Please enjoy this super-sized sneak peek of Episode One and Episode Two of ‘Poker Face’. Which you can see on Peacock tomorrow, 1/26/23!

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the season two premiere of ‘American Auto’.
​
It is definitely safe to say, that corporate America is a place where mistakes are often made. Some of them are small in nature. Such as when someone has a bad day on social media and makes the company go viral for something quite silly in nature. Or when someone doesn’t speak up in a meeting regarding how a product or service’s name will be utterly roasted by the internet. And sometimes, those mistakes are quite large in nature, such as when an executive does something stupid in the public eye or when a company’s product, isn’t finished and bad things happen when it hits the shelves. Yes, one way or another, mistakes will be made and we the public, just sit back and watch the fallout unfold and ponder upon an important question.
​
Specifically… how exactly do people at a corporate office, handle such matters on a personal level? Because they are encased in a special world that no one is privy to, one that is insulated as well. So, do they worry? Do they panic? Do they even care? Well, those are questions and that is a moment, that the season two premiere of American Auto on NBC works to answer and explore. For when we catch up with the C-Suite staff at Payne Motors in ‘Crisis’, they are in fact… in the midst of a major crisis. Because one of their prized vehicles that initially passed safety inspections and seemed to be fine, was in fact, not fine. Because one of its parts shipped faulty and the office was in scramble mode to get ahead of a disaster and uh, they didn’t.

Because the part failed in one car in the mountains near the factory, and that sparked a fire that went on for weeks and well… that helped us to learn just how a crisis is handled in a corporate office and well… it turns out the answer to all off those burning questions is… yes. Because this shook the Payne Motors team to their core and they absolutely panicked, well everyone but Katherine, and they did their best to smooth over the situation to no avail. Simply because, Sadie struggled to soothe the press when she stood up in front of them to assuage their fears, and others worried about blowback and even the crisis manager the company hired, couldn’t make this right and this was… a wonderfully satirical inside look at such a crisis, one that added a real human element to the whole thing.

For everyone’s fears and doubts and worries, felt real here, and their actions reflected real fear and real concern for a disaster that could have cost them their jobs. And it was nice to see this show once again, humanize the C-Suite at Payne Motors and remind us that while corporate American is oft vilified and sometimes rightfully so, there are people in these jobs, some of whom might be out of touch with the world, but people, nonetheless. But the humanity in this episode didn’t end with the general response to the crisis at hand… but through how the crisis ended. Because the Board wanted someone to take the fall for this and the falling stock prices, and Katherine was happy to fall upon that sword. In part because the payout was so huge that she wouldn’t need to work for ages on end and could just enjoy life’s little spoils.

But the fact that everyone under her was going to be wiped out as well, didn’t sit right with Katherine. She thought it should only be her to take the heat for a mistake that a CEO basically made, and that prompted her to do the right thing, and find a way to stay, and tie her future to her team’s future. So that they had a fighting chance to redeem themselves and this was just… wonderful. Since it spoke to Katherine’s growth as a CEO and how the team has jelled and how much they meant to her and that… sets the stage for a big second season. One that will force this team to do their best and probably indulge in their worst now and again, to bring Payne Motors back from a critical mistake and in the end, this was just an amazing series premiere. One that reminded us, that this really is a different kind of corporate America show. Since it can both lampoon and humanize a part of the world we are indeed detached from, and it will be interesting to see what wonderful acts the team conducts, and what hilarious shenanigans they get into as well, as season two of this wonderful comedy, continues along. Until next time.  

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Three of ‘Night Court’. To revisit the series premiere, click here.

Whenever we meet a person that is inherently good and optimistic in nature, let’s be honest… we are a touch skeptical of what they stand for. Because, the world is a mean place, and it has taught us some harsh lessons about human nature and its capacity for cynicism and cruelty. So, to see someone try and do right and try and be good, leaves one to wonder if they are simply someone who hasn’t lived the tough parts of life just yet and are ripe for a rude awakening, or if they are in fact… oblivious to the realities of the world. Wherein they live in their own little bubble of joy and should be left to it since there is a purity to that. But regardless of what people think about them, there is more to their push for good than we ever know, and it would behoove us to take a moment and learn why they embrace the joy in a world where a scowl is seemingly the norm over a smile.
​
If anything, our trepidation toward people that seem too good to be true, and the need to learn more about why they harbor such a smile is top of mind today, simply because such matters served as the focus of this week’s episode of Night Court on NBC. A feat that ‘Just Tuesday’ accomplished by having us bear witness to quite the important moment in Judge Abby Stone’s burgeoning career on the bench. For she was of course, eager to see people be saved as always and bringing the same cheer to the bench she always does, and on this particular night… she was determined to go the extra mile and really do some wonders with the system. Which pushed her to dig deep into why a particular individual kept committing a bunch of crimes. Especially since he had a clean record until recently, and unfortunately, digging so deep, led to quite the critical mistake.

