Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episodes 104 and 105 of ‘Grand Cayman: Secrets in Paradise’. To revisit the previous two episodes, click here.
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If there one particular word that comes to mind when most folks think of reality television, it would have to be, drama. Because that’s just what folks believe reality TV is all about. Catfights, battle royales and beef between old friends and new, and there is good reason that word comes to mind. Because there have been a bevy of shows that feature just that, and vapid moments that do detract from what these shows can accomplish. Which is… to showcase life as it is, and how not everyone in this life is all about the drama. In fact, there are some who want it gone and will stand up to quell it, as evidenced by this week’s episode block of Grand Cayman: Secrets in Paradise on Freeform.

A feat that ‘Sunday Not-So-Funday’ and ‘Stir It Up’ accomplished, by having spilled tea be cleaned up in a powerful manner. For instance, we saw Chelsea and Tyson working hard to be a more normal couple. Normal in the sense that they were building real substance with one another and strengthening the connection they’ve always felt. Because they were done with the drama and done with the nonsense, and they weren’t the only ones trying to quell such matters. For the talk of the town beyond what happened to Chelsea, was of course, Craig’s scandalous messages. Which prompted a lot of side talk and an eventual, ‘intervention,’ on the matter if you will. Which ticked off Craig to no end. Because he was stunned that no one came to him immediately.

Because he genuinely wanted to be better, he wanted a stable relationship and to leave that ugly persona behind. So, he laid into Cass for bringing it to him late, on a Sunday-Funday no less, and pointed out his innocence in this matter, and once that was done, he made sure to lay into Courtney at the Mykonos launch event. Because he didn’t want the drama, and he wanted honesty above all else. And well… he got that peace and inspired someone else to go for it as well. Because Courtney was still seething over what the whole Elizabeth situation. In fact, she was seething over Elizabeth in general. Since Elizabeth was also late to her own party, and Courtney felt she was rude all the way. So, she made a point to finally confront Elizabeth and confront the drama. Something that will be resolved next week it seems.

But what mattered more here, was that this episode block was in many ways, anti-drama. Since so many did their best to either squash it before it got worse, or outright made efforts to avoid it, as Selita did here and that made… for compelling and honest television. Since we do know people who want away from such nonsense and its proof positive that this series is more so about life down in the Cayman Islands and what goes into some of the glamour and glitz in that part of the world. Which is likely why we saw Elizabeth and Frank work to get the best from Julian and Cass for the big event and the day-to-day stuff didn’t end with that fascinating rivalry, one that did get messy since change was everywhere to be found.

For we also just hung out with everyone on a Sunday, and learned how important is it in this tropical paradise, to let loose and relax. Something we all could learn, and well, it wouldn’t be bad if we were able to take part in what so many did here. Since a day on the water and hanging out with nature and enjoying good food and good drinks, does sound like a fine Sunday-Funday. But all that aside, the true highlight of this particular story was the fact that it so anti-drama, and focused on just being better toward one another and supportive of each other, and that’s the stuff we need to hear more of right now in these tense times, and now that we’ve reached the end of this chapter, it’s onto the next, one that will undoubtedly be filled to the brim with more honesty and resolution. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 208 of ‘Lopez vs Lopez’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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We like to believe that when we make a life changing decision, a smooth transition will come forth for us. Because we’ve made up our minds and this is where we are headed. But it doesn’t take long for us to learn that just simply isn’t how life works. Because shortly after we’ve made our call, comes the echoes of the mind. Where we wonder if we made the right call and the emotions that accompany that worry, can be troublesome to say the least, and all of this comes forth because a life changing decision is just that, it’s major change that puts us into undiscovered country and sadly… for a time we will likely drift and make some unfortunate mistakes as we try to reconcile and adjust to our new normal. If anything, this is top of mind today, simply because it was put on display in the next episode of Lopez vs Lopez on NBC.

