Caution: This article contains spoilers for the motion picture, ‘Nocebo’.
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It is definitely safe to say, that the world has dueling opinions regarding the notion of karma. For there are those who genuinely believe that it is a very real thing. That we only get out of this life what we put in, and that there are countless examples of how negative energies come back to haunt those who make harm their priority. Yet there are plenty of other people who believe that such talk is nonsense, and that if the world truly had some kind of unseen force that created balance, far less terrible things would happen in this world. Since people would eventually understand the rules. But instead… cruelty and darkness persist. But regardless of which side you fall upon when it comes to that line of thinking, one has to admit… that the concept of karma is indeed quite intriguing, and it definitely ignites one’s imagination. 
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Since it does prompt the skeptic to look at what such a concept could in fact do for humanity and well, those that believe… already let the notion fill their mind with hope, since they embrace that belief and its potential, wholeheartedly. If anything, such discussions really do beg the question… if karma were one hundred percent proved to be real, what would it look like in our world, and how would we wield it? Which is where storytelling comes into play, since film and television and books can ponder upon such matters in a unique and crafty manner and it just so happens that Shudder is now home to a story in that vein, and Nocebo is a horror story that ponders upon the reality… that karma wouldn’t be as pretty as we would like it to be, if it were indeed a staple of our world. 

A feat that this story accomplishes by introducing us to a fashion designer named Christine, who is enjoying the good life. Because her designs are flying off of the shelves, and she has a wonderful marriage and a loving daughter and it seems as though, nothing can bring her down. That is until some dark news and a strange encounter with a rabid and mangy dog, leaves her horribly ill for months on end. To the point where she barely functions anymore and that prompts her to bring in a caretaker named Diana. Who not only knows how to make the family feel better about their day since illness is tough to watch a family member go through, but she seems to have some miracle cures from her native country to share with Christine as well. But as she spends more time in the family’s household, it becomes quite clear that Diana… does not have the best intentions in mind. In fact, she’s out for revenge against Christine and ready to punish her in the worst ways imaginable.  

Which at first glance does seem akin to a revenge story over anything karma related. But as we learn more about Diana’s past and the long and winding and sorrowful journey that has led her to Christine’s doorstep, we come to realize that the powers she harbors and the mysticism that she is steeped in, taps into something that no other person can. What would indeed seem to be a primal form of karma, one that only the privileged seem to know about and she is able to wield it with minimal effort and transform it to make people properly pay for their disgusting actions in this life. Which leads to a harrowing cat and mouse game between this duo and even the rest of the household, and it genuinely informs us what our world would look like if by chance… we could indeed tap into karma and wield it no problem, and how it would be disastrous.  
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Sure, we would indeed see to it, that a select few can handle it like Diana does here, to try and keep it from becoming negative in nature. But since we are not objective creatures and can be conniving to get the sense of justice we deserve; it would be abused by those who seek its power and clearly as evidenced by Diana… abused by those who wield it since emotions always cloud judgment. Which makes this a bleak movie for certain. One that basically poses… that until we learn how treat one another decently, the balance we seek through concepts like karma, cannot exist. Since both Christine and Diana indulge in devastating darkness that is outright cyclical in nature. Which does indeed lead to a sour ending and a story that stays with you long after it’s come to an end with its commentary on decency and our lack of it.

However, you’ve likely noticed at this point, we haven’t talked all much about the horror aspects of this story, making it seem as though this film focuses more on the horror of our psyche over elements that would please the average horror hound. But make no mistake about it, they are there. They just so happen to be supremely subtle in nature and fused into atmosphere and eerie moments and there is a grand payoff at the end for certain, one that truly unsettles and terrifies. Making this something of a contemporary gothic horror film, one that is also wonderfully well-acted. Since Eva Green (Christine) and Mark Strong (Felix) help to make this story supremely visceral and emotional in nature and Chai Fonacier is simply chilling as Diana and well, this is definitely a worthwhile watch. Simply because you cannot go wrong with a story that takes an age-old concept to task in such a unique and original manner. One that reminds us that much of what we want as a species, is right in front of us, if we’re willing to put in the work and be decent to one another at last. 

