Caution: This article contains spoilers for the series premiere of ‘Kevin Can F**k Himself’.
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Whenever times of great strife arrive in our lives, we find ourselves extremely worried and rightfully so. Because we know that our emotions are going to be on a rollercoaster while we deal with our problems and if they become overwhelming… well there is a chance that we might collapse emotionally and mentally and what will become of us then? Because then we will miss work, and we won't be able to pay our bills or our mortgage/rent and putting food on the table will be a difficult venture as well. But thankfully during times of strife, the primal instincts that we carry within us from days gone by, kick in and something quite amazing happens. In that, our brains shift into an ‘automatic’ mode of sorts, one where our emotions are quickly turned off so that we can function with minimal fuss.

Which really is manna from heaven, since we can do what we must in order to keep the cash rolling in and perhaps the best part about this survival mode, is that when the time comes for our disaster to end… our brains know to turn ‘auto pilot’ off so we can process and deal with the pain and trauma we just experienced, allowing for us to heal and grow. But while that is how the end of difficult times occurs for most of us, it is important to recognize that not everyone gets that bittersweet ending. Because for some, their lives are filled with struggle and strife on a consistent basis and that does leave one to wonder… what the human mind does when it is forced to keep survival mode going and it just so happens, that the brand-new AMC series, Kevin Can F**k Himself, takes the time to explore that unfortunate aspect of life in the most unique manner possible.

For this particular show, introduces us to Allison McRoberts and well, she lives in quite the unique world. Because it would seem that Allison is a character in an unnamed sitcom, one where she has to constantly deal with the idiotic machinations of her irritating sitcom husband, Kevin. And while that’s nothing groundbreaking in the slightest, it is what happens when Kevin is not on the room that makes this series and its opening two chapters of note. Because ‘Living the Dream’ and ‘New Tricks’ shows us what life is like for the characters when the cameras and laugh tracks aren’t present and well, life is not good for Allison once that happens. Because she is simply miserable through and through and can’t stand her husband or her life in the slightest and well… that really is quite the original and unique twist to inject into his tale. 

Largely because it serves as satire, the kind that frequently reminds the viewer that sitcoms don’t have a lot of depth or growth to them, especially for anyone that isn’t the main character or a woman for that matter as well. But what truly makes this twist so special… is that it leaves the viewer guessing. Because a whole world surrounds Allison, her hometown of Worcester, Massachusetts… to be exact, and that world is just as sour as her one-sided relationship. For it is filled with people struggling to get by and the vapidness and shallowness that we sometimes lament in this world and that really does leave one to wonder, if by chance there is no sitcom. And that Allison is so unhappy with her world and her life that her coping mechanism/survival mode is for her mind to shift gears and view any time she spends with her husband as a vapid sitcom.
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Which in turn would allow for her to see her sour situation as nothing more than a grand joke, allowing for her to sleep better at night and function throughout the day and if that is indeed the case, well that is downright brilliant. Because that would be a new way to explore how we cope and deal with tough times in life and well, what’s truly amazing about the opening chapters of this series… is that there is one more important twist to be found within its framework. Because by the end of this two-episode run, Allison believes that the death of her husband at her hands is the only way to be free of this waking nightmare. Which is a dire and dark direction to take this plot in, but it makes total sense and fits in with the escapism theme. Since it would indicate that Allison has genuinely had enough of her situation and is so desperate to be free of it, that murder seems like her only avenue out and well… that is a powerful revelation for certain. One that leaves the viewer eager to see if there is another way out for Allison since she is a good person that doesn't deserve having to stoop that low.

Yet oddly enough, that twist and everything this series has to offer, makes this a much-see series for certain. Simply because, this is about as original and unique a story as it gets, and this reviewer is hard pressed to think of any other series that resembles the structure of this one. But what truly makes it so powerful and worthwhile… is its humanity. Because Allison’s plight is painfully relatable on so many levels since we’ve all been stuck in toxic relationships from where there is seemingly no escape, and we’ve also found ourselves daydreaming of better scenarios when we’re mired in darkness. And well, now that we have reached the end of this leg of the journey… we will undoubtedly be counting down the minutes until next Sunday’s chapter in this adventure. So, we can see where Allison’s plans will take her next and to uncover the truth as to whether or not she’s actually trapped in a television sitcom, or if her mind has gone to extremes to help her cope with a life that offers her zero fulfillment.

