It is definitely safe to say, that there has been a slight tinge of nervousness in the hearts of the many fans of Anne Rice’s Immortal Universe on AMC Networks. Simply because, while they know that the new show about the Talamasca is in development, and that season two of Mayfair Witches will be arriving next year, there’s been no news about whether or not the keystone show of this universe, Interview with the Vampire, will be getting a third season. And the quality of this season’s storytelling from the show, has only made that nervousness grow. As though there’s that outside chance Sunday’s story is the end of the line of utter brilliance.
​
But fear not. For earlier today, AMC dropped the most wondrous news. In that, season three of this iconic and bold series… is a go… and it will feature some unique twists and turns for certain. The kind that will allow for us to spend more time with Lestat de Lioncourt, courtesy of some disdain on his part regarding a bold plot point for season three. One that we will share with you now, for AMC was kind enough to send over all the details regarding season three, so you can celebrate in the wonder of more stories from the world of Louis and Lestat.

‘AMC Networks today announced it has renewed the critically acclaimed series Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire for a third season, days before the finale of its second season on AMC and AMC+. The first series in its Anne Rice Immortal Universe, Interview has attracted a loyal base of passionate fans, excellent reviews and has the rare distinction of receiving 98-point scores for both its first and second seasons on Rotten Tomatoes.
 
AMC’s Anne Rice Immortal Universe now includes three series: Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire, Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches, which is currently in production on its second season, and the recently greenlit Anne Rice’s The Talamasca (wt). 
 
In season three, resentful of the perfunctory portrayal in the trashy bestseller “Interview With The Vampire,” the Vampire Lestat sets his story straight in a way only the Vampire Lestat can—by starting a band and going on tour.  Gabrielle. Nicholas. Magnus. Marius. Those Who Must Be Kept. They join Louis, Armand, Molloy, Sam, Raglan, Fareed and others we can’t tell you about yet on a sexy pilgrimage across space, time and trauma. No Auto-Tuning. No Trigger Warnings. All Feels Amplified.
 
The current second season of Inteview stars Jacob Anderson, along with Sam Reid, Eric Bogosian, Assad Zaman, Delainey Hayles and Ben Daniels. The series is executive produced by award-winning producer Mark Johnson (who oversees AMC’s Anne Rice Immortal Universe), creator, writer and showrunner Rolin Jones, Mark Taylor, along with Christopher Rice and the late Anne Rice. The highly anticipated season two finale is this Sunday, June 30 on AMC+ and at 9 p.m. on AMC.
 
“When you buy the rights to 18 Anne Rice novels that have sold more than 150 million copies, in your wildest dreams you hope there’s a show as good as Interview on the other end,” said Dan McDermott, president of entertainment and AMC Studios for AMC Networks. “What Rolin has done with these stories and characters, working so closely with Mark, as the steward of this universe, has exceeded the loftiest version of our expectations. We can’t wait to see where this creative team takes the series from here and know we are walking alongside an incredibly loyal and passionate base of fans who feel as strongly about this material as we do.”
 
Jones said: “Thank you to the brilliant casts and crews of the first two seasons that got us to this day. Thank you to the rabid, beautifully unwell fandom that scaled the castle walls to get us to this day. Thank you to Dan McDermott, Ben Davis for the funds and tools to continue the great work of dramatizing Anne Rice’s extraordinary novels. And sincere apologies to the family and friends of actor Sam Reid, for the possession that continues to this day. Monsieur L extends his promise to return his body upon cancellation (may that evening never come.)”
 
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.’

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 207 of ‘Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire’. To revisit the previous episode, clickhere. Also, this article contains discussions of domestic abuse, which made be triggering to some individuals.
​
One particular aspect of popular media that is genuinely fascinating, is how domestic abusers are portrayed. For they are in many ways, one-dimensional villains. Who only harbor raw anger and disdain for the world and the person they abuse and while that is a quick overview of who and what they are, because they are miserable and angry creatures… the real depth and nuances of them are never put on display. They’re just plot devices designed to rightfully instill fear, but they should… be showcased in vastly different light. Not a positive one mind you, but one that showcases how they think, how they work and how they manipulate and abuse people. So, we can see the cowards they are and the darkness in their souls. To help others recognize their nonsense, and escape their clutches, and to help us spot people in trouble.

