Following the foilables of 2 major internet personalities is captured in 2 new series. Showtime looks at the Uber founder, while Hulu takes on Elizabeth Holmes’ downfall with Theranos. (Yet another one, We Crashed, about WeWork just dropped on Apple)

Super Pumped: The Battle for Uber Travis Kalanick made Uber the monster success it is, but his arrogance and destructive behaviors led to his downfall. This production’s sprite pace and pointed monologues are aiming for Aaron Sorkin’s style, but without the sharpness. Joseph Gordon-Levitt heads the casts with fierce commitment with Kyle Chandler, as the head venture capitalist, adds an assured voice of reason. Uma Thurman has yet to show up as Arianna Huffington, but her director, Quinton Tarantino, can be heard as a narrator. While it’s interesting to watch the machinations of the new enterprise develop, there’s not much in the directing or characterizations that goes deep into personal territory. We just get an inside look, as their irreverence plays out with destructive bravura. NOTE: This review based on 3 or 7 one-hour episodes and the future seasons will focus on other businesses that have affected the culture.)

UPDATE: After seeing all 7 eps I can say that the show goes deeper and gets more involving, although a bit repetitive. A standout is Uma Thurman, who shows up and turns in an exceptional performance.

(3 / 5)
Showtime link

The Dropout Amanda Seyfried plays Elizabeth Holmes, whose dreams to create something to help the world led her to the establishment of Theranos. As she grows her rep and her company, the technology never catches up to her promises. As her failures mount, she manages to keep investors interested, . Seyfried is magical in the lead. While her manners may capture Holmes, it’s her performance that allows the character’s vulnerability and quiet panic to show thru. She’s surrounded by excellent performances and a script that adds more humanity as the mounting debacle plays out. While the outrage at her actions escalates, this series makes her perspective at least a bit understandable. (This review based on 5 of 8 one-hour episodes.) (4 / 5)
Hulu link