Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 507 of ‘Star Trek: Discovery’. To revisit the previous episode, clickhere.
If there is one particular situation that Star Trek fans enjoy seeing the captains in this Universe handle, it is the No-Win Scenario. Because every fan knows that every captain is forced to face that possibility as a cadet through the Kobayashi Maru Test, and that said test… ignites a special fire in those very captains. The kind that prompted Jim Kirk to cheat it, and where Jean-Luc Picard, Benjamin Sisko and Kathryn Janeway learned from the test in a manner that allowed for them to scheme their way out of impossible scenarios. But to date, we’ve not seen Captain Michael Burnham, and her intrepid crew face one, since there were options and escape routes to the many challenges they’ve faced over the years. But that all changed during this week’s episode of Star Trek: Discovery on Paramount+. Simply because ‘Erigah’ saw the No-Win Scenario come to heart of the Federation, and how it was handled by our intrepid captain, was quite crafty in nature. And this came forth, courtesy of a distress call. For Moll fired one off with L’ak badly wounded, and that was how Starfleet was able to capture them at last. Which brought our villains aboard the U.S.S. Discovery, wherein Burnham hoped for a grand opportunity to make peace with them. But alas, that distress call made it to the very heart of the Breen Imperium and that prompted Primarch Ruhn to alert the Federation that the Breen were coming, and they expected their prisoners to be handed over. Which meant, Burnham had precious little time to figure out how best to best the Breen, and that prompted her to learn from L’ak post haste about his standing in the Imperium and how the Federation was basically being dragged into a succession battle because of the Erigah that L’ak imparted upon himself, and well, that led… to the handling of the No-Win Scenario by Burnham. Because Starfleet was facing quite the foe, a ship that appeared to be bigger than the Borg Cube the crew of the Enterprise-D faced in ‘The Last Generation’, alongside a leader that seemed to be unwilling to listen to anything but his own voice. But through a gambit, hard conversations with her first officer and a desire to see peace, it seemed as though Burnham was going to win the day and solve this scenario with ease.
But alas, the best laid plans never account for the x-factor, which always happens to be people and Moll, almost screwed the whole thing up. Because while peace was being made and while Burnham was working to execute a plan that would give them freedom in exchange for never chasing the Progentior technology ever again… she escaped, and L’ak harmed his ailing body and that led… to the death of the Heir to the Emperor and a tough decision on Starfleet’s part. Wherein they let Moll join the Breen as part of the hunt for the technology. In order to ensure Starfleet’s survival and in order to give the crew of the Discovery a fighting chance to get to the technology before anyone else. Which did indeed bring about a very unique solve to the No-Win Scenario.
Since compromise, guile, and outright kindness kept the Federation from having to fight for its very existence on this day, and we finally were able to see Burnham handle such a matter and that made for one fascinating exploration of her character. One that showcased her growth as a leader since she pulled together all of her experiences in Starfleet to solve this matter, and it also gave rise to an intense tale. One that ended on a high note despite the scares. Just because, while all of that chaos was taking place, the science division came to learn that the next clue in the search for this powerful technology, will take them to the Badlands, and they will undoubtedly move post haste to find it. For the clock is ticking and all of the galaxy lies in the balance. If anything, this was just a very slick transitional episode. One that shifted the plot toward the endgame for certain. Because with L’ak dead and a broken Moll out there, it’s just a good old-fashioned race to the finish line. One that promises to be epic in nature, and that will make the wait for next week’s episode quite difficult, thanks to that sense of urgency now hanging over this tale. But before we turn our attention toward that, this episode does deserve a round of applause. For keeping us on the edge of our seats, for the respect it paid to Deep Space Nine and for truly setting the stage for a final fight between a Federation eager to bring peace to all, and an Imperium that will stop at nothing to consolidate its stranglehold. Until next time. For more regarding the final season of ‘Star Trek: Discovery’, check out our interview with the show’s Co-Showruner, Michelle Paradise. Watch ‘Star Trek: Discovery’
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Written by John Edward Betancourt
There are a great many reasons that audiences have utterly fallen in love with the hit Acorn TV series, My Life Is Murder. For starters, the cases are unique. For this is that rare crime show that will offer up a variety of unique cases for Alexa Crowe to solve. Ones that range from complex and emotional think pieces to cases that harbor disturbing and cruel crimes and there are some outright goofy ones that lighten the mood. Not to mention, it harbors some amazing and complex characters. Since Alexa Crowe is both a tough-as-nails investigator that takes no gruff from anyone… and a person with wounds to heal, who is doing her best to grow and find peace.
