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Published by Mason Oldridge, 1 July 2024 Netflix pulls out all the stars but not the stops in its latest romcom offering. The film sees aspiring director Zara disapprove of her arrogant movie star boss Chris’ budding age-gap relationship with her older mother Brooke. Leading the cast is big hitter Zac Efron, along with veteran stars Nicole Kidman and Kathy Bates, while established Netflix star Joey King plays the distraught daughter. While the comedy is far from laugh out loud, there are some moments to make you at least smirk, particularly from Zac Efron as the egotistical Hollywood actor comes out with some chuckle-worthy statements. However, the romantic storyline ultimately falls flat. Credit due for not placing the age gap as the primary issue but there is still a lack of chemistry felt between the twosome. Their dates are not entertaining to watch, risking viewers zoning out in these moments and, in fact, the comical encounters between Zara and Chris are much more enjoyable for the audience than the interactions between the new lovebirds. In conclusion, the film is not necessarily bad but rather somewhat lacklustre. 5/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 24 June 2024 You’re gonna need a bigger boat for this French action-horror that has taken the Netflix charts by storm. The film sees a marine researcher team up with the Parisian river police when a mako shark becomes lost in the Seine in the run up to a triathlon in the city. Any prenotions that this is just another entry of the saturated shark attack subgenre following the likes of the Meg and 47 Meters Down series’ can be kiboshed as it maintains enough originality to stand on its own.  First of all, the shark has ventured inland to Paris and therefore is not set in the sea. Also, there are a few shocks in the film compared to the subgenre’s relative predictability, such as when environmentalist Mika leads a group of followers to the catacombs and enters the water, only to launch a scary mass attack resulting in several deaths. Furthermore, the discovery that Lilith is a new breed which can reproduce asexually and is rapidly doing so highlights the growing scale of the issue. However, the best element of the film is the ending as it moves towards becoming a disaster movie. In opposition to the usual closer in which the shark is captured and killed, attempts to do so reignite unexploded ordnance, culminating in a tsunami and consequential flooding of Paris. The film ends with Sophia and Adil atop a building before revealing how the sharks have spread across the world in an epic yet chilling conclusion. There’s some lulls between action scenes but on the whole, Under Paris separates itself from the other Jaws replicas with a unique approach and a terrifying ending. 7/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 19 June 2024 Netflix adapts Holly Smale’s young adult novel into a feel-good teen drama series. It follows the story of Harriet Manners, a socially-awkward high school student who is unexpectedly discovered by a fashion agency to become their next top model. This dramatic change affects her life in many ways. She is thrust into a world of which she is very much not accustomed to and struggles with all the eyes on her. This new experience also presents her with new enemies, dealing with both CEO Jude’s dislike and fellow model Poppy’s jealousy. Additionally, it causes a rift between her and her childhood best friend Nat, who always dreamt of being a model. However, for all the snags that come with it, she receives much more positivity on the whole. She is appreciated and respected by others for the first time and comes to find that she actually enjoys the fashion world. She is also given a first taste of dating and relationships as male model Nick takes a shine to her. Furthermore, despite being initially sceptical, her parents are incredibly proud of her and she learns that her stepmother Annabelle does in fact not hate her but rather the opposite. Above all, her venture into the fashion world becomes a journey of self-acceptance as she grows in confidence through the help of both pre-existing and new friends and family. With this, she dares to stand up to her school bullies as well as confront Jude and not let Poppy’s final attack ruin her turn on the catwalk. Following her attempts to change herself, the way she instead finally embraces her geek personality is particularly touching and the reveal that Yugi’s new campaign is called Geek is a nice closer to the series. Emily Carey is stellar in the lead role and the series deserves praise for the way it references the protagonist’s autism without overtly focusing on it or aligning to its stereotype. In conclusion, the series is easy-watching and very heartwarming, with strength in both its characters and storytelling. 8/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 17 June 2024 Fresh off his success in Anyone But You, Glen Powell leads in Netflix’s new black comedy film based on the unbelievably “somewhat true story”. The film follows Gary Johnson, a university professor who moonlights as a fake hitman for the police department. Johnson is shy and mild-mannered though takes on a much more confident personality when acting as a contract killer, finding he is successful in the role and obtains a high conviction rate. However, one day, when he is 'hired' by Madison Masters, a wife wishing to have her abusive husband killed, he becomes sympathetic towards her situation and instead tells her to take the money to start a new life. This is where the real life aspect ends and a series of chain events follow as Johnson begins a secret, sexual relationship with Masters, remaining in his hitman persona. It is refreshing to see a film with such a different and unpredictable storyline. There is a slight flaw in the ending as Gary fought to keep his connection to Madison a secret, only to eventually go public and start a family, though this can be overlooked in order to maintain the happy ending. Furthermore, it is pleasingly unusual that the film delivers such an ending in which a couple are given their happy ever after, despite being responsible for two murders. Powell excels in his role as it is comical to see Johnson put such detailed effort into his work, researching his 'customers' and creating a tailored persona for each of them, with many of his characters being hilarious to see. Hit Man deserves praise for taking an incredible true story and expanding on it with such originality, something rare in film these days. 8/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 11 June 2024 Good day sunshine! Benedict Cumberbatch leads the cast in Abi Morgan’s new thriller riding atop the Netflix charts. When puppeteer Vincent Anderson’s 9-year-old son Edgar goes missing, he finds his child’s drawings of a new seven-foot tall puppet called Eric and devises a madcap plan to get the creation on his TV show in the hopes that he will see him and come home, set in 1980s New York against a backdrop of homelessness, racism and homophobia. For the most part, Cumberbatch carries the show. Having already proven himself as a versatile actor, he is compelling and captivating as the eccentric and volatile puppet handler with addiction issues, serving as the ultimate anti-hero, drawing comparison with Bryan Cranston’s Walter White. Delicately balancing aggressiveness and vulnerability to which he allows viewers to still emit sympathy towards the character, Cumberbatch delivers one of the greatest performances in television history. The show deserves the utmost praise for the way it cleverly encompasses multiple themes throughout that were present at the time of its setting. Racism is explored as Cecile pushes Letroit to continue pursuing Marlon’s disappearance which results in the discovery of his murder, tying in with the theme of police and political corruption. Homophobia is explored as we see Letroit struggle with his closeted homosexuality, particularly having to secretly deal with the death of his partner from AIDS, as well as the tragic events that were a result of Costello’s hidden sexual orientation. However, the theme that is arguably the most prevalent throughout is homelessness. It is interesting how Edgar chooses to seek refuge in the dangerous underground village over the safety of his home and how the show intelligently links this to Eric’s narrative about being underground when the team is pitching the character. Furthermore, it is genius how Vincent’s speech in Central Park focusing on Edgar deserving a safe home, unintentionally by the character, draws parallels with the homelessness situation and strikes a chord with the protestors. Potentially the most heartwarming part of the series is that, despite being held back by his substance abuse and the imaginary Eric as well as everyone thinking he is going crazy, Vincent’s bizarre plan works. He realises Edgar’s drawings on George’s wall is a map and he follows it to the subway, leading to Edgar’s location which no-one else was able to do. He also manages to get Eric on TV to be seen by Edgar, albeit on the news rather than his TV show, and the plan is successful, reuniting the two following the tearjerking moment in which Vincent says into the camera “Edgar, buddy. If you're watching this, I'll race you home”. Rarely is a show this layered and with Benedict Cumberbatch at the helm portraying such a complex and iconic character, Eric is a truly unique show. 9/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 3 June 2024 Human cloning is happening again in this next gen sequel to the original Canadian sci-fi thriller. Set in 2052 in the Orphan Black universe, a woman awakes with no memory of who she is. Two years later, as Lucy, she has built a life for herself with boyfriend Jack and his daughter Charlie, before her past comes back to haunt her. We learn she was printed by a now adult Kira Manning, who is working as a scientist. Viewers of the original series will know that Kira should know better than anyone the unethicality of human clothing, which begs the question: why has Kira printed someone? The answer comes in the fifth episode as we are given the backstory of Kira and her wife Eleanor, who eventually succumbs to dementia. Heartbroken over her death, a desperate Kira uses her scientific equipment to print a younger copy of Eleanor to allow her time to find a cure. The younger copy, Lucy, has no long-term memory, though Kira is able to print a same-age copy who lives unaware she is a print-out. Horrified at the distress caused to Lucy, Kira dismantles the machine, though later learns her evil billionaire employer Paul Darros had the machine rebuilt and printed a teenage copy of Eleanor called Jules, as well as a younger copy of himself called Xander. Kira, Eleanor, Lucy and Jules then fight against Paul as his team attempts to capture the printed duo to live in his compound. In the final episode, we discover Paul’s wider plan. He has in fact printed copies of twelve exceptionally gifted children to unleash their full potential free of outside influence, one of them being Jules. In the final minutes, Paul shoots Jules dead in front of Lucy and introduces her to a more polite and submissive copy of the teenager. The open-ended close suggests a second season as so much is left unresolved. Krysten Ritter excels in her heroic role of Lucy and rising star Amanda Fix is perfect as the rebellious yet goodhearted Jules, yet we are ultimately left with just another series focusing on human clothing and its immorality in which the clones, this time called print-outs, must fight against corporate evil, this time without elements of religion and suburbia. In conclusion, the series feels somewhat unnecessary and isn’t as compelling or thrilling as the original. Lacking in originality, perhaps a series as brilliant as Orphan Black should be left alone? 6/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 7 May 2024 Jerry Seinfeld might have had a hit on his hands in the 90s with his self-titled sitcom, though he crashes and burns with his directorial debut. The plot details the 1960s creation of the toaster pastries Pop-Tarts and the battle between cereal companies Kellogg’s and Post to deliver it to shelves first. Now, in case you can’t tell from the plot that this isn’t a story worth telling on the big screen, the movie proves it isn’t. Despite a star-studded cast including Seinfeld, Jim Gilligan, Melissa McCarthy, Amy Schumer and Hugh Grant as well as appearances from Peter Dinklage, Jon Hamm and Dan Levy, the comedy is virtually non-existent. There are consistent jokes throughout, they’re just not funny and painfully don’t land. In fact, the only comical joke in the film, in which the rival companies each have moles with obvious cameras on their apparatus, is the only element keeping this film from not obtaining a 0 rating. The comedy reaches an all-time low with the creation of the alive ravioli formed as a sea monkey wrapped in pastry. SMH. Furthermore, with most scenes it is not entirely clear what is going on and how the current act is contributing towards the goal of getting the product to market. However, this is more likely to occur as the film goes on as viewers are bound to zone out, making the movie feel like it has a much longer runtime than it actually does. Watching until the end will certainly result in a mind-numbing and irritable feeling. It is shocking that a reputable and successful streaming giant such as Netflix would distribute such a terrible project. There is one word that stands out when summing up this film. Embarrassing. 