DRAMA. “Imperfect Women.” / “The Madison.” / “Industry.”

“Imperfect Women” (Apple TV+) drama series. The story is about a devastating crime that has an impact on a decades-long friendship, based on Araminta Hall's 2020 novel. 

       First of all and I say it again, why the dim lighting? Most U.S.-made movies and TV series insist on this very annoying style. Very annoying. It was hard to finish this series, not because of an edge-of-your-seat suspense. But because my eyes (eyeglasses and all) were struggling to see what's going on, visually.

       Topbilled by the trio of exemplary actresses Elisabeth Moss, Kerry Washington, and Kate Mara, and supported by Joel Kinnaman and Corey Stoll, the only thing doing good in this stagnant series are the performers.

       The middling storytelling that doesn't seem to push along and the repetitive arguments would have sufficed in 4 episodes, not eight. I also question why a boss of a supposedly NGO organization (Ms Washington's Eleanor) gets to dress in obviously signature clothes. 🎥💻📽

“The Madison” (Paramount+) neo-Western drama, created by Taylor Sheridan. The series follows the Clyburn family, originally from New York City, who relocate to the Madison River valley of southwest Montana for emotional recovery following a major life-changing tragedy that both shocked and permanently changed the Clyburn family. 

       First, I don't know why this is categorized as neo-Western. Second, what was Mr Sheridan trying to prove? A psychosomatic turn with daytime soap confection as a side dish? Feels like a typical Lifetime offering.

       To those who are used to Taylor's high-octane action and hangdog mojo, “The Madison” is a huge disappointment. But Michelle Pfeiffer as the grieving widow Stacy Clyburn is into it, believably compelling--as long as the moping ended soon. 🎥💻📽

“Industry” (HBO) Season 1, financial thriller drama. The show follows the personal and professional lives of a group of young graduates who join Pierpoint & Co, a prestigious investment bank in London.

       On Rotten Tomatoes, the first series holds an approval rating of 76 percent, with praises for “sharp writing” and ensemble performance. I don’t question those. But I had to give this up due to my annoyance of the bloated sexual exhibitionism, which doesn't contribute to the overall premise, I believe. What's the point? 🎥💻📽