POIguy Reviews

Andor (2022– )

A very solid entry in the SW Universe

[9/10 · 24 November 2022]

Andor is the most mature we've ever seen Star Wars, and I quite like it. I think far too often Star Wars plays off very serious conflicts into jokes for the sake of appealing to younger audiences, but this is not the case in Andor. Everything feels real, raw, and mature. The show isn't explicit, but it gets very dark. Andor gives you a real taste of just how controlling the Empire was during the time between episodes 3 and 4. You learn to hate the empire and root for the start of the rebellion. For me, the highlight of this show was 1x10 with the Escape from Narkina. Really the whole Narkina storyline was wonderful, but the escape was so thrilling I didn't want it to end. I'm going to give the show a 9/10 however because I thought there were some episodes that were boring and the pacing could have been faster. Andor is a very solid entry into the Star Wars Universe, and I can't wait for season 2!

The White Lotus (2021–2025)

The most bizarre HBO show

[10/10 · 6 November 2022]

This show is one of the strangest comedies I've ever watched, but it works in the best way posssible. I love every single storyline in this show, and I was instantly hooked. The characters are all flawed in their own ways, and while they each have unique interests and goals, their stories intersect in some of the most hilarious ways possible. The music choices were spot on, inducing me with anxiety at exactly at the right moments. I could barely sit still during parts of this show, as I was so intrigued by what was going on and what will happen next. Armond was my favorite character, and even though he is a bit of a creep, I couldn't help but cheer at my TV screen while I was watching him in episode 6. Shane and Rachel's storyline was entertaining, and I was rooting for Rachel to leave Shane since episode 2. The Mossbacher's storyline had a very wierd start, but all of those characters grew on me. And of course Tanya was a complete train wreck, and watching her mess up other people's lives was a highlight of this show.

I have now watched season 2 and it's even better! These characters are so relatable and make mistakes that I think we would all make. The writing is simple yet has depth and nuance to it. It's funny how pretty much every character besides Tanya was given a bittersweet ending. Everyone didn't get everything they wanted, but a nice consolation instead. Bert Di Grasso is the man this season! While everyone else is getting caught up in drama, this dude is just chilling and trying to have a good time. He's the comedia relief this season. The Ethan and Camerson storyline with their wives took an interesting turn, and the confrontation between the two was intense. Their story provides an interesting take on married life and attraction to your partner. Isabella's storyline I didn't connect with at first, but is tragic when you think about it. I think with most of these characters, they just want love, but there's always something in the way. They're all just doing the best they can, and as viewers, we get to watch them make all the messy mistakes along the way. Bring on season 3!

How to Build a Sex Room (2022)

Wonderful, entertaining show that demystifies kink and bdsm

[10/10 · 17 September 2022]

This is perhaps one of the greatest sex-positive pieces of media I've ever watched! This show takes a topic like bdsm and turns it into digestible, entertaining content that does an amazing job of explaining and demystifiying bdsm culture. I absolutely adore Melaine. She is so funny and adorable. Her designs are out of this world. She makes me want a sex room! I am in love with her designs! Also Mike is really funny too and a joy to watch.

This show needs to be watched by more people. I think it would do a lot to get people at least less scared of bdsm/kink. This show makes kink seem less frightning and more inviting. Hopefully more people watch this show.

Cheer (2020–2022)

An amazing sports documentary

[10/10 · 8 September 2022]

This show is absolutely incredible and makes me realize that cheerleading is more than just a hobby, it's a sport. Cheerleaders work very hard just like other sports but rarely get the recognition, fame, or respect that other sports get. I couldn't believe some of the feats that were accomplished throughout this show. It's incredible to see what these athletes are capable of.

Cheer is done so well and really deserves more recognition. I cared about the athletes and coaches, and I wanted them all to succeed. The episodes fly by without there being any filler. The Jerry episode broke my heart. I absolutely can't believe about all the stuff that came out about him, and it just goes to show that you really don't know anyone.

I can't recommend this show enough. Go watch cheer!

The Bear (2022– )

Go watch The Bear!

