Thursday, November 26, 2020

TV Series: Almost Paradise

When hypertension forces ex-DEA agent Alex Walker into early retirement, he decides to retire to the tranquil, unspoiled, picturesque beach he visited years ago. He arrives with fond memories that are rudely dashed when he finds dozens of luxury resorts and hordes of horrible, pampered, and demanding rich tourists despoiling the once-pristine location. Even worse, this corner of paradise has become a home and a haven to the rich and famous criminals of the world, conducting their nefarious forms of business as usual. Despite his best efforts to stay out of trouble, he is inexorably pulled back into the dark underbelly of crime. Welcome to Almost Paradise.


This series should not actually work, but it does. Here's why - the scripts are simple but interesting, the plots aren't too heavy, there is no PC/woke stuff forced down your throat, and it is pure escapism. Christian Kane as the lead (now the owner of a run-down gift shop on the island) is a bit manic, disheveled and always looks surprised, but he's perfect for the role and he possibly does his own stunts. Samantha Richelle as the detective who never wants his help is drop-dead gorgeous, kicks ass with the best of them, and heads up a colorful if cliched cast of characters. But, as I said, it all comes together and the whole series so far offers something different in a unique location (Cebu, Philippines). Expect some formulaic plots but you will always be entertained. And isn't that the point? 5/5

 

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