Because this is an aspect of our world that needs assistance with awareness, and these people… need to be alone and away from others because of the garbage they are and thankfully… that simplistic presentation of them is fading away. Because there is an understanding now that we need to present them in a more honest and realistic light and thankfully, one particular series is leading the charge in such matters. For Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire on AMC, has explored domestic abuse and its trappings and cyclical nature, in great detail, and it may be the first show to properly showcase the inner workings of an abuser. A feat that it accomplished in a stunning manner during last night’s episode of the show, courtesy of the trial of the century in ‘I Could Not Prevent It’.

For Louis, Claudia and Madeleine were indeed put on trial for breaking the sacred laws of the Vampire Order and for the attempted murder of one Lestat De Lioncourt, and of course… Lestat was on hand as the prosecution’s star witness. Which led to a horrifying trial to say the least. One where our favorite vampires were beaten into rough physical shape to keep them docile and unable to fight back and where, they were constantly bombarded with pain and lies as the wrong story was told before the studio audience that served as the jury. Granted, this trio threw a few barbs out now and again, and Louis escaped death via Armand’s help, despite being sold out by him, but in the end… this harrowing sequence of events ended with the end of Madeleine and Claudia. Who burned horrible and bright before the audience, which brought great pleasure to Lestat… who finally had his revenge.

But while that made for heartbreaking and devastating television for certain, the kind that did not let the audience off the hook emotionally, it is what happened in the midst of that trial that allowed for us to see the inner workings of an abuser. Because of course, Lestate De Lioncourt is larger than life in this tale and has always been a boisterous and powerful vampire from a presence standpoint. Which meant he spent a great deal of time speaking to the crowd before him and spoke deeply to how he was the victim in this mess. For Louis was really the monster, according to Lestat. Who manipulated and twisted words around to lull Lestat’s gentle heart into a false sense of security, to tear it asunder. And of course, he only resorted to violence to defend himself; to teach the bully a lesson and he so lamented such pain because all he wanted was to love Louis deeply.
​
Which was of course… nothing but bullshit. No instead, Lestat’s lament showcased… how abusers operate. Which is… through powerful manipulation and gaslighting, and by always playing the victim. Because at their core, they’re people that have no sense of self-worth and are bitter over that and the life they’ve been dealt. So, they learn how to charm and how to attract so they can sucker their victim into loving them and admiring them, giving them a sense of value and self-worth at last, and to maintain that they project their darkness onto the abused to purge it. But it always comes back, and they must repeat the cycle, and they’ve done such a great job of getting their talons into the person they ‘love’ that they know exactly how to maintain their status quo. And if by chance their abused lover stands up, then they become the victim in question… to engender pity and sorrow to once again feel value. Making them pathetic creatures really.

All of which was put on display in this episode in stunning detail through the trial and thankfully, this story made it clear how to defeat abusers when they force their way back into someone’s life, as they always do. In that, they are to be paid no mind, paid no tribute. For that robs them of power and wounds them deeper than one can know. Which, in the end, gave life to a powerful and brilliant episode of this series. One that finally put such acts on display in a palatable manner that all can follow and spot, and of course… broke our hearts in the process. Because it was awful to see the full picture of Lestat’s abusive nature and of course… Claudia did indeed deserve better. But all we can do now is wait. Wait to see how Louis will confront the real monster of the story, when the season two finale arrives next week. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 207 of ‘Reginald the Vampire’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.

One particularly fascinating aspect regarding the hit SYFY series, Reginald the Vampire, that we’ve discussed often this season, is how the show is doing some revolutionary work with the vampire genre. For these bloodsuckers are facing some incredible odds to see another moonrise, not to mention the show is diving deep into concepts and scenarios that we just have not seen the genre deal with and well, the show is showing no signs of slowing down when it comes to this. Since this week’s episode pondered deeply upon a new emotional conundrum for Reginald and his friends to deal with, while revisiting one that was explored a few weeks ago.

