainstream channels buckle down to tradition in these tough economic times, so they ditch diversity, originality, and creativity. Perhaps it's a Netflix or Amazon project which could come up with a fresh take on a now tired but much loved show to deliver 20 more years of drama that we watch repeatedly, craving, and wanting more.

I'm still loyal and try to watch NCIS. Jimmy and Tim carry some of the old charm that we loved in NCIS, but they aren't enough. It was always going to be tough post Gibbs' exit, but we need a young Gibbs prequel or some cooler spin-off that injects new energy into the current NCIS. I'd like for it to continue in some form, but it needs resuscitation, because the show is dying. It's very sad.

9-1-1: Sink or Swim (2019) Season 3, Episode 2

Impressed

[9/10 · 14 May 2024]

Most 911 episodes are run of the mill and I confess I fall asleep because the scripts aren't always great.

However, this episode really had pace, suspense and drama. I was so invested in the story, as well as what would happen to Buck and Christopher. The two of them, and their relationship, really do add so much to this series.

The hotel scenes seemed a bit over the top, but at the same time, they were intense.

It was lovely to see Santa Monica pier and the ferris wheel. It brought back memories of my last visit.

I was caught up in this episode that by the end, I began to wonder if a tsunami had ever hit LA. 🤣

Grey's Anatomy: We've Only Just Begun (2024) Season 20, Episode 1

Could be better, but it could have been worse

[7/10 · 30 March 2024]

I'm not super invested in any of the characters or stories so far. There weren't any clever lines in the script or moments that really resonated with me, like some of the last few seasons.

I also felt the women weren't portrayed as strongly as previously. It's fine they show vulnerability, but it was almost all of them needing the guys to prop them up eg Jo and Link, then in the ambulance, Teddy's operation - come on - would it really only be the male surgeons that xan keep it together, and Teddy's story too. It grated on me. Having women that were slaying it was empowering and has been one of the greatest aspects of the show.

There were too many spoilers were on social media so the element of surprise was totally gone when I watched this episode. I didn't get that emotional punch which some previous Grey's stories have done exceptionally well.

I was thrilled GA is back. It's a pair of comfortable old shoes that I can't bear to throw away, but the magic has gone. I did enjoy some of the last few seasons.

I binge watched over several months the last 5 years after not watching it forever. Some were must see and I couldn't help wanting more now and then.

I realise that when they get enough medical drama in rather than go heavy on the personal lives, it works better. My mind just starts wandering and I get bored, I do the dishes and skip bits, especially where there's quite a few characters I'm not fussed about.

They've written out most of the characters I got attached to. It's a shame, as it is characters which really are the beating heart of it. The mega memorable ones who we grew to love is what made this show so amazing.

I will keep watching it, but I do feel sad that it's nowhere near the outstanding drama it once was.

Diagnosis Murder: An Education in Murder (1998) Season 5, Episode 19

Teen drama meets Grey's Anatomy & Murder She Wrote

[7/10 · 4 August 2023]

I don't usually watch Diagnosis Murder, but I saw Will Estes from Blue Bloods and ended up watching bits. I hadn't realised Estes started off as a child actor. Seeing Dick Van Dyke too, who was in Mary Poppins, then googling to read he is 97 years old and going to the gym still. I recognised one of the actresses as also once being in Charmed.

The disturbed teenager story was interesting. I might actually watch more Diagnosis Murder episodes now. I can see why it lasted so many seasons. I remember watching Murder She Wrote as a kid but I've not really ever gotten back into the genre other than the law / procedural crime dramas.

I wasn't drawn into the love interest medical staff plotline that had Grey's Anatomy vibes. Perhaps it's because I don't know or nor am I invested in these characters.

There's something nostalgic about these older shows which seem more PG / family friendly that feels like it's so rare these days.

Young Sheldon: Future Worf and the Margarita of the South Pacific (2022) Season 6, Episode 2

A Solid Dramedy Episode

[7/10 · 17 July 2023]

Sheldon & Missy's chemistry is gold. I've always had a soft spot for the feisty overlooked youngest Cooper. I'm loving how she has annoyed Sheldon & seems to have bested him in this episode.

