Please enjoy this super-sized sneak peek from tonight’s new episode of The Hunting Party, which debuts on NBC, tonight at 10 p.m. EST!

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Series Premiere of ‘The Last Anniversary’.
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Normally stories about second chances and/or an opportunity to refresh and reinvent one’s life, are supremely positive in nature once the second chance and reset button appears, and understandably so. Because now we get to be treated to a story of growth. Where someone in need of direction can show us a way forward if by chance, we find ourselves in a spot similar to their own. Which is why it is always so shocking to encounter a story that bucks that trend. For we always see such matters as beautiful and not say, disruptive or unpleasant, but we honestly… should see that more, to give us perspective. Since reinvention isn’t pretty and second chances sometimes come at the cost of others.

Which is why the new AMC+ series, The Last Anniversary, is of note. For its series premiere informs us of the fact that it will be that alternative story regarding such matters, and so much more, all courtesy of a unique story for certain. One that introduces us to the inhabitants of Scribby Gum Island. A place that already harbors mysteries and secrets, thanks to its fascinating past involving an orphaned child named Enigma. But it is also a place in mourning in this tale. For Connie Munro has died and her final wishes, outright stun her family. For she has left her entire estate to a woman named Sophie Richardson. Who was once engaged to Thomas, another member of the family, and well, this move simply does not make sense to the family.

After all, they believed that Connie would entrust her estate to a Munro, and well, that creates chaos for the family and gives rise to a fascinating series premiere. One that makes it clear, that not every fresh start happens to be a true gift to the person in need of one. Because while Sophie is indeed at a tough place in her life and trying to find direction… she’s displacing a family and simply taking over a corner of her past that should be long forgotten. Which sets the stage for a powerful season of exploration. Wherein Sophie will have to navigate life as an heir, as she works to sort the chaos in her life and soul, and of course, learn why Connie thought her best to be the home’s new caretaker. Which should also in turn, open up old wounds and mysteries since this family clearly has some skeletons in its closet.

Yet, this premiere also makes it clear, that it is also going to offer up some amazing commentary on our world. Specifically, what life is like for women in the 21st Century. Since there are moments in this episode, that ponder deeply upon how dating in 2025 is a freakin’ nightmare, and how there are stunning expectations put upon a woman past the age of thirty when they have not started a family yet, and how that’s problematic somehow. Along with moments that speak to the silly expectations put upon women, period. Plus, there are hints of explorations to come, regarding how lost we find ourselves in this modern world and of course, how family life can sometimes be toxic, since there are members of the Munro family that are already insufferable, and that few will care for after watching this brilliant series premiere.

Since this does what a premiere should do. It sets the stage for the story, in a manner that is both grand and intimate. Since we learn so much about this island and this wild family. One that is hurting and is angry for reasons that might go beyond the most important aspect of this premiere. In that, it takes the time to present a fresh start story in a new light. Not to scare, not to insult, but to inform us that fresh starts are rare and require work to get us where we really want to go, and we need that message on display since so many now just want to hit the reset button. And it will be fascinating to go on this journey with Sophie and this family, as they navigate such complexities and life, courtesy of a story that is clearly eager to take us on a special and intimate journey that is both refreshing and unique. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 304 of ‘Dark Winds’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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For the most part, crime dramas tend to work in absolutes if you will. In that, they either focus heavily on the detective we come to love and their personal struggles or they lean into the casework. Likely because there is an opportunity there to do something with that character that no one else is doing in the genre or there’s a chance to dive into a crime that unsettles. But there’s also a chance this choice relates to how there’s risk that the story could lose its way and feel muddled. So, it’s safer to give us one or the other. Which is why it is important to celebrate crime dramas that have figured out how to explore both elements, since those offer up amazing stories. Such as Dark Winds on AMC.

For this show truly gets it and for proof, look no further than this week’s new episode. Because ‘Chahałheeł (Darkness Falls)’ offered up incredible balance since we enjoyed a storyline that saw Joe and the local police, chase after Michael Halsey, following his escape in the last episode. Because the police came to learn that the dude was doing more harm beyond nearly killing an associate, and potentially harming kids, it turned out he was straight up dealing coke out of his ranch. Which led to an urgent manhunt for certain, one that revealed that Halsey and his outfit are related to Tom Spenser’s dealings, and that was all the more reason to stay on the run. Since he knew he would pay a hard price from Spenser, since Budge was angry and dismissive of Halsey when he called Budge to save face.

