Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Nine of ‘Hello Tomorrow!’ To revisit the previous episode, click here.
It is definitely safe to say that a grand conundrum now hangs heavy over the Apple TV+ series, Hello Tomorrow! For each and every one of us are wondering, what Jack will do now that the façade of his company has collapsed and that most of his staff has walked away under the pretense of a lie. Because to have that happen, denotes that the universe is informing Jack, he must decide. Decide as to whether or not to continue the lie and let the trouble that surrounds that, consume him, and take him down a tragic path or stand tall and finally do something noble and own up to his mistakes and finally grow and well… it turned out that the next episode of this fascinating series was the perfect time to resolve such matters in a seemingly tragic manner. For ‘Certain Forces Once Unleashed’ was a story that informed us early on that Jack was all about the double down. Because he had a rocket now, and a full investment from his partner/lover and because of that… Brightside was doing all kinds of commercials, and with Herb and Betty running the office, business was booming. In fact, Jack was doing so well again, from a respect standpoint, that he was even asked to throw out the first pitch at the next big game at the ballpark and well, since he thought he was back on Easy Street, he deemed it best to try and make amends with Joey. By offering him the chance to throw out that pitch instead. Something that Joey rebuffed and that left Jack in a strange place mentally. Because he seemingly could not fathom that his hopeful and cheerful nature and gifts galore could not win Joey over and well… while Jack enjoyed more success and pondered upon his next move to be near his son… the fallout of his dream and his false hope was put on display in this tale. Since we came to learn that Shirl and Eddie… fell on hard times. The kind where they were forced to hustle to survive and where Eddie’s old bets came back to haunt him again. To the point where he lost limbs and Joey, he was so angry and distraught over everything that happened in his life… that he felt the right thing to do was to swing by Lester Costopoulos’ office to offer up Jack on silver platter to the long-time civil servant. Something Lester was happy to agree to and they put together a plan to expose Jack at the game. Which brought forth what appeared to be the final nail in Jack’s tragic coffin. Because nothing in his demeanor before that first pitch, indicated he had concerns over his reputation, and what he had become, and what he had made of others. He was just ready to keep on keepin’ on and make that bread. But the truth about what Joey had planned, caught him off guard and helped him to realize… that his actions did indeed hurt the one person he wanted to impress, wanted to love, and lift up with real hope. Which forced him to really ponder upon his path and that brought forth a positive surprise. For in that moment, Jack Billings decided… it was time to own up to his mistakes, to the pain he caused, and be a father, be a man, for his son. Which prompted him to drop the act and give us a moment of genuine growth. Wherein he owned up to his mistakes as a father and as a person, and he left his fate in his son’s hands. A move that was shocking to say the least, since that was an act that appeared to be impossible by nature. But it happened and it all came forth because of his son, of the flesh and blood he wanted to make proud and that made for a powerful and hopeful ending. One that informed us that at long last… we might finally see Jack Billings grow into an honest man, and face whatever consequences come his way. Simply because at long last… he’s through running from the truth and his emotions and the fact the hope he engenders doesn’t give him what he needs and truly, the stage is now set for a powerful finale. One that may finally see Jack Billings find peace and fulfillment at last, regardless of what his son decides when it comes to his freedom. Until next time.
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Written by John Edward Betancourt
There was a time where animated shows… were fluffy in nature. For so many viewed them as nothing more than child’s play, so there was no reason for them to offer much more than entertainment on a Saturday morning. But somewhere along the line, creatives came to recognize that animated shows can have quite the impact on our lives and teach children and adults, powerful lessons. The kind that teaches us about our world and what life is really going to look like, and that understanding, brought forth a transformation for animated television. One that allowed for entertainment and commentary to blend together in a beautiful and dynamic manner and one particular show that is pure evidence of how well this works, is the Emmy nominated Disney series, The Ghost and Molly McGee.