Which makes her supremely relatable and a treat to watch since Lucy Lawless and her immense skills allows for the character to flip between both as needed and well, those simple elements have left us eager for a new season of this series, one that is finally about to drop into our laps on June 17. Wherein we can finally enjoy more of what this show has to offer and since Acorn TV is fully aware of how much we adore this series… and since we are close to its return… the network thought today was the perfect day to drop a first-look image from season four, and a trailer and more. Which we will share with you now, so we can all properly count down the days to the return of Alexa Crowe. ‘Acorn TV today released an all-new trailer and photography from the anticipated fourth season of its hit crime drama My Life Is Murder starring Lucy Lawless (Spartacus, Xena: Warrior Princess). The eight-episode season debuts with two episodes on Monday, June 17 on Acorn TV and BBC AMERICA in the US, and the season will continue every Monday on both platforms, ending with a two-episode finale. My Life Is Murder is also available on Acorn TV in Canada, UK (including Northern Ireland) and Australia. Starring Lawless as the fearless and unapologetic investigator Alexa Crowe, this new season features a slew of puzzling cases ranging from homicidal hairdressers to wicked widows and brutal ballet to deadly soufflés. Eight new mysteries. Eight new worlds. Eight diabolical killers that only Alexa Crowe can catch. But this time, Alexa is bringing her friends and family along for the ride: Tech guru Madison (Ebony Vagulans, The Furies) is stepping up, contributing her considerable technical skills to Alexa's investigations and the two of them have fallen into a comfortable mentor-mentee relationship. Though neither of them will ever agree on who is the mentor and who is the student. Cafe owner Reuben (Joe Naufahu, Game of Thrones) is stepping in. Brother Will (Martin Henderson, Virgin River) is staying close. Detective Harry (Rawiri Jobe, Shortland Street) has her back and cranky cat, Chowder, can’t help complicating everything. Emboldened by the changes in her life, ready to revisit demons of the past and excited to embrace her future, this year Alexa is even more of a force, determined to reveal the most carefully hidden secrets that crack the most bewildering cases. And, somehow, she and her fabulous whanau (chosen family) still have a bunch of fun along the way. Let the Auckland adventures begin again… My Life Is Murder is a Greenstone TV Production for TVNZ and Acorn TV and DCD Rights Ltd., in association with Network 10. The series’ executive producers are Rachel Antony, Claire Tonkin, Lucy Lawless, Harriet Crampton, Nicky Davies Williams and Pilar Perez for DCD Rights and Don Klees for Acorn TV. About Acorn TV AMC Networks’ Acorn TV is North America’s largest streaming service specializing in premium British and international television. Acorn TV adds exclusive programming every week to a deep library of revered mysteries, dramas, and comedies – all commercial-free. Acorn TV’s recent slate is comprised of critically acclaimed commissioned and original series including popular New Zealand detective series My Life Is Murder (Lucy Lawless), acclaimed Irish crime thriller Bloodlands (James Nesbitt, co-executive produced by Jed Mercurio), British crime drama Whitstable Pearl (Kerry Godliman), Kiwi romantic comedy Under the Vines and British detective drama Dalgliesh (Bertie Carvel), to name a few. Current and upcoming Acorn TV Original Series include UK detective drama Harry Wild (Jane Seymour), Signora Volpe (Emilia Fox), The Chelsea Detective (Adrian Scarborough) and many more. The above add to a growing catalog of popular bingeable dramas including Jack Irish (Guy Pearce), Doc Martin (Martin Clunes), Deadwater Fell (David Tennant, Cush Jumbo), all 24 seasons of fan-favorite Midsomer Murders and highly-rated drama The Nest, among others. “glorious streaming service… an essential must-have” – The Hollywood Reporter “Netflix for the Anglophile” – NPR Acorn TV is available for $7.99/month or $79.99/year. Facebook: OfficialAcornTV – Twitter: @AcornTV – Instagram: @Acorn_tv About BBC AMERICA BBC AMERICA is a hub of innovative, culturally contagious programming including the Peabody Award-winning series Killing Eve starring Golden Globe® and SAG® Award-winner Sandra Oh and Emmy® Award-winner Jodie Comer. The network is the definitive television home and co-producer of the most iconic natural history series and franchises including Planet Earth, Blue Planet, Dynasties, Eden: Untamed Planet, Frozen Planet and Seven Worlds, One Planet. BBCA transforms every Saturday into Wonderstruck, a weekly destination for wildlife and wonder. A joint venture between AMC Networks and BBC Studios (the commercial arm of the BBC), BBCA’s influential shows such as Doctor Who, Orphan Black, Luther and The Graham Norton Show have attracted critical acclaim and earned Emmy® Awards, Golden Globes®, Peabody Awards, Critics’ Choice Awards, NAACP Image Awards, TCA Awards and more. BBC AMERICA is available across all platforms, including on-air, online, on demand and mobile. Find out more by visiting press.amcnetworks.com. BBCA on social: YouTube – Twitter – Instagram – Facebook – Tumblr’ Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episodes 108 and 109 of ‘Grand Cayman: Secrets in Paradise’. To revisit the previous episodes, click here.
