Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Three of ‘Manhunt’. To revisit the Series Premiere, click here.
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One would think that a story about the hunt for John Wilkes Booth, shortly after he opted to assassinate one of history’s greatest presidents and men, would be extremely tense in nature. For a manhunt, of that caliber, especially what could be considered to be the first real major manhunt in United States history, would have to be intense and focused. But that is why the Apple TV+ series, Manhunt is quite the incredible surprise. For while it is indeed about the search for Booth and features tense moments for certain… it is a series that offers us so much more than just thrills and chills.

For it is a series that is deeply grounded in the history of a critical moment in our nation’s history. One where we did indeed teeter upon a dark path while the manhunt took place, as evidenced by this week’s episode. For ‘Let the Sheep Flee’ spent a fair chunk of time with John Wilkes Booth on the road, and with some of his sympathizers as well. Giving rise to a fascinating lesson in how much support the Confederacy still had in those early days after the Civil War came to a close. Which is knowledge we can safely assume, was hereto forth unknown to us, since all we were taught was the war was the end, Booth was served justice and America grew into the superpower it is now.

But this episode really did dive into the fact that there were Confederate Agents everywhere in the landscape of a healing nation, and that they were eager to help Booth get to where he needed to go. Because in their eyes, and the eyes of other sympathizers, he was a hero, he was the man that gave rise to a second chance to perhaps put right what the War robbed so many Southern Gentlemen of, and that was scary to learn. Not to mention it was equally as scary to learn how easily Booth continued to evade capture, and how there was a plan to fake his death to get him off of the radar of law enforcement. Since an old friend did him a solid on such matters in Canada.

However, while that was fascinating to learn about, it paled in compassion to the underlying commentary and observation regarding why perhaps… we still have great divides in Modern America, hundreds of years after the war. All of which seemingly stems from a lack of accountability in this era. For it was made clear that while Stanton wanted both President Lincoln and President Johnson to send a message of accountability to those who crossed the line, their desire to have peace over all things likely allowed for issues to take root in America. Such as the wanton racism that still exists since a racially motivated murder in this episode was quickly overlooked, as was justice for those who helped the South rise to a level of prominence that would allow for war.

Which seemingly has given those men a sense of invincibility and joy, since now they can operate without impunity in the United States and keep a spirit alive. All of which brought forth one fascinating tale. One that truly made it clear how much it easier it was to run from the law back in the day, alongside some powerful commentary on America’s mistakes and deep-rooted tolerance for the wrong things. But commentary aside, this was still a tense tale at times, one that captivated as well. Because the clock is ticking and a madman is on the loose, and truly… it will be interesting to see what twists and turns await us as America works to serve justice to a man that robbed a beloved president of his future. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Two of ‘Apples Never Fall’. To revisit the Series Premiere, click here.
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There is a great danger that exists for stories that are eager to simultaneously solve a mystery and explore the people surrounding that mystery. In that, the story can quickly lose sight of the need for balance on such matters. Which in turn could bring forth a story that immediately dives into the mystery, which removes meaning and depth since the characters become one-dimensional in nature. Or you get a story that is, so laser focused on the characters the mystery is thus forgotten. Which is why audiences often approach these shows with trepidation because those paths are indeed commonplace, and it was likely an initial concern for those that tuned into the Peacock limited series, Apples Never Fall.

But thankfully, it doesn’t take long for the second episode of this series to make it clear… that balance is where it will thrive. For ‘Logan’ really did offer us just enough regarding the mystery, all while making sure to help us to get to know the Delaney family better and that brought forth one compelling tale. One that made it clear, that the Delaney kids, genuinely have a troubled relationship with their father. Which was deeply expressed through Logan in this tale. Because it was pointed out to him often that he was constantly lost between two worlds when it came to his father. Wherein he would staunchly defend him because that’s one does regarding a father, yet also lament him because of the abuse he imparted, and he was so back and forth in this matter, that he tossed love aside to preserve hope that perhaps dad would step up and be wondrous. Which truly did offer up amazing insight into Logan’s psyche and life.