[10/10 · 12 August 2022]

The Bear oozes heart and soul in every episode. Despite its short run time, The Bear packs a huge punch. Don't be scared off by the fact that this show deals a lot with culinary arts, as that is only one facet of the show. The Bear does a great job of showcasing various foods and what it's like to work in a fast paced restaurant, but this show absolutely nailed the family aspect of working in a kitchen environment. There is so much chemistry between the characters it makes me want to work there (not really, but it would be fun to hang out with The Bear workers). At the center of this show is family. Your family isn't always just blood; they can be the people you work with and sweat and bleed for. The Bear does a great job of showing how people from different backgrounds can come together and create something amazing. I am really excited for season 2! Go watch The Bear now!!!

Obi-Wan Kenobi (2022)

Very cool moments but suffers from poor writing and plot holes

[7/10 · 22 June 2022]

I feel that Obi-Wan Kenobi should have been an easy home run for disney plus. They got back Ewan McGregor as Obi-Wan and Hayden Christiansen as Darth Vader as well as a multi million dollar budget and backing from Disney. Unfortunately, this show still faults from mistakes that Disney should not be making.

Let's start with the good. Obi-Wan Kenobi has stellar visuals, very nice CGI, and mostly great acting. This show has some of the coolest Star Wars moments, specifically the Order 66 scene in part 1, pretty much every Darth Vader scene, and the final battle with Obi-Wan. I think that this show was relying on these cool moments to distract the viewer from some of the problems that it faces.

Some of the writing in this show is absurd and unrealistic, even by Star Wars standards. The Leia chase scene in part 1 made absolutely no sense. How can a 10 year old girl outrun multiple Imperial guards in a forest? I also can't forgive how easy it was for the rebels to get away in part 5. They did have a character death in the escape scene, but I can't understand how the Empire's ships just let the rebels get away after getting the bay doors open. Normally it is much harder to perform an escape.

The one plot point that I cannot forgive is how Darth Vader supposedly knew Reva survived Order 66 and that she was going to betray him. Why would he purposely let her survive order 66? Are we supposed to believe Vader somehow knew 10 years after Order 66 that Reva would play an integral role in finding Kenobi? He's banking on something happening that is extremely unlikely. The whole Grand Inquisitor being dead plot was fine until you realize that Vader knew the Grand Inquisitor got stabbed and survied due to the Dark Side, yet also Vader stabs Reva and assumes she will die??? I don't believe Vader is that stupid.

I think the concept of the show was cool, but it's very clear this should have been a movie and shortened just a little bit. I don't really think anything on the show was that neat besides the Darth Vader and Obi-Wan scenes. Reva's actress was not very good and I did not care for her character. They took way too long to explain her backstory, and when they finally showed her backstory and the plot twist, it fell flat for me. I just couldn't believe it. I don't know if we will get a season 2 of this show, but if we do hopefully the writing can improve.

United States of Al (2021–2022)

Great Show

[9/10 · 21 May 2022]

This show is actually pretty good! Al steals the show and brings a quircky sense of humor to the show that I wish we could have seen more of. The other cast is likeable, and I really can't nitpick much on the show other than the fact that it got cancelled too early. There were storylines that didn't exactly pan out due to the cancellation, but the content we did get was entertaining enough. I don't know why CBS cancelled United States of Al.

Halo (2022– )

Half good half bad

[7/10 · 20 May 2022]

While I've never played much of the Halo video games, I was interested in this show as a sci-fi story. After 9 episodes, I feel that this show had some good moments, but was bogged down by a very boring and useless subplot.

The plot involving Master Chief and the Spartans was nicely done. I enjoyed finding out Master Chief was kidnapped as a child and was manipulated by Halsey. The action sequences were exciting and well done. I was really impressed by the costume design, especially for the Spartans.

The Kwan Ha subplot is this show's greatest downfall. I don't like Kwan Ha, as I found her annoying and useless. The fact that she gets an entire episode befuddles me. If they removed her and her subplot, I think the show would get a 9 or 10.

Overall, it's a decent show, but the Kwan Ha stuff severely hurts the show.

Moon Knight (2022)

Pretty good Marvel/Disney+ series

[9/10 · 6 May 2022]

This series has a lot to say about mental health, and I loved the way it explored Marc/Steven's split personalities. The fight scenes were pretty decent although a bit wierd with the greek gods fighting. The show's story is a bit strange at times, but it's something you get used to.

