Please enjoy this rapid recap of Episode 101 of Deb’s House on WE tv and ALLBLK, along with a refresher clip and a summary of the eight finalists moving into Deb’s house before tomorrow’s brand-new episode arrives!
Episode 101 – “Let the Games Begin” – Premiered Friday, June 14th on WE tv and ALLBLK at 10pm ET/PT Legendary music mogul Deb Antney is on a nationwide hunt to find the next female rap superstar. In a rap cypher hosted by The Source magazine, Ms. Deb handpicks eight women to move into her house. But when two rappers don't play by her rules, Deb is forced to make a harsh decision. 8 CONTESTANTS COMPETING IN DEB’S HOUSE
Alectra – 20, Bakersfield, CA
As an Instagram and Tik Tok sensation, Alectra has a huge social media following. Her rise to popularity started in 2013 at the age of ten when she was cast as a host on the "Trill Ship" show. She then began dancing, modeling, and acting with credits including “Dance Moms,” LAFW, NYFW, Apple, Beats By Dre, and Dunkin Donuts. She earned her SAG-AFTRA card in 2017 and continued acting. Alectra can be seen on the reality show "GoatFam LA" where she wrote, casted, directed, and starred on the show. Motivation: She wants to be a star, Nicki Minaj is her biggest influence. Instagram: @alectra
Big Mali - 22, Henderson, NC
North Carolina’s “most lit” female rapper. Big Mali is no stranger to the rap scene — she started rapping at the age of 8 but didn’t take it seriously until the age of 14. She makes trap music look sexy and her signature tagline of obscene language is a favorite amongst her fans. Signed her first recording deal in 2017 and dropped her first project "If I Fall Asleep" in 2018. Her road to stardom includes over 10 million views on YouTube. She’s well known for her 2020 projects “First Lady” and “Gangsta Talk.” On stage, she's opened up for Charlotte rapper DaBaby and St. Louis rapper Sexyy Red, and she has headlined her own shows. Most recently, her music was featured on the award-winning HBO series "Euphoria." Her continued success has allowed her to provide for her family, which she takes pride in. Motivation: Mali says she is willing to sacrifice everything. She has worked with a lot of artists, and believes she has already made it. Instagram: @bigmali3x
Dank – 28, Detroit, MI
Dank DeMoss is holding it down in the Detroit female rap scene. Daddy’s little girl made the transition from singing to rapping after the tragic loss of her father, who was a popular local rapper in Detroit. Dank is well-known in the Detroit rap scene, sometimes even ghostwriting for other female artists. Although she's faced some haters for her size, Dank is all about spreading that self-esteem, self-love, and self-courage message. She's reppin' her 500-pound status with pride, embracing her weight, and crediting her stomach as the sexiest part about her. Motivation: Following the loss of her father, who was a rapper, Dank transitioned from viewing rapping as a hobby to embracing it as her true passion. Her ultimate aspiration is to attain a level of stardom that surpasses even that of Beyoncé and Lizzo. Dank is inspired by her weight, aiming to demonstrate that size doesn't overpower talent. Instagram: @dankdemoss
Honey B – 25, Charlotte, NC
Ms. Deb loves her. She was bullied in school, and has been in verbally and physically abusive relationships. She turned her pain into purpose and is a big self love advocate. Instagram: @honeyb
Hot Chok - 28, Philadelphia, PA (*New Addition in Ep 102)
The “trench” queen remains the underdog of Philly's rap scene. Known for her gangster-style female rap, her bold and gritty delivery is a testament to her tough upbringing. Chok has been in the game for a while now..Coming from working with the same teams as Lil Uzi and being in Meek Mill’s camp, Chok is patiently waiting for her moment. Her career was the reason she kept her three children a secret, as she felt she couldn't be a pregnant gangster rapper. Motivation: Using her life experiences as a canvas for storytelling through music, Chok is channeling the struggles of her upbringing. Feeling that she has to conceal her role as a mother to maintain her tough public image, she aims to inspire others by showcasing resilience, strength, and the power to rise above difficult circumstances. Through her lyrics and journey, Chok strives to send a powerful message that one can overcome challenges, redefine stereotypes, and emerge stronger on the other side. Instagram: @chok215promo
Queen Izzy – 26, Nigeria by way of Raleigh, NC
Izzy comes from immigrant parents. She quit her job to come on the show, but was afraid to tell her dad. Having both African and American backgrounds, Izzy's goal is to bridge the gap between Afrobeats and Hip-Hop. As an independent artist, well known for her weekly "Freestyle Fridays.” Her works have been noticed by Davido, Zlatan, Burna Boy, Adekunle Gold, Ice Prince, Rexxie, Naira Marley, Skiibii, Tank, Ckay, Fat Joe, Russ, Reekado Banks, Manny Wellz, Ycee, Candy Bleakz, DanDizzy, Cheque, Teni, Yung6, Jarule, Bbanks, Pheelz, & More. She is a very versatile artist – she does Afrobeats, raps and sings. Izy defines her genre of music as 'Afro-Trap.' Motivation: To show immigrants they can make it, and to give a voice to immigrants. Instagram: @queenizzy