In that, the reason the man in was question was breaking the law left and right, was because he was an undercover NYPD officer, and wanted to be locked up to complete his work, and sadly… Abby blew his cover. Which… devastated her to no end and made her believe that doing good was perhaps, quite the mistake. One that would hamper her career and that prompted her to drop the hammer on the court and that in turn, pushed Dan to do something drastic and call her out in the middle of a case. A move that ignited fury briefly in Abby’s eyes and prompted her to hold Dan in contempt of court. Which he of course abided by, but this simply wasn’t Abby. This was her changing before everyone’s eyes and it took some prodding from Neil to get Dan to really sit down with her to talk, and that’s when the central themes came into play.

Because in talking with Abby and opening up about his late wife’s former alcohol recovery, Abby was quick to open up about her own struggles with alcohol, and how the power of the drink, robbed her of many years of living and time with her father. Who always kept the faith in her and made sure to leave her with nothing with good memories and feelings of love when she did finally heal. And that pushed her… to try and be like him and do good and offer the same kindness he did, and when faced with ‘failure’ in her mission to be a perfect person and be a beacon of hope, she reverted to anger and shame to cope. But of course, Dan’s kind words helped Abby to come to understand that we can’t always win them all, and that it is better to make the mistake and remain true to ourselves rather than let this world bring us down.

But what matters more here, is that Abby’s admission to Dan, helped us to understand that people that are inherently good are not daft or oblivious to the darkness of the world. That instead, they may have seen its worst parts firsthand and endured real pain because of it, and that has pushed them… to do whatever it takes to try and improve a world they know can harm and can swallow people whole. Which means… we should keep people that are inherently good, very close to us, and take a page from their book, since they are on to something. All of which, makes this another beautiful episode from a series that continues to surprise, and still makes sure to keep us laughing. Because Gurgs and Olivia’s quest to keep the latter’s free stuff a coming, was quite hilarious and well, in the end, all this stunning episode does, is leave us ready for next week’s tale. So, we can see what heartwarming lessons and hilarious moments await us when court is back in session. Until next time.

There was a time, where the murder mystery was a vastly different type of show on television. For instance, you would rarely see technology be used to solve the crime in question, it was all about the clues and the intelligence of the gumshoe. Speaking of the investigator, they were also a different type of character back then. They were quirky yes, but not in the way we see them now. Since these days they have a very special and unique skill set that makes them adept to solving crimes or they have a certain sorrow behind their eyes, the kind that informs us that pain drove them into law enforcement in the hopes of healing. No instead, those old school gumshoes were just… different. They were people that saw the world in a unique light and were able to observe the little things that everyone else missed.
​
Which were quirks that were injected into supremely unique stories that were designed to use the character’s gifts to their full potential so they could cleverly solve the case and wow us along the way. But alas, it’s been ages since we’ve seen that kind of story on the airwaves and with the grittier and edgier mystery ruling the day, it truly seemed as though that old school type of mystery storytelling was gone forever. But leave it to Rian Johnson and Natasha Lyonne to say no to that reality. For next week will see their new mystery series, Poker Face, debut on Peacock. A series that works to bring those classic crime tales back to life, and well… what they’ve brought to the table is so wondrous and so special… that we absolutely felt the need to preview this series in advance, in a spoiler-free manner of course. Because one needs to experience the full majesty of this series, firsthand.

But what we can talk about today, is the sheer fact that Poker Face is a perfect revitalization of the old school murder mystery. A feat that it accomplishes courtesy of several key elements. For instance, this is a crime-of-the-week style show. Which was a staple back when those shows aired and that gives the lead character, Charlie Cale, something new and exciting to dive into and solve with her special gift. In fact, that special gift is the other key element that brings the past into the present. Since Charlie is an individual that can immediately tell when someone is lying to her, giving her unique insight into the moment and her desire to do right in the world, prompts her to dig further. Which makes her a modern-day Kojak or Columbo really, and the wonder of this story doesn’t end there. Because it also looks and feels like a classic 70s murder mystery. Courtesy of some wonderful cinematography that features that healthy 70s glow. 

