Written by John Edward Betancourt There was a time, where television networks really didn’t speak upon social issues. Simply because T.V. really was a bastion for entertainment and nothing more, and if by chance something special needed to be examined since the world was abuzz about it, it would be relegated to ‘A Very Special Episode’. Wherein the topic could be addressed, and people could discuss it at home and the network could move on and get back to entertaining, and even that… took some doing. Since prime time T.V. of that era, was filmed so far ahead that reactionary storytelling wasn’t easy. So, it had to be something that was on everyone’s minds for months on end, so it felt timely when it hit the airwaves. But as audiences have grown savvier and demand more from networks, that has changed, and so many now address important issues on a regular basis to really keep the conversation going or to get it started. Not to mention, taking the time to examine timely issues has helped programming gurus at networks to carefully curate lineups that can do more for audiences. Such as help them learn about topics and experiences in the world they aren’t familiar with or to celebrate aspects of our world that haven’t been celebrated before. Which is why the June 2023 programming lineup for Showtime® is of note. Because it accomplishes all of things, in part by celebrating Pride Month, through programming that explores the experiences of LGBTQIA+ individuals, while also raising awareness and offering learning regarding Juneteenth, all while entertaining us as well. Meaning that Showtime’s June programming lineup has something for everyone, but more importantly… it gives us more than just fluff. It gives us plenty to think about and plenty to learn and without further ado, here is that lineup for you to peruse, courtesy of Showtime. ‘This June SHOWTIME prepares a diverse lineup of series, documentaries and theatrical films starting with the premiere of S.O.G. THE BOOK OF WARD on Friday, June 2. Chronicling the rise of the guarded boxing champion, Andre Ward, from a turbulent childhood to the International Boxing Hall of Fame, the documentary reveals untold aspects of Ward’s story in a deeply personal account of the pressures of world championship expectations. The Friday after on June 9, limited series GHOSTS OF BEIRUT concludes its four-episode run. The espionage-infused show details the emergence of Imad Mughniyeh (also known as “The Ghost”) from Shiite slums to, at the time, the world’s most dangerous terrorist. Based on extensive research and recently unsealed intel, the last episode of GHOSTS OF BEIRUT reaches a climax that shows the fate of Mughniyeh. Ahead of Juneteenth, SHOWTIME will present Loudmouth, a documentary about the life and work of civil rights veteran, Reverend Al Sharpton, which premiered on BET earlier this year. Produced by John Legend’s Get Lifted Film Co. and directed by Josh Alexander, the film also features commentary from President Barack Obama, James Brown, Reverend Jesse Jackson and Senator Chuck Schumer. In addition to the above, SHOWTIME hosts the streaming premiere of A24’s The Inspection. Coinciding with PRIDE Month, the film follows a young, gay black man who is rejected by his mother and joins the marines, doing whatever it takes to succeed in a system that would cast him aside. Lauded for its powerful performance by Jeremey Pope and Gabrielle Union, The Inspection premieres on SHOWTIME June 1. SHOWTIME subscribers who wish for more PRIDE-filled content can also access the now year-round available Queer to Stay collection, which features iconic LGBTQ+ films including Ema, Fire Island and Erin’s Guide to Kissing Girls. Subscribers can also celebrate Juneteenth by checking out the Black Stories Matter collection featuring films like Coach Carter, Harlem Nights and Girlhood.’ SERIES, SPECIALS AND DOCUMENTARIES S.O.G.: THE BOOK OF WARD Documentary Premiere: Friday, June 2 S.O.G.: THE BOOK OF WARD chronicles the improbable rise of one of boxing’s most guarded champions, Andre Ward. The undefeated, five-time world champion and Olympic gold medalist reveals his untold story in a deeply personal account of his journey from a turbulent childhood in Oakland, Calif. through the pressures of world championship expectations and ultimately to his induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame. LOUDMOUTH SHOWTIME Network Premiere: Friday, June 16 Directed by Josh Alexander, Loudmouth is definitive look at the life and battles of the pastoral prodigy turned elder media statesman, the Reverend Al Sharpton. Featuring commentary from President Barack Obama, James Brown, Reverend Jesse Jackson and Senator Chuck Schumer, the documentary paints an intimate portrait of a tireless warrior who has never ducked a fight in his mission to transform the status quo. GHOSTS OF BEIRUT Limited Series Finale: Friday, June 9 GHOSTS OF BEIRUT reveals the origins of 21-year-old Imad Mughniyeh (also known as “The Ghost”) who emerged from obscurity and was responsible for more American deaths than any other individual prior to 9/11. Told from the American, Israeli and Lebanese perspectives, the series traces Mughniyeh’s origins from the Shiite slums of South Beirut to his masterminding of the concept of suicide bombers, a deadly tactic that led to his swift rise as the world’s most dangerous terrorist. Based on extensive research of still-classified events, the drama spans decades and weaves in first-hand, real-life interviews with prominent officials from the CIA and Mossad, connecting the turmoil of 1980s Beirut with the spy games of the modern Middle East. NEW MOVIESAvailable June 1 54 1917 A Might Heart An Unfinished Life Bounce City of God Close Days of Heaven Dazed and Confused Double Jeopardy Drunk Wedding Emma Face/Off Fire Island Frida