Written by John Edward Betancourt March really is quite the special month. For this is when the world begins to signal its farewell to winter courtesy of less snow and more sunshine, giving rise to a deep internal need for us to head out into the world ASAP and experience fresh air and green grass again. Only for us to learn… that’s really an end of the month activity. For there is still a chill in the air and some days require that winter coat. Which means, there are still plenty of days to spend inside, the kind that will require entertainment and well… STARZ has us covered when it comes to that. For they recently released their March 2024 Programming Lineup and it… is perfectly designed to help get us through that weather transition. Courtesy of adventurous movies that satiate that call of nature, since this month will be host to Jurassic World: Dominion and Expend4bles, and of course… there’s some can’t miss television present as well. Since March brings forth the third season of the highly popular series, BMF, and it will also bring forth the farewell of the highly beloved series, Hightown. But that is of course, just a sampling of what to watch on STARZ while you prepare to return to the outdoors, so to help you plan those chilly viewing nights further… here is the complete March 2024 lineup for STARZ. 'STARZ announces its programming highlights for the month of March, featuring the season three premiere of “BMF” and series finale of “Hightown.” On the film front, Honk for Jesus. Save Your Soul, Jurassic World Dominion, Back on the Strip (2023), Vengeance and Expend4bles join the STARZ app this month. This month, STARZ celebrates Women’s History Month with a focus on female directors of color every Sunday with Honk for Jesus. Save Your Soul (3/1), Yellow Rose (3/10), Joy Ride (3/17), The Namesake (3/24), and Pretty Red Dress (3/31), as well as a Women’s History Month Collection on the STARZ app. Ahead of this year’s Academy Awards, take a look back at past nominees and winners with the “Award Winning & Nominated” collection on the STARZ app, which includes The Father, Pain and Glory, If Beale Street Could Talk, Spotlight, Nightcrawler, Django Unchained, Zero Dark Thirty, The Social Network, The Thin Red Line, Independence Day, Casino, Speed, The Fabulous Baker Boys, Broadcast News, Wall Street, The Poseidon Adventure (1972), and Planet of the Apes (1968), among several other titles.' STARZ Original Series All Key Art Courtesy of STARZ. “Black Mafia Family” (“BMF”) returns for a third season on March 1, continuing the storyline of the inspiring true legends of two brothers Demetrius “Big Meech” Flenory (Demetrius Flenory, Jr.) and Terry “Southwest T” Flenory (Da’Vinchi), who rose from the decaying streets of southwest Detroit in the late 80’s and gave birth to one of the most influential crime families in the country known as the Black Mafia Family. Season three of the highly anticipated gripping crime and family drama premieres on Friday, March 1 at midnight on the STARZ app. On linear, it will debut on STARZ at 8:00 PM ET/PT in the U.S. and at 9:00 PM ET in Canada with new episodes available each Friday. This season we parachute into the early 90’s with Meech moving to Atlanta where Black excellence is prominent and Black businesses are thriving. Meech seeks to build upon the BMF empire in the south that he and Terry fostered in Detroit and rise to the top of the Atlanta drug scene. In Atlanta, he meets his new love interest, Angel (Kadianne Whyte), an exotic dancer. Terry remains in Detroit to take care of the business and his second child with girlfriend Lawanda (Sydney Mitchell), while juggling his ongoing affair with love interest Markisha (La La Anthony). Yet, as Meech expands BMF outside of Detroit and new local competition comes after Terry, both brothers take on enemies more ruthless in their ways than they have ever seen who threaten to destroy the whole empire. BMF continues to humanize the choices of the brothers’ business, and their pursuits of the American Dream. Friday, March 1 “BMF” *Season 3 Premiere Episode 301, “Detroit vs. Everybody” Linear Premiere Friday, March 1 at 8:00 pm ET/PT, 7:00 CT Meech officially relocates from Detroit to Atlanta in search of expanding BMF during the height of the city’s international expansion. Terry remains in Detroit to maintain the BMF enterprise and to start a new life for his family with Lawanda. Meech learns that the move to Atlanta will be full of pleasant and unpleasant surprises. Friday, March 8 “BMF” Episode 302, “Magic Makers” Linear Premiere Friday, March 8 at 8:00 pm ET/PT, 7:00 CT Meech focuses on expanding BMF into Atlanta while Terry balances maintaining BMF in Detroit, new restaurant business venture, and his family. Terry looks for ways to generate revenue for BMF, yet Meech comes through with Colombian connects to keep them afloat. Friday, March 15 “BMF” Episode 303, “Sanctuary” Linear Premiere Friday, March 15 at 8:00 pm ET/PT, 7:00 CT Jack the Rapper Weekend, a national Black Radio Music convention designed to showcase and celebrate Urban R&B and Hip Hop Music in Atlanta turns into chaos when Meech, Glock, the MK’s, the Red Dogs collide. The Techwood Boyz are determined to capture Meech and stage an attack against him and Stacks at Meech’s home. Meech is determined to protect his family and foster BMF in Atlanta starting by purchasing a home with the help of his father Charles. Friday, March 22 “BMF” Episode 304, “The Return of the Prodigal Son” Linear Premiere Friday, March 22 at 8:00 pm ET/PT, 7:00 CT Meech returns to Detroit upon Colombian connect Loco’s request to pick up weight to build business for BMF. The amount of weight is insurmountable for him to handle alone thus he solicits help from Terry and the Detroit team. Stacks and Glock scheme to kill off Meech and Remi to control the scene in Atlanta, yet Meech returns to Atlanta with his duo O.G., Terry to help with the expansion of BMF. Friday, March 29 “BMF” Episode 305, “The Battle of Techwood” Linear Premiere Friday, March 29 at 8:00 pm ET/PT, 7:00 CT Meech and Terry rediscover the Black Mecca of Atlanta when Terry returns with Meech who connects him to new allies to build their business and increase cash flow for the BMF team. Both brothers learn the process of breaking into the scene in Atlanta will not be as easy when they are met with the old guard who wants to retain control.  “Hightown” concludes its third and final season with new episodes available Friday March 1 and Friday March 8 at midnight ET on the STARZ app, all STARZ streaming and on-demand platforms. On linear, they will air on STARZ at 9PM ET/PT in the U.S. and 10 pm ET in Canada. Fishery Service Agent Jackie Quiñones is off the wagon and off the force in the final season of “Hightown,” but that doesn’t stop her from careening into the dark underbelly of picture-perfect Cape Cod to save a missing woman and a murdered sex worker. Meanwhile, her former colleagues Ray Abruzzo and Alan Saintille are focused on taking down drug syndicates, but despite their best efforts, the drugs keep flowing. This attracts Shane Frawley, a gangster from Boston looking to cut himself in on the Cape's drug trade - and making an enemy of Osito while he's at it. Alliances are made and old loyalties are questioned in this beautiful but corrupt place where nothing is as it seems. Friday, March 1 “Hightown” Episode 306, “Chekhov's Gun” Linear Premiere Friday, March 1 at 9:00 pm ET/PT, 8:00 CT Owen is more dangerous than ever and he’s taking Sarah with him. Jackie unsuspectingly closes in on the prostitutes’ killer and Charmaine and Osito resume their partnership. Friday, March 8 “Hightown” Episode 307, “Big Fish” Linear Premiere Friday, March 8 at 9:00 pm ET/PT, 8:00 CT The case is coming to a close. Ray and Renee are backed against the wall and must make a deal with the devil. Shane’s all-business approach brings sworn enemies together and a chance meeting helps Jackie pick a side in the coming battle. Notable Film Additions to the STARZ app in March Available March 1:
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Notable Film Stunts and Collections available on the STARZ app in March
Notable Marathons: STARZ
STARZ Encore Westerns
About STARZ STARZ (www.starz.com), a Lionsgate company, is a leading 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. STARZ is available across digital OTT platforms and multichannel video distributors, including cable operators, satellite television providers, and telecommunications companies. 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.
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Written by John Edward Betancourt Sadie Laflamme-Snow, Chyler Leigh, and Andie McDowell as Alice ‘Ali’ Dhawan, Katherine ‘Kat’ Landry Dhawan, and Delilah ‘Del’ Landry in Episode 205 of ‘The Way Home’ – ‘Long Time Gone’. (Photo Courtesy of Peter Stranks/Hallmark Media.) ©2024 Hallmark Media.
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 205 of ‘The Way Home’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
If there is one particular question that comes up during the healing process, it would be… why must we let go of the past? Which is, a valid question. After all, the past means a lot to us. For it is filled with memories both good and bad, that define the person we become. Not to mention, there’s always a worry that just letting go, means so much will be lost to the passage of time, and no one wants that to happen. So that question comes up, one that sadly… is grounded in a sense of misunderstanding. Because no one in the process of healing needs to outright forget their past and pretend it never existed, that’s impossible. No instead, what we are misinterpreting in that shaky moment, is the need to let go of its power over us. So, we can view it objectively and understand its impact upon us in every way imaginable. So, we understand how to heal from it and how to make peace with it. Not to mention, its power over us… prompts us to miss out on a great deal… in the moment. For in the here and the now, there are people offering us support and love and we are missing out on relishing in the wonder of that. Plus, we’re just plain missing out on life and well, this conundrum is top of mind today, simply because it was put on full display in the next episode of The Way Home on the Hallmark Channel. A feat that ‘Long Time Gone’ accomplished, by way of the arrival of Founders Day. An event where family and legacy were celebrated and that turned out to be the perfect way to explore what letting go of the power of the past, and the importance of living in the moment can in fact do for us. Because Alice took that healthy lesson to heart. For a day of reflection allowed for her to see her family and her life objectively and discover how much wonder surrounded her and all of them. Which prompted her to live in the moment and enjoy it and see all that it could offer, which was plenty. Since it meant the chance at a budding romance and joy, and even a chance to try and reunite Elliot and Kat in a romantic setting/manner. Because there’s no time like the present to start over, and well… that is the right way to look at this and experience life through and through, but not easy to embrace when you deeply hurt and aren’t ready to listen. Because Kat… wanted no part of the moment. She was instead, laser focused on Jacob and the past, and the strange interactions the Landry’s of the past were experiencing with Thomas Crowe and well… that sadly… showcased the folly of not letting go of the past. For we came to learn over the course of her journey, that it can make us bitter and angry and unwilling to try new things. Since she spurned a chance to start over with Elliot to stay in the past. Wherein she learned that doing so… changes nothing. For what is done is done and those fixed moments cannot be changed, and even the Pond understood this, considering the harrowing manner in which this particular episode ended. Giving rise to real questions as to whether Kat can accomplish what she wants. But while we wait to see what comes out of that shocker, we can celebrate another smart tale. One that showed both sides of the coin to that all-important question, while also showing us some of the work that goes into getting there. Since Elliot did struggle with letting go to be present in the moment but found a way to do so. All of which made for another satisfying and emotional episode, one that featured joy for Del as well, and truly put shock into our hearts with that ending. One that we will indeed be talking about for ages and will of course prompt us to tune in on time next week. To see how it is resolved and to also learn more about the healing process from a family in the thick of it. Until next time. Watch ‘The Way Home’
Written by John Edward Betancourt Monica Raymund as Jackie Quiñones in Episode 305 of ‘Hightown’ – ’29 Days Later’. (Photo Courtesy of STARZ.)