Rocky – 28, Philadelphia, PA
Rocky is the highest-viewed and most sought-after female rapper in Philly. Growing up as a foster kid to a drug-addict mother, Rocky developed a tough exterior. Rocky's style of rapping is characterized by its hardness and straightforwardness. Since releasing her first two mixtapes, "Fake Bitches Hero 1 and 2," this Philly lyricist has garnered support not only from Meek Mill but also from rappers such as Casanova, A$AP Ferg, and other industry veterans. She has even entertained offers from various labels, including Alamo Records. Motivation: Despite growing up in foster care and actively striving to keep her family and friends away from the streets, Rocky faces a significant challenge as her mom recently relapsed into drug use. Instagram: @fakebitcheshero
Who Camille – 31, Columbia, MD
WhoCamille the artist making waves with her versatile talent. Winning a nationwide jingle contest for Slutty Vegan in 2020 marked a turning point, leading to her becoming the first artist on Slutty Productions. Her smooth pen game even earned her a writer's credit on Flo Milli’s 2022 debut album.Opening for major names like Lil Baby and Moneybagg Yo, she has gained widespread attention, featured in outlets like HypeBae and Bedroom Barz with Sway. Her high class energy brings a different perspective to this industry. Motivation: As a suburban girl from Maryland, she stands on the fact that she didn't come from the struggle, challenging stereotypes and showcasing her ability to excel in rap despite different origins As WhoCamille gears up for highly anticipated projects and collaborations, she remains an artist on the rise, eager to share her musical talents with the world. Instagram: @whocamille Refresh Clip
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Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 209 of ‘Bosch: Legacy’. To revisit the previous episode, clickhere.
Normally, crime dramas follow a pretty standard formula for the end of the season. In that, our hero and the villain will duke it out in the finale, so that everyone gets to enjoy one epic tale that brings together the story in a satisfying manner. With justice for all, of course, and few crime dramas ever deviate from that. Because it is a tried-and-true formula, and it allows for so much storytelling and tension building to come forth in the penultimate episode. But once in a while you run into a crime drama that likes to defy convention, such as Bosch: Legacy on Amazon Freevee. For its next episode, ‘Escape Plan’, the penultimate of season two, felt more like a season finale. In large part, because the looming core battle between Honey Chandler and the United States of America was resolved in this particular tale. Because despite being carted off to jail and hammered by the FBI about her involvement in the Rogers case, she had a surprise waiting for the Feds. Courtesy of some wonderful sleight of hand trickery that she had been saving for just this moment. For when she brought the FBI into court to challenge what seemed to be a flawless search warrant, she used that trick to showcase that the FBI had improperly executed its warrant, which allowed for the case to be thrown out. Plus, a Bosch outright defeated Ellis in this story. But that was no easy task. In fact, for some time it also seemed as though the battle between Harry and Ellis would loom large. For we learned that Ellis was indeed hiding out inside of a houseboat and biding his time and pondering upon leaving or exacting revenge on the man that harmed his partner and ended his crooked career. And of course, Bosch was looking over his shoulder at every step. Simply because there was a real danger here, one he did not want to acknowledge and thankfully, Maddie stepped in and made sure he had LAPD officers watching his back at every step, and had it not been for that, disaster could have struck. Because eventually, Bosch was able to figure out where Ellis was hiding and decided to make a preemptive strike upon him. Which went, so-so. Because what Bosch was not prepared for was the fact that Ellis was his equal from a physical and fury standpoint. So, those two went toe-to-toe for some time aboard the boat that Ellis was hiding out upon and sadly, one wrong step on Bosch’s part, combined with that fury… had our hero within seconds of losing his life. But Maddie had a lock on his phone and was able to get to the marina with plenty of backup. Wherein she arrived just in time to save her father’s life by dropping Ellis like a bad habit. Putting an end to his reign of terror and well, in any other show that would be it. That would be the season finale and we’d move right along. But that means this unconventional show has a little bit more up its sleeve. Such as bringing the Parks case to its full conclusion. Because despite the bad guys being gone and witnesses being in place, the DA’s office did mention they want to press ahead and put the wrong man away, which did get buried behind the action here. Action that isn’t done yet, at least not when it comes to the FBI. Since we learned that Mo’s lady is a Federal Agent and she has all kinds of dirt to bring him down, the kind that might come back to bite our heroes, if the FBI get access to his files. Until next time. Watch ‘Bosch: Legacy’
Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Season Two Finale of ‘American Rust: Broken Justice’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
There are a great many things that go into creating a great season finale. For starters, the finale needs to be epic in nature, because who doesn’t love a good, jam-packed story that takes us on a ride? Plus, there has to be closure and character growth, in some form or fashion and above all, it should find a way to bring everything together. So, if there are lessons to be had the story should summarize them and if there were incredible plot threads that needed resolution those should be tied up. And hey, a cliffhanger never hurts either and well… what makes an amazing season finale top of mind today, is the sheer fact that American Rust: Broken Justice on Prime Video, offered one up to close out season two. For ‘Confessions’ was epic and tense and nature, thanks to Del’s hard push to solve the Landwill case and tie it all together to the bombing that happened at the start of the season. Not mention we saw growth and closure come into play in pretty and pretty ugly ways and everything else did indeed come together. All while this episode made it clear that all the strife that everyone went through this season was designed to answer an important question. In that, can we be redeemed when we’ve dabbled in the darkness and well, the answer to that question… came back with a maybe. Mainly because, some people died in this story and never found that redemption and also because lines were crossed once again and bad was imparted on the world. Much of which came out of the Landwill case. Because Del did indeed figure out that Russell was the problem and the murderer, they all sought, and he also figured out that Lee’s life was in trouble and that prompted him to open up to Steve to protect her and put his life on the line to redeem her. But alas, Russell killed her in cold blood, denying the redemption that Del sought and to make matters worse, Steve was killed in equally as chilly blood by Grace to protect her man. Robbing Steve of redemption as well and of course… leaving Grace and Del in the grey space they’ve operated for so long. If anything, the only joy to be found here was that Russell died and life moved on, with some quirks and sorrow of course, especially for Billy. Who found out far later that Lee was ready to marry him. Which left him in a unique place mentally, and while there was good news and change to come out of this madness, the lesson inherent was clear. In that, the maybe can be changed to a yes, if we do not follow the mistakes that others made in this tale. Because everyone here let their demons handle their decisions and their actions, and few were properly honest with one another in any form or fashion, and this is what they get. Which doesn’t necessarily make everyone here evil or dark people… just broken ones that are struggling to find the light, and all we can feel is pity for them and a strange sense of hope. For they wish to do right but seemingly cannot find their way and that brought forth, a satisfying tale for certain that truly, has us hungry for more. In large part, because the show is just so damn good and so well-acted. But also, because we would like to see the consequences of their actions and see if Billy was able to put Fisher down with impunity at the end of this tale. So, hopefully, we get a third season of this series and get to enjoy more fine acting and complicated stories from a universe that is as flawed as our world, and ironically, if not… then we’ve been privy to a story that properly reflects our world. Where resolution isn’t always possible and where people remain in the grey. But worries about season three aside, this was… a great finale and a great season of storytelling that held our attention from beginning to end, and truly showcased the flawed world we live in and the broken justice that surrounds us. Watch ‘American Rust: Broken Justice’
AMC Networks Releases Key Art & Official Trailer for the Fourth & Final Season of ‘Snowpiercer’6/20/2024 Written by John Edward Betancourt
There was a time, where trailers and teasers for television shows were pretty much nonexistent. In fact, all you really saw during prime time, were thirty second spots for ‘a very special episode’ of your favorite sitcoms. Wherein they dealt with some hot button topic at the time. But as time has rolled along and television has become more cinematic and epic in nature, that has changed. For now, we simply cannot wait to see the trailer for the new season of our favorite shows and dissect them and guess what is on the horizon in that season and well, the epic nature of TV show trailers is top of mind today, because AMC Networks dropped a downright incredible one.