For this is a series that hit the airwaves in 2021 with messages of acceptance, and what it means to bring new people from different backgrounds into our lives and that brought forth an incredible first season of storytelling, the kind that taught us plenty while wowing us with a unique and refreshing plot. After all, there’s a lot to be said about teaming together a plucky and hopeful tween girl and a saucy and sassy spirit from beyond. And that first season did such a wonderful job of captivating all of us that Disney granted the show a second season, one that we’ve been waiting on with bated breath to see where this adventure will take us and what kinds of new lessons will await us and thankfully, our long and painful wait for more of this series is about to come to an end. For tomorrow will see the debut of season two of this wonderful show and well, we thought it would be worthwhile to review it a little early in a spoiler-free manner of course. Because there are some wondrous surprises related to growth in the season two premiere alone that would be cruel to spoil here. So, what we will talk about instead… is that season two figured out how to make the story bigger and bolder. Courtesy of quite the addition to Molly’s neighborhood. For a new family has moved into the house across the way and they have a lot of questions about this town and its paranormal past. Something that could potentially risk the wonderful bond that Molly and Scratch share and that… is a wonderful setup for season two. One that raises the stakes like never before and takes us on a magnificent journey, that also allows for this show to lean into its trademark commentary on life and acceptance, and the power of family, and what it has to say about all of that this season, will move you deeply. For season two looks carefully at the importance of the family we choose, and how people that enter our lives that aren’t blood, but become blood by proxy, can mean to us if we fully let them into our hearts. And what it means to defend them selflessly when they are in need. Which makes for a vastly different season of storytelling, one that speaks volumes to the power of friendship and the need to cherish it and nurture it and those are lessons you don’t often see on the small screen, but they are present here and are delivered to us in a dynamic and subtle manner. Courtesy of simple moments that stick with you and the wonder of season two doesn’t end with the show’s intelligent storytelling and moving commentary on the human condition. Because let’s be honest, one of the big reasons we love this show is because of the wondrous acting present here and that continues to impress in season two. Courtesy of the fact that Ashly Burch and Dana Snyder truly command the roles of Molly and Scratch, respectively, and bring a newfound glee to their performances and really, their acting and the wonderful writing present, bring forth a perfect season of storytelling. One that feels complete and cared for, and leaves you eager for more, and it really is wonderful that we are mere hours away from the season two premiere of this magnificent series. So, we can enjoy more of this refreshing and original story about friendship, and family, and the strength they provide us with. As an added bonus, here is a clip of the season two premiere of ‘The Ghost and Molly McGee’ to prepare you for the show’s return.
Please enjoy this exclusive clip from tonight’s new episode of Life After Lockup on WE tv.
Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 307 of ‘Star Trek: Picard’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
One particular point of history in the Star Trek Universe that doesn’t get talked about enough, is the Dominion War from Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, and it makes sense as to why it seems to be on the backburner. For that was a war that shattered the utopic vision of the United Federation of Planets. For it was a bloody conflict, one that saw Earth come under fire and saw Starfleet and its noble officers… compromise the values they swore to uphold in the darkest of times… to win an ugly fight against a ruthless opponent. But at the same time, that is precisely why we should be talking about that war more often in our discussions of the franchise. Simply because… that is/was the kind of storytelling that challenges the human condition and questions more so… can we be better as a species to rise above the ugly that war puts on display? Which is why this particular season of Star Trek: Picard on Paramount+ continues to impress. Because it keeps finding ways to ask the hard questions that Trek has always asked and this week’s episode, harkened back to that particular exploration brought forth in DS9 in a creative and bold manner. For ‘Dominion’ is a story that saw the crew of the U.S.S. Titan deal with a cold and scary reality after coming to learn that even Captain Tuvok was compromised by the Changeling threat. In that, there was no help to be found, nor would it be coming, and they were truly alone in this fight. Which meant saving the day was now squarely upon their shoulders, and making progress there seemed to be impossible. After all, they were still on the run and hiding in terrible places (such as the Chin’toka system, a call back to the Dominion War), and well… that prompted Admiral Picard to first look to DataLore in an attempt to get answers as to what Vadic wanted, and when that failed, since Lore took over often and expressed his disdain for all the things Data once loved… the admiral decided, perhaps the time had come to just go for it and set a trap for Vadic. One that would allow for them to get some answers as to what exactly she wanted and perhaps figure out how best to stop her and well… it didn’t take long for the bait to work. For she was eager to please the mysterious Face that has barked commands at her for some time and her arrival on the Titan, is when this story began to truly dig deep into those philosophical questions and moral conundrums. For eventually, Vadic was indeed captured thanks to a clever plan executed by Geordi, and when Picard and Beverly were face to face at last with Vadic, they came to learn of the origins of these new Changelings. Sadly, it came forth in the same manner that the near end of the Changelings came about. Through inappropriate science and dark curiosities, the kind grounded in the hopes of creating the perfect spy that could step into any place and sow chaos and obviously, those experiments went wrong, and brought forth Vadic and her compatriots and the suffering endured now.
A sequence that served to remind us again of humanity’s inability to always be kind and gentle when trauma and sorted pasts come into play and this is where hands down, questions regarding morality came into play. For Beverly and Jean-Luc pondered deeply upon how best to handle Vadic. Since they were unsure if diplomacy and kindness and all the elements of the best parts of humanity that Starfleet asked of them would apply here. Since Vadic was going to harm their boy and harm them as well and sow pain and chaos since there was no reasoning with her, and well, in that moment… they truly felt that the ways of war were applicable here… and they nearly brought Vadic’s life to an end by making that decision. In fact, had it not been for Lore, they would have completely crossed that line.