There was a time, when storytellers wrote their novel or movie, or assembled their television show and put it out there for the world to see, and outside of the general reviews and write ups in the papers and magazines there really wasn't any addition commentary about their work. And there were most certainly zero discussions out there about what the characters thought or felt, nor were there any questions about what their lives might look like. Nor  was there any sharing from the audience as to how they felt during a particular moment. Because back then, print media was the only way to explore a story and well, once the internet and its commentary arrived, it changed the landscape of storytelling forever.
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Simply because it inspired writers everywhere, to ponder upon what the fans ponder upon and that has led to the creation of some supremely unique stories over the past couple of decades. The kind that genuinely explore what formed the characters into the person they are when we meet them on the page or on the screen or what their world looks like outside of the drama and action. Yet while that is fascinating to see play out in its own right, this being new territory and all, has more or less kept a great deal of these stories in fluffier territory, such as animated features or comedies, where the fourth wall violation isn't so jarring. But tonight, a brand-new series on AMC is going to take this expansion of fictional words to a whole new level, by looking at the darker side of sitcoms.

A feat that Kevin Can F**k Himself accomplishes by taking us into the world of an unnamed sitcom where a woman named Allison McRoberts has to deal with the wild and uncomfortable shenanigans of her husband, Kevin, in a manner that we’ve never seen in a sitcom before. Because once the laugh track ends or Allison is left alone and to her own devices, the audience can see her immediate emotional reaction to Kevin’s goofy schemes and the outright misogyny he sends her way. Which is about as brilliant of an exploration and concept as one can ask for when it comes to this particular genre of storytelling. For sitcoms are two-dimensional by nature and it is nice to see another side of this world that no one has ever given any thought to before.

But while that incredibly original aspect of storytelling could carry this series on its own, there is so much more wonder to be found within the framework of this concept. Simply because, this twist invokes quite the storytelling surprise. Because not only are we able to see Allison’s initial reaction to her husband’s shenanigans, but we are privy to her innermost thoughts and frustrations surrounding those actions. Which means there is some incredible depth to this story, the kind that really gives the viewer pause since it offers up some stunning commentary on our modern world and how we treat and view women. Making this series quite poignant and powerful to say the least and that immediately draws you into this tale so you can see where this depth is going to take us.

However, you’ll likely notice that we are keeping things a touch vague in regard to how the series pulls that off and there is good reason for that. Simply because, you need to see it play out in real time and experience its gravity and power and outright brilliance. Because no show is offering up the unique commentary that this one is about to, and we would be foolish to also not point out that the only reason all of this works, is because of the show’s star. For Annie Murphy is simply electric as Allison and sells this unique character with a level of gravitas and honesty that makes her open and accessible to the audience. To the point where you are rooting for her to find the peace she craves, and well, it is definitely safe to say that this reviewer is hooked on this new series and hopefully you will be too. Because this series really is something special and different and it will be incredibly fascinating to see where this refreshing story is going to take us in the weeks to come.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Three of ‘Meerkat Manor: Rise of the Dynasty’.
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If there is one unfortunate lesson about life that no one ever enjoys learning or facing… it would have to be that tough times will find us when we least expect it, and it makes sense as to why no one likes this lesson. After all, we always hope for good times to be maintained and no one enjoys strife in the slightest. But alas, a touch of chaos and a touch of heartache are part of how the universe operates and what is quite incredible, is that this tough lesson is also extended to the natural world, as evidenced by this week’s episode of Meerkat Manor: Rise of the Dynasty. For ‘Episode 3: Paradise Lost’ saw moments of struggle and strife come about for the Whiskers clan, shortly after they discovered peace and prosperity.

Because the rains of the Kalahari brought about a great deal of bountiful food for the Whiskers family, and that in turn brought them happiness as well, since they now had a wonderfully safe environment to live in to go alongside that plentiful food and well, it didn't take long for their peaceful times to be interrupted by moments of strife. Because for a brief moment, Swift forgot to exercise caution when she was taking the time to explore the new home she selected for her growing family and in doing so… she had an unfortunate run in with venomous snake. The kind that ended with a bite and an injury for dearest Swift. Which in turn left the family in a dark and worrisome place.

For this is how Flower met her end ages ago and seeing another one of their own be injured in this manner, was tough to process for both the family and the viewer. Especially since both were helpless to do anything but watch Swift suffer and hope that she could in fact, pull through her injuries. But while we will need to wait a bit to see what will become to Swift, we can reflect upon the fact that this sorrowful twist did hammer home the fact that the universe will indeed surprise any living creature at any given moment with tough times and all we can hope for now, is that little Swift doesn’t suffer the same fate as Flower once did. However, while that unfortunate surprise did indeed bring about some tough and tearful moments in this tale, there were some bright spots to be found as well.

