Caution: This article contains spoilers for the documentary, ‘The Kids in the Hall: Comedy Punks’.

Often times when you settle in to watch a documentary on entertainment industry icons… you’re usually treated to a story revolving around a famous singer or rock band or an acting icon. For they likely packed theaters and stadiums with their work while living their crazy and turbulent lives and getting to settle in and learn more about that messy existence is simply fascinating. Since it shows us a side of famous folks that we never knew existed in the slightest, and these types of stories are popular... simply because they feature household names that make the documentary in question, accessible to all and of course... they also offer up some juicy drama. But while those do indeed make for fascinating and powerful stories, the kind that speak to the madness of genius in general, and satisfy our need for a little drama… those aren’t the only great stories out there worth documenting.

For there are other titans of industry that have made an incredible impact that didn’t destroy hotel floors or careers with a singular tantrum. No instead, they worked their butts off and gave us their all and in doing so, became legends that are beloved and it really is a shame that those stories aren't highlighted enough. But in this era of peak entertainment, different kinds of documentaries are finally coming to light. The kind that spotlights the other titans out there and it just so happens that Prime Video is now host to one that explores the lives and careers of one of the most famous and beloved comedy troupes out there in The Kids in the Hall: Comedy Punks. Which is… a welcome and fascinating documentary for certain.

Because let’s be honest… this is a comedy troupe that while incredibly influential and loved by audiences everywhere… has kept their story to themselves and well, being able to get to know these gentlemen and their upbringing, teaches us a great deal about who they are and what formed their comedic chops. Not to mention… this is a story that takes the time to really dive deep into their formative pre-television years to show us exactly how hard they had to work to get where they were, and how much failure they experienced on the stage before figuring out what worked. Which was fascinating to learn since they hit the scene looking polished from the get-go. So, seeing those mistakes and missteps and experiments. adds new depth to their work and speaks to how much they love comedy and their craft and how hard work, and the grind are two key elements to mega success.

However, what allows for this documentary to truly shine, is that the humanity and honesty present in that segment is carried over to the one exploring the television years of their careers. Wherein we came to learn that after a couple of years of making sketch comedy for the masses… their old-school approach to the assembly of the show, and need for creative personal growth, led to the conflict and strife that brought about a difficult shoot for Brain Candy… and their eventual hiatus. Wherein they all came to learn about the wonder of what they had together. Which in turn led to their 2009 revival series and tours and of course… the triumphant return of their show. But what is truly incredible about this documentary, is that the humanity present in this segment, doesn’t end with honest commentary on their temporary split.

For we were privy to discussions about how those tough moments made them feel, and we even received Scott Thompson’s thoughts on his brush with cancer and the difficulties that came with that. But most important of all, we were treated to a real understanding… of how these men became brothers and how much they mean to each other and how that… is likely what brought about the iconic status they enjoy today. For their joining was lightning in a bottle, plain and simple and thanks to their love of pure comedy… the world has been treated to forty years of top-notch and influential and groundbreaking comedy. Since this troupe also broke down walls regarding the stigmas of the time and well… all of those explorations make this a top-notch documentary. One that everyone should see, to understand what really goes into making our dreams come true and to learn about how five guys that wanted to make a career out of laughter… transformed the industry for the better.

Caution: This article contains minor spoilers for ‘Cooper’s Bar’.
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It is definitely safe to say, that everyone has a love affair with Hollywood, and often view show business as perhaps the most glamorous job out there, and rightfully so. After all, Tinsel Town is a place where dreams come true and where writers, and actors, and directors, and the crew of any project… spend their days creating incredible new worlds that captivate us and leave us thinking, so who wouldn’t want to be part of that? In fact, Hollywood is so alluring to the masses… that there are even stories that explore the struggles of making it in ‘the biz’, in a whimsical manner... to politely remind those who want in on Hollywood to chase their dream… so they too can enjoy the wonder of creating for a living.