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 305 of ‘Hightown’. To revisit the previous episode, clickhere.
When it comes to the end of a story, be in print or on the silver or small screen, each of us have an expectation regarding what we want to see resolved. For some, it’s all about the plot, and those folks have to know how a complex story will come to its end. For others, it’s about experiencing something epic in nature, for the story has established that it is going out with a bang and people must experience that breathtaking conclusion through and through. But sometimes… we are eager to reach the end, simply because… we want to see what will become of the characters. Of how their journeys will conclude and well… that’s precisely why so many of us are eager to see where the final season of Hightown on STARZ will take us. Because it is the characters that inhabit the Cape, that have captivated us the most. For these are individuals that we have connected with on some fundamental level because they are as flawed as we are and we in some form or fashion, have shared in their struggles, or know someone who has. Which invests us in their journeys and has left us all of us wondering how their journeys will end, especially with consequences for their actions now coming to fruition and well, it would seem the next episode in this majestic and groundbreaking saga, may be hinting at what paths the heroes and villains of the Cape are planning to walk as this series wraps up. A feat that ’29 Days Later’ accomplished… by having the worst-case scenario take place. In that, out of the blue, Frankie Cuevas was released from jail. After all, there was nothing left for him to be held on, and that allowed for him to walk and that brought forth… a firestorm of trouble. The kind that saw Osito ponder deeply upon his next steps. Because he survived that prior attack, and while he was in the hospital, he came to learn that his operation was all but done. Which meant, he had a decision to make. Stay the path, fight, and build, or perhaps get away with his love and enjoy the time he had left, in a battered fashion yes, since he was now down an eye… but he would live. Which… just wasn’t enough for him. Because he needed agency, he needed to be atop the heap and that led him to an old friend, a second chance, and a hint… that his ending might be mired in darkness, and he wasn’t alone.  Amaury Nolasco as Frankie Cuevas in Episode 305 of ‘Hightown’ – ’29 Days Later’. (Photo Courtesy of STARZ.)
Because with Frankie on the streets, Renee was terrified, and rightfully so. After all, Frankie has never been known for offering grace and mercy to anyone that has crossed him, and he hinted at harm here. By taking the time to visit Renee at her place of work, and letting her know that punishment was coming, and to ensure its arrival… he made sure to throw some nuggets Alan’s way. All of which, finally brought Renee and Ray to a place of raw honesty. Because she needed to confess, and well… so did he, and in that moment… they had a chance to figure out a better path. One where Ray could find emotional fulfilment and actual peace to stop relying on sex to heal him, and where Renee could finally have her clean break. But this duo instead held onto each other, and the toxic emotions they provide one another, giving rise to real worry about their fates as well.
However, while it was sobering to know that so many characters may be headed down a dark path, there’s hope for some in this story. After all, Alan remains as honest and vigilant as ever and Jackie Quiñones… is a reformed officer. For she finished her time in rehab, and this time… she took everything that was sent her way seriously. Because she knew, she had to embrace positive change in her life. Or darker days were ahead, and she no longer wanted that. So, she stayed clean, and did some fine work because of it. To the point where she is ready to work a case that will offer justice for so many, and not just satisfy Jackie’s emotional needs. Giving rise to real hope for Jackie and a sense that her ending, might be the best one of all. That is provided of course… this series doesn’t surprise us in the final two episodes that await, and that is quite possible. For life throws curveballs, the kind that once again prompt us to look at our decisions and make changes as needed or put us promptly back into the world of old haunts. But clearly, the endgame is being assembled now and there is real danger back on the Cape with Frankie on the loose, and that, and the framework for endings that was assembled here… made for one important tale. One that informed us the end is indeed nigh and we should be prepared for anything and everything. Because realistic characters only come from shows that resemble the realities of life, and just as it is in our world, anything can happen on the cape, and it has… and it will be fascinating to see who will enjoy salvation and who will wallow in misery, when this three-year journey comes to a close. Until next time. Watch ‘Hightown’
Written by John Edward Betancourt  Photographs of Dermot Mulroney and Evan Jonigkeit Courtesy of Storm Santos, Tommy Agriodimas, and STARZ. The old saying, when it rains, it pours, holds true to a great number of aspects in our lives, including the world of Hollywood. Because once a movie or a television show has its foundation laid down and moves toward shooting, all kinds of announcements start pouring forth, and that’s top of mind today… because we are in the midst of such a downpour, courtesy of STARZ. For hot off of the announcement that Brittany Snow will be the joining the series, The Hunting Wives, STARZ let it be known that two more cast members have joined the roster as of today.