More often than not in reality television, drama is something that is treated as commonplace. Where people fight, serve up tea for others to sip upon before the story moves onto the next dramatic moment. All because a fair number of these shows think that’s what the audience wants to see and what the audience craves and that is why the Freeform series, Grand Cayman: Secrets in Paradise is of note. Because it continues to yes, offer elements we are used to… but it offers so much more. Such as moments of consequence for the drama at hand and for proof… look no further than this week’s edition of the show. Because ‘Trouble in Paradise’ and ‘The Cookie Crumbles’ did not simply move onto the next big moment of sorrow for everyone, it took the time to explore the fallout of those moments and their emotional impact upon others and that led to a powerhouse set of tales. One where the entire group was worried deeply about Chelsea. Since no one held her to account for her actions in a negative light. They realized… they should have handled that situation better because of what she was going through. So, they gave her space, reached out as needed and mended wounds and relationships because not all drama comes from a place of malice. Sometimes its people crying out for care, and they need that, and it was great to see this show point that out. However, while one could see that as a positive way to handle drama, make no mistake about it… there were some negative consequences to be found in this block of episodes. Because Trevor did a lot of bad and awful things at his bachelor party, the kind motivated by Dillon’s Dude-Bro mentality and he also allowed for Trevor to indulge in his worst instincts while drunk. Despite pleas from others to pull him away. But alas, it all happened, and motivated more toxic behavior because he was encouraged to lie. But no lie could escape Victoria’s keen understanding of the moment and that put this relationship in deep peril. Giving rise to genuine consequences for drama. The kind that may see a relationship shatter because these boys felt the need to be stupid little boys. Yet, while those two plot threads were enough to shatter tropes and offer us a vastly different kind of reality show, there was still one more key concern on the island that came to a head. Specifically, Elizabeth’s machinations. Because for some time now, she has been able to navigate life on the island in ghostly and borderline disrespectful manner, and because of the unfortunate responses to her cautious approach to island life, she has had defenders. But at last, it would seem that Elizabeth has crossed a red line and will now face consequences for her actions and aloof nature. Because she basically pawned the grand opening of Bird Bakery on Julian, and well, that left Julian rightfully angry and ready to confront her. Which will appear to take place in the season finale of this show. But while we wait for that, we can sit back and revel in a very different reality television episode. One that really did showcase that actions have consequences, and some are good, most are bad. But they will be there, and we must face them accordingly if we are to heal and grow and that was refreshing to see on display here. Because it needs to be stated and because it offered up another supremely human episode. One filled with raw and relatable moments and truly, it would seem the finale will be filled with them as well. Since Elizabeth is on the hot seat and Dillon, is about to pay the piper for his dismissive nature of the moment and other’s feelings. Until next time. Watch ‘Grand Cayman: Secrets in Paradise’
Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 206 of ‘American Rust: Broken Justice’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
There comes a point in every crime drama, where all the various plot threads begin to jell together and understandably so. Because every crime drama features a heavy, some kind of villain that serves as the major problem in the tale that the heroes need to battle. Not to mention, a lot of what the characters need, and desire comes into focus as well, and tying together those plot threads and really showcasing the heavy’s power all helps to move us toward resolution of the story, and well, that’s top of mind today, simply because the next episode of American Rust: Broken Justice, offered all of that. A feat that ‘Daddy Issues’ accomplished by quickly making it clear that Landwill, happens to be one of the grand villains hanging over this particular season. Simply because, despite Lee’s amazing progress in bringing settlements forth for the folks that ‘lost’ their water tests, Landwill made it clear just how far and how deep their reach can go in this community. Thanks to the fact that threats abound came forth for Mrs. McKenna from the company, the kind that prompted her to quickly burn whatever evidence she had regarding her own involvement with the company, so that she could quickly turn herself into the police and state that she was the one that murdered her husband. A move that could be related to fear and related to wanting the protection of a cell because of the power of this company, and well, that was indeed the perfect way to explore the raw power of Landwill and why everyone in this story should be afraid of them. Which made Grace’s journey here a little scary. Since she agreed to work with Landwill on a more intimate basis as an outright sales rep, with no knowledge of their power, and she wasn’t the only one who started down a more focused and terrifying path. Since Billy really slipped into the darkness here, for he was genuinely disturbed about the fact that his grand tormentor in prison was back on the street and free from consequence. Which