Which is more related to some creative choices from the show’s Creator/Executive Producer/Lead Director Rian Johnson, and it should be noted he is making his true television debut here. Granted, yes, he’s directed episodes of television before, since he handled directorial duties on Breaking Bad here and there, but here… this is Rian overseeing the entire process, including a writer’s room. Something that ignited something special within Rian, as he informed reporters at the Television Critics Association Winter Press Tour this week, and that clearly brought forth a labor of true love. Something that motivated Natasha Lyonne to help shepherd this show to the airwaves, and star in it, and it also motivated Benjamin Bratt and so many others to do what needed to be done to join this series and partake in its wonder and truly… their decision was a wise one to say the least.

Because this series… is special. It draws you in and captivates you from beginning to end. Thanks to its unique mysteries that ignite one’s imagination and feel as though they could really take place in our everyday world and the best news of all, is that we don’t have to wait all that much longer to enjoy the majesty of this revitalization of a type of story that laid the groundwork for the genre’s current popularity. For Poker Face will make its debut on Peacock next Thursday, January 26, 2023, with a four episode premiere no less, and we here at NTG hope you give it a look and join us back here for more coverage. As we break down and savor every wondrous moment of a series that is refreshing and original, and a whole lot of fun.

​Rian Johnson (Creator/Executive Producer) Regarding His First-Time Experiences in Crafting a Television Show
“I honestly had a blast. I also loved the pace of it. I loved that, with each episode, we're in a different environment. It's a whole new cast.  It's like making 10 little movies. The fact that every three weeks, we were starting work on a new movie, it felt a little bit like ‑‑ whereas usually I'm used to doing the same one for several years. So, I'm a little worried that I've now, like, been amped up to the point where I'm going to need this pace of storytelling in my life. I think my producer is worried as well.”
 
Natasha Lyonne (Executive Producer/Charlie Cale) Regarding the Purity of Charlie Cale
“… sort of the thing I love so much about playing her, is she sort of really cares about the truth ultimately, which is something I identify with a great deal, and sort of looking out for the little guy.  And when she sees sort of something corrupt, it's kind of like a nose for integrity and sort of righting a wrong, especially if the type of person that's been misimprisoned, let's say, is somebody that her heart is with. So I think it's a lot of sort of nuanced fun games within all that, rather than just the conceited self.”
​
Benjamin Bratt Regarding the Opportunity to Work with Rian Johnson
“… when you get a phone call from Rian Johnson, it's an automatic yes. He is now one of my sort of handful of whenever/wherever guys.  He just has to name the when and the where, and I'll be there.”

It is definitely safe to say that society’s collective views on grief as a result of loss, are somewhat toxic in nature. Because so many people believe that grieving is a short and simple process, one that can be easily brought to conclusion through encouragement from friends and family and an iron constitution from the person that is grieving and well… those views are utterly wrong. For grief is a supremely powerful and complex experience. One that will end quickly if the person can reconcile their pain… or it can be a long process as those who hurt work hard to put the pieces of their very soul back together, and what those folks truly require in that moment… is incredible support and incredible understanding from the people closest to them.
​
But even then, there are no guarantees that such care will bring forth a smooth healing experience. For some will sink low and lash out because of how strong the pain can become and there is little else we can do but wait. Because that’s just how powerful grief can be and everyone will respond to it quite differently, and really… that delicate process and what it looks like when a person is at those low points, and how they eventually make peace is top of mind today, simply because the next episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation explored all of that in great detail. A feat that ‘Interface’ accomplished, by providing the viewer with a shockingly realistic presentation of the suddenness of death and how easily grief can overwhelm us.

For while the U.S.S. Enterprise was en route to try and help the crew of the U.S.S. Raman, some devastating news came across Captain Jean-Luc Picard’s desk. In that… the U.S.S. Hera had gone missing recently, and there was no trace of her crew… or her commanding officer, Captain Silva La Forge. Who of course, was indeed of relation to Lieutenant Commander Geordi La Forge, by way of being his mother. A reality that at first, seemed to not harm Geordi in the slightest. Since he went on with his duties regarding the Raman and what turned out to be her doomsday voyage into a gas giant. But as the episode went along and strange visions of his mother began to dance in his head, it became clear… grief was overtaking Geordi.

To the point where he refused to believe the reality that his mother had in fact, perished, and where he began to think up outlandish ideas as to how she and her crew might have survived, and that put his shipmates/friends in a tough place. Because they did indeed give him all the support he needed and even the honesty he clearly wanted to avoid. But that did little to assuage him, and in the end… it took a risky moment and salvation for an alien species… for Geordi to come to terms with the fact that his mother was gone. Hammering home, the reality that sometimes all we can do is sit on the sidelines while our loved ones hurt and do our best to comfort them and guide them. But deep down, they have to find closure and they have to make peace and that can be an ugly process, one that also requires forgiveness on our part, so those that hurt, can move forward.

