Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 203 & 204 of ‘Single Drunk Female’. To revisit the Season Two Premiere, click here.
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When we last settled in to discuss the brilliant Freeform series, Single Drunk Female, we talked at length about the incredible new tone the show was taking on for its second season. Since the premiere established that this year’s journey was going to be about the aftermath of alcoholism, and what the next steps look like after sobriety has been chosen by a person that used to avoid it. Which involved navigating the stresses of everyday life for Sam, all while she continued to work hard upon on shedding the bad habits that plunged her into alcohol related behavior time and time again in days gone by. 
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But of course, since life doesn’t end when people are in recovery, other challenges await those working to heal and that’s precisely what this week’s episode block took the time to explore. For ‘Normie’ and ‘4th Step’ are a pair of stories that opted to explore… how tough it can be for a recovering addict to reintegrate into all the moments we take for granted, and how hard it can be for others to understand what the unique healing process for addiction looks like, and the trouble that misunderstanding can cause. Which brought forth two powerful tales, the first of which… explored what it is like to dip back into the dating pool when starting over in life again and spoiler alert… it can be quite difficult and uncomfortable to say the least. 

For Sam went out with her former boss in this story, and while they had a great time and were vibing on the date, the stuff that we take for granted came into play. For Alex was eager to enjoy some fine wine on their date, and that… put Sam in an awkward place for obvious reasons. Because she simply didn’t know how to express to someone new in her life, that she was sober. For she knew full well how people frown upon that, and that could have jeopardized this budding relationship. But eventually she realized that dodging the truth was unhealthy and he was either going to accept her for her or not, and that prompted her to offer the truth and enjoy a fine response. But what mattered more is that this sequence really did make it clear that a new life in sobriety has its pratfalls when the world doesn’t respect such matters all that much, and that can be tough to navigate. 

As for the second theme present in these two episodes, well that was handled by Carol. Because one fine night, she felt the need to invade her daughter’s private space and read a journal she wrote. One that was filled to the brim with very raw and angry thoughts about the people in Sam’s life. Of course… Carol didn’t care about those other passages, just the ones concerning her, and how they supposedly painted her as a monster mother of sorts, one composed of neuroses and fury. Which of course… sent her into a dark place that not even Bob could talk her out of, and that led to a powerhouse confrontation within the household when she went after Sam for what was written and well… Sam’s response was quite powerful.
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In that, it wasn’t about disparaging anyone, it was part of the 4th Step of the 12 Step Program. Wherein inventory of one’s feeling needed to be purged onto paper to help heal. But since Carol was in a vastly different place mentally and emotionally, she saw this an attack and treated it as such by spitting vitriol at her daughter and by re-opening old wounds. Which left Sam beside herself and in a dark and unsafe place. Simply because… it was hard to reconcile the truth about her relationship with her mother. In that, it wasn’t healthy and that she and her mother were on two different paths. Wherein Sam wanted to heal, and Carol wanted life to go on as usual, and the potential for this to spill over, prompted Sam to move out and move in with Brit. To stay safe and to prepare to continue to move forward, regardless of the outcome.

All of which truly made it clear that the days after recovery are hard, and filled with stunning challenges few of us can fathom. But this is a series that doesn’t shy away from the hard realities of recovery, both good and bad, and it deserves a round of applause for giving us that honesty here and for changing the delicate dynamic of the Fink household. And now that Sam has left the nest for all the right reasons, and Bob has even taken the time to back her up, it will be interesting to see where Carol and Sam go from here, and it will be equally as fascinating, to learn more incredible lessons from a series that truly wants to educate us on every aspect of recovery, as season two of this timely and powerful series, continues along. Until next time.        

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Season One Finale of ‘The Ark’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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It is definitely quite incredible that the SYFY series, The Ark, recently answered one of its most burning questions in the simplest manner possible… through common sense. For this series has pondered deeply upon whether or not we are worth saving and if by chance we can find a way forward, and through some fine and powerful moments that parallel our modern world, it eventually made it clear that yes, we are, provided of course we find a way to drop the nonsense and the vitriol and work together toward common causes. Which is a comforting answer for certain, one that eventually brought forth an even more critical question regarding this commentary. Such as… what it will take to drop the nonsense so we can move forward.
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Which is… a powerful question to ask because one would think that to do so would require incredible work on our part. The kind that might be generational in nature. Or perhaps… the answer is far simpler than we know. Perhaps… the key to enacting change and finding unity starts with some acts of kindness. Ones that don’t require repayment nor would they come with conditions. Just… good old-fashioned kindness, as evidenced by what happened in the season one finale of the show. For ‘Everybody Wins’ saw Doctor Kabir and Alicia figure out how to make the cure work, and by having the end to Klampkins in hand, Captain Garnet saw an opportunity to offer up pure kindness. For she could just give the cure to Evelyn Maddox and use that to show her a better way forward, together, and well… her gambit paid off in spades.