prompted him to think deeply upon killing the man, simply because he wanted that catharsis and peace, and while he did not commit to that here, because of a good moral reason, it was still terrifying to see that his journey this season will indeed be dark and tortured and possibly bring him to a place where there can be no redemption. But there was mention that we have more than one villain on our hands and that was fully confirmed by Del’s journey in this tale. Because as he and Angela worked with the FBI to come up with a plan to bring down the Brotherhood, Fisher continued to solidify his power within the organization. Since we came to learn here, that he did indeed kill Vic with impunity, and was going to great lengths to cover his rear in the wake of that death. Even going so far to have planted a listening device in Vic’s apartment while Del was hiding on the balcony, and he was carefully monitoring everyone and everything to make sure that the Brotherhood would be protected and functional. Which will lead to dark days for Del and Angela, now that Fisher has made it clear she’s a target for speaking up about her concerns. All of which really did bring the season into focus, since now we know, Landwill and the Brotherhood will be the big problems, but of course, some other moments will be peppered in to break things up. Such as Billy’s journey into darkness and Grace’s dealings with Landwill. In fact, it would also seem we’re basically done with Steve Park’s ‘thorn in the side’ mentality thanks to the powerhouse embarrassments he faced here over his never-ending quest to bring down Del and Grace. But what matters more, is that the next four episodes should move the plot forward in a powerhouse manner, the kind that will put us onto the edge of our seats as we wait to see how Landwill and the Brotherhood will be defeated, or if they can be, because of the power they yield. Watch ‘American Rust: Broken Justice’
Written by John Edward Betancourt We really are living in quite the unique time when it comes to the world of television. For not only is there more content than ever before, the kind that features something for everyone, but we are also in era of television where cancellation doesn’t mean the end for a television show. Because on several occasions, a series that has been announced as cancelled at one network, is saved, and moved to another. Wherein it thrives, fades, or comes to an appropriate conclusion and well, it just so happens that AMC Networks has made strides for the last of those options to take place for a beloved series. For AMC has rescued Snowpiercer, from the jaws of cancellation so that the series can conclude on its own terms with a fourth and final season, and well, the time draws near to send the series off, in style no less. For earlier today AMC announced when the first three seasons will stream on AMC+ and when the fourth and final season will debut on the network, along with offering up some first look photos at season four and details on this farewell season. And well, since you’re here because you’re a fan of this series and are eager to see how it is going to end, here are all those details and those first look photos, so you can properly prepare yourself for the end of this epic four-year journey. ‘The eagerly anticipated fourth and final season of the gripping hit drama Snowpiercer is set to premiere exclusively on AMC and AMC+ Sunday, July 21 at 9pm ET/PT. Seasons 1 and 2 of the critically acclaimed thriller will be available to stream exclusively on AMC+ beginning Saturday, June 1, with the third season debuting on the service Saturday, June 8. Snowpiercer stars Oscar® winner Jennifer Connelly, GRAMMY® and Tony® Award-winner Daveed Diggs, Sean Bean, Rowan Blanchard, Emmy® nominee Alison Wright, Mickey Sumner, Iddo Goldberg, Katie McGuinness, Tony®Award-winner and GRAMMY® nominee Lena Hall, Sam Otto, Chelsea Harris, Mike O’Malley, Roberto Urbina and Sheila Vand. Previously announced new cast members for Season 4 include Clark Gregg (Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., The Avengers, Thor) and Tony® Award-winner Michael Aronov (The Drop, The Americans, Operation Finale). “We can’t wait to share the final season of this thrill ride of a series with this vibrant fan community and new viewers starting July 21 on AMC and AMC+, with plenty of time built in to catch up on previous seasons on a variety of on demand platforms and AMC+ before then,” said Courtney Thomasma, Executive Vice President of Streaming for AMC Networks. “Snowpiercer is an entertaining drama with a great cast and seeing how the ride ends will be a highlight of summer viewing worthy of a 1001-car train.” Set more than seven years after the world has become a frozen wasteland, Snowpiercer centers on the remnants of humanity who inhabit a perpetually moving train, with 1001 cars, that circles the globe. Class warfare, social injustice and the politics of survival play out in this riveting television adaptation based on the graphic novel series by Jacques Lob and Jean-Marc Rochette, and the film from Oscar®-winner Bong Joon Ho (Parasite). The action-packed finale of season three left a split of the train with Melanie Cavill (Jennifer Connelly) leading the Eternal Engine and those passengers who chose to stay aboard Snowpiercer for relative safety, and Andre Layton (Daveed Diggs) leading the others on Big Alice who chose to adventure to the unknown, outside world of New Eden. Snowpiercer Season 4 is executive produced by Paul Zbyszewski (Lost, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D, Helstrom), Christoph Schrewe; Marty Adelstein, Becky Clements and Alissa Bachner through Tomorrow Studios; Matthew O’Connor, Ben Rosenblatt and Scott Derrickson, along