sandraskates Reviews

The U.S. and the Holocaust (2022)

Detailed series but drags at times

[5/10 · 22 September 2022]

Yes, it's another in-depth, detailed history from Ken Burns and crew.

But having each episode over 2 hours long really drags out. I watched it bite sized chunks and also found myself fast-forwarding at times. Peter Coyote's narration also drones on.

The narration outline, especially in the first episode, parallels immigration issues the USA is having today. Not sure if this emphasis was intentional or as the saying goes, "nothing ever changes."

There are a lot of still photos and videos, taken by the German soldiers, that will likely be new to anyone viewing the documentary.

The testimony from Eva Geiringer in episode 3 about camp conditions will turn your stomach.

Emergency!: Fools (1974) Season 3, Episode 17

Sherman fans will enjoy this episode

[8/10 · 13 September 2022]

Bobby Sherman was a teenybopper idol with a string of chart hits in the 70s. This episode showcases what a good actor Bobby Sherman really was; a much better actor than singer (I always thought his singing was a bit flat).

As the stuck-up intern, his facial expressions and barking of medical orders from the bay station really capture the impression of an "I'm superior to you" attitude toward Gage and DeSoto. It's really too bad Sherman stopped acting after this show.

Sherman fans will enjoy this trip down memory lane.

The rescue segments are decent and the refinery fire offers good effects and engaging tension.

The Andy Griffith Show: The Keeper of the Flame (1962) Season 2, Episode 14

Don Knotts at his funniest

[10/10 · 19 October 2020]

Don Knotts is at his funniest in this episode. Must have been some smooth moonshine if it took him a whole ladle-full before the comedic faces and loose body poses kick in. A good storyline and Don's wonderful acting will have you laughing out loud.

The Andy Griffith Show: The Song Festers (1964) Season 4, Episode 20

Funny and poignant

[9/10 · 20 September 2020]

Just about anyone can relate to the dashed ego of Barney as we've all lost out on something we've badly wanted at least once - be it a job, lead roll, sport contest, etc. And although Gomer is usually portrayed as being naive, he was savvy enough to understand just how much the lead singing role meant to Barney. This episode has both funny moments courtesy of Barney, and poignant moments courtesy of Gomer. Boo to the choir director that makes Andy do the dirty work of telling Barney he will not lead.