For Maddox was quite shocked and confused by this act, but she accepted it and started to ponder upon the real possibility that all of this infighting was silly and wasteful and that all should work together. Which was quite the powerful epiphany to see take place, and while that makes it sound as though an immediate happy ending came into play because of that… that simply was not the case. Because this story made it clear that while this could work, it would not be without its struggles. For some, would not accept it right away and would need more convincing, as evidenced by Kelly’s desire to enact revenge against Angus and by William Trust’s disgusting act here. Wherein he tried to crash Ark Fifteen and kill half of the human race in the process out of a need for rich guy justice. 

But the fact that people stood up to Kelly and that a successful plan was executed to save Ark Fifteen following Trust’s wicked reveal of his plans for Maddox and her crew, spoke volumes to how good deeds and true kindness can start a movement. One that inspires, one that motivates, as evidenced by how everyone survived the disastrous surprise that Proxima B revealed at the end of this tale, courtesy of kindness being paid in full on Maddox’s part and that truly brought hope to this tale. For if Evelyn Maddox can find it in her heart to do the right thing and offer help and salvation to others after exuding cruelty… then there is indeed hope for the human race after all. A hope that we can express in our own world if by chance… we offer up a little more kindness right now in these troubling times. 

Which makes this… quite the powerful season finale. One that really did a fine job of bringing everything together. For all the thematic concepts came together beautifully here, and the characters completed their respective arcs this season in a satisfying and beautiful manner. But above all, it set the stage for a different battle ahead. One that will involve finding a new home instead of fighting each other, and that should lead to some powerful storytelling. The kind that will be equally uplifting as this tale since it would show us at our finest and show us what wonders we could accomplish by working together. And that is going to make for a tough wait for season two, since we are all eager to see humanity enter this bold new chapter in its fight for survival. Until next year.    

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 306 of ‘Ted Lasso’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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It is definitely safe to say that season three of Ted Lasso on Apple TV+, has been quite the fascinating ride. For it has taken the time to explore a great deal of unique topics regarding the human condition. Specifically, as it pertains to when we find the success we crave in life. For season three has made it clear that success is not a cure all to our problems, nor are we on easy street when we find it. If anything, those early days at the top can breed grave insecurity and imposter syndrome, and a sense of struggle and a grand worry that failure will arrive and rob us of what we crave. Which has brought forth an intimate season of storytelling, one that has offered up some fascinating observations on how to combat those kinds of concerns as they arrive. 
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Such as coming to understand that self-work and self-care don’t end when we find success and are necessary to maintaining it, so our troubles aren’t a distraction, as is continuing to put in the work. So that we don’t lose our grip on what we gave so much to obtain. But even that… is not enough to keep things rolling. For other factors can come into play, as evidenced by this week’s episode of the show. For ‘Sunflowers’ is a story that saw the team lose a friendly exhibition match in Amsterdam, despite surging with strength after that speech that Ted gave last week, and well… that made it clear the team was in an outright rut and unable to shatter it. And that they weren’t playing together as a unit anymore, and fractured, and that allowed for this story to deeply explore… how we break the monotony that life sends our way, to help us maintain our success.

An exploration it brought forth by way of a bevy of storylines. One of which involved the team itself as they tried desperately to come together and failed often because of that divide. But through Isaac’s push to make sure that a team decision dictated the course of what was to come on a night that Ted lifted curfew, the team found its way. Making it clear that sometimes… we need an edict and direction to break that monotony and speaking of the team… well we would be foolish to not discuss the powerful storyline involving Colin. Since he finally made peace with his sexual identity in this tale, with the help of Trent Crimm. Who we learned was out and struggled with his own identity in years prior and he encouraged Colin to embrace himself and be proud of himself and that… is just an important message to have out there, period, and that can absolutely heal a great deal of things for us in life.

In fact, a lot of the explorations here were indeed quite personal in nature, including the other ones involving the central theme. For instance, Roy and Jamie’s story in this tale made it clear that sometimes… the only way to break up a rut is to look at the journey we’ve been upon and reflect upon what brought us to this moment so we can appreciate the gravity of the moment and embrace its wonder. Which was expressed via some wonderfully hilarious moments, such as having Jamie teach Roy how to ride a bike, and well… the story certainly didn’t stop its explorations there. Since Higgins’ taught us that just reconnecting with what brings us joy can help, and Rebecca’s journey taught us that now and again… we just need to embrace the moment and see where it takes us to find the focus, we so desire. 
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Of course, Ted also found himself searching in this story as well. Because he simply couldn’t find the fire anymore and really found himself in the depths of a rut as a coach. But through a psychedelic placebo, he found himself wandering the streets of Amsterdam, and explored its wares and offerings and even a call back to home via an American-themed restaurant and in doing so… by losing himself to the moment and just forgetting about all of his troubles for just a little while… he found what he needed. For he realized that now was the time to shake things up and bring forth an old-school soccer concept to the team to unify them and push them out of their rut on the pitch. Teaching all of us that sometimes, the only way forward is to lose ourselves briefly, so we can objectively look at our situation and see the good and see the opportunities created by monotony and correct them.