Which are feats that ‘Terminal Eternity’ accomplished… by bringing our vampire friends to the brink of the end of their world. For they were now days away from Bolestro’s apocalyptic reckoning and well, that prompted them to do something we’ve never seen vampires do… and ponder upon their end. Which is of course, something we all have to do at some point in life, and we know what kind of inventory we must take when the bell begins to toll. But what does an immortal creature do with such knowledge and well, it turns out… they struggle deeply to process their end. To the point where everyone here decided to try to just live their (undead) life to the fullest with their final moments at hand.

For Nikki and Ashley that meant, enjoying one last Christmas holiday together, their favorite holiday, of course. Because it was obvious that Nikki wouldn’t see another, so this was the perfect time to decorate the tree and just embrace joy across the board, and Reginald took part in something similar in this tale. Since he and Sarah went on the camping trip they always wanted to go upon and spent as much time together as possible, to just find that joy… but alas… no one could. In part because Uriel dropped by to kidnap Sarah for a hot minute, but also because… no amount of joy could reduce or excuse the fact that death was around the corner for so many and soon… so many would have to go on without their friends and family.

Which made for sobering moments for everyone really. The kind that saw Claire go find her dad and tell Reginald that it wasn’t right to put the weight of the world upon her. Which sealed the vampire’s fate, and made for a melancholy story that informed us, that vampires would not do well with facing the end. Especially the ones that lived for so long, and while that was fascinating to watch and ponder upon, this episode still had more amazing moments to offer us. Such as watching Todd process his own grief in a bold and brave manner, and of course… Uriel had his revenge here by outright killing Sarah at the end of the episode, which brought back the concept that was explored in ‘Watch the Sunrise’, specifically, how an immortal would handle grief and for a vampire… that also went poorly. 

Since Reginald tried to resurrect Sarah before quite the surprise hit the vampire world. In that, our heroes began to disappear from our world and entered another, as did Sarah for that matter as well. Giving rise to a unique cliffhanger since we haven’t a clue if this is some kind of vampire rapture or something more and of course, we are dying to know where Sarah’s essence is at this moment, courtesy of one brilliant tale. For this one explored so much, while also setting the stage for the forthcoming finale, and it did so in a manner that was just smooth and masterful, and compelling and moving. Courtesy of those grand explorations regarding the human condition and how they might apply to creatures of the night, and now all we can do, is count down the minutes until next week’s tale, to see that incredible cliffhanger be resolved and to see… if vampirekind can be saved. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the motion picture, ‘Exhuma’.
​
The evolution of the horror genre is quite the sight to behold. For it started out as nothing more than a general exploration of our most basic fears. Our fear of death through ghost stories, our fear of losing control through the werewolf and our fear of technology and progress through stories such as Frankenstein. And while that sustained fans for a while, down the line the genre grew into so much more, by becoming a bastion for social commentary through stories that examined key elements of our world through new monsters on the screen. Since films like Dawn of the Deadpondered upon commercialism and materialism via the horror that is the zombie, and the evolution didn’t end there.

Because in modern times, the genre has become the place to explore our most intimate fears. Such as the horrors of yesterday and the traumas we carry and that’s allowed for films like Doctor Sleep to help us understand how those horrors exist within all of us, and yet, there are still more evolutions ahead. For the next step in evolution for horror, involves not only acknowledging the ghosts we carry with us wherever we go, but in also offering up step by step guides as to how we handle those unpleasant ghosts and for proof… then look no further than a brand-new release on Shudder entitled, Exhuma.

Which is a film that features individuals that can in fact, speak with the spirits and use their knowledge of them to bring peace. In fact, some make a living from that and that is who we spend time with, in this story: a shaman named Lee Hwa-rim, and her understudy, Yoon Bong-gil, and their regular associates Kim Sang-deok and Yeong-geun. Who have high hopes when we meet them in this tale. For they have been put under contract by a supremely rich client to end his family’s long standing spiritual curse, and this contract will put them on easy street for the rest of their lives. But sadly, the work proves to be far more dangerous than expected, especially when they discover that a great evil surrounds the job, giving rise to one incredible fight to save their souls and the souls of others from the darkness they encounter.