If anything, this is quite the powerful episode when all is said and done. One that definitely hits harder in adulthood than it does in childhood. For a great deal of TNG fans likely saw this as teenagers or pre-teens and didn’t give the deeper themes a second thought. But in adulthood, this becomes a powerful journey, one that is relatable and gives one pause because it is likely a life experience in some capacity now and that allows for one to really appreciate the nuances and emotional beats of this story. One that really does present a simple slice of life that everyone will deal with in some capacity and that is what makes it so brilliant. For the human condition, and experience, and its glory and folly are what this franchise have always been about, and it is always refreshing to encounter a story, that nails what it means to be human… to a tee. Until next time.    

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 208 of ‘Leverage: Redemption’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
​
One particular reality about our world that many have struggled to reconcile over the past few years, is that there are police officers, who are not as noble as we expect them to be. And what makes that difficult for people to handle, is the sheer fact that there are high expectations that accompany wearing the badge and the gun. For the people that do so, are supposed to represent the best of us, and use their strong moral compass, and fine understanding of people to keep the streets safe, and diffuse dangerous situations, and protect us and serve us and make us proud in the process. So, to see what we’ve seen the past couple years is jarring.
​
But shocking as it may be, the proof is undeniable that there are cops out there, who embody none of that. Instead, the ones that have been in the spotlight have represented the worst of us and have rattled our communities and left us wondering… what comes next? For if corrupt officers are running about and performing acts that break the law… who watches the watchers, and who holds these guys accountable? Well… as it turns out… there are ways to punish police officers who go against their oath to protect and serve and whether we like it or not, it comes down to an obvious hero to set things right… and that’s us. Which may seem like a daunting task since uh, they have the gear and we do not. But thankfully, fiction can help us understand how we can in fact, be the hero in this instance, as evidenced by the next episode of Leverage: Redemption on Amazon Freevee.

For ‘The Turkish Prisoner Job’ is a story that plunges the team in the midst of a nightmare involving crooked cops. For a good and honest man named Romero Delgado is thrown in jail one fine day and when this is brought to the team’s attention, they quickly come to realize, he has fallen victim to some dirty cops up to some shady acts. The kind they have repeated multiple times in Romero’s neighborhood and well… with Harry in charge, the team went undercover to do the one key thing that needs to be done to defeat dirty cops… expose them for the crooks they actually are. Which of course they did, in a marathon long con manner. One that entertained and wowed as they sucked these suckers into quite the scheme. 

But truly, all smoke bombs and awesome prison yard fist fights, and fake deaths, and fake gators aside… the core lesson here really was quite moving and powerful. In that, the police are indeed public servants and if we the people see them doing something out of place or committing illegal acts… we have to speak up. We have to raise hell and we need to tell anyone that will listen what’s happening in our town and shine a light on it. Because that’s what cops like these absolutely hate and it does make a difference. As evidenced by the protests and trials that followed some of the darkest acts, we’ve ever seen a police officer commit on video. And while that isn’t the perfect answer, we have to start somewhere and that’s a fine a start as any.

In the end however, this was just, another intelligent episode from this wonderfully brilliant series. One that took the time to tackle a taboo and polarizing topic in our world since there are indeed dividing lines regarding how people view the police and their role in society. But as is always the case, this episode handled such discussions in a supremely objective and enlightening manner and of course, used a touch of humor to never allow for it to be overwhelming, and it deserves a round of applause for once again tackling the tough topics other shows shy away from. Plus, it was also incredible to see an alum from The Walking Dead in this tale, since Alanna Masterson from that series played Kira Simone here and it was just great to see her play the heavy for a change in a manner so compelling, that hopefully we are quick to act the next time we see a police officer serving their own interests over the public trust. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Three of ‘Koala Man’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
​
One of the most entertaining aspects of the comic book world, both film and comic book alike, is the sheer fact that they operate within universes. And what makes that so entertaining is that it opens up endless possibilities for storytelling. Where crossovers and new worlds await, the kind that genuinely allow for anything and everything to happen. If anything, it is so engaging and so enthralling, that is has in essence become a true staple of the industry, to the point where every superhero story out there takes place in an alternate universe or a multiverse of some kind and believe or not, that even includes the new entries, such as the Hulu series, Koala Man.
​
For this week’s episode, ‘The Red Hot Rule’, opened up with quite the yarn. Wherein we came to learn that the world Kevin and his friends populate is indeed an alternate world, one where a single man changed the course of history for the United States of America and Australia as well. Because since Australia is ahead in time because of time zone differences, its people learn about future events and with a little care, history altering news could make its way out to the world and that is what Maxwell did back in 1912. Since he sent out an emergency warning to the crew of the Titanic, and since that saved everyone aboard that boat, the Mummy present aboard that ship… made it to America. Then made it prosperous and then abandoned it after falling in love with the Russian Premier and that… brought Civil War to America and its collapse, except for Hollywood. That became its own island, and that act brought great punishment upon Maxwell as well, because the Red Hot Rule in Australia was to never abuse the powers of time. 

