431. Web-series Reviews – 237

More web-series reviews…


Fubar – 2nd season came in 2025.  A father and daughter have both been working as CIA Operatives for years, but each kept their involvement in the CIA hidden from the other, resulting in their entire relationship being a gigantic lie. Upon learning of each other's involvement in the CIA, the pair are forced to work together as partners, and against the backdrop of explosive action, and espionage, learn who each other really are.

A review from IMDB...

Season 1 of FUBAR was dumb, yes - but it had charm. Arnold's classic one-liners, some genuinely funny digs (especially the politically incorrect ones tied to his fitness background), and just enough self-awareness made it a guilty pleasure. It was silly, but at least it knew it.

Season 2 throws all of that away. The humor is gone, replaced by chaotic, cliché-ridden action where every bullet hits its mark - unless you're a bad guy, of course. Enemies are laughably incompetent, bullets pierce metal and furniture effortlessly, yet Arnold somehow finds protection behind a sofa cushion. The action is so constant and over-the-top that it numbs the viewer. There's no rhythm, no pacing, no stakes - just noise.

And then there's the messaging: the thick layer of outdated American exceptionalism becomes unbearable. One line claims that if the U. S. power grid fails, the entire global economy crashes. Seriously? In a world where the U. S. can't even keep its own infrastructure in check, let alone lead by example, this feels more like a nationalist fantasy than entertainment.

With Trump back in office and the U. S. spiraling, this tone feels not just tone-deaf - it's delusional. Season 2 is everything that makes modern action series unbearable: bloated, overproduced, unfunny, and self-important. I'm out.

My Take – An ok series.

 

The Americas – Came in 2025.  Explores the wonders, mysteries, and fragilities of the Americas, the largest landmass on Earth, as well as extraordinary, untold wildlife tales that will resonate with millions of people all over the world.

A review from IMDB...

Wow! The Americas is an incredible docu-series about North and South America with breathtaking views of the land and the animals that live there. I really enjoyed Tom Hanks' narration; his unique storytelling brings the beauty and struggles of nature to life. Every episode is filled with jaw-dropping shots that made me appreciate the wild world around us.

The Americas is a ten-episode television series that explores the unique animals and landscapes of the vast North and South America. Scored by composer Hans Zimmer and narrated by Tom Hanks, the series shows how different species survive and adapt while also highlighting the effects of climate change and human activity. Each episode focuses on a different region, giving a close look at the fascinating wildlife and environments that make it special. From the fast-paced lives of ants to the mesmerizing creatures of the deep ocean, the documentary captures nature's wonders like never before.

This series is visually amazing with its groundbreaking cinematography. The filmmakers use advanced drone technology to glide over vast landscapes, night-vision cameras to reveal the secret lives of nocturnal animals, and slow-motion footage to capture the precise moment a predator strikes. These techniques made me feel like I was right there in the wild. Tom Hanks' narration adds warmth and curiosity to the show. Zimmer's soundtrack builds tension during dramatic moments and enhances the wonder of peaceful scenes. My favorite part is when the mother snake goes above and beyond for her baby snakes, showing the incredible instinct and care animals have for their young. The filmmakers also capture a massive storm in stunning detail, showcasing the sheer power of nature in a way that feels both terrifying and beautiful.

The show's message is about protecting nature. It shows the dangers of deforestation, pollution, and climate change and encourages people to take action. The series raises awareness and makes viewers think about how each one of us can help preserve the environment. Be forewarned that some scenes of predators hunting their prey are pretty graphic and unsuited for younger viewers.

I give The Americas 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults.

My Take – An excellent series!

 

The Chelsea Detective – Running since 2022. 3 seasons so far. Detective Inspector Max Arnold, whose lifestyle on a battered houseboat in Chelsea's Cheyne Walk contrasts sharply with the affluent elite whose crimes he helps solve alongside partner DS Layla Walsh.

A review from IMDB...

Yet another superb British cop show. Due to its size and dominance in British culture, a good number of UK police dramas are set in London, the capital. UK TV show makers have based a good number of cop shows in regional parts of the UK and the local customs and accents add flavour to the show.

With the exception of Whitechapel, which was East End specific, The Chelsea Detective makes a virtue of its specific London suburban location with lots of gorgeous shots of Chelsea landmarks, a focus on the mostly affluent lifestyles in what was once a village near the city rather than big city life in central London, a cameo by the famous Chelsea Pensioners, and the lead detective DI Max Arnold (Adrian Scarborough) is a local lad with long standing family connections to the area. Arnold adds Chelsea colour by living on a Thames houseboat and riding a mountain bike to work.

The show is gentle and very much steeped in the upper crust lifestyle of Chelsea but the plots are strong and the supporting cast of detectives, especial DS Priya Shamsie (Sonita Henry) in Season 1 and DS Lavia Walsh (Venessa Emma) in Seasons 2 and 3, are an excellent compliment to DI Arnold's mildly eccentric persistence and witty dry humour. Yes there's the obligatory racial quotas in the cast but the show avoids much of the PC wokery one sees in dramas in the 2020's. Seasons 2 and 3 are just as strong as Season 1.

My Take – Worth a watch!

Adios till next time😊!!

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