The Offer

My episode-by-episode breakdown makes it pretty clear that this series totally knocked my socks off. You might question what's so mind-blowing about a show centered on the creation of a movie so well-known that the outcome is a done deal. Well, consider me pleasantly surprised. Huge props to the creators — they had me hooked, always on the edge of my seat. I soaked in the amazingly crafted atmosphere and top-notch performances. This masterpiece deserves all the recognition it can get. The writing, direction, and acting were spot-on. The casting, especially, deserves a standing ovation — I was completely taken in by the young versions of those acting icons. And before I wrap this up, Colin Hanks once again showcased why I prefer him over his old man. / Lesson learned: Even when the odds are stacked against you, push through. (2022.11.09)

No family gathering can do without the tipsy uncle drinking a few shots and starting to tell stories. You know that sometimes he exaggerates a lot because you already know the stories from the past, given that they are a notorious part of the family canon, but you still can't resist and you keep listening. If he continued telling stories for a while longer, you would leave the table, but then you don't. The storytelling continues and it's incredible entertainment that has charm and lightness, and you just purr with delight. And even though you know where it's all heading, you're still tense and shaking your head at how everything could have turned out in the end. Then it ends and you are genuinely moved. And then you go rediscover the source from which it all began. (2023.10.30)