Which at first glance seems to be nothing more than a good old fashioned ghost story, one that speaks to why we shouldn’t mess with the past, but it quickly becomes apparent this film harbors so much more from a messaging standpoint. After all, the family curse in this tale, quickly becomes an allegory for the sins of the father and the pain and traumas our family imparts upon us and how it is dangerous to not resolve such matters. Since it truly does haunt and brings forth generational trauma and rather just pointing that out, the story dives deep into how we solve and confront that and outright resolve it. Giving rise to a perfect blend of horror and learning, and the majesty of the guidance this film features doesn’t end there.
​
After all, this story does indeed feature quite the evil, one that extends well beyond what a parent is capable of when they are plain terrible. This one goes bigger and ponders deeply upon how, from a cultural standpoint, so many ignore the shady past of their culture and the mistakes made by others in a collective effort to move forward. But this film correctly points out, cultures cannot just forget about past transgressions and their impact, we must confront them, teach others about them so that people understand how we achieve such a folly and how to never replicate it. Which is a message that has more gravity now than ever and truly brings about, a fascinating film that offers so much to the viewer than mere entertainment and big monster moments.  

It really is a guide for healing on both an intimate and global scale and make no mistake about it, it’s scary as hell as well. Courtesy of its spiritual ties and the ties to the past that haunt both country and man, and the shocking moments and visuals it features here. For this one doesn’t skimp on the gore nor does it skimp on the eerie nature of ghosts, and that makes for one delightful horror feature. One that captivates with its detailed and intimate storytelling, and amazing performances and its incredible lessons. The kind that truly inform us that horror is going to become more about healing and learning than the terror since it is truly a safe space, where the worst-case scenario will help us face our demons and lay them to rest. 

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 206 of ‘Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
​
One thing that we can all agree upon, is that modern society has quite the complicated relationship with tradition. For it offers both benefits and problems. From a beneficial standpoint, tradition helps keep wonderful memories alive. Because we lose people along the way and traditions that are bound to a family can keep those who have left, active in our hearts and in our minds. Not to mention, some traditions are quite fun to the say the least and bring a bit of joy into the lives of folks that take part in them, giving us all good reason to practice them and continue to pass them down from generation to generation. 

But as mentioned, there are issues that come about with tradition as well. Because some of our traditions are quite archaic in nature and keeping their memory alive is well, uncomfortable and perhaps not necessary. Not to mention, sometimes they outright cause harm and even in a family setting they can elicit bad memories and reopen old wounds. Yet, we cling to those with the understanding that they are somehow important and are something we’ve ‘always done’. If anything, the horror of tradition is top of mind today, simply because some ugly ones were put on full display in the next episode of Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire, and that made ‘Like the Light by Which God Made the World Before He Made Light’, quite the stunning tale.  

However, it did not seem as though this episode was going to be all that shocking at first. Mainly because it showcased, a calmer, more beautiful coven in Paris. For Claudia had her wish and was no longer working on stage and instead went about cleaning the theater in silence. And of course, Santiago had new material to work with, the kind that would allow for him to really sink his fangs into characters that were far juicier and far more compelling for an ancient actor that loved the craft. Allowing for it to seem as though, peace was on the horizon and joy would be found. Especially since Armand also left as leader of the coven and cozied up to Louis. But in the silence of the night, Claudia was stirring up trouble by no longer holding to tradition in the slightest.

After all, no vampire is to ever expose their true nature to everyday people. But Claudia did. Mainly because her only friend in the world, Madeleine, came under fire from the very individuals that were disgusted with her choices during the war. Which prompted Claudia to act, feed, and clean… and expose the fact that she was a vampire to an everyday human and well, that changed everything for their friendship. For such kindness bound them on a fundamental level, which while unwholesome because of age gaps emotionally and physically… happened none the less because of how broken and lonesome these two souls happened to be and of course, this spiritual union spit in the face of more vampire traditions along the way.
​
For not only were vampires exposed once again, but Claudia had another ask of her vampire friends. In that, she wanted to be as close to Madeleine as possible, and the best way to do that, was to have her sired into a vampire. A move that Armand opposed but Louis was happy to help with, and that came at an incredible price. For it turned out, that Santiago, the new de facto leader, was watching and waiting to see if Claudia and Louis would hold to the rules and respect traditions regarding who was able to join the club, so to speak. To keep the vampire line pure and well, since they did not, they worked out a deceptive plan with Armand to be fed information… so that those who broke the rules could be captured and put on display in front of an audience at the theater. Wherein they would go on trial. One presided over by none other, than Lestat De Lioncourt. 