But of course, that was extended to everyone. For we saw hints regarding how a rough relationship with their dad has helped to shape the others. Such as how Amy is a tad free spirited as what is likely a result of her father demanding structure and perfection, and how Brooke tends to lean toward toxic relationship issues because of the toxic nature of her parent’s relationships, and how Troy basically turned out to be his dad in some respects, at least emotionally. And all of this was explored, as the search continued for Joy, with the help of the police even. Because the thought was that Savannah had to be back in the fold, even when mom’s busted bike showed up. And flashbacks spoke to an unhealthy pairing between the two of them, so all signs pointed there.

Until they didn’t. For Savannah was nowhere to be found, and old haunts proved useless and well… that meant the family had to seriously turn toward the possibility that dear old dad might be involved and what’s scary… is that there were signs that might be the case. Because Stan was extra spicy in this episode, to the point where he began to exert fury over others since he hurt a fellow tennis pro in the name of revenge. Not to mention, the siblings came to learn that mom was interested in getting a divorce from Stan. To the point where she had indeed consulted a lawyer about such matters, and that… combined with Stan’s behavior throughout the episode and during that very disconcerting ending, has signs pointing toward him being responsible for Joy going missing.

Which of course, deepens the mystery. But before we conjecture further on who might have caused harm to Joy, we can celebrate a story that was perfectly grounded in balance. Because we really did learn a great deal about the family and what makes them each tick, personally, here, all while the story grew the mystery of the missing Joy Delaney. Giving rise to some troubling questions for certain, the kind that outright compels us to continue this fascinating journey. For this really is a dramatic mystery, one that is likely going to continue to ponder deeply on dysfunctional family life and its impact upon us in adulthood, as the mystery surrounding Joy unravels and that is going to make for some compelling television as this incredible series marches on. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 306 of ‘Resident Alien’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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When we last settled in to discuss the wondrous SYFY series, Resident Alien, we talked at length about how the show was taking Harry, and the audience into fascinating storytelling territory. All by having Harry fall in love with Heather (Feather). Since she was clearly his first major love and vice versa and well… that was designed to explore, how that always brings forth disaster. Courtesy of actions that are toxic, hurtful, and of course, their love was barreling toward an ugly end and likely a breakup for the ages. The kind that would devastate and shatter Harry in a concerning manner because that’s how that first hard breakup goes and well… it didn’t take long for that to be showcased in this week’s tale.

For ‘Bye Bye Birdie’ saw Heather take a moment to steal Harry’s DNA via cleaning his gills, and once she was done… she flew the coop. Which of course, Harry didn’t catch onto at first, but through a hilarious sequence involving a carrier pigeon and a return visit from his love, Harry got the message. She was done with him, and he was alone again and just like that… he sunk and sunk fast. Because that’s what happens when we lose that first, toxic love. We think the world is going to end, we think our heart will never recover and well… we will stay in that state for a long time when love number one is all done. Unless of course, we get some solid support to help us see how this love was nothing more than a learning experience, and Harry had that here.

Because Asta and D’Arcy were indeed there to try and support him, which in turn led to more hilarious sequences. Mainly because Harry was indeed caught in that teenage mentality here and stomped about akin to one. But that didn’t stop his friends from trying their best to help him find a peace in this and get back to what was important. Which in this instance, was saving all of humanity from the Greys evil plan, and this duo were so concerned, they even reached out to the General. Who offered up a Bird of the Night for Harry to find calm around, and well… their best efforts didn’t work at first, and that meant… they needed more to show Harry how this love wasn’t worth fretting over.

While they searched for that, some positive things were happening around town. Wherein Mike was forced to face some truths about his own behavior in love and where Kate finally stepped up to the plate and worked to understand her abduction. Not to mention, Liv finally found agency in this story with Mike’s support. Since she taught her Nana quite the lesson in humility via a foul-mouthed tirade that ended with a heart attack for Nana. But while scary, all of this was lovely to see because growth is the name of the game on this show, and it would also seem we are at the bare beginnings of growth for Asta and D’Arcy’s friendship as well. Because these Best Friends For Life grated often in this story and fought, and while that likely won’t last… it’s clear this laid down the foundation for growth for them as they face some hard truths about themselves and their BFFLship.
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But while it was lovely to see those moments play out and see growth take place, eventually… what Asta and D’Arcy needed to help Harry arrived. For Judy was able to capture the moment when Heather handed over the DNA to Joseph, giving rise to proof that Heather did indeed make a choice to hurt and did not value Harry in the manner that he hoped she did. Which was precisely what Harry needed in that moment. And while that didn’t heal his wounds or bring him joy, truth was enough to get him off the mountain he was sulking upon and get back to life and get back to work, and this could not have come at a better moment. Since clearly, the Greys are ready to clone Harry and use his DNA to use his own toys against us and of course… that tiny threat that’s growing, is on its way to deal with daddy. 

