What are you watching this holiday season?
I have a confession to make. I haven’t been reading much of late. It has been me, AppleTV+, and/or Netflix! Here are some of my favorites:
Shantaram (Apple TV+): Everyone loves a story of redemption, and although many complained that this was a long series (the book was a tome), I enjoyed the story’s complexity. I don’t think this kind of hero’s journey can be told quickly – it needs to drag you in slowly and take the viewer on a journey of discovery. Shantaram has a great cast of characters and incredible scenery. Based on the book by Gregory David Roberts (2003), the basic storyline is about an escaped convict who does a disappearing act on the streets of Bombay. He ends up working as a medic and faces extreme poverty and some shady characters. I read that some scenes were actually shot in Melbourne and Bangkok due to Covid-19 restrictions – yet the street life was so real and compelling I could almost smell and hear the sights and sounds of India in my living room. There’s a lot of wheeling, dealing, and running away from the bad guys. You also didn’t always know who the “bad guys” are! He lands in Afghanistan, making a few unsavory alliances to outwit the KGB. Yes, the series is long – but there is no shortage of action, and at times it gets a bit preachy – but hey, it’s the holidays, so a bit of a moral lesson can’t be too much of a bad thing as we contemplate the year that was.
In Need of A History Fix?
I am fascinated by history – whether it’s a book, documentary series, or movie. Thanks to Netflix there is quite a lot to binge on:
Vikings are my thing! The first Vikings series on Netflix had me hooked a few years back (there were six seasons). It told the story of Ragnar Lothbrok, the Viking hero – and let me tell you, this guy was a real badass in every sense of the word! I recently watched the Vikings Valhalla series – taking place 100 years later (a continuation of the first series). It’s really good – packed with drama, conflict, and the day’s politics! It is a tad violent in parts, so not for those who are a bit sensitive, but really good casting and a storyline that keeps you guessing. [I wonder how the ways of the Vikings could relate to the business world? Something to think about when I am back in the office next year – an idea that might be worth an article.]
I also got stuck into The King, a Netflix movie. It’s a period piece and truly epic in every sense. I love movies where you realize that nothing was spared in reflecting the history of that time from a visual point of view. The film is about the rise of Henry V and how he needs to find a way to navigate the complexities of his position after his father’s death. It’s big on human drama – and there is a lot of bloodsheds, deceit, and of course, a love story.
I still have a list of recommendations from friends and family regarding what to watch; I’ll keep you posted. I plan on doing some reading over the next week or two – unless I get distracted by a Viking (movie) or two.
Happy Watching!
Gary
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