But since Lore wanted to sow his own chaos, Vadic escaped, and her good friends and compatriots nearly brought forth the end of Jack and Sydney as well. But thanks to Jack’s unique new ability to enter a mind, they lived, just long enough to see a dark day aboard this vessel. Because despite Geordi being able to reach Data in a beautiful and powerful moment and stop the chaos, enough damage was done to allow for Captain Vadic and her motley crew of angry Changelings, to gain complete control of the Titan. Giving rise to an uncertain fate for the remainder of the crew and soon… the truth about Jack Crusher. Since Vadic made it clear through a ship-wide transmission that she was ready to supply the answers he and his family have so desperately sought regarding his troubling mental state and abilities. Which will bring forth some fascinating truths about Jack and his father for that matter since there are hints it stemmed from him. But in the interim, we can celebrate a polarizing tale that truly embodied the spirit of Deep Space Nine by having two critical characters that have worked to be the best of us for decades on end… submit to something darker. To the survival instincts that only parents understand and to the violence and anger only those backed into a corner will ever understand. A move that more or less implies that perhaps… the Federation and its many veterans of that horrific war, cannot rise above the combat horrors they saw during the war and will only inflict harm against a foe that promised annihilation. A move that was stunning to say the least, mainly because we’ve never seen Jean-Luc and Beverly commit to such thoughts. But it is also a move that is brilliant. Simply because… we are a flawed species, that has no qualms reverting to more lesser instincts when it suits our survival or when we are faced with life changing danger. So, by seeing morally sound characters struggle with that… we can learn perhaps how to be better and leave it behind where they have not, and it will be interesting to see how these characters grapple with that during what is clearly… their and the Federation’s darkest hour. But while we wait to learn more, we can celebrate one epic and tense tale. One that deserves a round of applause for offering up this exploration and for not resolving something so complex right away and for thrilling us every step of the way through big moments and bigger performances. With LeVar Burton leading the way since he was just… incredible in that scene with DataLore, and well… once again… this series leaves us eager for more. Since we are now so close to learning the truth about Jack and even closer to seeing if and how our heroes will rise above the darkness and save the Federation. Until next time. Written by John Edward BetancourtIt is definitely safe to say, that STARZ is quite the brave and bold television network. Simply because time and time again, they invest in stories that defy convention, and challenge an audience and push the envelope from a storytelling perspective. Simply because they understand that great storytelling does just that, and that is why their lineup is filled to the brim with tales that you won’t find anywhere else on cable or streaming and the network is showing no signs of slowing down when it comes to adding to its daring programming lineup, as evidenced by their recent announcement. For they let it be known that they are teaming up with Channel 4 to commission a new six-part thriller series entitled, The Couple Next Door. A series that will feature an incredible cast and of course… wow audiences along the way. Courtesy of a unique plot that explores the darker side of life in suburbia when the demons within us take control and well… it doesn’t get more daring than that. Since that’s the kind of stuff that explores unique corners of the human condition we don’t normally like to examine, and of course… will leave us thinking… and to help you get a better idea of how great a job this upcoming show will do in giving us pause, here are all the details on this series order, courtesy of STARZ and Channel 4. STARZ and Channel 4 have commissioned a six-part thriller, “The Couple Next Door,” starring Sam Heughan (“Outlander," “Suspect”), Eleanor Tomlinson (“The Outlaws,” “Poldark”), Jessica De Gouw (“Pennyworth,” Our Man from Jersey) and Alfred Enoch (Tigers, “How To Get Away with Murder”) from Eagle Eye Drama. The series is a deliciously dark, psychological drama, exploring the stultifying claustrophobia of suburbia and the fallout of chasing your darkest desires. When Evie (Eleanor Tomlinson) and Pete (Alfred Enoch) move into an upscale neighborhood, they find themselves in a world of curtain twitching and status anxiety. But soon find friendship in the shape of the couple next door, alpha traffic cop Danny (Sam Heughan) and his wife, glamorous yoga instructor Becka (Jessica De Gouw). Sam Heughan heads up the cast as Danny who shares a passionate night with Evie, his beautiful but troubled neighbor. Sam Heughan said: “l’m thrilled to be working with Eagle Eye Drama and director Dries Vos again and adding a third series with my STARZ family. Dries has a unique visual flair and I’m sure we’re going to make something special.” Eleanor Tomlinson added: “Evie is an exciting challenge for me - a girl whose world is turned