All of which made for a supremely unique episode when all is said and done. One where soccer took the backburner to really give these characters the healing moment they needed and to help them find the focus they desperately desire. Oh, and it doesn’t hurt that this evening out introduced us to Coach Beard’s meta alter-ego, Piggy Stardust. But that aside, this really was something special. For this story informed us once again that the characters drive this story, and their relatable experiences will always be the focus. So, we can learn alongside them and grow with them and further immerse ourselves in this wild journey that reflects the chaotic nature of life, and now that everyone has learned a new lesson in how to maintain success, it will be interesting to see how they apply them when they return home and get back to work. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Season Three Finale of ‘The Mandalorian’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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There are, a great many reasons to love the Disney+ series, The Mandalorian. Such as the fact, that it is indeed fresh Star Wars. The kind that explores a segment of the galaxy’s history that was for a very long time… unknown to us. For the time between Return of the Jedi and The Force Awakens was a true blank slate, and it is wonderful to see it begin to flesh out here. Plus, this series features fascinating stories that are now pondering upon the nature and the role of government after dark times, and what breeds dissent in civilized society, adding depth to this story, while providing commentary on our world. But above all, what makes this series so great, is that never loses sight of the franchise’s roots… which involves incredible action and adventure. 
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For that is a staple of this franchise that pulls us in time and time again and for the season three finale, the series leaned hard into just that and rightfully so. After all, the last chapter ended with Moff Gideon returning to the fold to sow chaos and sully the memory of Mandalore by revealing that his base of operations was buried deep within the planet’s scarred surface. Plus, he kidnapped Din Djarin and ended Paz Visla, setting the stage for a true showdown for the ages and well, ‘Chapter 24: The Return’, absolutely delivered regarding that. Since this episode saw the good people of Mandalore stand tall and fight once they had a moment to catch their breath. 

Which allowed for us to watch a group of divided people come together to fight a great evil. But while it was amazing to watch the Armorer crack heads with her mighty hammer, it was the final showdown between Din, Bo-Katan, and Gideon that made this episode so worthwhile. For Din did escape and he was able to fight the wily Moff with Bo-Katan at his side and that brought forth a satisfying sequence of events. One that allowed for the duo to teach this twisted man quite the lesson in humility and distract him long enough to put him in harm’s way. For Axe Wolves used the Mandalorian battle cruiser as the ultimate weapon. For he was able to drop it upon the base, ending the reign of Moff Gidon at last, and thanks to little Grogu, our heroes were saved when the flames from that act came calling.

But while that action sequence alone could have carried this episode from beginning to end, it had plenty more to offer us. For this is a story that knows how important the intimate moments are as well and that is why it completed its story for the season by having the Great Forge re-fired, so that Mandalore could once again be made whole and so its people could rebuild and so… a new chapter could begin. Because the fight that Grogu put up, informed Din that he was ready to be more in this life, and that is why he adopted him as his own and moved him into an apprenticeship. So, he could learn the Way and eventually speak the Creed and that meant, leaving home and spending time amongst the stars, to teach this little one properly. 

Which is why they now have a home on Nevarro and why… Din made nice with the New Republic; courtesy of an off-the-books deal with Captain Carson Teva. So, he could earn his keep and teach Grogu honorable acts and just like that… this grand and sweeping chapter has come to a close and well… that was indeed a wonderful way to bring this chapter of the story to an end. Because it is just beautiful and inspiring to see Din Djarin enjoy redemption at last, and the same goes for the people of Mandalore who have suffered for a long, long time, and well, now that this chapter has come to an end, it will be interesting to see what new adventures await Din Djarin and his apprentice… his son… in the next one. Until next time.

Something that is genuinely fascinating about this era of peak television, is that it has allowed for some shows to handle their business on their own terms. Such as how long the season is going to be, and how long a time frame will exist between seasons and… when they should end. Simply because quality shows have earned that right and audiences know the wait will be worth it, and that all good things must come to an end and well, it just so happens that we are nearing the end of a stellar series that absolutely earned that kind of privilege.
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For the wildly popular crime drama, Happy Valley, will kick off its third and final season on May 22. One that will indeed allow for this series to wrap up on its own terms via an epic final case for Sergeant Catherine Cawood, and well… to prepare us for the grand finale, Acorn TV, AMC+, and BBC America let it be known they will broadcast this final season across their respective platforms, and they also released a trailer and some details on season three. To give us a sample of what this final season, will look like, and without further ado, here is that trailer and those details for you to enjoy, courtesy of AMC Networks.

