Fargo

[NormanD]

The tv series isn't an adaptation of the Coen Brothers movie, not at all. It has the cops and the cold, the small town and the small town loser, and it has Billy Bob Thornton as the most evil character this side of Anton Chigurh. It's a story in its own right, with the occasional flash of something that reminds you of a Coen Bros connection. Or perhaps you merely dreamt it.

Next Sunday will be the last episode (of ten) and I haven't a clue how it will resolve. UK's Martin Freeman - our cuddly Martin Freeman - has shaped up to be a cold and heartless piece of shit (you see how it's hooked me?). A passing shot of a bear trap in a box in his basement suggests a possible ending. That, and the ice, perhaps. Maybe that'll be the wood chipper.

The series is mainly (or solely?) written by Noah Hawley, and he's done a superb job. Anyone who's able to leave you hanging for the next episode is blessed with a real skill.

Last night, the first main scene - ten minutes or so - strung together like a 100 minute thriller. If you hadn't even seen a single episode before, it could have drawn you in to the dance with the devil.

[NormanD]

I give nothing away here: the cutest smile from the nastiest killer, Lorne ("as in Bonanza") Malvo.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YwLrszpNrH4