A feat that ‘Lopez vs Lisa’ accomplished by informing us that George… was struggling with his decision to let Rosie go and be with Josué. Because he was listless and distant at work, and he was immersed in the power of a good Taylor Swift song because she knew how to make him feel his feels. Because he didn’t know if he made the right call, and love isn’t something that fades overnight. Which brought forth rightful concern from Mayan and Oscar. To the point where they thought it best to try and help George get back into the dating pool. In fact, they were helping a single and lovely lady named, Lisa, do some moving… and she was flirting pretty heavy with George. So why not, nudge him toward Lisa and see what could come of that? And for a brief moment, it seemed as though their push to get George back on the scene to forget about Rosie was going to work.

Because he went on dates with her and responded and all seemed well. That is, until a big dinner took place at the house. Because Mayan and Quinten, and Chance, just wanted to have a dinner with Josué, present. To welcome him into their home and make him feel as though he was welcome around the family, and well, while that dinner played out, George and Lisa crashed it. Because he truly had not accounted for how much it would hurt to try and let Rosie go, and how important she was to him. So, he opted to resort to some childish measures, and used Lisa to make Rosie jealous, in the hopes of well… hanging onto what he thought he could leave behind. But he hurt Lisa in doing so and understood that he shouldn’t have dated her while adjusting to his new normal. So, he let her go, and made amends for his foolishness, and that… and a bonus surprise made for a powerful ending.

One where Rosie… still wasn’t aware of George’s feelings for her. Because while George was righting a wrong, Chance and Josué were getting the business for having a charm-off. Which brought about a fair chunk of the funny in this episode, and once that was resolved, well, Josué made his move and asked Rosie to be his wife. Which hurt George deeply, since she said yes, and that prompted him to exit. Which brought about a stunning and sobering moment for George. Wherein he truly came to understand what his drinking had cost him, and how much work was ahead to find his own balance and happiness, and we were able to understand… how much he was struggling with this new normal, and how hard it was going to be for him to adjust in the days ahead and that… raises a tough question.

In that… is Lopez vs Lopez about to explore another difficult aspect of recovery that no one likes to talk about? Because this kind of hurt, this kind of adjustment and shock to the system… could prompt George to either consider drinking again… or prompt him to fall off the wagon. Which is, a very real thing that happens to folks in recovery and would lead to all kinds of incredible explorations and moments with George and his family. But while we wait to see how George handles this moment, we can revel in another brilliant episode from this series. One that offered up amazing follow-up on a concept introduced in the last episode, which is also rare in this genre, and truly explored the difficult march toward change, and how badly we want to hang onto the comfort of norms… when we cannot. And it will be fascinating to see which path George takes in the final episodes of season two, with fear and uncertainty surrounding him. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 207 of ‘Lopez vs Lopez’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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Over the course of the past few episodes, the hit NBC series, Lopez vs Lopez, has done a phenomenal job of exploring something that isn’t discussed all that often in popular media. Specifically, the struggles that one will face when recovering from substance abuse. Granted, that seems counterintuitive to say, since we’ve seen shows that ponder upon the hunger, the want, the facing of the damage done. But recovery is more than that. It’s also about reconciling emotions, coming to understand who one is as a person without that awful mess hanging over one’s shoulders, and of course… one must reconcile the heavy, heavy price of addiction.

For it takes a lot and robs one of opportunities. The kind that may never return and that particular truth is top of mind today because that is what the first episode of this week’s block of the show explored. A feat that ‘Lopez vs Dreams’ accomplished by taking us into the middle of George’s mind, while he slept no less. Because in the world of dreams, George had some strange happenings taking place. In that, he could not stop dreaming about Rosie, nor could he stop dreaming about the possibility of a kiss, of romance with his ex-wife. Granted… he also could not stop dreaming about others joining in on the kisses, which woke him from his slumber… but these dreams were bothering him deeply and Oscar knew exactly what was going on here.