But while we wait to see what comes out of those revelations, we can celebrate one amazing tale. One that completed a journey into the world of our first and most toxic love, and how the end of it has a great impact upon us and truly screws with us. But not to make fun of it, or us for going through it… but to point out that’s part of being human. Part of growing as a person, because we learn a lot from that crappy first love, about love, about ourselves and we are better for going through it. Which means a new Harry should emerge from the maelstrom, and this episode deserves a round of applause for exploring this in such an accurate and hilarious manner. Because once again, the laughs came fast and furious here and Alan Tudyk shined again, and it really will be joyous to see a resurgent Harry move forward in life and handle the big challenges ahead in a more mature manner. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Twelve of ‘Extended Family’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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Over the course of the past couple of months, we’ve talked at length about the struggles that blended families face, and how best to overcome them, courtesy of the amazing NBC series, Extended Family. For this series has served as the guide to blended family life, and explored in great detail the many challenges multiple parents will face in raising their kids and getting along and navigating life’s challenges along the way, and that’s brought forth some revolutionary storytelling. The kind that continues to go to new places every single week to keep things interesting, and this week’s episode is no exception to that truth.

Because ‘The Consequences of Being Irish’ took the time to move the family forward by pondering upon how the new member of the family truly becomes part of the unit and what comes next when that happens, and it explored such matters by having Jim do something that every parent must do in life… teach their children about their heritage. Which for the Kearney family, involved a grandiose lesson on their Irish heritage, and what it actually meant for them to be Irish and well, Jim’s passion in having the kids understand their origins and their lineage, prompted Trey to lean on Jim for something big.

After all, being the owner of the Boston Celtics meant that respect had to be paid to Irish culture during March and well, since Jim knew his stuff and harbored hard convictions in expressing it right, this duo quickly came to an understanding that Jim could do right by the Celtics and offer education regarding Irish culture during a gala that Trey was hosting to celebrate the club. Which at first, looked to be steeped in disaster. Because Jim showed the folks in attendance, everything about Irish history via virtual reality. Even the scary, ugly stuff. Which brought about a panic and the potential disaster in question. But it turned out that it was the right decision and really offered up incredible education to the crowd. To the point where money was injected into the club and what Jim started.

All of which spoke to the importance of being honest about the past and showcasing the truth about it often. So, people can really understand how far we’ve come and how far we need to go. But that lesson aside, make no mistake about it… Jim and Trey saw one another in a different light in this tale… as family. Complete with seamless thinking and movement and flow, and well, their actions here and the suddenness of this shift, spoke to how, there will come a day when a common ground is found. One that both believe in and bond over and when that happens, an extended family just becomes a family, and that will occur quickly because of the importance of the big moment that serves as the catalyst, and what follows is wonder.

Because now, everyone will work together and offer help in a seamless manner that inspires and offers a sense of real safety. Because now everyone has everyone’s back, and no one is a stranger and that made for another delightful and amazing tale from this series. One that truly did offer up another important lesson about blended family life, and a special one at that. Since now we know, eventually the road bumps go away, and synergy comes into play, provided we follow the other lessons present here, and well… this sense of peace could not have come at a better time. For the season one finale of the show awaits, and that synergy could be used to help wrap up one chapter in this family’s story, to prepare for the next one. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 212 of ‘Night Court’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.

One particular lesson we are taught often about love, is that we should never change who we are for a person that has come into our lives. Because we must always be true to ourselves and love ourselves first, and that person should in fact, find value in who we are and compliment us instead of complete us. To which there is a lot of merit to that line of thinking. Because to make drastic changes to who we are for love isn’t healthy and cedes control of our own destiny to someone… who may truly not appreciate us for who we actually are… and may not stick around. But while that has merit, it isn’t entirely how we should approach true love. 

