PimKraster

Eva Crutzen shines in her role as Cat, delivering a performance that is both heartfelt and authentic. While I've found her previous work to be hit-or-miss, she truly excels in striking the right balance of emotion and humor.

Unlike many Dutch dramas that lose steam after a few episodes, this series kept me watching throughout its run. The storyline is engaging, the characters are well-developed, and the pacing is spot-on. The series masterfully navigates through heartbreaking moments while still offering lots of laughs. It's a testament to the well-crafted script and talented cast.

However, it is not without its flaws. It's hard to praise Meral Polat's performance. Whether due to miscasting or lack of skill, her scenes feel lackluster compared to the rest of the cast, taking away from the overall quality of the series.

Furthermore, the lack of originality and the striking resemblance to other acclaimed shows like "Six Feet Under" and "Russian Doll" the lather even clearer considering the first 15 minutes of episode 1 is a scene-by-scene remake. Additionally, Cat, the main character shares loads of similarities and character traits with the protagonist of "Russian Doll," further reinforcing the sense of familiarity.

However, it's worth noting that after the second episode. The series begins to find its own identity, exploring themes and storylines that set it apart from its American counterpart.

Another major drawback is the poor choice of music throughout the series. While the music sets the mood effectively, the lyrics often feel mismatched with the scene. It's a recurring mistake that Dutch showrunners seem to make time and again. If the words don't complement the on-screen action or add depth to the storytelling, then perhaps it's best to opt for instrumental pieces or explore other options altogether.

Additionally, the series seems to target a specific demographic, often leaving younger or older viewers feeling disconnected from some of its themes. While this isn't necessarily a flaw, it does limit the series' appeal.

Ending on a positive note, the final episode delivers a satisfying conclusion to the series, tying up loose ends and providing closure for the characters and plotlines. It's a testament to the writers' skill that the ending feels both fitting and fulfilling. Showcasing the potential of Dutch television dramas to deliver engaging and thought-provoking content. I rate this 7/10.

Firstly, I must say that Pierre Bokma's portrayal of David Cohen and Claire Bender's performance were outstanding. They played the roles of Jewish council members with such complexity that it was hard not to be moved by the moral dilemmas they faced.

However, Monic Hendrickx and Malou Gorter's performances fall short of expectations. Despite being praised as great actresses, they seem to consistently fall back on familiar character types, resulting in predictable character arcs that lack surprise or depth.

Despite this the show is beautifully made, its cinematography and score create a compelling atmosphere transporting viewers to the wartime struggles of Amsterdam's Jewish community. These technical elements contribute significantly to the overall impact of the show, elevating it beyond its flaws.

This is a cinematic masterpiece filled with awe-inspiring visuals, captivating performances, and a gripping narrative. Director Denis Villeneuve's unmistakable style breathes life into the legendary universe.

Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya are amazing, their characters add emotion and depth to the story, drawing audiences deeper into the world of Arrakis. The cinematography is nothing short of breathtaking. Each frame is meticulously crafted, transporting viewers to the majestic landscapes of the desert planet. The visuals are further enhanced by special effects that push the boundaries of imagination.

Despite its runtime of over three hours, Dune: Part Two never loses its momentum. Every moment is filled with intrigue, suspense, and action, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats from start to finish.

My personal viewing experience was however ruined a bit by the choice of Screen X. The additional screen did little to enhance the immersion, and only around a third of the movie was optimized for it. Fortunately, this did not take away from the overall brilliance of the film. Even on a traditional screen, the film would undoubtedly earn a high rating.

Villeneuve has managed to create a testament to the power of cinema and it cements its place among the greatest sci-fi epics ever made. For these reasons, I rate it 9/10.