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Season One Finale of ‘Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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We live in a world where we firmly believe… that good always triumphs over evil and it makes sense as to why. Because time and time again, we’ve seen evil rise and we’ve seen it make every attempt to conquer all that is good. Only to watch real heroes stand tall against it and defeat it in a concise and epic manner that should keep future evil doers from ever wanting to mess with the world. But while that belief has merit, since the entire globe stood up against evil in the Second World War… it isn’t an accurate view of our world and the constant dance between good and evil. Because in reality… one side never really stands above the other in this world. It’s a constant give and take.
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Which means that evil enjoys as many victories as good does along the way and well… just conquering it by sheer force isn’t the answer to seeing a world where it is defeated for all time, it’s understanding evil and how it wins. So that we are vigilant and able to fight it quietly before it becomes quite powerful and/or victorious. If anything, that process and that understanding is top of mind today, simply because they served as the focal themes of the season one finale of Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches on AMC. For ‘What Rough Beast’ is a story that saw evil win and its victory claimed the good nature of Dr. Rowan Fielding. Which was stunning to say the least and well… it was her journey into darkness that answered all of our questions regarding evil and how it wins the day.  

In part, it is able to do so through apathy and curiosity. Because when others simply do not care about the outcome of what evil wants, it can thrive and when some want to know what the other half looks like, it is encouraged and the Talamasca is what embodied those concepts here. Since they continued to push the ‘we must observe’ mantra on Ciprien and some even said they had to know how the prophecy was going to turn out and going that route, really did help Lasher bide his time and thrive in the shadows. Because no one of note was going to stop him, not even the family for that matter since men like Cortland also taught us that evil’s promises of grandiose tomorrow’s… also help it win the day. Since Cortland was deeply interested in what Lasher could deliver unto him if he helped the prophecy come to fruition.

However, evil’s victories are grounded in more than ego and apathy, they also require… cruelty and devastation. The kind that breaks the will of individuals, so they feel they have no choice but to follow evil and find salvation within its promises of a better tomorrow and that… was handled by Rowan’s journey here. For after weeks of suffering through devastating heartbreak and sorrow and grief, she was pushed to her breaking point here. Courtesy of Lasher, who seduced her in her broken state to make her feel needed and loved, and happy if for a moment, so she would trust him at last and accept his lies about the family’s past. The kind that painted a picture of a family line under persecution from hate and fear, instead of the fact that it was under fire from a desperate spirit that wanted nothing more… than to be born again through Rowan.  
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All of which, rattled Rowan to the point where she was confused and unable to stop the birth of a monster, and while she nearly escaped evil’s clutches… Cortland’s nonsense and ego hammered home what Lasher taught her and that… pushed her over the edge… and allowed for her to embrace evil and its power. Setting in motion a powerful prophecy and giving Rowan all the lies she needs to protect a true monster. Which allowed for evil to win and served to teach us… that we cannot accept apathy and curiosity when evil come knocking, nor can we let ego and lies spread. We have to be vigilant, and we have to fight evil with every fiber of our being and help others to realize that evil is here and that it wants something, and help those vulnerable to evil’s promises, to truly begin to leave it in the past.  

Of closure, that does little good now, since it won here. So really, that was more for the audience. Whereas the characters of Rowan’s world, are going to be left with devastation in their wake, since this episode also revealed the truth about Cortland and his sorted past with his own family, and of course… a monster is under the protection of a broken person. And the only hope now for a better tomorrow, is for good people to figure out how to reach Rowan and help her see the light, before it is too late. Which is likely what the recently announced second season of this delightful show will explore, and it will be interesting to see what comes next for Rowan, now that evil has manipulated her into burying the best parts of herself in the name of something diabolical. Until next time. 

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Seven of ‘The Last of Us’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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When we first set out on our journey through a nightmarish world filled with a Cordyceps related pandemic, via the HBO series, The Last of Us, we were presented with quite the philosophical question regarding our place at the end the of world. Specifically, were we or are we a species that is worth saving? Which is a question that has a lot of merit for a story set at the end of the world, where nature has opted to replace the dominant species of the planet with something new. Since that truly forces the former top dog, to ponder upon their place and their actions and their outright worth. And that question was indeed explored in some detail in a fascinating manner in early episodes, before taking a backseat for other explorations on this world and humanity. 
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Such as our inability to work together, and how we tend to embrace negativity in life over change, as evidenced by that harrowing journey to ‘The Heart of America,’ Kansas City. Not to mention the series even took the time to explore the concerns that would come forth post-collapse, when the basics we depend upon, disappear. Plus, the story has even explored the power of trauma at the end of the world, and the importance of maintaining one’s mental health in that environment. Making it clear that this series has a lot to say about our species, our world, and it will take every opportunity to explore every corner of the human condition because why not? Why not use a horror story about humans being zombified by mushrooms to just let loose and give us a contemporary view of where we are at in the second decade of the 21st Century?  

