February Reviews: Movies and TV Shows
This February, we’ve got a lineup of new period dramas, TV favorites, romances, and more. Here’s our latest feature, Reviews of the Month, where we’ll cover both quick reviews and more detailed standalone reviews of your favorite movies and TV shows. Our full reviews can always be found as separate articles. Enjoy reading through our curated recommendations!
Scroll down to read our reviews or click on the titles below to jump to the ones that interest you.
Movie & TV Reviews:
– A Suitable Boy (Period Drama, Political Drama)
– The Baker and the Beauty (Rom-Com, Dramedy)
– The English Game (Period Drama)
– Enola Holmes (Adventure, Period Drama, Mystery, Teen Romance)
– The Extraordinary Journey of the Fakir (Romance, Adventure, Dramedy)
– The Farewell (Dramedy)
– Hamilton (Historical, Musical, Biography)
– Judy (Biography, Drama)
– Madam Secretary (Political Drama, Romance, Spy Drama)
– Mulan (Action, Adventure, Period Drama)
– Saved by the Bell (Comedy, Romance, Teen)
– WandaVision (Comedy, Action, Adventure, Drama, Romance, Fantasy)
– Wonder Woman 1984 (Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Romance)
– Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist (Dramedy, Romance, Fantasy, Musical)
Full Movie and TV Reviews:
– Modern Persuasion: A Pleasant but Disappointing Adaptation (Rom-Com)
– A Discovery of Witches Season 2: Romantic and Captivating (Paranormal Romance, Fantasy Romance, Time Travel, Contemporary Fantasy)
– Bridgerton: A Period Drama Paving the Way for Future Romance Adaptations (Romantic Period Drama)
Reviews of the Month
REVIEW ONE: A Suitable Boy (2020)
Review by Amber:
Andrew Davies, known for Pride and Prejudice and Sanditon, adapts Vikram Seth’s novel into a beautiful period drama directed by Mira Nair. Set in post-independence India, it’s a mix of political drama and romantic tale, focusing on four intertwined families as a mother seeks a suitable match for her independent daughter. Despite some criticisms about historical accuracy concerning religion, the miniseries is a captivating piece of entertainment with an all-Indian cast, vibrant costumes, and brilliant cinematography.
Content Note: TV-14
Where to Watch: Stream on Acorn TV
REVIEW TWO: The Baker and the Beauty (2020)
Review by Autumn:
Based on an Israeli rom-com, this show combines family drama and romantic comedy, following Daniel, a baker who meets a superstar, Noa Hamilton, leading to a culture clash. Though canceled after one season, it offers a heartwarming experience with charming family dynamics.
Content Note: TV-14
Where to Watch: Available for purchase on Digital platforms
REVIEW THREE: The English Game (2020)
Review by Autumn:
From the creator of Downton Abbey, this series explores the fictionalized true story of two footballers who revolutionize the sport by playing professionally in 19th-century England. It blends sports drama with class struggles and romance, making it an engaging watch.
Content Note: TV-14
Where to Watch: Netflix
REVIEW FOUR: Enola Holmes (2020)
Review by Amber:
Following the adventures of Sherlock Holmes’ younger sister, Enola, this movie is filled with British period charm. While searching for her missing mother, Enola outsmarts her famous brother and forms a bond with a young lord. The strong cast, led by Millie Bobbie Brown, ensures a delightful viewing experience.
Content Note: PG-13
Where to Watch: Netflix
REVIEW FIVE: The Extraordinary Journey of the Fakir (2018)
Review by Autumn:
This whimsical film stars Dhanush as a street magician from Mumbai who embarks on a journey to find his father, encountering romance and adventure along the way. While somewhat idealistic, it’s a feel-good movie addressing themes like immigration and poverty through a romantic lens.
Content Note: PG-13
Where to Watch: Prime Video and Hoopla
REVIEW SIX: The Farewell (2019)
Review by Amber:
A touching story based on director Lulu Wang’s life, this film follows a Chinese family who, upon learning their grandmother has a short time to live, decide to keep it a secret while they all gather under the guise of a wedding. Awkwafina’s Golden Globe-winning performance drives this heartfelt tale.
Content Note: PG
Where to Watch: Prime Video and Kanopy
REVIEW SEVEN: Hamilton (2020)
Review by Amber:
Lin-Manuel Miranda’s groundbreaking musical captures the story of Alexander Hamilton with a mix of history and contemporary themes. The Broadway-recorded version on Disney+ maintains its magic, with standout performances from the cast and unforgettable songs.
Content Note: PG-13
Where to Watch: Disney+
REVIEW EIGHT: Judy (2019)
Review by Amber:
Renée Zellweger delivers an Academy Award-winning performance as Judy Garland in this biographical drama, highlighting the final days of Garland’s life. Emotional and moving, the film is a tribute to an iconic actress.
Content Note: PG-13
Where to Watch: Prime Video, Epix, and Hulu
REVIEW NINE: Madam Secretary (2014-2019)
Review by Autumn:
Revolving around newly-appointed Secretary of State Elizabeth McCord, this series mixes political intrigue, espionage, and romance. Available to stream in its entirety, it’s lauded for its realistic stakes and strong central love story.
Content Note: TV-PG
Where to Watch: Netflix, CBS All Access
REVIEW TEN: Mulan (2020)
Review by Autumn:
This live-action remake boasts stunning visuals and compelling performances, even if it misses some of the magical elements of the original animated film. Yifei Liu stands out as Mulan in this historical fantasy centered on themes of family and honor.
Content Note: PG-13
Where to Watch: Disney+
REVIEW ELEVEN: Saved by the Bell (2020)
Review by Amber:
The reboot brings a fresh satirical take on the original, following new students at Bayside High. While incorporating ‘90s nostalgia, it tackles contemporary issues and offers a surprisingly engaging continuation with returning characters.
Content Note: TV-14
Where to Watch: Peacock
REVIEW TWELVE: WandaVision (2021)
Review by Amber:
The show blends romance with mystery, following Wanda and Vision in a sitcom-like setting that evolves into something far more complex. Elizabeth Olsen and Paul Bettany excel in their roles, and the intriguing storyline keeps viewers guessing.
Content Note: TV-PG/TV-14
Where to Watch: Disney+
REVIEW THIRTEEN: Wonder Woman 1984 (2020)
Review by Amber:
Set decades after the first movie, Diana faces a new enemy in the form of Maxwell Lord. Though the sequel may not live up to its predecessor, it offers entertaining action sequences, ‘80s throwbacks, and a compelling performance by Gal Gadot.
Content Note: PG-13
Where to Watch: In theaters and returning to HBO Max in the future
REVIEW FOURTEEN: Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist (2020)
Review by Amber:
This emotional and fun series follows Zoey, who discovers she can hear people’s innermost thoughts through song. The show balances catchy pop music, family drama, and light romance, making it a feel-good watch.
Content Note: TV-14
Where to Watch: Hulu and Peacock
Have you seen any of these movies or shows? What do you think of our reviews? Let’s discuss below.