All of which set the stage for an explosive, shocking follow-up since Lestat will now return to wreak havoc via revenge. But in this moment, what mattered more, was the show’s powerful exploration on the problem with traditions. Because all uncomfortable stuff aside, what vampirism held to here, and has held to for centuries in this universe… punishes and imparts pain left and right. Since it prevents happiness and prevents any measure for peace in one’s soul. For these beings are so bound to the past and pain oddly enough and well, that reality made it clear how troublesome traditions can be and that perhaps… it is best we let the rotten ones go so people don’t have to suffer so much. But alas, in this universe, suffering is all that awaits, and we will now be counting down the minutes to see what kind of pain will be imparted by Lestat’s vengeful return to the spotlight. Until next time. 

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 206 of ‘Reginald the Vampire’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
​
It is definitely safe to say that season two of the hit SYFY series, Reginald the Vampire, is quite eager to combine the vampire mythos with the realities of our world and well… why not? Because for far too long the vampire has languished amid stories that focus on obsession, love, and… sparkles… over juicier topics, the kind this show has explored in detail. Such as whether or not immortality is worthwhile and what it might do to a person’s psyche and how the undead would respond to life problems that no longer apply to them, and well… the show is showing no signs of abandoning this anytime soon. As evidenced by this week’s fascinating tale. 

For ‘Blood, Sweat, and Glitter’ pondered deeply upon how the human condition might not leave us in the world of vampirism and even in the afterlife, a feat that it explored through three key storylines. One of which involved Angela. Who was trying to use the magic book to figure out how to beat Bolestro and was failing left and right. Since all she did was summon more trouble with a friend. A friend that prompted her to just get away from this madness for a bit to breathe and think. Not to mention, there was a sorrowful loss in this story, since a broken and shattered Uriel thought that Todd was about to become a vampire and decided to fulfill his role as protector of the afterlife by killing Mike to prevent that… when in fact, Mike let Todd know… there would be no turning.

All of which spoke to how sometimes our best efforts in life to improve a situation never work and we need to step away and clear our heads before trying again and how… fear can make us do awful things and well… that really spoke to how very real human elements are present in this world regardless of life or death. But of course, the centerpiece of this exploration of how humanity remains was handled by Reginald, Sarah, and Maurice. Who made it to the Pacific Northwest to find Abraham and instead… found quizzes and questions regarding some of their lives. Since Sarah and Maurice saw scenarios in the magical place that Abraham built, that tasked them with whether or not they made the right choices and asked them what path they wanted to walk. Scenarios we often play in our own heads. 

Meanwhile, Reginald found his way into Abraham’s lair and was treated to one hell of a rager. An end of times one no less, hosted by a fallen angel named Santos that was eager to just make everyone in attendance have a great time and forget about the end. A reality that reminded us how far we will go to forget bad times, and thus, Reginald worried that he wouldn’t speak to Abraham at all and leave empty handed. A worry that was further compounded by the fact that Santos spoke to and showed Reginald the supposed place of his death, which really seemed to be another distraction to keep them from talking to Abraham. But he finally appeared and opted to not help in the fight. Mainly because everyone came to learn that he was the son of Bolestro and wanted to stay out of this fight. Making it seem as though our heroes lost here, but Abraham did offer up one particular solid.

In that, Claire was the real key here to perhaps saving all of vampirekind, and that will be a lot of weight for grieving Claire to bear. But while we wait to see how Claire handles her potential fate and how Reginald will reconcile what he learned about his own future here, we can celebrate another amazing tale from this series. One that once more, injected so much humanity into its story, giving new life to the vampire genre (pun intended) courtesy of a journey that really did postulate that little changes in the afterlife once we’ve crossed over. But what matters more is that this sets the stage for some powerful moments for this series as we barrel toward the season’s end and a grand showdown with Bolestro. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 205 of ‘Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire’. To revisit the previous episode, click here. Also, this article contains discussions regarding domestic violence and abuse, which may be triggering to some individuals.
​
There is an unfortunate and disgusting mantra that surrounds toxic and abusive relationships. In that, people that step into them are foolish or weak in nature. As though they are nothing more than suckers that found their way into a situation where they should have recognized all the red flags that were in front of them, and that ugly view is only compounded further by the fact that pity is put upon those who escape one situation to find themselves in another. As though they are lovelorn fools that cannot learn from their lessons and well, what makes this so unabashedly gross in nature, is that it is an ignorant view that doesn’t take into account so many other factors.