In that, George was still in love with Rosie and well… he needed to tell her post haste before this whole situation became far weirder than it already was. But George pushed that aside out of pride really. But during a late-night move, one that took place with Rosie because George was desperate to stay awake… he changed his mind. Because he fell asleep at the wheel and dreamt of Rosie and a kiss, and a singing Josué before crashing the truck and well… that prompted him to really think upon his feelings for Rosie and the journey and he came to quite the epiphany. In that… George finally came to realize that his drinking kept him from making a deep connection with Rosie, and it robbed him of a true love for the ages and a chance at real happiness for both of them.

Which left him to wonder if by chance, he could reconcile with her, be close to her again. So, he made the decision to tell Rosie how he felt but changed his mind at the last minute. Because a quick meeting with Josué at Rosie’s place to handle George’s testimony at the forthcoming accident hearing… brought about a powerful admission from Rosie. In that, she was happy, she felt needed and wanted again and that prompted George to dig deep and realize… that it was best to let Rosie be and let her enjoy that happiness. Because this was the price of his drinking, this is what it robbed him of, and he had to learn to live with that and find joy in new ways in this new chapter of his life. Which made, for a powerful, powerful half hour of storytelling.

Because that really is a lesson, we don’t find on television all that often, and it was amazing to see it play out here and be handled in a classy and impactful manner. But of course, make no mistake about it, there were laughs to be had in this story as well. Because George’s dreams and antics brought about the laughs. As did the whole storyline involving Chance being accepted into a Gifted and Talented class. Since it put real worry into Mayan and Quinten’s hearts, regarding their smarts, the kind that allowed for some hilarious mishaps to play out along the way. Including a little couple rivalry. But make no mistake about it, this was a deep and cerebral episode. One that really went deep into subject matter that makes us uncomfortable but that’s what good storytelling does, and it should come as no surprise that this incredible show is leading the way in such matters. And it should be interesting to see how George handles life without Rosie in a romantic manner in the weeks to come now that he’s made his peace with what he’s lost. Until next time.

We live in quite the amazing era when it comes to visual storytelling. In large part because, streaming has allowed for amazing stories to come forth. The kind that would have never been seen were it not for the current demand for new stories that surprise and engage. Not to mention, technology is allowing for dreams to come true on both the silver and small screen. Since CGI artists can now create anything, we dream up, and that too has led to amazing stories that have pleased the inner kid we all harbor, and the benefits of this era don’t end there.
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After all, technology and the internet have made it so that anyone out there… can make a movie whenever they want or create their own television shows. Which has also given rise to amazing shows and moments that we cherish, and it has inspired so many to follow in the footsteps of those who feel the need to create in this manner. If anything, the wonder of where we are at in the visual medium of storytelling is top of mind today, because another well-respected creative is working to transform a story that means the world to him into a visual feast.

For Author John Stith, who wrote the magnificent novel, Manhattan Transfer, a few years back (read our review here), decided the time has come to properly adapt his story for television and that decision has allowed for him to team up with some other creatives that have fine experience with creating shows in this new market. In fact, he’s partnered with the team behind behind Star Trek: Of Gods and Men, Star Trek: Renegades, Renegades: The Requiem and InAlienable to produce a compelling new streaming series of the same name, and this partnership is already paying off.

Because this team has landed quite the cast to take part in this new iteration of John's vision. Since Casper Van Dien (Starship Troopers, All American), Walter Koenig (Star Trek, InAlienable), John Billingsley (The Man from Earth, The Orville), Tim Russ (Star Trek: Voyager, Samantha Who?), Bonnie Gordon (Star Trek: Prodigy), Dominic Keating (Star Trek: Enterprise, The Host) have all comitted to the project, one that they are hoping for your help with. For Manhattan Transfer is indeed going to be made via crowdfunding and well, we liked the book so much and love the story and this cast, that we thought it best to spread the word about this project.
 