1/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 25 April 2024 The Australian teen comedy-drama reboot returns, following up its mediocre first season with a sensational second run. We see the ensemble cast in their various storylines; Amerie is targeted by a new mysterious enemy Bird Psycho while involved in a love triangle between her ex-boyfriend Malakai and new student Rowan, Darren and Ca$h’s relationship is strained due to Ca$h’s asexuality as he fights to leave his old life behind him, Quinni struggles with change in her life, Harper attempts to move on from her ordeal and befriends Ant, who falls for her, Spencer begins a secret affair with Missy, who inspires him to change and become a better person, new student Zoe leads a celibate group, there is a student election between Amerie, Sasha and Spider and returning sports teacher Mr Voss leads a pro-male group the CUMLORDS as a breakaway from the SLTs. Compared to a relatively stale first season, the storylines are a lot more compelling, with particular pick-up towards the latter end of the season as Bird Psycho’s identity is revealed. It is hinted that something happened to Rowan when he was younger and that he had some prior connection to Amerie. In the season finale when Amerie proclaims her love for Malakai in front of Rowan, he traps her and Harper in the AV room while the school is ablaze from an accidental fire set by Mr Voss during a protest and showcases a film revealing that when he was younger, he was in love with Amerie and they bonded over caring for an injured bird, but when they were mocked for giving the bird a funeral, Amerie embarrassed Rowan by claiming to the other kids it was his idea. Rowan lashed out in a rage back at home and his brother was killed in a car accident crossing the road to get their mother for him. Quinni rescues the girls and Amerie saves Rowan as he comes to terms with losing his brother, in truly emotional scenes that highlights Rechner’s incredible performance as the newcomer. However, where every praise is deserved for a dramatic finale, the show is somewhat overshadowed by its desperate wokeness. Most characters are LGBT, offering up an unrealistic representation of high school youth, and it promotes sexual promiscuity and makes light of the difficult subject of abortion as Amerie makes no attempt to consider the pro-life counterpoint. Overall, this second season is a very entertaining and emotive teen series, but needs less reliance on wokeness. 8/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 15 April 2024 Channel 5 presents this new thriller in which Jill Halfpenny plays a lodger with a sinister secret. Claire Goose and Lee Ingleby star as married couple Jessica and Nick Haynes who move to a countryside fixer-upper, much to the disgruntlement of their teenage daughter Alice. To make ends meet, they take in a lodger Sian. However, the new resident exhibits strange behaviour, developing a close bond with Alice by claiming to understand her teen angst and causing conflict in Nick and Jessica’s already-rocky marriage. Early on, we learn that Alice is Sian’s biological daughter, but surely this can’t be the only reveal in the series? Fortunately, a twist comes at the end as we learn that Sian gave birth to a baby called Alice sixteen years ago, yet the infant died the morning she was born. The grief drove Sian to insanity, and she began looking for adopted girls with the same name and birthday, believing the Haynes’ daughter to be her own and attempting to kidnap her. The series culminates in an action-packed finale in which Sian stabs Nick, before a clifftop showdown, which ends with Sian plummeting into the waters. There is also one final teaser twist at the end as a character resembling Sian turns up at a house, with another teen Alice answering the door, hinting that Sian survived. Lee Ingleby deserves praise for his performance as the frustrated and manipulated Nick and Freya Hannan-Mills demonstrates a multitude of emotions, while Halfpenny excels as Sian, delicately balancing villainy and vulnerability. She showcases her psychotic side particularly well in the shocking scene in which she violently smashes her head into the mirror multiple times to frame Nick for abuse. It may be relatively simple and straightforward, but for a Freeview production, the series is well-paced and rather gripping. 7/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 22 March 2024 Jason Watkins leads the lineup in this new Channel 5 drama. The plot is straight forward yet nevertheless compelling. Mild-mannered husband and father-of-one Simon Henderson is struggling with mortgage payments and being made redundant. When he is intimidated by youth gang leader Jordan, he lashes out and punches him, landing the teen in a coma. Simon claims to have found him unconscious in the street but the lie soon escalates. The pacing isn’t the best given its four-episode run, but there is decent storyline progression as his wife learns the truth, the police edge closer to what really happened and Jordan wakes up and feigns memory loss in bid to blackmail his attacker, leaving Simon torn between handing himself in and going on the run. The acting plays a major part in keeping the story gripping. The contrast between Jason Watkins’ meek and anxious protagonist and Jonas Armstrong’s threatening and violent father of the victim is likely to keep viewers nervous over what will happen next. The ending is somewhat disappointing, however, as more questions arise than answers given. What happened to Harry? Why did Jordan lie about who attacked him? Why was the detective always rubbing her neck? The latter was a recurring motif that teased a purpose that ultimately didn’t exist. Furthermore, it is irritating that Jordan got to keep the money Simon gave him and that the Hendersons are now fearful to return home given the lifelong threat from Paul. Coma is easy-watching but nothing groundbreaking, only what is expected from a Freeview production. 6/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 19 March 2024 Lindsay Lohan’s new romcom on Netflix may be a fantasy but it is far from magical. The plot sees book editor Maddie, who is in love with her author colleague Paul despite her best friend marrying him, wish upon an ancient stone while in Ireland for the wedding to be the one marrying him. She wakes up to find the wish has come true, but then begins falling in love with the photographer James. Upon reading this basic plot, viewers should have known exactly what they were in for as the story is entirely predictable. However, credit is due for its few merits. The Irish theme is coherent throughout as Paul is Irish, the wedding takes place in Ireland, the fairy is St Brigid, patroness saint of Ireland, and was released in time for St Patrick’s Day. Furthermore, there is an added layer of meaning via the theme of fate and destiny. The wish gives Maddie the life she thought she wanted with Paul, though through her interactions with James, learns that perhaps she was destined to be with James instead, like Paul and her best friend. While the film isn’t necessarily bad, it feels more like a Hallmark daytime movie in contrast to the high quality we’ve come to expect from the streaming giant. 5/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 18 March 2024 Guy Ritchie’s action film is adapted into a Netflix series as a new fast-paced crime caper. The series maintains a similar plot to the original film. Aristocratic middle child Eddie returns home as his father lays on his deathbed and the whole family are stunned to learn that he has inherited the estate and Duke title, much to the fury of eldest child Freddy, who reveals being passed over means he can’t pay his debts. Upon learning he owes £8 million to a Scouse crime lord, Eddie is forced into a dangerous world to protect his brother. Furthermore, he learns a weed operation is running on the property, headed by Susie of the notorious Glass crime family, and must work with her to remove his family’s involvement. As Eddie is thrust into a world he is not accustomed to, the series is gripping from its incredible first episode, which culminates in the intense scene of Freddy having to dance like a chicken. Viewers will know they are in for a good run as the verbal abuse leads a high-on-cocaine Freddy to shoot Tommy in the head. High octane drama continues throughout the episodes as Eddie and Susie continue with their dodgy dealings; the chemistry between them can be accredited to the compelling performances of Theo James and Kaya Scodelario. The ending is also strong as Eddie decides to go into business with Susie, eliminating all rivals in the process. Fans are going to want a season two to see the continued business of Eddie and Susie, as well as how Bobby held off The Gospel. There is also a nice sprinkling of comedy throughout the series too, notably Geoff’s excessive nursing of wildlife and the elderly lord’s naked psychotic episode. On a whole, the action thriller is a great blend of dramatic and easy viewing… and we want more! 9/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 7 March 2024 Excellent casting and a delicate story combine perfectly to make for a touching romantic drama series as the David Nicholls novel is given the Netflix treatment. Students Emma Morley and Dexter Mayhew meet at a graduation party at the University of Edinburgh on 15 July 1988. The series then follows their developing relationship by revisiting them on the same date over the next twenty years. This guides us through Emma’s struggles to become a writer and Dexter’s battle with fame as a criticised TV presenter, as well as their respective relationships with other people as they navigate a friendship. Ambika Mod and Leo Woodall are simply sensational in the lead roles, giving them their much-deserved breakthrough in their careers. Their emotionally-charged performances lead audiences to fully immerse themselves in the story and truly believe in the connection the couple have. Every episode is utterly compelling, though notable tear-jerkingly touching moments include the twosome’s catch-up in the maze at the wedding and Emma returning to her flat to choose Dexter in Paris. However, the highlight is when a lonely and intoxicated Dexter calls Emma from the train station after being shouted at by his father, desperate to speak to her, yet to no avail as she is out on a date. A surprise comes towards the end of the series as Emma is hit by a reckless driver and dies in what should indisputably go down as one of the most heartbreaking deaths on television. A devastated Dexter reverts to his self-destructive behaviour, feeling lost and broken, in what is one of the most difficult to watch and hard-hitting scenes of television ever. Rarely is storytelling done this beautifully. The series ends with Dexter taking his daughter to Edinburgh, fading in and out of memories of he and Emma there, ending with their iconic kiss on the city steps. Em & Dex, forever in our hearts. 10/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 16 January 2024 Harlan Coben’s latest Netflix adaptation has arrived, back in the UK with returning regular Richard Armitage and newcomer Michelle Keegan. The plot sees widowed ex-Army officer Maya Stone investigate the murder of her husband Joe (of the wealthy Burkett family) after she witnesses him on the nanny cam and the possible connection to the murder of her sister before. As the series progresses, we learn that the Burkett pharmaceuticals business is corrupt. In the final episode, it is revealed that Maya killed Joe after she found out he murdered her sister when she started investigating the corruption of the business. She then proceeds to expose the family at the expense of her life. This twisty thriller maintains the quality of Coben’s previous series, though more questions arise before any answers. However, the answers don’t disappoint. The reveal that Kierce’s illness has been caused by the Burkett’s medication and that his sponsor is actually a hallucination of his dead former partner is almost as shocking as the main twist. Keegan portrays the headstrong Maya well, while Joanna Lumley masters the manipulative Judith. The hilarious pairing of Detective Kierce with younger detective Marty provides the light-hearted comic relief as well as some sweet moments as Marty cares about Kierce’s condition and Kierce begins to accept his kind-hearted nature. So far, Netflix’s deal with Harlan Coben is proving to offer up strong content for the streaming giant. Here’s to his future adaptations! 8/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 20 December 2023 Netflix’s most watched series of all time gets a game show adaptation amid the original’s long-awaited second season. The real life counterpart to the South Korean thriller stays true to the original for the most part, minus killing the losers of course. The set design is almost an exact replica, featuring notable settings such as the Red Light Green Light playing field, the dormitory, the children’s playground for Dalgona, the residential streets for Marbles and the Glass Bridge. However, some changes were made such as replacing Tug of War with Warships as the third game and adding several psychological and personal tests to eliminate players, often pitting them against each other and creating enemies. With so much effort to maintain accuracy with set design, it’s a shame that wasn’t transferred into the gameplay, even if the tests did make it more interesting. Despite production in England and worldwide casting, the majority of the players were American. Throughout the game, flashback interviews introduced us to notable and memorable players such as Trey and his mother, controversial players Bryton and Lorenzo, eldest contestant Rick and his “gganbu gang”, best friends Bee and Amanda, deaf contestant Jackie, runner-up Phill, and eventual winner Mai. Despite a handful of likeable players, many are manipulative and conniving, untrusting of anyone and overly aware of alliances. It may be the nature of the game but it certainly brings out the worst in humanity, something sad to see. We witness the kind-hearted be eliminated before the cash prize goes to a nasty, undeserving player. Absolute credit to the precision gone into the production but what we’re left with is a toxic environment bred from greed. Still, it’s a nice stopgap while waiting for the new season of the main series. 