For earlier it was announced that Dermot Mulroney and Evan Jonigkeit will appear as series regulars on the show, and will play Jed Banks and Graham O’Neil, respectively, and well, this once again informs us that this series will be filled to the brim with both good writing and great acting. Since this duo are quite the pickup for the show, and to properly celebrate their arrival in the series, here are all the details regarding their casting, courtesy of STARZ. ‘STARZ has confirmed that Dermot Mulroney (My Best Friend’s Wedding, Anyone But You) and Evan Jonigkeit (“Sweetbitter,” “Archive 81”) will join as series regulars in its upcoming drama series “The Hunting Wives,” alongside previously announced co-leads Malin Åkerman and Brittany Snow. STARZ ordered eight episodes of the addictive, twisty thriller, which will begin production this Spring in Charlotte, North Carolina. Mulroney will play Jed Banks, a fifth-generation oil man, alpha millionaire and the husband of trophy-wife Margo (Malin Åkerman). Above all else, he’s a ladies-man who loves nothing more than bringing guest stars into their marital bed. And although he’s considering a run for Texas Governor, he’s determined not to let public service get in the way of their good time. Jonigkeit will play Graham O’Neil, Sophie’s (Brittany Snow) safe, solid, and somewhat clueless husband. He loves his wife but does not know how to handle her emotional baggage. He thinks the move to Texas will help Sophie, and he encourages her involvement with Margo – but he has no idea of the Pandora’s Box it will open. The Hunting Wives is based on the novel by May Cobb, which tells the story of Sophie and her family’s move from the East Coast to deep East Texas, where she succumbs to socialite Margo Bank’s irresistible charms – and finds her life consumed by obsession, seduction, and murder. “The Hunting Wives” is executive produced by Rebecca Cutter (“Hightown”), who will write and serve as showrunner, Erwin Stoff (“The Serpent Queen,” The Matrix, Edge of Tomorrow, Julia) for 3 Arts Entertainment and Cobb. The series is produced by Lionsgate Television and 3 Arts Entertainment. About STARZ STARZ (www.starz.com), a Lionsgate company, is a leading 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. STARZ is available across digital OTT platforms and multichannel video distributors, including cable operators, satellite television providers, and telecommunications companies. 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 3 Arts Entertainment 3 Arts Entertainment is a talent/literary management and production company, with 33 years of experience. We have offices in Beverly Hills and New York and have clients in the TV and Film Lit world, acting world, hosting world, branded areas, digital media and more. 3 Arts has produced hit films such as The Matrix, Austin Powers: Thy Spy Who Shagged Me, The Devil’s Advocate, Edge of Tomorrow and 13 Hours and more. We currently executive produce over 30 shows on the air. Some of our series include: “Julia,” “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia,” “Master of None,” “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt,” “Insecure,” and “Brooklyn Nine-Nine.” About Lionsgate Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF.A, LGF.B) encompasses world-class motion picture and television studio operations aligned with the STARZ premium 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 20,000+ 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.’ Written by John Edward Betancourt IN THE KNOW -- Episode 105 -- Pictured: (l-r) Zach Woods as Voice of Lauren, Carl Tart as voice of Carl, Charlie Bushnell as voice of Chase -- (Photo by: PEACOCK)
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Five of ‘In the Know’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
One particularly difficult truth about work that we all struggle to face, is that we will have to set forth boundaries with a fair number of our co-workers. Which is tough, simply because… so many of them will seem likeable and appear to care about us. When in fact, only a handful ever will and only a handful will ever be worth spending time with outside of work. Because in reality, a vast majority of our co-workers just want the illusion of ‘family’ or borderless workplaces and will abuse their freedom when it suits them. Which means, those boundaries have to remain in place, so we too can enjoy the illusion and never have to deal with the drama that accompanies letting those boundaries go. If anything, this particular truth is top of mind today, simply because that truth was put on display in the next episode of In the Know on Peacock. For ‘Yogurt Week’ saw Lauren deal with quite the personal crisis of his own making. In that, he believed that because Carl caught him off guard while he had the hiccups, which stopped them, that his body was in fact… terrified of the color of Carl’s skin. That there were racist tendencies within, and he had to prove to Carl, that wasn’t the case. That he was welcoming to all and that prompted him to cancel the day’s interviews to have a roundtable to combat the hate he somehow thought was in his blood and that led, to one wild day in the studio. Wherein, Lauren basically crossed every single line an employee can cross in the office. Since he said off the wall things, made the on-air conversation way too personal and of course… was erratic