Abbott Elementary (2021– )

Review from a school teacher - this show is not too far off from reality

[10/10 · 4 May 2022]

This is like the Office or Brooklyn 99 but with an elementary school as the primary focus. Abbott Elementary is really not that far off from reality, but with a jolt of comedy and wholesome moments thrown in. I find myself very connected to this show given that I am a teacher. I really hope this show goes on for a long time.

Star Wars: The Bad Batch (2021–2024)

Very Well Put Together

[10/10 · 4 May 2022]

The Bad Batch shines in compact, thrilling storytelling. While it never achieved the epic highs of the clone wars, it also avoided some of the embarassing lows of clone wars. As a whole, I think it's actually better than its predacessor, and it also gives a special look at the galaxy immediately following the clone wars. I really enjoyed the dynamic between the Bad Batch. While many believe Omega to be an unecessary, annoying character, I think she adds a bit of charm to the show. Her and Wrecker's moments are some of the most wholesome in the Star Wars Universe. I can't wait for season 2!

The Cleaning Lady (2022– )

Underrated

[10/10 · 15 April 2022]

This show should be getting more recognition and praise. I was really impressed with The Cleaning Lady, especially since it was on network television. Elodie Yung shines in this show, and I found her character to be heartbreaking. Tony was constantly being put in morally grey situations, and it really makes you think about how things aren't so black and white in the world. People are sometimes forced to make very difficult decisions, and quite frankly I don't blame Tony for making the choices she did. It's really unfortunate to think that there are people put in positions similar to hers, and it has changed my perspective on some issues. What I like about the Cleaning Lady is that it's a show that never preaches or lectures at you, but instead makes you think and allows you to come to your own decision. It doesn't feel "woke" or annoying unlike a lot of other TV shows currently. I really hope The Cleaning Lady returns for a season 2.

Star Wars: The Clone Wars (2008–2020)

Has epic highs but also embarassing lows

[9/10 · 15 April 2022]

When The Clone Wars is at its best, it is quite possibly the best the Star Wars franchise has to offer. This show has some epic arcs, such as the Umbara arc, the Seige of Mandalore, and the Mortis arc. Storylines like these expand the lore of Star Wars and offer engaging and thrilling stories to latch onto. Unfortunately, the Clone Wars also has some not so thrilling arcs (basically anything to do with Jar-Jar or driods). I'm not sure why these arcs were put in here, but they ruin the show from being a 10/10. Other than these boring arcs, the rest of the show is fantastic. It's a show that's great for both kids and adults which is quite rare.

Euphoria (2019– )

Absolutely brilliant

[10/10 · 6 March 2022]

When I first encountered Euphoria, I thought it was going to be one of those angsty teen dramas filled with pointless melodrama, paper thin characters, and never ending love triangles. Euphoria ended up being one of the most solid, gritty, and entertaining teen dramas I've ever seen. I've noticed a pattern in the last few years in teen dramas. It's almost like they are competing to see which one can be more dark and gritty. Euphoria takes the cake for now. The characters are so relatable, it reminds me of being in high school. Zendaya absolutely crushes it as Rue, and the supporting cast is equally as supurb. The show has multiple plotlines occuring at once, and I don't think there is is one bad plotline. The Nate and Cal arc is probably the best, as we get to see a messed up father pass on his traits to his son. I also found Kat's storyline intriguing, especially since we rarely get to see sexuality presented like her and her "paypigs". The love triangle between Nate, Cassie, and Maddy was believable and had me on the edge of my seat. My only complaint is that my favorite character, BB, is severly underutlilzed. BB is the comic relief of the show and the personification of the hot cheeto girl stereotype. She is like a copy paste of so many girls I went to high school with and I'm all for it. The writers need to give her a bit more screentime in future seasons.

Legacies (2018–2022)

A huge step down from TVD & TO

[2/10 · 18 February 2022]

This show takes a much more campy tone compared to its predecessors. Everything from the "monster of the week" format to the fact that the main characters call themselves the super squad. The show feels like it was written by a 12 year old. Don't watch this show that is a disrespect to the TVD franchise.