However, it would seem as we near the end of this long and winding journey, since there are only two episodes left in season one after last night’s journey, that the show is going to return to its core concept and ask us once again, are we worth saving? And if so, what is it that makes us worth saving? Because those are the questions that last night’s episode of the show took the time to dive into, in the most unique manner possible of course. For ‘Left Behind’ is a story that spent a great deal of time in the past, specifically… Ellie’s past. Which was on her mind because it brought her good memories and important lessons. Which she needed in the moment since this story picked up a short while after last week’s harrowing reveal that Joel was badly injured and potentially near death.  

So, while she took a moment to decide whether to honor his wishes about leaving him behind, she pondered upon yesterday and a night that mattered the most to her. One that came about just a short while before she encountered Joel and Tess and began the journey that brought her to this difficult moment and well, what we came to learn was that Ellie… was in a uniquely different place at that point in her life. For she was… a FEDRA trainee, learning the ropes to become an officer, even, and she was… bored. Bored because this offered her nothing on a fundamental level and she had no friends in the facility really, she just missed her bestie Riley who outright disappeared, and it seemed for a moment there… this was going to be her life. 

But Riley’s return and the promise of an incredible evening, set in motion a vastly different path for Ellie, courtesy of a trip to the mall. Which brought forth… a stunning homage to George A. Romero’s Dawn of the Dead, complete with a zombie, but more on that in a moment. Because being in this place and being with someone that Ellie cared deeply for, truly opened her eyes to a world free of just survival and terror. There was a world out there where people could smile and embrace joy and love. Which she did by telling Riley of her feelings for her, which were reciprocated, and this truly just seemed to be a segment designed to teach Ellie that life is so much more than what others sometimes make it. But sadly, it was in fact, designed to teach her the beauty and the horrors in life in a manner that spoke to the questions posed earlier.
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Because eventually, the sole infected individual hiding within this mall… struck and struck true. Since he took a bite out of Ellie and a bite out of Riley. Prompting the two of them to ponder upon the end, and the meaning of their short lives and the love they just discovered. And it was in these harrowing farewell moments where Riley… at her lowest emotionally, offered comfort to her new love and loyalty and dedication. Which taught Ellie a great deal to say the least. About those elements, about loss and what it meant… to be cared for by those who genuinely love us and what that does for our heart and our soul, and those lessons were reflected upon here, because Ellie came to realize in present day… she needed to apply them to the situation. 

Because… she loved Joel. With all of her heart. For he had done a great deal for her and kept her safe and made her a priority and now… he was hurting… he was potentially dying a slow and horrible death and was undoubtedly scared and worried. Which meant… it was time to pay that same kindness she received forward and potentially… change the outcome of a dark moment. Which is why Ellie stayed by his side, found first aid supplies and did everything she could to patch Joel up and give him the same comfort she received on that fateful night. Which was beautiful and powerful to watch and informed us that we are indeed a species that is worth saving and Ellie’s past and actions informed us as to why that is the case. 

It all boils down to the fact… that we are beings that can grow, that can learn and are capable of great beauty in the worst possible moments. Which offers redemption and growth and solid reason to be granted a second chance at whatever we want in life, since we can get it right, thanks to the lessons we learn and that observation and all the powerful moments that led to it, made for one incredible story. One that truly immersed us in a world of hope for the first time in the short run of this series really. Since we saw the best parts of humanity on display here, and the wonder of who we are, and it will be interesting to see how this commentary and every lesson learned will come together as this wondrous and sweeping and oft unsettling story… comes to a close. Until next time.  

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 407 of ‘Servant’. To revisit the previous episode, click here. 
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As we inch toward the end of a long and winding, and unsettling and downright creepy journey through the city of brotherly love courtesy of the Apple TV+ series, Servant, one thing has become apparent. In that, the Turner family is in serious trouble. For whatever Leanne Grayson is, and whatever she represents… is growing in power. A power that seemingly can rock the foundations of the earth and control the fates of anyone that she deems worthy, and there is a real sense of danger growing in this story. One that hints at the possibility that dark times are ahead for this family if they cannot figure out how to beat Leanne at her own game and well, that likely means… they need help. The kind that teaches them how to combat this… or… takes the fight off of their hands. 
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As it turns out, that kind of help finally has arrived for them. For the next episode in this story, ‘Myth’, finally brought a hero to their doorstep and not a moment too soon. Simply because… Dorothy came to discover in this tale that she is a target of Leanne’s. For when she had some quiet time without her around, she used her skills as a reporter to uncover the unsettling reality that good old Uncle George and little Leanne, visited her every year. On the day of Leanne’s mother’s passing no less and that obsession with being near Dorothy on a such a dark day, rattled her to her core and left her wondering what kind of trouble awaited her and where George fit into all this, and it just so happened… he was the hero the family was in need of.