But while it is wonderful to know that the magic of Tinsel Town hasn’t faded in the slightest and that so many still see it as the destination for dreams come true, the fact of the matter is… Hollywood and the entertainment industry are indeed a business. One that requires more than just a dream, and a can-do attitude, to find success within it. It also requires hard work, an iron constitution and patience, and a level of dedication and love that we’ve never had for anything else in this life. Because success in Hollywood doesn’t come overnight and is wrought with failure and tough days and thankfully, there are stories that are now hitting the market that speak to that reality. Not to ruin the fantasy of Hollywood, but to really paint a realistic picture for those that want in on Show Biz and it just so happens… that AMC’s website and YouTube channel is now host to a lighthearted story in this vein entitled, Cooper’s Bar.

Now in this particular tale, we are introduced to a struggling actor named Cooper Marino, who is at a crossroads. Because the audition rejections just keep piling up, leaving Cooper to wonder if maybe it is time to pack it in and head back home to Buffalo and try something new. But a chance encounter with Kris Latimer, one of the biggest executives (and d*cks) in the business, in his backyard bar… leads to the chance of a lifetime for Cooper. Wherein he could potentially land his own pilot, provided he can navigate the politics and pressures of the industry and well… that plot leads to the honest examination in question. Since it showcases how tough it is to make it in this business, how competitive it is and how sometimes, a little bit of luck is what leads to a break. Not to mention, some of the darker side of the industry is exhibited via Kris… since her machinations speak to how cold this business can be. 

But there was mention of this story handling this in a lighthearted manner and that is handled by way of the comedy in this tale. Since it does use a bevy of jokes and quirky moments to treat some of the tougher stuff in a satirical manner. Not to mention it also features perhaps the most epic wing-eating contest to ever hit the small screen, one that offers up the finest laughs of the entire series, thanks to its side-splitting ending. But all humor and fun aside, where this series truly shines… is in the heart it brings to the table. Because at the core of everything, is Cooper’s dream. Which is to be the lead actor in a show that makes sense for him and nourishes his creativity and that… is what makes this show inspiring and uplifting for certain. Because Coop never compromises his vision for his career and never stops believing in the dream and does all the right things to obtain it. 

If anything, this is just… a wonderful series when all is said and done. One that is also anchored by some wonderful performances as well. With Louis Maustillo (Cooper) and Rhea Seehorn (Kris) being of note here, since they steal the show with their acting chops. Because they bring a real honesty to their characters and offer gravity in every moment they are on the screen. But what matters most, is that Cooper’s Bar is an inspirational story for a new age of entertainment. One that is honest and hopeful and downright fun, and you simply cannot go wrong with a story that asks the dreamers of the world to really take a moment and ask themselves if their dream is what they truly want in life and if they’re willing to tough it out to get it. Because that’s what it will take to get them across the finish line and well… now that we’ve reached the end of this particular journey, one can hope that AMC will commission another season of this show… so we can get more biting and hilarious commentary on the business and all the wonder and strife it has to offer.

Perhaps one of the biggest benefits of this era of peak television, is that franchises that might have never been given the proper attention or light of day… are able to thrive on streamers and find the audience they were always intended for… and be the mega hit that their creators knew they could be. Because the wonder of streamers has indeed allowed for any story to be told and the end result has been magnificent for fans. Since we’ve been privy to original programs that finally push the envelope and feature characters we’ve never seen before, alongside stories that captivate us with their originality and one particular show that has stood out about the rest because it embraces all of those concepts… is The Boys on Prime Video.

For this is a daring superhero themed story, one that truly features characters we’ve never seen in a story of this setting, not to mention it features a superhero universe unlike any other in fiction right now and of course… it is bold. Since it often features gags and concepts that no other story will remotely attempt on television, period, making it a trailblazing show through and through. But alas, it has been quite a while since we’ve enjoyed anything fresh from this saga, courtesy of course of the same global problem that afflicted everyone over the past couple of years. But thankfully, as the world begins to return to normal… so does the schedule of the entertainment industry and our long and painful wait for the next season of The Boys is about to come to an end.

