Caution: This article contains spoilers for the season one finale of ‘The Outlaws’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
​
Often times in storytelling, explorations revolving around redemption are quite grand and inspiring in nature. Wherein a character that has either done people horribly wrong or fallen from grace because of their ignorance, do everything within their power to set things right again and well… that journey is what brings about the inspiration in question. Because there is something quite powerful about watching a person that has screwed up royally and hurt people in the process, stand tall and admit they are wrong and do whatever it takes to finally set things right again and we love this type of story, because it reminds us that we can always come back and we can always make things right if we truly dedicate ourselves to doing good in the world.
​
But what you don’t see in stories in that vein, are people who have committed crimes. Simply because in our modern world, the only ways to redeem oneself after taking part in such an act… is through jail time and probation and community service. And through surviving the stigma that people will throw one’s way when they learn, that person broke the law. But that is a silly way to think about folks that have crossed that line, because everyone is capable of redemption, and everyone deserves it and even folks that broken the rules can do so in an inspiring manner, and the season one finale of The Outlaws is a story that hammers that reality home. For the group figured out how to enjoy redemption in this particular tale and they made that happen... by risking everything to help one man, have a proper shot at a normal life.

That man of course… was Christian, whom we learned was actually named Ben Eastfield. And the reason that Ben harbored a different name, was because the longtime nemesis he’s been toying with all this time, needed Ben to take his namesake to say out of jail. So, he could continue to care for his family and deal drugs and Ben was eager to do so… in the hopes of keeping his family safe and well, armed with the knowledge that Ben desperately needed help, the Outlaws hit the road and began to quite literally search every corner of the city to find him. Which brought them to Ben’s old stomping grounds, wherein they met his mother and saw the rough shape she was in and sadly, Rani had to resort to rough tactics in order to get an idea of where Christian might actually be hiding, and those tactics worked and eventually brought everyone back together. 

But even then, the joy of re-assembling the group was short lived. Because while they could likely offer Ben and Esme safety, the gun and the law in general had to be dealt with, and that was going to be a difficult task, as would dealing with Christian and his cronies. Especially when one considers that they were tailing the group all this time in the hopes of getting revenge, and that led to quite the chase sequence when Christian showed up. One that forced the Outlaws to scatter about the city to shake Christian and his people, so that they could safely reunite at the work site that brought them together in the first place and sadly… there was no safety to be found there. For Christian had his spies keep an eye on the place and that allowed for him to close in and threaten as only he can and well, that’s really when this group came together and truly enjoyed a genuine taste of redemption.

For they stood up to Christian and made it clear that harming Ben would cause him great harm and seeing that he’d lost the fight today, motivated him to back off and once that victory was in play, the next real opportunity to do the right thing arose. Because the police scooped everyone up and tried very hard to tie Ben to the gun and criminal activity, and that motivated everyone, even Diana, to take the high road and go the extra mile to exonerate Ben. A move that worked, since the police could not bring charges against Ben without any corroborating evidence and he was allowed to go free and pick up his own Community Payback time for a change and well… life went on for these intrepid Outlaws and they went back to work to clean that ol’ rec center up, with growth in their hearts of course.

Because for the first time in a long time, they were selfless, they were kind, and they were courteous. And they truly banded together and did something wonderful for a person that was in genuine need and gave Ben and his sister a chance to thrive in a society that would prefer the cycle perpetrate and that is, a wonderful way to bring this season to a close. Because this episode brings everyone’s journey about full circle and allowed for them to complete their growth and accomplish wonders in the process and you really cannot go wrong with a story that teaches both the audience and the characters some important lessons, all while finding new ways to move these fictional characters forward in life. Nor is it a bad thing that these ‘criminals’ were showcased as the everyday people they are, who really did find themselves in a pickle and forged a unique path forward in a realistic manner, one that both inspires and satisfies, and it will be interesting to see where this story goes next, when season two rolls around. Until next time.   

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the series premiere of ‘Ten Percent’.
​
Something that is truly fascinating about Hollywood, is that it is so popular and so beloved… that just about everyone has a rudimentary understanding of how it works. We know that actors and other talents have agents, who just so happen to deal with detailed contracts. Plus, we harbor basic knowledge about budgets and shooting schedules and how special effects work and what makes this so fascinating, is that this kind of shared knowledge really doesn’t exist for any other industry out there. Since few of us know how steel work is done, or what goes into practicing law. But it makes sense as to why we are obsessed with the details of the industry.

