THE BLACK PHONE – Decent Ethan Hawke horror film from 2021. A sprinkle of everything – ghosts, psychic phenomena and murderous psychotic behavior. Based on the short story by Stephen King’s son, Joe Hill, it’s worth a view. The lead kid is quite good and perfect in the role. John liked it too. Cheers! Boyfriends/Girlfriends – 0.

BODKIN – I enjoy almost everything set in Ireland or Scotland and this show is no exception. Netflix’s 7-episode mystery/comedy series is quite entertaining. The lead actor, Siobhán Cullen, reminds me so much of Catríona Balfe from Outlander. They could be sisters, and I keep seeing Catríona in the role. Sit back, pour a wee dram and relish the ride! Cheers! Boyfriends/Girlfriends – 0.

THE GENTLEMEN – Delightful!! Murder, mayhem and a clandestine marijuana farm are afoot when an old English estate is inherited by the scrumptious Theo James. Written, directed and produced by Guy Ritchie, and loaded with talented actors including Giancarlo Esposito from Breaking Bad, it’s a smart, sexy romp and we’re along for the ride. Oh, and as Kelly says….it’s fun! Quality entertainment. Cheers! Boyfriends – 1; Girlfriends – 1.

THE REGIME – I don’t know what I think of this parody. I don’t think I like it very much. In fact, I’m sure I don’t like it very much despite it being chock full of top notch talent including one boyfriend. There are better things worthy of my viewing time. Cheers! Boyfriends – 1; Girlfriends – 0.

IRISH WISH – Lindsay Lohan stars in this romantic comedy set in Ireland, of course. RomCom’s are not my thing. I only watched because of the Irish locale and co-stars Ed Speleers and Alexander Vlahos…all three lovely to look at. As usual, this one was predictable and not very good. A few laughs. I did like the magical bit with the wish chair….”Saint Bridget will grant you what you need, not necessarily what you want!” Sláinte! Boyfriends – 2; Girlfriends – 0.

AMERICAN FICTION – Entertaining film providing insight into Black culture and “woke” syndrome. Jeffrey Wright portrays Monk, a frustrated writer, and Sterling K. Brown portrays his gay brother, Cliff. Both men are wonderful. Wright delivers a poignant performance and Brown exudes rebellious charm as their bond is tested and remains strong in spite of themselves. Based on the book Erasure by Percival Everett, the movie tells the story with honesty, humor and heartbreak. Mike and I both enjoyed the picture, despite the arbitrary ending. We are left to decide for ourselves how the circumstances resolve. Mike loves that. Me….not so much. Cheers! Boyfriends/Girlfriends – 0.

THE DIPLOMAT – Smart, sassy and fun! Keri Russell (The Americans) shines along with the diverse cast in this new NetFlix series. A few recognizable faces, but mostly unknown actors, turn in great performances in this fast-paced satire of political and personal angst, and the intersection of the two, with much of the story rooted in our current politics. Exceptional entertainment! Cheers!! Boyfriends – 0; Girlfriends – 1.