in his behavior to the point of fright. All of which Carl recognized came not from the claims he was making, but from a place without boundaries. For all Lauren wanted, outside of not having Chase hock his sunglass brand on air, was to have the close ties that Carl and Barb shared. He wanted approval, he wanted it all. Which Carl wasn’t ready to give. He wanted this to be professional from beginning to end and did everything within his power to do so. Because he knew blurring that line with his boss would cause more harm than good, and he cleverly maintained it, and taught us why it needs to exist, while also giving us a sense of realism. Since we’ve known co-workers like Lauren or know one now and should probably follow Carl’s lead for our own piece of mind. But while that was a great lesson to endure, it is one that makes it seem as though work is always awful and always full of pratfalls. Thankfully, Fabian’s storyline here made sure to remind us that once in a while… it can fulfill. Because while that mess was happening, she was pre-interviewing Jorge Masvidal to see if he was the right fit for the show, and well… he was for Fabian. For they clicked, and found meaning and understanding, giving rise to a bright day for Fabian, something she definitely needed. All of which made, for a clever episode through and through. One that really did hammer home the importance of boundaries and offered up some hardcore comedy along the way. Because desperate Lauren is the stuff of legend to say the least. Since he went all out to garner the attention he sought here, in a slapstick manner no less. Not to mention, Sandy was at his absolute wildest here, since it isn’t every day you see someone go the extra mile to have their foreskin replaced. But that’s just what Sandy felt he needed here, and that made for some wild laughs and a sense of longing. Because sadly, there is only one episode left in season one of this show, and well… we all want more. Because what it is sending our way is brilliant and that means, we will have to savor the season finale and all it has to offer come next week. Until then. Watch ‘In the Know’
Written by John Edward Betancourt TED -- "He's Gotta Have It" Episode 107 -- Pictured: (l-r) Max Burkholder as John, Seth MacFarlane as voice of Ted, Giorgia Whigham as Blaire -- (Photo by: PEACOCK)
Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Season Finale of ‘Ted’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
If there is one particular trope in coming-of-age stories that has become quite stale and problematic in nature, is the whole losing one’s virginity storyline. Which is stale now because it’s plain cliché. Where the main character, usually a male, is desperate to not be seen as a loser or seen as a failure in life because they haven’t lost their virginity by a certain age. So, they move hell and high water to ensure that by graduation day or the end of the summer, they are a man and can uh… enjoy their new status? Or whatever the hell is the ending to a tired storyline that really offers little to us. Which brings us to why this is so problematic. Because it’s grounded in toxic concepts about what goes into making a man, a MAN, and the gross behaviors teens must partake in, in order to enjoy their new standing in life. All of which showcases a bunch of bad ideas, and while they’re often told through the lens of a comedy, it doesn’t make them any less harmful. Which leaves all of us to wonder… if there is by chance a way to tell such a story in a manner that has meaning and actually is engaging and well, believe it or not… the answer to those questions are a resounding yes, and for proof… we need not look further than the season one finale of Ted on Peacock. For ‘He’s Gotta Have It’ reinvented this trope and made it worthwhile, all by having young John Bennett conduct a quest to lose his virginity. A quest that came to fruition courtesy of the fact that John came to realize… he was in fact, the last virgin standing at school. So naturally, he followed the old edict of concern. That he would be a massive loser if he didn’t shed that particular title and well, that prompted John to do whatever needed to be done to be free of this title. Which Blaire got wind of and that motivated her to ask Matty and Susan to make sure that John was educated properly on what was ahead and perhaps how best to navigate this new world of sexual activity. Which uh… yeah that talk went badly. Because Matty had no idea what to say and Susan just offered up a story about how awkward her first time was.  TED -- "He's Gotta Have It" Episode 107 -- Pictured: (l-r) Max Burkholder as John, Charlotte Fountain-Jardim as Betheny -- (Photo by: Elizabeth Morris/PEACOCK)
Which meant, it fell to one teddy bear to the save the day, and Ted believed… that Johnny could make his first sexual connection if he looked like the greatest lothario ever, and that theory was put to the test with a girl named Betheny. For John caught her eye, and that meant an attempt to romance her like never before took place. One where John pulled out all the stops, including an Aladdin re-enactment to wow her and that… landed him a prom date with her, along with an understanding that John was such the lover. But that spooked Betheny off and put John in the dumps for a good bit. That is until Matty finally found the right words and taught John, a powerful lesson in humility.