For earlier today, AMC released the official trailer, key art, and updated details for the fourth and final season of Snowpiercer, and holy smokes… it is amazing. For it features hints of what has become of Andre, along with some new threats for Melanie to deal with and of course, a smidge of hope that perhaps this frozen world won’t stay frozen forever. But of course, rather than just read about the stuff that caught our eye at NTG, you need to see the majesty of this trailer for yourself and without further ado, here it is. To give you something to celebrate, dissect and chew upon as we count down the days to the final episodes of this amazing series. Until next time. ‘AMC Networks today released the official trailer and key art for the fourth and final season of Snowpiercer, premiering Sunday, July 21 at 9pm ET/PT exclusively on AMC and AMC+. The first three seasons of the Tomorrow Studios-produced thriller are now available to stream exclusively on AMC+. Set more than seven years after the world has become a frozen wasteland, Snowpiercer centers on the remnants of humanity who inhabit a perpetually moving train, with 1001 cars, that circles the globe. Class warfare, social injustice and the politics of survival play out in this riveting television adaptation based on the graphic novel series by Jacques Lob and Jean-Marc Rochette, and the film from Oscar®-winner Bong Joon Ho (Parasite). The action-packed finale of Season 3 left a split with Melanie Cavill (Jennifer Connelly) leading the Eternal Engine and those passengers who chose to stay aboard Snowpiercer for relative safety, and Andre Layton (Daveed Diggs) leading the others on Big Alice choosing to adventure to the unknown, outside world of New Eden. Snowpiercer stars Oscar® winner Jennifer Connelly, GRAMMY® and Tony® Award-winner Daveed Diggs, Sean Bean, Rowan Blanchard, Emmy® nominee Alison Wright, Mickey Sumner, Iddo Goldberg, Katie McGuinness, Tony® Award-winner and GRAMMY® nominee Lena Hall, Sam Otto, Chelsea Harris, Mike O’Malley, Roberto Urbina and Sheila Vand. Previously announced new cast members for Season 4 include Clark Gregg (Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., The Avengers, Thor) and Tony® Award-winner Michael Aronov (The Drop, The Americans, Operation Finale). Snowpiercer Season 4 is executive produced by Paul Zbyszewski (Lost, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D, Helstrom), Christoph Schrewe; Marty Adelstein, Becky Clements and Alissa Bachner through Tomorrow Studios; Matthew O’Connor, Ben Rosenblatt and Scott Derrickson, along with the original film’s producers Bong Joon Ho, Miky Lee, Jinnie Choi, Park Chan-wook, Lee Tae-hun and Dooho Choi. The show is produced by Tomorrow Studios (an ITV Studios partner) along with CJ Entertainment. ITV Studios distributes Snowpiercer internationally.’ Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 204 of ‘We Are Lady Parts’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
One particular aspect of chasing one’s dream that we don’t talk about much in this life, is the sheer fact that there comes a point… where one must decide if their dream is right for them. Because while we are taught to follow our dreams and go for whatever calls to our heart, sometimes… it sends us down the wrong path. Wherein we learn the hard way that we are not physically cut out to be an NFL Quarterback, even though we wanted to be. Or that we might not have the chops to be a writer or an actor, and well… in order to properly step away from that dream without feeling as though we failed… we have to decide to let it go and believe it or not, there is a simple process to allow for that to happen. In that, we simply need to stop chasing our dream for a hot minute and look at it objectively. For that will tell us if we have the arm to throw it deep to a star receiver or if we can learn those lines or write them and if we learn that we cannot… we can step away clean. Or at least that’s the hope, because it may it still hurt. But on the flip side, this is also quite beneficial. Because if we step away and crave our dream, and it haunts us and continues to call to us, then we can stick with it and fight harder to have what we want and crave and well, this process is top of mind today, simply because it was explored in stunning detail in the next episode of, We Are Lady Parts, on Peacock. A feat that ‘Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood’ accomplished by having the band take a break and ponder upon if this was the path they wanted. Because the photoshoot was a disaster, and they were all in sour places so… it was best to just take a beat and think. Think about if this was the path they wanted and if it was right for them and that led, to some powerful moments. The kind that saw everyone think deeply upon the impact the band had upon them and whether or not they craved it. Plus, it gave them time to reflect upon their personal lives as well, and the impact the band had upon that, and well, it turned out that this time away was useful and properly explored how time away can help us double down and go for it. Since proceeding was the consensus. But it also did explore how sometimes… reflection prompts us to step away and that came forth via a powerful decision and revelation. For Saira did indeed explore signing with Clarice’s firm and well, she learned that doing so would come at a cost. Specifically, Taz. Because they would have to leave her behind