Because Hollywood brings us great joy and an escape from tough times and knowing a little more about it and the people that work within it, somehow brings us closer to what brings us joy. Which is also why we eat up television shows that focus on the agency world and the industry in general, to once again inch closer to the world that does so much for our mental health and well, the time has come to celebrate the wonder of Hollywood once again, by way of a brand-new series on Sundance Now. For Ten Percent is a show that focuses upon the Nightingale/Hart Agency in Great Britain and the adventures of the people that work there and that setting allows for the first two episodes of this series, to give us exactly what we want and need from a show in this vein.

For we are plunged into conversations about contracts and who is going to get what movie, and that kind of juicy stuff just immerses us in the experience, as do the incredible guest stars that pop up in these first two episodes. Because it is just amazing to see Kelly Macdonald and Helena Bonham Carter and Olivia Williams guest star and play themselves, since it adds to that insider illusion, and there is also a thrill that comes with watching some of the characters go to auditions and work the process. But while that is definitely fun and thrilling and satisfies our love of the industry, for a show such as this to be genuinely successful… it has to give the audience more than just the glamour and glitz and thankfully… it does.

Because in between those insider moments… is some genuine humanity. Since we get to know each and every member of the team and what makes them tick, and how hard it is at times to be part of a business that rests so rarely and that is really what draws you into this tale. Because it adds realism to this show and allows for us to connect with so many of these dynamic agents and it also pulls us in, because there are some genuine surprises present in these first two episodes and some high stakes. Such as the fact that one of the firm’s founders, Richard Nightingale, dies unexpectedly. Leaving his firm lost and rattled. Which in turn forces everyone to figure out how to move forward without the heart of the company and they also have to navigate through the power of grief and loss at the same time.
​
Which also leads to some powerful moments since we all know, such matters are painfully difficult to handle when the pressure is on. But this is their new normal going forward and what’s amazing… is that the wonder of this story, doesn’t end there. Because this is also a comedy at heart, and that means we are treated to some genuinely hilarious moments. The kind that allows for the guest stars to be goofy and have a little fun, and it also allows for the characters to be subjected to some genuinely quirky and hilarious and awkward moments for certain, and for proof… then look no further than the crazy twist that takes place at the end of ‘Episode 2’.

In the end however, this particular series is simply a delightful watch through and through. Largely because it offers the complete package to the audience since you’ll find drama and humor and meaning here. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that it offers up a unique setting. One we haven’t seen in a while. Because it really has been a hot minute since we’ve been treated to a show that digs deep into the nature of Hollywood and its intricate dealings and well, if you get the chance, make sure you swing by Sundance Now as soon as you can to give this lovely little a show a look. Because this one really is refreshing and fun and a wonderful palate cleanser in just about every way imaginable, and it will be quite interesting to see where this magnificent show is going to take us in the weeks to come as everyone at Nightingale/Hart enters a bold new chapter in the company’s storied history. Until next time.  

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Five of ‘The Outlaws’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
​
Over the course of the past few weeks, we’ve talked at length about the incorrect stigmas that surround crime and the people that commit such acts, courtesy of some fascinating explorations from the Prime Video series, The Outlaws. For this is a series that genuinely wants to help us to understand that a fair chunk of crimes committed in this world, don't relate to stereotypes and malice, and are instead the result of mistakes and misgivings and bad situations, and that those who have crossed that line… deserve a second chance like anyone else, and an opportunity to break the cycle that might be keeping them in a dark place from where it seems there is no escape. But while the show has indeed done a wonderful job of exploring those concepts and change perceptions in the process, it has yet to do something critical regarding its commentary.
​
In that, it has offered little guidance as to how one breaks the cycle or what truly motivates change for folks that feel stuck after a life-changing event of this caliber and well… as it turns out, there was good reason to sideline that part of this grand examination. All so that it could arrive at the right moment, when both the characters and the audience were properly ready to move forward and it turns out, that the next episode of this series, was that perfect moment. For with Christian on the run and the Outlaws more or less in a tough place and ready to commit new crimes because they have no other options… the time was definitely right to give them the opportunity to make major changes to their lives and move in a different direction, and this episode provided them with that... by having the majority of these dynamic characters… hit rock bottom.