But thanks to Joe’s keen eye, since he found a clue at the place where Halsey swapped cars, he was able to lure Halsey out of a hotel room and into a jail cell. Wherein he and Gordo did their best to get him to talk about what happened to the kids. And while he offered nothing there but sorrow to the families, while proclaiming his innocence, he did beg for a deal that would reveal Spenser’s holdings and that was enough for the moment to keep everyone happy, and that… led right into the storylines that explored in detail, the humanity of these characters. Because Jim Chee and Leaphorn wanted to know more about why Berndaette’s photo was in that barn, and that brought him face to face with Bernadette and at first, they stuck to the case and made some unique discoveries for certain.

Such as how there was a good chance that Spenser was a drug runner, and that his product was in the belly of the very trucks that Border Patrol was basically letting drive through on any given day. Since that would be the perfect cover for them. But once the details were in hand, and it became clear that someone at the Border Patrol was helping Spenser out, did downtime arrive and that led to some powerful moments between Bernadette and Jim. Wherein Jim at one point, took the time to confront Bernadette about the fire that burned between them and how he wanted her to come home and explore it. But she was hesitant and thought their chance had passed. So much so that she went into the arms of Ivan to prove it while Jim went home. Which made for an incredible and oddly relatable sequence since we’ve been in their spot.
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Not to mention, with Halsey behind bars, the time arrived for a bit of a reckoning with Joe. Because Agent Washington was pressing forward with her investigation and rightfully so, and that forced Joe to sit in when she was taking statements to serve as a translator as needed. Which forced him to face the reality that some people saw things on that night, and his unsettled nature over that and regarding the case in general, forced a hard confrontation between he and Sylvia. One that hinted that she might know, and that left Joe in a tough spot, as did his long talk with Emma. Who finally asked for the truth about that night and let him know she might not be able to live with what he’s done and that made for some powerful moments with Joe, that kind that we rarely see in these stories. Since cops don’t face any consequences for that kind of justice in this type of story all that often. Since what happens in the desert, stays in the desert.

Yet, while that all made for amazing balance for certain, this story still packed in more. Since it also toyed with the spiritual again. Since Joe went back to the office after that rough talk and dealt with broken fuses, horrible noises and one dead Halsey. Leaving one to wonder if there is a spirit punishing Joe or perhaps… there’s just a skilled killer at play here. One who uses fear and diversion to make horrors happen. Time will tell of course, but for now… we can celebrate one brilliant tale. For this one really did have balance. Since it harbored progress on the case and incredibly intimate moments with the characters we love, and that leaves us eager for more of this brilliant series. To see what will come of the case and the personal revelations present here. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Eight of ‘The Americas’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.

Our perception of the Caribbean and the many beautiful islands it harbors… is one related to relaxation. After all, this is the Caribbean we are talking about here. A place filled with beautiful beaches and waters as blue as the skies above. Which is the perfect place for people to unwind and forget about their troubles, and we are of course, able to do so, because we are the masters of the planet and can now create these spaces that only harbor nature as we see fit. But that’s the thing, despite our perceptions of this wondrous place, and our belief it bends to our will, nature continues to live and thrive, and what exists around us in ‘The Caribbean’ is explored in the next episode of The Americas on NBC.

For this episode took the time to showcase what you find away from the scuba lessons and umbrella drinks. Such as the fact that beautiful waters that surround these islands are just filled to the brim with stunning life. For instance, this is a place where sperm whales thrive. For it is the perfect place to raise their young since it has all the food and calm, they need to keep going, and they’re not the only ones who use these islands as a nursery. For the lemon shark will come here to give birth to its young, and once those pups are out of the womb, they head into the many mangroves present in this part of the world to learn how to safely hunt, so they can properly survive in the world when they are old enough.