For while Julian and Sean were trying to figure out if Leanne was something evil from Biblical legend, they were reunited with Roscoe who asked them to head into the hidden apartment where they could speak with Uncle George and hear his confession. Wherein he informed this duo that they were being fed nothing but lies. For he spoke to a reality where Leanne Grayson was not some servant of God with incredible powers, but a broken woman that happened to offer up strange coincidence at every turn. One that needed to no longer have her ego fed because of her lies and one that needed to be handed over to George so he could properly deprogram her from the church’s nonsense now that he was no longer a member. A revelation that would finally give them peace and left us questioning… everything.

As though we’ve been on nothing, but a simple ride the past four years and those words were so impactful that we saw quite the change in personality from the family. One where they stood up to Leanne with minimal fuss because they finally thought they were free of mysticism and well… that is indeed the assist they needed. Because George did make it clear in darkness… that he hasn’t left the church and lied to protect the family. For Leanne is indeed becoming something more, something powerful and terrifying and well… not having faith in her, not feeding her ego and whatever evil within that thrives upon the attention and the adoration… may save their lives from a horrible fate.

If anything, this was just… a brilliant episode. One that truly toyed with us and left us guessing. Which is a staple of shows and stories that have the name Shyamalan attached, and that really did make for one fun ride. One that also hammered home how dangerous things have become for this family and changed the dynamic for certain. Because it wasn’t that long ago that it seemed as though a collision course was set in motion, one that would see hurt and suffering come into play and well, who knows… perhaps George has indeed done something special here and saved lives and the future of humanity, and all it will take now to complete salvation, is a lovely push from a family… that now resides with the security of ignorant bliss. Until next time. 

It’s been some time since we talked about The Walking Dead Universe, and it makes sense as to why. For now, that the flagship series has been laid to rest, and the majority of release dates for the spin-off shows and the final season of Fear the Walking Dead have been revealed… quiet time is essential. So, that the good folks working on these shows can complete the finishing touches on these stories, to wow us with a farewell tour for Morgan Jones and his friends and properly re-introduce us to Maggie Rhee, and Negan, and the iconic Daryl Dixon. But today is a different day in the world of The Walking Dead, one that prompted AMC to break the silence surrounding the franchise with some critical news from the land of the dead.

In that, production has finally begun on the upcoming Rick Grimes and Michonne-centric series that fans have been eagerly awaiting. In fact, it kicked off last week in New Jersey, and well… since AMC knows how badly we want to know more about this series, they were kind enough to provide everyone with a synopsis and details on the show, to go along with two epic behind the scenes photos from the start of production. So, since this series starring Andrew Lincoln and Danai Gurira, won’t be hitting the airwaves until next year, here are those photos to help tide you over until we reunite with two legends from The Walking Dead Universe.

‘Production for the upcoming The Walking Dead Universe spinoff starring Andrew Lincoln and Danai Gurira began last week in New Jersey. The six-episode series is set to debut next year on AMC and AMC+.
 
AMC released behind-the-scenes images from set, where Lincoln and Gurira reunite to continue the highly anticipated journey of fan favorite characters Rick Grimes and Michonne.

The series presents an epic love story of two characters changed by a changed world. Kept apart by distance. By an unstoppable power. By the ghosts of who they were. Rick and Michonne are thrown into another world, built on a war against the dead... And ultimately, a war against the living. Can they find each other and who they were in a place and situation unlike any they've ever known before? Are they enemies? Lovers? Victims? Victors? Without each other, are they even alive -- or will they find that they, too, are the Walking Dead? Scott M. Gimple, Chief Content Officer of The Walking Dead Universe, serves as showrunner and executive producer alongside Lincoln, Gurira, Denise Huth and Brian Bockrath.’  

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the motion picture, ‘The Witch: Part 2. The Other One’.
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One thing that horror fans can agree upon, is that the mega horror franchise currently lies dormant. Which isn’t a bad thing by any means. Simply because we are in the midst of a horror renaissance, where fresh and original horror stories are everywhere to be found. The kind that challenge us and wow us and make us uncomfortable with their raw commentary upon the world and the human condition and sometimes… the intimate fears that we face. But there is something to be said about the mega franchise and what it does for fans of horror everywhere and its benefits to those who are uninitiated to everything that horror has to offer. Because those stories… offer continuity and familiarity and just plain comfort really.
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Since you know what you’re getting into when you settle in to enjoy one, and you can easily use those films to show friends and those curious about horror as to what the genre can indeed accomplish and why it is worth their while. Leaving one to wonder… when the mega franchise will return, since horror tends to be cyclical in nature, and what it will look like in this new era of horror themed storytelling. Oddly enough, it turns out that there are some filmmakers out there, that are currently trying their hand at creating new mega franchises and getting a jump on its return. Such as writer/director Park Hoon-jung. Since the latest chapter in his Witch saga just dropped on Shudder and well, The Witch: Part 2. The Other One makes it clear that Mister Hoon-jung is indeed working to create the next massive horror franchise, one designed to showcase what this type of film can do in the modern horror world.