to do this and make Lady Parts into what they wanted and well, shockingly, Taz went along with the plan. For her time away informed her, her dream of being a manager wasn’t going to come to fruition in the manner the band needed. So, she let Lady Parts leave her behind to be the bastion of light she knew it could be. Granted, that still hurt because of those deep personal ties, but it spoke to that reflection none the less. In fact, the whole episode did a phenomenal job of exploring this concept and how it really works and how we should talk about it more. Because we need to know if we are on the right path, if this is where we belong, and this process helps greatly with that and really helps to focus a dream or end it. Because sadly, dreams do die in this world, but if for the right reasons… one can live with that. And well, now that we’ve reached the end of this powerful tale, we can see what becomes of the band now that they have fresh representation with some reach, and now that they are willing to do what must be done to bring Lady Parts into its next chapter. Until next time. Watch ‘We Are Lady Parts’
Written by John Edward Betancourt One thing that fans of science fiction can agree upon, is that the hit series, Orphan Black, was quite revolutionary in nature. After all, it was one of the first stories to ask quite the ‘what if?’ question. In that, what would happen if cloning were a thing? Which brought forth multiple seasons of powerful storytelling that managed to use that question to not only ponder deeply upon the status and standing of science in our modern world, but also pondered upon science’s ability to move quicker than we can process and of course… the need for humanity to use it responsibly. Not to mention, the show also used Tatiana Maslany’s endless skills as an actor to explore so much about the human condition. For the show also pondered upon how we become who we become in life. All of which made for fine science fiction, the kind that really was revolutionary in its depth, and it was one that we as fans, wondered if it would continue or not. For Pandora’s Box was indeed opened in that tale and there was the chance that more clones could join the Clone Club but clearly, a fast follow up was not the way to do this. It needed time to percolate, and the right story needed to be told and well, it just so happens that the right one has arrived. For Sunday will see the arrival of Orphan Black: Echoes on AMC and AMC+, and this follow-up is indeed the second chapter we’ve been eagerly waiting for. One that stays true to what the original put forth while forging an incredible new path for the franchise, and one way that it accomplishes that is through a refreshing plot. One that takes place decades after the original show to introduce us to a world where mankind is still chugging along, and where organs are now being printed on a regular and cellular basis and of course… where a woman named Lucy awakens with no memory of her former life. And to complicate matters further, she has come to in a facility far from the city. One that is home to another iteration of her, which informs her that trouble surrounds her, and she quickly makes her way out into the world to forge her own path. One that is of course, disturbed by individuals that have been looking for her, and well, that puts her on quite the collision course with all kinds of unsettling truths. Especially after she discovers that she’s not the only Lucy, active in the world, and that motivates her to do whatever it takes to learn why she was brought into this world and learn of the past she cannot recall. Which is the perfect plot to reintroduce us into this world, one that really is quite engaging. For Lucy is indeed a deeply different and deeply dynamic character who has her own unique path and intriguing wants, and there’s a lot to be said from a writing standpoint regarding a character that is eager to find themselves. In fact, the writing is indeed top notch here, allowing for the episodes to be filled with layers and commentary regarding science and the human condition, and of course… it gives life to a mystery that is compelling and powerful and keeps you engaged. Not to mention, those aforementioned echoes are important since there is connective tissue between Orphan Black and this series. Which is a real treat to see play out and will definitely, please fans of the original show, no problem. However, while all of those elements are enough to carry this series, it still has more wonders to share with us. For it also features a magnificent cast and some utterly incredible acting. With Krysten Ritter (Lucy) leading the charge in such matters, courtesy of a performance that truly helps to immerse us in Lucy’s plight and this brave new world and well, all of these elements combine to bring us, a fantastic science fiction series. For this one hits all the right notes and gives us a compelling story that holds a bright flame to the show that came before it, and thankfully we don’t have to wait all that much longer to enjoy this intelligent and engaging series. For Sunday, June 23rd will see Orphan Black: Echoes premiere after Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire, and we here at NTG cannot wait for you to return to the Clone Club and enjoy this thrilling new chapter in the saga. Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 403 of ‘The Boys’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