upside down as she navigates devastating trauma, which isn’t helped by unresolved issues from her past. We have an excellent team on board, and I am looking forward to exploring this dark and complicated world alongside Sam and our director Dries.” “Sam has truly found his home at STARZ as he continues to shine on our slate,” said Kathryn Busby, President of Original Programming for STARZ. “This marks our third series with the brilliant actor and we cannot wait to see the chemistry he and Eleanor will ignite together in this provocative series.” Caroline Hollick, Head of Drama, Channel 4 said: “This series is an addictive, emotional roller-coaster with something to say about modern sexual mores, with an electrifying cast that will set our screens on fire.” Jo McGrath, Executive Producer and CCO of Eagle Eye Drama, commented: “At the heart of this series are two couples who get increasingly close to each other, and one fateful night become sexually entangled in a way that will change the rest of their lives forever. You never really know what goes on behind closed doors but this series sets out to make you wonder.” Loosely adapted from the Dutch series “New Neighbours” the series is written by David Allison (Marcella, “Bedlam”), directed by award winning director Dries Vos (“Suspect,” “Professor T”), Series Produced by Jen Burnet, and is Executive Produced by Jo McGrath, Walter Iuzzolino and Alison Kee. The Couple Next Door is commissioned by Channel 4’s Head of Drama, Caroline Hollick and Commissioning Editor, Rebecca Holdsworth. Karen Bailey, EVP of Programming, is the executive overseeing “The Couple Next Door” for STARZ. The series is produced by Eagle Eye Drama and distributed worldwide by Beta Film. “The Couple Next Door” has begun filming in Leeds and Belgium. “The Couple Next Door” will be available on Channel 4 in the UK and on STARZ in the US and Canada, as well as on LIONSGATE+, the international premium streaming service from STARZ, in Latin America, including Brazil. About STARZ STARZ (www.starz.com), a Lionsgate company, is a leading global media streaming platform committed to delivering premium content that amplifies narratives by, about and for women and underrepresented audiences. STARZ is home to the highly rated and first-of-its-kind STARZ app that offers the ability to stream or download STARZ premium content, as well as the flagship domestic STARZ® service, including STARZ ENCORE, 17 premium pay TV channels, and the associated on-demand and online services. In 2018, STARZ launched its international premium streaming platform STARZPLAY, now LIONSGATE+, to provide subscribers access to bold, curated storytelling. LIONSGATE+, coupled with the STARZPLAY ARABIA joint venture in MENA and Lionsgate Play in South and Southeast Asia, has a footprint that extends across the globe. STARZ and LIONSGATE+ are available across digital OTT platforms and multichannel video distributors, including cable operators, satellite television providers, and telecommunications companies around the world. In February 2021, STARZ launched #TakeTheLead, a multi-faceted and innovative inclusion initiative expanding its existing efforts to improve representation on screen, behind the camera and throughout the company. About EAGLE EYE DRAMA Eagle Eye Drama was formed by Walter Iuzzolino, Jo McGrath and Jason Thorp, the same three founders and creative team behind the global drama company Walter Presents. The company produces dramas and animations, based on adaptations and original ideas. In 2022, Eagle Eye launched two new companies Belgian based Happy Duck Films and animation company Eaglet Films. Follow Eagle Eye Drama on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram About Channel 4 Channel 4 exists to create change through entertainment. Publicly owned yet commercially funded, Channel 4 generates significant and sustainable cultural, economic and social impact across the UK – at no cost to the taxpayer. The broadcaster’s distinctive remit is set by Parliament, and it has a role to represent unheard voices, challenge with purpose and reinvent entertainment. For 40 years, it has been a British success story, engaging generation after generation of young people. Through a unique publisher-broadcaster model, Channel 4 commissions its content from the UK independent production sector. Working with around 300 creative companies every year, Channel 4 makes a major contribution to the local, regional and national economy, creating and supporting thousands of jobs and businesses across the country. In 2020, Channel 4 launched its Future4 strategy to become a digital-first public service media company and to continue to deliver significant impact for UK audiences and investment into the UK creative economy. Across its bases in London, Leeds, Manchester, Bristol and Glasgow, Channel 4 is turbocharging its efforts to find, nurture and develop talent across the UK. Through its training and development initiative 4Skills, Channel 4 is opening up opportunities in broadcasting, with a particular focus on disadvantaged young people, and addressing skills gaps across the Nations and Regions. Channel 4 has the UK’s biggest free streaming service, All 4, plus 11 television channels including: Channel 4, E4, E4 Extra, More4, Film4, 4Seven and The Box Plus Network. Through Film4 Productions, Channel 4 also invests in British filmmakers to huge critical acclaim, producing 37 Oscar wins and 84 BAFTA wins in its history. About BETA FILM A leading independent Film & Television group, Beta Film produces, finances and distributes high-end content for the global market, nurturing extensive partnerships spanning from public to private broadcasters, streaming platforms to special interest channels, production companies and top international talent, theatrical and video distributors to major film and TV festivals. Founded by Leo Kirch in 1959 and owned by Jan Mojto since 2004, Beta Film is based in Munich, Germany, with offices in the US, Latin America, Asia and throughout Europe. Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Nine of ‘The Ark’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
It is definitely safe to say that the SYFY series, The Ark, is one of the best science fiction shows on television right now. Simply because this is a bold sci-fi series, one that loves to push its characters and push the envelope and it has of course… provided us with epic surprises upon epic surprises, and it also features one engaging plot. One that is grounded in science and explores a scary future where our inability to take care of our planet has come around full circle. Adding depth to this series, and it has also allowed for some incredible commentary to come forth. The kind that has pondered upon whether or not there is hope for humanity and its future and if it is remotely possible for us to work together as a species toward a better tomorrow. In fact, those musings are critical and vital to our discussions today, simply because… they are something that has gone the wayside a bit in the story, and rightfully so. After all, coming to discover another Ark, and that a rogue Ark was out for blood in the stars, definitely takes priority. But it finally returned to the forefront of the story in quite the bold and dynamic manner. For last night’s episode of the show, saw Captain Garnet be forced with a tough decision. For Alicia came to discover where Ark Fifteen was located in ‘The Painful Way’, and sadly… it was heading straight for Proxima B. Which meant conflict awaited the crew of Ark One, and well… the options in surviving the obvious fight ahead, were to either find a new home or try to deploy an experimental shield that Trust was toying with, and there was no guarantee it would work. So, Garnet opted to fire up the FTL drive and head to a new location. A move that did not guarantee that the ship would make it to their destination, but it would give everyone time to think and time to breathe and sadly… bad thoughts came forth, first. For Helena Trust began to sow the seeds of doubt in Garnet, and William echoed those and soon… there was a full-on mutiny aboard the ship. One that saw Garnet and her closest associates be captured in the expectation that the shield would hold and that Ark Fifteen could be dealt with upon arrival at Proxima B. A plan that fell to pieces when the Trusts were a little too brutal with Garnet and her friends, prompting a flip and surrender from those disloyal to the captain and while Lane and Eva, and other mutineers did the right thing in the end… they were in a precarious place going forward. All of which really did dig deep into that central theme of the show, but before we explore that in greater detail, we’d be foolish to not discuss, this week’s surprise twist. Simply because so many of us have been wondering what Kelly is about and where her loyalty lies and, in this episode, we found out. For she revealed in a harrowing manner that she wasn’t the sole survivor of Ark Three, but a spy from Ark Fifteen. One that apparently was eager to find William Trust and of course, did so, and was quick to signal her ship. Which put the shield to the test, wherein… it failed. Setting the stage for new revelations, and a showdown with Captain Garnet. Who won’t stand for any hostilities against the crew she’s worked so hard to protect. But while we wait for more answers and surprises, we can revel in a story that truly tackled the grand questions at hand. Specifically, is there hope for a future for us and can we as a species can come together, and this is a story that reminds us… why we worry about that. Because everyone was once again pulling in different directions here and worried about their ego or agenda over the greater good… the survival of humanity. And while this episode didn’t directly answer those questions, plunging us back into the chaos that people create served to remind us… that the key to answering yes to those questions, is learning how to put those differences aside and finding a way forward, together. Something the crew of Ark One has done in the past and well, in the end, this epic and intense tale informs us… this series is about to go hard into its central theme and answer that question in either a harrowing and cautionary way or a noble one that gives us hope. As to which one we get, time will tell but that will definitely motivate us to tune in and learn those answers from a dynamic science fiction series that continues to wow us and leave us thinking. Until next time. Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 305 of ‘The Mandalorian’. To revisit the previous episode, clickhere.