Which was… an amazing way to build a world and settle us into a traditional multiverse of sorts. Since it now explains the quirky nature of Kevin’s world, and how the Tradies got their powers and how there a supervillain is waiting in the wings to take Kevin on. All because mysticism and magic came to life in this universe and what’s interesting… is that the fall of America, played a big part in this episode as well. Because Liam was enamored with the wonder of American Americana, since he spent time in an American themed restaurant often, one opened by a former citizen of that nation named Chad Wagon. And well… the life of an American seemed so wondrous and carefree that Liam began to hang with Chad and embrace that lifestyle. Much to the chagrin of Kevin, and despite his best efforts to keep his son grounded in his own culture, Liam eventually renounced his Australian roots. 

But what made these twists and turns so worthwhile, is that it all related to a bigger plot. An evil one that Chad had brewing up his sleeve. For Americans in this universe happened to be the ultimate selfish people, and Chad was ready to stop at nothing to use Australia’s vast resources to resurrect the United States and all he had to do, was kill Nicole Kidman. Because it just so happened that she was the Queen of Australia. And he of course, planned to use Liam to make that happen during a pageant day in Dapto that her majesty was present at, and for a brief moment in time, his evil plans were successful. But thanks to Maxwell, who was off on an island trying to sort his life out, one that put him a minute ahead of his home… he was able to call in to Koala Man once he learned of things to come and change the future again. A risky gambit for certain, but one that saved Australia from a weak man with weak ideals. 

If anything, all of these elements, made for one brilliant tale. Simply because it offered up flawless world-building and amazing concepts. The kind that immediately engage a viewer and keep their attention from beginning to end. Plus, you can’t go wrong with a little satire on the American people, especially when one considers the state of the union and the strange polarization happening now, and as always… this episode was filled with laughs. Because the pageant was just ridiculously funny, as was Liam’s hilarious journey. But what matters most, is that Kevin is coming into his own as a hero, since he saved the day here with that assist from Maxwell, and that’s what we are here for. To watch Koala Man become the hero and protector of the good people of Dapto. Until next time.   

It is rare in this day and age for a comedy to immediately make a splash and impress audiences from the get-go, but the NBC series, American Auto, was able to accomplish that feat in its first year, for several reasons. For starters, this series introduced us to a bevy of quirky and dynamic characters. Ones so well fleshed out and so well written that we immediately fell in love with them, and their wonder and surprising relatability allowed for us to slip into a supremely unique storytelling world as well. One that took us into the heart of corporate America, at the very top no less. A move that allows for this show to satirize the dubious decisions that are made at that level and offers a fascinating accessibility to a world that the everyday world has a genuinely basic understanding of.
​
All of which made for an impressive first season. One that left us laughing, and of course, offered us unique insight into life at the top with a motley crew of corporate officers assembled from all walks of life and other various careers in the world. But alas, it has been some time since anyone has discussed the wonder of this series since it has been on hiatus since March of last year. But thankfully, our long and painful wait for more of this unique series is about to come to its end. For later tonight, American Auto returns to the airwaves for its second season premiere. Which we have seen in advance, and we were also fortunate enough to hear the cast and creators speak about season two at the Television Critics Association Winter Press Tour. Which means, now is the perfect time to preview this show, in a spoiler-free manner of course, to properly prepare you for another great season of storytelling.

Because season two of this dynamic series, does not miss a beat. Since we are plunged right back into this world in a supremely unique manner in tonight’s premiere. One that will address some questions we’ve always had about corporate America and how it handles certain situations. But that’s all we will say about the plot, since again, no spoilers. But what we can say about tonight’s episode beyond that… is that clearly everything jells in season two and feels wonderfully organic and there is good reason for that. For this cast has a season under their belt and are truly comfortable working with one another, and that allows for some real majesty to come to life with the chemistry and the storytelling. Which allows for jokes that hit even harder than the already hilarious ones did in season one and of course, adds depth and meaning the working relationship of the top brass at Payne Motors and this honestly, should come as no surprise.