For Friday, June 3rd will see the return of this series to Prime Video and well, to help ease the pain of this excruciating wait, we here at Nerds That Geek thought we would take a moment and preview the new season in a spoiler-free manner of course. Because we had the chance to check out season three early and spoiling it would be cruel. So instead, we can talk about the fact… that season three simply doesn’t miss a beat. Which is a big deal, since a multi-year hiatus can sometimes result in changes or tweaks designed to ‘upgrade’ or ‘refine’ the show. But that didn't happen here, and we are instead... immediately plunged back into this wacky world where supes rule the day, and that definitely relaxes the audience, so they can properly soak up the majesty of the show’s biggest and boldest season to date.

Because once again, The Boys takes the time to push the envelope with incredibly wild and off-the-wall gags that make one cringe and laugh at the same time and of course… the stakes have been raised like never before. Courtesy of some quality follow-up from season two’s epic storyline and some interesting decisions made by the Vought company. But above all else, what truly allows for season three to shine, is its character development. Because a world this rich is nothing without its characters and their ability to grow and move forward, and that is here in spades and it is just wonderful to see... and, it of course, leads to some important moments for certain, the kind that set the stage for another wonderful year of storytelling.

One that will once again have audiences buzzing about the big moments, the sight gags and the gore and all the laughs that come our way. For this season never once strays from the comedic roots it established from the get-go, nor does it shy away from the satire it has always offered regarding the superhero genre. All of which make this, the finest season of this show to date. Which is saying something, since season one and season two were incredibly polished and brisk and epic in their own right. But all of that aside… what matters most, is that the wait is almost over, and we here at Nerds That Geek cannot wait for all of you see the majesty that is season three of The Boys, and geek out about it, alongside you.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the season one finale ‘61st Street’.  To revisit the previous episode, click here.

​There comes a point in every dark story out there… where the folks guiding said story, have to give the audience a break and provide them with something positive. Because entertainment is just that, and it is designed to provide us with an escape and a belief that things will work out okay. Of course, not every story out there subscribes to this edict, since we’ve all enjoyed a book or a movie or a show that hammers our senses until the very end, but the majority of writers and directors and other creatives do and sometimes that kind of levity is welcome. Especially when the story hits a little too close to home and reminds us of the horrors of the world and that’s why the season one finale of 61st Street outright deserves our praise.

Because after seven weeks of harrowing storytelling, the kind that has evoked echoes of the horrible sights we’ve seen over the past couple of years. Wherein innocent African Americans have been choked to death or gunned down by corrupt and racist police officers, the show finally decided to give the audience a break and provide justice for Moses Johnson. An act that made ‘Man on Fire’ quite the satisfying and beautiful tale. In large part because this episode used the trial and Moses’ acquittal, as a sounding board for the frustrations of Black Americans everywhere. Since Moses was able to vocalize those frustrations while on the stand, making for a poignant and powerful moment for certain. One that definitely stays with the viewer long after this uplifting and satisfying tale came to an end. 

But the power of this episode extended well beyond hearing what so many have been desperate to express. For there was great joy to be found in watching Brannigan get called out on the stand for being a dirty cop and a liar. Plus, it was equally as satisfying to watch him squirm when that all-important and incriminating recording was finally played in the courtroom. Not to mention, it was downright incredible to see Detective Logan finally receive some measure of comeuppance by way of Franklin. Since he not only exposed to truth to Logan about what happened on that day, but he also exposed him to be nothing more than a coward. One that will forever have to live with that jelly filled spine when he brushes his teeth in the morning.

However, while it was incredible to watch the bad guys receive a touch of what they deserve, and see Moses enjoy his rightful freedom... where this finale truly shined… was in its messaging regarding how on earth we change the system and it's corruption. Because it is one thing to remind us of the obvious and immerse us within it, but we need more, we need to know what else we can do beyond mere conversation and awareness. And Franklin’s powerful closing argument informs us of the fact… that we must demand change, REALLY demand it. Because it is obvious now, that those in charge of the system… aren’t going to magically wake up and realize that now is the time to do the right thing. Because it benefits them, so why enact change and a mea culpa? 