But that is but a sampling of what kind of wildlife thrives within these beautiful islands. Because on land you’ll find all kinds of creatures going about their business. For instance, there are capuchin monkeys that have figured out how to find food on both the shores and in the trees. Which is critical since many of them live on isolated islands where the food chain is not as robust as it is in other places. But they make do. Not to mention there are also beautiful hummingbirds that call these islands home, and they work hard to protect the beautiful plants that sustain them. Because offering upkeep and keeping predators away that will tear the plant that they call home to shreds, ensures that their line will prevail since those plants often help to attract a mate, in addition to offering food.

However, while we were treated to great beauty in this tale, and offered a stunning look at how much life surrounds us when we’re on vacation in this part of the world, we also sometimes forget, that this can be a dangerous place as well. After all, these islands and their location, make them a breeding ground for Hurricanes and they’re also in the path of them, so these places are often battered by the winds and debris those storms bring. Not to mention, the arrival of man has made life a little scary for some of the wildlife in this place. Since the red land crabs here not only have to endure high temps that can cook them on their trek to the seas, to give birth to their young, but the highways that we have built are a problem for them as well. Since sadly, cars tend to not break for land crabs.

All of which showcased, a world of chaos and beauty, really, and all those amazing moments made for another powerful and engaging episode from this series. One that really did once again, showcase the duality of the world we thrive in and how paradise isn’t always Mai Tais and dinner on the beach. But a fight for life, and that definitely makes one grateful for the world we’ve created and reminds us to be mindful of the one that surrounds it. All so that we can continue to enjoy its majesty when we look to it to provide us with calm. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Six of ‘Grosse Pointe Garden Society’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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Over the course of the past few weeks, we’ve learned a lot about our world, and what drives people to darkness, courtesy of the fascinating new NBC series, Grosse Pointe Garden Society. For this show has left no Azealia unturned when it comes to exploring how marginalization can drive people to dark acts, as can the shock of learning that the world isn’t as rosy as we are led to believe, and through the discovery that most of what we are taught about the world and the American Dream have real falsehoods to them. Because they are outdated concepts that offer advice for generations gone by and well, while that seems like enough to understand what made the Garden Society do something awful… there is still more to learn.

As evidenced by what ‘Plant Parenthood’ showcased. For this was a story that made it clear that another element that breaks people and turns them toward the darkness, is the sheer fact that there comes a point where some learn… that the control they think they have over their lives, is also a falsehood. Which can bring about real devastation and listlessness and that poisons a soul as badly as a bug infestation can destroy a garden, and it explored such concepts in a fascinating manner. In part, by way of Catherine’s unique journey in this story. Because she spent a lot of time here, dealing with the stark reality of being a stay-at-home mom. Since kids are forces of nature in their own right and haven’t a clue what they do has an impact upon adults… because they’re kids and they just don’t have that capacity yet.

But their wake does hit a parent hard. For Catherine was struggling with the hurricane-esque disasters left behind when her children played and her responsibility to them, got in the way of her personal interests. Since it cost her a job back in the world of real estate and while she expressed love for them, the frustration was real and that can wear upon a person. Because it taught her how little control she had this in situation, and that truly left us worried about her, and she wasn’t the only one dealing with parental surprises. Since Birdie came to learn that money can’t buy control, it can only buy disdain and resentment, despite what it does for people. Since her bailouts of Ford only pushed him away from her further and that left her in a strange place mentally.

Plus, Brett found himself in the midst of the illusion of control in this story. One that set the stage for the shock he will experience down the line. Because he truly thought he was the coolest of dad after saving a birthday party, dance off debacle that Connor created. Fully unaware of the fact that Connor was plotting against him to be the ultimate parent, and that was tough to see play out. Not to mention, Alice had quite the shocking reveal regarding control in this tale. Since she came to learn that Patty was the one buying up all of Doug’s art and that she was doing so and giving them that life… to control them. To get her grandchild and have the path she wanted and that exertion of power over Alice and Doug was a lot to bear and left Alice in a tough place. 
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But of course, while that once again gave us a lot to ponder upon, which we will get to in a moment, we have much to discuss regarding the matter with Quiche. For this episode revealed that more clues are out there and that’s a problem. Since we learned that Marilyn, who also underwent her own exploration regarding a lack of control over her marriage and life, dealt with a hideous animal related crisis on the night in question. One that put her face to face with a car that apparently resembled Gary’s car, and she saw the quilt that was unveiled at the event. A truth she revealed to Alice, who was paying back a mystery favor set up in this tale, and that’s huge. Because that’s a witness, and there were a lot of clues that related to Gary being Quiche in this tale.

