StephenTX

In fairness I'm not selecting a star rating for this film so as not to influence the user "grade" considering I didn't finish watching; I invested thirty-five or so minutes (IMO star ratings should generally be given when a film is watched in its entirety). The budget appeared to be in place and the production looked nice, but the writing! And, as a result, the acting was less than good or convincing. The dialogue was unnatural and seemed to be solely expository for us viewers. My eyes were rolling within minutes. I decided early on that another 90 minutes were probably not worth the time. But, perhaps it did turn into something worthwhile....

Some may feel prior to viewing Sam & Kate that the casting of film legends Dustin Hoffman and Sissy Spacek's adult children is a gimmick to garner publicity for the film, and of course it likely was an intended angle. However, Jake Hoffman and Schuyler Fisk are accomplished actors in their own right so the on-screen interactions are very organic and natural and in no way a distraction. One comment I've read is that Schuyler is such a natural, bright light of a presence here and I agree we should see more from her on screen. The story itself is more dramatic than the marketing would lead you to believe, which is so often the case. But the storytelling is first-rate and moves along nicely with some unexpected character developments, even though Dustin's arc is fairly predictable from the start. Spacek has the strongest and most interesting material in my opinion and she performs with her customary charm and understated artistry. It's been a real treat to see some of her later work finally pair her with other film heavyweights such as Robert Duvall, Robert Redford, and now Dustin Hoffman. Overall, a mostly dramatic film with strong and likeable performances carrying the day.

What's with all this boring talk. Maybe you are all slow. Sissy Spacek, J. K. Simmons? It's a master acting class. Roger Ebert said many years ago reviewing a movie, maybe it's you that is slow.

I'll share that Sissy Spacek is my favorite actress and it was such a joy to see her in a leading performance and show us all why she is so brilliant at what she does. So I could not look away at all. Never bored, but maybe those without history of this legend may not appreciate.

And besides, I thought the show was great. Sorry we'll never know the outcome of loose ends we were given. No doubt they expected a second season.