So then, it is up to us, to hold these corrupt cops to account and make sure they know we’re watching and waiting with our mobile devices, and since so many in charge feel the need to keep the status quo going… it’s time to remove them from power and inform those that take their place that we expect them to work for us… not the other way around. Not to mention, it is time to change antiquated laws and make sure they serve the people instead of institutions and those were some powerful messages to find within this story, the kind that also resonate with the viewer long after the story ends. Simply because, these are solutions, we don’t think about or hear all that often, but if we truly want equality for all and an end to these horrible aspects of American life… it is up to us fix it. 

If anything, this was just a brilliant end to a brilliant season, because in many ways… the ending of this tale, a happy one no less… isn’t just designed to give us relief after seven weeks of pure hell. It is also designed to show us… what America could be. For justice for Moses and others in his situation, could exist, in a system where common sense applies over prejudice and precedent and where the truth and the right thing is top of mind over anything else… if we are willing to fight the fight it will take to create a nation where justice is indeed for all. Which makes this a poignant and powerful series that thankfully, isn’t coming to an end right here. For season two of this series is on its way and it will be fascinating to see what lies ahead for these dynamic characters in the wake of an earth-shattering acquittal. Until next year.   ​

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 202 of ‘Dynasties’. To revisit the season two premiere, click here.
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It is definitely safe to say, that nature documentaries are a great way to learn more about our world and its functions. For they are always comprehensive in their lessons, and they offer incredible insight upon the biosphere or animal they are focused upon. Because more often than not, the folks that opted to teach the world about a particular corner of our world… spent years filming in that respective location, allowing for every wonder and moment to be captured and shared. But while it is wonderful to know that nature documentaries will offer us knowledge and breathtaking sights and moments, there is one other aspect to them that makes them so incredibly special and poignant. 
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For more often than not, these types of documentaries also help us to learn some important lessons about life as well. Such as the fact, that humanity is part of something quite special, since we are but a sliver of the incredible life that is teeming upon this Earth and… that we are more connected to it than we are ever aware of. For a lot of the behaviors and actions that humanity takes part in, and believes is exclusive to only our species, nature takes part in as well… and that is a humbling lesson to learn. One that just so happened to be the centerpiece of last night’s episode of Dynasties II on BBC America. Since ‘Elephant’ is a story that informed us, that the pachyderm’s family behaviors, are damn near identical to that of man. 

A lesson that came about by way of a historical moment. For the elephant we were introduced to in this tale, named Angelina, gave birth to a pair of twins. Something that is so rare, that this was likely the sixth time this was recorded in Kenyan history, and well… their arrival is what brought forth some eerie parallels to our world. For we quickly came to learn that this family of pachyderms was without a patriarch and that Angelina was leading them and in order to see these two calves make it a single year, something that was also quite rare… the family was going to have to rally around these two innocents and do whatever it takes to protect them… and boy, did they accomplish wonders to keep these calves thriving. 

For these little babies, faced some tough struggles and some close calls with death. In part because of nature. Since they were infants when this was filmed and one wrong step, such as into the mud that nearly consumed Angelina’s son, could have spelled the end. Plus, the elements nearly spelled trouble as well, since the scarcity of food left the babies weak and vulnerable to predators. As could have the many encounters this family had with overzealous bull elephants that were eager to breed. Since their mating only focus could have ended with trampled calves if they had their way. But the family never once let trouble befall them. Since they fought off the bulls and other predators and found food and rescued the little ones from trouble. Making it clear that elephants will stop at nothing to see their babies survive.