In that, honesty was all that mattered in this world, as did speaking from the heart and John went to prom and did just that. And embarrassed himself in front of everyone to prove that he wasn’t some gigolo working the streets of Boston. He was just John Bennett. A virgin that had a massive crush on Betheny and he wanted to see where their synergy could take them. Which won her over and brought him damn close to his goal, only to have the O.J. Simpson highway chase derail that chance. A twist of fate that resembled his own mother’s story. But more importantly that journey and that ending, brought to a close… one phenomenal reinvention of this tired out and toxic trope. Because John didn’t accomplish his ‘goal’ here, and he learned a lot about how the machismo nonsense men make use of at any age, really doesn’t work in the end. Because it’s stupid and off putting, and honesty, respect, and consent are what really creates healthy relationships and meaningful intimacy. Not to mention, this story also didn’t glamorize the ‘first time’. It pointed out it is an awkward and silly moment in life that will never be as romantic or stylized as popular media paints it out to be. It’s just something we go through and put too much stock in, and that made for one brilliant episode. One that leaves us hopeful for more of this series and hopefully, we get a second season order for this show. Because this show really is something special, and there’s plenty more years to explore before the timeline catches up with John and Ted. Watch ‘Ted’
Written by John Edward Betancourt Nate Mann as Major Robert ‘Rosie’ Rosenthal in ‘Part Six’ of ‘Masters of the Air’. (Photo Courtesy of Apple.)
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Six of ‘Masters of the Air’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
If there is one particularly difficult truth we can glean from the Second World War, it would have to be that grieving for the fallen… was damn near impossible for the men and women that served in the last great, noble war. Simply because… for the men of Easy Company, those losses came so quick and they had such tough tasks ahead, that they had no choice but to push ahead and worry about their emotions at another time, and it was a similar story for the Marines that served in the Pacific Theater. Since they were constantly surrounded by chaos and strife, and missions at hand and it was either fight or let grief consume them at the most inopportune moment. All of which has indeed made it clear that grieving was for the end of the war, when absent friends could properly be toasted to. But believe it or not, a handful of those in our armed forces actually did manage to find time to grieve, specifically, the men of the 100th. For these brave airmen, were more or less forced to receive breaks, especially after the disaster that was their last mission. For the next episode of Masters of the Air on Apple TV+ informed us that with only one barely functional plane on the airfield, there was little for the men to do, but stand and wait, and reflect. Reflect upon how they’d just seen every bomber go down after that Germany raid and well, that prompted the brass to attempt to do something nice for those left behind by sending Rosie’s unit away for an outright retreat to a lovely little getaway in England. Where they could process their grief and re-center their emotions. Which went easy for everyone but Rosie. Simply because, he didn’t think he needed time away to reflect. He needed to be in the cockpit, mask on and in the skies, with bombs at his back and his boys at his side, dropping bombs on the enemy and teaching them to not mess with freedom. But the brass disagreed, as did the resident doctor there and that allowed for us to watch Rosie, grieve in his own way. Which for him… involving trying to reconcile his own touch of survivor’s remorse, alongside trying to figure out the nature of the war, and the horrors he had now seen. Because such chaos, and such wanton death impacted him deeply. But grieve and rest he did, and that helped him to find enough inspiration and bravery to get back into the cockpit to fight.  Callum Turner as Major John Egan in ‘Part Six’ of ‘Masters of the Air’. (Photo Courtesy of Apple.)
A story that truly allowed for us to see grief be processed for the first time in this saga really, and that wasn’t the only story that took the time to do so. For Captain Crosby was still reeling over the loss of Bubbles and of the men he fought alongside for ages on end. So, the brass sent the captain out in the world to mingle. To just… get lost amongst the pomp and circumstance so he could gently process the pain in his heart and the confusion in his mind. And seeing how others coped with the losses they ordered men into, along with having a good time with a plucky British Officer who kept her rank and purpose a mystery, helped Crosby lose himself in the moment and be reminded that while not everyone goes forward in war, those that do, still have to live. Still have to fight, and honor the fallen as best they can from their respective role, and that gave Crosby enough fuel to burn out his pain and return to duty.
Yet, while those stories would have been enough to carry this episode from beginning to end, since at last… we were seeing grief in action in a war where it seemed to be an impossibility, this episode had more important moments to offer us. Such as following up on the fate of one Major John Egan. Who found himself in the heart of Germany, deep inside enemy lines and despite his best efforts to stay on the run, he was captured, beaten within an inch of his life and eventually, put before German officials who firmly believed he was a spy. Which eventually brought him to a Luftwaffe Stalag deep in Germany, where he would spend the rest of his life if the Nazis had their way, and oddly enough… this rough and tumble and downright scary route to the Stalag, brought him joy in the end. For in this place, were other men from the 100th, lost in other raids, including… one Major Gale Cleven. A reality that will make John feel at home and feel safe in a place that he knows nothing of, and well… this was a welcome ending for certain. Since we saw men heal from the darkness and came to learn that not all the planes that went down lost their crews. They just found themselves in a tough place, and that journey can now offer up new explorations for this franchise. Since we’ve never been privy to POW stories in this trilogy, but they await, as do more raids from the 100th. For the war still rages on. But while we wait to experience what lies ahead, we can applaud one powerful episode. One that finally allowed for grieving to take place in the midst of a war where sorrow was consistently the order of the day. Until next time. Watch ‘Masters of the Air’