Because sometimes, the curveballs that the universe sends our way can become quite the positive, something that the Hakuna Matata Clan took the time to remind us of. Because while they tried to unsuccessfully settle into their new burrow, another clan, led by the fang-toothed Daisy, opted to commandeer Flint’s old digs. Something that would have been of no concern, save for the fact that Flint wanted it back, since the rains made those once barren fields full of food once again. Which brought about quite the fascinating showdown between Team Hakuna Matata and Team Ubuntu, one that saw Flint offer up some wonderful strategy in order to re-claim her territory and bring about a touch of peace and happiness for her growing family. 

How long that will last however, has yet to be seen. Since Daisy and the Ubuntu Tribe really did have their hearts set on that lovely plot of land to grow as well and it will be quite interesting to see just how long she and her clan steer clear of Flint and her premium real estate. But while we wait to see what comes next, we can definitely reflect upon the power of one harrowing episode and truth be told, Caroline Hawkins and Hayley Smith and everyone at Oxford Scientific Films deserves our thanks for providing us with an honest and earnest look at our natural world and the world of the meerkat. And, now that this chapter has come to a close, it is safe to say we will all be counting down the minutes until next Saturday’s episode. Since we are all eager to learn Swift’s fate. Until next time.

It is safe to say, that there are a lot of misguided beliefs out there when it comes to how we deal with loss and grief. For some people believe that grief has a timer on it and that after a brief mourning period for those that departed, we should immediately pick ourselves back up and get back to business. Plus, there are others who hold to the notion that in order to properly grieve, we have to remain strong and stand tall at all times. To pay tribute to the fallen and to help train our minds and our emotions to not give into the maelstrom that is building within and well, these are simply some terrible views on how to handle this traumatizing time in our lives for one reason and one reason alone.

In that, there is no manual for grieving when we lose someone that means the world to us, and the only real way to handle it, is to let it run its course as the person who is suffering sees fit. And asking them to be strong or to put a timer on things is the wrong way to get them to heal. Which is a lesson about grief that we are only now coming to understand since science and psychology are finally taking the time to examine what the process actually looks like. But back in 1992, one television series dared to look at grief and loss in a different light than the rest of society by applying modern/forward thinking to the process, and that makes the next episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation, a brilliant and powerful hour of television when all is said and done.

A feat that ‘Hero Worship’ accomplishes by having the crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise encounter a badly damaged science vessel known as the U.S.S. Vico and well, it doesn’t take long for the away team to discover that the only survivor of this doomed ship is a young man named Timothy and once he arrives on the Enterprise and is patched up by Doctor Crusher, it becomes clear to Counselor Troi that he has a long road ahead. Because everyone he knew aboard that vessel is gone and that includes his parents and that motivates Troi to pull out all the stops to reach him, including having Lieutenant Commander Data spend time with Timothy, since he was the one to initiate rescue and engender trust.

Which is a decision that brings about the exploration in question. Because once Timothy learns that Data doesn’t feel emotions, he decides that the best course of action is to mimic Data and become an ‘android’ so that he too doesn’t haven’t have to deal with the burden and pain of losing loved ones. And rather than be scolded or mocked for doing so, the crew encourages him to indulge in this notion and that allows for him to process the death of his family in his own way. Which in turn allows for him to begin to feel again and when the time is right he even receives a tiny and healthy nudge toward completing the grieving process and well… that’s really how grieving needs to be handled and the show deserves a serious round of applause for being so forward thinking in this manner at a time when the stigmas we made mention of earlier… were the norm.

If anything, it just goes to show yet again… that The Next Generation was incredibly ahead of its time and tackled topics that no show dared to back then, and are barely able to do now. For mental health issues of any kind are still a taboo topic in popular culture, but this episode serves as a blueprint for how to address them in a frank and hopeful and progressive manner. Which makes this particular tale, nothing more than a powerful examination of the human condition and how a little kindness and understanding can do wonders for those in emotional distress and now that this beautiful story has come to a close, the time has come to dive into a story that was also ahead of its time, one that tackles the importance of consent. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the season four finale of ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’.