Which is… a genuine parallel to our world. Because there are plenty of single parent families out there, where mom or dad will act akin to Angelina here and do whatever must be done to keep their little ones safe and out of danger. Not to mention, rallying around a family member that is struggling to make ends meet or to rear their child, is another behavior that humans take part in often. Since we know, just like animals, how important family is and why it is critical to support those that are blood and well, that really is a humbling and powerful parallel to find here. One that really does remind us we are part of something larger than our worries, and it will be fascinating to see what other parallels to the human world this series is going to present us with, in the weeks to come. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Two of ‘Troppo’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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Perhaps one of the greatest benefits of living in an age where technology rules the day, is that it is becoming harder and harder for people to commit heinous crimes. For CCTV is everywhere and camera footage can often pull up the crime in question. Not to mention, advances in forensics allow for a bevy of clues to present themselves to keen eyes investigating a crime and of course, DNA evidence has been an utter godsend to law enforcement. Since our unique imprint in this life, can easily tie a criminal to the act they committed and ensure that justice is served. But while it is wonderful to know that it is getting harder and harder to take part in ugly crimes and get away scot-free… there are sadly… still places where clues are harder to come by.
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For the wilderness is a place where science and technology need not apply. For it is mother nature’s domain and what happens there, can be easily hidden and covered up by way of the elements. Not to mention, sometimes the animals that roam about can take care of evidence as well. Making nature the perfect place to commit a crime, and well… that aspect of the criminal world is top of mind today, simply because it played a big part in the next episode of Troppo on Amazon Freevee. For when we catch up with Amanda and Ted in ‘I’m Sorry’, they’re still working the case and doing their best to figure out where Jong Min might be hiding or where he might have gone and that leads to quite the unexpected revelation.

In that Amanda begins to wonder if he decided to use the cover of nature to handle his escape or for his hiding place and in following this line of thinking, she quickly comes to discover, she is likely right. For her clever decision to obtain skydiving footage of an area that would be perfect for hiding… revealed that Jong Min’s car was embedded within the foliage. A discovery that immediately sent Ted out into the wild to see if there were any clues as to where their missing man went from there. A voyage that sadly, produced nothing of value to the team. For the car was abandoned and nature took care of the tracks, and really the only clue of note… were the words ‘I’m Sorry’, written in Korean on the glass and well… before our dynamic duo could do more with this information… a big surprise came to fruition.

Specifically, a leg appeared in the river near the car. One that most likely was Jong Min’s and that… seemingly put an end to the case since there would be little else to uncover except why Jong Min ran into the woods. But both Amanda and Ted, began to wonder if by chance… this was too perfect of a discovery. As though whomever wanted this man gone, was eager to use mother nature to cover their tracks or made it look as though nature was responsible for everything. Making this the perfect crime if you will, an idea reinforced by how Jong Min’s former partner was eager to find his files and that others had died in strange nature related circumstances as of late… and… that much of what Ted and Amanda discovered in that shed… was forever gone.

All of which truly ignites the viewer’s imagination for certain. Since we leave this episode, pondering heavily upon who could have committed such and act and why, and what Jong Min knew that would prompt someone to try and make him look to be suicidal and broken. If anything, this revelation and the realization that the wild can help to cover such crimes… only compels us to continue the journey further. For this is likely the doing of a dastardly individual that has thought long and hard about what they are up to and how to properly escape the authorities along the way and well, it will be quite interesting to see what Amanda and Ted learn about this death and the others that might be related to it, as the case continues to reveal its secrets to these intelligent gumshoes. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Two of ‘Night Sky’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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Normally when a giant revelation is revealed unto the audience in a story, said story immediately focuses upon that going forward and rightfully so. Because that kind of surprise is a big deal, one that is undoubtedly critical to the progress of the plot, and to the ending of the story. So, everything else has to become a secondary concern and that’s why the ending of the series premiere of Night Sky on Prime Video… was of concern. Because not only did the show reveal that Franklin and Irene are sitting atop an incredible device that transports humans through the stars, but a man was hiding within the celestial safe-house they often made use of. Which are a pair of surprises that should signal a grand a paradigm shift toward a different kind of story, which would have been an unfortunate move for certain.
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Because there was a lot to unpack regarding these characters and their relationship with their twilight years but thankfully, as it turns out… the next episode of this fascinating series… opted to shake things up when it comes to how grand reveals are handled in storytelling. For ‘La Capilla’ is a story that only barely focused upon those revelations and instead opted to world build and dive deeper into the characters and well… this shoving aside of an age-old rule… was a gamble that paid off in spades. Because the story was still engaging and powerful and most important of all, it didn’t ignore the incredible character development and focus, that the series premiere informed us would be a staple of this story. 