Friday the 13th Friday the 13th Part II Friday the 13th Part III Friday the 13th Part IV: The Final Chapter Friday the 13th Part V: A New Beginning Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives Friday the 13th Part VII: The New Blood Friday the 13th Part VIII: Jason Takes Manhattan Full Metal Jacket Going Ape! Guinevere In Too Deep Jason Goes to Hell: The Final Friday Jason X Leaving Las Vegas Let It Ride Major League Misery Muriel’s Wedding My Girl Nana’s Boys Punch Road to Perdition Rounders Saturday Night Fever Serpico Set It Off Shutter Island Stonewall Street Smart Super 8 The Big Lebowski The Civil Dead The Good Boss The Inspection The King of Comedy The Longest Yard The Lovely Bones The Man in the Iron Mask The Peacemaker The Stepford Wives The Two Jakes The Warriors Up in the Air View from the Top Waling Tall Witness Young Adult Available June 2 S.O.G.: The Book of Ward The Odd Couple Available June 6 You’re Killing Me Available June 15 Dangerous Game: The Legacy Murders Available June 16 Loudmouth Available June 25 The Forger STREAMING COLLECTIONSQueer to Stay: 54, Beyond the Opposite of Sex, Bodies Bodies Bodies, Close, Club Cumming Presents a Queer Comedy Extravaganza!, Ellie and Abbie (& Ellie’s Dead Aunt), Ema, Erin’s Guide to Kissing Girls, Everything Everywhere All At Once, F^¢K '€M R!GHT B@¢K, Fire Island, Gods and Monsters, Juniper, Matt Rogers: Have You Heard of Christmas?, Moon Manor, My Tender Matador, Nana’s Boys, Pimp, Pride, Punch, Signature Move, Summer of 85, The Carnivores. The Dilemma of Desire, The Inspection, The Novice, The Retreat, The Talented Mr. Ripley, Through the Glass Darkly, The Watermelon Woman, XY Chelsea
Black Stories Matter: 16 Shots, Attica, Basketball County: In The Water, Blue Collar, Breaking, Burn Motherf*cker, Burn!, Coach Carter, F^¢K '€M R!GHT B@¢K, Girlhood, Harlem Nights, Hitsville: The Making Of Motown, Hoops U, Kevin Garnett: Anything Is Possible, Kobe Bryant’s Muse, Loudmouth, Mary lou Williams: The Lady Who Swings the Band, Muhammad Ali, The Greatest. Of All Time., One & Done/Ben Simmons, Paid In Full, Pariah: The Lives And Deaths Of Sonny Liston, Passion Play: Russell Westbrook, Poly Styrene: I Am a Cliche, Quiet Storm: The Ron Artest Story, Running For His Life: The Lawrence Phillips Story, S.O.G.: The Book Of Ward, This Ain’t Normal, The Evers, The Inspection, The Last Tree, The One & Only Dick Gregory, The Resurgence: Demarcus Cousins, The Watermelon Woman, Whitney: “Can I Be Me”, You’re Watching Video Music Box
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Written by John Edward Betancourt There was a time when the summer season was a wasteland for new television. Because we consumed television in a different manner, and the world really did focus on getting outdoors and spending every waking moment possible beneath the sun, and if you wanted to enjoy a new story and beat the heat, then you headed to the multiplex to take in a Hollywood blockbuster. But the times have changed, and people have expressed to the industry that they aren’t interested in being outside every single minute of the summer season, and that they would be okay with enjoying a little fresh television when the sun goes down. Thankfully, the networks have responded to that request and have made the summer season a creative oasis by bringing forth all kinds of unique programming. To the point where there are now event premieres and event episodes, and for proof… just look at what STARZ recently announced. For their June 2023 programming lineup is now available for us to peruse, and it features more of the shows we love, and quite the premiere event. One that brings back a beloved and epic franchise, and well… since you’re curious as to what to expect from the new season of Outlander, and because you’re eager to plan your summer viewing lineup… here is what STARZ is sending your way this June, courtesy of the network. ‘STARZ announces its programming highlights for the month of June, including the return of “Outlander,” when the seventh season of the fan-favorite original series premieres on June 16 plus new episodes of “Run the World” season two all month long. On the film front, notable titles joining the STARZ app this month include Alice, Darling, Independence Day, Saw, and Cinderella Man.’ STARZ Original Series The highly anticipated seventh season of “Outlander” premieres on Friday, June 16 at midnight ET on the STARZ app, all STARZ streaming and on-demand platforms and internationally on the LIONSGATE+ premium streaming platform in the U.K. On linear, it will debut on STARZ on Friday, June 16 at 8:00 PM ET/PT in the U.S. and Canada. New episodes will be available to stream weekly on Fridays at midnight on the STARZ app, all STARZ streaming and on-demand platforms and will air weekly on the STARZ linear platform on Fridays at 8:00 pm ET/PT. Following the harrowing events of season six, Jamie and Young Ian race to rescue Claire before she’s tried and wrongfully convicted for the murder of Malva Christie. But their mission is complicated by the beginning of a geopolitical firestorm: The American Revolution has arrived. In the seventh season of “Outlander,” Jamie, Claire, and their family are caught in the violent birth pains of an emerging nation as armies march to war and British institutions crumble in the face of armed rebellion. The land the Frasers call home is changing – and they must change with it. In order to protect what they’ve built, the Frasers have to navigate the perils of the Revolutionary War. They learn that sometimes to defend what you love, you have to leave it behind. As the conflict draws them out of North Carolina and into the heart of this fight for independence, Jamie, Claire, Brianna, and Roger are faced with impossible decisions that have the potential to tear their family apart.