Courtesy of a story that fleshes out the universe he created in The Witch: Part 1. The Subversion. Since this motion picture, plunges us back into a world where genetic manipulation and science have in essence brought out the magic within us and when we return to this world, we are introduced to a poor soul with the designation, Ark 1. And she has managed to escape an all-out assault to destroy a facility similar to the one we saw in the first film, one designed to make these modern witches and now that she is free… she manages to befriend some everyday folks in town and appears to be on her way to living a normal life. But the dark forces searching for her and others like her, and the darkness of humanity, will make that an impossibility and will push her to face her past and a truth that will change the course of her life forever. 

Which is a plot that really does offer up one grandiose tale. Since it expands upon the horrors of the first film, by revealing unto us how many facilities are out there creating more of these witches and it is also quite epic that there are forces fighting against such experiments. Giving rise to a turbulent supernatural world beneath the surface of our own, where powers and horrors untold thrive while we go about our day and our own unique tribulations and well… without spoiling anything, as this story progresses, the grand nature of this story only expands and explodes in a dynamic manner that takes your breath away. Making it clear that Park Hoon-jung really has put a great deal of thought into this franchise and how he wants it to connect beautifully and work toward something bigger as horror franchises did back in the 1980s. 
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However, the wonder of this film doesn’t end with the reintroduction of the horror epic, if you will. For this is a story that is also beautifully human from beginning to end. Since it features well-thought out, dynamic characters that we can instantly relate to. Not to mention, it knows where to inject humor to lighten the mood, most of which relates to wonderfully timed, food themed jokes, and all of this just helps to draw us into this universe further and it also helps… to shock us to no end. Because the powers that Ark 1 and others like her harbor, are indeed powerful and terrifying, and when they are put on display… the film holds nothing back in expressing what those powers can do to the delicate fabric of flesh that we think will oft protect us.

If anything, this is just… a stunning horror epic. One that features incredible visuals and incredible settings, and a story that really does captivate you. Courtesy of the fact that this story savors every moment of beauty and terror, so that one can properly appreciate the nuances of this story and its deeper meaning. Since you’ll find plenty of commentary and subtext regarding the importance of responsible science and research and…  it makes sure to also fill in the blanks regarding any mysteries or questions that you might have as the story plays out… so you feel ready to move forward from this story to embrace everything and every epic and gory moment, that the next chapter in this next great horror franchise is going to send our way.     

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Seven of ‘Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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When we last settled in to discuss the fascinating AMC series, Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches, we talked at length about how there was wonder to be found, in watching Rowan take hold of her agency and her destiny, and we also briefly discussed… how surprisingly easy it was for her to remove Lasher from her life. Because he really did lay down and walk away without giving it a second thought in that tale and time and reflection upon that episode… has made that decision quite unique in nature. Because clearly, the man/spirit is utterly obsessed with the Mayfair line and especially Rowan, and just disappearing and attaching to Tessa without giving it much thought… seems odd in retrospect.
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Well as it turns out, anyone who was concerned about that particular twist… was right to think that way. Because the next episode in this saga offered up all kinds of surprises regarding Lasher’s choice to leave, alongside dropping some surprises regarding the Mayfair family for that matter as well. A feat that ‘Tessa’ accomplished by having Rowan face quite the unexpected life development. In that, she sensed she was with child and used her powers to confirm just that, and well, that prompted her to return to the Mayfair estate and speak with Tessa. After all, Tessa was now the focus of Lasher’s attention, and could likely clarify what Rowan had seen in her mind and that of course… revealed the truth about the fact that Tessa was gone and with the horrible individuals that we met in the previous episode and that led to a grand assembly of the family to find Tessa, and thank heavens there was a sense of urgency surrounding this.

Because Tessa was indeed, in serious trouble in this story. For those individuals caged her akin to an animal and were eager to try and pick her brain and push her confess to her witchcraft to blow the world of witches wide open. Which she refused to do, repeatedly, thankfully, and she even went so far as to try and use her powers to subtly push the weakest individuals in this group to free her. But alas, she wasn’t able to properly push them to do her bidding and that brought her near the end of her life. Because this group was ready to burn her at the stake in the hopes of getting that ‘confession’ out of her, and without help she was going to perish, and well… that’s where our concerns about how easily Lasher relinquished his role came to the forefront of the story.