For we spent a great deal of time learning more about this beloved couple. Such as how Franklin is willing to do whatever it takes to keep his wife happy and healthy and quite frankly safe. Which truly informed us of how much he loves her and how much he needs her… and how much he’s eager to avoid further trauma and pain in life. Since we also came to learn that this couple suffered through all that via the loss of their son. Which is likely why Irene is so keen to help the stranger in her home, so she can atone for what she believes to be an outright failure in parenting. Which are all moments and threads that truly helped us to understand just how flawed this couple happens to be and how desperate they are to find some kind of meaning and redemption as their lives reach a critical tipping point health wise. 

However, as for the world building that was mentioned earlier, well, that was handled by way of two key fascinating plot-lines. One involving an Argentinian mother named Stella and the other, the very stranger that Irene was keen to take in, named Jude. For they helped us to understand… that the portal in the York’s backyard… isn’t unique. For Stella has one and it is her duty to watch over it in solemn isolation and Jude… well he revealed to us that he has seen a lot on the other side. To the point where clearly, an alien entity has made great efforts to track him at all times and really, all of these elements make it clear that the York’s galactic getaway is part of something supremely important, something that only a handful of people understand. 

But eventually, they will come to know what is buried in their backyard, and its meaning and eventually is an important word when it comes to this series. Since it is obvious now, that Night Sky is a show that is going to take its time with its story, so that it can really dive deep into every concept it introduces and every character that populates this unique world and that’s a wonderful thing. Since it means we are going to be treated to a supremely human story that is filled to the brim with big ideas and big moments and it will be genuinely fascinating to see how everything introduced over the course of these first two episodes is going to come together as the mystery of the portals unfold and other big truths come to light. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the series premiere of ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi’.
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Often times, failure in storytelling is presented in quite the positive light. For the many bold protagonists that suffer through it, use it as fuel for their finest hour. For they know what is at stake and they know that everyone is depending upon them. So, it is best they see failure as nothing more than a minor setback and rise to the occasion and save the day and of course, inspire the audience in the process. Because that kind of act is designed to teach us that failure is easy to overcome if we choose to view it in the same manner that our hero does. But while that is a supremely positive manner in which to view failure, it does unfortunately… do the audience and the story a bit of a disservice.
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Because failure is something… that human beings hold in high regard. For our society values success over anything else… to the point where failure is not an option or a mark of shame when it does occur and sometimes, taking part in it… utterly shatters us. For it can devastate our world and our minds and leave us in a dark and fearful place where recovery and a return to form takes time, and that is why stories that feature this more realistic and dynamic aspect to failure should be celebrated more often. Since they serve to remind us that overcoming failure is sometimes more than a glib remark or a choice involving a stoic look out of a window, it takes work and effort and resolution deep within our souls and that is precisely why… the new Disney+ series, Obi-Wan Kenobi is of note.

For this is a story, set ten years after the fall of the Republic, that explores what failure can really do to a hero’s mind and soul… and what it would actually take for them to redeem themselves and that makes for a pair of utterly brilliant episodes. For ‘Part I’ and ‘Part II’ waste little time in re-introducing us to the once proud Jedi Master known as Obi-Wan Kenobi, who is in quite the dark and broken place when we catch up with him, here. Sure, he’s alive and able to watch over a young and rambunctious Luke Skywalker from afar, but outside of that… he’s a shell of his former self. He’s terrified to do good deeds, he’s severed his connection to the Force, and he’s living an existence devoid of purpose. Instead, his life is now filled with misery, and this… is an incredible way to start off this story.