Because it is only when we are at our lowest, are we able to take an objective look at our lives and what matters and doesn’t matter and make changes accordingly and while everyone didn’t exactly hit the bottom in this tale, there were enough wake up calls here to make a difference. Frank for instance, was finally exposed by his nephew and was forced to own up to his actions at last, giving him great perspective that he’s never experienced before, and he wasn’t the only one forced to take a good long look at their life. Since Gabby finally came to realize that her father really doesn't take her seriously in the slightest and being exposed to that reality hurt badly and forced her to take inventory as well. And anyone who didn’t have that kind of surprise… well their wake-up call came forth by way of what Rani realized about how she and the others... had treated Christian.

In that, they had stood idly by and let him hurt further and didn’t support him in a real time of need and that wasn’t right, and that in turn helped her to understand that she needed to stop hiding behind the façade she’d built and do something good for a change, instead of following a checklist that gave her no fulfillment. That in turn, motivated her to reach out to the others and point out that they have all built relationships with one another during Community Payback. The kind that were special and binding and that the time was now to quit pretending they weren’t friends and do something to help Christian in his time of need and that resonated with everyone else, save for John. Because they realized she was right, and that this experience was a transformative wake-up call. One that taught them the same lesson that Rani came to comprehend and that allowed for quite the plan to come to fruition.
​
Wherein, they would work to keep Diana busy just long enough to get her keys. So, they could break into her hybrid office/storage closet and get everything they needed to know about Christian so they could quickly help him in this dark hour of need. Which is a plan that went off without a hitch. Because ninety-nine percent of them, worked together as a team and made magic happen by coming together in such a seamless manner, and this teamwork and good will was so strong… that it extended beyond the plan when the police showed up to look at that file as well. So that Rani could escape unscathed and oddly enough, that smooth effort brought about quite the surprise as well. Since we came to learn… that Christian isn’t who he says he is. But that little twist will have to wait for another time to explore and in the meantime... we can bask in the wonder of the answer this show provided us with regarding a way forward for folks in this situation. 

In that, objectivity is the key to breaking the cycle and focusing on what the future looks like. Since that will help those struggling to see the root causes of their troubles, and how that traps them. Which in turn should motivate them to want to do things differently and walk a better path and it was just incredible to see almost every character here, view their lives in that manner at last and demand change and push for it and accomplish wonders in the process and well, that’s a wonderful way to set up the season finale of this saga. Because just like that, this story is suddenly filled with hope and there is a real chance at redemption here for the Outlaws, if they can stay the course and keep their eyes on the prize and it will be interesting to see what comes next for this motley crew, now that they are mostly unified and determined to save their friend in need. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 209 of ‘Star Trek: Picard’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
​
When we last settled in to discuss the wondrous and epic Paramount+ series, Star Trek: Picard, we talked a little bit about how the show had done a wonderful job of setting the stage… for an epic run of episodes to close out season two. For we came to learn that Q was dying and desperate to make a mark upon the universe and thought that having Jean-Luc take part in a bold act to save the future might aid in that and of course… evil was thriving. For the Borg Queen had finally taken control of Dr. Jurati’s mind and had begun to build herself a fine new collective, one furnished by a resurgent and angry Dr. Soong. Which meant, the odds were against our heroes, and the stage for a big finish was set, and it would only be a matter of time before this show shifted into more action-oriented territory.
​
Oddly enough, it turned out that the series wasted little time in bringing the action to fruition. For this week’s episode of the show, hit the ground running with action and adventure, before adding a little depth for good measure and it accomplished those feats… by bringing the resurgent Borg Collective to La Sirena’s doorstep. For in the opening moments of ‘Hide and Seek’, the queen and her new brood quickly transported in and mostly seized the ship, since Jurati revealed to the Queen she locked out the main computer. Which left a now reunited away team unsure of how to proceed… other than to fight hard of course. Since the Borg wasted little time in opening fire on Picard and his friends, leaving them with no choice but to transport a wounded Rios and his new friends out of the situation before splitting up to try and retake the ship.

An act that proved quite difficult for certain. For Picard and Tallinn were forced into the tunnels beneath the Chateau by Soong and his endless taunting and Raffi and Seven had no choice but to take their lumps and fight with all their might to get to the ship and even when they did… retaking the old girl was no easy task. For the Borg were everywhere, and for a time it appeared there would be little hope of retaking the ship and saving it and their friends from an old foe. But thanks to an Elnor hologram created by Jurati before her assimilation, one that carried the command codes… they were able to beam the Borg Drones into bad places before retaking control, and Raffi also received a touch of closure thanks to the hologram. But alas, this victory was fleeting at best.