After all, the man simply didn’t respond to Tessa’s cries for help, even though he was supposedly attached to her. Instead, it turned out he was toying with Ciprien in that space between spaces. Wherein he hoped to torture him endlessly for meddling in the truth. But thankfully, Ciprien found a way to escape the clutches of this monster and in doing so… a horrific truth was revealed to him and the audience. In that… Rowan’s family line has been marked by the family and the Talamasca as… an experiment of sorts. One designed to fulfill a prophecy and one that would involve giving Lasher whatever he wants really. A revelation that shocked Ciprien to his core because it also became apparent that everything that was happening… was part of a master plan to bring all this prophecy to fruition.
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Wherein Rowan would feel she had no choice but to summon Lasher and fully submit to him for help and well… sadly that plan appeared to fall into place. Because Rowan was the one that found Tessa first, and of course, she was quick to teach this group quite the lesson in humility… with blood no less. Since she used her powers to tear them apart from within. But just when it seemed she had the upper hand, it tuned out she was outnumbered and outclassed from a weapon standpoint. For the powers of magic have no guard against the savagery of man and the power of the pistol and her wounds, and the seemingly fatal wound to Tessa… made it clear that immediate help was needed before word got out, and that pushed her to call for Lasher.

All of which made this episode, quite incredible when all is said and done. Simply because… just like that, this story has taken on new life since we now know that Rowan has been something of a pawn. One that has been carefully watched from afar to see when little nudges would help the pieces of the puzzle to come together. And that’s allowed for her grief to be exploited and manipulated to do the bidding of old white men that have some kind of twisted agenda at play. As to what exactly that is, we still aren’t clear, but obviously the show is ready to reveal its secrets and put Rowan in quite the difficult situation. One that might only get darker, when season one of this intimate and dynamic story, comes to a close. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Six of ‘The Last of Us’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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If there is one complaint that fans of zombie themed storytelling, and fans of post-apocalyptic storytelling in general, harbor, it would have to be that a vast majority of these stories… gloss over some key problems that people would encounter when the end of everything arrives at their doorstep. For instance, there is always somehow… plenty of food to be found in these worlds. When in reality, the collapse of our industrialized world, would make finding food something of a chore since so few of us know how to live off the land. Not to mention, hygiene would be of concern as well, since all the comforts regarding it, that we take for granted in the here and the now, would be gone… and proper hygiene is indeed essential to proper health.
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But… that core complaint is one that a majority of fans of this type of storytelling don’t voice often, since these stories tend to offer so much. After all, they thrill us with scares, and they feature intelligent commentary and epic situations for the characters to overcome and one can overlook the other stuff when there is a bloodthirsty zombie, and the friends it brought with it, are banging at a weak door. If anything, the only reason such a complaint is top of mind today, is largely due to the fact that there is an apocalypse story that is finally addressing such matters. Giving rise to the reality that those problems could easily be snuck into a story… since they were everywhere to be found in last night’s episode of The Last of Us on HBO. 

For ‘Kin’ is a story that saw Joel and Ellie finally make their way to Wyoming in the hopes of finding Tommy and in the hopes of arranging a meeting with the Fireflies to save everything and everyone, and after a tense encounter with a kind couple that forged their own way in the woods, and a treacherous winter trek across frozen bridges and landscapes… they finally found Tommy in the tiny little berg of Jackson, Wyoming and well… all of the things that would be troublesome to us in a time of crisis such as this… were put on display. Since this is where Joel and Ellie were able to enjoy a decent meal for a change after foraging for ages on end, reminding us of the fact that we have it pretty darn good when it comes to food while at the same time, showcasing the challenges that would go into eating at the end of the world.

But while it was wonderful to see a horror story finally address that, and hygiene through Ellie’s haircut and the reaffirmation that human biology doesn’t stop when the apocalypse comes calling… alongside a reminder of what creature comforts actually do for our psychology, just focusing on those elements would have made for a boring episode. Which could explain why such issues are so rarely addressed. So, instead, this particular tale opted to explore a matter that is incredibly critical to all of us and has only been touched upon a handful of times in post-apocalyptic storytelling. Specifically, how the end of the world would not harbor an ounce of mental health care for the survivors of the apocalypse and that is something that needs to be touched upon more, because this is an environment that would have a profound impact on a person’s psychological health and mental standing.