Meemaw's character also gets more screen time, and it makes a great contrast to how the characters are coping with the latest family drama.

There's tension too with Mary's storyline, her new job & relationships.

The father-son scenes with Sheldon reminded me of a lot of parent-child dynamics where they are feigning interest. The script fell down a little here & could have had more wit.

Chuck Lorre has come a long way in his television comedy. There weren't huge laugh out loud moments, which is what I've always enjoyed. However, he has created compelling characters that I've become invested in.

It is taking me a while to get back into this series. Like many other reviewers mentioned regarding episode 1, it is an adjustment and the creators are feet finding and throat clearing. This definitely was a better script compared to the previous episode, though I adore the premise they set up in episode 1. We could do with much more humour & I hope this season doesn't disappoint.

Strike Back: Legacy: Part 3 (2015) Season 5, Episode 3

Yay for Yeoh

[8/10 · 11 May 2023]

I love that Michelle Yeoh is in this episode. She is such an amazing actress. I would have preferred more Yeoh and less Yakuza.

The Yakuza / Asia story felt a little clunky. The action scenes - shootings & car chase - were all tense and well done. The waterfalls and natural landscape were stunning.

Stylistically I find Strikeback interesting because it can be abrupt in scene changes. The plot can be a bit tangled and confusing, but for the most part, I enjoy the wild ride.

The main cast are generally engaging. I also appreciate that they try to include tough female characters who can hold their own in a fight.

Castle: XY (2015) Season 8, Episode 1

Great start to s8

[8/10 · 28 April 2023]

Loved this episode. The script writing was brilliant.

I especially enjoyed the detail around Ryan & Espo with their version of rock, paper, scissors, Ryan talking about his worries, and the humour of their banter, his hope for overtime - it was a great scene.

Daisy Betts had a Julia Roberts vibe. The intro of Hayley as a new character was well done and the transition of Alexis more into the PI world was good too. The new office is super cool btw.

The twists weren't as great in this episode but overall it was a solid story, decent acting and less quirky / crazy / unbelievable, which I prefer.

Castle: Hollander's Woods (2015) Season 7, Episode 23

Castle's Story gets better

[8/10 · 27 April 2023]

"One day you will look back and you will realise that every experience you ever had, every seeming mistake or blind alley was actually a straight line to who you were meant to be." ~ Rick Castle

This quote resonates with me. As time goes by, I feel like this is so true and it helps me to see everything with a different mindset and perspective.

This episode takes the origins of Castle's story, his why he writes and creates a compelling story that adds much more to his character. It makes him less one dimensional, which often he seemed during season 1. Other than his humour and love for his daughter, they always needed more depth for him, and this glimpse into his path makes me enjoy the show even more.

Beckett's career is also full of tension and conflict. I've always loved how they have a strong successful woman. I've often wished they would do a reboot called Beckett.

Castle: Kill Switch (2014) Season 7, Episode 8

Speed Vibes

[8/10 · 6 April 2023]

Espo is Keanu Reeves and there's a Sandra Bullocky transit cop too! Cliche pizza, Beckett working the case and saying there's nothing we can do by staying at the scene, the opposite of the Espo / Ryan burning building episode.

It wasn't as much fun watching this one. It didn't have as much cheeky humour, though Castle's too soon jokes were a great touch. There was instead, exploration of relationships and the emotional issues, guys struggling to talk about their feelings or face them, and how life / death situations can bring clarity - a theme often repeated throughout the series.

The snide salesman's remark about inclusivity stood out in light of today's diversity /privilege conversations.

The scenes away from the train detracted from the tension. It would have been far better to focus on the train as those scenes were done exceptionally well.

The last quarter of the episode is a bit too much of a reminder of the horrors we've experienced in recent years. Maybe that's why I'd rather just a speed-type episode on the train. :p.

A Rainy Day in New York (2019)

Mediocre

[5/10 · 31 March 2023]

I watched half of it and lost interest. The acting was decent but the pacing too slow. There wasn't any conflict, intrigue, compelling characters, plot or anything which drew me into this movie.