“Run the World” season two will air new episodes all month long, with episodes available Fridays at midnight (ET) on the STARZ app, all STARZ streaming and on-demand platforms. On linear, they will air on STARZ at 9:00PM ET/PT in the U.S. and Canada. “Run the World” chronicles the euphoric highs and heartbreaking lows that Whitney, Renee and Sondi must endure in their pursuit of world domination. Whitney must follow the road of self-discovery in order to thrive in her life with or without Ola, while Renee and Sondi must decide what they truly want out of life – both in love and their careers. Whether they reunite with a past love, taste the life of a millionaire, or see their career take off in a radical new direction, these powerful Black women, fortified by their impenetrable friendship, won’t let anything get in their way.
Notable Film Additions to the STARZ app in June Available June 1:
Available June 13
Available June 26:
Available June 28:
Notable Film Stunts and Collections available on the STARZ app in June
Notable Marathons STARZ
STARZ Encore
STARZ Edge
STARZ Cinema
STARZ ENCORE Westerns
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. Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 203 of ‘The Tower’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
If there is one thing that people hope for when ugly crimes are committed in this world, it’s swift justice. Because there’s a lot of pain and suffering that accompanies violent crime, the kind that will last a lifetime, especially if murder is involved. So, having law enforcement bring a monster to justice quickly and seeing them stand trial and go behind bars quickly… would indeed help someone heal and find peace. But alas, the hard truth of the world is, swift justice isn’t always possible in this life. For criminals, don’t want to be caught and admit they’ve done wrong and pay for their crimes. So, they evade, they hide and hide the truth and that leads to difficult times. For both law enforcement agents that want to do a good job and the people that suffer and well, this unfortunate side of crime is top of mind today, because it was on full display in the next episode of The Tower 2: Death Message on BritBox. For this particular leg of the journey… saw all kinds of problems come forth for our flawed heroes. For instance, the Met was plunged into chaos thanks to Mark’s video. For it went viral and stirred up nothing but trouble and that forced everyone to try and conduct a more intense search for Mark. The kind that brought Steve back into the fold to use his skills to press witnesses and look at this mess with a fresh set of eyes. Which brought everyone close to Mark, but alas, someone tipped him off and allowed for him to escape. Giving rise to nothing but more frustration and the harsh reality… that criminals are resourceful and will indeed go to great lengths to not caught. Since Mark used deception and clearly his tie to someone on the force to say one step ahead of everyone and it wasn’t the only moment of injustice present in this tale. Because DS Collins ran into some unfortunate roadblocks with her own case. Mainly because her new primary suspect, the creepy music teacher, immediately lawyered up. Which was suspicious and would prevent her from discussing the case outright with him for a moment, and her biggest lead of all… came up empty. For she really had the feeling that the body she was searching for was buried in the very park that the scuzzy teacher made a priority for philanthropy. Only to learn… that all that was buried beneath the ground was someone’s dog. All of which brought forth more strife and more pain for the family in question, since they still didn’t know if their daughter was ever going to be found or if justice was going to be served, and quite frankly… neither did Collins. Since this case was a mess and every avenue, she explored turned out to be a dead end. But what’s fascinating about the quest for justice, is that as slow and frustrating as it can be… eventually… progress is made, and the police can move the case forward and work to serve justice. For the clues are always there, it just takes time to put two and two together and narrow down what they lead to. Which is why, careful examination on Collins’ part, revealed that the parking lot of the lovely park that was the final resting place for that dog, also had some maintenance done to it. And exploring the parking lot, revealed that the deceased was indeed buried after all, giving Collins all, she needed to go after her new suspect. And… Adama through her partner, was able to uncover who tipped off Mark, and arrest him accordingly for perverting the course of justice. Which could bring the team all that much closer to Mark. In the end however, this was simply an incredible episode. Largely because it once again injected realism and emotion into the story and raised the stakes in a different manner. Since now, Collins is going to have to square off with a man that hides behind power, which is no easy task, and Adama… is about to deal with quite the tricky showdown with Mark, considering where he has opted to stay. But that aside, this really was quite the compelling and engaging tale, one that elicited a true sense of frustration over the fact that these officers were struggling to get a break in their respective cases, but also a sense of hope. Because those breakthroughs should bring forth justice, once the dust settles from the fights ahead, and it will be interesting to see how justice will be served, when the season two finale of this incredible show, arrives next week. Until then. Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 302 of ‘Happy Valley’. To revisit the Season Three Premiere, click here.