So at the minimum, take a look at their BackerKit Funding Page for the project, learn more about it, the other cast memebers we didn’t get to and join in on the celebration of storytelling that our current era allows, or just keep an eye on the project to see what it looks like from start to finish. But either way, it’s only right to discuss projects as worthwhile as this one, the kind that are being nurtured by storytellers that want nothing more than to offer up incredible tales that ignite our imagination.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Two of ‘Franklin’. To revisit the Series Premiere, click here.
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One of the biggest reasons we are drawn to stories about history, is because they offer up such incredible perspective, beyond the obligatory inside look at an era that we know nothing of. For these stories also tend to showcase how the modern world was formed long ago and how some of the actions that took place back then laid the groundwork for actions we take part in now, and such stories also offer contrast. Since we are also able to see what’s changed after all these years and that’s precisely why the Apple TV+ series, Franklin, is of note. Because its next episode took the time to showcase just that.

For ‘Welcome, Mischief’ deeply examined how the roots of modern politics and diplomacy were laid down during this event. Because the story opened up with a lot of down time for Benjamin and Temple. Wherein they indulged in the finer points of life in France, such as the food, the entertainment and the company, and its culture. Mainly because, anything related to America from an official diplomatic standpoint was basically going nowhere. Because both sides were dug in and seeing who would blink first and push first regarding granting aid or begging for it with concessions. And well… since it has merit and since those in charge have the time, clearly the concept of waiting it out and waiting to see who will move first on an important bill or diplomatic decision, is now a standard in modern politics. One that is annoying yes, but at least now we know its roots.

Yet there was mention of how these stories also showcase, what’s changed and as it turns out, that would be the decorum used in politics. Because eventually, when it was discovered that illegal arms were heading to the United States of America, the British more or less requested a parlay with Mister Franklin. One that required the use of doubles around town so Franklin and the British envoy could meet in private. Which was a meeting that while tense, and ended in stalemate, had a real class to it. Complete with greetings and respect, despite the British asking for surrender and Franklin expressing otherwise. And that is something we’ve definitely lost in modern times since everything is now about rhetoric and party lines and other such insipid nonsense. 

All of which made for a fascinating tale, with concepts that could have carried this story from beginning to end. But instead of just leaving it there, the series also took the time to follow up on a plot thread left hanging in the premiere. For that episode spoke briefly to how Franklin and others inspired men to fight for freedom and we saw a greater exploration of that here. Courtesy of two key moments, one of which involved a friend of Temple, who made a bold request to receive endorsement to fight in the war and another involving the British more or less sending a message to Benjamin and Temple. All of which spoke to the stunning oppression the British put forth in that era and how badly people wanted to be free of it, and how men like Franklin informed them they could be if they stood up to tyranny, and that made for a powerful ending to a fascinating tale.

One that truly offered up a grand exploration of the past, the present and the fight for freedom that never ends. Courtesy of an engaging tale, one that once again featured wondrous performances and powerful moments. Especially that exchange between Franklin and the British envoy, since that truly expressed the emotional angles of the war, something we don’t talk about enough when it comes to modern history, and well, that chat and the response… may kick this series into a new gear in its next episode, since Benjamin Franklin appears ready to properly express why America needs help and needs freedom to those who lie in wait. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 204 of ‘American Rust: Broken Justice’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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As we continue our journey through season two of the fascinating Prime Video series, American Rust: Broken Justice, it is becoming inherently clear what this show wants to accomplish in its sophomore season. In that, it wants to deeply reflect upon the challenges we all face in life, and how a group of shattered people respond to them. To offer perspective on the world, and perhaps help us through our own issues, the kind that resembles the struggles of this group, and well… never was this more evident than during the next episode of the show. For ‘The Hand You’re Dealt’ focused deeply upon something we all deal with in life, taking two steps forward… only to be pushed one step back.

