Disturbing yet enthralling

It's hard to see any effort in the film. There's no comedy to speak of, no real drama and, worst of all.

If you like to be scared, if you like to laugh, and if you like to learn a thing or two at the movies, this absolutely cannot be missed.

Strong acting helps the film overcome an uncertain premise and create characters that hold our attention absolutely.

Maupin's stories always repelled me because their mushy-squishy soft center. But it took these TV movies to crystallize what was really at the core of the skin-crawling creeped-out feeling I got watching.It's THIS: This Maupin doesn't know women. I'll bet long money that he never had a girlfriend or any kind of intimate relationship with a real, live female.These "women" are fantasy figures---wish-fulfillment confections created by someone who actually wrote stories about two gay guys, and then turned one of them into a girl as a way to reach a wider market, and wider appeal = $$$. Nothing actually wrong with that, but it must be done RIGHT; like Cole Porter, say, or Noel Coward.Adding to the creepiness is the arrested-development tone these stories have: there's a distinct undergraduate romanticism here---coming from a middle-aged man, that's real SPOOKY.TWO Stars for its insight into the pathology of a bad writer.

After watching with great pleasure the original Tales of the City, i delved with excitement into this continuation story of the 28 Barbary residents. However with some disappointment i discovered that a less adventurous director and some unfortunate cast replacements has stolen some of the magic.Now don't get me wrong, it is still a fun and well written metro-sexual adventure in the heart of Sanfrancisco, and with exceptional performers Dukakis and Linney returning it keeps the spark burning bright. The new addition of Paul Hopkins as Michael 'Mouse' Tolliver is an interesting new slant on a wonderful character and he pulls the transition of well, retaining Marcus D'Amico's youthful hopefulness, whilst adding a new cheeky side to mouse. Paul however is the only new cast member to manage this, Nina Siemaszko is given the impossible task of replacing the magnificent Chloe Webb and Mona suffers terribly for this, not only does she now look 10 years younger, she has lost the kooky charm that gave the character so much punch and spunk, she seams permanently depressed and miserable. The other disappointment is the departure of Paul Gross who's slimy male chauvinist pig Brian was a joy and torture to watch in the original as he carried on with his self destructive behaviour and loathing of women. Whip Hubley (who this time looks 10 years older) simply seams like to much of a nice guy to pull of this role and Brian's character seams to have had a personality transplant within the space of a few months.With this massive moan over and done with, it is still an enjoyable romp and worth watching for Dukakis's Mrs Madrigal's empathic presence, and Linney's heart and warmth.

I saw this on LOGO and out of order, but it was so suspenseful and fun that I am now addicted. I am now watching the 1st part, and though this one has recasts in a few roles, they're great recasts.It's fun to know that this is available to watch, and that you can go backwards and forwards to the 2 other miniseries if you get confused. See Further Tales of the City and the 1st part of Tales from the City if you enjoy this.The stories encompass all walks of life. There are gay/straight rich/poor and so many enriching story lines that there is something for everyone. I'd love to see these characters revisited beyond the 3rd installment!

I agree that the casting of different actors as Michael, Mona, Brian (especially Brian), Mrs. Halcyon, Dor'thea, Emma is a jolt. However, it's a done deal, so get over it. All in all, I'd say this second set is as enjoyable as the first, and moves more quickly, with as many over the top surprises. I read the book after I saw the show, so I was howling at the TV in surprise as the big mystery about Burke's amnesia played out with the most hilarious spin on a cult anyone could come up with. I can't think of another TV mini-series that is this fun. And a note for fellow gay men: this is required viewing. People who watch light entertainment and treat it too seriously... well, they have a perspective that I think is misplaced.