6/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 18 December 2023 Netflix’s new Christmas film comes in the form of a body-swapping comedy. The plot sees the Walker family involuntarily switch bodies after an incident at an observatory; mother with daughter, father with son and baby with dog. This unsurprisingly happens shortly after they wished they could experience what each other’s lives are like and coincidentally occurs when each person has some really important event going on. From very early on in the film, it is overwhelmingly apparent how unoriginal the story is, following a stereotypical story arc any viewer could foresee. Considering the film stars established actress Jennifer Garner, comedy regular Ed Helms and rising star Emma Myers (Enid from Wednesday), and is directed by McG, the genius behind The Babysitter, it is all the more disappointing to see the film rely on cheesy comedy and childish gags. Furthermore, the Christmas setting serves no purpose other than using it as an additional selling point to market the film. It is completely irrelevant to the plot and sees several unrealistic occurrences for Christmas morning such as the email from Yale and the football coach visiting in person. On the whole, the film is easy-watching and suitable for casual viewing, though this Netflix Original turned out to be anything but. 5/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 11 December 2023 Following on from the All-Stars spin-off in the spring, Ant & Dec are back to Australia for another year of the main series of the survival reality show. After last year’s decision to include a controversial right-wing politician (Matt Hancock), this was replicated again, this time with the charismatic Brexit pioneer Nigel Farage. Reportedly the highest paid contestant ever, it could be believed that he would be the talk of the jungle this year. However, it soon became apparent that someone else would become the one to dominate the series: internet personality Nella Rose. The campmates were still adjusting to camp life when the first conflict arose. First Dates star Fred Sirieux innocently told Nella he was old enough to be her father to which she bewilderingly took offence due to her deceased parents, rejecting his apology as insincere and opting to avoid contact with him moving forward. This began the online backlash against her, even seeing #PoorFred trending that night. Furthermore, she started a confrontational argument with Nigel on the topic of immigration and assigned Fred to washing up after his criticism of her washing efforts out of sheer pettiness. All of this was in addition to inhabiting a lazy lifestyle and an antagonistic attitude as opposed to the teamworking approach of the rest. She was eliminated second. The other talking point of the series was the cooking conflict between Fred and This Morning team member Josie. The maître d' was the natural choice of chef due to his background but when the roles were reassigned and Josie became the new camp cook, Fred struggled to sit back and not intervene, consistently commenting and watching over her, making her uncomfortable. Other notable moments include Nigel’s incredible performances in the eating, drinking and snake coffin trials he faced, the development of actress and singer Jamie Lynn Spears from struggling emotionally to proving herself worthy in a suspended-in-the-air trial, and the blossoming bromance between the top two finalists reality star Sam Thompson and boxer Tony Bellow. Tony was likely popular due to his dry wit and sarcastic outbursts whereas Sam was the life and soul of the camp. The excitable manchild was living out his childhood dream appearing on the show and went on to be crowned King of the Jungle. Despite the format staying the same, camp conflict, interesting conversations and hilarious moments made for another good year. 9/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 31 October 2023 Mike Flanagan is back with his annual Halloween horror series, this time adapted from the works of gothic writer Edgar Allan Poe. The series sees ageing pharmaceuticals company CEO Roderick Usher sitting down with lawyer Auguste Dupin in an abandoned house to give him his “confession”. He recounts the six grisly deaths of his adult children while haunted by their corpses, told through flashbacks, whilst also slowly revealing a crucial act from New Year’s Eve 1979. The series has less reliance on jump scares and instead disturbs with gory and shocking scenes, with each episode focusing on one of the children, culminating in their gruesome death. First is youngest son Prospero, who holds a prestigious orgy. He is teased by a mysterious temptress he doesn’t recall inviting, before the sprinkler system releases acid, burning everyone in attendance to a pile of flesh as the episode abruptly ends. Each following episode will grip as it becomes apparent each ends with a violent death. The following deaths included mauled by a gorilla, falling over a balcony, stabbing themselves after becoming delusional, impaled with falling glass and being sliced in half whilst paralysed. All of them are tormented by this same mysterious woman that was at the orgy, though it is shown the deaths are somewhat deserved as it is apparent the family are evil in relation to being extremely wealthy from the corrupt organisation they were born into. In the final episode, we learn the full extent of what occurred that New Year. Roderick was a whistleblower, assisting Auguste to expose the corruption within the company Roderick was working and unfairly treated at, before double-crossing him in an effort to take over the company. He and Madeline then drugged and bricked in his manager, though the mysterious woman is aware of their crime and offers them a deal: have the world but their bloodline dies with them, to which they accept, showcasing their greed and desire. Back in the present, Roderick and Madeline also meet their deaths and the woman is revealed to be a shapeshifting crow, bringing comeuppance and representing justice. Flanagan’s other series have always fallen victim to comparison with his untouchable first series The Haunting of Hill House, which in fairness is the best, though this comes a close second. 8/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 18 October 2023 The crime-busting trio are back for a third investigation in Hulu’s comedy murder mystery. Picking up from last season’s ending in which the leading man in Oliver’s play, Ben Glenroy, collapses on stage during opening night, the third season focuses on Oliver attempting to rebuild his play while Mabel, feeling abandoned by her co-hosts, undertakes a solo investigation into Ben’s death. The opening episode sets the season in good stead; flashbacks to the first table read reveal that Ben made quite a few enemies with his fellow cast, including Loretta, a new character serving as Oliver’s love interest, portrayed by high-profile guest star Meryl Streep. Back in the present, the cast attend Oliver’s afterparty at The Arconia, where they are stunned to see Ben reappear, a brilliantly unexpected plot twist as Ben did not actually die on stage and announces it was just food poisoning. As Charles, Oliver and Mabel are in the elevator, Charles tells Mabel that they couldn’t have done a podcast anyway as Ben’s murder didn’t take place in the building, before Ben’s bloodied body falls through the roof. The USP of this show is the chemistry between the unlikely friends and the joyous way they bounce off each other so effortlessly. Furthermore, a particular strength of the show is how they are bound together by murder investigations they enjoy solving and the restriction to within the building. Therefore, it is a great shame that this season is dominated by the preparation of Oliver’s play and that most of the investigation is conducted by Mabel without the others. Despite this putting a dampener on the majority of the season, it is rescued when the threesome reunite to solve the mystery following Loretta’s false arrest. Never having held back on casting, this season is no different. Comedy legend Paul Rudd is perfect as arrogant superstar Glenroy whereas Matthew Broderick’s appearance as a fictionalised version of himself who takes method acting to the extreme is hilarious. The ending doesn’t disappoint as it is revealed Donna poisoned Ben to prevent him ruining the show, and consequently her son Cliff’s debut, after reading an early review criticising Ben’s performance. She further admits to pushing him down the elevator shaft before the last minute twist that it was actually Cliff who pushed him after Ben threatened to expose Donna for the poisoning. In the final scenes, the gang are celebrating the success of the play and as Charles’ stunt double Sazz retreats to his apartment, she is shot through the window, creating a murder plot for the already-commissioned fourth season. Despite the lack of investigation with our three heroes, you can’t help but enjoy another outing with these guys amidst a gripping investigation with a satisfying resolution. 7/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 11 October 2023 There’s dodgy jobs aplenty as Vinnie and the gang are back for another run. Following last season’s ending in which Dylan was kidnapped, the group are carrying on with life in his absence. This season sees antics such as hijacking a transport truck, with the driver played by the brilliant guest star Lee Mack, assisting with Barry MacDonagh’s funeral after he is blown up by a landmine, discovering Tommo has a German son, robbing an arcade, enlisting the help of a rat catcher when Jim’s attic is infested, locating a stolen caravan believed to be full of cash and delivering a giant rabbit for Manolito. Also recurring throughout the season is Vinnie attending therapy and his reluctance to work with the MacDonagh’s after their alleged involvement in Dylan’s disappearance. The comedy is kept simple yet funny in both plot and jokes. Tommo and Ash remain the standouts thanks to their hilarious delivery of lines, while Jim is as furious as ever and Cardi mixing up Ted Bundy with Ted Baker is particularly side-splitting. In the penultimate episode, we learn that Manolito is in fact behind Dylan going missing and framed the MacDonaghs. This discovery results in an angry and revenge-seeking Vinnie devising a plot to steal precious art and plant it at Manolito’s house to frame him for the theft. At first, this seems a repeat of the same stunt they pulled to get rid of Terrence McCann, though it justifies itself when it is revealed Manolito is working for McCann. Dylan also makes a guest appearance at the end leaving Vinnie a voicemail confirming he is alive and well. The scene closes with Manolito gun in hand, hinting at a new level of danger for the coming episodes. The fifth season maintains a consistent standard of storyline and comedy, neither an improvement nor a decline from the previous, for what is another good season of the comedy-drama. 7/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 25 September 2023 There is mystery galore in Harlan Coben’s latest adaptation. Coben has a strong catalogue of novels that have been turned into successful series now, though Shelter is the first young adult novel to be adapted, as well as being the first American series. The first in the Mickey Bolitar trilogy, Shelter follows the protagonist as he moves back to his hometown to live with his aunt following his father’s death. Along with his newfound friends, he investigates the disappearance of fellow new student Ashley, alongside the historic missing persons case of his dad’s childhood friend and the truth surrounding his father’s death when creepy neighbour Bat Lady tells him his father is still alive. The mystery is continuously enthralling as the rate of which information is revealed is well balanced, answering questions along the way that keeps the overarching story encapsulating the whole way through. The penultimate episode in which Ashley is rescued is absolutely gripping throughout and the series clings to tension up to the closing moment in the finale when Mickey’s father is discovered. Also, the chemistry between the main students keeps the series entertaining; seeing extroverts Spoon and Ema come out of their shells and develop more confidence is heartwarming, notably when Ema helps Spoon with his theatre audition, and Rachel’s cheerleading routine outshining the poor basketball performance is particularly empowering. Other elements of the series felt somewhat pointless though, such as the relationship between Shira and Hannah and Ema’s relationship with Whitney as they provide no relevance to the main story and neither are fully resolved by the end of the series. Despite this, the mix of high intensity mystery and touching emotional scenes earns this series a high rank among Coben’s several adaptations. 