Which is what everyone dealt with in this tale. For instance, Billy, Lee, and Isaac sat down to talk about their past, and the return of that damned wrench, not to penalize, but to move forward. Because that’s what Lee recognized needed to happen here. So, everyone made a point to be rid of that godforsaken thing and started to make progress in healing. Which helped Isaac find some stability and unexpected romance during a tough and scary day, while Lee kept making progress on uncovering what was going on at her firm. To the point where she sought advice from Del, and Billy… he started his journey toward serving his country, toward doing something selfless. But of course… those setbacks awaited. Since Isaac continued to struggle with his on again/off again affair with Russell which left him searching still for peace, while Lee battled blowing the whistle because of the possible backlash… while Billy… struggled with worse.

Because he has not resolved the pain inside of him, and that latent PTSD came back to haunt him at the end of this tale, and potentially will jeopardize his standing with Lee… something Isaac was privy to and this was… a fine example of how our own mistakes and journey can put us on a pendulum, which was further explored by Grace’s journey in this tale. Simply because… she thought she was on easy street with an offer on the table to help recruit others to the fracking cause, with big payouts of course. Plus, she helped Del corner a crook and she wasn’t exactly losing any sleep over Sue’s passing. But alas, Chief Park being told consistently that he was barking up the wrong tree and that he made this whole mess appear to be a targeting issue… combined with coming to discover that one of the murders did not involve his chief suspects, pushed him to just send the video of Grace screaming at Sue to the news… to try and make his case.

Which of course, embarrassed Grace to no end, and hammered home… how we are our own worst enemy sometimes and will set ourselves back. Because a lack of that video would have kept her smiling. But of course… sometimes we have no control over setbacks and that was explored via Del’s journey. Because the end of his weekend with Vic was quite fruitful, since Vic was cool with sharing his desires for goals for the Brotherhood, and that likely meant… Del had the whole group dead to rights and could finally wrap this mess up. But alas, Vic’s desire to be an abusive piece of trash, and the fact that his indiscretions made it to Fisher’s desk… prompted a real ominous fate for Vic. For he didn’t show up for the poker party, but Fisher did, and Fisher was the last person to interact with him before the game… leaving all of us to wonder if by chance… Fisher handled some business.

But more importantly, that left the case hanging wide open and set back Del’s plans to bring down the corruption within the Pittsburgh Police Department, and it was totally out of his hands. Which was the perfect way to bring home the life lessons present in this tale, one that has now undoubtedly set the stage for how we respond to those setbacks. Because now Billy must reconcile his pain, and Lee and Virgil must decide what comes next. Not to mention, Grace now must respond to negative press that can harm her new plans and Del, needs a new plan of attack. But while we wait to see that response, we can celebrate another smart and engaging tale from this series. One that truly did offer up great lessons and relatability, the kind that was indeed a humbling reminder that life is indeed what we make it, and even then… sometimes it is just not fair. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Series Premiere of ‘Franklin’.
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It is quite fascinating how the Revolutionary War is viewed in the United States of America. For Americans collectively hold to the concept that it was… glorious in nature and understandably so. After all, this was the moment when the founding fathers of the republic, stood together and demanded their freedom from England and demanded better days ahead for those who came to America. Not to mention, there are plenty of sections of the history books dedicated to how General George Washington, the commander-in-chief of American forces, led so many in battle to victory, and there are plenty of stories of how the Red Coats were sent running with their well-tailored tails between their legs.

But the fact of the matter is, the Revolutionary War was not as rose-colored as we like to think.  For the British Army was well-trained, well-armed and well-funded, and they did not quickly lay down their arms and surrender. They fought hard and kept the war going for years on end. Not to mention, in the early days of the war, they managed to give the Americans quite the scare. Because for a short while there, the initial onslaught of combat cost American forces greatly and put them in a position where victory was possible for the enemy. Which does beg an important question. In that, how then… did America turn the tide and obtain freedom? Well, one part of that answer is simple, in that… the French came to offer aid. For their weapons and wealth aided America in combat the way America aids others in their own fights now. But even the origins of that… aren’t discussed enough, but they should be.