The script seemed OK, visually it was fine and I guess if I was stuck in a room forced to watch it, I wouldn't hate it or poke my eyes out.

What I think is problematic is that there is nothing new, fresh, surprising or modern, and it doesn't even feel like a comfortable classic.

Even moments that had psychological resonance, like awkward kisses, running into old class mates and the sort of situations you might empathise with, they just left me feeling nothing.

Castle: The Way of the Ninja (2014) Season 6, Episode 18

Inspired writing and storyline

[8/10 · 20 March 2023]

Loved this episode. It was full of character depth, weaving of plot lines and mystery. The twists, pace and red herrings were masterfully done.

Castle's humour is brilliant. The fight scenes were awesome. The Beckett / Castle dynamics were magic, especially the argument that culminated in the sameness discussion. The thematic repetition of boring was satisfying and a lovely touch.

The actress who played the heroine and saves the day had a great backstory too. Her acting was pretty good and I'm surprised I've not seen more of her in film and television. The villains were super cool.

Season 6 didn't always impress me, but this ninja one, I would recommend.

Castle: Time Will Tell (2013) Season 6, Episode 5

Mystery and Conflict

[7/10 · 1 March 2023]

I love how the writers weaved mystery with conflict in this episode. Castle disagrees with Alexa's decision to move in with her bf. The clever way the ending was left open about whether future man, Simon from 2035, is for real, with ambiguity and words left unsaid is satisfying.

There's always enough tension to keep the viewers guessing. The humour and characters keep me coming back.

Castle's frustration with his house guest is so relateble. Alexa's need for independence reminds me of being a teen. When Catherine raises the psychological aspect of how Alexa might be feeling with their engagement, it added such realism.

When Castle hears this case involves time travel, "this just became my favourite case" is such a great line. It's so authentic to his personality and crazy theories.

A classic Castle episode.

Scandal: Over a Cliff (2018) Season 7, Episode 18

Season 7 - anti-climactic snooze-fest

[6/10 · 13 February 2023]

I finally watched Season 7. Overall I was disappointed. This used to be a show I loved. It was my guilty pleasure. The characters' storyline seemed inauthentic. The pacing was so slow. The magic of gladiators and plot twists were lost. I was bored and easily distracted. The flicking between character point of views between episodes was an interesting device, but perhaps made the show's flow awkward and prevented the immersive quality we love about TV. There were some memorable characters, but you fell out of love with all of them in season 7. Also, it became too preachy and agenda based, rather than true to its season 1 roots.

Felicity: A Good Egg (2000) Season 3, Episode 8

Authentic and honest moments

[8/10 · 19 January 2023]

The characters have psychological depth and the plot has inevitability, with consequences that are credible and logical, like Elena's relationship, Ben's feeling about Felicity having a baby with Javier and Noel desperately wanting to impress Jane.

I love the twists and surprises - Richard being with Jane and Ben finding out Molly owned the drugs. They are the unravelling threads on a sweater.

It struck me how Ben is extra-protective of Felicity because of how much he has gone through with his Dad. He is vulnerable, lost and trying to become a man. I'm loving the growth and how much he has developed since Season 1.

I prefer these episodes which focus on Ben and Felicity. I find their characters fascinating and it is their story which has pulled me in since the Pilot episode.

I miss the Dear Sally or Sally responding. The narrative voice really pulled it all together, creating a more distinct beginning and ending for each episode. It feels more complete and satisfying.

The deliberate attempts to create hooks feel a little forced, though I do enjoy the humour thrown in before the opening song, but it does seem less consistent in tone and genre than the remaining 40+ minutes.

It's also interesting to see gay marriage, parenting and IVF addressed, which I don't think was common in the 90s, as it is now.

The plot felt natural and the drama less forced / amped up. The pacing was perfect.

