Change Your Image
snoozejonc
10/10 - So perfect that I never get tired of seeing
09/10 - Brilliant with some minor flaws but I happily rewatch
08/10 - Very strong and I would happily rewatch
07/10 - Good and I would eventually rewatch
06/10 - Hit and miss, that I found mostly enjoyable but would not seek to rewatch
05/10 - Distinctly average and I would not seek to rewatch
04/10 - Mostly did not enjoy and would avoid rewatching
03/10 - Strongly disliked for a variety of reasons
02/10 - I either switched off, walked out of the cinema or was close to doing either
01/10 - So bad that I would describe it as not professionally made in any way
I appreciate all scoring is highly subjective to the tastes of an individual.
I take into consideration the writing, cinematography, editing, acting, sound, visual effects and general production values along with the era the film or television show was made.
Ratings
Most Recently Rated
Reviews
Hannibal: Ko no Mono (2014)
Predictable reveal but intense interactions and outstanding visuals
Just looking at the events portrayed in the plot, not a huge amount happens that is not unexpected (the final reveal particularly so). However, it is in the conversations between the likes of Lecter, Graham, Verger, Alana Bloom and Jack Crawford where some excellent foundations are laid and incredibly tense atmosphere generated. The mind games are compelling and the dialogue interesting.
Visually it is pretty spectacular, with so many beautifully designed and disturbing moments that are wonderfully filmed and edited.
All actors are on great for as always.
For me it's an 8.5/10, but I round upwards.
Hannibal: Naka-Choko (2014)
Lays strong foundations for what is to come
The interplay between Will and Hannibal is getting more extreme and I think you have to accept this aspect of the story for it to work for you. The writers use of the characters Randall Tier and Freddie Lounds in a way that works well for the plot, but certain moments are presented in such an overly creepy mysterious way it feels like it's for horror effect and to purposely withhold information that will be revealed later.
Outside of the general mind games between Will and various characters the other plot of interest involves the character Mason Verger that seems to be establishing the character for what might come later.
Visually as always it is top-drawer, with excellent cinematography, editing and art design.
Hannibal: Shiizakana (2014)
Strong episode with some great Hannibal v Will moments
For me the highlight is the continuing mind games between the above characters. Their dialogue about how it feels to kill and Hannibal's subsequent actions are the most interesting aspect.
The writers have been developing Hannibal's nefarious practices as a psychiatrist very well in the past few episodes. This makes Will's link up with one of his other patients very intriguing.
This episode's obligatory killer-of-the-week trope is one of the creepier ones with some effective horror sequences. You have to accept the concept of what Randall is doing, and this requires so liberal suspension of disbelief.
Visually it is fantastic as always, as it combines excellent cinematography, art design and editing.
Star Trek: Discovery: Coming Home (2022)
Entertaining finale with a good message
This is a good conclusion to the events set up so well in the previous episode.
There is a lot of emotion which will probably be annoy those who dislike this aspect of Discovery, but here it is necessary and fits the conclusion of the season arc well. I think the main issue is so many other episodes of the show are cluttered with characters sharing their feelings, it lessons the impact of what should be an emotional finale that (as Bones would say) should bring the house down. Most people will likely roll their eyes at what appears to be an unprofessional crew stopping work to cry and share feelings for the umpteenth time.
In its own merit the story finishes what was set up perfectly in the previous episode with a nice balance of sci-fi mystery and thrilling action. I like the fact that several characters contribute to the outcome and that the message about solidarity and understanding is excellent.
It is not perfect. Certain scenes involving Book and Ndoye are incredibly predictable, plus you wonder why T'Rina saved her Vulcan mind meld until so late in the game considering the communication issues.
I generally like the pacing and visuals, plus all performances are good as always.
Star Trek: Discovery: Species Ten-C (2022)
Solid eventful episode
Species Ten-C has a classic sci-fi premise borrowed from various great movies like Arrival, Close Encounters, and Trek episodes like Darmok. The filmmakers here do it in their own distinctive Discovery way with emphasis on emotions and find the time for the obligatory (thankfully minimum) expressions of feeling.
For me it works pretty well thanks to solid A-B-C plots that link together well. In typical Trek style characters use their brains to resolve problems which is a big positive, plus several characters get to contribute. Lots of the imagery involves people standing about discussing technobabble which is also very Trek, but not exactly cinematic.
It finally portrays what the season 3 narrative has been crawling towards. I cannot say it has been worth the wait, but it is the most interesting and eventful episode since But To Connect. It ends in a suspenseful way that makes me want to know if/how it will resolve.
For me it's a 7.5/10, but I round upwards.