But they were just clues, nothing solid, which kept us guessing still. But while we wait to see how these clues come together; we can celebrate another smart tale. One that showcased how there are situations in America where people don’t have control of their lives and that can make them snap because we want to be captains of our soul and cannot stand the thought of someone else pulling those strings. Not to mention, this story harbored some amazing commentary on the wealth divide in our nation and how the rich buy and sell people in this day and age, and well… all of these elements leave us eager to enjoy more from this genius series. To see what kinds of cautionary moments will come forth from that commentary and of course… to learn what happened on that fateful night. Until next time.

To learn more about the creation of Joel and Tucker, check out our interviews with the actors that play them, Matthew Davis and Jocko Sims.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Six of ‘Suits’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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It is definitely safe to say, that we learn early on in life, that second chances are almost an impossibility. Because the choices we make, and the impact they have upon other people and our lives, tend to be deeply permanent. So, we learn to live with the choices we make, and that leads us to believe that second chances will never come our way. But that’s the funny thing about the universe, and life. In that, now and again, when we hope to make changes to our lives for the better… we run into moments where we are given a second chance. That grand opportunity to right a wrong and perhaps push in a new direction.

But that of course, is a confusing moment for certain. Because we don’t expect it, and it goes against the grain of what we know. Not to mention, we aren’t always sure we are worthy or capable of embracing it. For we are creatures of habit and pattern that decry change despite it being around us, and we tend to believe we deserve the path we are given when we make mistakes. But it is possible in that moment to seize it, to rise above and become something more and start a new path in life, as evidenced by the next episode of Suits LA on NBC. For ‘Dester’ saw that opportunity arrive in the midst of the Lester Thompson case, shortly after… we obtained all the details on many of the mysteries surrounding both Lester and Ted. 

For this episode made sure to showcase the truth regarding that night, and how in essence, Stuart was right. For Lester revealed to Kevin that the anger and mess of that night forced him to act in self-defense to see another day, and Kevin made sure to keep that confession for a rainy day and in between the case we will soon discuss, were moments that finally revealed, that what sent Ted to Los Angeles and in disgrace, was not knowing when to let go of the case and worry about what matters. Which was Samantha and her well-being, and it was his ignorance, that put a grand divide between them, as did his ego on the matter and all of that was critical to this episode because we needed to see the full picture so we would and could properly understand the second chance sitting before Ted in this particular tale. 

Because as the case went on, and he and Elizabeth battled back and forth in a desperate attempt to shatter Elizabeth’s credibility and sow doubt in the minds of the jury, she kept counterpunching, hard. In fact, she brought out a star witness that basically put the nail in the coffin for Lester and that, put Ted at the at the universal crossroads in question. Wherein he could either put the case upon his shoulders, and his ego/belief that only he could deliver a not guilty verdict and see where that would take him, or do things right for a change, and ask for help and treat those that matter with reverence to make this a team victory over anything else. And for a short time, it seemed as though he was going to do what so many of us do and stick with what works and hold to patterns because that’s what we think is always right. 
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Which brought about chaos, to the point where Stuart pissed off Rick by offering Erica a job and where the air was indeed heavy over Ted Black’s firm. But getting the truth from Lester and learning that Kevin had his back in a manner that allowed for Ted for be objective, taught him that this was his chance to get it right, that if he tried a new path, he could save a life instead of being responsible for one and that prompted him… to see Stuart. Wherein they made up as best they could, so that Stuart could use his vast knowledge to find a way to change the plea and present the right evidence, and lo and behold… he found it. Via the transcript that Elizabeth wanted in the trial so badly, and that allowed for the truth to come forth and for Ted to land a huge win and truly start… his reinvention process. To the point where he even apologized to Samantha.

