17
votes
So, I've just finished Netflix's Maniac
Holy shit. Now that is what I call cinema. Somebody give Jonah Hill an Oscar already. The amount of times I felt a deep connection to his character is reaching uncomfortable. The only thing that felt like “too much” was Snorri, but luckily that didn't last long. Emma Stone was so human in this. Rome Kanda and Justin Theroux have amazing comedic moments.
Fucking 10/10. Absolute recommendation.
I liked Snorri as deliberately over the top - because he was acting as though he was acting, and the computer (which was on the fritz) wasn't that great at forcing him to think like an Icelandic alien lover.
I like over the top acting as much as the next guy, but Snorri felt outright Adam-Sandler-eqsue. And I mean “Jack and Jill” Adam Sandler, not “Funny People” Adam Sandler. But I do like your explanation that Gertie's malfunctions have caused that, so that's my headcanon how.
I mean, I don't know about the deeper, cultural significance of that role but I didn't laugh that hard at a character in a TV show in years! It's just in contrast to everything else in that show, it hit me hard.
Should I preemptively tag this with
spoilerin case people start talking about the show in more depth? I have yet to see it but it's on my watch list so would rather not accidentally read anything that ruins a major plot point for me. :PI don't mind, really. If you feel more secure that way.
KK... I'll tag it just in case. :)
You mention Rome Kanda and Justin Theroux, and so I just absolutely have to give a shout out to Sonoya Mizuno as well! She looked and felt like an entirely unique character - I can't think of any show or even movie with a character quite like hers.
Fun easter egg about her... Netflix likes to make social media profiles of the characters, and add details to characters that weren't brought up in the show. On "her" instagram the character reveals she's afraid to go outside specifically because of a fear of the sky. Within the show, her phobia is only briefly mentioned by Mantleray
Does the series change at all past the first episode? I watched episode one but wasn't really interested after that, but I might try episode two if it's in some way different.
I don't actually remember the first episode, but every episode is different from the next. Definitely continue watching, it's the best show of the year in my opinion.
First episode is weirdly slow and boring compared to the rest. It escalates quickly
I would say, watch another couple of episodes. If you dislike those, I guess it's mostly safe for you to abandon the show.
Yes, it changes a lot.
I keep seeing this pop up as a recommendation in Netflix, but I haven't watched it yet - seems like it gets pretty mixed reviews from people I've talked to. I suppose I need to watch one or two episodes and give it a shot now.
I felt like the series as a whole was worth watching, but it's also worth noting the last 2-3 episodes seemed pretty weak in comparison to the opening.
Great series! I gave it a shot after seeing Justin Theroux's name on IMDB. I've been a fan of him ever since The Leftovers and he was amazing in Maniac as Dr. Mantleray.