If there is one thing that fans of the Hulu series, The Handmaid’s Tale, have been eager to see since the show’s inception… it would have to be the complete and utter destruction of the Republic of Gilead. Because this horrific theocracy is about as disgusting as it gets, and the thought of seeing the now deformed Washington Monument collapse while the crooked Commanders that run this place scramble for safety, truly is a satisfying thought and hope. But despite our collective and vocal desire to see Gilead burn and watch the wicked be punished, the show didn't make the decision to move the needle in that direction until now… four years after this journey began and it only now makes sense as to why.

Because as it turns out, showrunner Bruce Miller and his crack team of writers are looking to take us on a supremely unique journey. One that genuinely chronicles the origins of a revolution and what truly drives people to decide to take up arms and fight and what we’ve been privy to over the past few years has been the various stages of that process. Season 1 for instance, features the moment when people decide they’ve had enough, and that the time has come for change. Whereas Season 2 explored the early beginnings of revolution, wherein people test the waters to see if they can in fact… fight a force that dominates them. And Season 3 featured the formation of a network of freedom fighters and the fruits of that level of teamwork, since Mayday was able to deal one hell of a blow to Gilead by getting so many kids out of that nightmarish place.

Which means that in essence, Season 4’s overall revolution theme, revolves around what brings those that wish to fight to the hardest choice of all. In that, in order to topple a regime, blood will likely have to be shed and people will have to die. And those that want to lead others into that fight, must figure out how to inspire others to take a life and in turn, must be able to do so themselves and well, that’s precisely what the season four finale of this series focused upon. For ‘The Wilderness’ put June at quite the crossroads. Because Fred Waterford was quickly negotiating his release back into the world and now June had to decide as to whether or not to make peace with the reality that her tormenter and assaulter was about to go his own way, or if she needed to indulge the darkness within and make him pay for his crimes on her own terms and well… her decision came forth in one pivotal moment.

Wherein she decided to visit Fred in jail and have one last chat. To see if by chance he was a man that was nothing more than a product of Gilead and its twisted teachings, or if he knew exactly what he was doing and made a choice to hurt others. As it turns out, the latter was the reality of the situation, something that Fred revealed by earnestly apologizing to June for his actions. Making it clear that he chose to harm her and every woman he encountered in Gilead and well… that was the turning point for June. Because just like that, she realized there was no remorse present within the commanders of Gilead and that the only thing they would ever understand was violence and fear in kind and that’s when she decided… to ignore the rules of etiquette and forgiveness that everyone was telling her to make room for in her heart… and punish Fred like never before. 
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But since this is June Osborne, we are talking about, and because she has made a lot of allies in her journey, she realized that pure revenge wouldn’t be enough to properly deal with Fred Waterford. No, he needed to genuinely feel fear and be dealt with in a manner that would show the world that Gilead’s elite were weak men that could be brought down. And that motivated her to pull some strings with Commander Lawrence and the remnant of the United States Government to plan a prisoner exchange. Where Canada and the U.S. would get members of the Mayday Resistance and Gilead would get Commander Fred Waterford and well… that was too sweet a deal to pass up and Fred’s freedom faded and to make matters worse for him… he never saw Gilead again. For June also worked out a deal with Nick and Lawrence, to let June and a group of former Handmaid’s to handle Fred's fate and well… that brought forth a horrible yet satisfying ending for dear Fred.

One where he was filled with fear before those, he wronged, ended his life and mutilated his body and well, while that should be upsetting… it is in fact, a perfect ending for a perfect monster. Because the only life that ever mattered to Fred Waterford was his own and he simply hurt so many and his death is also important and fulfilling, because it advances the plot in a unique manner. For now, June has a group of warriors that are willing to do whatever it takes to make the commanders of Gilead pay and now that they’ve made the decision to kill, the forthcoming war effort will be easier for them to conduct, and that war might come sooner than later. Because while Fred is now silent and Gilead is free of the trouble he’s caused, news of his death so close to the border might inspire others to rise and fight and begin the dismantling of Gilead that we’ve all longed for and in the end, all of these elements, will make the wait for season five a painful one. Since we are now eager to see what will come forth from June's decision to fight back and of course, to see what other rewards await us... now that this series is finally giving the audience, exactly what it wants. Until next year. 

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Two of ‘Loki’.
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Loki, Episode 2, has officially been watched by me… more than once. Am I going to admit how many times? No. I will tell you, however, that I have watched it less times than the entire run of The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. So. Guys, you know the drill, spoilers ahead, you have been warned.