with the original film’s producers Bong Joon Ho, Miky Lee, Jinnie Choi, Park Chan-wook, Lee Tae-hun and Dooho Choi. The show is produced by Tomorrow Studios (an ITV Studios partner) along with CJ Entertainment. ITV Studios distributes Snowpiercer internationally. About AMC Networks AMC Networks (Nasdaq: AMCX) is home to many of the greatest stories and characters in TV and film and the premier destination for passionate and engaged fan communities around the world. The company creates and curates celebrated series and films across distinct brands and makes them available to audiences everywhere. Its portfolio includes targeted streaming services AMC+, Acorn TV, Shudder, Sundance Now, ALLBLK and HIDIVE; cable networks AMC, BBC AMERICA (operated through a joint venture with BBC Studios, which includes U.S. distribution and sales responsibilities for BBC News), IFC, SundanceTV and WE tv; and film distribution labels IFC Films and RLJE Films. The company also operates AMC Studios, its in-house studio, production and distribution operation behind acclaimed and fan-favorite originals including The Walking Dead Universe and the Anne Rice Immortal Universe; and AMC Networks International, its international programming business. About Tomorrow Studios Tomorrow Studios, a partnership with ITV Studios, develops and produces compelling scripted television series with top tier talent for a global audience. Spearheaded by CEO/Founder Marty Adelstein and President/Partner Becky Clements, the leading production company has amassed critical and popular success for its network, cable and streaming series including award-nominated live action adaptation of the classic manga ONE PIECE (Netflix); PHYSICAL, starring Emmy® nominee Rose Byrne (Apple TV+); Emmy® nominated SNOWPIERCER, starring Oscar® winner Jennifer Connelly and Grammy® and Tony Award® winner Daveed Diggs (AMC); and the critically acclaimed adult animation series 10 YEAR OLD TOM (Max), written by Steve Dildarian, produced by their animation JV label Work Friends. The studio has first look deals with Julia Garner’s Alma Margo, Frank Spotnitz’s Big Light Productions, Craig Gillespie, and Midnight Radio. Projects are also in development with Stephanie Laing and Scott Free Productions. Previous credits include Emmy® nominated COWBOY BEBOP (Netflix), LET THE RIGHT ONE IN (Showtime), LAST MAN STANDING (FOX), GOOD BEHAVIOR (TNT), and AQUARIUS (NBC). More information can be found at https://www.tomorrow-studio.com.’ Written by John Edward Betancourt Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Series Premiere of ‘The Green Veil’. Time and time again, we’ve heard about how important it is to understand history, so that its mistakes are never repeated again, and that lesson has been popping up more than ever lately. Because just like that, there is a strange obsession in the United States, to return to a ‘simpler’ time, to that era of Americana where supposedly life was just amazing and nothing was wrong with America. Unless of course you count, the physical and mental abuse so many underwent in that era, in the name of the perfect family mode, and the wanton racism and disgusting views toward BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ individuals that ran rampant. But somehow, that’s been forgotten, and we need to be reminded of it, and storytelling is thankfully helping with that. For instance, The Network series, The Green Veil, showcases the ugliness that is Americana by plunging us into the everyday lives of the Rogers family. A perfect family unit composed of Gordon, Mabel and their adopted daughter, Abigail. Well, that is… a perfect family unit in Gordon’s mind. Because he is the breadwinner in the family as an FBI Special Agent, so what he says goes. Which means, Mabel and Abigail are best seen and not heard, and they are expected to put on a constant show of that perfect family life. But while behind closed doors, there is abuse and suffering and downright ugliness in the home. A fascinating twist that allows for ‘Your children are my children’ and ‘Your country is my country’ to perfectly express how this was an awful time in American history, one motivated by nonsense really. Nonsense in the respect that Gordon has suppressed his pain and his own emotions over his childhood trauma of being ripped away from his Native American family, a practice from that era, out of the belief that Americana will heal him. Which helps to give rise to a hollow and sorrowful household. One where Gordon only knows anger and demand, and where Mabel only knows boredom and a desperate longing to feel and be more than Gordon’s sex toy. And Abigail, is merely caught in the middle and eager for her own catharsis and freedom from a family life that is meddlesome and pathetic, and filled with ugly through and through. All of which gives us… that fascinating lesson as to why ‘Make America Great Again’ is a stupid phrase. Because we weren’t great then and we have lots of work to do now. But while it is indeed fascinating to showcase why we don’t want to go backwards and why doing so would cause great harm since it would enable all the awful things, we see in these two-opening tales… there’s more to this story than a mere walk, through a lobotomized portion of our history. For Gordon is also investigating some odd extraterrestrial accounts in the area. That have resulted in missing persons and odd occurrences such as crop circles and strange lights in the nighttime sky. Which gives rise to many questions as to whether or not, Gordon and his team are onto something real or if this is nothing more than allegory for a deeper exploration regarding our xenophobic fears as a society or if its cover to rob more families of their children. Time will