When we last settled in to discuss the wondrous series, Happy Valley, we talked at length about how the season three premiere did a phenomenal job of being unconventional in nature. For there was little bombastic storytelling present in that tale, just intimate stories about the characters we know and love, and their struggles and their strife. Specifically, regarding the past since a long-gone monster found a way back into Catherine’s family life. And that was featured alongside some fascinating everyday crime stories, regarding a chemist that was eager to make a lot of money from patients on the side and a housewife that was dealing with an abusive husband that also happened to be Ryan’s new football coach. All of which spoke to a final season that would be devoid of big moments and epic endings that would take our breath away, and well… that particular musing by this writer wasn’t exactly correct. For the next episode in this storied franchise, took the time to inform us… that there will be some big moments to be had, but not of the standard fare. For instance, there is going to be an explosion with those side plots. Since Faisal saw the pressure turned up upon him in this tale, from the thugs extorting him and from that very battered wife. Since Joanna asked for his help in escaping her awful husband, and his response to all of this, was scary, since he was so quiet and so tense and at times, lashed out in a manner that speaks to someone that might do something quite rash in the days to come. Not to mention, the whole situation with Joanna’s husband Rob, also had some newfound tension to it. Since Rob did his best to fire up Ryan. To try to paint him at a rotten kid that liked to cause trouble, to no avail of course. But that led to more beatings for Joanna and more fury from Rob in general and it is only a matter of time before that explodes in a negative light. And the same goes for the whole storyline involving Tommy Lee Royce. Since he became emboldened in this tale and did whatever he had to, in order to get his hands on a phone to contact his son and speaking of their relationship… well that just so happened to be the storyline that built the most tension of this tale and set the stage for a vastly different kind of final showdown/epic conflict. Because Catherine was able to get her hands on the prison records regarding who was taking Ryan there to see his father, and as it turned out, it was Clare. Her own flesh and blood, taking him to see a man that caused so much harm and so much pain and that… put Catherine in a tough place mentally. Where she struggled to reconcile the reality that this was even happening. But rather than fly off of the handle about such a decision to betray her really, she did everything she could to perhaps prove this to be a misunderstanding of some kind. To the point where she gave Clare the chance to clear her name, and she even checked on this personally to make sure it was a mistake. But alas, it was not. For Clare held to keeping this secret and Catherine was able to see Clare and Ryan, and Neil, make their way to the prison to see Tommy, which prompted her… to confront. All of which, sets the stage for a vastly different kind of ending for Catherine’s journey. One where she must reconcile the reality that her grandson has his own decision to make regarding his own path, regardless of the darkness and pain it will cause her, and that will bring about quite the ending. One that could change her life and change her relationships, as evidenced by how this story ended, if she cannot make peace with what the seeming inevitable decision Ryan is about to make, and well, that made for one amazing tale. One that truly engaged us and put us on the edge of our seat in a different manner, since we don’t know how this family turmoil is going to sort out, and the only way to know… is to continue the journey and see how Catherine and her family navigate their greatest challenge to date… dealing with the horrors of the past. Until next time. Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Series Premiere of ‘Primo’.
While there has been progress when it comes to proper representation in film and television, we still have a long way to go. Because for every story about how the world actually looks, there are ten more that don’t showcase that in the slightest. But slowly, and surely, it is getting better, and those stories are finally having the conversations and feature the moments that we have been waiting for. The kind that allows for the LGBTQIA+ community to be seen and heard, and the same goes for women and BIPOC individuals. But alas, one area where television and film continue to struggle is showcasing the life and culture of Latino/Latinx individuals. For Latinos are still portrayed in a negative light in film and television, if portrayed at all. But those unfortunate realities are also starting to change in this current climate, after all George Lopez’s return to prime time on NBC via Lopez vs Lopez has helped to provide better representation for Latino individuals and Latino culture and it just so happens that a powerful series that does the same made its debut on Amazon Freevee this past weekend. For Primo is now streaming on the network and well, this is one that we absolutely need to spend a little time discussing today, because of what it accomplishes from a representation standpoint. For this is a story that takes us inside a Latino family in San Antonio, to chronicle their lives and showcase, the beauty and wonder of Latino culture whilst educating us on what it is like to grow up Latino. A feat ‘Big Eyes’ accomplishes by introducing us to young Rafa, who is at a crossroads in his youth. For his big family, one consisting of his mother and his four uncles, knows that soon he must decide what to do with his life. Wherein he either needs to look at college or look at heading into the everyday world to work and live and this is where the story does an incredible job of exploring what it means to grow up Latino. Since Rafa doesn’t know what path to take and finds himself receiving advice from everyone in his family regarding what his path should be. Which is a fairly common trait of Latino/Latinx families, since they are so close knit and rely upon one another to make the right decision in life. Not to mention, there’s a powerful moment here where Rafa ponders upon skipping school to work and help his mother pay the bills. Which is another poignant moment regarding Latino/Latinx culture, since taking care of familia in that manner is also commonplace, out of the belief that family should always have one another’s backs and make sacrifices to ensure that everyone is okay. All of which… makes for some powerful representation and education regarding the richness of Latino culture. But what matters more, is that this journey also manages to remove a lot of stigma and stereotype surrounding Latinos. Because while there is a deep Latinx foundation to this story, what Rafa must decide in this tale, is a crossroads that all teenagers face at his age. Wherein they simply don’t know if they want to go to college or try something else, and that removes stigma because that is a supremely American experience, and those are moments that deeply matter from a representation standpoint and that’s wonderful to see play out on screen as well. If anything, this is just… a brilliant series premiere. One that really does plunge us into everyday life in America, by way of a family that truly represents the average American, and it also doesn’t hurt… how this story is presented. Because in between commentary on growing up in America and learning about the inner workings of Latino/Latinx families, is a lot of heart and a lot of comedy. Much of which is brought forth by the uncles in this tale. Because each of them is so dynamically different and quirky, and eager to be heard that we are treated to some impressive riffing and some impressive comedy, and really… all of these elements compel us to continue the journey. To learn more about this family, and what makes them tick, and to enjoy an honest slice of life story about what it means to grow up in Modern America as a Latino. Until next time. Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Season Two Premiere of ‘Run the World’.