First things first, I genuinely think that they are purposefully avoiding Owen Wilson’s character saying “wow”, and I genuinely with all of my heart hope that he does at the very end of the series. Also, what do we know so far? The Variant they’re chasing is a Loki. Now, everything within this branch is referred to as the Sacred Timeline, but we know for a fact that the Multiverse does exist. This Loki they’re after is likely not the same Loki we know and love. We also know that no matter what, our beloved Loki is the true Trickster. He’s mischievous on a very murderous scale. While I do believe this series is his redemption arc, I also know that it’s not going to be straight forward. Let me take you through my theory—at the end of this blog of course!

Mobius has Loki learning all about the TVA and then helping him find the Variant’s hiding spots. The thing is, this Variant is really tricky, and Mobius is a Loki expert, so who better to help find and catch a Loki than a Loki? The thing is, our Loki is up to something, and we know this because he’s actually cooperating. Dead giveaway to later in the episode? I mean maybe. But watching Loki be excited about discovering the possible hiding places of the Variant is really fun. Mobius also being so dedicated to this case enough, to take Loki to see Mount Vesuvius erupt just to see if he was right? I mean, kind of priceless. The Variant using extinction events to hide in? Even more priceless. It is literally the perfect way to go about unseen. Also, Mobius' kindness toward Loki allowed for him to open up in this story in a big philosophical way, since he points out the lack of logic in the Time Keepers' plans. Because if everything is set to be a certain way, then there is no meaning and no point to anything and why would any supreme being want that?. Also, how horrifying would it be if that philosophy applied to us?

I really didn’t need an existential life crisis today… like I really didn’t, but you know what? It’s fine… everything… is fine.

​Right, well, Loki is crafty and smart, but Mobius shouldn’t be completely discounted. He remembers the candy the Variant left and manages to narrow down the timeline they need to search, and Loki finds the right place and time and… well… maybe bringing Loki wasn’t the best idea, especially splitting him up from Mobius. Only, it’s the best idea ever. The Variant is indeed there, and they have a bit of their own fun. Remember, Loki likes to stall. It’s not a big surprise to find that Loki was only pretending to be the way he was to gain the TVA’s trust. Double Agent? Undercover? Trickster genius? All of the above. Let’s be honest, Loki is only ever in it for themselves. The real surprise was seeing the Variant be a female version of Loki—or was it really a surprise? Either way, Loki goes off with the Variant at the end of the show and that probably isn’t good for Mobius.

Theory time. Why? Because I’m rarely wrong and John shouldn’t be the only one who gets to hear my insane theories. Remember when everyone lost their minds a few weeks ago because Marvel released the trailer for Loki and everyone was either excited or mad that Loki was marked as Gender Fluid? I do. I was so elated it wasn’t even funny. We need some more representation. Right, well, that was our first hint at Loki appearing onscreen as a woman. Our second was actually given to us at the beginning of this episode. Remember the fight scene at the beginning, when the Variant enchanted a female officer to kill the others? Yep, that was it, that was the big hint that the Loki they’re after, wasn’t the male version we know. This is also Loki’s redemption arc, and we get the hint for that in the same scene, with the female agent fighting her colleagues while “I Need a Hero” plays in the background. Loki is the hero, or at least to Loki. Do I fully believe that Loki is good? Well, Loki says it best earlier in the episode. Not all bad people are truly bad and not all good people are truly good.

I also think Mobius knows something about the TVA and he purposefully set this Loki up. Not to stop the Variant, no, but to help them. I also think that there is more than one Loki already helping the Variant we know of. And Judge Rovanna? Yeah, I fully believe she’s not good. The TVA seems a little too good to be true, something is definitely up. While I never got far into the Loki comic story lines, I am excited to see where the next four episodes take us.