Hannibal: Mukozuke (2014)
Too audacious to live
This is a strong follow up to the cliffhanger of the previous episode. For me it's most important objective after showing Beverly's reckless behaviour is a suitable outcome and it does so with interest. The art designers of Hannibal pride themselves on creating macabre visuals and this has some unforgettable imagery.
Other highlights of the episode include the manipulative conversations taking place between various characters at the psychiatric hospital. A lot of intrigue is created by the dialogue exchanges, particularly involving Gideon, Graham and Lecter. I am compelled to find out what is going to happen to these over the next few chapters.
That being said we know Hannibal ends up in a cell eventually, so the intrigue goes only so far. Likewise any suspense associated with a certain scene towards the end. Considering the contrivances involved the filmmakers still make it a very cinematic moment full of striking imagery.
For me its an 8.5/10, but I round upwards.
Hannibal: Su-zakana (2014)
Rebirth
Su-zakana's apt themes of rebirth involves the writers pulling back from the recent Lecter focussed carnage and letting the show's original formula rise from the ashes. If you like the killer-of-the-week trope and the associated character exchanges between Graham and Lecter you are sure to take comfort in this one.
The above is done with a new dynamic between the two characters that works well. Various symbolism and parallels are prominent a several scenes, plus it has an unhealthy dose of horse-related body horror.
Some new characters established in the book Hannibal are introduced, piquing an interest in how the series writers will portray them in future episodes.
There are more love scenes involving Lecter, which continue the show's tendency to glamourise this fictional serial killer. For me the character's relationship with Dr Bloom needs an appropriate resolution in the overarching narrative to counterbalance this.
Visually it is pretty gruesome at times and as always beautifully filmed.
All actors are on great form, particularly Jeremy Davies.
Hannibal: Yakimono (2014)
Strong episode
Yakimono is full of great twists and turns but requires a liberal suspension of disbelief.
The great conclusion of the previous episode is followed up in outrageous style by the writers continuing to portray Hannibal's elusiveness. It would seem the writers are testing their ability to Breaking Bad their way of painted-in corners with Lecter's ability to manipulate. Does it work? Almost, but not entirely, in my opinion. Some contrivances are slightly too strong, such as how well he anticipates the actions of others and how perfectly everything appears to work out in relation to his manipulation of Miriam Lass. Certain characters are beginning to look gullible at the hands of his trickery. Despite the damning physical evidence, I have difficulty accepting that any self-respecting criminal investigator or psychological profiler would accept Chilton as the ripper at this point. It is however still a compelling journey with Graham v Lecter at the heart of the case. I want to see how he's caught. Hopefully it will involve being outsmarted by Graham.
As always the visuals are tremendous and the performances are great. Anna Chlumsky is particularly good in all her scenes and likewise Raùl Esparza.
Star Trek: Discovery: Rosetta (2022)
Just about saved by the visuals
Rosetta is a typical Discovery episode that takes a decent premise and clutters it up with the typical counselling sessions.
I generally like the away mission and the emotional moments are an important part of the plot's resolution. Unfortunately the writers focus so much on these themes in virtually every episode you feel saturated by the characters' feelings. The sub-plot on Discovery is less interesting, but necessary to keep the arc of Booker and Tarkan progressing. The less said about the very forced "tact" related dialogue between two characters the better.
For me the writers continue to drag out the build-up to Species 10C and have not justified a full season's screen time with enough interesting material. For a plot that recently had a ticking clock element introduced it generally lacks urgency.
I dislike the slow motion strutting at the start, but generally the visuals are strong. Putting the away team in an inhospitable environment is always good and the art design is great.
Hannibal: Hassun (2014)
Strong episode
Hossun has an intriguing focus on Lecter's behaviour in relation to Graham's situation.
As a general rule I am not a huge fan of courtroom drama, but the related scenes are solidly portrayed with little of the usual clichés associated with the genre.
Lecter's seemingly genuine attitude towards Will's defence is a concept that introduces a nice bit of uncertainty to the story. It now becomes even more interesting to find out how we get to that flashforward moment (involving Crawford and Lecter) shown in the season's opening scene. Speaking of Crawford the writers develop the character in a positive way in this episode.
As ever Hannibal likes to horrify and the writers cannot help themselves regardless of the story being mostly courtroom procedure. One such moment does so whilst also twisting the plot in an unexpected direction.
Visually it has more of the traditional standout moments involving crime scenes and Graham's dream and visions.
Hannibal: Takiawase (2014)
The cure
I think Takiawase is one of the bleakest but effective episodes of Hannibal so far.