Because this mindset and this way of life, are the result of a man that has been immersed in incredible failure. For his best efforts to save the galaxy were all for naught and now evil rules the day and he simply cannot reconcile that the once invincible Jedi Order could not detect and stop evil’s rise and that his best friend and brother betrayed him, and that leads to some powerful moments. The kind that drops our jaws with what comes out of Kenobi’s mouth, courtesy of the fear that resides within and for a time, it appeared as though there would be no redemption for Obi-Wan, just more misery and sorrow and a past that he cannot escape. But of course, we know how his story ends and that he finds a way to indeed redeem himself through unique actions and the genesis of that is present here as well.
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For a surprise kidnapping of one Princess Leia Organa, one orchestrated by the Inquisitors no less, brings Master Kenobi out of pseudo retirement to take part in a noble act and even then… he has to earn the right to save a princess and he is going to have to work hard to earn his standing as a hero again. Which means that this six-part series is going to be a powerful character study. One grounded in the power and importance of self-forgiveness and a grand exploration of understanding what failure really looks like and how sometimes, it happens to us regardless of our best efforts and where we stand morally. Alongside an exploration on how we square that and move on from it and face it. Which will make this one of the most intimate and cerebral and adult-themed Star Wars stories to ever exist. Something that this franchise is sorely in need of. 

But above all else, it’s also going to be one hell of a ride. One filled with action and adventure, incredible cameos and moments of wonderful levity as well. Not to mention, it is also going to be filled with stunning performances, especially from Ewan McGregor. Since he is simply electric here and turns in some of his finest work as an actor, courtesy of his portrayal of a broken man that is desperate for redemption, and he’s just getting started… and he’s not the only one that is able to provide us with mere emotion through a stare. Since a singular moment featuring Hayden Christensen allows for him to shine as well like never before as an actor and well… in the end… all of these elements make it safe to say, that we will all be eagerly counting down the minutes until next week’s episode, so we can see what wonders await us in the next chapter in this bold and dynamic quest for redemption. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Six of ‘Ten Percent’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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Thus far, our journey through the mega deal side of Hollywood… courtesy of the Sundance Now series, Ten Percent. Has been quite the lighthearted affair. One that has had its bittersweet moments outnumbered by quirky adventures and goofy personal pratfalls and minor workplace drama, alongside some fascinating observations about the entertainment industry through the eyes of the agents that put actors on the screen. But after five weeks of fascinating insider looks at the business and moments that work out in the end, the writer’s room decided that now might be a good time to shake things up just a bit and offer up a story that is a little more down to earth, by showing us some of the struggles’ agents might run into in real life.
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Such as say… dealing with egotistical people that are more concerned with personal merit than progress as a team. Which is something that Rebecca dealt with in this tale. Because this was it, the moment was upon Nightingale/Hart to launch their production wing via Eight Days, and that meant, the press release spotlighting Rebecca’s hard work and efforts needed to be perfect. Which is why Misha worked day and night upon it, to make sure it was absolutely ready to wow the world and showcase what Rebecca was capable of. But alas, a request from Kirsten changed all of that quickly since she snagged the file and decided to put her name on everything. Hurting Rebecca’s feelings and reminding her of the fact that this can be a cutthroat business. The kind where anything goes if the right person needs their ego fed over anything else.

But while that could have carried this episode over the course of the entire hour, there were more tough struggles present in this tale, and the rest of them involved Jonathan. Because he was rightfully in the doghouse for keeping the truth about Misha from his wife, and that put him in a tough spot in this story since he had to find a temporary place to live whilst juggling a big problem at work. For David and Jessica Oyelowo had some concerns about a project they both starred in. Because it was paying David more when his stance was equal pay regardless of gender, and Jessica didn’t have the heart to tell her husband that he was about to be written out of the franchise. And since they made a pact to never lie to one another… they needed guidance from their agent as to how to navigate this problem without hurting the other’s feelings, and well, Jonathan’s advice was… to lie to one another.

Which brought about all kinds of tension and strife in the marriage. To the point where they reached a cold war of sorts. One that was going to keep them away from the premiere of this project, a move that would look bad upon Nightingale/Hart… or rather… Kirsten, of course. Which motivated Jonathan to find a way to convince the two of them to tell the truth to one another and to move on from this mess by looking ahead at their future career options. The kind that ensured they could remain honest with each other and see their respective concerns assuaged. Which brought peace to the whole mess and brought about the positive press that Kirsten was looking for. But alas, the fact that Jonathan encouraged them to lie and that they went along with it… motivated them to part ways with Jonathan.