Scott Speedman's acting was nuanced and impressive. Keri Russell was flawless. Noel's character is totally creeping me out. He plays a stalker well. 😝 Yet I also feel sorry for him. I'm not sure it's believable Jane would really be torn between Richard and Noel. This bit doesn't seem plausible, but then, perhaps this might be explained or seem more credible as the story unfolds.

Overall, 'A Good Egg' was a much better episode compared to some of the others in Season 3. I was totally weirded out by the Ben's Dad / Felicity aside. That was so messed up. The I'm going to be Jewish now episode also was flat. I'm looking forward to seeing where it goes with Molly, how Noel manages the awkwardness with Jane and of course, the Felicity / Ben relationship. Some TV shows don't work when the couple finally get together, but the tension continues and you keep rooting for these two to stay together, to overcome their issues and live happily ever after. It truly does appeal to the romantic at heart.

The Rhythm Section (2020)

Couldn't be bothered watching it all

[5/10 · 29 March 2022]

While I like Jude Law and Blake Lively, I just want that interested in this movie. I tried watching bits, but I didn't feel gripped. In the end I watched about 1/3 of it.

There wasn't enough tension. The characters weren't convincing. It was all a bit blah. The movie had potential. I liked that different wigs and looks were used. It reminded me of the tv series Alias. I'm a fan of action movies but perhaps the main characters uncertainty made her seem weak and dull.

I caught some of the end. It wasn't shocking or surprising, which I think was the intention. I was left thinking so what?

S.W.A.T.: Cash Flow (2019) Season 2, Episode 18

Another big episode that has the wow factor

[9/10 · 2 March 2022]

I loved the intensity, action and pace of this episode. There are not enough shows like this on tv any more. Shemar is brilliant and leads an outstanding cast.

After re-watching To Sir With Love last night, it does amaze me how so few leading men of colour are given opportunities to showcase their talent. I'm glad this is one show that does.

When the big gun came out to shoot the bus, it was an 'Oh my!' moment. I think that's what I like about S. W. O. T. It can be so over the top but that's what I want. It doesn't apologise or shy away from difficult issues which is also what makes it exceptional. The characters are consistent and audiences become invested in their stories.

Thankfully the money problems situation is seemingly resolved. Jay's character is one of my favourites and the direction he was taking was not one that I wanted to continue as it was hard to see how he could remain otherwise.

I was a fan of The Shield and thrilled that Shawn Ryan has created S. W. O. T.

Crossing Lines: Redux (2015) Season 3, Episode 1

Unlike seasons 1 & 2 & overall a disappointment

[3/10 · 2 March 2022]

The first episode of the season could have been an exciting reboot for the series, but it has lost the credibility and sophistication of the cast in seasons 1 & 2. Bernero's departure as executive producer has had a clear change in tone and style.

The European flavour seemed diluted which was disappointing. The episode centred on the Netherlands. What made previous Crossing Lines' episodes a bit different was seeing various countries. This episode felt like it was more like an American drama, though one with minimal tension and intrigue.

A show which crosses borders, promoting collaboration and cooperation, is such a relevant theme. It's a shame there isn't more like that. Seasons 1 and 2 seemed to try to have more diversity, something which didn't come across in this episode.

Season 2 ended with such a bang. It was one of the better episodes.

I'll give season 3 a chance because I'd like to see where they go with Goran Visnjic (from ER) and Michelle Fairley (from Game of Thrones). They are decent actors with some gravitas. Their performances were solid. They seem to be the only ones with potential for character depth and development.

I love procedural crime shows, but this is one series that has not always been gripping. It's watchable but not one I would ever want to rewatch. It seems like there are less procedural dramas these days, perhaps reflecting a disillusionment with the justice system, police services and the importance of laws.

The first scenes introducing Goran's character were the best and held so much promise. It was a cool idea to strand the hostage on an isolated place accessible by boat. It didn't seem believable though that the bad guy would leave his phone unattended if he is clever enough to take the gas from the boat. The sniper shot was a nice touch but didn't deliver on the excitement factor.

I recognise there are challenges for a new team taking on an existing project. It is disappointing that they did not build on the show's strengths and have strayed so far from its identity.