Written by John Edward Betancourt  CHICAGO FIRE -- "Port in the Storm" Episode 12006 -- Pictured: (l-r) Kara Killmer as Sylvie Brett, Jesse Spencer as Matt Casey -- (Photo by: Adrian S Burrows Sr/NBC) If there is one thing we all love in drama shows that we follow closely, it’s seeing the characters grow into so much more. It could be conquering old demons and becoming the person they want to be. Or it might be something as complex as watching them go through dark times and put in the work to heal. But there is something quite powerful about watching fictional characters we connect with, stand tall and be more and also take part in moments that we have also participated in, or will down the line. Such as falling in love and getting married. Because that too, warms our heart and reminds us of the wonder of love, and how special it is to see friends… or fictional folks we love… find just that. Which is why fans of Chicago Fire have been anxiously awaiting one particular moment. Specifically, the wedding of Sylvie Brett and Matt Casey. So that at long last, they can enjoy that wondrous moment in a show that so many connect with and adore and well, since we are indeed near the special day, NBC was kind enough to offer up a gift. Specifically, advance photos of this important episode, and well, since you’re eager to see what the wedding will look like, here is a sampling of those photos, and a synopsis of the episode, courtesy of NBC. 'The long-awaited union between Sylvie Brett and Matt Casey finally becomes official when the couple strolls down the aisle in the most unique of settings in the upcoming episode of “Chicago Fire,” airing Wednesday, February 28 at 9 p.m. ET/PT. “Port in the Storm" Airing Feb. 28 at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT on NBC Titled “Port in the Storm,” the episode welcomes back some familiar faces and says goodbye to others. Meanwhile, Violet scrambles to decorate Brett’s wedding venue and a call at the expo center takes a shocking turn. ABOUT “CHICAGO FIRE" “Chicago Fire” is an edge-of-your-seat ride looking into the professional and personal lives of the firefighters and paramedics of Firehouse 51 as they risk their lives every day to save and protect the citizens of Chicago. The series stars Taylor Kinney, David Eigenberg, Kara Killmer, Miranda Rae Mayo, Christian Stolte, Joe Miñoso., Daniel Kyri, Hanako Greensmith and Eamonn Walker. Executive producers are Dick Wolf, Derek Haas, Andrea Newman, Reza Tabrizi, Arthur Forney and Peter Jankowski. “Chicago Fire” is produced by Universal Television, a division of Universal Studio Group, in association with Wolf Entertainment.' Written by John Edward Betancourt  Still of Joseph Sikora on the Set of Season 3 of ‘Power Book IV: Force’ Courtesy of STARZ. It really is quite amazing how the Power Universe has grown before our eyes. Because not that long ago, there was but one show to tune into, which we all did religiously. To see how it would end and learn what would become of its incredible characters and of course, once that powerful series finale took our breath way… did the Universe enjoy new life. For it didn’t end with Ghost’s unfortunate end. Instead, it became about Tariq’s next chapter in life through Power Book II: Ghost, and of course… we also began to learn about the life and times of Kanan Stark via Power Book III: Raising Kanan.
Not to mention, Tommy Egan finally got his own day in the sun since Power Book IV: Force finally put him front and center and gave him a chance to be the kingpin he always wanted to be and well, the best part about all this growth is that we merely have to sit back and wait for more stories from these new corners of the Universe. Since Ghost and Raising Kanan have their season four orders and are those casts and crews are working away to give us what we crave and they were joined today, by Joseph Sikora and the team at Force. For earlier, STARZ let it be known that production has started on season three of this wildly popular show, and to properly do this announcement justice, here are all the details on this wondrous news, courtesy of STARZ. ‘STARZ announced today that production has begun on season three of its action-packed drama series “Power Book IV: Force” in Chicago. The popular series stars Joseph Sikora as “Tommy Egan,” a fan-favorite character who continues to captivate fans with his unique brand of humor. The high-octane series continues to be set and filmed in Chicago, where the heartbeat of the city lends itself to the authentic setting for the gritty, action packed drama, and provides a fitting showcase for the ensemble cast who reflect the melting pot of cultures that make the Windy City so great. Additionally, it was previously announced that production is underway in New York for season four of “Power Book III: Raising Kanan,” which recently aired its jaw-dropping season three finale. As the third spinoff in the “Power” franchise, “Power Book IV: Force” showcases “Tommy Egan,” led by Joseph Sikora, (“Power,” “Ozark”) who cuts ties in New York and heads to Chicago in search of family. One step leads to another and Tommy quickly finds himself in Chicago’s ruthless drug game between two of the city’s biggest crews, and a revolving door of rivalries trying to stake their claim. Tommy is more determined than ever to be the sole distributor in Chicago and must decide what he is willing to sacrifice to finally ascend the throne of a kingpin. Viewers can catch up on seasons one and two of “Power Book IV: Force” in its entirety on the STARZ app. “Power Book IV: Force” stars Joseph Sikora (“Power,” “Ozark”) as “Tommy Egan,” Isaac Keys (“Get Shorty,” “The Oath”) as “Diamond Sampson,” Lili Simmons (“Banshee,” “Ray Donovan”) as “Claudia Flynn,” Shane Harper (“Hightown,” “A Teacher”) as “Vic Flynn,” Kris D. Lofton (“Ballers,” “Snowfall”) as “Jenard Sampson,” Carmela Zumbado (“You,” “Chicago PD”) as “Mireya Garcia,” Manuel Eduardo Ramirez (“Snowfall,” “Queen of the South”) as “Miguel