‘Acorn TV, AMC+ and BBC AMERICA debuted today, the highly anticipated trailer for the third and final season of Sally Wainwright’s enthralling and critically praised drama, Happy Valley, ahead of its premiere on Monday, May 22. Season 3 of the multi-BAFTA Award-winning series will be available exclusively across all three networks, with a new episode debuting weekly.
 
In the epic and unmissable final season, Sergeant Catherine Cawood (Sarah Lancashire, Julia, Last Tango in Halifax) discovers the remains of a gangland murder victim, sparking a chain of events that unwittingly leads her straight back to murderer and rapist Tommy Lee Royce (James Norton, McMafia, Little Women). Catherine’s grandson Ryan (Rhys Connah, The Runaways) is now sixteen and has ideas of his own about what kind of relationship he wants to have with Tommy, the man Catherine still refuses to acknowledge as his father. Still battling the seemingly never-ending problem of drugs in the valley and those who supply them, Catherine is on the cusp of retirement. Will she solve this final case?
 
The six-episode season also sees Siobhan Finneran (Downton Abbey) returning to her iconic role as Clare Cartwright, the devoted sister of Catherine.
 
Happy Valley Season 3 Premiere Schedule
Acorn TV: Season 3 Premieres Monday, May 22
AMC+: Season 3 Premieres Monday, May 22
BBC America: Season 3 Premieres Monday, May 22 at 10pm ET/PT
 
How to Catch Up on Seasons 1 and 2
Acorn TV: Season 1 and Season 2 available to binge now.
AMC+: Season 1 and Season 2 available to binge now.

BBC AMERICA: Catch a Season 1 marathon Monday, May 8 through Wednesday, May 10 from 11pm ET/PT, airing two episodes a night back-to-back. Season 2 will air on Monday, May 15 through Wednesday, May 17 from 11pm ET/PT, again, airing two episodes a night back-to-back.
 
Happy Valley Season 3 is a Lookout Point production for the BBC, co-produced with AMC Networks. The seriesis written and created by Sally Wainwright (Gentleman Jack). Episodes in Season 3 are directed by Sally Wainwright and Patrick Harkins (Guilt) and Fergus O'Brien (Gentleman Jack) with Jessica Taylor serving as producer. Executive producers are Sally Wainwright and Sarah Lancashire, with Faith Penhale and Will Johnston for Lookout Point, Ben Irving and Rebecca Ferguson for the BBC. BBC Studios, who wholly own Lookout Point, is handling the distribution of the series.
 
EPISODE DESCRIPTIONS 
 
Episode 301 – Streams Monday, May 22 on Acorn TV and AMC+; BBC AMERICA airs at 10pm ET/PT
When Catherine discovers the remains of a murder victim, it bizarrely leads her straight back to Tommy Lee Royce.
 
Episode 302 – Streams Monday, May 29 on Acorn TV and AMC+; BBC AMERICA airs at 10pm ET/PT
Catherine learns of a painful betrayal close to home. Faisal comes under increasing pressure from all sides. 
 
Episode 303 – Streams Monday, June 5 on Acorn TV and AMC+; BBC AMERICA airs at 10pm ET/PT
Catherine confronts Clare and presents Ryan with an ultimatum. Faisal and Joanna hatch a plan that takes an unexpected turn.
 
Episode 304 – Streams Monday, June 12 on Acorn TV and AMC+; BBC AMERICA airs at 10pm ET/PT
As Tommy’s big day approaches, Catherine becomes suspicious, and Ryan finds a new way to defy her.
 
Episode 305 – Streams Monday, June 19 on Acorn TV and AMC+; BBC AMERICA airs at 10pm ET/PT
Catherine races to protect her family. A murder investigation begins.
 
Episode 306 – Streams Monday, June 26 on Acorn TV and AMC+; BBC AMERICA airs at 10pm ET/PT
On Catherine’s final shift, scores are settled for good and Ryan faces a moral dilemma.’