One particular storytelling decision regarding season three of the wonderful Disney+ series, The Mandalorian, that is quite fascinating… is the sheer fact that it is so broad in nature. For it has taken the time to deeply call back to animated stories in the franchise to further explore the mysticism of Mandalore and it’s even taken the time to offer up a little social commentary on apathy’s impact upon society after great conflict and of course, it’s lightly explored some of the reasons as to why the First Order was able to rise to power. And well… the series is showing no signs of slowing down when it comes to these unique explorations, as evidenced by this week’s episode. For ‘Chapter 21: The Pirate’ is a story that leaned hard into the Mandalorian mythos and those examinations of the failure of the New Republic and it accomplished that feat, by bringing chaos to Nevarro. For when we caught up with the good people of that planet in this tale, they found themselves under siege from the pirates we met a few weeks ago. For they demanded vengeance and quickly laid the center of the city to waste and that prompted High Magistrate Greef Karga to do the unthinkable and call for help from the New Republic. A call that sadly… mostly went unanswered. But not for a lack of trying. Because Captain Carson Teva took the call and knew full well that the Republic would ignore a simple digital request from him to head out there and save the day. So, he instead flew to Coruscant and spoke with his superior, Colonel Tuttle, about helping out Nevarro. In part, to build goodwill between the Outer Rim and the Republic, but also to quell the violence out there, the kind that could be related to Imperial Remnant activity. But a cold assist from Elia Kane, helped shoot that down. Giving rise to some fine commentary on how the Republic fell and failed. Because it simply wasn’t inclusive and didn’t really protect its citizens and that absolutely allowed for the First Order to rise to power and bring the Republic down. However, not all was lost. For the captain was persistent and knew that if the Republic couldn’t help, others could. So, he swung by Din’s location and asked them to step in and save the day. Something Din thought was a wondrous idea since they all needed a safer home, and a favor to Karga would indeed provide them with solid land. Which led to an epic finale, one where heroes arrived and saved the day, and sent those pirates to the space equivalent of Davey Jones’ Locker. Wherein they got the land and new home they desired and where more of that mysticism was explored in a unique and fascinating manner. Mainly because the Armorer has been pondering upon what Bo-Katan saw on that fateful day, and she realized that it was fate to spot the Mythosaur and fate that brought her here. So that she could reunite the people of Mandalore, courtesy of a newfound freedom the Armorer granted her, simply because it was obvious to the Armorer that a new era was dawning for the people of Mandalore and that new tactics were needed to preserve their way of life and to reclaim their true home. Setting the stage for a grandiose push to re-take the home world and give these broken people the second chance they’ve hungered for. But before we explore that, we can celebrate another intelligent tale. One that truly did dig deep into the rise of the First Order in a harrowing and unsettling manner, and built upon the mythos, all while hinting at the possibility that these moments set the stage for some grand showdowns later this year, since we now know… Moff Gideon is still out there. Until next time. Written by John Edward Betancourt Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 303 of ‘Ted Lasso’. To revisit the previous episode, click here. As we gently sneak through the third season of the wondrous and uplifting Apple TV+ series, Ted Lasso, it is quickly becoming apparent that one of the central themes of this season… is what life looks like when we finally reach the top. Specifically, how achieving our goals and obtaining our dreams… doesn’t fix all of our problems and how new challenges await us when we do indeed become one with everything we’ve sought after in life. A feat that this season of storytelling has accomplished in part, by leaning into the pressures of AFC Richmond being in the Premier League and through the other troubles Keeley and Rebecca have faced in their respective positions. But what series hasn’t dug into just yet… is how Ted is handling all of this and his team as well. Because it is a big deal for a coach that no one had faith in to suddenly find himself coaching a Premier League team and of course… we don’t know what kind of impact sustained success would have upon the psyche of this team, when they’ve been the underdog for so long and well, it turns out that the next episode was the right time to dig into all that. For ‘4-5-1’ is the episode that brought Zava to Richmond at last under the most auspicious circumstances possible… since he skipped out on his own press conference to make his own appearance on his own time, and of course… he quickly made an impact on the team and its play design… all before taking Ted and the team into an undiscovered country that allowed for those explorations to take place. Because just like that… AFC Richmond was the toast of the Premier League. For Zava was indeed as good as advertised and led the charge on every single play and that brought grand success to the club, something that everyone had sought for ages and for the majority of the team… that gave them peace and joy and all the wonder they’ve been waiting for. For this was something they’ve all wanted for ages on end now, and of course, Ted and the coaching staff were on cloud nine. For they too, were successful coaches at last. But once the sheen of dominant wins and constant wonder began to fade, this story began to explore those central themes and for Ted Lasso and Jamie Tartt, life at the top wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows. For Jamie was basically… eclipsed by Zava and that was hard for him. For he was the best player on the team but a short time ago, and now… he was nothing more than an afterthought, one that constantly