Because sometimes… there are quirks and proclivities about us, that can be grating and intimidating and keeping those around can in fact, put a wedge between someone we care for dearly. So, letting those go, or lessening their impact can do a lot for our love and really show our person how much we want to connect with them and help them feel seen, and well… the importance of that and the process to get there, was put on display during this week’s episode of Night Court on NBC. A feat that ‘The Duke’s a Hazard’ accomplished by having Alistair, Gurgs’ beloved Duke, roll into New York City and meet her courthouse cohorts and well… while there was obvious chemistry between the two, Gurgs had some concerns.

Specifically, that her Dukey Dukeums, made too much of a show of everything, and made every intimate moment big and epic and out of place. When all she wanted now and again, were normal, intimate, moments and that put her in a tough place, where she didn’t know how to ask her sweetheart how to take part in such a change. Which brought Abby to her rescue, who carefully taught the Duke about the importance of those changes and how to do them. Which led to some outright hilarity of course, since this bougie man didn’t understand ‘normal’ all that well and had some tantrums because of it. But it was all for Gurgs. To make her feel special and wanted on a more intimate level, so Alistair stuck with it all, learned it all and showed Gurgs how much she mattered to him and how much he wanted this to work.

Which beautifully hammered home the lesson at hand and spoke to how relationships are work and require extra effort all around to really keep all parties happy. However, while that was quite the endearing storyline, make no mistake about it… the comedy and zaniness this show is known for was present here as well. In large part because of Rhys Darby, who played Alistair and brought zest and zeal to the role as only he can, in fact… the subway scene will absolutely go down as one of the funniest of the season thanks to Rhys’ work in that moment. And of course, we’d be foolish to not discuss the other storyline present in this tale. For while Abby helped teach a Duke about real love, Dan was dealing with a long-standing family feud with Alistair’s valet.

Because Duncan’s family had beef with Dan’s family back in the day, and that brought forth a lot of sass and a duel of the ages. Specifically, a good old-fashioned valet-off. Wherein, honor would be determined by the lack of mistakes made in serving royalty. Which Dan won handily because he crosses the right lines at the right times, and this was just an amazing storyline, one that let guest star Dave Foley (Duncan) and John Larroquette shine by letting both of them lean into their comedy roots. All of which brought about, another amazing episode of this show. For this was fun, funny, and just a treat to watch through and through and it ended in a lovely manner for certain and has us eager to see, what fun surprises await us when next week’s season two finale arrives. Until then.

To learn more about the cast’s experiences in creating ‘Night Court’, check out our interviews with Nyambi Nyambi  (Wyatt) and Rhys Darby (Alistair).

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Penultimate Episode of ‘Constellation’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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If there is one particular scientific concept that ignites our imagination in ways we never thought possible, it would have to be the multiverse. Because the thought that there are endless worlds out there where unique iterations of us exist, really is something quite powerful and mind blowing and yes, our brains do indeed ponder upon the endless possibilities. Where perhaps we are some kind of a hero on another world, or the celebrity we dreamed of when we were younger or where perhaps… we are happily in our dream job and thriving because we always knew we would be good at it.

Which makes the concept fun, and it is so unique in nature that it is beginning to become more mainstream in science fiction storytelling. But what we rarely think about when it comes to the multiverse, is the sheer fact that for every amazing life we could lead in other worlds, there would be other versions of us that suffer. That might have fallen down upon hard and scary times or found their way into addiction or are struggling with the choices we’ve made. Wherein perhaps, they could be pondering upon just living our lives, giving rise to all kinds of wild paradoxes in our minds and in the concept and that’s why this week’s episode of Constellation on Apple TV+ is so important to this growing subgenre of science fiction storytelling.

For ‘Through the Looking Glass’ takes the time to remind us that perhaps the grass isn’t always greener on the other side, and that a voyage through the multiverse could potentially be devastating to our mental health. Especially when we come to realize we don’t belong. As evidenced by what happened to Jo in this tale. For in this story, she finally came to understand that in another life, in another world, her fate was that of Paul’s and that left her stunned and helped her to realize that she was indeed in the wrong place and surrounded by nothing that she could connect with, including this iteration of Alice. 