8/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 18 September 2023 Netflix’s latest romcom heads straight to the number one spot on its opening weekend. The film sees Hadley, an American flying to London for her dad’s wedding, share a plane ride with Oliver, a British student flying home for his dying mum’s memorial. The pair strike up a naturally-occurring instant bond and the remainder of the film sees them seeking each other again. However, the narrator Jameela Jamil explains how this film isn’t about love but rather “fate”; something explored from the start as Hadley was supposed to be on a different plane but missed her planned flight. There is also a heavy focus on statistics, in relation to being the topic of study for Oliver at Yale. There is an apparent connection between the two on the plane from the moment Oliver comforts Hadley during take-off and is felt from the audience at home thanks to Haley Lu Richardson and Ben Hardy’s superb performances. It turns out both are experiencing challenging situations in their own lives as Hadley never forgave her father for leaving and Ben is saddened by his mother’s impending death, with Rob Delaney and Sally Phillips also deserving credit for their portrayal of their respective roles. The disappointment and sadness felt by Hadley and Oliver can be seen in their facial expressions, leaving their eventual reunion to be a real tearjerker. The film has a nice plot, sending a message that love will find a way, but it is the level of emotion from the protagonists that earns this film such a high score. 10/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 13 September 2023 The vacation friends are back in this sequel to the Hulu original for more madness and mayhem. The film opens with Marcus and Emily reuniting with Ron and Kyla for a trip to the Caribbean, along with Maurillio to look after baby Marcus. The exotic holiday is dominated by Marcus’ business meeting and the arrival of Kyla’s criminal father, played by Steve Buscemi, with both of these driving the plot. Once again, it is John Cena who leads the comedy in the movie, which is similar in tone to the first, though perhaps has less funny moments. While it is nice to see the two couples getting along, it may be the comedy stemming from Marcus’ frustration at Ron that this sequel is missing. Furthermore, Buscemi’s character only introduces a villain to the story without providing even a smirk. However, Maurillio’s increased role offers up some laughs as he ends up babysitting another child after mistaking the encounter for a date. All in all, this comedy sequel is easy watching but nothing hilarious, much like its predecessor. 5/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 12 September 2023 We head to Barcelona for Netflix’s latest limited series that’s been taking the Netflix charts by storm. The action-packed thriller follows a British teacher in Spain whose former life returns to haunt her when she and her daughter are caught up in a supermarket robbery… and one of the robbers recognises her. We learn that Erin is a badass from the get go as she attacks and kills one of the robbers in self defence and then the other following a confrontation at the school, as well as that she would do anything to protect her family when she blackmails Penelope. The earlier episodes focus on Erin helping Emilio as she becomes increasingly involved in the criminal world he is investigating, but after so many of these action scenes, it becomes a far-fetched tired trope. However, it turns out we don’t have to wait until the end to find out the answer to the eponymous question as episode 4 is a full episode flashback to Erin’s former life. It is here where the series improves as when we return to the present, we learn of the connection between Emilio, Daniel and Lena, leaving us wondering who the bigger bad guy is. The series culminates in an explosion finale, with Lena sacrificing herself and ending in Erin getting the life she wants with her family. Despite the series bearing a striking similarity to another Netflix thriller Pieces of Her, thanks to the beautiful Spanish setting and the praise-worthy acting of Evin Ahmad and Indica Watson (watch out for this rising child star), this show has, deservingly so, made quite the impact on streaming figures. 7/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 31 July 2023 Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling lead a star-studded cast in this summer’s blockbuster, breaking box office records as one half of the Barbenheimer phenomenon. The plot sees Barbie and Ken leave Barbieland to visit the real world in order to help Barbie with her recent existential crisis. Upon Ken’s discovery of patriarchy, he turns Barbieland into one, leaving Barbie and her real world companions to team up with the other Barbies to reclaim their world. The film is undeniably entertaining with excellent casting. Robbie is a perfect choice for the titular character and Ryan Gosling steals the show with his hilarious portrayal of Ken, particularly in the early scenes such as when Barbie rejects him and his failed attempt to surf. Will Ferrell is an unexpected but brilliant choice for the CEO of Mattel and Michael Cera is great with his trademark extrovert character as Allan. The set design of Barbieland is top notch, there are some great musical numbers, with Gosling’s performance of I’m Just Ken being the standout, and there is some genius comedy, notably the limitations of the dolls and Ken’s role of Beach as well as poking fun at the brand’s shortcomings such as the lack of purpose of Allan. Other funny moments include when Ken believes he can obtain a job simply due to being male and the Ken dance scene. Surprisingly, the blockbuster has generated controversy, though it soon becomes apparent why. The film’s portrayal of the real world as a patriarchy is an outdated and unrealistic representation of today’s society. Mattel’s male-only executive board is ridiculous as no organisation today would have no female representation at senior level. At least in Barbieland, the characters recognise and acknowledge the gender imbalance they are inhabiting and rectify this, though this is not repeated in the real world as expected. Furthermore, Gloria’s speech may be empowering, but preaching about female expectations in society to today’s audience feels too late as if calling for a female revolution that has already happened and pushes feminist ideology too strongly. While the film deserves praise for appealing to an older audience, it is too philosophical given it uses a children's doll brand as a vehicle to convey its message. Its themes of self-worth and body confidence sees the film adopt a darker tone than expected, contrasting the pink aesthetic, and the ending in which Barbie becomes a real person ruins the consistency of how the two worlds differ. Overall, the film excels in characters, set design and comedy, though its themes feel forced to align with wokeism which casts a disappointing shadow over the end product. 7/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 18 July 2023 Netflix’s new Adam Sandler-produced action comedy is nothing special but makes for an easy watch if looking for a quick film to stream. Engaged bank manager Owen is excited to meet his future parent-in-laws prior to his upcoming wedding, though following a robbery at his bank, he suspects them to be the culprits of the crime. His fiancé's parents turn out to be infamous bank robbers in debt to a mobster, however, when his fiancé is kidnapped and held ransom for $5m by the mobster, he must work with his in-laws to rob a bank to rescue her. The plot doesn’t feel original and appears to follow an overused movie trope. Additionally, a lot of the comedy in the film is more silly than actually funny. Despite this, there are occasional moments to make you laugh such as the employee locked in the vault during the robbery and there is some warmth when the Ghost Bandits turn themselves in to protect Owen. Furthermore, Pierce Brosnan is perfect casting for the role of Billy McDermott. Overall, the film is quite basic and doesn’t excel in action or comedy, though isn’t necessarily bad as an easy watching flick. 5/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 10 July 2023 Netflix’s new psychological horror film may have people talking, but not always in a positive way. The Australian movie sees mother Sarah become increasingly worried about her 7-year-old daughter Mia’s troubling behaviour following their adoption of a stray rabbit. Mia begins claiming to be Alice and her strange acting becomes clear when it is revealed Alice was Sarah’s younger sister who went missing when she was the same age. Upon hallucinating, Sarah accidentally hurts Mia and it is finally revealed that Sarah pushed Alice off a cliff to her death following a fight and hid the truth. By the ending, we are left wondering how much was Mia actually possessed and how much was in Sarah’s mind. The plot is decent but told in a boring way. For the most part, we are in the dark about why Mia is acting strange and it is frustrating rather than intriguing not knowing why. Therefore, it is more a relief as opposed to a shock to discover the truth. Furthermore, aside from the occurrences when Mia unnervingly appears in doorways, it is not scary. There is an unsettling atmosphere throughout but nothing explicitly horrifying. Also, the rabbit serves little to no purpose to the plot. It is unclear whether the rabbit acts as a motif to represent something such as bringing about the soul of Alice and, given the film’s title and the rabbit’s regular appearances, we spend the film waiting to discover the rabbit’s relation to the story or expect something bad will happen involving it. Run Rabbit Run has a worthy plot to run with, though tells the story in an uninspiring manner to which viewers are likely to disengage before the first revelation. 4/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 21 June 2023 After a four year break due to real life becoming too much like an episode thanks to the coronavirus pandemic, Charlie Brooker brings us five new instalments of the chilling anthology series. The new season kicks off with Joan Is Awful, which feels like a typical episode. The titular character finds her life has been adapted into a series on a streaming service in almost real-time and is an intense warning over the way AI such as ChatGPT (which was actually released after production) is going and what it could grow to become, as well as a stark message to read the terms and conditions. Loch Henry incorporates horror with a twist that doesn’t disappoint. The episode, set in Scotland, is tense throughout as viewers can nervously await the response to the revelation. Beyond the Sea is set in space and, while the premise and featured tech offers an interesting concept, the slow pace across the lengthy runtime ultimately isn’t justified. Mazey Day challenges the morality of paparazzi as a group descend on a reclusive and troubled celebrity in the Czech Republic. The supernatural twist is an unforeseen one and makes for a dramatic yet tragic ending. However, the standout episode is Demon 79. Released under the Red Mirror label due to its non-technological focus, this instalment still inhabits the characteristics of a typical episode: an unnatural situation featuring unnerving characters with a continuously unpredictable conclusion. The chosen form of the demon is hilarious and makes the bizarre scenario all the more gripping. The apocalyptic ending is cinematic though it is the chemistry between the two characters that earns the praise the most. With more atmospheric scenes, shocking twists and disturbing acts, Brooker has successfully added some strong episodes to an already impressive collection. 7/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 1 June 2023 Netflix’s new teen comedy-drama is both heartwarming and heartwrenching, tackling love, deceit, sexuality and family. A spin-off of the To All the Boys film trilogy, the series follows Korean American student and self-proclaimed matchmaker Kitty Song Covey as she travels to South Korea, where she has enrolled in the KISS school to meet her long-distance boyfriend Dae as well as learn about her late mother, who was also a student there. However, upon arrival she is stunned to find that Dae is in a relationship with fellow student Yuri. This initial setup provides the show with a full season of drama. Dae’s fake relationship with Yuri, Kitty falling in love with Yuri, Q and Florian’s relationship, Yuri hiding her sexuality, Min Ho’s hilarious love-hate relationship with Kitty and the history surrounding Alex’s birth parents all contribute towards the interweaving storylines that leave viewers clueless as to where the story is going and how it will end. Love forms the primary concept as Dae and Yuri’s fake relationship and Kitty’s feelings for Yuri sees the creation of a truly complex love triangle. While it is sad to see Kitty’s heart get broken, it is equally as nice to see her develop many bonds with her fellow students and teachers. Anna Cathcart steps up to the plate in the titular role from Kitty’s excitement to meet Dae and find out about her mother’s history to her heartbreak at discovering Dae’s relationship with Yuri and her confusion about her sexuality. The finale leaves a lot of loose ends that will hopefully be tied up in a second season, particularly Kitty’s future at KISS and Kitty’s relationship status following Min Ho’s confession on the plane. There may be no major shocks in the series but XO, Kitty provides a delicate balance of drama and humour while sensitively touching upon difficult subjects too, seeing it excel on its own merit away from the films it arose from. 7/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 22 May 2023 Ant & Dec head to the South African bush for the all-stars spin-off of I’m a Celebrity. The format was advertised as previous memorable campmates returning to battle it out for the title of the first ever I’m a Celebrity Legend. Also, this time it would be pre-recorded with the celebrities facing off against each other to avoid elimination as opposed to public vote. While the changes may sound interesting, it initially appears an unnecessary extra to cash in on the original’s popularity. However, the differing format proved to be a good idea as it meant the celebs triumphed based on skill rather than popularity (except the occasional popularity vote among them to keep things dramatic). Unfortunately, the live broadcast was missed knowing it was filmed back in Autumn. Memorable is a bit of a stretch when it comes to the selection of campmates, though it did feature some standout characters. The return of the dramatic Gillian McKeith was somewhat disappointing as she exited after just a few uneventful days, though Joe Swash and Dean Gaffney’s late arrival provided some comic relief and 2017 winner Toff was as strong and determined as ever. Fatima Whitbread appeared to think she was still in the arena as her competitive nature ruffled a few feathers in camp. She voiced her disapproval of those with contraband, complained about people not doing their jobs correctly and was argumentative in group challenges, making her a very unlikeable contestant to watch. Despite this, the rest of the camp got on relatively well. I originally believed that only past winners should be allowed; how can you become a legend without even being a winner? However, I was proved wrong as the winner was most deserving. A final eating trial with a sickening twist pitted the two finalists against each other in what was the most dramatic trial in the series’ history. Ant & Dec plus the other contestants watched in shock and horror as Myleene Klass ate excessive amounts of disgusting courses, outperforming Jordan Banjo to receive the Legend title and rightfully so. In conclusion, this spin-off turned out to be a deserving counterpart to the original as a great measurement of past contestants' strength and determination. 