It is definitely the goal of every creative individual out there… to create a work of art that is timeless in nature. Where people often refer to it and/or think upon it fondly, and where generations of people celebrate it as well. For that means they created something that genuinely resonated with the essence of humanity and one such artist that pulled off such a feat was writer, Arnold Lobel. For the four-part book series he wrote, entitled, Frog and Toad, remains an important icon in literature today because of its powerful messaging on the meaning of friendship and how to create a healthy one. And ever since the first book in this series was released in 1970, parents and everyday people refer to this book often to teach and/or learn that lesson when in need of a better understanding of friendship.
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In fact, its message and lessons are so powerful and so wonderful, that a new generation is about to experience them through a new format come next week. For April 28 will see the premiere of a new animated series adapted from the books. One that shares the namesake of the original tale, and it will air on a streaming network that prizes and cherishes top-tier storytelling and quality family entertainment, Apple TV+. And to prepare everyone for the majesty of this new series, Apple TV+ was kind enough today to release a trailer for the show. One that makes it clear that this iteration of the story will indeed capture the essence of what Arnold wrote all those years ago and help this timeless story continue to thrive as people show it to their children, or reminiscence about what the story means to them, and well, with that in mind… here is that incredible trailer for you to enjoy, and some details regarding the show, courtesy of Apple TV+.

'Apple TV+ today released the trailer for “Frog and Toad,” the highly anticipated animated kids and family series based on the beloved Caldecott and Newbery Honor-winning four-book series by Arnold Lobel, premiering on Friday, April 28. 
 
Frog is a frog. Toad is a toad. They have a lot in common… but they are also very different. Frog and Toad are best friends who know that the true secret to friendship is not only enjoying the things you have in common, but embracing the things that make you different. Since our differences are what makes us special, Frog and Toad celebrate what makes them unique! 
 
The talented voice cast includes Academy Award winner Nat Faxon ("Our Flag Means Death," "The Connors") and Emmy Award nominee Kevin Michael Richardson ("The Simpsons," "Family Guy") as Frog and Toad, as well as appearances by Ron Funches ("Trolls"), Fortune Feimster ("Good Fortune," “Kenan”), Cole Escola ("At Home with Amy Sedaris"), Aparna Nancherla ("The Great North"), John Hodgman ("Up Here"), Yvette Nicole Brown ("Disenchanted," “Act Your Age”), Stephen Tobolowsky ("The Goldbergs"), Emmy Award nominee Tom Kenny ("SpongeBob SquarePants"), Selene Luna ("Coco"), Emmy Award nominee Margaret Cho (“Fire Island”) and Betsy Sodaro ("Duncanville"). 
 
“Frog and Toad” is based on the beloved Caldecott and Newbery Honor-winning four-book series by Arnold Lobel published by HarperCollins Children’s Books. Emmy Award winner Rob Hoegee ("Stillwater," "Niko & the Sword of Light") serves as showrunner for the series and Emmy Award winning studio Titmouse (“Big Mouth,” “Star Trek: Lower Decks,” “The Legend of Vox Machina”) produces the animation. Hoegee executive produces alongside Adrianne Lobel, Adam Lobel and Titmouse’s Chris Prynoski (“The Legend of Vox Machina”), Shannon Prynoski (“Fairfax”), Antonio Canobbio (“Arlo the Alligator Boy”), and Ben Kalina (“Big Mouth”). 
 
The award-winning slate of original series and films for kids and families on Apple TV+ includes this year’s Academy Award and BAFTA Award-winning animated short film “The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse”; star-studded animated adventure film “Luck” from Apple Original Films and Skydance Animation; and, BAFTA Award-winning and Academy Award-nominated animated film “Wolfwalkers.”
 
“Frog and Toad” will premiere alongside all-ages offerings now streaming globally on Apple TV+, including the BAFTA Award and Humanitas Prize-winning “El Deafo,” BAFTA Award-winning “Lovely Little Farm,” “Duck & Goose,” GLAAD Media Award nominated “Pinecone & Pony,” Emmy Award-winning “Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock” and “Harriet the Spy” from The Jim Henson Company, Peabody and Emmy Award-winning series “Stillwater,” “Helpsters” from Sesame Workshop, “Wolfboy and the Everything Factory” from Joseph Gordon-Levitt, HITRECORD and Bento Box Entertainment, “Sago Mini Friends,” Emmy Award-nominated “Hello, Jack! The Kindness Show” from Jack McBrayer and Angela C. Santomero, Emmy Award nominee “Snoopy in Space,” “The Snoopy Show” and “Get Rolling with Otis.” Live-action offerings include Bonnie Hunt’s DGA and WGA Award nominated “Amber Brown,” DGA Award winner "Best Foot Forward," “Surfside Girls,” WGA Award winner “Life By Ella,” Emmy Award-winning “Ghostwriter” from Sesame Workshop, and “Puppy Place.” 
 
Also included are specials from Peanuts and WildBrain including Emmy Award nominee “It’s the Small Things, Charlie Brown,” “Lucy’s School,” Humanitas and Emmy Award nominee “To Mom (and Dad), With Love,” Emmy Award-winning “Who Are You, Charlie Brown?” and “For Auld Lang Syne,” and “Here We Are: Notes for Living on Planet Earth,” the Emmy Award-winning television event based on the New York Times best-selling book and TIME Best Book of the Year by Oliver Jeffers.
 