When we last settled in to discuss the incredible new season of the hit Prime Video series, The Boys, we made mention of the fact that the last episode, made sure to offer up some unique and fascinating character moments. Because it is the characters and their journeys that pulled us into the show in the first place and truly, the mark of a great show is that it never loses sight of its roots. Which is why the next episode of the show is of note, because it was a true return to said roots. Since ‘We’ll Keep the Red Flag Flying Here’ was all about the characters and their need to face the consequences of the choices they’ve made throughout the years and face their past in general. Which brought about a bevy of powerful storylines. The kind that saw Frenchie and Kimiko work to put their painful past to bed. Which for Frenchie meant getting as high as a kite to figure out what the hell to do with Colin and how best to break the news to him, which he… which he failed at… as we sometimes do at solving our problems in the immediate and while Kimiko found catharsis in ripping open the skulls of the very people who harmed her, she too… didn’t get what she needed. For we came to learn she has more secrets about her life, the kind she wanted to keep that way and well, the point of these missteps were likely to point out, that the beginning of solving the complex puzzles of our sordid pasts is always this messy. For it takes baby steps to find confidence to finally put it to rest. Of course, that duo weren’t the only ones that had to face days gone by. For Annie came to realize that her path to heroism was littered with sorrow and pain. For she and Firecracker had a bit of a showdown in this tale at Vought Tower, since Firecracker and Sage joined the Seven, and well… Annie came to learn that her cruelty ages ago, helped to create Firecracker. For the insults and bullying that Annie imparted upon her, hardened her soul and that left Annie in a deeply thoughtful state. Plus, we also saw Hughie, finally have it out with his mother in a healthy manner. Since he finally asked her why she abandoned the family all those years ago, and the answers he received gave him pause and reminded him… that sometimes there are two sides to a story, and we should take the time to hear it.
However, the centerpiece story here regarding the past was handled via Butcher. Who was eager to capture Ryan and turn him into an asset to bring down Homelander. In fact, he was ready to drug him to turn him. But a little quality time with Ryan, free from agenda or nonsense allowed for Billy to bond with who he saw as his boy and have an honest talk about their divide and why it existed, and that let Billy be Billy for once and be honest along the way as he reflected on a life he truly felt was going to end in a hollow nature. Which made for a powerful moment of reflection for Billy, and yet… reflections didn’t end there. Because despite that being the centerpiece story, we even saw the Seven ponder upon the past and what brought them here and speaking of the Seven… the show did still find a way to inject some of the commentary it’s featured this year.
Since there were scenes that featured Trump-like rallies, and rhetoric spewing and the media manipulation that MAGA is known for at the moment. To the point where we even enjoyed a delicious send up of the nonsensical ‘War on Christmas’ the right invented to be angry about something, via snippets of Vought on Ice rehearsals. All of which served to remind us that the circus, and the showmanship, while stupid and annoying, exists to serve a purpose. To frenzy up the marginalized to stand with their noisy leaders regardless of what they want to enact. Which in this story, is a plan that resembles Project 2025, wherein a police state ruled over by Supes can exist. One led by none other than Homelander. A plan that thankfully, might not survive. In part because there are fractures in the Seven, including Ashley since she no longer knows where her loyalties lie with Sage taking over the company. And of course, A-Train continues to surprise, and the Boys do have evidence now of the plan. Which sets the stage for more big moments and hopefully some solves on how we put an end to MAGA in our world. But while we wait and see, we can celebrate one intimate and powerful episode. One that truly took us on a powerful journey through the pain of these individuals and showcased the work they’re putting in to heal. So that when the day comes when Homelander and his movement is defeated, they can enjoy real peace and all that life has to offer. Until next time. Watch ‘The Boys’
Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 406 of ‘Trying’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