Because in the end, it took the efforts of one man to bring the French into the war, a man known… as Benjamin Franklin. Yes, you read that right. The man on the one-hundred dollar bill, who coined the phrase, ‘Early to bed and early to rise makes a man, healthy and wise’ and had great involvement with scientific discoveries in that era… was the man who convinced an entire nation to step into a war that would shape the future of the world and his exploits in that moment, are to be explored in the new Apple TV+ series, Franklin. Which takes us back to that ambassadorial meeting back in the late 1700s and well, the series premiere makes it inherently clear that this is going to be quite the powerful and fascinating journey. One grounded in every moment involving Franklin’s fight to keep America alive through new alliances. 

Which means that the opening chapter of this story, ‘Sauce for Prayers’, is indeed… a slow burning, calculated story. One that yes, picks up shortly after Benjamin has landed in France with his grandson Temple, but that’s all the action you’ll find in this particular story. For this beginning is a long and winding character study, one designed to set the stage for the dire fight back home and explore the geo-political inner workings of France in that era, and its trepidation in helping a country with no clout. While of course, introducing us to Benjamin and his own inner workings. Which allows for some fascinating scenes to come to life, the kind that gently world build and explore the fight ahead for Benjamin. Because getting officials in France to say yes, was not an easy task. In fact, it’s something of a failure in this tale, and that… outright engages you to continue the journey.

Because now you must know, how the hell did Ben Franklin pull this off? Because it really does seem as though, there was minimal interest in helping the United States, and that this adventure was nothing more than a grand opportunity for folks back in Europe to hear about the wonder of the new world, something that Franklin uses to his advantage. But that’s just fine, because it means we are going to be treated to a long and winding story that explores every victory and every setback, while showcasing what America meant to one of its founding fathers and how that inspired others. But what is important right now, is that we celebrate a solid series premiere. One that sets the stage wonderfully and is filled to the brim with amazing performances with Michael Douglas leading the way as the titular Franklin, and truly… this will be quite the delightful history lesson. One that hopefully offers new perspective on the wonder of America and what makes it worth fighting for. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains minor spoilers for the documentary series, ‘Secrets of the Octopus’.
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It is definitely safe to say, that humanity has a very specific and unfortunate view of the wildlife that surrounds us. In that, we see it as truly inferior for a variety of reasons. One of which relates to the fact that animals cannot communicate with us in the manner we communicate with one another, so we simply seem them as unintelligent beings based upon that. Not to mention, that they lead such simple lives, filled with hunting and gathering, and that they cannot organize exactly as we do, adds to that bias. One that is downright incorrect. Because the fact of the matter is, wildlife isn’t inferior to us nor is it ‘dumb’ or simplistic… it simply functions differently than we do.

Not to mention, there are creatures in the world that have proven time and again they are intelligent and thoughtful, and can communicate with us in ways that are impactful and well… that means we as a species need to be a little more open to the wonder of wildlife, to respect it, to properly understand it and how special it can be, and one way that can be accomplished is through documentaries. Since they can teach us the truth about wildlife in an objective and compelling manner and it just so happens that last night, in celebration of Earth Day, National Geographic offered up a documentary in that vein. One that spotlights and educates us on a species of aquatic life that we don’t offer enough respect to, the Octopus.

A feat that Secrets of the Octopus accomplishes by having us spend time with these unique creatures, who traditionally… have been seen in that negative light. After all, their fascinating appearance has engendered some measure of fear, and there is a belief that all they do is swim around all day and fire off that ink when bothered. But this documentary series really does prove, they are so much more than that. For instance, this series showcases how their lives are in fact, filled with purpose. For the Octopus has no desire to just exist and swim about. It has a life to lead, one that features fascinating complexities from a social standpoint since they are social creatures, and they are true masters of disguise and use that evade capture by other predators. Which speaks volumes to how badly they want to thrive and survive.