There is a fascinating trend emerging in television right now. In that, so many shows are forgoing what television used to stand for, which was raw entertainment, and are instead… injecting powerful honesty and realism into the stories they tell. Which is allowing for powerful tales to come to life, the kind that showcase the problems in our world, and provide us with representation and insight into parts of our world we know nothing of… all while teaching us powerful lessons along the way. And one show that has led the charge in this in the past couple of years is Run the World on STARZ. For this series about black women living their best life in Harlem…. accomplishes all of those goals. Courtesy of incredible writing and magnificent acting that lets us into the lives of these characters in an intimate and groundbreaking manner that compels us to soak in every single moment we spend with these incredible women, and well… the good news is… the time has come for us to enjoy this refreshing and powerful series once again. For last night saw the season two premiere of this show arrive and ‘A Dream Deferred’ not only provided us with what we love about this series. Such as the comedy that makes its deeper moments feel less heavy, while reuniting us with characters we know and love… but it also set the stage for some grand explorations. The kind that will stay with us for some time. Take for instance, Renee’s journey in this tale. Since it spoke deeply to how sometimes the decisions, we make for ourselves in life, can hurt those we love deeply and create fallout when we think we know best, and make the call without consulting or communicating. Plus, it spoke to how… we have to figure out how to navigate that hurt and figure out how to heal and avoid vengeance and darkness along the way. Since that always causes more harm than good. But we also need to avoid the ugly stuff after being wounded, because… a level head is the only way to come back from mistakes, and really come to learn if we have something wonderful in front of us or if we are incompatible with the person we love, and our decision simply sped up the inevitable. And it will be fascinating to see Renee and Jason go through that journey of discovery and see if they are indeed the right match that can use their ambition to their advantage, or if this is the end, and that is going to be a powerfully realistic journey, that we have all endured in some form or fashion… or will endure. As for Sondi, her journey here set the stage for an incredible exploration regarding love and its imperfections. And how sometimes following our heart and chasing the love we crave… can and will create complications we aren’t sure we can handle, forcing us to decide if the love in question is worth fighting for and keeping. Which this episode set up, by way of the return of Amari’s biological mother. Since that informed Sondi that she will be around often, at inopportune times no less and rightfully so. Because she IS Amari’s mom and no amount of support on Sondi’s part or decision making as she took part in here, will change that. And that will indeed make her relationship with Matthew quite tough and make her an outsider now and again when mom and dad are forced to make decisions about their daughter and that too, will be incredible to follow and watch play out and learn from. Since this too, is realistic and relatable since there are plenty of people experiencing something similar in their love right now. But of course, the centerpiece of this story was indeed Whitney’s journey. For last season she made the mistake that everyone dreads, infidelity. Not the kind born of malice, since that is somehow easier to reconcile, but out of other reasons that are never clear, and of course… that mistake had her in a tough place in this story. One where she wanted to make amends with Ola and find a way forward… to no avail. Because he decided that the damage done was irreparable and opted to move on. Which means, that Whitney and oddly Ola for that matter, are going to explore what comes next when we dissolve a relationship because of infidelity. Allowing for us to see how people heal from that, or don’t… since those wounds do indeed run deep, and to explore the emotional fallout of such matters. From the perspective of the person that was cheated upon and the person… that made the choice to cheat. A journey that will offer catharsis to so many since cheating is commonplace in our world and will of course… teach us plenty about the why and how and the way forward from it. All of which, made this a brilliant half hour of television. The kind that wonderfully set the stage for season two’s grand explorations. Which reminded us of the brilliance of this show and how it really does just reflect upon life and its ups and downs and the intimate things we all go through as we walk our path. Also, it reminded us that what makes this show so special and so worthwhile, is that we will explore such matters through a supremely unique lens. Through the eyes of black women, who will offer us fascinating perspective and reflections on these matters, and that’s special and that’s important, and this episode once again leaves us eager for more of this show. So, we can learn from these brilliant women in the weeks to come as they take on these new challenges, all while working to make their mark on the world and conquer it and run it as they see fit. Until next time. To learn more about the characters of ‘Run the World’ check out our interview with series stars, Amber Stevens West (Whitney), Bresha Webb (Renee), Corbin Reid (Sondi), Erika Alexander (Barb), Tosin Morohunfola (Ola) and Jay Walker (Jason). Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Season Two Finale of ‘Blindspotting’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