It's killer-of-the-week trope is one of the most unusual and the casting of Amanda Plummer is one of the best creative decision made by the filmmakers. So many guest stars have been good, but never quite made me feel they are the disturbed individual they portray, as opposed to an actor playing the part. However, without question she does it effortlessly. This aspect of the story portrays the main themes of the episode that tie in brilliantly with the scenes involving Bella, Jack and Hannibal.
Bella and Jack have a number of emotional scenes together that are quite touching. Lawrence Fishburne and Gia Torres are incredibly good together. Hannibal's god complex links perfectly to this. Only with this character could saving a life feel almost as chilling as taking one.
Speaking of chilling, if you set aside the "too stupid to live" aspect of a certain character's actions, the final scene includes some of the most nightmare inducing moments of Hannibal so far. I was getting to a point in the show of feeling that Mads Mikkelsen's version is nowhere near as scary as the Anthony Hopkins counterpart in Silence of the Lambs, however the final few moments (visually) are up there.
As always the visuals are powerful and all performances are strong.
For me it is a 9.5/10, but I round upwards.
Hannibal: Sakizuke (2014)
Gruesome follow up to the opening episode
Sakizuki is a grim episode on numerous levels. The scenes involving the killer-of-the-week and his victims are hideous in both visuals and concept. The tone for this is set from the opening scene, which has to be one of the most disturbing pre-credit sequences in a tv show.
The writers wisely choose to focus on Lecter's involvement in the case, which is more compelling than trying to explain the psychological profile of a new character. It links well to Lecter's character development, God complex, and provides some opportunities for dark humour; "Love your work".
Thankfully in the midst of this macabre plot are some rays of hope in the shape of Will Graham's scenes, which hint at what is likely to be coming from the character. Additionally Dr DuMaurier is used well by the writers. All actors are great as ever, particularly Hugh Dancy.
As horrific as certain scenes are you have to appreciate the art direction and cinematography in general.
Better Call Saul: Alpine Shepherd Boy (2015)
Strong episode with standout moments
Alpine Shepherd Boy develops the character Jimmy and Chuck nicely. Chuck's condition is given a strong focus, which at this point in the overarching narrative is needed. In association with this the writers do a great job of expanding on their relationship. Jimmy's genuine care for Chuck further increases his likability as a lead character.
Additionally there is some fantastic humour in Jimmy's attempts to link with new clients in the early scenes as he interacts with various colourful characters. Likewise his schmooze at the retirement home is very entertaining. These are my favourite moments and lift the episode significantly.
It is a fairly uneven episode that shifts in tone frequently. Focus shifts almost entirely to Mike towards the end, which involves some great moments of visual storytelling that sets up the next episode well.
Bob Odenkirk is outstanding as always and receives great support from Michael McKean and others.
For me it is an 8.5/10, but I round upwards.
Hannibal: Kaiseki (2014)
Grim in moments, but a very strong start
Kaiseki follows on effortlessly from the impactful conclusion of the first season.
The opening scene is unexpected and incredibly well constructed visually. It also sets the scene in a 'Breaking Bad' style way, peaking curiosity about how the writers will take you to this point in the story.
Characters such as Graham, Crawford, Lecter, Dr Bloom, and Dr DuMaurier are used perfectly in relation to what has become of Graham. I particularly like how the consequences of Crawford's previous decisions regarding Graham are being scrutinised as details like this are sometimes conveniently ignored by writers. Likewise they are not making the plot conveniently oblivious to Lecter as a suspect which makes it feel more plausible.
Some of the crime scene and horror sequences are suitably hideous as always. Visually they are brilliantly designed, filmed and edited. Generally the cinematography and art direction is excellent throughout the episode.
All actors are on great form as always.
Better Call Saul: Hero (2015)
Very amusing with memorable moments
Hero is another very strong episode that explores Jimmy's character nicely in various interesting scenes. The introductory flashback sets the tone nicely for what is to come.
It follows on from the previous situation with the Kettlemans in a compelling way, with some good focus on Jimmy's public persona and underlying fortitude. For me his best exchanges of dialogue are with Kettlemans and with Nacho in a follow up scene. It is all well written and performed. Bob Odenkirk is sheer entertainment as always and he supported well by the likes of Rhea Seehorn, Patrick Fabian and others.
Although lighter in its subject matter it is reminiscent of Breaking Bad's style. The writers paint characters into corners and plausibly extract them. I love the whole situation with Jimmy and the billboard, which is both clever and funny.
As always the cinematography, art design and editing is top drawer.