Ask any parent what they would do to be admired by their children or how far they would go to protect them, and you’ll get back the same answer… anything. Which is of course, the right answer, because parents should indeed go above and beyond to be admired by their kids since they are the first role models’ children encounter and they should absolutely work to protect them. But while that is a lovely answer that every parent hopes to live up to, the truth is, they simply cannot. For anything is a huge ask to those questions. In part because parents, are human, and will make mistakes along the way and of course… there are acts that they cannot take part in to properly protect their little ones through and through. Which means, that the best way to handle those specific questions, is to do anything within reason. So that parents can find a feasible way to elicit pride or protect their babies, and well… it just so happens that how one does that was explored in this week’s episode of Trying on Apple TV+. That is, after the show fooled us into thinking that ‘Airport Run’ was another day in the life episode. Since we saw Vic ponder upon life without him in the mix in a very bittersweet storyline for him, and where we also saw Jason and Nikki take part in an adoption question and answer session with old foes at their side. Not to mention, we saw Scott ponder upon the fact he might not be able to complete his trip since he was so out of shape and not mentally prepared for it. All of which, was pretty standard stuff for this show. But well, Scott’s journey made it clear, that this episode was going to go far deeper than expected. Because while Scott was worried that he would fail at his mission and maintain his standing as a nobody, little Stevie surprised him to think otherwise. For a trip to pick her up from school turned Scott’s world upside down. For Stevie told everyone at school about what her daddy was up to, and everyone saw him as a hero, a real champion for the future and well… that motivated Scott to buckle down and train to make this happen. Which informed the viewer that sometimes… the only feasible option to be admired by our children… is to be the person they see us to be and use that to grow as individuals since we saw a fundamental change in Scott here. Meanwhile, Jason and Nikki took the time to explore how best to protect their baby Princess from real emotional harm. Because she finally figured out where her mother was living, and that of course prompted her to just… go for it. Do what must be done to meet her and ask her the big questions, and that included buying a plane ticket and heading to the airport. But she was too young to know how to navigate all that, and of course, Jason and Nikki found out and made their way there to comfort her and have an honest talk and, in the process, Nikki came to realize, her baby needed closure. But to do it on her own would be hard and likely devastating. So, in order to give Princess what she needed, she opted to go to Spain and be the one to talk to Kat, to get those answers and shield Princess from the hardest part of this journey. Which was a beautiful act to see take place and it was one that taught us… this is how ‘anything’ works regarding those age-old questions. Because it takes a real parent to bear the brunt of a child’s pain and worries and perhaps be the bearer of bad news and of course… it takes a real hero to risk everything to bask in that pride and inspire a child and that made… for one beautiful story. One that really was moving and tear inducing because it just spoke… to the wonder of family. To the power of the journey of parenthood and the majesty of truly sacrificing for our family. For that is what makes parents great and beloved and that is what we witnessed here, and it will be interesting to see what comes next for Scott and Nikki, now that they’ve decided to be the hero and carry the burden. Until next time. Watch ‘Trying’
Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Four of ‘The Acolyte’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
Something that is genuinely fascinating about stories that revolve around the evil doers in the world, or in the case of today’s recap… a galaxy far, far away, is how those stories often showcase evil’s efforts to sow division and chaos in any way possible… but rarely ponder upon why. For that is something that is important and relevant and deeply engaging, yet those tales have other actions for us to focus upon and ponder upon since evil does a lot of rotten things, and of course the focus does need to be upon the story itself, since there are important moments to get through and big moments abound. But we should in fact, give the desire evil harbors to bring about pain and suffering and division amongst good people more weight. Because in the end, that really is how evil wins the day in every way imaginable. For it allows for evil individuals to inspire hate and fear in others and use that hate and fear to rip lives and societies to pieces with minimal effort. For truly, united we stand and divided we fall and well… never was this more evident than during this week’s episode of The Acolyte on Disney+. For ‘Day’ explored evil’s need for division and how concerned it will become… when that division fails. A feat this episode accomplished by way of a grand reunion of sorts on Khofar. For the Jedi were indeed concerned about the fate of Master Kelnacca and decided that Sol was to take Osha and a team of Jedi there to find Mae before a dark fate befell the Wookie Jedi Master. Of course, Mae and Qimir were there and were quick to dive into the strange forests in this world, to find their target and well… that is when the show’s exploration of its central theme took place. For as Mae and Qimir hunted, the Jedi arrived and the twins of this era, began to ponder upon so much. Specifically, what they missed out upon by being apart for so long and what might happen if they were to commit to good and one another again. Which made Qimir nervous and concerned about the mission. Because Mae spoke loudly to just turning herself in to be near her sister and forgetting about the