Apple TV+ offers premium, compelling drama and comedy series, feature films, groundbreaking documentaries, and kids and family entertainment, and is available to watch across all your favorite screens. After its launch on November 1, 2019, Apple TV+ became the first all-original streaming service to launch around the world, and has premiered more original hits and received more award recognitions faster than any other streaming service in its debut. To date, Apple Original films, documentaries, and series have earned 348 wins and 1,421 award nominations and counting, including multi-Emmy Award-winning comedy “Ted Lasso” and historic Oscar Best Picture winner “CODA.”
 
Apple TV+ is available on the Apple TV app in over 100 countries and regions, on over 1 billion screens, including iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Mac, popular smart TVs from Samsung, LG, Sony, VIZIO, TCL, and others, Roku and Amazon Fire TV devices, Chromecast with Google TV, PlayStation and Xbox gaming consoles, and at tv.apple.com, for $6.99 per month with a seven-day free trial. For a limited time, customers who purchase and activate a new iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Mac, or iPod touch can enjoy three months of Apple TV+ for free.* For more information, visit apple.com/tvpr and see the full list of supported devices.'

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Season Two Finale of ‘American Auto’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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Sometimes in life, we are presented with quite the unique opportunity from a career standpoint. Wherein we can take on a job that is out of our normal wheelhouse. One that will be a great opportunity but could present us with a learning curve and great challenges. For we might not have the knowledge necessary to be successful at it, but so many of us take that opportunity, regardless. Because a challenge such as that is a chance to grow, a chance to perhaps succeed at something new, we just have to be prepared for the difficult road ahead. Because we might fail at this, and it will indeed be a lonesome and painful ride since we have nothing familiar to gauge our success. 
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But all it takes during that tough adjustment period is one win to prove that we made the right choice, and that we can in fact do the new thing, and after spending the past two seasons dealing with a learning curve and those struggles… Katherine Hastings finally enjoyed her moment in the sun in the season two finale of American Auto on NBC. But not before going through more hell. Because ‘Judgement Day’ is a story that saw Katherine scrambling to get the stock price up. For it was indeed the big day that the title inferred, wherein the board would decide her fate and the fate of her team and well… a last-minute attempt to drum up positive PR for the Pika to stimulate some sales… went poorly.

In part because a local TV appearance was a disaster, one where Cyrus made it weird, and where Wesley felt the need to inform the viewers at home of the technical term for male genitalia on live television. But more so, because… some inclement typhoon related weather shut down the port of Shanghai, which in turn freaked out the markets and sent Payne stock tumbling. Which put the team in panic mode, wherein they tried to drum up all kinds of positive press to get the stock price moving. Such as staging a fake photo shoot, one where it seemed as though Warren Buffet was investing in Payne Motors, when it was in fact… just the janitor. Plus, both Katherine and Wesley visited a red-hot local stock analyst, named John, in the hospital after his appendectomy, to try and get him to flip his negative view of the company to move that stock up.

Oddly enough, that visit from Wesley seemed to do the trick, only because he leaked that Katherine would be on the outs if the stock fell too low, and that prompted John to leak that news, sending the stock price to exactly where it was needed so everyone could keep their jobs. But that… wasn’t the win one might expect. Since it basically was a strong message that Katherine was terrible and the only way this company would find success would be without her. No instead, the moment that Katherine has been waiting for, the one that informed her she has been doing better than expected and has learned about this industry and grown into her role and created sustainable success for the company… came about at the very end of this finale. Wherein, quite the surprise came into play. 

In that, the grassroots measure to market the Pika, via social media and through a direct line purchase, was a success. In fact, hundreds of thousands of orders were placed and the internet was abuzz about the Pika and just like that… Katherine had the win she wanted. One that proved the challenge, and the strife was worth it and that she was the right CEO for Payne Motors and just like that… she reveled in vindication, and we even saw her strength renewed after a tough, up and down day and well… that’s a wondrous way to bring this chapter in the C-Suite’s story to an end, and the perfect way to set up the next one. Since now... Katherine will have the confidence to grow this business like never before and take it to new heights. Which is why this series needs a third season and beyond, quite frankly, so the characters can continue to grow, and we can go on that journey with them, whilst enjoying the quality laughs and whip smart satire that this magnificent series is known for. Until next time.     