Such as the fact that genuinely toxic individuals and abusers, don’t offer red flags and troublesome moments. They are as charming as they come and learn quickly how best to prey upon someone they wish to control or manipulate through and through. Alongside the fact that such relationships create trauma and PTSD in some cases, the kind that requires great individual work and leaves that individual vulnerable to more of the same since those types of monsters are always lurking in the shadows, looking for a fresh victim. Which means it can take some time to properly heal from such messes and learn how to best avoid them, and we should not offer disdain and pity, but support and understanding… to help that healing process along.

If anything, this hard truth about such matters, and how history sometimes repeats itself for survivors of toxic behaviors and outright abuse from a lover… is top of mind today because the next episode of Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire on AMC, explored that reality in great detail, courtesy of a gift from Armand. For he went on a weird and cruel hunt in ‘Don’t Be Afraid, Just Start the Tape’, and that gave Daniel a chance to sit down with Louis and discuss… the troubling echoes in Daniel’s mind and the strange discovery he made in the files he was given. Regarding how there were distressing pictures of his first interview with Louis. That discussion, allowed for both men to uncover the reality, that they had gaps in their memory of that night, and of that week. Since they also discovered that while the interview did end at dawn, Daniel and Louis were inside that apartment for far longer than he expected.

Simply because they collectively remembered that Armand came in that first morning and interrupted Louis’ feeding upon Daniel and that led to a blow out between the two lovers. The kind where horrible things were said by both parties, to the point where Louis committed self-harm by stepping into the sun. But the week in that house went deeper than a nasty fight between two lovers. Because as Louis and Daniel healed, Armand made it apparent… that he was the not the kind and gentle lover he presented. He was no better than Lestat (and he was even speaking with Lestat from afar) for he was an angry and bitter man, and an abuser that wanted nothing more than to have a submissive lover, to have that horrendous control and emotional power men like him crave, and he was biding his time to find the right moment to manipulate Louis into becoming just that.
​
Which in turn allowed for him to gaslight, manipulate and smooth talk his way into being in charge when Louis was at his lowest, and the reward for submission… was peace… a second chance for Daniel and decades of Louis’ idea of the perfect relationship. Until this moment of course, since this story ended with Daniel and Louis offering a unified front over the truth they uncovered. But what matters more here, is what this story showcased regarding the central theme. Because it took that mantra and perception of abuse survivors and threw it out the window to truly explore how this happens again and how hard it is to recognize and escape. Because up until this point, Armand truly seemed to be a wounded heart in need of mending. But that was the trap he and so many of his ilk lay down to bring in those who are vulnerable.  

Because they know that healing hasn’t not taken place, and that the heart wants what it wants and that creates such an unfortunate cycle. Which does not make any of those folks weak or lesser, just in need of guidance and care and understanding and at the moment, Louis has that. He knows what he is up against, what he fell into and hopefully Daniel’s support, since he too was toyed with and abused… can help him heal. But that aside, this was… a powerful and brilliant episode when all is said and done. For it touched upon the complex truth regarding a topic we fear more than vampires, and it offered up a way forward that few stories that even tackle such matters remotely do. Making this an important story for certain, one that will indeed have a lasting impact on the horror landscape, and the story itself… since Louis is now at a powerful and critical crossroads. Until next time.

It really has been a wonderful year for fans of The Walking Dead Universe. For we were treated to the return of Rick and Michonne, via the powerhouse series, The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live. Which delivered an epic story as promised, one filled with redemption and quite the surprise for the Civic Republic Military. Not to mention, we’ve been getting snippets of season two of The Walking Dead: Dead City, something that has fans amped and today… we received more wondrous news about what lies ahead. 
​
In that, AMC Networks let it be know that September 29th, 2024 will bring season two of Daryl Dixon, allowing for us to see what became of Daryl after his decision to stay in season one and of course, with a title such as The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon – The Book of Carol, we also now know that Carol will be back in the mix and searching for her best friend for life, all of which has the Dead world abuzz with joy and well, to sweeten the pot and make us even more excited, AMC dropped a bonus gift upon us. In that, we got some first look phots from season two and some updated details as well. All of which we will share with you now, so you can prepare yourself for the return of this magnificent series.

