I don’t know about you but the tyranny of the Amazon and Netflix algorithm has left me nearly cancelling my Direct Debit every time I log on. If it wasn’t for strong representations from my children, I would definitely cancel Netflix. These days I find myself paying for more contemporary movies than relying on the free stuff.
If a TV Series carries the term ‘Amazon Original’ I usually never bother looking, particularly at the American stuff. This week I found a pearl amongst the gravel though - in Korean. If you haven’t watched ‘May I help you’ on Amazon Prime, you should.
The show’s unique premise intertwines the themes of life, death, and the supernatural in a narrative that is both moving and intriguing. It has a plot that holds you and characters that enchant you. Top of the bill is actress Lee Nye-Ri (popularly known as Hyeri) who plays Baek Dong-Joo, a funeral director with the supernatural ability to communicate with the dead.
The other thing about this show is the food. I want to move to South Korea or Japan and learn to cook. I want to learn how to make Kimchi and eat it every day.
I literally cried at each episode of ‘May I help you’. The pathos of the show lies in its tender portrayal of grief and the solace found in helping souls find peace. It makes you want to hug an undertaker!
All Ramen is not the same
I’ve warmed to Jay Rayner since the days I called him a ‘flatulent oaf’ for insulting the Black Country’s Desperate Dan Pies. Last month I took his advice and travelled to Wales to eat.
The best eating experience I have ever had was in a very expensive Japanese restaurant in London called The Araki. The second best may well be a not-very-expensive Ramen bar in Cardiff. Three of us visited the place.
I’m literally salivating thinking about my return to this place. Like a TV show makes me want to travel to Korea, this restaurant makes me want to learn everything about Ramen.
The Rule of Law and the Politics of Policing
The delicate balance between political oversight and police independence is under national scrutiny. I’ve been criticised by Conservative MPs for putting undue influence on the Metropolitan Police. Though I disagree with their claims I am also duty-bound to Lady Brittan to put a matter right, but that, as they say, is another story.
As a new member of the House of Lords, I have been steadfast in a commitment to ensuring that the Metropolitan Police implements the reforms recommended by the Henriques report, particularly those concerning the use of arrest and search warrants.
Despite assurances from Sir Mark Rowley, I regret to inform you that my efforts to follow up on these reforms have been met with a disappointing lack of engagement.
Despite this, the principle of operational independence within our police force is vital. It is considered a cornerstone of a fair and just society. However, it appears that Home Secretary Suella Braverman does not share this view.
Her recent public criticism of Sir Mark Rowley's leadership not only undermines his position but also the integrity of the police. If the Home Secretary believes that the Commissioner is not fulfilling his duties, it is within her power to take action. The same can be said for the Prime Minister regarding the Home Secretary's position.
As we approach a weekend fraught with potential for unrest, it is clear that the Home Secretary's actions have complicated the situation. Her behaviour has made the policing of these demonstrations far more challenging. It is also a political gift to Labour, yet a disaster for public confidence in our policing.
Leadership demands decisiveness. It is time for those in power to demonstrate this. Either the Home Secretary should sack the commissioner she appointed or back him. And the Prime Minister should either back the Home Secretary he appointed or sack her.
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Watching
Obviously it’s May I Help you.
Reading
The text of the Kings Speech. Here for the political nerds!
King Charles III's speech, marking the State Opening of Parliament, outlined 21 pieces of legislation set by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's government. The speech, delivered on 7 November, initiated a series of debates in the House of Lords.
The legislation covered a range of topics, including updates to the UK's data protection laws post-Brexit, energy security, net zero targets, and the advancement of a Media Bill that addresses the regulation of streaming services and the investment in British content.
This year's King's Speech is particularly notable as it is the first delivered by King Charles III and the first King's Speech (delivered in person) since 1950, succeeding the tradition carried by Queen Elizabeth II.
And this piece from Charles Arthur is right on the money!
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Great What's App piece! And I will watch only the second Korean film I'll have ever seen...thanks, Tom