37/12

What does “Black Doves” mean?

Scenario

Helen embarks on a passionate affair with a man who has no idea what her secret identity is. When her lover falls victim to London’s dangerous criminal underworld, Helen’s employer calls in Sam to protect her. There’s a scene where the characters discuss their favorite Christmas movies. Neither of them mentions “Love, Actually,” the hugely popular Christmas movie. That’s probably because Keira Knightley stars in both films. Starring Graham Norton and guest stars: Cher/Keira Knightley/Michael Fassbender/Josh Brolin/Jalen Ngonda (2024).

I ask because I’m really not sure

There are scenes that come straight out of John Wick: Shoot ’em Up” where a pair of heroic souls take down a small army of villains. Other scenes have the dry wit of the best BBC comedies. Also a political drama where everyone in the British government is suspected of being spies or counter-spies or (I could be wrong) a spying Prime Minister. Add to the list a domestic drama, as well as a Christmas movie that is family-friendly and heartwarming. In fact, the series doesn’t do a terribly good job of being any of the above genres. I notice that there were two directors during the filming of the series; something that could explain its many personalities.

More red herrings

Even worse is the plot. It’s incredibly convoluted, convoluted to the point of complete confusion, confusing to the point of “I don’t care anymore, let’s get back to the kilings.” Everyone is looking for the videotape (Hitchcock’s McGuffin; the element that gives momentum to the action). If we knew why everyone wants it, I would have completely forgotten by the third episode. And by the sixth episode, when the ‘Why’ is answered, I was disappointed with his ‘nothing’. There are endless dead ends. Too many characters.

So, plot-wise, there’s nothing to recommend here

So we’re left with performances that were generally good. I’m a big fan of Keira Knightley and she’s at the center of things as a spy who seeks revenge for the murder of her lover. Sara Lancashire is coldly effective, witty and murderous as the spymaster to whom Knightley reports. But best of all is the always excellent Ben Whishaw as the assassin hired to help Knightley on her quest. Here’s a gay killer who has hidden his murderous pursuit from his lover and is now faced with a choice: home and hearth, rather than continuing his murderous ways. Finally, the last thirty minutes of the film.

Easily 3 hours too long

They’re unnecessary. I imagine they were kept to fill the story to six hours. Bottom Line? Too long and winding to make the most of your time.. "One Hundred Years of Solitude" is one of the biggest TV and streaming premieres this month. Check out our December calendar for more details!