There was a time, where sitting through an educational children’s television show in any capacity, was a boring experience and rightfully so. Simply because, the belief in that era of storytelling, was that children’s entertainment had to be a dry and detailed affair. Wherein the children in question, needed to truly learn from what they were about to see and presenting it in a fun manner, wouldn’t get the lesson across. Sure, there would be elements to make it feel akin to general children’s entertainment, but beyond talking animals and animation and perhaps a clown here or there… education was the focus, and it was taken seriously.
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But thankfully, shows such as Sesame Street and a desire from those who grew up watching the dryer stuff… brought forth change to the landscape of children’s entertainment. For everyone came to realize that learning can in fact, be a lot of fun and when education is handled in a dynamic and entertaining manner… children will absorb that information better. Which led to a new era for children’s entertainment, one that continues to evolve in the new century. For those involved with it have come to realize that if a show is carefully crafted to teach in a manner that feels organic and natural… the perfect educational story can come to life. 

One where the lesson just sinks in, and where the story promotes positive habits and features moments that are quizzical enough to elicit discussion in the home and it just so happens, that Apple TV+ is home to a series now, that accomplishes such feats, in Eva the Owlet. Courtesy of a plot that plunges us into the world of Treetopington. A thriving owl city where various owl families live in harmony, including Eva the Owlet and her loving family, and this series offers up a wondrous day-in-the-life experience with Eva and her family and her friends. Wherein she embarks on adventures that are relatable and adorable and teach children some powerful and quality lessons.

Such as the importance of approaching life with an open mind and being adaptable based upon the situation. A lesson that helps children understand the dynamic and fluid nature of the world, and the show often speaks deeply about the importance of communication, especially with oneself. So that one can learn how to express themselves properly and process their emotions as they grow. But how these lessons are expressed is what matters most. Because it is all done through the sheer structure of the show, since the plots allow for Eva and her friends to think on the fly and adapt and Eva journals regularly, which expresses the communication themed lessons, and one never notices this. For it is all so organic and natural. 

Which makes this, a perfect modern children’s entertainment show. One that teaches while it entertains and absolutely encourages children to talk about what they’ve seen, wherein mom and dad can reinforce the lesson at hand and help their little ones learn to journal and communicate just like Eva, and it is just wonderful to know that Apple TV+ is host to a show this intelligent and warm and fun, and the best news of all, is that families can enjoy the wonder of this series… right now. For all eight episodes are currently streaming on Apple TV+, and we certainly hope you give this magnificent series, and all the majesty it harbors, a look. Since it offers so much and reminds us that education can be so much more than dry lessons and somber moments.

If there is one word that can often be associated with stories and shows that explore mankind’s delicate relationship with faith, it would have to be… somber. Understandably so, for that matter. Because faith is as American as apple pie and to explore it, the universally unspoken rule, is that one must provide it with endless respect. The kind that speaks to the powerful journey that one walks when they work to discover faith and speaks to the majesty of faith and what it provides one’s soul with. But while it is wonderful to learn what faith can do for a person through these stories, they don’t paint a complete picture regarding faith, and that is quite problematic for certain. 
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Simply because… it is wrong to only look at one point of view and treat it as the only way forward in life. For faith can be transformed into something toxic that can harm lives, and faith doesn’t always just involve worshipping the Lord and the Gospel, it can be put into other things in this world and that too can be problematic and beneficial, and people need to be aware of that. Which is why storytelling should in fact, offer up examinations on faith that show its benefits and detractions at every level, and it just so happens that Peacock is about to be host to a story that does just that. For Thursday will see the premiere of Mrs. Davis on the network, a fascinating show accomplishes such a feat through its epic story.

For this is a tale set not too far in the future, where artificial intelligence has progressed to the point that it has improved human life. Eliminating hunger and conflict and want, giving rise to what should be an outright utopia world. One that finally sees the harmony we’ve sought. Except… this world too is imperfect, and there are those who do not trust the algorithm that is Mrs. Davis to truly save humanity and preserve its future. Which is why they are working to bring it down and leading the charge, is a nun, named Simone. Who will stop at nothing to save humanity from Mrs. Davis and her machinations and well… that really is the perfect plot to properly explore the nature of faith in our world and all of its many complexities.

Since that division alone speaks volumes to how there are so many kinds of faith out there and how people often think their faith is the right one. A storytelling plot point that clearly will offer commentary on our modern world and some of the clashes we are seeing now regarding such matters. But in between the bigger moments, is that powerful examination regarding faith, and what it means to us and its power in both a positive and negative light. A feat handled through incredible writing and deep dives into the characters and their journeys and what it is truly amazing… is that this new series has figured out how to present such matters to us in a manner that is supremely lighthearted and fun and engaging. Much of which comes from some wonderfully placed comedic elements in the series. Which truly allows for this show to be as entertaining as it is philosophical.