had to cede the spotlight to Zava and well, that put Jamie in a unique place. Thankfully he didn’t go backwards since he has grown greatly over the course of this series, but he wasn’t sure how to handle being the second fiddle nor did he know what his role was now on the squad, and thankfully Roy reached out regarding that. Because he recognized that shift, from his own career no doubt and promised to take Jamie under his wing and teach him what comes next and how to handle the change in front of him. All of which made for a fascinating exploration on how success in what we do doesn’t always bring joy for all, especially when one is hoping to lead the charge in that success and that we need to be prepared to adapt and embrace change if we ever want to find peace at being at the top. As for Ted’s journey in this tale, well… it informed him… that life doesn’t end with success, and that its complexities and troubles will find us even during the highs. Because in between enjoying wins on the field and accolades untold for Zava’s work… there was something deeper gnawing at the back of his brain. For he came to learn in this tale, that his ex-wife… was moving on. Something that Ted had not done yet from an emotional standpoint, and that really did put him at a crossroads. For we’ve come to learn that Ted values the concept of family and has always dreamed of having a complete one and being a great dad and the thought… of another man playing dad back home and of not having that unit, put his nerves on edge here and oft distracted him. But that is… how life goes, and it doesn’t matter if you’re winning an Academy Award or a lifetime achievement for your work in a field… it keeps chugging along and it is up to us what gravity and attention we give that. All of which made this… a keystone episode. One that set the stage for how Jamie and Ted are going to handle their respective challenges. Which means we will once again be treated to a powerful journey… one that will explore in great detail how these men handle these challenges and how the team handles other challenges ahead. For while Zava is indeed winning them games, he is oddly detached from what Ted has built and of course, Trent Crimm might have a hot story to tell, one that he doesn’t need to because someone’s sex life and sexuality is their business. But he knows the power of the hot take and the power of the news and hopefully he chooses to take the high road here. But while we wait to see what comes next, we can celebrate another intimate tale. One that really did inject reality into our dreams and our goals, and it will be fascinating to see what comes next now that new challenges and success have found this storied club and its fascinating heroes. Until next time. Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 210 of ‘American Auto’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
There are a great many reasons to love the NBC series, American Auto. Such as the fact that it is a smart series, one that offers up stunning commentary and satire on the corporate world, and sometimes the modern world, and of course… explores the various questions we have about corporations and whether or not they are in touch with the real world. Plus, it features dynamic characters that we genuinely care about and are presented as human beings that experience moments that we can actually relate to, and they’re played by a magnificent set of actors that know comedy and know how to land jokes. And speaking of the humor, that is definitely of note since this show is genuinely funny through and through and often leaves us gasping for air with its quality jokes. If anything, taking a moment to reflect upon what makes this series such a delight to watch is quite relevant and important to today’s discussion of the show, simply because this week’s tale put all of those wondrous elements on display. A feat that ‘Passion Project’ accomplished, by plunging us into a day in the life at Payne Motors, where a bet took place between Jack and Sadie. For Jack wasn’t certain that the new artificial intelligence system that Katherine purchased was viable and could genuinely hold a conversation with a person, and Sadie thought otherwise. So, they deployed it on Elliot to see if he could tell the difference and to settle the bet, and well, things got weird. Simply because he fell in love with Jessica and spoke with her night and day. Making this bet something of a pyrrhic victory for Sadie since she hadn’t anticipated that and wow, did this make for one funny sequence since Elliot fell HARD. But that wasn’t the only wild sequence present in this story. For while Elliot lost himself in Jessica’s soothing voice, Cyrus was pondering. Because there was a spirit of looseness in the office since Katherine was in reinvention mode, courtesy of her divorce, and he saw this as a chance to put forth a revolutionary car design that he had been working upon for years… but he wasn’t sure if it would land with Katherine. So rather than just risk it, he decided to manipulate Katherine into agreeing to the design by having him help her ‘craft’ the new car. Which of course… backfired, since she enjoyed the creative process and thought she could improve the ‘baseline’ design that she was given and that just broke Cyrus’ heart. For he really thought this sneaky plan would work and he outright erupted in frustration. A move that didn’t cost him his job. Because Katherine realized that keeping him working on designs that didn’t captivate his imagination… was a crueler punishment than termination… all because Cyrus didn’t approach this with honesty. As for the very human moments in this story, well those were handled by Dori and Wesley. For part of the reinvention mantra at the office, was to revamp the art and look of the office. Which in Dori’s eyes, meant pulling down the images of former Payne leaders that were on the wall and replacing their visages with calming art. A move that unsettled Wesley, since he revealed that his lineage meant a lot to him, and he tried his best to try and get Katherine to overturn that decision to no avail. In fact, anything he did here to get people behind him simply didn’t work and that led to a