Jay Leal Blog
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All Articles 〰️
Roy Family Dynamics: Succession “Church and State” Review
Diving into complex dynamics of the Roy family in the penultimate episode of Succession.
Succession Deep Dive: Season 4 Episode 8, ‘America Decides’
Intriguing dynamics and consequences among the Roy siblings during election night make for a historically good episode of TV.
Gladiator Review: Gladiator 2 is Happening, Let's Look Back at the Original
Examining the performances of the lead actors, the characters they play, and how the movie has stood the test of time 23 years after its release.
Beau is Afraid Review: Beau is Relentless
The meaning behind this perplexing film. Discover the dark and disturbing world of Beau is Afraid, a psychological odyssey that will leave you questioning reality.
Top 5 Sopranos Podcasts You Should Listen to in 2023
The Sopranos still captivates audiences years after its finale. Dive into the world of the show with these top-rated Sopranos podcasts.
Power & Pitfalls of Self-Reflection: Lessons from The Sopranos
The Sopranos, and its portrayal of the power of therapy, self-reflection, and moral choices. Learn more about its central themes and lasting impact.
[Spoilers] The Whale: A Heart Wrenching Movie About Reckoning With What Matters Most
The Whale movie starring Brendan Fraser & directed by Darren Aronofsky is Charlie's journey to reconnect with his daughter while battling an eating disorder.
Best 17 Limited Series Ranked
Discover the 17 best limited series of all time, including The Night Of, Chernobyl, I May Destroy You, and more. Plus, the best protagonists, antagonists, side characters.
Action Bronson Carhartt Connection
Bronson's personal style and aesthetic have made him one of the most fascinating and entertaining artists of the generation.
An Analysis of the Role of Violence in "The Sopranos”
Violence in the Sopranos as a plot device & commentary on larger themes adds tension & depth to the story & raises big questions about power & morality.
Analyzing The Banshees of Inisherin Through One Scene
In The Banshees of Inisherin, the dynamic between Siobhan and Dominic is both awkward and hilarious, but also tinged with sadness.
The Best Shows of 2022
Looking for some new shows to watch? Here’s my top 10 list (plus honorable mentions) of the best from 2022…
Explore the Wonders of Magical Realism: A Guide to the Genre
Learn about magical and fantastical realism, two genre that blend elements of fantasy and the supernatural with realism. Explore the difference between the two and discover how they allow for unique and compelling storytelling.
Why Writing is Important in Television and Film Production
Discover the vital role that writing plays in the creation of successful television shows and movies. From driving the emotional core of the story to establishing the rules of the world, a well-written script is essential.
Three Songs that Show Why Lykke Li is the Queen of Elegy Flows
Lykke Li has a diverse range of styles, including alternative rock and experimental indie, but it’s in her sad-flow songs that she hovers in uncharted airspace. Some of her most notable tracks for me in this style include No Hotel, Unrequited Love, and Tonight.
Jessie Buckley, Claire Foy, Entire Cast Devastate with the Dialogue in Women Talking
Jessie Buckley, Claire Foy, & Sarah Polley deliver a devastating & meaningful cinematic experience in Women Talking.
Coronado Film Festival Movie Review: Juniper
I attended the Coronado Film Festival in 2022. Here’s my review of the movie, Juniper starring Charlotte Rampling.
The House of Dragons Series Brought Back HBO Sundays
House of Dragons series, S1 just wrapped, but it brought back the event that is Sunday night HBO viewing.
What is Better Call Saul’s Meaning?
When you boil it down Better Call Saul has one simple theme: good behavior vs bad behavior and the repercussions of both.
the mechanics of incarceration and one-shot masterpiece on display in episode 1 of adolescence. I review it here