All of which works because of the show’s talented cast and crew. For Co-Creators and Showrunners Tara Hernandez and Damon Lindelof have crafted a masterful, sweeping story that keeps our attention from beginning to end and is filled with that brilliant commentary, and Betty Gilpin is a revelation as Simone and she is wonderfully counterbalanced by Jake McDorman as the wily Wiley, and Andy McQueen also brings some fascinating aspects to his character, Jay, and well… all of these elements bring forth a refreshingly original series. One that tackles incredible topics and entertains and wows along the way via beautiful surprises and thought-provoking observations on faith. As to how it accomplishes that in detail, we won’t go into here. Because this is that kind of incredibly unique story you need to experience fist hand and you certainly can in a couple of days. Since Mrs. Davis arrives on Peacock on Thursday, April 20, 2023, with four amazing episodes and we cannot wait for you to see them, and make sure you swing back here for more pre-release and post-release coverage of the show. Including our interviews with Tara and Damon, and Betty, Jake, and Andy, as we celebrate the release of one stunning story.
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As a bonus, here are some clips from the series premiere of the show for to you enjoy to further prepare you for the ‘Mrs. Davis’ experience.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 509 of ‘Magnum P.I.’ To revisit the previous episode, click here. Also, this article contains discussions regarding self-harm and suicide, which may be triggering to some individuals.
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It is definitely safe to say that the last episode of Magnum P.I. on NBC, left all of us extremely nervous. For Higgins brought up some good points regarding Magnum’s gambit to uncover who was hunting him and his friends. Specifically, that he might have exposed himself and his friends and risked everyone’s safety and well we simply wanted to know if that was the case or not, and this week’s episode did in address that worry, but in the most surprising manner possible. Because ‘Out of Sight, Out of Mind’ is an episode, that really didn’t hint at addressing such matters. In fact, this was an episode that featured some powerful moments involving Gordon ad Dennis, and quite the ugly case for our heroes to take on. In fact, let’s talk about that Gordon-centric storyline, first, since it had a lot of say about our modern world, and certain sentiments that are suddenly surging in parts of America where they shouldn’t.

Which was made possible by a mainland college visit to see if Dennis wanted to go to school in Hawaii or elsewhere and while they were there, they had a genuinely unfortunate encounter with an idiot of a man who fired off some racist remarks. The kind that served as an uncomfortable reminder that racism is alive and well in America right now, especially Anti-Asian sentiment, and it was enough to spook Dennis to the point where he truly considered just staying home for school. And while Gordon had hinted about preferring that to have Dennis around and home… he wasn’t good with that decision being made out of fear. And that allowed for Gordon to speak to his son from the depths of his heart and ask that Dennis to not be afraid and stand tall against such ignorance to shut it down. Which was an important message to express for certain, and kudos to the show for taking the time to speak up about such matters.

However, there was also mention of an ugly case present in this story as well, and it was a scary one to say the least. For Magnum and Higgins were asked to help in a case revolving around the death of an orderly, who seemingly took his own life. But as the duo dug deeper into the case at hand… they came to realize he was the victim of a grand conspiracy at a psychiatric facility. One designed to keep money in the pockets of a crooked nurse and the crooked friend of a man trapped in that facility. And since that poor orderly got too close to the truth… that dastardly duo was forced to act and well, they were to called to action once again when Juliet and Magnum came within inches of the truth. All so that money would be protected and that led to some genuine moments of terror for the audience and Juliet, as that orderly took the time to drug Higgins and bring her within an inch of her life and had it not been for Magnum… she might have faced the end. 

All of which felt akin to a regular episode, one that was going to have little to offer in the way of the big case at hand. But while Gordon and Thomas, and Juliet were dealing with their respective problems, Detective Childs was digging into the ugliness surrounding the late Captain Buck Greene. Because he was mad, he was excluded, and demanded that Magnum get him in on the case and well… this became a clear-cut case of be careful what you wish for. Because Childs made headway on this investigation quickly and stumbled not only upon the hideout for these shady soldiers, but he also came to discover that they had in fact identified Thomas and the rest of the squad and they were ready to act. As evidenced by the tripwire that ended Childs’ life in the blink of an eye and through the harrowing finale of this tale. Wherein T.C. missed the notice that an intruder was in his midst, which led to him taking a pair of bullets before facing an unknown fate.

Which is a cliffhanger that set the stage for a scary mid-season/spring finale for the show. Since we don’t know if T.C. is okay, and we don’t know if anyone is safe at the hands of these rogue soldiers and well… all of this made for a bleak and powerhouse episode. One that really hammered home the danger of this situation and how ugly the fight ahead will be. Because these guys are prepared and work under incredible stealth and that is going to make the wait for next week’s spring finale as painful as it gets. Simply because we must know if T.C. is okay and we are aching to know if Thomas can stop these guys and save the day and learn why these assassins were tasked with causing harm, and who was behind that decision. So that there can be justice for Childs and Greene and so the person behind the curtain can also enjoy their just desserts and well… it will be interesting to see all of that come together come next Sunday. Until then.