Hannibal: Savoureux (2013)
Stitched up like a kipper
Hannibal likes to present its characters dead, gutted, skinned and cooked, but none resemble the above breakfast item more then Will Graham by the end of this episode. The writers have done an effective job of it slowly throughout the season and it all leads to this episode. Importantly it ends in a way that perfectly hooks you into the next season.
All characters are used well especially Graham, Hannibal, Crawford and Dr Bloom. You do have suspend the disbelief that nobody seems to suspect Hannibal, but maybe my bias is informed by prior knowledge of the character. Dr DuMaurier's scenes are intriguing as ever.
As always the visuals are top drawer and performances are great.
As a first season it surpassed what my expectations were beforehand. It is hard seeing anyone other than Anthony Hopkins as Lecter, and although Mikkelsen's version is a bit to glamourised, it works well for the story.
Hannibal: Relevés (2013)
Very strong set up to the season finale
Relevés very much feels like the first half of a two-part episode as everything falls into place perfectly for its cliffhanger ending. It makes me want to know what happens next and have to restrain myself from finding out immediately.
I cannot give much detail without spoiling. However, it's safe to say that the writers make excellent use of the foundations laid by previous plot details throughout the season and bring the characters to a riveting place under the most tense of circumstances. Arguably it's predictable, but I do not think it makes it any less gripping.
Characters like Abigail, Lecter, Graham, and Jack Crawford are used particularly well in the main events, plus there is a lot of interest peaked in the character of Dr DuMaurier.
Visually it is incredibly effective as always and the cast are terrific.
Hannibal: Rôti (2013)
Blood, guts and psychiatry
I am glad they followed up the previous introduction of Dr Abel Gideon with this episode that makes the most of the character. The writers use him effectively as a main antagonist but also in conjunction the continuing focus on Will Graham's mental deterioration. Eddie Izzard is great in the role, but I still think he is miscast as I cannot disassociate myself from his comedy. That being said, when Gideon is used for the purpose of jet black humour (lines about marriage etc), I see the advantage of it being Izzard.
For me the strongest aspect are the scenes involving Graham. The filmmakers and Hugh Dancy portray his physical and mental state compellingly. It is almost too realistic in some moments as you feel like shouting at Crawford or Bloom to pull him out of situations and march him strait to a hospital for a second opinion.
The writers continue to use Lecter in a clever manipulative way in his interactions with others.
I don't find gore particularly entertaining and it's hard to argue against certain moments being gratuitous, but visually it is impressive as always. In addition to the body horror the psychological scenes involving Graham's hallucinations are strong. Generally the suspense created by what we see and hear is great.
Star Trek: Discovery: The Galactic Barrier (2022)
Not bad but kills momentum
Overall for me this is an okay episode thanks to some good character development and backstory for the character Tarka. He has been one of the more enjoyable presences of the fourth season, thanks to Shawn Doyle's entertaining performances and giving him more screen time is a positive. That being said I think the information revealed in his backstory is moderately interesting at best, however it makes you invest more in his mission.
The scenes related to the galactic barrier are a decent enough problem for the crew to overcome, but frustrate with their ability to destroy the flow of the overarching narrative. It feels like the crew should have been out of the Milky Way two episodes ago.
Any Burnham detractors will likely take umbrage at hearing her teach the Federation President all about good leadership. I think it's quite funny as it borders on unintentional parody how much the writers put her on a pedestal.
The less said about Stamets' awkward dialogue with the character Grey the better, particularly that forced line about his father. The writers can't help themselves!
Hannibal: Buffet Froid (2013)
Nightmare fuel
Hannibal is a disturbing show and portrays concepts that are frequently horrific, however Buffet Froid is the first episode with a tone that I would describe as pure horror. Like most episodes the subject matter is not enjoyable, but as a viewing experience of filmmaking designed to induce fear it is the most powerful of the show so far.
It has a strong scenes involving Graham, Crawford and Lecter, revealing more about Lecter's intentions and the reason for Will's deteriorating mental state. For me it is very compelling and makes me want to find out what will happen next.
The obligatory killer-of-the-week trope is quite different (in a positive way) to the usual stock serial-killer style that previous episodes have used. I find this to be one of the scariest examples, as the motivation makes you pity both the victim and perpetrator, plus it intwines well with the arcs of Graham and Lecter.
Importantly the visual storytelling is incredibly effective. The opening scene is up there with any classic suspenseful-horror sequence and likewise the follow-up scenes involving Will's experiences with crime scene. To be honest every scene involving the Ellen Muth's character and other related scenes is difficult to forget.
All actors are on great form as ever.
I have always found horror and what scares a viewer to be down to personal fears, similar to comedy depending on what appeals to a particular sense of humour. I think Buffet Froid taps into fears that many will identify with, such as the safety associated with your own bed and exploits it well.