Caution: This article contains some spoilers for the series premiere of ‘The Real Manhunter’, and this article also contains reference to sexual assault. Which could trigger individuals that are sensitive to that subject matter.
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One common practice that fictional crime writers take part in, is basing their villain off of criminals from the real world. Because the depravity that the true monsters of the world take part in, does indeed make for juicy fictional characters, the kind that take that special brand of evil to the Nth degree and that of course, makes for some powerful storytelling. The kind that definitely leaves us in awe and leaves us talking. But while we tend to enjoy the final product over anything else and go on with our lives once that incredible story has come to a close, it wouldn’t be a bad thing if we took the time to do a touch of research on the real-world counterpart of the fictional villain that sent chills down our spine.
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Because the person that they are based upon, did horrible things, and hurt lives and likely took them as well, and taking a moment to ponder upon their actions… not only adds gravity to the story in question, but it highlights the efforts of the real heroes that brought them down and they do deserve to be celebrated. For they sacrificed so much to ensure to the long-term safety of others and that’s precisely why The Real Manhunter on AcornTV is a documentary series that needs to be celebrated. For this eight-part saga, chronicles some of the cases that former Detective Chief Inspector Colin Sutton worked on. Whose work led to the creation of the Manhunt series, and well… having a series such as this out there, really is a proper way to pay tribute to the work that goes into a being a detective and the importance of having them around… since Colin really did bring down some awful human beings.

For instance, the opening chapter in this saga, ‘The Night Stalker – Delroy Grant’ revolves around a 17-yearlong nightmare case that Colin was able to bring to a close in London. One where a man that was indeed nicknamed ‘The Night Stalker’, did awful things under the cover of darkness. For he would break into the homes of the elderly and rob them for every penny they had in their homes and in some cases, he would even go so far as to sexually assault them. But despite the police force’s best efforts to try and capture him, they simply could not. And it didn’t matter how much of their resources they tossed at a particular assault, he just kept at it and kept going and that gave the police outright fits. But with Colin on the case, things changed. For he started to realize that a new strategy would need to be employed in order to bring this man to justice.

In that, the police could no longer treat this as a homicide investigation and go after detailed forensic evidence after a crime had been committed. Instead, they would need to try and capture this man in real time and treat him as an actual burglar and use surveillance to find him in the middle of his hunt for money and well… eventually that particular plan worked and Delroy Grant was brought to justice. Which is an outcome that should give the viewer nothing but joy, but instead it leaves one somber. Because Grant was indeed a monster, one that hurt innocent lives so badly that some of the victims were never the same after his actions. And while he couldn’t be directly tied to the death of a few of his victims, it is inherently obvious that his decision to harm others… indirectly stole their will to live and that’s powerful to learn and it truly hammers home why we tend to not look into this kind of detail after enjoying a fictional account based on events like these.

For the story in question doesn’t show us the human impact of crime, nor does it hammer home the cold nature of the crimes that are committed. For in reality, most people akin to Grant are indeed emotionless and without remorse for their crimes and seeing that on display does indeed make one uncomfortable. But that is in fact, a healthy thing. For it means that documentaries in this vein, reach us on a fundamental level and help us to genuinely understand that crimes in this manner are unacceptable and disgusting and it gives the victims a secondary sense of justice since their stories are being told, and truly, it will be quite difficult but worthwhile to see what other incredible criminals Colin brought to justice during his illustrious career. As we continue our journey through this powerful and sobering series. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Six of ‘Blinded: Those Who Kill’.

Over the course of the past few weeks, we’ve talked at length about how the AcornTV series, Blinded: Those Who Kill, has done a phenomenal job of shattering the tropes and clichés that permeate the serial killer subgenre of storytelling. Because week in and week out, this series keeps finding new ways to turn those old and tired concepts upside down to provide us with a compelling tale that both surprises and engrosses the viewer and well, this is important to bring up today, simply because the series is showing no signs of letting up on this particular quest. In fact, the next episode in this storied and harrowing saga opted to take its revolutionary storytelling to a whole new level by making something happen that rarely happens in this genre. 

In that, it had the killer and the hero play nice and grow close to one another and that really is something that is unheard of. For they are supposed to be sworn enemies, the kind that play a careful cat and mouse game that builds tension and suspense, before they throw down and take part in a magnificent and epic final showdown. One that sees good prevail over evil and of course leaves the audience satisfied and really… the only time they are ‘friends’ is if the story is going to be grand and sweeping and consist of multiple chapters, so that their falling out and line drawing has meaning and gravity. But here, we were simply taken by surprise because Peter finally showed off his charisma and charm a la Ted Bundy and caught Louise’s eye… by sending a touch of kindness her way. 

Because she forgot her wallet when she needed gas, and Peter was there to step in and help and that allowed for a burgeoning flirt fest to take place. One where Louise repaid him in kind and kept running into him all over town. Which made it seem as though fate was suddenly bringing these two together in a positive and beautiful light… when in fact, this was nothing short of horrifying. For we know what Peter is and what he is capable of and seeing him turn on the charm jets and woo Louise made for an uncomfortable experience for certain. Because it was obvious that this was nothing more than an act from Peter, one designed to make him appear normal whilst dark emotions were raging underneath his brilliant smile. But just when it seemed as though Louise was going to keep this flirt fest at arm’s length while she and the crew closed in on Peter, this already incredible twist took an even wilder turn.