tell of course, but while we wait to see what the deeper meaning is, we can revel in some brilliant opening chapters. Ones that truly immersed us in a time and a vibe composed of pure and utter lies, and reminded us how Americana’s death truly benefitted all since it did lead to progress. Not enough mind you, but progress, nevertheless. All of which compels one to continue this fascinating journey. To see what other nightmares await the Rogers family within the walls of their own home and beyond, as they continue to be subjected to ideals and concepts that were out of date when put in place. Courtesy of a society that was desperate to impart peace instead of building it in a lasting manner. Until next time. Watch ‘The Green Veil’ on The Network. Written by John Edward Betancourt It is definitely safe to say that the Acorn TV series, Harry Wild, has outright taken the television world by storm and understandably so. After all, this is that rare crime drama that features a supremely relatable main character. Because Harry Wild is a brilliant character that made quite the career change, one that she excels at, and that is something familiar to a lot of people and allows for the character to be down to earth and accessible. In fact, the writing and the depth of the characters are other reasons why this series is so beloved because everyone here feels real and feels akin to people we know, and there are still more reasons why this show is so extremely popular. Because it also, features incredible cases that are supremely human in nature and are complex and hard to solve, and of course, it features some amazing acting. Courtesy of compelling and dynamic performances from Jane Seymour and Rohan Nedd, who play Harry and Fergus respectively, and well, the good news… is that we are but a week away from enjoying more of all of these amazing elements that have left us addicted to this show. Because May 13, will bring about the third season of this beloved show and we here at NTG thought it would be worthwhile to spotlight some of the best aspects that season three has to offer, in a spoiler-free manner of course. Because spoilers before airtime are just cruel. But what we will talk about, is how in many ways, this is the best season of the show to date. In large part because the writing is at its best, and that’s saying something when we consider what came before. But this season, the writing from a character development standpoint is simply sublime and offers growth and supremely personal moments that allow for us to care about these characters even more than we already do. Because there’s a real comfort in the writer’s room this year, the kind that allows for the moments that we live for to offer incredible gravity and weight, and that’s a wonderful thing. Since it reinforces the fact that the writers understand the characters are what matter most here and are what brought us into the fold and that important foundation leads to the next best thing regarding season three, the cases. Because this year, they are bigger than ever, they are bolder than ever, and more complex. Which brings forth engaging mysteries that genuinely keep us guessing from beginning to end and truly take full advantage of the character’s skill sets and outright synergy. Which means there’s no solving the cases that lie ahead without both Harry and Fergus working together as one giant brain and that too, is engaging and wonderful to watch. Since it allows for these iconic characters to work seamlessly together with a level of trust and understanding that only the greatest of private investigators have enjoyed in the history of television and those elements really do bring forth a slick and well-produced third season. One that really is the best we’ve seen from this franchise. For everything works here, and the humor is still spot on, and the acting remains incredible. With Jane Seymour leading the way once again since she continues to tap into new aspects of Harry, we didn’t know existed in the first place, and the best news of all, is that we are so close to enjoying more of this amazing franchise. For Monday, May 13, 2024, will bring us more Harry Wild, and we here at NTG cannot wait to geek out about it with you nor can we wait to share our Red Carpet Interview with Jane Seymour, as we continue to count down the seconds to another chapter in this amazing and dynamic mystery series, that has captivated us in ways we never thought possible. Written by John Edward BetancourtOne particular aspect of storytelling that is supremely difficult to achieve, especially in the world of television, is finding ways to keep a long-running story/franchise, fresh and inventive. Because routine can settle in, and the ideas can grow stale, and that is why only a handful of franchises out there have been able to pull off this particular feat, and even then… those shows encounter moments where people wonder if by chance the show in question is running out of steam. But of the many shows that work to keep their stories refreshing for years on end, only one has found the true answer to making that happen. Courtesy of the fact that Doctor Who more or less resets and reinvents itself now and again, in vastly differently ways. In part because its main character, the Time Lord known only as The Doctor, can regenerate their physical body into a new iteration of itself. Allowing for a new actor to take on the role and provide a fresh take on this old soul of a character. And that change, also benefits the showrunner and their writing staff. For now, they can try new things with the story and cater to the actor’s strengths and that has brought forth, sixty-plus years of amazing storytelling and moments and well… Doctor Who and its ability to