For it didn’t take long for the Borg Queen to re-gain the upper hand and badly injure Seven in the process, making it appear as though… the end was nigh for humanity at the hands of the Borg at last. But just then… a powerful hero emerged, in Jurati. Because from inside her mind… she worked to reason with the Queen and pointed out how this path of conquering and assimilation and cruelty led to nothing but strife and pain for the Borg… and complete and utter failure. And that perhaps, the time had come to try a different approach for the Collective, one where fear and control didn’t rule the day and shockingly… the Queen listened to Jurati’s pleas and decided to try this different way and saved Seven. But she took the ship, giving rise to a new future for the Borg. One that will be fascinating to learn about at some point down the line. 

While Seven and Raffi experienced that wild ride, Picard and Tallinn used the admiral’s extensive knowledge of the Chateau to escape Soong and his forces and this surprisingly… allowed for an important plot line to finally be resolved. Because in order to properly navigate these catacombs, Picard had to dig deep into the past and really ponder upon the last time he was down here with his father and that brought back memories of that dark day that he and Tallinn briefly examined while he was trapped within his mind. As it turned out, he was stuck in this place on a day that his mother was badly struggling with her mental health and had it not been for his father, he might not have escaped the catacombs. But what’s incredible, is that reflecting upon that moment in a time of crisis, allowed for other memories to come flooding back, including the one he has been suppressing all this time.
​
Which sadly… involved the tragic fate of his mother. Because the coda to that frightening day in the dark, ended with Jean-Luc opening the door to his mother’s safe room. Which in turn let her out while he slept and sadly… his mother took her own life when presented with the opportunity and that moment, and the rage and pain and suppression that Picard poured into it, formed the man we know today. One that wanted to save lives and help as many people as he can, because of the regret he had in his heart over not seeing his mother grow old and live a full life and it was fascinating to learn all of that, and it was powerful to see Jean-Luc finally face his past and make peace with it after years of letting it torture him and well, this could not have come at a better time. 

Because despite Rios coming back to save his friends and chase Soong off in the process, Adam Soong was… still out there and still eager to have his ego indulged by creating a future where he was worshipped as a savior of mankind. And with the ship now surrendered to the Borg, and everyone’s spirits at an all-time low… they needed a leader to really them to the cause and Jean-Luc quickly gave them just that. For Picard wasted little time in rallying everyone to focus and prepare to fight, because they still had a future to save and would need their wits about them and just like that, the crew followed their leader’s advice and refocused and prepared for one last battle with Soong to preserve the timeline… and they might finally have a way forward in doing so. 

Simply because the Queen did pass along a message to Seven as to how to save the day. In that, two Renée’s are the key to this mess, one that lives, one that dies. Which is… a fascinating bit of advice for Picard and company, one that sadly… we will have to wait to see come to fruition. But while we do, we can bask in the wonder of one epic tale. For this one had everything, action, adventure and deeper meaning and a push for an age-old villain to be better and more than they are and of course… it set the stage for one final showdown between Picard and Soong. One where the stakes are sky high since a better tomorrow hangs in the balance, and it will be quite interesting to see how Picard and his friends will save the future with little to no resources at their fingertips. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the series premiere of ‘Shining Girls’.
​
We are taught from a very early age, that life is going to be difficult, and it is going to hurt us both emotionally and physically, and we are taught this lesson young for one reason and one reason alone… to steel our nerves and prepare us for what it is to come. That way when the hurt does arrive, we are a touch more prepared than we expected to be and we can quickly recover from life’s little moments of sorrow and move on with strength in our hearts. But while it is indeed wonderful to learn that lesson and apply it liberally as we take our lumps through the journey… there is a downside to this particular lesson. In that, our parents and our guardians, don’t tell us the complete truth about the world and life.

Specifically, how there is going to come a day when we are hurt badly by events that are often out of our control, and while we will indeed survive those difficult moments and live to see another day, the lasting damage they cause us, will haunt us, and leave us a shell of who we are. And in order to find our way back from that level of trauma and to obtain peace and joy, great work and bravery will be involved. Which is a lesson that begs an important question, in that… why didn’t we learn this when we were younger? And the answer to that is simple… because we are afraid to talk about how tough the world can be and the trauma it can send our way. Because we believe that doing so, might introduce fear into our hearts and motivate us to hide away from the world and never quite live life to the fullest.
​
When in reality, such a lesson would do us a great service and save us years of strife and struggle and well, the good news, is that we are finally talking about trauma as a whole in our everyday life and in popular culture as well and teaching others how to confront it and what the journey back looks like. If anything, this is relevant to our discussion today, simply because Apple TV+ is now host to a new series entitled, Shining Girls, that explores the power of trauma and its realistic impact upon our lives and it accomplishes this incredible feat, by plunging us into the world of a person named Kirby Mazrachi, who is badly suffering from it and its aftereffects. For years ago… Kirby was seemingly randomly and violently attacked by someone and badly injured in the process both physically and emotionally.