Hannibal: Trou Normand (2013)
Intriguing episode for the main characters
This is a strong episode for character development associated with Lecter, Graham, and Abigail. The writers use their relationships well along with the associated deception. What we find out towards the end is a particularly interesting twist.
The killer-of-the-week aspect of the plot is suitably horrific in its concept, but for me it does not make the most of Lance Henriksen. He is great when on screen but there is not much material to justify his appearance. Hannibal is a show that focuses well on its central characters but sometimes shortchanges the one-off serial killers to the point they feel like stock villains due to the lack of detail afforded to them as individuals.
Visually the cinematography, art design and editing is great as always.
Hannibal: Fromage (2013)
A sadistic face-off
Fromage is another strong Lecter focussed episode. Certain aspects of the story were set up nicely in Sorbet for the killer-of-the-week aspect of the plot. What it does well is develop Lecter's character through his friendship needs and choices. The reflective scenes with Dr Du Maurier compliment what happens quite well.
The story also functions as a lead-in to some effective moments of horror suspense and a big action climax. As you can imagine the filmmakers do great work in these scenes. One set in a creepy basement is quite spine-tingling. Additionally there are several bits that put you on edge such as the moment Will listens through a wall for a sound and pretty much every scene involving the character Tobias.
Will's mental deterioration continues to be effectively portrayed in multiple scenes. Hugh Dancy is as convincing as ever in these moments.
For me it is an 8.5/10, but I round upwards.
Hannibal: Sorbet (2013)
Macabre elegance
The plot does have a killer-of-the-week aspect to it, but there is a heavy focus on Hannibal Lecter that follows on perfectly from the previous episode. His actions are depicted in that clever, largely unseen way that has been use well so far in the show. There is also some interesting backstory elements that slightly expand his portrayal.
There is no denying that the subject matter (as to be expected) is horrendous, but the writers, filmmakers and actors manage to put across a lot of disturbing imagery in a fairly graceful way using impressive art direction, strong editing and use of music. It tells it's story visually and that's all you can ask on screen.
All actors are on great form as ever, particularly Hugh Dancy, Mads Mikkelsen and Lawrence Fishburne. Gillian Anderson also makes a good impression in a strong first scene for her character.
There is very little to enjoy in such dark subject matter, outside of the irony of what's happening and certain moments of banter between the forensic investigation characters, but there is no denying it is well made and engaging.
For me it's an 8.5/10 but I round upwards.
Hannibal: Entrée (2013)
The main plot kicks into gear
This is another strong episode and it feels like a distinct uplift in momentum regarding characters like Lecter and Jack Crawford.
It is difficult to mention details without spoiling, but the plot focuses on the activities of a certain serial killer with potential links to one already incarcerated. For me the plot unfolds in a suspenseful and compelling way that leads to a good reveal. The reveal of course is quite predictable, given what has been implied in the previous episodes.
For me the writers make good use of the characters Will Graham, Hannibal Lecter, Jack Crawford and Dr Chilton. Fans of the movie Silence of the Lambs should appreciate it and also the aesthetic created at a certain location.
Generally the visuals (although horrific) are incredibly well designed and captured by the cinematography. As always the sound makes everything that much creepier.
I think the cast, particularly the main stars, is on great form. However, I personally think Eddie Izzard was miscast. I am a fan of his comedy and cannot get past the fact that it is him, which takes me out of the moment. His bearded face reminds me of David Brent in certain images.
Star Trek: Discovery: Rubicon (2022)
Enjoyable episode
I think this is a pretty entertaining episode with a classic Star Trek cat and mouse situation in space. Of course there is only so much suspense that can be generated in certain situations because you know the writers are unlikely to cross the line of making certain characters kill each other or become full-blooded enemies. (It's not Trek)
I like emphasis within the character conflict situations on finding a middle ground, even if doing so relies on a bit of technobabble. These are good subjects to explore and feel traditionally Trek in philosophy. There are some moments where it feels a bit forced, particularly the dialogue between Bryce and Rhys. In fact this makes both characters look annoyingly unprofessional for the sake of setting up an underlying theme and giving Culiber an opportunity to look cool.
I like the return of a certain character, (one of the better ones from previous episodes) who is used well in a slightly adversarial role to the character Michael. This could have been made more dramatic, but you always feel a plot contrivance will come about to save Michael from having to make a certain decision.
As always Michael is front and centre of the most important scenes. In this instance for me it works well and is quite cinematic. I do though like that Stamets gets to make a key contribution. Where would starships be without their engineers?