pull this off, time, and time again (pun intended) is top of mind today… because it is about to debut its biggest reinvention to date. For May 10, 2024, will see the show return to the airwaves on Disney+, with a new Doctor and a new season of storytelling that outright impresses and feels refreshing for a bevy of reasons. For in many ways, the arrival of the Fifteenth Doctor and their new companion, Ruby Sunday, feels like a hard reset for the franchise, one led by the man who brought the new era of Who to life, Russell T. Davies, and that reset is driven by way of some amazing writing for Russell and his team. Because the Doctor and Ruby go on refreshing and original adventures that are filled with wonder and awe, and that leads to amazing moments and amazing ideas that have never been seen in the history of the franchise, and the wonder of this new season doesn’t end there. Because it also does something that is rare for the saga, in that, it truly works to make the mythos that has surrounded the Doctor over the past nineteen years, less of a focus. In order to move the character in a new direction that is revitalizing and supremely positive. That’s not to say the Doctor was all darkness before, but they have seen some tough days and clearly, this new season is a chance to shed that pain and show us a healed character that once again is ready to explore the wonder of the universe, and this is welcome for certain. Because it injects a new sense of fun into the series and lets positive vibes permeate every single story, and it also doesn’t hurt, that this journey into awe is driven by way of some incredible acting. For Ncuti Gatwa is a revelation as the Fifteenth Doctor, since he approaches the role with a childlike and joyous wonder that we’ve never seen present in the role, and he is wonderfully counterbalanced by Millie Gibson as Ruby Sunday. Since she too is eager to see the universe and all of time and space and that feeds the joy present in the Fifteenth Doctor’s two hearts and well, in the end, this is simply a magnificent new way to reset the franchise and reintroduce the Doctor to the world. But the best news of all, is that you only have to wait a few more days to enjoy these new adventures. For Friday will bring the Doctor and his new companion back to the airwaves and it will be a true treat to geek out with all of you regarding the most refreshing iteration of this iconic franchise to date. Until next time. Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Season One Finale of ‘Parish’. To revisit Season One’s Penultimate Episode, click here.
Often times, crime stories that feature a moment of brinksmanship for the antihero of the story, use that moment to transform them into the hero of the story. Because everyone loves a tale about an underdog and also because… we firmly want to believe that salvation comes for all. For this is a world filled with beauty, and it only makes sense that even the evil of the world, or those who walk in the gray areas of it… can step into the light and find redemption and a better way forward. But while that is nice to enjoy in a story, let’s be honest… that is nothing more than pure escapism as a concept. Because sadly, not all can be saved in this world and some… will commit to the darkness or the gray, as evidenced by the season one finale of Parish on AMC. For ‘A Good Man’ put Gracián ‘Gray’ Parish at a crossroads in this story. Wherein he had to make quite the choice. In that, he could turn around from his son’s memorial marker and return to Rose and Makalya and start over fresh at last after facing his past and being honest with them. Or… he could take revenge upon all who caused harm to his family. Thereby committing himself to the depths of revenge we have hoped he would steer clear from and for a time, he wavered between the light and the dark. Because he agreed to Shepherd’s terms of revenge and sought out old friends to get information regarding the exact identity of who killed Maddox and came to learn it was a man named Travis that pulled the trigger. So, of course, Gray made his way to his mark, making it seem as though redemption was not in the cards. Yet, Gray didn’t commit to bloodletting despite having opportunities to strike. Instead, he followed Travis about and came to learn a lot about the man. Such as the fact that he was a father, and that he struggled with substance abuse. A truth that came to light when Gray followed him into his support group and well, this is where it seemed redemption was going to come into play. Since Gray looked Travis straight in the eye and outright spoke to the pain in his heart. But alas, that was just the appetizer for the main course, and it helped to get Travis isolated so Gray could put terror into his heart before putting a bullet into his head and well… that harrowing moment led to a confession that finally prompted Gray to choose his path.
For Travis let it be known that the district attorney that Anton was backing, helped to cover up the whole mess at Anton’s request, and well… that was enough for Gray to commit to utter darkness. For this could not stand and the pain was too great to bear. So, Gray let Travis go with the understanding he would confess for his sins and once he was off to tell the world of what happened, Gray found Anton and imparted revenge at last. By brutally wounding the man before letting him burn to death in a car explosion. Pushing Gray out of the very place he often operated so he could commit forever to the darkness, to the fury that he felt within and while that alone would have carried this story, there was still more for Gray to handle in this finale. Because after all, to get to this point, he needed Shepherd’s help and that meant a debt was due.