Which puts her in a unique place mentally when we meet her in ‘Cutline’, ‘Evergreen’ & ‘Overnight’, since the Kirby we are introduced to is reserved and anxious and eager to escape the environment that hurt her by quitting her job at the Chicago Sun-Times and moving to Florida. But before she departs the Windy City, word from the police regarding a strange case involving someone with similar injuries to her own… motivates her to sit down with star reporter Dan Velazquez to dig into this further, since he is currently covering the story and well… it doesn’t take long for the two of them to make some stunning discoveries. In that, Kirby and the woman that lost her life… do indeed share the same injuries, and that leads Kirby to believe that there are more women out there with injuries such as her own and it turns out… she’s right.

For there are countless unsolved cases that are a mirror to Kirby’s attack and that leads her and Dan to realize that they are dealing with a serial monster. One that might have the ability to travel through time since there are some odd anachronisms at the various crime scenes they leave behind and this being… will soon focus his attention on the both of them. For Harper has indeed taken notice that Dan is investigating this case with impunity and that has him both worried and nervous. For he’s been at this long time and wants nothing more than to continue his twisted work in peace and solitude, putting Kirby and Dan on a collision course with a monster that they are barely beginning to understand and well… at first glance, that doesn’t seem to be a story all that grounded in trauma. 
​
After all, there are a lot of moving parts to a plot such as that but make no mistake about it… this is a story about the lasting power of trauma, as evidenced by a great deal of what Kirby goes through in this tale. Because when she isn’t hunting a monster… she really is struggling. To fit in, to be social, to accomplish simple tasks and to focus on the moment. In fact, she gets so lost in her own thoughts, that she has to keep a diary of sorts, to ground her and help her understand how her reality is literally shifting about her. Which likely relates to the fact that she has a tie to Harper and his powers by surviving his attack, but from a metaphorical standpoint… an ever-shifting reality is the perfect way to express how trauma takes over one’s mind and forces one to lose themselves in thoughts that are pleasant or distracting in nature. So, one doesn’t have to face the horrors of what was and well… that’s a brave and bold way to express trauma.

Because it truly puts the chaos it creates on display and it forces us to see it alongside her, making it real and tangible and uncomfortable and it forces the audience to really understand what trauma is about. But where this story truly shines… is in its desire to see Kirby emerge from it. For we quickly learn that this assault derailed a brilliant career in journalism and obviously, robbed Kirby of happiness and peace and well… her journey makes it clear that in order to be free of our trauma… we have to face it head on and confront it and resolve it and we see the bare beginnings of that from Kirby here. Since she does indeed use the story and the discovery of other victims to confront the past and dig deep into who is behind this and minute by minute… we see a different Kirby emerge from the shadows she’s surrounded herself with. One that is determined and hopeful, and focused and ready to bring a monster to justice and look him in the eyes to inform him that she’s won, and he will never have power over her or anyone else again. 

Which makes for some incredibly powerful moments. The kind that speaks once again to how talented an actor Elisabeth Moss is since she plays Kirby and sells the anguish and the pain and the desire to beat it with a realism that draws you in and compels you to root for Kirby to accomplish her goals and well, all of these elements make this… a stunning series premiere. One that tackles topics and moments that no other show is even remotely attempting to touch right now, and it deserves our attention and our awe for doing so. Because this is a powerful and moving story, one that finally puts trauma and its impact and its symptoms in the spotlight so we can finally have a quality conversation about it and how to support those that hurt from it. Plus, it isn’t a bad thing, that this discussion is wrapped within an engaging plot, one that demands our attention… so we can see Harper be brought to justice for the horrible crimes he’s committed and truly, it will be amazing to see where this bold and brave story is going to take us in the days and weeks to come. Until next time.

To learn more about the creation of ‘Shining Girls’, sure to check out our interviews with Showrunner Silka Luisa and Director Michelle MacLaren.