For Louise was struggling with her future and her broken heart in this tale. Because she genuinely wants someone special in her life, someone that appreciates her and recognizes her for who she is. And sadly, Peter did that, and his charisma was strong for certain. To the point where Louise pondered upon whether or not to perhaps take their budding puppy love (or nightmare if you prefer) to a whole new level. And when she was at her lowest and loneliest, she decided that the time was right to use his attention to comfort her and one thing led to another, and Peter and Louise spent the night in bed. A move that outright horrifies and confuddles and disgusts the audience, because of what we know about this particularly disgusting monster, and it is simply terrifying to know that Louise fell into this spider’s web.

But alas, what is done is done and there will undoubtedly be consequences abound for her decision here. Because eventually, all will be revealed, and she will have to cope with the horrific reality that she was intimate with a man that killed people that matter dearly to her, and one can only hope that she’ll be able to reconcile that. But while we wait to see that nightmare come to fruition, we can bask in one unique tale. Because you just don’t see the hero fall in love with the villain in this manner and it really was quite the unique twist to throw into an already unconventional story and well at this point, it is outright safe to say that fans of this series will waste zero time on hitting ‘play’​ on the next episode, so they can see what will come out of this stunning and unfortunate twist. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Five of ‘Whitstable Pearl’.
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It is definitely safe to say that criminals at any level are viewed in a supremely negative light because there really is a stigma that surrounds committing a crime. One that immediately makes people believe that those who go to jail or commit an illegal act, have somehow decided to turn their back on the moral standing of mankind to sow chaos and sorrow. Which is a line of thinking that has been engrained in us because the criminals that make the national news are often times twisted individuals that really have opted to do something horrible in the name of outright evil or to send a message. But outside of that, such perception is woefully incorrect. Because not all criminals are comic book villains or serial killers that are eager to harm everyone in the name of some deep-rooted disdain for humanity.

No instead, a vast majority of criminals are people that make mistakes in the moment, and they do their time, and they return to society with few ever knowing about their crimes. Or they decide to hurt others because they have a psychological need to fulfill and that’s why stories that feature a more realistic look at crime in the world, deserve a round of applause. Because these are tales that are genuinely working to educate us on what the world really looks like and how it becomes quite grey for some and really, all of this is relevant to our discussion today… simply because the next episode of Whitstable Pearl on Acorn TV, takes the time to tech us about the pettier and simpler reasons that sometimes motivate people to commit crimes. A feat that ‘A Cup O’ Kindness’ achieved… after outright fooling us. For early on in this tale, it appeared as though this story was going to be a more traditional crime story, since Pearl was pulled into what appeared to be a sailing family feud, one where someone had murder on their mind.

Because boats were being damaged and people were close to getting badly hurt, seemingly because two families could not stand one another. But something about their fight didn't quite scream murderous intentions, because while there was bad blood between these two families, there was no proper motive for such an act. Which motivated Pearl to look closer at the constant infighting within the Mills family, to see if there was a different culprit bringing about all of this strange trouble and that was indeed the case. For it was revealed that young Chloe, a teenager caught in the crossfire of her parents’ divorce, was acting out and causing harm to all things sailing as a cry for help. Giving us our first lesson in why people commit crimes, since her actions were rooted in an emotional breakdown. Which helped to teach us that sometimes, being pushed to our emotional limits can motivate us to do stupid things, rules be damned.

But while that alone could have carried this tale and hammered home the lesson nicely, there was another aspect to this theme that the show wanted to explore. Specifically, how some people will commit crimes to fill a psychological void in their hearts. And that was handled by way of a surprise revelation. In that, Chloe’s grandmother; Rosie… was outright poisoning her. Not because she was cruel and evil or eager to teach Chloe some kind of horrible lesson. But because grandma had no sense of self-worth or validation, and by hurting Chloe and her daughter years before… she was needed and wanted by them, and could ride that high for as long as it would last. Making her a pathetic villain when all is said and done, one that simply never loved herself in the slightest and that is quite the incredible twist to inject into what turned out to be one incredible episode. 