‘Ahead of its debut at the Tribeca Festival this weekend, AMC Networks announced today that The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon - The Book of Carol will premiere Sunday, September 29 at 9pm ET/PT on AMC and AMC+. New images of the highly anticipated six-episode second season of the series, which stars fan-favorites Norman Reedus and Melissa McBride, were also released.

The new season picks up where The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon left off, following fan-favorite characters Daryl Dixon (Reedus) and Carol Peletier (McBride). They both confront old demons while she fights to find her friend and he struggles with his decision to stay in France, causing tension at the Nest. Additionally, Genet (Anne Charrier)’s movement builds momentum, setting Pouvoir on a violent collision course with the Union of Hope in the fight for France's future.

The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon – The Book of Carol stars Reedus, McBride, Clémence Poésy, Louis Puech Scigliuzzi, Laika Blanc Francard, Charrier, Romain Levi and Eriq Ebouaney, and is executive produced by showrunner David Zabel, Scott M. Gimple, Reedus, McBride, Greg Nicotero, Angela Kang, Brian Bockrath, Daniel Percival, Jason Richman and Steve Squillante.
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.’

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 205 of ‘Reginald the Vampire’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
​
Over the course of the past few weeks, we’ve talked at length regarding the sheer brilliance of season two of Reginald the Vampire on SYFY. Simply because this show, has unleashed its full potential upon the masses, by offering up powerful stories that have explored incredible corners of the human condition, and the show has even toyed with putting our undead friends into scenarios that the creatures of the night really haven’t dealt with before. Giving rise to an intelligent and beautiful season of storytelling, one that has left us eager to see what other powerful observations await us down the line as Reginald and his friends work to find agency and a future free from Bolestro’s fury. 

But alas, sometimes in storytelling… one must take a slight break from the cerebral to not overwhelm the audience with too much to ponder upon, and to also… move the plot forward. For we are here to enjoy a juicy story through and through, and see it come to resolution and that’s really what this week’s episode was all about. For the clock was ticking in ‘Undead Bedfellows’ and Reginald and his friends were rightfully getting nervous about battling Bolestro, and that prompted Reginald to come up with a wild plan to survive. In that, if by chance they recruited some of the vampire world’s biggest and strongest warriors and its most feared vampire witch, alongside getting hold of Uriel’s sword since there was the belief it would kill Bolestro, then perhaps they could lure Bolestro to a location of their choosing… and defeat him.

Which was a plan that Maurice loved and oddly… so did Justine, the witch in question. Which made it seem as though, this crew finally had a plan in place that would come together beautifully, especially since Uriel actually handed his sword over to Sarah because of the massive crush he has upon her. But alas, it did not take long for this plan to go south. Mainly because, Justine, and her arrogance, prompted her to let loose in a bad way. Wherein she used her powers to supercharge fear in people so the blood was flavored just right, allowing for her to kill with impunity and leave a calling card to make the moment worth her while, and well… Maurice could not have this happen on his watch. For he was the Deacon and he expected better of his bloodsuckers and that prompted him… to just put her down
.
A move that pushed Reginald to learn some new magic skills to try and summon Bolestro to keep the plan alive, and well… since his brilliance cannot be understated, he did indeed figure out how to summon an angel. Which led… to an early showdown between our heroes and Bolestro, one that ended in utter disaster. Simply because the sword gambit did not pay off, and well… such an act basically helped Bolestro to double down on his belief that vampires were not worthy of salvation and this left our heroes beside themselves. Because they failed, plain and simple and it seemed as though there was no hope going forward. But Reginald and his big brain came to realize that perhaps not all was lost, and if he and Sarah, and Maurice could find Abraham down Washington way… then perhaps they could find a solution to their problem.