Please enjoy a sneak peek of the series premiere of ‘Shining Girls, which will air on Apple TV+ on April 29, 2022.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the season finale of ‘That Dirty Black Bag’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
​
Over the course of the past few weeks, we’ve talked at length about how the AMC+ series, That Dirty Black Bag has managed to more or less reinvent the Spaghetti Western. A feat it has made possible, by taking the time to offer up a no holds barred look at the wild west, and how violent and terrifying a time that was during American History and how difficult life was back then. But while that has led to some supremely refreshing and original stories, the kind that also allowed for us to be privy to some stunning moments along the way… it is definitely safe to say that the looming showdown between Marco and Red Bill and Bronson that was set up last week… has left us wondering if the series would be able to maintain such originality.
​
After all, there are some aspects of the spaghetti western that are almost unavoidable from a cliché standpoint, and the final showdown is one of them. Since you always have the villain and the hero square off an in an epic and costly gunfight that costs the protagonist more than they were willing to pay. But believe it or not, this series figured out a way to once again shake things up and offer a finale that was original and fascinating in nature, and ‘Chapter Eight: The Great Duel’ accomplished that… by offering up different kinds of showdowns in this tale. For instance, this is a story that finally saw Steve and Thompson square off over Steve’s land. Because Thompson went all out to get his hands on it and the gold that it harbored and that led to a harrowing back and forth inside Steve’s home. Where he was so afraid for his family’s life… he signed over his land.

Once he did, he took Thompson over to the mine and showed him the incredibly rich ore that lay within its structure. A move that showed Steve, just how little, people or anything else mattered to Thompson. It was just about gold for him and nothing more and the joy he expressed over finally having the motherlode and the disregard he had for human life in getting his hands on it… allowed for something to snap within Steve. In fact, all he saw was red over Thompson’s behavior and that in turn, motivated him to cave his rival’s skull in with a rock filled with gold. Giving rise to a brutal and swift, and unique, showdown between these two men. One that Steve’s wife believed was justified through and through, but his son… well he was stunned at this and ran into the desert out of shock… and that… would tie into the other important and unique showdown in this tale.

For while Steve was dealing with that mess, Marco and Red Bill were making their way back to the rendezvous to deal with the last of Bronson’s thugs. A move that brought about a bloody end to Bronson’s gang, and some wounds for Bill and McCoy and it also led to the great duel in question. Because in the midst of the first gunfight, Red Bill came to learn that McCoy was there the night his mother died and since he vowed revenge against all who caused her harm… he was forced to break the alliance and turn upon McCoy. That brought about an ugly wound for Bill and the end of the line for McCoy and had it not been for Steve and his son, there was a fair chance that Red Bill’s vendetta would have ended right there. But he survived and he healed and that was a brilliant way in which to bring this season to a close.

Because it truly surprised us through and through, by making the grand fight in question be between unexpected agents. For we thought Bronson and Bill would duke it out instead, but alas… that wasn’t the case and oddly enough, Red Bill’s decision to clean house here, set the stage for a better battle with Bronson down the line. For he found Marco’s body and was shattered over the reality that his brother was gone, and now both men have taken something from one another and there are juicy stakes at play for both of them and well… that should bring about an epic second season of this series and hopefully we get that. To see Bronson and Bill play a deadly and intense cat and mouse game, and to see where this Order of the Eye story goes, and most important of all… to enjoy more of the most original and refreshing Spaghetti Western to hit the airwaves in years.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Six of ‘Reacher’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
​
There is no moment more enjoyable, in a story that is mired in mystery, then when the truth begins to come to light. Because that moment, is in essence… the grand reward for the viewer or reader. Where all of their questions are answered and the plot begins to kick into overdrive to bring everything together and well… that’s top of mind today, simply because that’s precisely what fans received in the next episode of Reacher on Prime Video. For ‘Papier’ is a story that took the time to explore backstories and origins of good and evil and most important of all, it truly made clear what Kliner’s operation was all about and all of this was set in motion, courtesy of an emergency stakeout. 
​
Because following Kliner’s death, Finlay was quickly sidelined by Chief/Mayor Teale. Since word got out that Finlay and Reacher stopped by Kliner’s office and stirred things up a bit and that… brought forth the stakeout in question. Because Reacher was convinced that a change in leadership at the plant, could bring about mistakes and trouble and who better to help keep watch than a sidelined cop? And while they watched the plant, Finlay finally opened up to Reacher and explained what made him so hardened and eager to embrace small town life. In that, his beloved wife died and being around landmarks that reminded him of her, was too much. So, he made his escape here and decided to basically pay a penance for not being able to save her from a terminal illness. A move that Reacher called dumb, because he has no chill… but it was nice to finally learn about Finlay and see he and Reacher get along at last and it’s a good thing this happened then and there. Since the two had to head out on the road to Tennessee, to trail one of Kliner’s trucks.