For when the cast took the stage at the TCA Winter Press Tour, it was inherently obvious that there was a wonderful vibe among them. Which allowed for them to speak in a manner where sentences were finished and riffing took place and that matters, simply because… that’s the kind of stuff that truly makes for great television. Since it speaks to how this cast and the crew have tapped into something special, a lightning in a bottle synergy that allows for the jokes to work better and feel genuine in nature and that is something… you will see on screen often in season two. All of which adds an unexpected ‘slice of life’ feel to season two, something that is further enhanced by how the show always peppers in real world topics, in a comedic light of course, so it never strays into dramatic territory since this show… is all about the laughs.

Which it delivers in spades in season two. To the point where you might need to pause when watching, since the jokes come in rapid fire fashion this year and are hilarious enough that if you don’t pause when wiping tears from your eyes, you might miss the next great one. That makes season two of this dynamic comedy, must-see television. Simply because it remains that perfect blend of comedy and realism and satire, all of which we can use right now, and the best news of all, is that we are hours away from the debut of season two of American Auto on NBC. And we here at NTG hope you give it a look and join us here for our extended coverage via recaps, of this wonderfully refreshing and original comedy.

Ana Gasteyer (Katherine Hastings) and Harriet Dyer (Sadie Ryan) Regarding Season Two’s Character Dynamics
​
ANA GASTEYER: “It is a little bit of a cheesy reply, but I will say that I do think what's so fun about Season 2 ‑‑ this is always true of second‑season shows ‑‑ it's a workplace comedy, and we come together a little bit more as an "us against them" in a really reliable way.  So, the journey is a little ‑‑ we're more unified and less fractured as a community, I would say, in this season ‑‑
 
HARRIET DYER: “Yeah.”
 
ANA GASTEYER: ‑‑ which is fun.”
 
HARRIET DYER: “And we're better friends, which is nice. I think in the first season, it was really fun to play us against each other because I was scared of getting fired. I didn't know who she (Katherine) was. And now there's a bit of a gal pal/buddy comedy aspect of some of the episodes, which I really, really love.”
 
Justin Spitzer (Executive Producer) and Eric Ledgin (Executive Producer) Regarding the Show’s Satirical Balance

JUSTIN SPITZER: “I think we talk about a story and see where it takes us and try to avoid the trap of every episode being about that. I mean, we were all really excited about the commercial episode. If we were trying to make every episode that, it would get tired and we'd run out of topical areas anyway. 
 
And so you get a few of those.  And then other times, you kind of ‑‑ like you say, you gently talk about things in dialogue without really making it about that.”
 
ERIC LEDGIN: “But I do feel like there's a point, at least with the one that I can think of from this season and the commercial one, where ‑‑ like having a quick moment of, like, ‘Oh, are they going to let us do this?’ And that's usually a good indicator that that's maybe an exciting road to go down if it feels a little bit dicey or something.”
 
Justin Spitzer, Ana Gasteyer, Harriet Dyer, and Humphrey Ker (Elliot) Regarding the Show’s Accessibility to the Audience
 
JUSTIN SPITZER: “It's a challenge for us even in the writers’ room because we want it to be accurate, but we don't know that world either. I think with ‘Superstore,’ a lot of it we could probably guess at, or we knew people who had experience there, and here we don't. 
 
I think, you know, most of our episodes, though, if we need to set something up, we can do it pretty quickly. We're not trying to do anything so hyperspecific where if you don't intricately know the corporate world, you won't understand it.” 
 
ANA GASTEYER: “I think people who work in offices relate to it as much as people who are really into cars.  I mean, we are an automotive culture, so luckily most Americans like to talk about cars.” 
 
HARRIET DYER: “But also kind of ‑‑ the world we live in, there's always someone up higher than someone up higher, and you could kind of imagine what the C‑suite would be like for any kind of company. And I think it's like an imaginative space that we're playing in. Even if people don't know what it's like to walk into that level or even to walk into a car dealership, it's still ‑‑ then it's something different. You know?” 
 
HUMPHREY KER: “One of the things I love the most about this show is that it doesn't talk down to the audience at all.  I think there's often a real danger, particularly in the comedy sphere, that there's this feeling of, like, oh, you need to explain everything to an audience.  Will they get this?  Will they understand this?  Will this resonate with them?  I think if you make good TV, people enjoy it.  You know, I've done some writing and some pitching and some this, that, and the other, and have run into those instances where they're like, ‘Well, hang on.  This is a niche thing.’ 
 
And you think, ‘Well, how many people have ruled over Westeros in America?’ No one has, but they love watching people do it because it's a fascinating and interesting thing. So if you can hit dynamics that are truthful to people, then that will, I think, always be interesting, which is great. Well done us.”