surprise ending. One where Dori believed that Wesley was trying to tug on her heartstrings to get her to change things back by making claims that his grandfather had passed… but it turned out… he was telling the truth. Adding a somber air to his journey in this story, one that humanized Wesley like never before and in a manner, we can relate to. Since family legacy is important to a lot of us, and the loss of a grandparent always stings. All of which made this… a perfect episode. One that really did offer up a unique, day in the life setup for the show and of course celebrated what makes this show great. Because there was indeed plenty of satire on the corporate world here through Katherine and Cyrus’ shenanigans. Not to mention… the comedy came hard from that story and from Elliot’s storyline involving that A.I. love affair, and the humanity really was on display in Wesley and Dori’s story and well… you can’t ask for much more from a show than perfection, and this really did make for one entertaining half hour of television. One that leaves us eager for more of course, since every single time we tune in, we are treated to a wonderful story that provides us with meaningful moments and plenty of reasons to smile. Until next time. Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Eleven of ‘Night Court’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
We deeply hope when we set out into the world, that our loved ones… will be at our side to share in our accomplishments as we grow and travel through life. After all, they are usually there when we leave high school and college behind, so why not have them there when we land our dream job or when we say our vows to the person, we will be spending the rest of our lives with, and of course… it would mean the world to us to have them there when the next generation comes into this world. But alas, life is a winding journey that doesn’t always provide us with that. For sometimes we lose the ones we love along the way and that can change us and how we view and celebrate the big moments of our lives, a reality that was put on display in a creative manner in the next episode of Night Court on NBC. A feat that ‘Ready or Knot’ accomplished by way of a special night at Night Court. Wherein a wedding convention brought about a lot of disorderly conduct crimes. Since bridezillas from all over the nation descended upon this event to fight with other bridezillas over all things wedding and that put Abby in a reflective place. For she came to realize that she hadn’t really done all that much planning for her and Rand’s upcoming nuptials since she arrived in New York City, and well… that lit everyone up in a positive manner. Because everyone thought it would be delightful to help Abby get back to planning for the big day and that led to a bevy of fun shenanigans in this tale. Such as Dan being reminded of the finer things that come with a wedding since a planner that was witness to these bridal crimes, locked onto Dan and became determined to make him a groom again, to cater and plan what would be a high-class wedding for him. Plus, Neil started to slip up and admit his feelings for Abby, which made for some hilariously awkward moments, and Olivia and Gurgs? Well, they decided this was their chance to be named Maid of Honor for Abby’s future wedding. Which would have been a huge honor for Olivia since she had yet to be one and Gurgs… well she wanted to impress as one, again, so they both went to town on getting into Abby’s good graces… and that led to some of the most hilarious sequences of the night. Since Gurgs decided to drop some strippers into the mix in the smoothest manner possible to inform Abby of how much fun she brought to the table, and Olivia even set up a lineup to make sure the right dress could be found for Abby, and sadly, all these moments led disappointment for Olivia and Gurgs. Since Abby already had her Maid selected. But on the plus side, these moments and actions inspired Abby to get back in the game, after all, and set up the perfect wedding for her and Rand. In fact, when she learned of an opening at a local gallery that meant a lot to her… she went the extra mile to lock it up. Going so far as to offer to officiate a wedding in the courtroom for someone that didn’t want to wait for the gallery in question. Which brought about a tender moment for Abby. Who was brought to tears when the father of the bride stepped into the courtroom, and the bride spoke to how important it was to have him present for her big day, and that… led to the commentary regarding that central theme. Since Dan and Abby talked openly, and she spoke to the fact that the art gallery, mattered a lot to her father and her, since he took her there often in her youth. And that getting married there would have been beautiful and meaningful and also painful. Because Harry Stone wouldn’t be there to walk his little girl down the aisle and that… hit her deeply and helped her realize… that life didn’t provide her with the perfect path she wanted, and that had contributed to holding off on planning the wedding in detail. Which made for some powerful commentary on how loss can change our outlook on a great many things, including moments that are important. But since this series is big on lessons to go with the commentary, a kind gesture from Dan, one that let Abby know there was a way to have the spirit of her father present at her wedding, gave us those lessons. For we came to learn that life can’t stop when we lose those we love because that’s not something they would ever want to us do and because the world does indeed chug along. But also, if the core concern of this episode is present in our lives, that there are ways to honor those that mean the world to us so that it feels as though they are there and sharing in our big moments. All of which, made for another heartwarming and hilarious episode of a series that continues to surprise us, with amazing life lessons and comedy that embodies the spirit of the franchise. And now that Abby has enjoyed a reflective moment of growth, it will be interesting to see what she does with it in the weeks to come. Until next time. |
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