But what matters most, is that this episode showcased how second chances arrive and how important it is that we embrace the opportunity. For the universe does want us to find meaning, to find direction that we can apply ourselves to, so we can learn, so we can grow and be the people we wanted to be in our youth, and that made… for a satisfying and epic tale. One that really put Ted and the team to the test and offered up, another chapter closed in this saga. For it seems every three episodes, the story completes an arc in Ted’s redemption/reinvention story. Since we’ve seen him decide upon reinvention in the first three episodes, and we’ve seen him embrace it in the next three, and it will be interesting to see what lie ahead for Ted Black and his now salvaged law firm as he enters the next chapter in this journey. One with far less pressure upon him now that peace is being made and now that Ted is finding his way forward in the darkness. Until next time.

Often times, crime dramas that re-tell the tale of how an infamous killer was caught or infamous case was closed, focus heavily on the investigator and the hunt for truth. Which makes sense. Because in a way, the audience is detached from the darkness and being alongside someone who deeply cares about justice and righting a wrong allows for the viewer to connect to the story. To care, to want what that intrepid investigator wants, and that gives rise to a fascinating journey. Where both the audience and the investigator feel the pain and the weight of the case and eventually, there is outright relief when justice is finally served, and while this is indeed an impactful formula for certain, it does miss out on something critical.
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In that, it offers too narrow of a perspective. Because that crime did far more than just motivate a single investigator, or duo of them… to push to bring justice to the forefront of everyone’s mind. For there were people left behind, and families that weep from injuries sustained and lives lost, and they are often forgotten in these tales. Perhaps because they did not want their likeness to be featured in it, but more than likely… because there is an odd belief that the audience won’t properly feel their pain or understand their plight since we are the outsider. But truly, stories in this vein should feature that more, because empathy does more than we know and because… perhaps that could push us collectively to demand better safeguards to prevent crime. To stop this kind of suffering and slowly and surely… shows and movies in this genre are shifting toward a different perspective.

In fact, Viaplay is now home to a story that features a look at the pain people feel when a loved one is murdered in The Hunt. Which it accomplishes by transporting us into two time periods. 1999 and 2012 so that we learn the complete story regarding the death of Marianne Vaatstra. Who was found dead at 16 and her case went unsolved for a little over a decade. In fact, it took exhaustive work to bring the killer to light, and through the use of a grandiose DNA swab campaign. Which finally revealed who was behind this heinous crime, and well… that is indeed the first thing that sets this crime drama apart from so many. In that, it is stunningly comprehensive, and truly showcases every corner of the case so that we are informed and so that we do care. But it truly goes above and beyond once we have the facts in hand.

Because each episode of this series, focuses on someone related to the case, and we watch and learn in great detail how Marianne’s passing impacted them and how it created fear in the community. Which in turn offers up a vastly unique crime drama. Because we really come to understand the impact of her passing upon the community. Of the void that murder creates and how it inspires real fear in people But, more importantly, we really come to understand how much it hurt her family, her friends, to lose her in such a hideous manner. Which offers new perspective for this kind of story and truly has you rooting for the intrepid detectives in question. Not just because they are a force for good. But because of what are now privy to. For we are now part of a violation, a perversion of the course of lives and that makes for a powerful story.

One that stays with you for a long time after its ended, simply because of the new perspective you gain upon such matters, and it is so comprehensive and so thorough, that you even receive unexpected perspectives, the kind that we will not spoil here. Simply because this powerhouse series needs to be experienced firsthand. So that you properly go on this journey and all the emotions it sends your way and that is why this series needs to be celebrated and needs to be talked about. For it is indeed revolutionary in nature and just plain engaging. Courtesy of amazing writing, amazing acting, and above all… because it feels less akin to a show and more as though you’re a silent observer along for the ride, and the best news of all, is you can experience this show today. For it is currently streaming on Viaplay and we hope you give it a look. Because this one is special, courtesy of its unique and intimate spin on a staple of the genre.

Please enjoy this sneak peek and synopsis of the series premiere of The Last Anniversary, which debuts tomorrow on AMC+!
 
Episode 1 – Premieres Sunday, March 30 on AMC+
Sophie Honeywell has just inherited a house on Scribbly Gum Island – a mysterious gift that threatens to unearth secrets held close by the three generations of women who call this remarkable island their home.