But what truly is impressive about the Octopus, is its intelligence and its ability to recollect, and how it uses recollection in a positive manner to socialize. Because were able to see Dr. Alex Schnell, spend a lot of time with a Day Octopus in the first episode of this story. Wherein she made sure to make the Octopus feel comfortable and safe, and she simply observed and hung out with it, and well… this little Octopus, began to remember her, respond to her, and socialize with her. All of which is proof positive that this particular species of aquatic life isn’t some unfeeling force of nature driven by mindless primal instincts. It’s a social and supremely friendly creature that will make friends with whatever species it knows it can trust.

All of which makes for a powerful documentary, one that really does offer up a fine education in addition to the surprises, but more importantly, helps us to see wildlife in a different light. Wherein we come to understand how special these creatures are, the incredible lives they lead and how they are more than just indignant stereotypes and myths and legends. They’re functioning beings that harbor so much depth to them and that really does open one’s eyes to the reality that everything that lives on this world is quite special, and something to behold, and that makes this an important watch, one that should be experienced with the family. All so that discussions can take place and learning can be had, courtesy of this wondrous exploration about our eight-tentacled friends of the sea.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Four of ‘Parish’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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Over the course of the past few weeks, the intense AMC series, Parish, has offered up quite the cautionary warning. One that informs the viewer that it is not wise to ignore the pain we carry in our hearts. Because doing so does not provide us with a proverbial badge of honor that will propel us forward in life. Instead that pain will fester, it will drink the essence from our very soul and leave us numb and demand the worst of us to feed further. To the point where we will act out and do stupid things to give it what it wants and give ourselves a sense of feeling. But alas, while that is a powerful message to hear and one that has played out in an awful manner for one Gray Parish in this series, the only way to truly hammer home a message of that caliber is to showcase the consequences of feeding what should never be fed.

A feat that ‘Impimpi’ accomplished by quickly introducing us to Anton and exploring exactly why he took the time to step into the Parish home. In that, back in the day, when Parish was enjoying the spoils of living a normal life and was free from the trauma and darkness that plagues him now, he turned down a hell of a job offer from Anton. One that would have set him up for life. But Gray wanted that better life, wanted that peace and the price he paid for having Anton leave him alone… was that he agreed to never get behind the wheel for a gig for the underworld again. A promise he broke and that was why Anton showed up, to make Gray pay the piper for breaking his word to a man of his stature and well, the price was simple. In that, Gray either killed the Horse so Anton could have more power, or Rose and Makayla would die in the Horse’s place.

A horrible choice that truly hammered home, that if we do not deal with our trauma and put our past to bed, there will be consequences. The kind that will cost us everything. Granted, it may not be in the same dark manner as Gray faced here, but we will lose so much. For our behavior will become so toxic in nature that those we love will step away. We will also likely lose work, lose agency. and basically find ourselves adrift, and we may in fact, step back into the past to find comfort when we hit that rock bottom since there would be nothing left for us in the real world. All courtesy of raw fear, and bringing the message home early in this tale, allowed for the plot to get underway so we could see how Gray, and his family would handle the challenges ahead of them.

Because Rose and Makayla were basically prisoners in their own home and unable to do anything but sit and wait for their end, really. For they both overhead the thugs that Anton left behind, speak to how if they didn’t hear back by a certain time, they were to put an end to all of this and get out of there. Which paralyzed Rose with fear, especially when the police dropped by with more questions. Because despite knowing they would be her salvation, she was unable to act. But eventually, Rose came to understand that the only person that would save her and her daughter, was the person she saw in the mirror every morning. Which was why, when the bad guys started talking about finishing the job because of extended silence… she took matters into her own hands and killed those two men to keep her daughter safe and to see another tomorrow.
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Of course, we needed to know why there was such silence in the first place and the story was keen to supply us with that answer as well. Because Gray spent most of his time in this story, doing everything within his power to not kill the Horse. For one solid attempt to kill taught him, that murder and mayhem was not his style and not his desire. He just wanted to end this and leave the life and enjoy peace at last. Which prompted him to take part in some wild actions, such as call in Colin for backup, an act made easy when Anton’s lackey said Colin was the spy in the Horse’s midst. All so he had someone at his side that he trusted if by chance his desperate last-minute plea to the Horse failed miserably. One where Gray tasked this enigmatic and ailing criminal to let it all go, and let Parish go as payback for having his life saved by Gray.