December 31st, and January 1st, are two supremely important days in our lives. For those two days, signal the end of the old year and the beginning of the new and that matters to us… because that simply is the perfect time… to reflect. For now, we can take a moment between the parties and the champagne and the ball drop, to really ponder upon the past year and take inventory on what went well for us and what was a rousing irritation. All so we can either reinforce what kept us in motion in the new year or course correct to ensure a smoother 365 days, and well, that important time for reflection is top of mind today, simply because it was on display in the season two finale of Blindspotting on STARZ. For ‘Return to Ithaca’ took place on December 31st, and well… there was plenty for everyone in this story to reflect upon. For Earl received a desperate request from his father, one that asked for him to work alongside his dad at the very restaurant where he was dragged out in cuffs. Forcing him to reflect upon his experiences in prison again and his powerful PTSD revolving around that ugly moment. Not to mention, Miles was struggling with life on the outside as well. In part because it was a shock to the system to have the charges dropped and be home and also because… his marriage was now officially on the rocks and being around his son or no, there was just so much for him to ponder upon regarding the past year. Speaking of his marriage, well Ashley was also in her own reflective place. Because she didn’t know how to reconcile the worst mistake she had ever made in her life, and all she could do was hide and hope to not do anymore damage, despite Rainey’s suggestion that she stand tall and talk to Miles and make it right and be the family member she had become and well… all of those stories informed us what this episode wanted to accomplish from a thematic standpoint. In that, it wanted to explore how sometimes, our year end musings are tough. So tough in fact, that we simply cannot see a way forward and all we can do is sit there and catch our breath and live in the moment and hope that we find inspiration to do something worthwhile when the new year approaches. But there is a way forward when our end of year musings is so sour and so scary… and the show explored that as well through some powerful and brilliant musings. For instance, by pointing out that we need to be honest with ourselves when we reflect. So that we are objective with our failures and objective with how they made us feel, for that will provide some clarity, and that was accomplished by having Ashley finally speak aloud to the fact that she screwed up and that yes, she did have to own it and fix it, somehow. And Earl and Miles… both had to acknowledge the horrors they endured at the hands of law enforcement and in prison. To understand that they were wounded and needed to heal and that then allowed for the story to explore how we do indeed move forward when we use objectivity to find clarity, and well… the solution happened to be far simpler than expected. In that… we just forge ahead. We face what we need to face head on and just see where it takes us. Which for Earl… involved going back to that restaurant and working in the kitchen alongside his father (played brilliantly by screen legend LeVar Burton), for doing what he loved in this place, would help him heal and move forward and well… for Ashley and Miles… that meant being near one another again. To feel that connection and to come to understand that they were in fact, both quite broken this past year, so broken that their mental health was deeply damaged, and that prison bars, and the screwed-up system, helped create that damage. And that perhaps the best path forward in this instance, was to let mistakes lie in the past, and just move forward and work to heal and work to rebuild what that year cost them. All of which made for a bittersweet and hopeful tale. One that reminds that life and the ordeal it can be, isn’t always filled with quick answers and easy fixes. Sometimes… we just forge ahead and do our best and figure things out along the way. And that lesson really was applied to everyone in this tale. Since Janelle just forged ahead to Bali, and Trish accepted what Jacque wanted, and even Collin, returned home to just… keep moving forward and well, that also made this finale quite brilliant. Since so many shows work to resolve everything in a neat and tidy manner, as opposed to showcasing the messiness of life. So, it was just wonderful to see such realism here and see these characters push ahead like the rest of us and hopefully, STARZ greenlights a third season of this show… so we can continue to learn about the majesty and the folly of life, from a television show that puts it on display, in the most realistic and honest manner possible. Until next time. Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Season Three Finale of ‘Power Book II: Ghost’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
For the most part, crime dramas tend to stick to a singular lesson or bit of commentary by episode or by season, and it makes sense as to why. For there is always a worry that putting too much into a single episode or season would be overwhelming for an audience. So, it is best to just keep things simple and do the best job possible exploring that lesson/commentary, so the audience has plenty to chew upon and well, as peak television continues, we are quickly learning… that’s an incorrect view of how audiences process their entertainment. For they in fact, do enjoy powerfully complex, and jam-packed stories that give them and their friends and family plenty to discuss, and plenty to think about and dissect, and thankfully… television shows are starting to figure out that out. In fact, one particular crime drama that is beginning to lean hard into this, is Power Book II: Ghost on STARZ. Simply because season three of this show has pondered upon concepts, we don’t associate with crime dramas all that often. Such as reaping what we sow and how painful a process that can be in a world without rules and going that route has made for powerful television to say the least, the kind that reached a powerful apex in this week’s season three finale. For ‘Divided We Stand’ featured a complex and engaging tale, one that let loose and opted to explore a bevy of topics and concepts that aren’t touched upon in this genre in the slightest. The kind that has us reeling today with their gravity and brilliance…. such as the fact that this episode explored how trauma could create deadly problems in the world of drug dealing. Because let’s be honest, no one in the Tejada family is mentally well at the moment and rightfully so. After all, they lost a brother, they lost a father and were forced to do horrible things this season to survive and that... combined with the pressures that they have faced regarding Noma… brought Dru and Diana to their breaking point. Wherein they took the time to set in motion the whole mess with Tommy Egan and Tasha, in the hopes of bringing order to chaos and to feel whole about something. Which in this instance was bringing great pain upon Tariq and using that pain to get him out of the game, since he quickly became the focus of their ire and their unresolved pain, and this was incredible to see play out. Since it really did hammer home that in a world without rules, pain and suffering can be weaponized and can bring forth harm and speaking of Tariq… well the Tejada family wasn’t alone in feeling frustration toward him.