While the duo dealt with that, we were able to catch up with Roscoe, who was handling her new duties as babysitter to the Hubble family in a fine manner… until that is, a couple of assassins showed up. Forcing Roscoe to put them down and hit the road with Charlie, and when they finally settled in and enjoyed a moment of quiet and safety, Charlie opened up about how she knew that Paul was involved in something shady and why she kept quiet about it. And it relates back to the fact, that her husband was basically trapped and blackmailed into helping the operation by Kliner and when Paul showed any signs of resistance to the plan, he was treated to a live crucifixion to ensure compliance. Which definitely helped us to understand why Charlie said nothing, since it was the only way to keep her family safe, and well, this sequence and the ending, definitely hammered home how Kliner operated and how he managed to get a guy like Paul into the fold when he clearly had no desire to do so, and this too… was a nice reveal. 

But it did pale in comparison to that aforementioned finale sequence. Which saw Reacher fly to New York City to speak with a Professor Mary Castillo post haste, at a police station no less. For while he was in Tennessee with Finlay, he came to learn that this organization was bringing down more people that Joe talked to and getting her on the phone and arranging this meeting in a safe space no less, saved her life and allowed for the hard truth to come to light about Joe’s mission. In that, Joe did such a fine job of shutting down counterfeiting in the United States by controlling the paper supply critical to making it happen… that he had to head down Margrave way when perfect bills with the perfect paper showed up again. Meaning that Margrave is indeed… the source of this mess after all, and the true boss of this operation is likely down there as well.

Which means, a grand showdown and the last of the answers we seek await us back there and now that Reacher has the answers he needs, we are likely heading back south for the final two episodes of season one to watch Reacher bring forth justice for Joe and so many at last. But while we wait to dig into those particular tales, we can definitely bask in the wonder of a story that finally answered so many of our questions and grew the characters like never before and that’s a wonderful thing. Since it means the story is now free and clear to just let loose and let everything come together in a powerful and epic manner and well, that means it is time to swing back online and tear through the next two episodes, post haste. Until next time.

Something that is genuinely fascinating about stories that explore someone’s second act in life, is that so many of them are… cliché in nature. Because when you settle in to watch or read a story in this vein, you pretty much have an idea of what it is going to be about. In that, it will revolve around a person that has either suffered great loss or great heartbreak, and they realize that this tragedy is their wakeup call to live life to the fullest and enjoy every single moment that comes their way. Which in turn motivates them to drop everything and move to their dream location and live it up, and most likely, they’ll immediately find love in their new home and find peace and that’s the end of the journey. One that is painfully predictable and quite frankly, isn’t indicative of what the second act looks like at all.

Because our reasons for wanting to make changes in our lives, vary from person to person. For some… it is about chasing a dream that they gave up on long ago and for others… it is about simply living life and taking part in experiences that they have always wanted to enjoy. Or in the case of the new Acorn TV series, Signora Volpe, we become eager to make a change when we realize the path, we’ve walked… isn’t quite as fulfilling as we once thought it was. An exploration that this show accomplishes by introducing us to an MI6 operative named Sylvia Fox… who comes to realize that spy work isn’t quite giving her what she needs anymore and that motivates her to take a little time away from the spy business and spend time with her family in Italy for her niece’s wedding. 

Which is where this story truly begins to shine. For once Sylvia arrives in Italy, she is able to really reflect upon her life and her career and what she has sacrificed in the name of it and the greater good of the world and that leads to some powerful moments. The kind that audiences can relate to since Sylvia ponders upon a lot of the concerns we have about our lives in this type of momentary crisis and that brings about an intimate character study. One that really challenges Sylvia like never before and the viewer for that matter as well. Since it takes us to task and asks us if we’ve really looked at our lives in an objective manner as Sylvia has and well, this part of the journey, really does offer up a game-changing and honest examination of what the second act looks like and why we choose to make that change.

But of course, one cannot simply expect a spy to just… abandon a lifetime of training and surrender their lives to everyday whims, and since Sylvia cannot just leave it all behind… the audience is treated to quite the twist in this story. One that involves Sylvia’s desire to use her skill set to investigate people and crimes that appear to be impossible to solve or unique in nature, and that most certainly keeps the story interesting and fresh and original. Since Sylvia thrives in helping people in her second act and well… that makes this one of the most unique ‘starting over’ stories to ever hit the market and while those two elements alone could have carried this series from beginning to end… it still has more wonders to offer its audience.