A move that offered up that freedom and shock for Anton when he came face to face with his mark. But alas, the damage had been done. After all, danger had surrounded the Parish homestead, and Rose, herself… was transformed. For she was in a catatonic state when Gray returned home, despite calling her love earlier to check upon him. Informing Gray that his poor choices here were now destroying his family and that more hard times lie ahead. After all, he now must explain his past and explain how it brought them here and that may cause serious damage as well, and of course… Anton won’t be happy. But while we wait to see how all that plays out, we can revel in one dark and powerful tale. One that finally saw the chickens come to home to roost and challenge Gray like never before, because he refuses to let go of his pain. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Series Premiere of ‘Predator v Prey’.
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One particular truth about Mother Nature that we’ve all come to understand, is that she is brutal for certain. For Mother Nature embraces chaos and loves to enjoy the wonder of survival of the fittest, and for proof… look no further than 2020 when she challenged man’s prowess in a simple yet effective manner. For that required a little work on our part to survive, the kind that while harrowing, does pale in comparison to what the animals of the world, deal with. For they face challenges ten times more stunning than a virus, and we understand that as well and think little of nature’s brutal actions because of the edict that Mother Nature has put forth. For that is just the way of things.

But the fact of the matter is, there’s more that goes into survival of the fittest than just raw luck or raw strength. There’s science and logic and strategy that goes into such success, much like it was for us by designing a vaccine so quickly and well… it just so happens that BBC America is now home to a series that explores exactly how survival of the fittest works and what goes into how the strong overcome the weak around the world. A feat that Predator v Prey accomplishes… by offering up unique perspective on such matters. For this is more than a documentary series about predators and their prowess, it genuinely breaks down how they are physically superior and the science that goes into their hunt and that made ‘Lion’ a fascinating watch.

Because this is a story that wasted little time in showcasing, the science of how a pride hunts. For instance, we came to learn there that every attack on zebras and other such wildlife, are carefully coordinated. Right down to the distance and moment when a lion should strike. Which brings about great success, and the physical tools present within these predators also aid in success. Since this opening chapter of the show made sure to showcase in fascinating CGI, how their muscles, work, and react and how their strategy pays off in spades. Which led to fascinating moments, and a stunning one. Wherein a pride used strategy and their physical collective strength, to bring down an actual elephant. 

But of course, that doesn’t mean they are flawless predators and win every battle. Because sometimes… there are failures to be found. After all, sometimes the environment allows for prey to get away since the lion cannot properly react to said environment. Plus, a lack of food and downright fatigue can impact their actions deeply. All of which was showcased by way of that incredible CGI breakdown. Not to mention, sometimes failure comes out of sacrifice. Since we were able to learn that now and again, a pregnant mother will leave the pride to raise her little ones, and in doing so, will struggle to keep up the fight and struggle to put food into the mouths of her cubs. 

All of which reinforced the chaotic nature of the wild… in an unprecedented manner no less. For this writer is hard pressed to think of another series that breaks down the wins and the losses by predators in the wild in a manner this frank and this incredible. Because we truly do walk away from this premiere with a flawless understanding of how lions feed and how they conquer incredible odds to eat, and how they struggle some days and well, that made for one incredible episode. One that offered up refreshing perspective and outright leaves us curious to learn more. Because this is the kind of stuff that engages a viewer through and through, and it will be genuinely fascinating to explore how other predators function as this series continues along. Until next time.