Aranyélet

An intriguing Hungarian look into the life of a less-than-law-abiding family. In my view, it turned out great. The first season delivered the best plot, the second season had the best opening credits, and the third, while the weakest, still held up well. However, the Hungarians fell into the same trap as the Romanians in Umbre (TV series) (2014). With each subsequent season, they tried to introduce something extra, which wasn't the best idea, making the show gradually lose its original credibility. / Lesson learned: Crime is wrong, but when you get to pack euros into quarter-ton bundles, it makes you think... (2022.12.28)

I'm not surprised that the first season turned out great. I anticipated high quality due to my previous encounters with Hungarian film and television. Hungarians have a sense of humor that suits me and a flair for drama, both of which were present in this show. The first season captivated me not only due to its criminal plot but also through its meticulous treatment of individual characters and the excellent portrayal of the impact of various circumstances on the main "hero's" family. I have become an instant fan, and I eagerly look forward to the continuation. / Lesson learned: With increasing wealth, demands grow, but it usually does not work the other way around. (2022.12.14)

The first episode of the Hungarian series earned my usual, standard opening rating – a score I reserve for first episodes that don't blow me away with exceptional quality but also don't disappoint by glaring creator incompetence. It felt like a typical series kickoff to me, introducing the main characters (or should I say "heroes"), and outlining the story, but lacking that extra something to nudge my rating higher. The family seems intriguing, with the daughter standing out like a white crow among the other members. I'm definitely interested in seeing how things unfold. / Lesson learned: Nothing is for free. (2022.12.09)

It's a decent show. I had a good time and wasn't left bored. However, I wouldn't mind a more lively plot that aligns better with the wonderfully portrayed personalities of the characters. The second episode continued in a similar vein as the previous one, and while I did enjoy it, there was still a missing element, something special that could push the series into a higher above-average tier for me. Here's hoping it comes along eventually. / Lesson learned: Cause and effect. It's super annoying but undeniably true. (2022.12.09)

The third episode finally brought something that had been missing from the series so far. Attila's endeavor to embark on an honest way of life strongly reminded me of the fight against windmills, and his wife made me think of Pavel Zeman in Shut Up and Shoot Me (2005). The plot took on a significantly livelier and more exciting tone in this episode, allowing each family member ample space, which they made the most of. This is the best episode yet, and I'm increasing my rating. / Lesson learned: Don't pee in the pool. Not even in someone else's. (2022.12.09)

This family has been dysfunctional from the outset, but the screenwriter really lets them have it as the story evolves. The fourth episode did a number on all four family members, and once again, I can't complain about the story's pace. The creators are incredibly adept at portraying individual character psychologies. The customs office scene was hilarious and made me think of an old joke: On his European tour, David Copperfield encounters a customs officer who asks, "Aren't you the famous magician who made the skyscraper disappear?" Copperfield replies, "Yes, that's me. Do you want my autograph?" "No, not that. I just want to show you something. See those three trucks over there?" "Yes, I see them." "Well, they are transporting cigarettes." Three stamps later, he adds, "And now it's peas." / Lesson learned: Don't get too excited; disappointment will come anyway. 4*+ (2022.12.11)

The plot in this episode didn't quite match the excitement of the previous one, but that doesn't mean it fell flat. On the contrary, I found the fifth episode quite interesting. Granted, illegal business wasn't in the spotlight this time, but I was intrigued by the tour of the Budapest drunk tank... sorry, detox center. Who would've guessed that a missed vacation in the Alps could have such a profound impact on my life? Well, I have to give it to the Hungarians; they've won me over, and I wonder if they will keep me hooked. So far, they're on the right track. / Lesson learned: If truth doesn't take you all the way, you can still crawl to get there. (2022.12.11)

What a great episode; it was right up my alley. The Hungarians went all in and earned five stars from me for their effort. Against my expectations, they didn't rely on flashy action or frantic pace but instead delved into the psychological aspects. It was intriguing; the sixth episode dealt with bullet-ridden heads and slit throats, yet the most captivating part for me was the clash between children and parents. It was raw and executed incredibly well. Without a doubt, it stands as the best episode of the first season so far. / Lesson learned: Before diving into family life, carefully weigh those pros and cons. (2022.12.11)

While some events in this episode might have seemed far-fetched, I found the plot quite believable. Particularly, the conclusion of the seventh episode confirmed a rule I had figured out years ago: when a group of people with tendencies towards idiocy gathers at a certain moment in a certain place, someone will end up paying for it. The Hungarian creators crafted an interesting plot, well-drawn characters, and a decent atmosphere. The only reason why I'm not giving it five stars is because the previous episode felt more intense. / Lesson learned: Don't overestimate your abilities; you can't surround a larger group alone. 4*+. (2022.12.14)

I didn't think the Hungarians would disappoint me at the very end, and they certainly did not. Quite the opposite, the plot of the eighth and final episode of the first season earned a five-star rating from me. I found it intriguing to witness how far an unlawful way of life could take a second-rate fraudster and how devastating its influence could be on his family. This was precisely why I enjoyed the episode so much. While I've watched many crime series, not all of them place such emphasis on family dynamics. The final combination of a millionaire's villa and expired food was nothing short of priceless :-) / Lesson learned:  The Prodigy - Firestarter (music video) (1996). (2022.12.14)