For all of his problems with Effie and Lauren, and even Brayden, came to a head in this story. Because Tariq knew full well that Effie was the key to his freedom, and that prompted him to work with Cane and Brayden to threaten Lauren’s family to get her to recant her claims and make it so there was no RICO case, and Effie could walk free. Which was a move that left him… alone really. Because Brayden wanted out. Because he couldn’t stand what this life was making him become and Effie and Lauren were done with Tariq. Not because he was pure evil, but because… he treated people terribly. For one minute, they mattered the world to him and were loved and given everything they needed from Tariq, but the next… they were pawns on a chessboard, shuffled about in the name of the game, without warning and without care. And they couldn’t stand for that anymore, and it was fascinating to see this side of the business be explored and it was brilliant how the story used this to teach Tariq and the audience the most important lesson of all.
In that, in this life, be it an honest one, or one mired in crime… there is no duality. One cannot expect to expect to handle one’s business and go home and lead a different life as though there won’t be eventual spillover or major conflict. For there will be, because there comes a point where we must choose one or the other. It’s a lesson that Ghost never learned, and that Tariq has struggled to, and it’s one so profound and correct that Tommy was quick to teach it to his nephew after he squashed his own beef with Tasha and remembered what mattered through her. Which also helped Tommy refocus upon this lesson, and in the end, it’s a lesson that Tariq did learn the hard way in this tale. Since everyone turned upon him, because there was too much of two worlds in play, and Monet was of course, badly wounded and in the hospital because of that spillover, and now… Tariq is out there, with only Brayden on his side and nothing to show for his work. Which was… a powerful and complex way to end this story. One that hammered home that the overall goal of this series, is for Tariq St. Patrick to choose what life he wants and to lean into it because that is how it has to be. And all of those incredible elements give us just cause to celebrate the show’s finest finale and finest season to date. One that went bold in every sense of the word, and really challenged the audience and the characters like never before. And that led to amazing performances from the cast and is proof positive… that crime dramas can be as complex and as powerful as everyday dramas and now that the stage is set for Tariq’s biggest fight for survival to date, all we can do is patiently wait for, when season four of this intelligent and magnificent crime drama to arrive. So we can what Tariq does next with this lesson in hand and how it will help him decide what kind of life he wants to lead. Until next time. Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Seven of ‘Drops of God’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
In life we are taught often, to give whatever we are working to accomplish, our absolute all. Because that… is the secret to success and the secret to obtaining our dreams, and there is a lot of merit to those lessons. After all, those that truly do work hard and come prepared to everything they do, tend to be the ones that rise to the top and send others packing, and these are the folks we tend to admire and model ourselves after when we begin the pursuit of our dreams, since their work ethic is downright incredible, as is their dedication. But while this is a lesson that deserves much attention and is one, we can in fact abide by often, there is a caveat to it that we don’t teach all that often. In that, a sound work ethic, and an incredible drive… won’t stop people from experiencing failure. Because failure is part of life and sometimes that failure is related to learning experiences, and other times… it is related to external forces. Because not everyone will want to see us succeed, especially if we aren’t abiding by the terms, they believe we should be following to find success. Which begs the question, what do we do when we encounter this unfortunate form of failure? Well, it just so happens that the next episode of Drops of God on Apple TV+, takes the time to explore the answer to that very question. Simply because, dear Camille ran into this exact problem in ‘Food and Wine’. For she was whisked back away to Paris to conduct the third and final test, armed with some fascinating knowledge. In that, Luca was pissed about her not taking on the guide, because that would impact his financial interests. Since he was buying up tiny vineyards left and right that he was a fan of, so they could be featured positively in the guide. Giving rise to incredible profits for those vineyards, the kind he would pocket away. And well, since Camille rebuffed his wishes to take over the guide and make him rich beyond his wildest dreams… he made life difficult for her during the test. For he made sure that everyone knew that the winner would take over the guide, and he skewed the first phase of a three-phase test toward Issei, to make him look him look like a true wine genius with his academic knowledge of wines. Not to mention when Camille did begin to take control of the test and wow the judges with wines that impressed in the second phase of the competition, which involved pairing wine with the right food, Luca was there to sow doubt and offer garbage commentary. Which left Camille in a tough place because she was set up to lose, despite having great knowledge of wines and being a worthy competitor in this competition. So, when she arrived back the very vineyard where her wild journey began to complete the final test, which was to re-create a wine… she