mission of her Master in the process. And well, that scared her Master to no end and made them realize that love and unity would stall the problems they were working to create. Which brought forth, quite the unique finale of this tale. Wherein we saw Mae string up Qimir to follow through with her plan to reunite and where… Master Kelnacca did not survive the day. For the Master arrived and wiped him out before exposing that frightening tooth filled mask and the raw power they harbor to the Jedi. A move that leaves us wondering who will survive the hateful machinations of what has to be a Sith Lord. But what mattered more here, was that this Darkside user, was so afraid that love and unity would heal Mae and Osha and ruin their plans… that they were willing to be seen and get their hands dirty to sow fear and disruption. Because unity destroys evil no problem and unity ruins this power and that is why stories should explore this more often. Because that is a powerful message of vigilance in trying times such as these, one that everyone needs to be reminded of and that added to the wonder, of a very unique episode. One that also raised more questions in our minds. Such as whether or not the twins are in fact a Force Dyad, since the knowledge of one another being alive awakened powers within each of them. And of course, we would be foolish to not ponder upon whether or not… Qimir is the Master in question. Since the way he handled questions about the Master and the way he spoke, hints at the possibility Qimir and the Dark Lord are one in the same. But of course, only time will tell, and, in the meantime, we can applaud one smart and surprising tale that set the stage for grand conflict in the galaxy. Until next time. Watch ‘The Acolyte’
Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Season Four Premiere of ‘My Life Is Murder’. To revisit the Season Three Finale, click here.
One particular aspect of crime dramas that is genuinely fascinating, is how so many of them… exclude certain emotional motivations for crime. As though only anger and passion can lead to murder, or greed for that matter as well. When in fact, there are a bevy of emotions that will motivate people to commit crimes and cross the ultimate line and sometimes… those emotions are supremely petty in nature. For there are people that will stab, out of jealousy or because their ego is bruised. It just takes the right moment and the right circumstances for someone to let petty take control, as evidenced by the season four premiere of My Life Is Murder on Acorn TV. For ‘To Dye For’ saw Alexa Crowe deal with a case that featured just that, but it took some serious digging to uncover that truth. In fact, at first, Alexa did not even want to take the case that was sent her way. Because a socialite, named Lulu, dying by drinking so much champagne that it got into her lungs, did not seem like foul play. But Harry made some good points about how this death was quite suspicious in nature and that was enough to get Alexa and Madison on the case, wherein… they immediately looked for the usual motivations and desires for murder. Such as greed since Lulu left her estate to a cat instead of her new bestie. Which proved to be a dead end since said bestie had no machinations upon the fortune in question, and deeper digging on crimes of passion or revenge went nowhere as well. Because the trail of clues brought them to a hair salon run by a man named Lawrence, and well… while he and his top hairdresser were shady at times, neither were involved with her, nor did either of them seem capable of murder. In fact, it turned out that the top dog was friends with Lulu and was thinking about opening up a salon of his own with Lulu’s funds and Lawrence just seemed interested in selling gossip, since he had a penchant for selling videos of what his clients had to say about their lives to the local gossip rag, which was also run by the bestie in question. But eventually, it became apparent that the devil was in the petty details. And the closer Alexa and Madison looked at the case, the more they realized… that the business union on the horizon, combined with the hidden surveillance in the salon, was something of a problem. Because it allowed for Lawrence to learn that his best hairdresser and client were leaving, and it informed him that he would have legitimate competition up the road. And well, a big ego combined with a tinge of jealousy and worry about having that ego bruised was enough to prompt Lawrence to put together a petty and pathetic, albeit successful plan… to end Lulu’s life. All of which spoke to how there are reasons that people kill, that are not flashy or epic in nature. There are some reasons that are just plain sad, and downright pitiful, and come forth when the person is just that disgusting. Because it takes a gross individual to follow the path that Lawrence did here. Which in turn gave rise, to an amazing season premiere of this show. One that stays true to the kinds of cases that Alexa has always taken on and gave the audience plenty to chew upon along the way. Because this premiere was filled to the brim with quality twists and turns that kept us guessing, and well… it is just delightful to have this series back on the air and it will be amazing to see what other incredible cases await Alexa and her team as season four rolls along. Until next time. Watch ‘My Life Is Murder’
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