Monsieur Spade

"3.25⭐️ Clive Owen as jaded, weary, and extremely quippy Sam Spade, “retired” in the post WWII French countryside. There’s a moody slightly gothic, cryptic mystery, a surprisingly macabre crime (reminding me very much of a show I recently reviewed), and the snappiest repartee probably since the likes of Bogie. This is an AMC series, however the very ambient European setting and serious, intellectual tone did have me intrigued and wondering if it was produced for Masterpiece Theater .. if not for the many gratuitous shots of Clive’s butt 🍑 So what’s not to love? Unfortunately, after an excellent first episode, it just loses steam, becoming increasingly convoluted with each episode due to a highly muddled plot and uncomfortably odd and unbelievable characters. Rather than the enigmatic slow-burn I thought it would be, the show moves ploddingly along straight into the zone of tedium. For some reason I did keep going but by the end I honestly didn’t care much anymore .. which was actually a good thing because I found the conclusion abrupt, much too convenient and lacking. This is a remarkably well made show though and my rating reflects that. I enjoyed Clive’s performance, the witty dialogue, beautiful old stone French country buildings, cobbled streets and vineyards, overall the setting, atmosphere and production. However, it could, and should have been better. There’s definitely an audience I’m sure. It’s just not me. "

"Well done, stylish. Well acted ."

"I really, really gave this my best shot because I LOVE Clive Owen. The Knick was my favorite. I’ll try again later 🥲"