finally learned how to handle this best. In that, one simply must give it their all. Because the decisions of a jealous or incompetent idiot that wants to flex up on a person trying to rightfully succeed… doesn’t mean a person will truly fail. They merely failed in recognizing a situation and understanding what that person is all about. So, all one can do in that situation and scenario… is their best. Be the consummate pro they aspire to be and continue to be driven and hungry. For there is no greater revenge than showing a person like Luca… that spirit and desire will not and cannot be broken in that moment, and that reminds the person in question, how badly they want this and that they should continue their journey once the dust settles from one unfortunate end. All of which made, for a surprisingly inspirational episode. One that really did teach us how to handle this kind of adversity and well, it will be interesting to see how Camille bounces back from this forthcoming failure. For the odds are indeed against her, since the test is now rigged, but she is ready to become something more, and grab hold of what she wants and seeing that come together… will make for a satisfying ending indeed. Until next time. Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Season Finale of ‘Citadel’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
It is definitely safe to say that two big questions regarding the Prime Video series, Citadel, have been haunting us since the premiere of this dynamic and fun series. Specifically, would poor Mason Kane ever retrieve his memories, since they are essential to understanding the person, we are, and… who was the mole that brought down Citadel? But alas, those answers have been rightfully elusive. For Citadel is in tatters and there are few clues available to expose who might have hated it enough to bring it down and of course… Mason lost the vial that contained his memory engrams. All of which made it appear, that the season finale of this series was going to focus less upon our questions and more about the way forward for Mason and Nadia than anything else and defy convention and leave those answers to another season or never answer them altogether. Concepts that were reinforced in ‘Secrets in Night Need Early Rains’ by way of Archer’s demands of what remained of Citadel. Since she did expect our surviving trio to retrieve what she needed from that submarine and well… that led to a harrowing sequence that made it seem as though, Mason 2.0 was going to be fine in the end, since he was able to remember at least his training and he used that to stop Davik from foiling the plan to create his own nuclear hellscape born of vendetta, and because of how he handled the situation with his daughter. Because Mason was there when she needed him the most, and he finally came to understand just how deep his bond with Nadia was, and with his first family reunited and with Manticore rattled because they didn’t completely get what they wanted, thanks to Mason’s quick thinking from long ago… everyone returned to what remained of Citadel HQ to recoup, regroup (with Mason’s second family no less) and breathe… and remember. For Carter managed to save a backup of Mason’s memories and with his blessing… the first question was answered. But alas, that came at quite the harrowing price. Because this also revealed the identity of the mole and how exactly Citadel was brought to its knees, and that was an answer that no one will be happy about in the slightest.
Simply because… it turned out that a broken man betrayed Citadel. One that spent his whole life suffering through trauma and loss. For his father was killed when he was young, and his mother was never there for him, and that prompted him to try and reinvent himself by joining Citadel. To see if he could finally belong somewhere and feel needed, and he did, and he even found love. A love so strong and so pure, that to be denied it… drove the man to madness. And that was why Mason Kane asked his mother, Dahlia Archer, for help in finding it once more. Since he needed its healing powers, and sadly… that request, born out of pain, brought down the walls of Citadel and left a restored Mason Kane, in the darkest place he has ever been.
For he lost everything, and his world is even more scrambled now with two families and one cannot help but feel a touch of pity for him. For one cannot help but wonder what would have happened if Mason had received a little love and a little help, and we feel it because… his decision wasn’t made out of revenge or malice. Just a need to feel love again, and that’s different and unique and tragic and now that he knows the truth… how he reconciles that will be fascinating to watch in season two. But in the here and the now, we can celebrate one epic finale, one that celebrated the wonder of spy stories while offering up a few new twists to the genre since trauma, and PTSD, and emotional need rarely drive this type of story and, in the end, this does leave us hungry for more. Thankfully… we can handle that problem in part, by enjoying this season once again. Since all of season one is streaming on Prime Video. Which might allow for us to see if there were actual clues that hinted at Mason’s guilt, that we might have missed. But more so, because it will put us back in this wonderful universe and entertain us to no end and tide us over… until the next chapter in this saga arrives. Since Citadel: Diana is on its way, as is that all-important second season, and truly, it will be fascinating to see where this story is headed next and what new heights this universe will achieve as it continues to grow and thrill us with epic action, and twists and turns, and everything else we love about the spy genre. Until next time. |
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