Which prompted her to have an honest talk with her ‘alternate’ Alice and ponder upon how best to find Jo’s real world and other life, which in turn brought forth a fascinating push in the cold. Where Alice’s from two worlds faced trouble, one another and the truth about the multiverse and their alternate lives. Giving rise to a fascinating ‘what if?’ style of story, where the show explored in great detail, what we might do in this instance and how devastating the truth about a multiverse could be when we realize how radical our lives could be elsewhere. Which made for a powerful tale, one that truthfully spoke to a concept that we rarely see stories in this vein speak to.
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In that, while it sounds cool to go to another world and see our faces on a billboard for a movie, our world is where we belong. Because it is here that we have ties, have family, people that love us in some capacity, and to deny ourselves all of that, would be a crime. One that would leave us beside ourselves and in a tough place. Which makes this episode, quite philosophical in nature as well, since those are elements that speak to what matters most in life (in any universe) and what we should really be fighting for at all costs. All wrapped about in one trippy and magnificent story that kept us captivated with every surprise involving two worlds fighting to keep hold of family. 

But of course, this episode kept balance regarding such concepts in play by having the Caldera boys switch places at an inopportune moment, giving rise to a reminder of how hard it is to appreciate the life we have when the going gets rough, and well… all of these elements made for one brilliant episode. One that set the stage for resolution regarding what comes next for Jo’s voyage through the multiverse, after giving us so much to ponder upon regarding a concept we only see as fun and aloof. Since this episode is proof positive that multiverse stories can be dramatic, powerful, and emotional, and less fantastical, and it will be interesting to see how that truth will be applied to the end of the journey during next week’s finale. Until next time.

​When we think of premieres for television shows, we think of an epic red-carpet event. Where everyone is dressed in formal wear and eager to stop and pose for photos to celebrate the arrival of an amazing new series. In fact, this is so commonplace, we almost expect it at this point. But the fact of the matter is, not every premiere has to follow those traditional rules. They can celebrate the show or film in question in a unique and engaging manner that flat out fits what is about to hit the airwaves or the silver screen and for proof, look no further than how José Andrés handled the arrival of his new show.

For last night, he hosted a unique dinner party to celebrate the release of Dinner Party Diaries with José Andrés on Prime Video. Wherein delicious bites, and cocktails and discussions abound took place and well, that’s quite the refreshing way to celebrate a new show/special. Since it truly allowed for everyone to really immerse themselves in what the special, which is out now on Prime Video, is all about and well… to give you an idea of how much of a delight this unique celebration was, here are some photos and a summary of the evening’s events, courtesy of Prime Video.
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'Last night, renowned chef José Andrés welcomed guests to an exclusive experience at his New York restaurant, Zaytinya at The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad to celebrate the launch of the new Prime Video show Dinner Party Diaries with José Andrés and his new cookbook ZAYTINYA: Delicious Mediterranean Dishes from Greece, Turkey, and Lebanon.
 
Party attendees were greeted with tasty bites, custom cocktails, and a herb-garden wall photo booth at the cocktail launch party. In the fun & vibrant new half-hour special, Andrés invites friends Jamie Lee Curtis, Bryan Cranston, and O’Shea Jackson Jr., over for food and conversation. The special celebrates the joy of cooking together and how food is a source of hope, inspired by Andrés’ work with the non-profit he founded in 2010, World Central Kitchen.
 
The lively & playful energy José and his celebrity guests exuded in the special was emulated in the room as Andrés encouraged guests to come grab a drink with friends and strangers alike, cultivating deep connections and conversations over cocktails, passed hors d’oeuvres and small plates. Partygoers enjoyed some of Zaytinya’s signature Mediterranean bites featured in Andres’ cookbook and sipped on specialty cocktails, made with Cranston’s Dos Hombres Mezcal. Attendees included Keegan-Michael Key, David Rockwell, Doug Liman, Jane Krakowski, Ana Navarro-Cárdenas and Ubah Hassan.

Coinciding with the debut of the special, Andrés has simultaneously released his newest cookbook, ZAYTINYA: Delicious Mediterranean Dishes from Greece, Turkey, and Lebanon today, Tuesday, March 19th.

