Tuesday, April 9, 2013

Series Review: Sherlock

"Sherlock" title card

Sherlock, produced by the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), is an on going television series first aired during the year 2010. The series presents a contemporary twist in Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes detective stories.

The show features Sherlock Holmes (Benedict Cumberbatch) and of course Dr. John Watson (Martin Freeman) in modern day England, the two investigate on cases that pique the attention of Sherlock using available modern research and investigative tools.

Sherlock, introducing himself to Dr. John Watson during the first episode


Technical Specs
Running Time: 90 minutes
Aspect Ratio: 1.78 : 1
Sound Mix: Dolby Digital
Printed Film Format: HDTV

Review

Cinematography: Innovative. If there is one word to describe the sheer genius that one is lucky to witness for 90 minutes in a single episode, it would be innovative. The camera shots were fantastic and different. Each shot told a story, gave a clue for the audience to decipher. They were most certainly neither typical nor boring. The directors also used the beautiful scenery that seems to be everywhere in England to their advantage by having the locations complement (or sometimes pleasantly contrast) the scene.

Editing: As a student who has experience in producing television shows and short films, I could - with confidence - say that editing complements direction. And for the case of BBC's Sherlock, the editors were able to complement the shots perfectly. The show was peppered with glorious effects that highlight certain things, not-so-typical cuts to show a change locations, and so and and so forth.

Production Design: The production design team successfully managed to perfectly blend the two important factors of the show. The old and classic charm of Sherlock Holmes, and the development of modern technology. They were also able to incorporate the things that marked Sherlock Holmes for who is, like his hat and smoking without appearing garish and ridiculous.

Cast: The cast was simply wonderful. I applaud Benedict Cumberbatch  and the rest of the cast for being able to bring Sherlock Holmes - and the people who surround him - to life for our television screens.

Rating: A spectacular 5 out of 5 stars 



Sunday, April 7, 2013

Book Review: The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight

The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight
by Jennifer Smith
A couple of weeks ago, with my academic requirements all put the rest, I finally found the time to pick up a book and catch up on me reading.

Sort of. The book was an ebook, so I couldn't exactly pick it up since it was on my laptop.

Anyway, from the moment I saw the cover, I knew it was a must read - at least for me. After all, I am the classic sap who'd like to believe that happy ever afters still exist in the 21st century.

The book follows around Hadley, a teenage girl who is supposed to fly to England for her father's wedding, but misses the plane by a few short minutes. While waiting for the next flight, she meets Oliver, a British college student who is coming back to England. I won't tell you what happens next though, because that's what makes the book so magical.

You know, aside from the fact that the story happened all in 24 hours.

Overall, I give the book 4 out of 5 stars. 

I loved it, loved it soooo much, however, there are bits that I wished weren't in the book - which made it a bit dragging. and I would have loved to know whatever happened to Oliver and Hadley when they both get back to New York.

Monday, April 1, 2013

Your Birth Number


While being generally unproductive on Facebook the other day, I repeatedly came across a post which instructed you on how to get your birth number - so, the bored freak that I am decided to try it out, and it came out with slightly surprising results. 




#2 - THE PEACEMAKER

2's are the born diplomats. They are aware of others' needs and moods and often think of others before themselves. Naturally analytical and very intuitive they don't like to be alone. Friendship and companionship is very important and can lead them to be successful in life, but on the other hand they'd rather be alone than in an uncomfortable relationship. Being naturally shy they should learn to boost their self-esteem and express themselves freely and seize the moment and not put things off.

So, that's mine. Go find out yours!