The Book of Boba Fett (2021–2022)

First half is boring, second half is amazing

[8/10 · 10 February 2022]

This show started out incredibly slow with very little to offer star wars fans. The overall plot of the show is pretty basic. Boba Fett wants to stop the spice trade that is threatening the city he's in charge of. It's a fine premise, but wow was it boring to watch unfold. I didn't really care about this show until episode 5, where the Mandalorian came in and we basically got a Mandalorian episode. This episode was amazing, but really presents a problem with this show. When the best episode of your show doesn't even have your main character or have anything to do with the main premise of the show, it kind of shows how Boba Fett and his mission weren't executed correctly. Episode 6 was also great, especially with Grogu and Luke Skywalker. Episode 7 brought the show to a solid finish, but I think the fact that episodes 5 and 6 took away from the main storyline removed the tension that was meant to be built up to that last episode. I think episodes 5 and 6, while they were amazing, really needed to happen on a season of The Mandalorian and not the book of Boba Fett.

The Originals (2013–2018)

Family is Power

[10/10 · 3 February 2022]

It's incredible to think that all of this came from a show like The Vampire Diaries. The Originals took the best parts of TVD and improved upon them. The writing is much more mature, the characters have depth, the stories are thrilling, and the teen drama vibe is tossed out for a more gothic one. I absolutely love The Originals. You need to watch seasons 1-4 of Vampire Diaries to understand the Originals. Once you make it through those, you will have the background knowledge to fully appreciate and understand this wonderful show. Highly recommend!

Ordinary Joe (2021–2022)

Interesting concept, but it became confusing upon execution

[8/10 · 25 January 2022]

I find the premise of this show intriguing. I love the idea of how your past choices effect the present, and showing the ripple effect of those choices is a really neat concept. Unfortunately, I was left very confused throughout most of this show. While there were only 3 different "lives" to follow, I was very confused by the differences between all three lives. I had to remember many different details about each character since there were many differences between the three storylines. This makes sense, but I think managing the differences between the storylines detracted from my enjoyment. I liked the different tints put on each storyline. The only downside is I felt the blue for the cop storyline was overdone, and it gave that storyline a very dreary mood when I don't think it was intended that way.

Ordinary Joe is an unusual case for a show. I don't think the show did much wrong, it just ended up not being as neat as I anticipated. I think it deserves a season 2 renewal, but I don't believe it will happen.

Dexter: New Blood (2021–2022)

Perfect until disappointing ending

[9/10 · 11 January 2022]

I was skeptical when I found out Dexter was being rebooted for a sequel series. I was pleasantly surprised with what started as a mature, well thought-out, and gripping first few episodes of Dexter: New Blood. I was entertained throughout most of the show. Then it all gets thrown away in the last episode with out-of-character decisions, weird choices by the writers, and an unsatisfying conclusion to a 15 year story. Ignoring the last episode I'd say this deserves a 10/10, but due to the decisions in the last episode I'd bump the show down to a 9/10.

Hawkeye (2021)

An overall decent Marvel series

[9/10 · 22 December 2021]

Hawkeye is really just a series to tide us over until some of Marvel's next big projects, like Spiderman & the new Dr. Strange movies come out. It's a very watchable show, but don't expect anything special with this project. The action scenes were well done, and I enjoy the characters and some of the in-universe tie-ins with the MCU. The show did feel a bit bait and switch, as it didn't really feel like Hawkeye was the main character. The series is saved by the appearance of Yelena in the latter half, as anytime she is on screen she steals the show. I'm probably going to forget this show, but for now I'll say it is an overall decent show.

What If...? (2021– )

Groundbreaking at its best, boring at its worst

[8/10 · 1 November 2021]

What if has its great episodes and its filler ones. I feel that the great episodes (4, 8, and 9) are what makes the show one of the coolest entries in the MCU. Unfortunately, the show also has some less than stellar episodes (1,6, and 7) that seem to answer questions that no one was asking. The Thor episode in particular seemed like a wasted opportunity to do something amazing. All in all, I feel that the good outweighs the bad, and I'm looking forward to season 2.

Squid Game (2021– )

Squid Game . . . TV's next obsession?