7/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 20 April 2023 Netflix’s highly-acclaimed new dramedy has got people talking - for both the unique tale it spins and the controversy it has found itself at the helm of. Beef is a truly surreal show, as surreal as the eerie artwork that features in the title cards. It follows down-on-his-luck tradesman Danny and troubled yet successful businesswoman Amy as they are involved in a road rage incident that changes their lives in unexpected ways. In the first episode, Danny is suicidal and reaches the end of his tether when a white SUV honks at him for nearly reversing into them. Enraged, he follows the car, who continues to provoke him. Danny tracks down the owner (Amy) and, posing as a contractor, urines all over her bathroom. The episode closes with Amy chasing Danny down the street and it appears the rest of the series will simply be the two exacting revenge on each other as a result of them being dissatisfied with their respective lives. It is in a fashion, though not as one might think. Amy begins an affair with Danny’s brother and Danny befriends Amy’s husband. Dragging their families into the petty rivalry, with some crossed wires and miscommunications thrown in for good measure, puts everyone in danger, culminating in an epic and tense shootout in the penultimate episode, which features one of television’s most gruesome deaths. The path it takes outshines the assumed timeline tenfold, with an unpredictable ending too following the bizarre final episode. However, slow pacing in the earlier episodes could see viewers zoning out in scenes of character development. Stick with it though and the latter episodes won’t disappoint. Overall, Beef is unlike anything seen before and frankly downright weird in the most enjoyable way, with the leads’ occasional comedic performance strengthened by the uneasy atmosphere. 7/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 28 March 2023 Despite having been originally commissioned as a miniseries based on the Israeli original, the Showtime legal drama starring Bryan Cranston is back to tie up loose ends. Following the Season 1 finale in which an avenge-seeking Eugene attempts to shoot Carlo but misses and kills Adam instead, we see a grieving and dishevelled Michael in prison. We learn he confessed all following Adam’s death but his confession is buried by attorney Olivia in return for Michael’s assistance in bringing down the Baxter family. A second season was somewhat unnecessary, though it was satisfactory to see what happened next following the previous season’s events. This season ultimately outperformed the first with more compelling viewing, although it may have just seemed that way as we returned to already established characters. The season finale played out the intense courtroom action as Eugene was tried for murder. The standout moment was when Michael helps prove that the explosion at Eugene’s house couldn’t have been a gas leak as they hadn’t had gas for weeks, potentially implicating the Baxters. With Jimmy threatening to reveal Gina’s involvement, Gina manipulates Cormine into shooting him and is imprisoned. This long-awaited downfall of the Baxters arrives as Eugene is released into Witness Protection. Unfortunately, not everyone gets their deserved comeuppance or redemption. Carlo is never found guilty for Kofi’s murder and continues to run the family business with Gina, who also goes unpunished. Furthermore, the malicious ringleader of the Desire gang Big Mo continues to have free reign across the city. Fia, heartbroken at the deceit from both sides, puts baby Rocco up for adoption and leaves, an unrealistic fate given the love and care she had for him. This also means Michael, who has arguably suffered and lost the most, doesn’t get a happy ending with his grandchild. Instead, he returns to prison for his actions, albeit content with his fate. The fact that the series ends with Michael in prison and Carlo free highlights a vast imbalance, perhaps an intentional reflection on the real justice system, but the drama across the season plus the gas leak revelation and Jimmy’s shooting in the finale elevates the season greatly. 7/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 15 March 2023 The psychological thriller moves across the pond for the fourth season set in dreary London. Joe Goldberg begins life anew as Jonathan Moore, a university professor in the English capital after faking his own death. Despite embarking on a quiet life, he is soon roped into the social circle of his rich socialite neighbours as he becomes the target of threatening messages from the “Eat the Rich killer”. Unfortunately, most of the new characters are uncompelling which, matched with the dark setting, gives the season a less appealing tone. Part 1 focuses on him finding out who the killer is and, although intriguing as the killer knows Joe’s real identity, the role reversal in which Joe becomes the victim is somewhat disappointing as it is just not as thrilling. The mid-season finale reveals the killer is Rhys Montrose, the aspiring Mayor of London, in an explosive and exciting episode. The season doesn’t appear due to become anymore interesting as Part 2 is then set up for Joe to bring down Montrose. But then, Episode 7 comes. As Joe kills Rhys, we learn that Joe had never actually met Rhys, he just became obsessed with him when he learnt of his redemption, Joe killed all the victims and Rhys was just a figment of his imagination. Furthermore, Joe didn’t actually let Marienne go but he has had her locked in his infamous perspex cage the whole time with no recollection. This twist is the best in the series and ultimately saves the entire season. The season finale is action packed, particularly with the twist that Marienne survives. The ending appears anticlimactic with Joe and new girlfriend Kate starting a new life in New York having cleared Joe’s name, until the final moments when it is revealed he killed his student Nadia’s boyfriend and framed her for it after she discovered his past. Overall, the season may not be as consistently thrilling as the previous but the twists are the strongest yet, keeping the show strong and unpredictable. 7/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 8 March 2023 The Pogues’ treasure-hunting moves in a whole new direction as we return to OBX and beyond. Season 3 begins where the Season 2 finale left off, with the Pogues stranded on a deserted island: the self-proclaimed Poguelandia. Unfortunately, this is one of few moments we get this season of our favourite gang altogether due to the revelation that Big John is still alive. Where this provided a shocking twist to close the second season, it damaged the content of Season 3. Big John’s return sees John B abandons his friends to go treasure hunting with his newly-returned dad, causes a rift between him and Sarah, driving her into the arms of Topper and sees Big John put the treasure before his son, taking the lead on a project that should really be led by Pope. Furthermore, John B learns his father is not the hero he thought he was and his return devalues the previous exploration done in his memory. However, this means Big John got to see the completion of his life’s work before his death, dying of a gunshot wound. The compelling villains of Rafe and Ward Cameron are back too. Lying low in their new life in Guadalupe, Ward attempts to make amends, starting by donating the Cross of Santo Domingo. Conflict arises between the father and son as Rafe steals and sells the cross from under him and Ward denies his intention to run the family business back home. They reconcile before Ward tags along on the hunt to protect Sarah, eventually sacrificing himself for her safety in an emotionally-charged scene for which Charles Eston deserves great praise for his performance. The danger levels rise this season when a new villain is introduced: Carlos Singh. The Pogues’ rescue from Poguelandia is actually a kidnapping as Kiara is taken hostage and we learn Singh is searching for El Dorado. This all culminates in an epic season finale which takes John B, Sarah and Big John deep into the South American jungle on a perilous quest, leading to them finding the gold city. There are several gunpoint moments too in an episode which is truly cinematic. The season ends with a time jump to 18 months later as the Pogues are officially recognised for their discovery. It may be nice to see the gang finally succeed though this means we never got to see Pope finally retrieve Denmark’s treasure back from the Camerons after they came so close back on the boat. The season closes with a man approaching them to help locate Blackbeard’s treasure, hinting at the plotline for the already commissioned fourth season. 7/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 30 January 2023 The complex mother-daughter relationship takes a darker turn in the second season of the Netflix drama. Following on from the Season 1 finale in which Ginny discovered her mother poisoned Kenny, she and Austin are living with Zion. Consequently, this takes a toll on Ginny’s mental health too as she continues to self-harm and suffers a panic attack. There’s a glimpse of hope as she enters therapy but upon forgiving her mother after learning it was to protect her, her stress turns to guilt as she feels responsible. Ginny is noticeably far more distressed in this season and, along with the deeper exploration into Marcus’ depression and the couple’s subsequent breakup, the tone shift creates a much darker atmosphere, which could go unappreciated due to some difficult to watch scenes. However, the coming-of-age element with the teens continues to provide some much needed comic relief. Despite taking several episodes for MANG to make up, there are many enjoyable scenes, particularly revolving around the Wellington play in which Max and Silver grow close, as do the leads Bracia and Bryon. There are also touching scenes as Max’s father builds her confidence regarding her role as the witch and Max supports a struggling Marcus. The race subplot feels somewhat shoehorned as it is kept minimal and driven by insensitivity rather than outright racism and Ginny’s impulsive rebellion seems an inequivalent response. The show delicately handles its subject matter on mental health, leaving the race element appearing to be an unnecessary additional burden on Ginny in an attempt for the show to earn more brownie points for being woke. Nevertheless, the season steps up in terms of drama; Austin shoots Gil to save Georgia and, in the finale, at her wedding to Paul, Georgia is arrested for the murder of Cynthia’s husband. Ultimately, the season fully delivers on a thrilling and suspenseful continuation of the overarching story. 7/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 12 January 2023 Business and romance continue to outline Emily’s life in Paris as the third season is released on Netflix over the festive period. Season 3 picks up where the previous left off with Emily torn between continuing to work for Madeline or jumping ship to Sylvie’s new company following the French team’s revolt against the acquisition. The dilemma is finally resolved when Emily joins them permanently and the chemistry between the marketing colleagues continues to create an enjoyable to watch environment. Furthermore, Luc continues to provide a hilarious comedy aspect to the series. However, Emily begins imposing on Julien’s pitches, resulting in him considering a job offer. Having learnt in the Season 2 finale that Gabriel and Camille are back together and now living together, Emily commits to her relationship with Alfie, proving her dedication by publicly serenading him on Solstice Night in a truly tear-jerkingly sweet moment. Remaining friends, Emily and Gabrielle continue to hide their true feelings towards one another as the audience awaits to see what inevitably rocks this settled dynamic. Emily discovers Camille is having an affair with a Greek artist and encourages her to tell Gabriel. Where Camille appears remorseful for cheating, this can actually be seen as her realisation and acknowledgement of Emily and Gabrielle being in love and refuses to go through with their wedding for the latter reason. Alfie breaks up with Emily due to this and Emily and Gabrielle confess their feelings. As the duo appear free to pursue each other, a further spanner is thrown in the works as Gabriel announces Camille is pregnant. Mindy’s residency at the club also provides a beautiful scene when she duets with Benoir performing a bilingual version of Shallow, further highlighting Park’s incredible talent. Unfortunately they split up and Mindy begins a relationship with businessman Nicholas, whose nasty side is revealed as Grateau publicly humiliates him in a business strategy. However, there is still hope for the musical couple as Benoit announces their song Mon Soleil has been selected for Eurovision. Furthermore, the dark history between Sylvie and Nicholas’s father could be explored as he is revealed to be Laurent’s final investor. Overall, the show continues to be visually stunning, showcasing Paris’ breathtaking aesthetic, navigates the further meanders of Emily and Gabrielle’s mutual interest and provides several romantic moments in what could be one of fiction’s best universes. 