When we meet someone new for the first time ever, we do our best to learn everything we can about them and rightfully so. Because we want to know how this person is going to fit into our lives, and the only way to do that, is to learn about what makes them tick and drives them. So, we can see if they fit the mold for what we expect a friend or prospective partner to be and what’s amazing… is that there are so many ways to do that. After all, there is conversation, which allows for us to see how we click, and this is where we can ask the burning questions on our mind. Not to mention, there are activities we can take part in that give us an idea of how we will function together, and really… regardless of what method we choose, it is the time we spend together that matters most. Since time will tell us all.
​
If anything, these tried-and-true methods to making new friends and dating, have served us well. Since they do indeed provide us with the answers that we seek, and if by chance it doesn’t work out, all we lost was a little bit of time in our long and fruitful lives, and we move on accordingly. But for some, that’s not a good enough resolution. For they want to know quickly and ponder upon if there is a way to speed up the process, only to learn… there isn’t. But what if there was? What if we could figure out a way to laser focus on what we want to know about other people and anything else we were curious about? Would that be as beneficial as we think? Well, it just so happens, that the next episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation, takes the time to ponder upon those curiosities.

For ‘Liasons’ is a story that saw ambassadors from the world of Iyar, come aboard the Enterprise to learn about the Federation, while Captain Jean-Luc Picard would travel to their world and well… it didn’t take long for this story to inform the crew and us, that this species was… intense in nature. Since one ambassador was oft angry and eager to challenge Lieutenant Worf. While another… was eager to just enjoy the sweet spoils that the replicator could send their way. And while those odd behaviors were happening, the captain was dealing with a crisis of his own. In that, his shuttle crashed on a hostile planet, and his pilot appeared dead, and his only hope for survival, was a badly broken woman named Anna. Who had spent seven years on this rock and was hoping for salvation and love, and she thought Picard might bring all of that to her.

Which led to a bevy of conflict and frustration, since those dealing with ambassadors in some capacity hadn’t a clue what to expect or why their duties were suddenly so strange and well, a blow-up moment from Worf, one that should have cost him dearly as an officer… came to reveal that this was all… an intense, ‘learning’ event. For this somewhat strange species, didn’t understand some of our more complex emotions and decided that just indulging in pleasure and anger and love… by force if need be… would teach them great lessons. Of course, most of those acts ended poorly since Worf had to resort to blows to teach his lesson and Picard did not fall in love since that he was plunged into an over-the-top storybook scenario. But, since these beings were of another world and unaware of how human customs went, they were forgiven, and the audience was left with some valuable lessons and answers regarding those questions.

In that, yes… it would be possible to rush it all and go for broke in getting to know what you want to know about another person. But unless that is agreed upon up front, it will be a damn disaster. If anything, the chaos that came from this… taught us that we should forgo such thoughts period and just… enjoy the process as it stands. Since that allows for people to really savor the wonder of getting to know one another and keeps the thrill of discovery going. But all lessons aside this was very unique and intriguing episode. Because it really did play a fascinating game of ‘what if?’ with the Enterprise crew and allowed for us to experience a bevy of magnificent storylines and while this may be an alien of the week, one off story, it definitely sticks with you because of its creativity and how it takes the viewer to task by asking us to reflect deeply upon how we communicate with those we love and those we are curious about. Until next time.

It’s been a little while since we talked about the upcoming STARZ series, The Venery of Samantha Bird, and understandably so. Because it takes time to assemble all the essential personnel and cast members for a television series, and the folks behind the scenes have been working hard to bring together the right people to bring this series to life and they’ve made some wonderful progress.
​
For earlier today, STARZ announced that seven cast members have been added to the show, as have more, key behind the scenes personnel and well… with that in mind, here are those new cast and crew members for a series that is shaping up to be a powerhouse drama.

‘STARZ has announced seven series regulars joining Katherine Langford in its upcoming drama series “The Venery of Samantha Bird.” Additionally, Larysa Kondracki (“Power,” “Better Call Saul”) has been added as executive producer and will serve as director on four episodes, including the pilot, and Nicole Jefferson Asher (“P-Valley,” “The First Lady”) has joined as co-executive producer.
 
Finn Jones (“Iron Fist,” “Swimming with Sharks”) will play Jake Minot, the fearless, ruggedly handsome and quietly charismatic former childhood sweetheart of Samantha Bird. It's been many years since they've seen each other, but when they meet again during Sam’s trip to New England, they pick up, it's like no time has passed.
 
Francesca Reale (“Stranger Things”) will play Ellie Bird, Samantha’s confident, intelligent and pleasantly outspoken youngest sister. Articulate and well-educated, Ellie has a close relationship with her sister and they seem comfortable talking about anything and everything…but all the while Ellie is quietly keeping a watchful and protective eye on Sam.
 