A move that puts all kind of fresh pressure on Jonathan and clearly left him beside himself. In fact, there were subtle hints that he was suddenly second guessing his future as an agent shortly after this disaster and it should be interesting to see what comes next for this legendary agent now that his world is beginning to crumble. But while we wait to explore the fallout of this utter disaster, we can bask in the wonder of one brave tale. Because it takes guts for a writers’ room to show us a darker side to the business in a show designed to celebrate it, but it is the right move to make here. Since a proper story about the industry, needs to exhibit all aspects of it, both good and bad, and with only two episodes left in season one, it should be interesting to see if this is merely a one-off story, or if this is the beginning of a realistic stretch of storytelling. One where tough times await, and the humor will be the story’s saving grace… so things don’t get too overwhelming. Until next time.  

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Seven of ‘Shining Girls’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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Whenever someone we genuinely love finds themselves in a severe time of strife, we immediately drop everything to support them and help them and rightfully so. Because that’s what people do when those that mean the world to them are suffering, so that the suffering, in question… doesn’t last any longer than it needs to. Because love and support and the comfort of a safety net, really does help people heal through and through and oddly enough, it also enriches the bond we share with that person. Because nothing brings people together like sharing in a powerful emotional experience, one where both parts come out the other side… stronger and informed.
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But while it is wonderful to know, that we and others out there have no problem making emotional and time-related sacrifices for those that matter the most to us, what we and others sometimes forget… is how to approach that support in the right manner. Because believe it or not, it is possible to mess up being there for someone. Because different people need different types of support and being overly positive or making decisions for them… might be the opposite of what they require to heal in that moment. Which means that to properly support those we love, we need to dig deep and ask that person how we can best support them. So, we don’t impose and potentially, cause trouble.

The kind that it just so happens, was put on display in the next episode of Shining Girls on Apple TV+. For when we catch up with Kirby and Dan in ‘Offset’, they’re busy digging and discovering clues about Klara and Harper and their origins and place in the timeline and while they are doing that… Marcus is doing something of grave concern. For he’s back at the office… speaking with the boss about how Kirby is falling apart mentally. Not because he’s malicious or has turned upon her, but because… he thinks he knows how to best support her. Which in his eyes, involves Kirby stepping away from the paper and the important work she’s doing and sadly, he gets his wish. For she is indeed suspended and cast aside and well, that hammers the point home.

Because it is not up to Marcus or anyone in this life to decide how we heal or what process we take to do so. That’s up to the person that is going through the wringer, emotionally. For only they know what they need and how they heal and at what pace for that matter as well. And unless they explicitly ask for a kick in the pants or guidance, our job is to be there. To listen, to offer advice when prompted and to just help them not feel alone and well, it was brilliant to see this commentary on display in this series. Since this is a topic, we don’t discuss enough, if it all, regarding the healing process and once again, this series deserves our appreciation and our awe for bringing it up at a time when we are just now learning how to support others, when it comes to the trauma that life sometimes sends our way. 
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But while it was amazing to once again be educated by this series on the human condition and how we come back from trauma, we’d be foolish to not point out that the plot here, also took the time to wow us as well. Since this is a story that also featured a heartbreaking departure and newfound hope that Harper might finally pay the piper for his crimes. A pair of feats this story accomplished, by having Harper put an end to Dan when it seemed as though the truth was about to hit the front page, but in doing so… he may have inadvertently empowered Jin-Sook and Kirby to be able to hunt him down with impunity. Since Dan’s passing once again changed the timeline and saved Jin-Sook’s life in the process and basically freed them completely from the restrictions of the prior timeline. 

If anything, this was just, a masterclass episode in screenwriting and storytelling. Since it not only offered us a plot that progressed nicely, but it was filled to the brim with fascinating and powerful commentary on how we heal, all while staying true to its core exploration of the nature of trauma and how it impacts us. But most important of all, it set the stage for a powerhouse season finale. Because clearly, Kirby has had enough of being pushed around and toyed with by Harper, and with a new ally at her side, it is only a matter of time before this duo come for Harper and make him pay for every awful thing he’s ever done and well… we are all most definitely here for it. Until next time.