House of Cards – Season 2

House of Cards - Season 2

If the first season of House of Cards made one thing clear it was that Francis and Claire Underwood (Kevin Spacey and Robin Wright) want to be at the top of the political foodchain. They are both predators who together set up their plan of attack and don’t hesitate to use any means necessary to achieve their goals. Criticism is something they don’t allow and opponents (whether political or in the media) have to play along or face the consequences of their lust for power personally. It was exactly the reason which made the first season of House of Cards so fascinating and compelling. Political allies were play things who could be swept aside without emotion if it meant an advantage for the Underwoods. Reporter Zoe Barnes (Kate Mara) knew to gain the trust of Francis, which made her a rising star in journalism because she always received the latest information straight from Capitol Hill.

As Netflix released the whole first season in one day it was possible for fans to devour a whole season in just a few days. The last episode left people hungry for more and since Valentine’s Day the fans have been able to enjoy 13 new episodes. With their ruthless methods Francis and Claire succeeded in creating many enemies. The question is whether they will be a threat to them in this second season. Continue reading

The Many Faces of… Kevin Spacey

Overview of the roles of Kevin Spacey picture

I started watching House of Cards this week (which I have to say is an awesome show) and I noticed that I hadn’t featured Kevin Spacey in this series yet. Time to look at the many roles in his career.

Kevin Spacey was born on July 26, 1959 in South Orange, New Jersey. He attended Northridge Military Academy. When he wen to Chatsworth High he acted in a stage production of The Sound of Music where he played Captain Georg von Trapp.He tried his hand at being a stand-up comedian, but also studied drama. He started his professional career in plays. During one of these plays he worked with Jack Lemmon, who became a mentor to him. He made the step into movies and became very successful. He earned an Oscar for his supporting role in The Usual Suspects in 1996 and in 2000 he picked up a second statue for his leading role in American Beauty. Movies he has been in include Glengarry Glen Ross, Se7en, L.A. Confidential, The Negotiator, Pay It Forward and Margin Call. Continue reading

Casino Jack (2010)

Real life stories can succesfully be used for comedies. It’s something which I Love You Philip Morris has already proved. Casino Jack is a comedy which is based on real events, in this case the story of Jack Abramoff, a superlobbyist. As a viewer you are introduced in his world, in which there don’t seem to be any boundaries and in which presents and envelopes with money are just ways to do business. Jack Abramoff is constantly on the edge of what is allowed and makes some decisions which push him over it. Continue reading