Please enjoy this sneak peek and synopsis of Episode 304 of Dark Winds, which debuts on AMC and AMC+, tomorrow!
 
Episode 304 – "Chahałheeł (Darkness Falls)” – Premieres Sunday, March 30 at 9pm ET/PT on AMC/AMC+
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Chee pays Manuelito a visit after discovering a link between their cases. Leaphorn pursues a fugitive suspect. Special Agent Washington interviews an eyewitness to the crime she's investigating.
Directed by Chris Eyre
Written by Thomas Brady and Erica Tremblay

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 403 of ‘Power Book III: Raising Kanan’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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Over the course of the past couple of weeks, we’ve talked at length about the majesty of entering new chapters in life, courtesy of the amazing journeys present in the hit STARZ series, Power Book III: Raising Kanan. For everyone in this story is embarking on something new, and they have indeed enjoyed the wonder of a fresh journey. But since this story is a crime drama, and leans into realism, it makes total sense as to why the next episode of this amazing series… opted to point out that eventually, our new chapters lose their luster and showcase struggles because life is all about ups and downs. Which ‘The Way We Were’ accomplished by having just about everyone in this story experience just that.

After all Lou came to learn that the freedom he was enjoying in the music business wasn’t meant to last. For while he was crafting Rilla’s new record, a new producer arrived on the scene named Imani. Who knew her stuff and was indeed forced upon Lou and the project, which pissed off Lou to no end. Because he thought he was the sole producer in this division and felt as though this was a disrespectful move. But it was happening either way and he had to learn to navigate working with a partner and doing so in a manner that was respectful and that was no easy task. But while he and Imani found some measure of peace, the reality was there that this new chapter for Lou was going to have some bumps and bruises, and he will indeed have to figure out how to navigate those. 

Speaking of bumps and bruises, well those were everyone to be found for the rest of the family as well. Since Marvin and Raq dealt with more issues involving Unique. Since he tucked in with Early, who Marvin brought to Stefano to expand the bookie business, and that was ominous, especially after Unique made quite the move here. Since he shot up the warehouse that Raq was using to move her supply. Which added more red flags around her business and prompted her to make her biggest move to date. In that, she went straight to the top to become a supplier and wholesaler to make more profit and have more power, and while she may get what she wants, this new chapter for her will be messy to navigate because of Unqiue’s thirst for revenge, and she wasn’t the only dealer struggling to find agency here.

Because Kanan was also working to make big moves on his own behalf in this story. Since he continued to make it known that he wanted to be out of Raq’s shadow and that prompted Snaps and Pop to give him a chance to do so. By landing him a meeting with Quan. So, he could showcase his talents and plead his case. A move that was also designed to get him in front of Stefano, to see what he could do to get more product and work on the streets. But alas, while his meeting with Quan went well, Stefano and his vast years of experience in the business… allowed for a sour meeting to take place. One where he recognized and respected Kanan’s ambition but made sure to point out the rock-solid relationship Raq and Stefano enjoyed, and the boss also spoke to the disrespect that came forth by way of Kanan, by not working closer with his mother to further learn the business.
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All of which hammered home that central theme to a tee and in a way, refocused the show on the criminal aspects that are its outright core. But while it was lovely to see that tie into a deeper theme, there was more that this episode offered as well. Since it also spoke to how the 1990s, while more progressive in nature, were still a rotten time for members of the LGBTQIA+ community and where toxic masculinity ran rampant. Which was handled by Jukebox’s journey here. Who was hit hard by a jealous husband who saw her with his wife, and the abuse he imparted on both of them, prompted Marvin to get involved. Which led to an ugly moment that forced Jukebox to engage in self-defense and manslaughter to keep Marvin safe. 

But the crimes that were committed aside, that did indeed reflect the era. For there were men with fragile egos who could not comprehend that maybe just maybe, they were not what their wives and girlfriends wanted because of what they discovered about their preferences, and this also showcased that violence against members of the LGBTQIA+ community went unnoticed then. Because people just weren’t quite ready to fight for equality in the early 1990s, and that important storyline added… to a quality episode. One that really did offer up an engaging story filled with depth and struggles for these amazing characters and set the stage for more conflict down the line as they all fight for agency and peace in their new journeys. Until next time.