Because this really is the kind of stuff that is rarely addressed in crime dramas, and it was simply refreshing to see some genuinely realistic crimes play out here. Which just goes to show that Whitstable Pearl is eager to be a crime drama unlike any other and it is doing a fine job of establishing that title for certain, and it is also doing a wonderful job… of giving the audience what it wants. For this episode also saw something incredible happen, in that… DCI Mike McGuire finally came to realize that Pearl had captured his heart and helped him to believe that there is life after loss after all. Which in turn motivated them to share an intimate kiss and well, that was supremely satisfying to see since they truly deserve one another, and it will be quite nice to finally see Pearl Nolan and Mike McGuire, enjoy a little happiness for a change, when next week’s season finale gets underway.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Three of ‘Ms. Fisher’s Modern Murder Mysteries’.

Often times in storytelling, love is portrayed in a supremely positive and transformative light and rightfully so. Because when love finds us and works its way into our hearts, the world really does become a brighter place. Where the air tastes cleaner, the sky is brighter and we’re so happy that we believe we can achieve anything with our newfound love at our side. And focusing upon that aspect of love, definitely makes for some feel good storytelling, the kind that makes us appreciate the connection we’ve found, or it emboldens us to continue the search if we haven’t found our person just yet. But while feel-good love stories are definitely crowd pleasers through and through, they sadly provide their audience with something of a disservice, since they ignore the mistakes that we make when we are in a relationship.
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Because love also makes us foolish, to the point where we sometimes do ridiculously childish things when the hardships that come with a relationship come to fruition. Plus, we are sometimes forced to make incredibly difficult decisions in regard to our relationship, including ending it if we come to realize that there is a strong chance our love affair might cause our partner harm down the line and really, stories that take the time to explore those hardships need to be commended. Simply because they’re being honest with their audiences and exploring topics that we normally don't think about... but need to, and that’s precisely why this week’s episode of Ms. Fisher’s Modern Murder Mysteries ​on Acorn TV needs to be celebrated. Since ‘Blood Wedding’ takes the time to spotlight both of those more difficult aspects of love in a frank and earnest manner. 

A feat that this story accomplishes, by sending James and Peregrine to James’ old stomping grounds to solve a murder involving a house hand (named Eddie) at his father’s estate and well, this particular mystery is what allowed for the series to explore why a person would break off a love affair, in a supremely creative manner. By first making it appear as though Eddie perished out of jealousy revolving around a love triangle since a bride-to-be was involved with him. But instead, it was revealed that the Eddie came to learn that the woman, he loved… was his half-sister. Prompting him to end it regardless of his feelings because of the problems and pain that such a revelation might cause the both of them. Making it clear that really caring for a person sometimes involves letting them go when the circumstances call for it, and oddly enough, that discovery also led to his death. For he stood to inherit a fortune as a member of the bride’s family, adding another theme into the mix, specifically… that money also drives us to do horrible things. 

As for the other love related theme we mentioned a moment ago, well that was handled by both Peregrine and James in this particular tale. Because Detective Steed was still reeling over the fact that Peregrine suspended their engagement and that put him in quite the bitter place. One where he was so hurt and so confused that he was unable to communicate his feelings for her properly and instead reverted to childish and boyhood behavior to express himself. Which is something that stunned Peregrine, since she was trying desperately to explain that this wasn’t the end and that she simply needed time to process all of this and well, while this part of the story was indeed frustrating, since we know these two are simply mad for one another… this was quite realistic. Because when we are deeply in love with someone and eager to spend every waking moment with them, it can blind us to their needs and wants since we are only answering to the heart at that point and well… the heart can definitely make us dumb. 
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However, that being said, it most certainly doesn’t excuse James’ behavior here. Because he’s better than that and Peregrine deserves better, and clear lines of communication and he needs to take a step back and provide her with just that. But while we wait to see if James can be as progressive as his love, we can bask in one fascinating tale. One that really did offer up quite the mystery since it kept us guessing at every turn before finally offering up its phenomenal reveal and of course, it really did provide us with some incredible musings on matters of love. The kind that really do motivate the viewer to ponder upon their own love life, both past and present and question whether or not we’re being a classy Peregrine, or a fussy James and throwing that into the mix really does make this a special episode. Since murder mysteries and crime dramas rarely challenge their audience in this manner and well, that little surprise and the quality story present here, definitely leaves one eager for more. So, we can see what other storytelling surprises, season two of this magnificent series… has in store for us. Until next time.