10/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 16 December 2022 The new supernatural series based on The Addams Family’s teenage daughter Wednesday lands on Netflix, even beating the new Harry & Meghan documentary to the number one spot. From the enticing first scene in which Wednesday exacts revenge on her brother’s bullies by attacking them with piranhas, viewers will be reeled in. The series then follows Wednesday as she enrols at a new boarding school for outcasts: Nevermore. Throughout her reluctant time there, she attempts to solve a murder mystery surrounding a monster in the woods. The murder mystery plot is told in an entertaining way as the investigation is intriguing throughout without fully relying on the outcome. However, it can be said it is the characters that make the show so compelling. Ortega earns her high praise for the protagonist as she perfectly portrays the cold and hardened yet strong-willed and brave teen while exhibiting some unexplainable likability that ropes both the male cast and viewers in. She is also at the helm of some of the series’ most awesome scenes including the burning of Crackstone’s statue and her impressive dance routine. The inclusive environment at the academy is composed by several other likeable students, particularly Wednesday’s optimistic roommate Enid and friendly beekeeper Eugene. The student cast allows for some meaningful coming-of-age elements as Wednesday grows to care about her classmates, Enid pursues a relationship with Ajax while dealing with conflict with her mother and Xavier develops feelings for Wednesday despite rejection and accusation. Additionally, Wednesday finally hugging Enid in the finale will melt your heart! The ending elevates the quality of what is already an excellent series. After falsely accusing Xavier and Dr Kinbott, Wednesday is horrified to learn her romantic interest Tyler is the Hyde and Thornhill is the master. It is revealed that Thornhill is actually Lauren Gates, seeking revenge for her fathers death and is using Tyler to murder outcasts. Principle Weems uses her shapeshifting skills to retrieve this confession, though is murdered by Thornhill using nightshade poisoning. This is followed by an epic showdown in which Thornhill resurrects Crackstone, culminating in a deadly battle between the town’s founder and the outcasts which sees Wednesday fulfil the prophecy of her saving the school. Furthermore, in an exciting and satisfying shock, Enid finally wolfs out and, in werewolf form, defeats Tyler. Everything about this series is perfect. The plot. The characters. The casting. A finale that outshines any possible conclusion viewers could have predicted. It is a shame Weems dies but all good shows have one unfortunate loss. As Wednesday hints at more mysteries to uncover and Tyler is shown to still be alive, viewers are left impatient for a second season. 10/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 14 December 2022 The long-awaited feature-length finale of the hit sitcom finally arrives as one of many debuts on the launch day of ITV’s supersized new streaming service ITVX. As we head back to Ancient Rome one last time, we see Marcus, Jason and Grumio sign up for the army during peacetime after they are evicted. However, their plan backfires, the hilarious centrepiece that makes every episode work, as war breaks out and they are sent to the frontline. With Aurelius in tow as well, the special starts off promising. Concern over whether the extended length will benefit or hinder the entertainment value is soon lost as the boys ditch the army following a deadly ambush and are hunted as deserters. Furthermore, as the plot develops, viewers are likely to be only more drawn into the story rather than become disconnected with it. While the comedy is there and like the show had never been away, there aren't quite as many hilarious scenarios and lines as a typical episode. Despite this, the plot is enhanced and deeper in meaning, with Marcus and Grumio’s rocky relationship mended with some honest and kind words followed by Marcus freeing Grumio from slavery. The majority of the episode was filmed in the Welsh countryside and so the Ancient Rome set in Bulgaria is missed as it only features in the opening and ending scenes. Despite this, the finale couldn’t have wrapped up the series any better, solidifying Plebs’ status as one of the best British comedies of all time. 8/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 6 December 2022 Dead to Me wraps up its twisting narrative in the third and final season of Netflix’s tragicomedy. Season 3 picks up where the second season ended, with Ben having crashed into Jen and Judy in a drink-driving accident. The hit-and-run brings the story full circle as each character has now hurt one another in some way. The series' trademark twists and turns are in full swing as well, as Judy is diagnosed with terminal cancer and Jen is pregnant with Ben. The season then follows the investigation into Steve’s death following the discovery of his body as the ladies deal with their new situations. While new cans of worms may have been opened, the season did a pretty good job at closing them too. However, there were a couple of controversial decisions made in bringing closure to the narrative. In the penultimate episode, Agent Moranis is found dead as the camera switches between the multiple suspects. This can be justified in that the cause of death is less important than the effect of death, as Jen and Judy can be exonerated for Steve’s murder as the Greek Mafia are blamed. Furthermore, on their holiday to Mexico, Judy tells Jen she isn’t returning home. While it was wise to take the more realistic approach of Judy dying, we see Jen and family mourn the death of Judy without confirming she has died yet, making the scenes less authentic and also suggesting Judy was left to die alone rather than with support. The finale closes with the bittersweet ending of Ben playing with the boys in the pool as Jen and baby lay poolside. Ben unknowingly playing in the pool that his brother was murdered in is a sign that this final secret can’t be left untold. Jen says “Ben, I have to tell you something” before the screen cuts to black. Although audiences are left to interpret the aftermath of this themselves, this reveal should have taken place earlier in order to conclude the series with Ben’s confirmed forgiveness, which could have been justified by Steve’s cruelty and Ben’s involvement in the hit-and-run. Nevertheless, this is a gripping series with a decent conclusion. 8/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 5 December 2022 Will Ferrell and Ryan Reynolds star in Apple TV’s comedy musical based upon A Christmas Carol. In the present day, Jacob Marley runs a company redeeming souls with the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Yet-to-Come. Present (Ferrell) convinces Marley to choose Clint Briggs (Reynolds), a cruel and heartless businessman, as their next soul to redeem as Present believes he could make a positive change to mankind. Marley initially rejects the proposal as he is an “unredeemable” and they have only ever redeemed one of them before, though is eventually convinced. The story sets off on what appears to be a pretty predictable path, with Present guiding Briggs through the process, providing a pleasant comedy duo. However, the plot actually takes a more layered approach as it is revealed Present is Ebeneezer Scrooge, the only unredeemable to have been redeemed, and is worried he can never be fully reformed. Briggs convinces Present to relapse with his rudeness, resulting in a particularly fun musical number in Victorian England. Despite this, it is seeing Present struggle with his morality that helps Briggs reform himself, with the pair growing fond of and supporting each other rather than a one-way redemption. Furthermore, Present retires to Earth to start a family like he had been dreaming of but not daring to pursue and Briggs, rather than living a new reformed life on Earth too, dies in a sacrifice to Present, and becomes the new Ghost of Christmas Present. With the soundtrack composed by The Greatest Showman’s songwriting duo, the songs are strong and so are as enjoyable as can be to someone who doesn’t mind this form of interruption. Spirited thrives off being distinguishable enough from the Dickens story to be a different tale in its own right, with praise deserved for its diversion from predictability and the onscreen chemistry between the two leads. 7/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 28 November 2022 The survival reality TV series returned to the Australian jungle this November after a covid-caused 2 years in a freezing Welsh castle and the sun down under was a welcome sight. Ant & Dec were back at the helm as the new celebs arrived. There were some big names this year including pop diva Boy George, radio veteran Chris Moyles and royal-related rugby legend Mike Tindall. However, it is safe to say one name dominated the camp this year: Matt Hancock. The former Health Secretary faced a backlash for entering while being a sitting MP and was met with criticism in and out of camp for his controversial handling of the coronavirus pandemic and having defied government guidelines. In addition to public outcry, he received a grilling from several campmates, particularly George, Chris, Charlene and Sue, though bullying is a more accurate term. George’s imprisonment for assault and Moyle’s comments about taking then child star Charlotte Church’s virginity had seemed to have been forgiven though! Matt was subsequently voted to do the trials for 6 consecutive days but, despite the negative reaction, performed incredibly, earning stars for meals and appeared unfazed at the challenges. Furthermore, he threw him into many other fun activities such as dancing and karaoke, showing his humble and caring human side he’d wanted to display, as well as demonstrating remorse and admitting to seeking forgiveness. The politician subsequently outlasted his challengers, finishing in third place. England women’s footballer Jill Scott went on to be crowned Queen of the Jungle with Hollyoaks hunk Owen Warner in second. Overall, this year was a strong one. Viewers definitely got their fix of conflict, there were the usual interesting chats down by the creek and we can’t forget Dec’s hilarious reaction to Moyles losing the stars in his poor trial performance. 9/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 25 November 2022 Peacock’s high school murder mystery returns, this time with more drama, romance and plot twists. The new season follows the group as they attempt to uncover the identity of Simon Says, their blackmailer who has evidence they murdered Jake after discovering he was Simon’s killer. Through the use of suspense and variety of characters, the series manages to keep the investigation continuously enthralling. Furthermore, this season delves deeper into the coming-of-age element. Polar opposites Bronwyn and Nate grow closer, Cooper is still in love with Kris following their split last season, Janae battles with her gender identity and Addy struggles with her guilt and life purpose, all forming emotional scenes which will likely see viewers sympathising with the characters and rooting for the couples. The Christmas episode in which they spend a last night of freedom is particularly touching and deserves praise for its bittersweet effect. Season 2 delivers on ending as it is revealed that Nate’s tutor Fiona is Simon Says, having fallen in love with Jake in rehab over the summer, and Jake murdered Simon for exposing Fiona’s secret, nicely providing additional meaning to the first season. The gang then attempt to frame Fiona for Jake’s murder, though the twists keep coming as Maeve appears to be on Fiona’s side before it is revealed it was a trick to set her up. We then learn that Fiona knew the real reason Jake was in rehab, an event still unbeknownst to the audience, before Fiona chokes in her prison cell. The finale then closes on graduation set months later, with Bronwyn’s necklace found at a blood-covered crime scene at the school, setting up a third season perfectly. 