After all, they would be subject to horrors untold, especially if the dead were coming back to life or if people were infected and transformed by a rogue mutant fungal infection, and that would absolutely bring them down into the doldrums of depression and undoubtedly cause Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and well… handling that would be critical to our survival, the only question is… how? How does one do that in a world where therapy isn’t an option anymore? Well, that was handled through Joel primarily in this tale, through a journey that first acknowledged the reality that mental health issues would indeed be a thing in this world, as evidenced by the fact that Joel began to have anxiety attacks as he and Ellie encroached upon Jackson, and even while there. Simply because, that PTSD reminded Joel of the unresolved pain the world brought him and well… that pain pushed him to do what one would need to in this world to heal.
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Which is… to face that pain. To purge it and try to do one’s best to heal with chaos surrounding them and well… that happened here, and it was powerful to say the least. Since Joel confided in his brother the ache, he felt all this time after losing Sarah, and how that ache destroyed his confidence in the mission at hand and how he wasn’t sure he could complete it because of the pain and the fear. Not to mention, since Ellie learned about Joel’s past, that allowed for the two of them to have a stunning heart to heart about their own shared traumas and the lasting damage it caused both of them… and how they had to heal from it. Because without moving forward, there was no future for either of them in this broken and devastated world and well… purging the pain and learning how much he meant to someone again… did a lot for Joel. For it taught him to make things right via his own actions and via honesty and that led to a beautiful finale to this journey.

Wherein Joel embraced the mission and Ellie after trying to send her off to Colorado with his brother, which is where the Fireflies were posted, and the road trip that followed… allowed for these two to deeply bond and return us to the story at hand. Because their arrival at the University of Eastern Colorado, the base of the Fireflies, turned out to be somewhat fruitless. For they abandoned their facilities to reasons unknown and only left behind a map hinting at a move to Salt Lake City, putting Joel and Ellie on a new and perilous journey, one that started out… in a harrowing manner. Since the duo ran into hostile people while at UEC and Joel was badly injured in the fight. To the point where his fate remains up in the air because of his injuries, a move that will leave us counting down the minutes until next week’s tale to see if he is indeed okay, or if this story is about to take a devastating turn.

But while we wait, we can relish in a truly brilliant episode. One that genuinely took the time to further the realism already present in this story by addressing those very real-world problems. But above all, it is this episode’s frank examination of trauma and PTSD that earns it high marks. Since mental health is still something of a taboo topic unfortunately, despite the fact that it is important and needs to be treated with the same urgency and concern as our physical health. So, a round of applause is due to this series for putting it in the limelight and for pointing out the benefits of facing our pain and working to heal and well, it will be quite interesting to see what kind of a man Joel becomes from the lessons learned here. Provided of course, he can overcome his deeply concerning wounds. Until next time.  

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 406 of ‘Servant’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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When we last settled in to discuss the fascinating Apple TV+ series, Servant, we talked at length about how difficult it can be to excise a toxic person from one’s life. Simply because they hang on tight and more or less refuse to let go. Which causes more strife for a person that’s already over the situation and ready to move on without that person in their life. But what that episode didn’t explore… is why that toxic person is eager to just hang on. Because there comes a point where they know they’re not welcome and know they’re not wanted, so why stick around in a place where you’re despised? Well at it turns out, the next episode in this magnificent series, takes the time to answer that question.
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A feat that ‘Zoo’ accomplishes by inviting us back into the Turner home for a special day. Specifically, Jericho’s one and a half year old birthday party. After all, Dorothy was in the hospital when Jericho officially turned one, so there was no way to properly celebrate his big day. So, Leanne made a point to bring people together to make that happen. In fact, she even hired a live animal show to really make the day special, and she also made cake arrangements, the works. Granted, the whole party was a damn disaster because of the spiritual nature of the evil that Leanne now carries, since it spooked the animals and brought about trouble… but this did allow for us to come to understand why a toxic person sticks around.

Which in this instance, and probably others, relates more to the fact… that we give a toxic person something they need. A sense of hope perhaps, or a sense of family as was the case with Leanne here. Which is what she’s always wanted and rather than just walk away with her spin-off cult and live, she is opting to desperately hold onto what she has and what she believes it can become. And she is so broken and so dependent on that notion, that she will pull out all the stops to have it or have some semblance of it. Adding a tragic element to Leanne at last, one that does help us to see her in a different light. Granted, she’s still as toxic as can be, but it was nice to learn what drives a person like her to hang on.