About the Special: 
James Beard award-winning dynamo, culinary trailblazer and revered philanthropist José Andrés is coming to the small screen in a way you’ve never seen before. In this funny, vibrant, and unpredictable special, Andrés invites Jamie Lee Curtis, Bryan Cranston and O’Shea Jackson Jr., over for food and conversation. His guests join him in the kitchen, getting their hands dirty with approachable Spanish-influenced recipes, and laughing through the stories that inspire them. Andrés cultivates deep connections with his celebrity guests through hilarious and poignant conversations that reflect his authentic relationships. Unlike most instructional food specials, Andrés embraces imperfection and spontaneity in the kitchen, giving viewers important takeaways to apply in their own homes.
 
Dinner Party Diaries with José Andrés is executive produced by José Andrés, Richard Wolffe, Matthew Goldberg, Ellen Rocamora, Max Wagner, Ryan Schiavo, and Michael Antinoro. Dinner Party Diaries with José Andrés is from Amazon MGM Studios. 
 
The special celebrates the joy of cooking together and how food is a source of hope, inspired by Andrés’ work with the non-profit he founded in 2010, World Central Kitchen.
 
About José Andrés:
Twice named one of Time Magazine’s “100 Most Influential People” and awarded “Outstanding Chef” and “Humanitarian of the Year” by the James Beard Foundation, José Andrés is an internationally recognized humanitarian, culinary innovator, New York Times bestselling author, educator, Emmy award-winning television personality, and owner of the award-winning José Andrés Group, which operates nearly 40 restaurants in the US and beyond.
 
In 2010, Andrés founded World Central Kitchen, a nonprofit organization that is first to the frontlines, providing meals in response to humanitarian, climate, and community crises. Andrés’ work has earned awards and distinctions including the 2015 National Humanities Medal from President Barack Obama, the 2017 Lifetime Achievement Award from the International Association of Culinary Professionals, and the Princess of Asturias Foundation’s 2021 Concordia Prize for his humanitarian work.
 
In 2023, Andrés founded the Global Food Institute at George Washington University in Washington DC, and he currently serves as the Co-Chair of President Biden’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition. As a naturalized citizen originally from Spain, Andrés has been a tireless advocate for immigration reform.'

​Please enjoy this sneak peek and synopsis of the Penultimate Episode of Constellation which debuts tomorrow (3/20/24) on Apple TV+!
 
Episode 107: Through the Looking Glass
Lost and alone in the woods, Jo desperately tries to reunite with her daughter.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Series Finale of ‘The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart’. To revisit the show’s penultimate episode, click here. This article also contains discussion regarding domestic violence, which may be triggering to some individuals.
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One particular aspect of the human condition that is genuinely fascinating is how our search to find the answer to one important question begets another important question. Because time and time again, when we seek out a big answer, it in turn prompts us to ask another big question and well… while fascinating this all makes sense. For we are beings that are curious and deep down have desire to grow, so we search and fight for answers upon answers and find them along the way and become better people for it. Which is top of mind today, simply because… that’s precisely what the series finale of The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart on Prime Video focuses upon. For ‘Part 7: Sturt’s Desert Pea’ is all about questions, answers and what we do with the knowledge we acquire.

Which of course, related to Alice’s journey. For after being badly beaten by Dylan and humiliated and manipulated to save his hide and make her look like the monster here… Alice felt no recourse but to return home. For she had nothing now, and felt alone, so June and Twig dropped by to pick her up and offer more truth. For June was still hellbent on healing and doing right by people in her final days, so she revealed the truth about Charlie and well, that allowed for Alice to return to the beginning if you will. To her original hometown wherein she began to ponder upon questions and found answers that helped her to grow. Such as, what do we do when we learn that our life has been filled with trauma and pain and that has brought us down a dark path?

Well… we take a moment to breathe, and heal, and process what’s happened. So, we can begin to look at our life in an objective manner and understand the habits and steps that lead us to the darkness that we think is normal, and how to leave them behind. Which Alice did here. For she stayed with Charlie and Sally, and connected with her little brother and took the time to do just that. Wherein she slowly came to learn that she needed to love herself, first, and that she wasn’t responsible for the pain that was imparted upon her. It was merely the will of others, and that she no longer had to bend to those wills. She could forge her own path, she could offer forgiveness and kindness and heal, and the first step to making that happen was a choice.