One that is now growing in nature. Manly because Uriel felt betrayed and was emotionally broken over what happened with his sword and what Sarah decided to do here, and that… prompted him to align with Bolestro once more, and no good can come of that. In the end however, this was just… a delightful push forward regarding the plot. Since our heroes managed to anger a powerful angel even more than before and even handed him allies. Raising the stakes and pushing them to their limits and that is never a bad thing. Since Reginald reminded us that we are sometimes at our best when put under incredible pressure and well, it will be interesting to see what the hunt for Abraham brings about, and what lessons await us along the way as Reginald fights to save all of vampirekind. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the motion picture, ‘Stopmotion’.
​
If there is one particular truth that every writer, and artist in general, will attest to, is that they do indeed inject a bit of themselves into every piece of work they create. It might be by inserting a location or a character name from the story that motivated them to become a writer, into their own creation, or it might be an image that reminds them of childhood, but one way or another… there is that delicate insertion of one’s very soul into a story. All because that makes a story personal and special, and some… take it one step further. By using their medium to do more than scratch a creative itch, they use storytelling and art… to outright heal themselves. 

Because creating a story in any form, can be therapeutic in nature, provided the dark stuff is permanently left on the canvas or the page, and for most creatives that is easy in nature. Since there is in the trained creative mind, a separation point. One that allows for the creator to understand they are purging something toxic into a world where it is permanently captured and can no longer do harm, via a safe environment they can leave at any time, if this quest to heal becomes a touch overwhelming. But again, it takes a little training to make that happen, and must be done at the right time… or disaster can strike. As evidenced by the new Shudder feature, Stopmotion.

For this is a story that introduces us to a woman named Ella Blake who is indulging in creativity in the most forced manner possible. For her mother is noted stopmotion animation artist, Suzanne Blake, and she is in poor health and needs Ella to help her finish her magnum opus before she passes. But a stroke, changes that plan, and leaves Ella wondering what comes next for her in life. For up until this very moment, she’s only known her mother’s creative commands and she is now immersed in a story she does not understand, and outright sorrow since it seems her mother will soon pass. But the decision to temporarily relocate and start her own work, with some pressing from a young girl in her new apartment building, gives Ella quite the idea to work upon. A story that will help her cope with her pain, but there’s just one problem with this. In that, she doesn’t understand the separation point between creativity and reality, and that may lead to disaster the further she digs into this therapeutic tale.

Which is the perfect way to explore the theme at hand. Because that truly allows for the viewer to learn a great deal about the creative process. Such as how creatives come up with ideas involving real life, and how powerful those ideas can be when they take hold, regardless of how dark or edgy they may be. But most important of all, it showcases what happens when a creative mind cannot separate the story from reality, and the dangers inherent to that. Since the lack of a barrier plunges Ella into a twisted waking nightmare, where the story finds her at the worst possible moments and makes her life a living hell. Wherein she scares her loved ones and scares herself in a manner that is unhealthy and dangerous, and that makes for a powerful story for certain, one that at first glance, seems more dramatic than horrific.
​
But have no fear, there are scares to be found in this tale. After all, the story that Ella and her young friend wish to tell is quite twisted and ripped from the pages of our very psyche. Complete with musings upon our fears of the unknown and fears of losing control. And of course, make no mistake about it, Ella crosses some serious lines to get the shot she needs or to make the story work properly, and that brings about one gory and terrifying third act. Where Ella goes WAY too far in telling her story, to the point where one is shockingly uncomfortable with what is playing out on the screen and where one hopes that Ella wakes up from this nightmare before she truly takes this vision further than it ever needed to go. 

But while those elements could easily carry this feature no problem, it still has more wonders to send our way. Such as the fact that it feels incredibly real and that comes courtesy of some amazing performances, with Aisling Franciosi (Ella Blake) leading the charge here. For Aisling sells the pain that Ella experiences in this tale, and her downward spiral, with a visceral honesty that immediately leads us to believe we’re not watching a movie, but a live stream, and that only adds to the wonder of an incredible horror feature. One that truly taps into the zeitgeist of elevated horror by putting the power of trauma and the dangers of unregulated creativity on display, and the end result is a story that is chilling, sorrowful and downright frightening. Thanks to its no-hold barred examination of what could happen if someone truly lost themselves in a dark and twisted story.