Eye in the Sky (2015)

This is a sleek modern intense war thriller. War has changed in the modern era. There is arguably no war in the film. But there is military activity. Our soldiers may not be on the ground, but there is a profound presence around the world with the new usage of drones. The technology is incredible clear and precise. And this film is thought provoking. It does its best to be unbiased, presenting and defending vigorously each side of the argument, exploring multiple issues regarding drones. War thrillers are always in the moment, and that is how they build intensity. But this movie is intense because it actually drags out the drama. We are forced to constantly wait and delay because that is how war is now. There are legal issues, political issues and a whole chain of command that must be consulted--and we see it all. 

Need For Speed (2014)

It's like watching a video game, except you're deprived of the joy of holding the controller in your hands.  So actually, it's like watching other people play video games.  Of course, people do that but I just do not get it.  The movie is bound to face comparison to the closest thing to it: Fast and Furious.  But this movie is missing the fun heist element.  Aaron Paul is probably the only redeeming quality in the movie.  I would say that his talents are wasted here on a flat character that is more or less a rip-off of his righteous, conscious-ridden, act-without-thinking Jesse Pinkman.  In the run up to the culminating race, the film actually plays out as a road trip movie across the country in a fancy car.  But much like real road trips, the car ride is boring without laughs or scenery.  

Breaking Bad (2008-13)

I have finally finished Breaking Bad and it was certainly worth all the hype.  This was indisputably one of the best shows ever created.  It's so good that there is a Spanish language remake that has also found success.  All of the acting was superb--not just Emmy winners Bryan Cranston, Anna Gunn, and Aaron Paul, but everyone including the supporting cast and guest actors.  All of them are strong Emmy contenders.  But what makes this show so great?  It's the writing.  The plot is brilliant.  A high school chemistry teacher is diagnosed with cancer, and turns to cooking meth to pay his medical bills and support his family.  Walter White is a smart man who takes pride in his work.  Throughout the five seasons, Walter hatches intricately woven plans to achieve his goals and his been a joy watching them unfold slowly, deliberately, and perfectly.

In its final season, Breaking Bad really went above and beyond.  Every character (even those you might have since forgotten about) gets to wrap up his/her story line.  All loose ends are tied up and each person is given a satisfying ending.  Now, we have the spin-off Better Call Saul to look forward to.