9/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 21 October 2022 Horror, thriller and coming-of-age teen drama all come together in the latest chilling series from The Haunting of Hill House creator Mike Flanagan. The series sees a group of terminally ill teens living in a hospice tell each other stories at midnight while having a pact that the first to die should send them a message beyond the grave. This intriguing premise delivers as both the main storyline and the stories told within it eerily drawn you in. In contrast to previous series, a coming-of-age element is largely present as the group bond over their shared mortality and relationships form among the youngsters. The stories they tell all somehow partly relate to their troubled selves, with particular praise deserved for the heart-wrenching hitchhiking story. However, horror remains at the forefront whether it’s the record-breaking jumpscares in the premiere, the elderly ghosts, the time-jumping or the discovery of the underground chamber that once inhabited a cult. The penultimate episode is arguably the best as protagonist Ilonka discovers the friendly neighbour is actually Julia Jane, the former resident who was cured in the 60s, who attempts to perform a human-sacrifice ritual. The final episode isn’t as dramatic, though explains Julia was misdiagnosed rather than cured but attributed her fortune to the Gods instead of luck and she was performing black magic as she’d fallen ill again. It also wraps up all storylines, with Anya sending a message in the form of fixing her statue, before the final reveal that the elderly ghosts were the original owners of the building and Stanton has a cult tattoo. 7/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 10 October 2022 Mila Kunis stars in Netflix’s film adaptation of the 2015 novel. The movie is branded as a mystery thriller though really appears more as a drama as there is minimal action. Nevertheless, audiences will be left intrigued due to the time-jumping narrative. The film sees Ani, an engaged writer who has created a perfect New York life for herself though harbours haunting memories of a childhood event. When a documentary crew approaches her, we learn she was present at a school shooting. The film cleverly reveals more about her history in flashbacks spaced between her adult life in the present. We eventually discover she was gang raped and her friend committed the shooting against the rapists after she didn’t report them. Kunis may be the star but it is Chiara Aurelia who deserves praise for her distressing performance as young Ani, demonstrating trauma amid the difficult scenes. As Ani secretly records a confession of the sole surviving rapist, the article she publishes on her story leaves several women feeling empowered and is particularly relevant in the MeToo movement. Despite being set in 2015 as people predicted the first female president, it is still a prevalent issue in society and, although her split with her fiancé is bittersweet, it shapes the positive ending of Ani finally taking control of her life in a more confident manner. In conclusion, the film may not be the most entertaining, but the flashbacks slowly reel you in, feature a rising star within them, and masterfully combat victim blaming in an unconventional situation. 6/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 28 September 2022 Lead stars Camila Mendes and Maya Hawke both deserve praise for their roles in Netflix’s latest hit movie Do Revenge. The high-school film sees popular girl Drea team up with social outcast Eleanor to exact revenge on each other's enemy: Drea’s boyfriend for leaking an intimate video and Eleanor’s former crush Carissa for spreading a rumour. At first, the storyline appears to follow the simple yet intriguing plot with no obstacles. However, just as things are going to plan, we are soon met with the first twist that Drea spread the rumour and Eleanor is actually exacting revenge on her. It is at this point the film shows its capability of layered storytelling. Mendez’s performance as a popular girl who loses all credibility and begins to share her vulnerability is well received for highlighting a personality profile that is ever growing in a world of social pressure on teens. Hawke was already a Netflix star for her role in Stranger Things, though her performance is stellar as an outcast-turned-sociopath and is a credit for breaking the stereotype of weak and helpless introverts. Furthermore, the unforeseen development of the duo’s forgiveness towards each other proves there is no telling of how the story will end and makes the ending of exposing Max all the more sweet. Overall, the social commentary of the movie outperforms the entertainment value, though this is not a negative point. To anyone ready to give up at the midway lull: don’t. It gets a whole lot better. 7/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 26 September 2022 Vinnie and the gang are back, getting up to no good once again in the fourth season of Sky’s hit comedy. The series opens with Vinnie making a cross-country journey to Wales to find Erin and Tyler after their escape in the Season 3 finale. Following the reunion, this season focuses primarily on Vinnie’s forced involvement with the criminal MacDonagh brothers after getting previous villain McCann arrested last season. While the storylines remain the same, the comedy is lacking this time and therefore highlights the unnecessarily excessive strong language, leaving Tommo’s quick wit to provide the main source of comic relief. Where the series had always demonstrated the ability to carefully blend hilarious situations with the emotional aspects of Vinnie’s bipolar, these scenes feel more forced and abruptly inserted this season, leaving viewers feeling detached from rather than sympathetic towards the protagonist. Despite these shortcomings, the season matches its predecessors in terms of drama and suspense as the final scenes are paired efficiently with a soundtrack that leaves viewers on the edge of their seats with a feeling of impending doom, as the characters each nervously return home before Dylan is kidnapped. 6/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 15 May 2022 A Light for Attracting Attention is the result of Radiohead’s Thom Yorke and Jonny Greenwood’s work during lockdown with drummer Tom Skinner. The album opens with The Same, a hauntingly eerie track that contains ambient sounds reminiscent of Kid A while maintaining their own sound of OK Computer, whereas tracks such as The Opposite and The Smoke are built around a repetitive bass line similar to How to Disappear Completely. Unfortunately, what follows is essentially a regurgitation of these over again with slightly altered music and the songs fall foul of blending and risk being indistinguishable from each other. Despite this, single Pana-vision contains piano and falsetto that encapsulates an atmospheric sound, making it a very suitable soundtrack for the Peaky Blinders finale. Furthermore, We Don’t Know What Tomorrow Brings introduces some much-needed energy to an otherwise boring collection of songs. In conclusion, the album holds on to the infamous Radiohead sound and demonstrates the member’s talents yet lacks substance and memorability. Ultimately, the project doesn’t conjure up enough uniqueness and differentiation from the main band to constitute a separate project. 3/10

Published by Mason Oldridge, 22 May 2025 When in Rome, do as the Romans do! ITV may not have the best roster of comedy series when compared to its contemporaries of BBC and Channel 4 but it had a sure fire hit on its hands with the ITV2 sitcom Plebs. Running from 2013 to its bumper finale in 2022 across five hilarious seasons, Plebs deserves the crown (and toga) for being ITV’s greatest comedy. Set in Ancient Rome, it follows the weedy Marcus, his ladies man roommate Stylax and his lazy slave Grumio as they struggle to live as lowly citizens in the big city. Marcus and Stylax work for the intimidating Flavia in a scriptorium of a grain factory, along with waterboy Aurelius, who insists on being called waterman and has an unfortunate habit of speaking crudely just as their boss enters the room. The boys live in a block of apartments run by the greedy and lawless Landlord, who isn’t shy to pull a sly con on an unsuspecting Grumio. He is joined by the burly bodyguard Davus from the second season and later his ruthless mother Landlady. Marcus is the opposite of his playboy roommate and proves to be unlucky in love, therefore entertaining different love interests throughout the series. In the first two seasons, he falls for aspiring actress Cynthia, his neighbour from Briton, though his efforts are regularly thwarted by her slave Metella. Following their deportation, which he inadvertently plays a part in, he turns his efforts to Delphine, an activist from Gaul, which ultimately ends abruptly when he abandons her to seek refuge from a predicted earthquake. In the final two seasons, he embarks on a not-so-clear relationship with business neighbour Gloria, though this is also not without obstacles. The fourth season launches a major plot change as Stylax is killed off, crushed to death in a construction accident at the hands of clumsy worker Jason, who replaces him. The new trio, joined by Aurelius, then renovate an underground toilet block into a wine bar, which doesn’t quite become the swanky new watering hole they were hoping for. The recipe for success in a sitcom is the situations the characters find themselves in. After all, it is a situation comedy. Marcus doesn’t make the best first impression on Cynthia as he invites her to an orgy, which is more Stylax’s scene. He then fixes for Cynthia’s new gladiator boyfriend Cassius (Danny Dyer) to face a brutal opponent, which results in his decapitation. Grumio receives an erotic vase for his birthday, featuring someone with a resemblance to Cynthia from a certain angle, which Landlord proceeds to borrow. Marcus then pretends to like a stray cat that Cynthia is fond of, though the moggie soon dies. To make matters worse, Grumio, having been tricked into buying a lottery ticket with 50/50 odds of winning (you win or you don’t), loses it and believes it to be inside the dead animal. Stylax is excited by sexy new Thracian immigrants, until he learns his new love interest is married. Marcus and Stylax are forced into working during Flavia’s Saturnalia party, so they move the clock forward to leave early. In the second season, Stylax takes up charioteering, getting taught by an emotionally unstable divorcee (Shaun Williamson aka Barry from EastEnders). Aurelius is getting married and asks Marcus to be his best man, resulting in a disastrous stag do where the water carrier has second thoughts about his bride with brittle bones. Elsewhere, Grumio decides to adopt an abandoned baby he finds, which Stylax uses to date a wet nurse, until an incident involving her having an involuntary release. Stylax is mentored by a nobleman (James Fleet), whose interest in him he misinterprets. Marcus learns that the grass isn’t always greener when he purchases a psychotic new slave (Tim Key). Marcus is hired to manage the wig of a politician (Simon Callow). When Cynthia and Metella face deportation, Marcus enlists the help of hotshot lawyer Fabianus, but between Marcus having teased him at school and Grumio breaking the phallus off his stone statue, the plan backfires. The third season kicks off with the boys narrowly escaping death as they find themselves in an arena with a lion as the Games come to town. Thankfully, his new girlfriend Delphine is protesting the games… for cruelty to animals. Grumio’s birth father returns and apologises for abandoning him on a hill as a baby and Grumio intends on joining his soup business. Stylax sleeps with a vestal virgin (Michelle Keegan), who lets the flame go out. A theatre director (Miriam Margoyles) hires Grumio to play Cupid in a play. When a self-defence instructor belittles Marcus in front of Delphine, he exacts revenge that doesn’t end well. Stylax invents a new game jugball, which entails throwing a paper ball in Aurelius’ water jug. Grumio has to work for another master, where he teaches the other slaves to be lazy. When a weatherist moves in next door and predicts a minor tremor, Marcus uses it to attempt to spice things up with Delphine, though when the forecast turns more dangerous, he flees to evacuation without her. In the fourth season, the boys set up their new business The Crown and Toga, but aren’t off to a great start when they receive a negative review from a critic, leading to them faking an extremely positive one. Jason challenges Aurelius in a marathon, leading to a rather disgusting forfeit. When Grumio is mistaken for having learning disabilities, Marcus uses this to gain money from a charity. Marcus dates a stand-up comedian (Aisling Bea) but doesn’t like when she uses intimate details as material for her sets. When Grumio swallows a customer’s engagement ring, they have to wait for him to pass it. When the boys visit a bathhouse, they realise they can keep using their free trial for as long as they don’t leave. Marcus convinces a Jewish accountant to date him… and do the bar’s accounting. The boys try to steal the recipe for beer when a Germanian pub opens nearby. The fifth season starts with the boys on a trip, but when they collide with a pig (and Jason violently puts it out of its misery) they stay over at a farm with a nice family… who owned said pig. Back in the city, Marcus tutors Gloria’s son… and graphically threatens him. Meanwhile, Grumio finds himself on an under-14s boxing team after the coach (John Thomson) mistakes him for a schoolboy. Elsewhere, the boys become embroiled in a poison plot at a banquet, where Jason is attracted to one of the aristocrats (Amanda Holden). Grumio invents a hat, while Jason and Aurelius become male escorts. The boys try to attract sports fans to the bar but their lack of allegiance to one team sees their plan backfire as usual. They then find themselves in trouble with the police over the death of an archeological professor (Tony Robinson). When they get evicted, Marcus plays his parents for help whereas Jason becomes an estate agent… and stays in the vacant properties. Then, Marcus sees Jason’s brother’s wedding as a business opportunity but learns he may not go through with the marriage. Between the variety of brilliant characters, the hilarious situations of making immoral decisions for personal gain, plans backfiring or just downright misfortune and an array of special guest appearances, Plebs solidifies itself as ITV’s greatest comedy and indeed one of the best British comedies overall.