Garcia,” Miriam A. Hyman (“The Chi,” “The Laundromat”) as “US Attorney Stacy Marks,” Chris Tardio (“Ray Donovan,” “Younger”) as “Lieutenant Bobby DiFranco,” Adrienne Walker (“Law & Order: Organized Crime,” “FBI”) as “Shanti ‘Showstopper’ Page,” Anthony Fleming III (“Prison Break,” “The Beast”) as “JP,” and Lucien Cambric (“Chicago P.D.,” “The Chi”) as “D-Mac.” “Power Book IV: Force” is the third series in the expanded “Power” Universe franchise. Gary Lennon (“Power,” “Euphoria”) served as showrunner and executive producer for season two and will return for season three. The “Power” Universe series is executive produced by the creator and showrunner of the original “Power,” Courtney A. Kemp through her production company End of Episode, Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson through G-Unit Film and Television, and Mark Canton through Atmosphere Entertainment MM. Terri Kopp and Chris Selak also serve as executive producers. Lionsgate Television produces the series for STARZ. Follow “Force” on Social Instagram: @ForceStarz Facebook: @ForceStarz Join the conversation with #PowerForce #PowerTV and #STARZ About STARZ STARZ (www.starz.com), a Lionsgate company, is a leading 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. STARZ is available across digital OTT platforms and multichannel video distributors, including cable operators, satellite television providers, and telecommunications companies. 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 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 20,000+ 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.’ Written by John Edward Betancourt THE IRRATIONAL -- "Point & Shoot" Episode 106 -- Pictured: (l-r) Emidio Lopes as Mason Hill-Jones, Jesse L. Martin as Alec Mercer, Neville Wingo as Donald Sales, Travina Springer as Kylie -- (Photo by: Sergei Bachlakov/NBC)
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Six of ‘The Irrational’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
Over the course of the past few weeks, we’ve talked at length about the refreshing nature of the NBC series, The Irrational, and rightfully so. For this has been an unconventional series, showcasing unconventional crimes and ideas as to how they could be committed. Giving rise to stories that rarely resemble our world, plunging us into a whole new one where science and thought are king. Making it wondrous escapist television focused heavily on the flaws of the human condition. But of course, it was only a matter of time before this show did indeed begin to really reflect our world and ponder upon what makes some people indulge in awful decisions in everyday life. Because one cannot explore the human condition, and how we think, without applying it to the real world. Well as it turns out, the next episode in this fascinating crime drama opted to do just that, in the most powerful way imaginable. For ‘Point & Shoot’ went straight for it and decided to examine in great detail… how police officers and law enforcement can quite literally get away with murder in this world. Because like it or not, this is a problem in our society and it seems quite irrational that it continues along and well, what this episode had to say upon such matters was quite poignant and powerful, and it accomplished this feat… by having a law firm and a broken husband ask Alec for help. Simply because, a man named Mason lost his husband to a botched warrant delivery. And of course, the police hired the fanciest expert witness money could buy to shut the case down, so they needed Alec, who agreed to help. In large part because the incompetence in this case concerned him greatly, and that concern grew when he saw how, Dustin Atwood, his rival in the courtroom, manipulated the jury and made everyone believe that while mistakes can happen, police officers are elite and on their game otherwise. Which prompted Alec to think upon how law enforcement is oft portrayed as the hero in every scenario and even their mistakes are seen as heroic and related to other factors than the truths we’ve learned. Prompting him to speak the jury differently and really speak to justice and how the police abused power instead of enforcing the laws. Which brought forth a settlement offer since the department knew it was about to lose… but Mason wanted more. He wanted complete justice. So, Alec continued to dig and really came to understand that this abuse of power went deeper than expected. In that, money was involved here, and corrupt officers were about to be exposed by the deceased, prompting this gross misconduct and abuse of power, one that Alec exposed instead and brought peace to a broken man’s heart and of course… this story left us with a lot to ponder upon. Since this episode made it clear that we currently live in a world where we hold our safety nets in the highest regard and believe them to be infallible, when in fact… they are very fallible. For they are now filled with law enforcement officers that have lost sight of their oath or join up for the wrong reasons and abuse power and think they are above it. Resulting in this. And such thoughts task us… to be vigilant, to demand better of our systems and demand that it remain at the high standard we think it holds itself to, when it does not. Giving rise to one sobering episode. One that truly echoed the ways of the world right now in every way possible. Because it was a black man gunned down by crooked cops in this story, as it happens in real life far too often and well, this show deserves a round of applause for taking its premise and applying to the real world. For that offered objectivity on a subject where few view it objectively, so that a good conversation can happen, and real lessons can perhaps inspire change. Yet what was equally as incredible, was that this episode still had more big moments to offer us. Since Marisa was deep in her case in this tale, and through her fine work, learned of a name that might be the top dog in all of this, Mathias. Which finally gives her something to work with and wraps up, a flawless and important episode of television. One that really showcased the true potential of this series, and it will be interesting to see what the rest of the season looks like, now that this saga has turned an eye to our flawed and irrational world. Until next time. Watch ‘The Irrational’
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