Throughout this series, I've mentioned that I liked the first season better. Even though the individual characters and family relationships were portrayed better in the first one, there were great episodes in the second one as well. This is not a breezy series for long, lazy afternoons; it forces you to think. Even though the Mézga family had problems, they lived a charming life compared to the dysfunctional Miklósi family, which is a paradox, but all the better. / Lesson learned: Life keeps bringing new challenges. (2022.12.18)

Recently, I caught up with the Romanian series Umbre (series) (2014), and the sensation I got from the contrast between its first and second seasons mirrored my experience watching the opening episode of the second season of this series. It just didn't align with my expectations. The shift away from luxury was entertaining, and the paradoxical revelation of the family's biggest criminal provided an extra layer of amusement. However, unlike the previous season, the plot didn't strike me as entirely believable, which was a shame. For my taste, it would suffice if the creators stuck with what worked last time; attempts to outdo their success often miss the mark. (2022.12.15)

Let me start by saying something I forgot to mention in the previous review; the second season has fantastic opening credits. Personally, I'm a fan. The second episode wasn't as packed as the last one, but I found it even more enjoyable. The moment when Mirina's cellmates and family members' crimes were listed was a highlight, providing great amusement, and Janka, as always, didn't disappoint. However, I'd be delighted if the creators focused more on family relationships in the upcoming episodes. They did it so well in the first season, and it's something I'd definitely appreciate. / Lesson learned: Don't shun bedbugs and roaches; protein is protein. 4*- (2022.12.15)

My decision on the rating was pretty straightforward in this case; I enjoyed it a bit more than the last time, so I gave it a slightly better rating as well. What blew me away was when I saw Attila watching an episode from the first season of Umbre (TV series) (2014) on TV. It's clear now where the Hungarians drew their inspiration, and I appreciate that they openly acknowledged it. The plot again held my interest, the creators nailed the atmosphere, and the episode's conclusion left me eagerly anticipating what's next. I'm genuinely curious to see how they'll navigate through the challenges ahead. / Lesson learned: When rats are abandoning the ship, there's likely a leak below deck. (2022.12.15)

I got the answer to what kept me intrigued after the last episode, and I'm pleased to say it didn't disappoint. Episode four reinforced my belief that while education is crucial, hands-on practical skills shouldn't be neglected. I've always tried to delegate manual work whenever possible, but I had to roll up my sleeves when push came to shove. Thankfully, the creators didn't go overboard with any exaggerated antics. The plot worked for me, the atmosphere was on point, and although I still think the first season was better, I was satisfied. / Lesson learned: According to Occupational Health and Safety recommendations and common sense, you should wear gloves for hard manual work. (2022.12.17)

The creators opted for a more action-packed vibe in this episode, and I'm a bit torn on whether it was the right move. Now, don't get me wrong, I've got nothing but praise for how they handled the shootout. It was top-notch. But the way some key characters behaved, casually running through a hail of bullets, and the painfully slow response from the police forces kind of knocked the believability down a few notches. Despite those reservations, it was still a decent episode. I got some insights into Janka's past, shedding light on her motivations. It didn't exactly make her more likable, but it cleared up a few things. / Lesson learned: Being a big shot in the world of organized crime can be stressful. (2022.12.17)

Today's dose of the series was far from disappointing. The Hungarian creators took a breather from the wild action in the sixth episode and dived into the usual mix of intrigues, manipulations, cunningness, and shady authorities. I'm into it. Sure, the script in the second season got beefed up to outdo the first, but sometimes more isn't exactly better. Even though I liked the first season better, it doesn't stop me from still enjoying the series despite its hiccups. (2022.12.17)

What a weirdly written episode. The seventh episode was noticeably weaker compared to the previous ones. However... The cunning Hungarians saved the best for last, giving the episode a completely different dimension in the finale. So, yes, I couldn't give it five stars because I wasn't drawn into the story in the usual way, but I also wouldn't go below four stars because of the ending. The creators clearly showed that even with the approaching end of the second season, they have no shortage of ideas, and I am already looking forward to what they have in store for me. / Lesson learned: Anyone can blow a fuse. 4*- (2022.12.18)

It's a decent wrap-up to the second season. I'm glad I have a strong stomach, so I didn't have to look away during certain scenes. Being a seasoned cynic, I could appreciate the Hungarian creators' approach, as they didn't shy away from showing all those intrigues, manipulations, and cunningness without sugarcoating anything. And yet, aside from one head injury, there wasn't even any bloodshed. It deserves a well-earned five stars for an excellent portrayal of (not just Hungarian) reality. / Lesson learned: Not just leeches can attach themselves. (2022.12.18)

I have mixed feelings about the third season, as the individual episodes led to the widest range of ratings I've ever given since watching this series. Except for the seventh episode, none of the others outright disappointed me. Some pleased me, while others were, unfortunately, mediocre. Things somehow settled down in the end; however, the third season was the weakest for me because the creators stretched it too much, and I prefer the original minimalism. / Lesson learned: Appetite comes with eating, so let's not turn it into a luxurious feast. 3*+ (2022.12.28)