However, while it was amazing to find a bookending lesson present in this tale, it wasn’t without its horror elements and issues with the cult. Since Leanne did come under fire from the neighbors once again, who genuinely tried to end her life to finally be done with this madness. And… we came to learn that Leanne was right to be suspect of sweet Bobby and Bev. Because, in the midst of the chaos of the party, Bev was quick to bring Leanne into the basement apartment to tend to a wound that a goat inflicted upon her. Only to reveal… that she was a member of the church, and she was ready to do what had to be done in order to bring peace and order to the church and the world. But alas, she was no match for the strange power that Leanne put on display in that fight.

Which informed us… she is far more capable than anyone ever knew when it comes to how she can inflict harm when threatened. That means, Dorothy and Sean will have their hands full in getting her out of the house, if they can do so at all. Since clearly, Leanne is digging in and of course… they still have to go through her lover to get to her. Another harsh reality that will complicate the freedom they desire. But while we wait to see what comes of those revelations, we can relish in one amazing tale. One that gave us perspective and tragedy and a hint of things to come, and well… that is going to make the wait for next week’s episode quite painful, since the tension is ramping up and the danger… is growing. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Six of ‘Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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There comes a point in our lives where we find ourselves in a difficult position. Wherein we realize that our life is not where we want it to be, and where we are surrounded by people that we don’t admire or enjoy being around. Which prompts us to ponder upon… how we swap those people out for people that nourish us and help us and of course… how we get on a path that is prosperous and fulfilling. More often than not, the answer to those questions involves quite the rough solution. Wherein we basically have to hit the reset button on our lives and cut ties with the toxic people that surround us, so we can seek out better people in our lives and focus hard on getting on the path we want so we feel fulfillment and purpose.
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Which is never easy, because likely the people we need to purge have been in our lives for some time, and sometimes… they’re the person we supposedly love, and cutting them loose will take great efforts. Not to mention, sometimes just hitting the reset button on our lives outside of our relationships… can be terrifying and unsettling. Since it means we are entering undiscovered country, often without a concrete plan to guide us. But… there comes a point where it must be done, and of course, once we commit, we must stick with our decision, regardless of the fallout. Because in the end, we only get one life and a handful of chances to find happiness and peace, and if we can do something to obtain that and escape a toxic period in our lives in the process… then so be it.  

If anything, the conundrum of doing what must be done to change our lives is top of mind today, simply because… it is a process that Rowan had to go through during last night’s episode of Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches on AMC. For when we caught up with her in ‘Transference’, she was at that crossroads. For despite escaping the Mayfair home and settling back in with Ciprien, Rowan was… unable to shake Lasher’s power and until she was free of him, and this strange madness surrounding her, this was to be her to life, and she could not reconcile that. So, she sought out help from her uncle and the family and came to learn that if she wanted to be free of Lasher… there was a way, but it came with some serious and ugly risks. 

For instance, losing her abilities as a surgeon and her ability to see and perceive well beyond that of everyday people, was a genuine risk, and… it would cost a life. Because Lasher had to be passed onto someone else within the family line. Which indeed put Rowan in a tough place. Since she was asking so much of someone else to bring forth her happiness. A difficult decision to say the least, one that weighed heavy upon her. But in the end, Rowan decided… to scorch magical earth and go ahead with the procedure, regardless of risk. That in turn led to her first real taste of magic and a harrowing moment in which she finally went the extra mile to be free of a toxic situation and was granted her freedom. Since Lasher was cast out… and attached himself to young Tessa. 
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A move that seemed to push this story into happy territory at last, and peace for Rowan. All because she made the tough call and did what must be done to put her life back on track. But alas, there are hints of forthcoming trouble when it comes to Lasher… as though he may not be so easy to cast off. Mainly because we learned how he came to be attached to the Mayfair line, courtesy of Ciprien’s work to understand the past, and those ties run centuries deep and are undoubtedly difficult to truly leave behind. Not to mention… it is strange that he did little to help out Tessa. For she poked and prodded that creepy anti-witch group that’s been stirring the pot, and they appeared to corner her in a negative manner when she went to confront them, and he did not respond to her cries for help in the slightest. As though there is indifference there… and a desire to be near a true genetic successor, and he may be simply biding his time to find an opportunity to return to Rowan’s world.

But while we wait to see what comes out of that unfortunate revelation, we can in the meantime, reflect upon a quality episode. One that saw Rowan immerse herself in a world she doesn’t understand in a brave manner and finally begin to reclaim her agency and her own power. Not to mention, this episode also deserves serious credit for adding in some commentary about the modern state of the world regarding how some view women. Since that group… said a lot of things we hear in the media now about women’s rights. Adding depth and brilliance to a story that really was about empowerment and seizing control of one’s life, and it will be genuinely interesting to see what comes next for Rowan. Now that she has stood tall and is ready to resume the life she left behind. Provided of course… Lasher stays away. Until next time.