Published by Mason Oldridge, 1 May 2025 Black Mirror is a groundbreaking and innovative anthology series that deals with an underlying theme of technology and serves as somewhat of a psychological thriller, manipulating the minds of both characters and viewers alike. Becoming ever more relevant, we take a look back at the show that unlocks increasingly possible nightmares! S1E1: The National Anthem A troubled artist kidnaps a royal princess and blackmails the prime minister to have sex with a pig on live television. The princess is released prior to the heinous act, which therefore could’ve been prevented, yet no-one notices as the billion plus audience are eagerly watching, a commentary on how everyone is glued to their phones! S1E2: Fifteen Million Merits In an alternate reality, people ride stationary bikes for the currency of merits. The way Bing hypocritically sells out similar to Abi outlines how as a society we favour our own betterment at selfish costs, a message further conveyed via the chilling final scene of the natural world outside. S1E3: The Entire History of You In a future where people can replay their memories stored on a grain device behind their ear, Toby becomes suspicious of his wife Ffion when she interacts with her friend Jonas at a dinner party. The episode serves to show the negative effects of jealousy as well as uncovering some unpleasant truths. S2E1: Be Right Back When Martha’s boyfriend Ash dies in a road accident, she begins interacting with an AI android version of him. The episode highlights how AI may appear to be helpful but can actually have an adverse effect, in this case hindering the grief process. S2E2: White Bear A woman wakes up with no memory and is recorded by multiple people. The plot twist in which it is revealed the whole event is a staged performance and she is a child murderer receiving punishment makes the episode one of the more shocking instalments. S2E3: The Waldo Moment Jamie portrays an animated bear called Waldo on a satirical show, but his life changes when the character becomes a political candidate. This can be viewed as an exaggerated demonstration on how entertaining figures can become popular within the political landscape. Special: White Christmas Two men discuss their past in a remote cabin on Christmas Day. Their respective stories are compelling, Joe’s growing confusion is intriguing and the reveal and ending is shocking. S3E1: Nosedive In a world where people have an overall rating in life based on social interactions, Lacie is desperate to increase her score. This system draws parallels with real-life popularity on social media and delivers a message on the pressure to maintain likeability as Lacie, despite being imprisoned, is relieved to no longer care. S3E2: Playtest Cooper takes part in an experimental AR horror game which targets his own fears. As the episode progresses, it becomes unclear what is real-life and what is simulated and the reveal that Cooper died from interference in 0.04 seconds after ignoring the rule to turn his phone off elevates the episode as one of the best. S3E3: Shut Up and Dance When a hacker records Kenny masturbating via his webcam, he is blackmailed into a series of bizarre and increasingly sinister tasks. The closing scene, in which the police descend on a bloody Kenny as his mum calls him and we learn he went to such extreme lengths as he was viewing child pornography, all set to Radiohead’s Exit Music, is one of the most chilling and disturbing pieces of television ever. S3E4: San Junipero San Junipero is a simulated reality beach resort town that the elderly and deceased can inhabit appearing as their younger selves and follows the relationship of Yorkie and Kelly. The episode deserves the praise it received for its 80s aesthetic and positive ending. S3E5: Men Against Fire Soldiers hunt ‘roaches’, who are revealed to be an ethnic group whose appearances are distorted using an AR implant to help the soldiers kill without mercy. Stripe’s choice between imprisonment and memory wipe upon learning the truth resembles the red pill and blue pill decision from The Matrix and sees him choose ignorant bliss. S3E6: Hated in the Nation A tech company has created robotic bees to prevent extinction, but the bees are hacked to kill nominated victims on social media. The police investigation and race to stop future murders is exciting, culminating in the mass murder of every nominator, and the ending in which the detective tracks down the perpetrator is a nice twist. S4E1: USS Callister Robert Daly is the overlooked architect of an online video game, but at home, he has created a private version where he enslaves digital clones of his co-workers on a spaceship of which he is the captain. The Star Trek-themed sci-fi set piece is impressive and the crew’s fight to free themselves makes for a truly thrilling action adventure. S4E2: Arkangel Overprotective parent Marie uses an excessive tracking system on her daughter Sara. The episode serves to prove the negative effects of helicopter parenting, something exaggerated in the violent ending which is partly caused by the system itself. S4E3: Crocodile Fifteen years after covering up a hit-and-run, Mia commits a series of linked murders to cover her tracks. Filmed in Iceland, the Nordic noir influence adds to the tone and the bizarre method using the guinea pig is genius. S4E4: Hang the DJ Frank and Amy are paired by a dating device that matches people for different amounts of time and experience an instant connection, though fail to connect with subsequent matches. Similarities can be made to real-life dating apps and the episode questions their effectiveness as the couple rebel against the system as if showing love cannot be calculated by an algorithm but is revealed to be one of many simulations to determine real world compatibility. S4E5: Metalhead Maxine attempts to survive while being hunted by robotic dogs in a post-apocalyptic wasteland. The episode is filmed in black and white and features minimal dialogue; no background is provided and the reveal of teddy bears in the box at the end is unexplained. S4E6: Black Museum Nish visits the remote Black Museum where its owner Rolo guides her through its disturbing exhibits. The stories of each artefact are interesting, there is growing intrigue over Rolo’s declining health and the plot twist of Nish’s identity and actions is thrilling. S5E1: Striking Vipers Danny and Karl play a VR video game, but things become complicated when their avatars have sex in the game, putting a strain on Danny’s marriage. The episode is a truly unique vehicle for questioning one’s sexuality. S5E2: Smithereens Chris kidnaps an intern from a social media company. The reason he does this outlines the addictiveness of social media, while the standoff makes for tense viewing throughout. S5E3: Rachel, Jack and Ashley Too Rachel is gifted Ashley Too, an AI robot based on her favourite pop singer Ashley O, to the annoyance of her older sister Jack, but the trio have to work together to save the real artist. The episode provides social commentary on AI, the increase of holographic performances of deceased musicians and controlling management in the music industry. Rarely does a show create such a chilling atmosphere and leave such a horrifying impact. When a device is switched off, its screen is just a black mirror.

Published by Mason Oldridge, 26 February 2025 When I tried explaining the concept of the popular Channel 4 reality series Gogglebox to my American friend, it’s safe to say she didn’t understand how this show is such a success. After all, people watching people watching TV does sound pretty boring. So how does this simple yet effective formula keep viewers kicking back on their sofas and tuning in every Friday night? Well I think we can definitely attribute the cast to the show’s success this time. Narrated by Craig Cash in his unique register, taking over from his late Royal Family co-star Caroline Aherne following her passing, different families across the UK offer their opinionated, emotional and humorous takes on the past week’s TV choices as they invite us into their living rooms. Many previous cast members have gone on to further their reality careers, there’s been a couple serve as politicians and it even launched the career of television personality Scarlett Moffatt! As the show returns for its 25th series, let’s take a look at some of the best cast members, past and present! The Siddiqui family Sid Siddiqui and his sons Baasit and Umar (plus occasionally third son Raza) reside in Derby and are the only original cast members to still appear. They aren’t above finding humour in Asian representation on TV and their quick-witted remarks make them one of the funniest families on the show. Jenny and Lee Best friends Jenny and Lee watch TV from Lee’s static caravan in Hull. Lee is known for pranking Jenny and giving her the puzzled raised-eyebrow side-eye combo when she comes out with something bizarre or becomes irrationally tearful, yet their long-tenured friendship is clear to see. A highlight has to be the incident when Lee accidentally ate Jenny’s face mask, believing it to be some sort of dip. The Malone family In Manchester, truck driver Tom and his wife Julie are joined by their adult son Shaun and their array of rottweilers. The father of the family isn’t shy to a sweary rant and often expresses dismay at his happy-go-lucky son’s comments. They were previously joined by eldest son Tom Jr., who left to pursue an online career. Giles and Mary Marmite couple Giles and Mary live in their thatched roof cottage in Wiltshire and do their viewing from their very floral living room. Etiquette expert Mary is often frustrated at her husband’s various eccentricities, though Giles seems to enjoy being his wife’s personal wind-up merchant. Ellie and Izzi In Leeds, sisters Ellie and Izzi love to talk about food and recall stories of their Auntie Margaret, as well as discussing what they’re watching on the box too, and no topic is too personal for the sisters to share with a national audience. Dave and Shirley Married couple Dave and Shirley discuss the week’s offerings from their home in Caerphilly, where the Welshman is left in hysterics at some of his wife’s hilarious misunderstandings and no-nonsense comments. Alison, George and Helena Alison, her rarely-speaking husband George and her daughter Helena share their thoughts from Alison and George’s colourful living room in Manchester. Alison is a keen knitter, while Helena is prone to a quirky dress sense herself. The trio are sometimes joined by Helena’s young son Erwin. Pete and Sophie Pete and his little-yet-taller-than-him sister Sophie are in Blackpool and are related to the legendary comedy duo the Chuckle Brothers. Along with Sophie’s recognisable laugh and their excessively sized teapots, the siblings have become known for their political scathings and silly humour. Abbie and Georgia Best friends Abbie and Georgia broadcast from the North East and are often joined by Georgia’s baby and her pet staffie Vinnie. The girls are regularly confused at both the content they watch and the discussions they have outside of their viewing. Simon and Jane In North London, siblings Simon and Jane watch TV together. Simon doesn’t shy away from joking about his dwarfism and has occasionally been subjected to uncomfortableness during the racier scenes whilst sharing the room with his sister. Roisin and Joe Flying the flag for Scotland is Roisin and her boyfriend Joe in Glasgow. Roisin can usually be seen with her feet up across her boyfriend’s lap while Joe makes some witty remarks. Stephen and Daniel Hairdressing husbands Stephen and Daniel dissected the week’s TV from their home in Brighton. Stephen would take centre stage with his impressions of the various faces that crossed the small screen, before the couple left the show in 2023. Stephen was a cast member since the show’s inception, having previously been joined by his late mother and, before that, his former partner Chris. Mary and Marina Good friends Mary and Marina shared residency at the St Monica Trust Retirement Village in Bristol. Mary loved to sing and was often met with praise from Marina as this sweet natured friendship warmed hearts across the nation. Kicking around the age of 90, this didn’t stop the elderly pair from making crude comments from time to time and having a keen eye for some of the men on their screen. A highlight of these two was when they were thoroughly entertained by Christmas film Home Alone as the classic movie transcended their age to make them laugh still. Mary passed away in 2021 at the age of 92. Leon and June Husband and wife duo Leon and June presented their opinions from their side-by-side armchairs in their Liverpool home. Leon may have been sharp-tongued at times but the love of the retired teachers ultimately shone through. They passed away in 2017 and 2020 respectively. Steph and Dom Known as ‘the posh couple from Gogglebox’, married couple Steph and Dom were rarely seen without a drink in hand, with their alcohol cabinet on display behind them. Residing in Kent, the B&B owners were fan favourites on the show until their departure in 2016. With an extensive cast that nicely reflects families up and down the country, Gogglebox has earned its longevity on the Channel 4 Friday night lineup and in British culture as a whole. After all, people watching people watching TV has never been more entertaining!