In that, it’s grand and sweeping in its adventures and takes the time to show off the beauty of Italy through and through. Not to mention, it knows how to have a little fun and it also features heartwarming and quirky moments and of course… it features some magnificent acting. For Emilia Fox is perfectly cast as Sylvia and her vast skill set as an actor and the earnest manner in which she approaches this role, gives Sylvia incredible depth and realism and she is counterbalanced nicely by Jamie Bamber, who plays Sylvia’s ex-husband Adam, and the rest of cast, which includes veterans Giovanni Cirfiera and Tara Fitzgerald, and really… all these elements, make this series a must see.

Because it really is original and refreshing and if our spoiler-free preview here has done enough to pique your interest… then good news, you don’t have to wait all that much longer to enjoy this series. For Signora Volpe makes its debut on Acorn TV on Monday, May 1, 2022, and we certainly hope you check it out and that you check back with us for more pre-release coverage as well. Since we have interviews with Jamie Bamber and Emilia Fox to share with all of you before this stunningly magnificent series hits the airwaves come next Monday.

As an added bonus, here is the trailer for the show and a sneak peek clip!

These days whenever we tune in to enjoy our favorite television shows, we are fully aware of the fact that whatever episode we are enjoying, is going to make an attempt to teach us… something. Simply because in this era of peak television, lessons and commentary about our world go hand in hand with storytelling and that is definitely enhancing our viewing experience for certain. Since it is adding incredible depth to a medium that was once considered to be fluff. But what’s fascinating about this change to how we view and enjoy television, is that sometimes you can tell that not everyone is comfortable with it just yet behind the scenes, as evidenced by how the lesson might be a touch more topical or it is handled in a semi-serious manner, and it makes sense as to why.

Because the bare beginnings of something this fresh, would indeed motivate creatives to take it slow and easy, out of the worry that too many concepts and themes might overload an audience or turn them off. When in reality, the lack of push back on such matters in the first place, speaks to how little a problem the audience has with being tasked with deeper storytelling. And slowly but surely, we are starting to see shows sneak in more themes and braver explorations in an effort to give the audience what they really want, and one such series that has managed to master this already… is Queens of Mystery on Acorn TV. For writer/creator Julian Unthank tends to inject more than one lesson/concept into the mysteries that the Stone family works to solve and for proof, then look no further than the show’s season one finale.

For ‘Smoke & Mirrors, Final Chapter’ is a story that changes gears and uses the hunt for the killer to explore a vastly unique concept. One revolving around how the power of ego and our desire to be seen can drive us to do horrible things. Which is indeed a far cry from where this story started out. Since the first chapter in this tale, focused heavily on the power of the past and how easily it can influence our future. But that just speaks to the wonder of this series and the script that Julian wrote, and this episode accomplished this incredible feat… by revealing the true identity of the killer of Sir Lawrence Shaw and Quentin Glover to be… Dame Blanche Chastain. 

Whom decided to take the lives of these men, because she was furious at being an understudy in a production run by her ex-husband no less. For she firmly believed she had plenty in the tank left as an actor and could have made the show infinitely better in the leading lady role. But alas, she was sidelined and marginalized, and with her pride and ego in tatters, she initially attempted to bring down Amy with Quentin’s help. But instead, Sir Lawrence stepped into the firing line and paid the price and of course, with so much knowledge in hand, Quentin had to go too. All because Blanche needed the spotlight and needed value since she had none internally and that is a powerful and fascinating way to end the first season of this series.

In large part, because that kind of shift in tone in the back half of a story is revolutionary for certain and puts forth the blueprint for other shows to follow. But also, because, it hammered home the lesson courtesy of a magnificent ending. One that gave Blanche what she wanted, whilst dooming her at the same time… giving her a pyrrhic victory of sorts and bringing this season to a close in a satisfying and bittersweet manner. Because we’ve reached the end of the journey for the time being, and all we can do now… is wait patiently for news of a season three and this writer hopes we get that. Because this really is quite the unique and wonderful show and we need more of these quirky and intelligent adventures, ones complete with homages to the classics, since Blade Runner clearly influenced the play in this tale. But while we wait for that good news, at least we can take solace in the fact… that we can revisit all of these cases in the meantime, and all of the delightful moments they send our way.