Because Shepherd still had plans to run the family business, and while he and his sister Shamiso schemed and pushed their way into closing a grand deal to secure the family’s future by using people as currency, Gray made his way to Zenzo and isolate him with the intent of killing him. But all Gray wanted on this night was revenge and a chance to be free of any commitments to the Tongai family going forward and that was why… he let Zenzo live and let the family sort the matter out. So that there were no more problems hanging over his head. But what mattered more here, is that this story ended on a shockingly sour note. One where Gray could have saved his soul but chose to hand it over to the darkness and he paid dearly for doing so. After all, Rose and Mikayla left him behind, putting him on a lonesome path with nothing to his name and he has also, brought forth more trouble. Since Papa Tongai has come to The Big Easy for revenge, and the big boss in Chicago, someone who needed to be informed of Gray’s return to crime, is indeed informed. Not to mention, heartbreak looms as well since we learned that Colin hasn’t been entirely honest with his best friend. All of which sets the stage for a powerful season two, courtesy of one epic season one finale. One that truly defied the norms and denied the audience what they are used to. To remind us, that there are indeed lost souls in this world, who could not reconcile the pain and travel about as ghosts, filled with torment. That is why… this show needs a second season and beyond, to properly explore what that life is like for lost and ghostly soul, in a city where ghosts are everywhere to be found. Watch ‘Parish’
Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 525 of ‘Love During Lockup. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
One thing that we can all agree upon, is that love is filled with ups and downs. Sometimes they’re quite relaxed in nature, the low points that is. Since they merely involve nothing more than quiet moments not filled with heart pounding romance and of course… sometimes the low points are low. For there are battles and disagreements and of course heartbreaks. The kind we think no one else can endure or are far less severe or stressful for others. Which is a bit of a jealous worldview of what happens outside of our love, but understandably so. Because our feels are our feels. But that’s why it never hurts to explore love’s trials and tribulations through the lens of others… to offer us perspective regarding our own love life. Which is why we tune into shows like Love During Lockup on WE tv. Because this is the kind of series that provides perspective and informs us of what romance is like for others and how, well, let’s be honest… our struggles may not be so bad, as evidenced by this week’s tale. Because highs and lows were on display in ‘Cut the Cameras!’ the kind that could be considered to be vastly more difficult than are own. Afterall, Shonta spent time in this tale, chasing down potentially stolen money from her family. All to make sure that she could have enough money to start her dream with her love, and this was… a low point in her life for certain, one that was ugly in nature and well, perhaps not fully related to love, but one that did offer perspective. But there were perhaps better examples of how there are moments in love far more difficult than the ones we face. Since we met a man named Rick, who was getting on well in life, but some romantic choices on his part, had his family worried. Because he was head over heels in love with his high school sweetheart, Samantha, who he recently reconnected with and who… was wild in her lifestyle. After all, she was in jail and there was worry that Rick might find corruption in being with someone he desired so deeply and that’s not something we see every day and that kind of potential trouble would absolutely put us at a low and leave us worried if we thought our loved one could do better. And of course, Ayonna was at a real low here, period. Because now she was going to be cut off from her love and the world and she was taking all kinds of heat from that. Not to mention, Tennie was dealing with some serious new conflict in her relationship with Rob. Because while the cameras revealed that she stayed after all to talk with his mom and there was a civil conversation, albeit briefly, she was mad over having to be the one to handle all of this, and that Rob didn’t make any effort to get his mom settled down after that meeting. Which prompted her to just do as the title said and flex on Rob, to try and get him involved, before she learned… that he might be in there longer to have more freedom. Something that truly put her in a tough spot. Plus, a real darkness began to grow over Joey and Michael’s relationship. Since we learned that Michael might be in there for far longer than expected, which he hasn’t told Joey, who was reeling from his confession to his family in this tale and pondering deeply upon staying with Michael. All of which really did showcase that highs and lows are a universal love experience, but that the lows can be worse than we think or feel in the midst of our own. Which does indeed provide us with perspective. That love is hard and a struggle at times, one that deserves grace and patience to get through the worst parts, and this episode also reminded us that we can overcome. Because despite the rough stuff we saw here, everyone is pushing ahead, trying their best and that can go far in fixing the stuff we worry about. Either way, this was just an emotional tale in the end. One that really saw so many go through the wringer and truly, it will be interesting to see how everyone comes out on the other side as this season of storytelling continues along. Until next time. Watch ‘Love During Lockup’
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