Embeth Davidtz (“The Morning Show”) will play Carol Minot, Jake's mother and an old family friend of the Birds. 
 
Brenda Strong (“Unprisoned,” “13 Reasons Why”) will play Nan Bird, Sam’s mother.
 
Adam Faison (“Hellraiser,” “Everything’s Gonna Be OK”) plays Nigel, a local New Hampshire-based podcaster, and close friend of Ellie Bird.
 
Shalini Bathina (“Little Voice,” “Long Slow Exhale”) plays Dr. Priyanka Yalen. Reserved and sophisticated, she’s Jake’s therapist, much to the chagrin of her husband.
 
Tyrone Marshall Brown (“Love Is,” “Power”) plays Gideon Yalen, Priyanka’s husband who has concerns about Jake, and his wife taking him on as a patient.
 
It was previously announced that, Katherine Langford (“Knives Out,” “13 Reasons Why,”) will lead the eight-episode drama in the title role of Samantha.
 
Visiting family in New England, Samantha Bird reconnects with her childhood sweetheart and falls headlong into a seemingly perfect storybook romance. But underneath their fever dream lurks a more unsettling interpretation of this affair. “The Venery of Samantha Bird” is a haunting portrayal of addictive love and the repercussions that a relationship has on the families in a small New England town.
 
In addition to Kondracki and Asher, Salvatore Stabile (“Waco”) is executive producer, Jessica Rhoades (“Station Eleven,” “Sharp Objects”) executive produces through her Pacesetter Productions shingle, with Rachel Polan serving as co-executive producer, Lisa Vinnecour is  co-exec producer and Jessica Yu (“Fosse/Verdon,” “Billions”) is consulting producer.  The series is created by Anna Moriarty, who also serves as executive producer.
  
About STARZ
STARZ (www.starz.com), a Lionsgate company, is a leading global media streaming platform committed to delivering premium content that amplifies narratives by, about and for women and underrepresented audiences. STARZ is home to the highly rated and first-of-its-kind STARZ app that offers the ability to stream or download STARZ premium content, as well as the flagship domestic STARZ® service, including STARZ ENCORE, 17 premium pay TV channels, and the associated on-demand and online services. In 2018, STARZ launched its international premium streaming platform STARZPLAY, now LIONSGATE+, to provide subscribers access to bold, curated storytelling. LIONSGATE+, coupled with the STARZPLAY ARABIA joint venture in MENA and Lionsgate Play in South and Southeast Asia, has a footprint that extends across the globe. STARZ and LIONSGATE+ are available across digital OTT platforms and multichannel video distributors, including cable operators, satellite television providers, and telecommunications companies around the world. In February 2021, STARZ launched #TakeTheLead, a multi-faceted and innovative inclusion initiative expanding its existing efforts to improve representation on screen, behind the camera and throughout the company.
 
About Lionsgate
Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF.A, LGF.B) encompasses world-class motion picture and television studio operations aligned with the STARZ premium global subscription platform to bring a unique and varied portfolio of entertainment to consumers around the world.  The Company’s film, television, subscription and location-based entertainment businesses are backed by a 17,000-title library and a valuable collection of iconic film and television franchises. A digital age company driven by its entrepreneurial culture and commitment to innovation, the Lionsgate brand is synonymous with bold, original, relatable entertainment for audiences worldwide.
 
About Paramount Television Studios 
Paramount Television Studios is a leading content studio, developing and financing a wide range of cutting-edge and entertaining television programs across all media platforms for distribution worldwide. The studio’s robust slate includes THE OFFER (Paramount+), GREASE: RISE OF THE PINK LADIES (Paramount+), FATAL ATTRACTION (Paramount+), AMERICAN GIGOLO (Showtime),  “STATION ELEVEN” (HBO Max), “SHANTARAM” (Apple TV+), “TIME BANDITS” (Apple TV+), “DEFENDING JACOB” (Apple TV+), “HOME BEFORE DARK” (Apple TV+), Tom Clancy’s “JACK RYAN” (Prime Video), “REACHER” (Prime Video), “CROSS” (Prime Video), “THE SPIDERWICK CHRONICLES” (Disney+), “JOE PICKETT” (Spectrum Originals), “THE HAUNTING OF BLY MANOR” (Netflix) and “THE HAUNTING OF HILL HOUSE” (Netflix), among others. Paramount Television Studios is a subsidiary of Paramount (NASDAQ: PARA; PARAA), a global content company with premier television, film, and digital entertainment brands. ’