[9/10 · 14 October 2021]

When I first heard about Squid Game I thought it was really out there. After watching it, I still have that belief. I like the premise of Squid Game, and I think most of the show is pretty good. The games are fun, you learn to care about the players, and the setting is eerie. I did not really understand the whole organ harvesting side plot, and it seemed unnecessary. The twist at the end was pretty good, but relating everything back to betting on horses was not a good comparison. I'm excited to see if this show will return for another season.

Superman & Lois (2021–2024)

Amazing superhero series

[10/10 · 18 August 2021]

Superman & Lois is way better than it deserves to be! This show blew me away especially since it was on the CW. S&L feels way more mature than most of its Arrowverse counterparts. The writing is great, and the actors do a wonderful job with what they're given. Clark and Lois are probably my favorite Arrowverse couple. They're written like a real married couple who have chemistry, talk problems out, and don't say cringy one-liners like other couples in the Arrowverse. The characters were really fleshed out on this show. I already knew Superman was gonna be great, but the breakout character was definitely John Henry. I thought for sure he was going to be the main villain of this season, but they gave him a really interesting backstory of being from another Earth and having his family wiped out by an evil Superman. I loved watching him turn to good and fight alongside Superman. Lois was also handled very well. Lois is the strong female character we should have on every Arrowverse show. The show doesn't need to tell you she's a strong woman, they show it instead. Much better than "The suit is literal perfection. It will be . . . When it fits a woman" cringe from Batwoman. Jon and Jordan had a lot of brotherly love that was adorable. This show also didn't fall into the typical CW traps. There wasn't too much melodrama, no forced relationships, and no cringy writing. The fight scenes and VFX felt like blockbuster quality. It was like night and day watching Superman & Lois and then right after watching the Flash, which looked like Power Rangers by season 7. I am so impressed by Superman & Lois! I really hope the CW can keep up this amazing quality heading into newer seasons!

Loki (2021–2023)

Intriguing first season

[10/10 · 14 July 2021]

Loki jumpstarted a whole new era for the MCU. From the get-go we have the TVA, an agency that has a unique look that beautifully crosses a futuristic society with an 80s tech look. Owen Wilson does an amazing job portraying Mobius. I was truly rooting for the guy. I really liked the mystery aspect of this series. While I have a lot of questions about the series, I'm okay with that since I know Loki will be returning for a season 2. The highlight of the show was Kang the Conquerer introducing the multiverse. I'm very excited to see the possibilities the multiverse will offer!

Sex/Life (2021–2023)

OMG this is hot garbage

[1/10 · 8 July 2021]

I decided to watch Sex/Life since Sarah Shahi was the lead role. . . Worst idea of my life. This show glorifies and justifies cheating on your spouse. The ending had me cringing so hard. Just when you think Billie and Cooper get their marriage back on the right track, Billie decided to just keep on cheating with Brad and the show justifies it with "female empowerment". This show wants you to believe women are incredibly oppressed in marriage and that they should be allowed to go after their "true desires", even if that means cheating. Look, I am a sex positive person and I believe in everyone, including women, having their sexual needs met. . . But that alone does not justify cheating. There were other options for her. She could've left Cooper, or her and Cooper could've went to marriage counseling, or perhaps tried an open marriage. The glorification of cheating is just repulsive. It astounds me that Cooper would stay with Billie at the end. Billie treats him like garbage (she compares what Cooper and Trina did at the party to what her and Brad did behind everyone's backs - yikes!), and it's clear the marriage won't work for either person. I understand she wanted to have her family and have wild sex at the same time, but cheating on Cooper is not the way to "have it all". Brad is an absolute disaster of a character. For some reason, Netflix and others love to write these abusive, rude, disrespectful, and horrible men as misunderstood romantics. His awful behavior is somehow okay since he's good looking and has daddy issues. Give me a break.

I really feel sorry for women out in the world. This is supposed to be an empowering TV series for women to embrace their sexuality, and yet it really just glorifies cheating. Rather than displaying positive behaviors like having honest conversations about what you want sexually, or going to marriage counseling, or redefining a relationship, or even getting a divorce, Sex/Life thinks you should just go out and cheat. Sasha has a PhD in psychology, and even she fell for all of Brad's tricks. Again, how is this female empowerment?

Also the woman who decided her husband and kids were worth staying with due to seeing her ex boyfriend on Facebook become fat, bald, and old made me throw up in my mouth a little. This show is disgusting.