Lessons In Chemistry
Brie Larson’s first major television role in more than a decade is a reminder of why she is one of the most compelling actors of her generation.
Based on Bonnie Garmus’ critically acclaimed, blockbuster
2022 novel of the same name, Lessons In Chemistry is an eight-part period drama that provides a fabulous showcase for the now 34 year old.
She plays Elizabeth Zott, a laboratory assistant at Hastings Research Institute who clearly has ambitions above “making excellent coffee for mediocre scientists”.
While her aminos team tries to persuade her to take part in the Miss Hastings pageant, she waits until they leave for the day to conduct her own experiments.
However, when Elizabeth is caught “borrowing” resources from the brilliant, but eccentric and reclusive,
(and his chunky sweaters) drawn into the world (and an intense and passionate relationship) of enigmatic writer Catherine Tramell (Stone), when she becomes the chief suspect in the brutal murder of a wealthy rocky star.
49. There’s Something About Mary (R16, 1998, Disney+)
Cameron Diaz, Ben Stiller and Matt Dillon star in this hilarious 1998 gross-out romantic comedy about a man who gets a chance to reunite with his dream girl from high school.
Dr Calvin Evans (Lewis Pullman), she is advised to “show a little more of the Hastings spirit”.
With the spark between its two leads and pitch-perfect production and costume design, it is hard not to draw comparisons between Lessons and the magnificent Masters Of Sex.
Showrunner Lee
Eisenberg (Jury Duty, WeCrashed) has done a terrific job of distilling the source novel’s themes and characters, while also creating an evocative sense of space and place.
But while there are plenty of one-liners and other memorable dialogue, it is the story’s twists and turns that will keep you hooked.
Just when you think you’ve got the narrative pegged, it offers up another shock or surprise. With tension that crackles and slick visuals that gel brilliantly, this is an object lesson in how to make addictive television.
Filled with magnificent one-liners and truly memorable set-pieces that still raise a laugh and resonate today.
“Sensational, sicko fun,” wrote Rolling Stone’s Peter Travers.
33. The Exorcist
(R16, 1973, iTunes, YouTube, AroVision, Academy OnDemand)
Even half-a-century on, William Friedkin’s religious horror still packs a dramatic punch, largely thanks to committed performances by Max Von Sydow and Linda Blair, showstopping set-pieces and Mike Oldfield’s super spooky score. “(It’s) The movie ... which, for one generation, remains one of the scariest experiences of their lives,” wrote The New York Daily News’ Jack Mathews.