Leo
I used to hate Adam Sandler movies. I thought his humor appealed to the least common denominator. But I think he has matured over time. The Murder Mystery movies were a fun time pass. Uncut Gems showed his acting prowess. But movies like "You're so not invited to my Bat Mitzvah" and "Leo" show a sense of storytelling in touch with growing up and navigating the world as children/teens.
Leo is a surprisingly heartwarming tale of a wise school pet lizard who helps children cope with their insecurities and growing pains. The voice cast is stellar.
His Dark Materials S1
Phil Pullman's Northern Light's book series is one of the deepest and most philosophical young adult novels. The narrative explores complex themes like theology, particle physics, and beyond. The series is a scathing critique of organized religion, specifically the concepts of sin and salvation.
In 2007, capitalizing on the fantasy fiction wave led by Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings, they tried to make a movie version of the Golden Compass, but failed miserably. The complex themes being diluted in a rushed cinematic story.
But adapted for television in the episodic format the book plays out in a much more compelling manner. They do take liberties with content bringing in characters from the second book into the first season. But it works from a timeline and narrative perspective.
The series has a stellar cast of actors and voice actors, but Dafne Keene who plays Lyra is the highlight. So young, talented, and underrated. Makes me wish that they were still making that X-23 movie.
comment:
p_commentcount