Wherein she could reach out to her grandmother and offer that olive branch of peace, or answer Dylan’s calls once again since he was poking about, and she chose the former. To offer forgiveness and understanding, to start her healing journey and seize her life at last. But alas, June passed away before that could begin. Which in turn offered up another big question for Alice. In that… who then do we become when cannot find closure to our pain but are eager to heal? And well, Alice quickly came to learn… that we can be the bigger person, we can be better, and we can still heal. We merely need to hold to our plan to heal, to love us and be someone that offers forgiveness to ourselves and those who chose the wrong path. Which she did and found the beginnings of peace at last whilst also offering a message to us.

One that outright informed us… that Alice’s journey, isn’t unique. It’s an everyday thing. For so many women are abused physically, and emotionally, and too many are left to heal on their own or endure worse because they don’t have a support network and because we are afraid to talk about the truth. About how men will cross that line and cause such harm. Ergo, the time has come… to believe those that speak up and punish those that harm and make this no longer acceptable. So that there are no more ‘Lost Flowers’ as June put it, and there is only healing and growth and support in this life. Because that is what we all need, akin to a flower for certain and well, this was the right way to end this series. One that was bold, brilliant, and powerful, and put forth an amazing discussion on trauma, it’s lifelong impact and how it is never too late to let it go and move forward and heal.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 306 of ‘The Madame Blanc Mysteries’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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For those of us who grew up with siblings, the phrase ‘sibling rivalry’ carries a lot of weight. Because we lived through it. For now, and again we would indeed battle with our siblings over who would and could race down the hill the fastest or who could have the cooler toys when we were at our youngest, and that might have spilled over into our teenage years. Especially if we all got into competitive sports or found opportunities to shine. But thankfully, this is something that eventually burns out in adulthood because adulthood tends to bring with it an appreciation of family and a desire for all to get along.

But that’s not the case in every family. For sometimes, that rivalry continues into adulthood and the stakes get higher with the freedom that adulthood brings. To the point where the rivalry can be a bit scary in nature. In fact, sometimes it goes way too far, as evidenced by the next episode of The Madame Blanc Mysteries on Acorn TV. For ‘Kidnap’ explored how far a sibling rivalry can go, in the most unique manner of course. Because that’s how this series operates, and it surprised us with this particular concept by having Judith’s birthday celebration go to pot. For while the celebration was underway, an old friend named Nancy suddenly went missing and soon it became clear… she was kidnapped. 

Which of course meant that Jean was going to be on the case, especially since Nancy’s sister Delphine hadn’t a clue who might want to harm her. But Jeremy had some ideas that Jean and Dom were eager to explore and well… those leads sadly went nowhere. Instead, they merely revealed that a local gangster that was looking for love, ended up exposing a lothario in town. Who in turn ended up having his life rightfully ruined for being exposed as a cheater. Because he had a kid, and a wife that loved him. Well, no longer since we saw her toss his clothes to the curb down the line and well… the lack of solid leads left Jean beside herself.

But another look at the videos that were being sent in, flagged a clue in Jean’s mind. Because the kidnapper was wearing a familiar watch, one that led Jean to uncover that there was a hidden room in the restaurant where Nancy went missing. Wherein the police found Nancy, and the waiter that served the group at the birthday party, for it was he who was wearing that watch on that fateful day. But he wasn’t working alone, because that watch was a gift from Delphine, as part of payment to kidnap and shake down her sister and her rich friends. Because Delphine was deeply jealous of the path that Nancy took and wanted a slice, no matter the cost. 

All of which informed us, that when sibling rivalry goes too long and goes too far, it can get dangerous and dark and harmful. Giving rise to the reality that we need to let it go if it persists, so we can enjoy the wonder of family, and not resent it. Which was definitely a heavy lesson to learn here, one that was counterbalanced by Gloria’s lovely attempts, with Charlie’s help, to get back into the dating game and find what she needs in this life. For that sequence was simply sweet through and through and helped to bring together another great episode. One that once again featured a unique case for Jean to take part in, and it does leave us wondering, what kind of unique case awaits us in the season three finale of this magnificent series. Until next time.