Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Five of ‘Moonhaven’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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Over the course of the past few weeks, our discussions and analysis revolving around the AMC+ series, Moonhaven, has focused heavily on the nature of the human condition and what it might take to change or remove our darker tendencies and it makes sense as to why that’s been a focus of these recaps. For this series has been a masterclass in examining those two concepts, allowing for us to pour over every little detail and thought and question and answer that this series has taken the time to focus upon. For this show really does offer a comprehensive look at what mankind might need to do to finally remove itself from the ugly behaviors it exhibits, and the cycles it creates, if we want to find the lasting peace that so many of us crave. 
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But while we’ve been privy to some fascinating concepts regarding how we grow as species, this series has also excelled at world-building and storytelling. For this is a dynamic science fiction story through and through, one that features a colony on the moon and artificial intelligence technologies we only dream of right now. Not to mention, the story itself has also put forth some compelling concepts that we’ve been eager to see develop, since the flower that set this in motion is clearly something significant and powerful and of course… discussions regarding alien civilizations that might be interested in the show’s AI… are fascinating indeed. But alas, those latter elements have gone the wayside over the analysis of the human condition, at least that is… until this week’s tale.

For ‘Dreadfeel’ is a story that did something quite surprising. In that, its heavier analysis on the human condition was more or less set aside for a change so that the show could indeed focus upon those storytelling concepts and their meaning and purpose, and it accomplished that feat, first by having Arlo not only save the flower from Tom in a supremely unique manner, but by having him work with the Envoy to uncover its secrets. Because clearly, it was pointing everyone toward something on the moon and that motivated the Envoy to take a team out with Arlo to see what that something might be and well… that led to a unique mystery as well. Since it brought them outside of the habitable zone toward that mysterious tree that Bella spotted a little while back.

As it turned out, that tree was indeed something quite special. For it wasn’t a traditional tree in the slightest. For it was able to illuminate itself in a stunning manner and anyone who touched it, came to learn a great deal about their past and their family line. Which was a strange revelation that clearly required more research, but that was not meant to be in this tale. For Tom arrived to cause trouble and seize control of the flower and through wanton bloodlust, he did just that. Seemingly leaving only one survivor from this expedition, Blu… who eventually reunited with Paul and Bella after they completed their fascinating leg of this wild journey. For while mysteries about the secrets of the flower were being uncovered, Bella and Paul were in the midst of one potentially historical discovery.
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For they were tasked in this tale to bring Maite back to the Glade to complete the bridge and well… that meant that Bella and Paul were forced to go into the more volatile regions of the moon, where IO was able to play with the physical makeup of the moon colony. Which meant that troubles potentially awaited them in this wilderness, but surprisingly… they only found more mooners. The kind that just wanted away from the hustle and bustle of the Glade, which was surprising for certain and eventually… they found Maite. Who continued to spout the belief that there were aliens on the moon and well… she might be telling the truth. For after plunging to her apparent death in an effort to prove the aliens had her back, some kind of otherworldly being appeared to reaffirm the reality that there was more at work on the moon here than humanity’s usual problems.

Which makes this, quite the surprising tale for certain. For it truly seemed as though the story was barreling toward humanity’s latest fight, one taking place amongst the stars. But instead, this might be a first contact story, one where perhaps the unifying moment for all of humanity would involve coming to understand that we are not alone in the universe. But what matters more here, is that this episode did a phenomenal job of setting the stage for one epic season finale. For now, battle lines are drawn on the moon, evil is fighting hard and good might be in jeopardy and of course… first contact with an alien species might come to fruition. Which also makes this, a fantastic tale as well, one that really did a great job of moving the plot along in an organic manner so the story isn’t rushed to a conclusion and it did so in such a compelling manner, that we will all be counting down the minutes… until next week’s finale. Until then.  

It is definitely safe to say that the television network STARZ is utterly slaying it with their programming. After all, the network is home to the dynamic and thrilling Power Universe, and it often leads the way in bold programming that is diverse in nature and features underrepresented voices. Plus, you can find some powerful documentaries here, and their shows often feature top-tier talent, allowing for quality performances to entertain across the board. But of the many things that STARZ excels at, there is one particular type of story that they are well-known for.

Specifically, historical dramas. For the network has offered up a bevy of quality shows that explore our past and several of them have featured some significant members of royalty, with the Tudor drama, Becoming Elizabeth being the most recent addition to that roster and there is more to come. For earlier today, STARZ released the trailer and key art for the upcoming series, The Serpent Queen. A series that will star the stunningly talented Samantha Morton as Queen Catherine de Medici of France, a ruler that was well-known for her ruthless and brutal nature and well, if this trailer is any indication of what’s to come… we are going to be treated to an incredible series.

One that will captivate and drop jaws, and well… for proof… then no look no further than that very trailer. So, without further ado, here is that trailer and more information regarding the show as well, courtesy of STARZ.

‘STARZ released today the trailer and key art for the wicked new drama series “The Serpent Queen” set to premiere on Sunday, September 11. The new series stars Golden Globe® winner, two-time Academy Award® and two-time BAFTA Award-nominated actress,Samantha Morton (Minority Report, "Harlots," "The Walking Dead"), as the nefarious Catherine de Medici, who, against all odds, became one of the most powerful and longest-serving rulers in French history.
 
“The Serpent Queen” premieres Sunday, September 11 at midnight on the STARZ app, all STARZ streaming and on-demand platforms andinternationally on the STARZPLAY premium streaming platform across all territories. On linear, it will debut on STARZ at 8:00 ET/PT in the U.S. and Canada.
 
A historical drama with an edge, “The Serpent Queen” puts a contemporary spin on conventional storytelling to tell the tale of Catherine de Medici’s (Morton) rise to power. In the series premiere, “Medici Bitch,” Catherine’s tale unfolds through flashbacks as she defends her actions and imparts the lessons she’s learned to her new servant confident, Rahima (Sennia Nanua, The Girl with All the Gifts, Frankie). At 14, the young, orphaned Catherine (Liv Hill, “Three Girls,” Jellyfish) marries into the 16th-century French court. Despite her commoner status, her uncle Pope Clement (Charles Dance, “Game of Thrones,” “The Crown”), has negotiated a large dowry and a geopolitical alliance in return for the union, and with it comes the expectation of many heirs. However, on her wedding night, Catherine learns that her new husband is in love with Diane de Poitiers (Ludivine Sagnier, “Lupin,” “The Young Pope”), a beautiful lady-in-waiting twice his age. 
 
With her future suddenly uncertain and with little hope of conceiving, Catherine must quickly learn who she can trust - both within her personal entourage of courtiers and the members of the royal court - while outmaneuvering anyone who underestimates her determination to survive at any cost. 
 
The series also stars Colm Meaney (“Star Trek: Deep Space Nine,” Tolkien), Kiruna Stamell (“The New Pope,” Moulin Rouge!), Barry Atsma (The Hitman’s Bodyguard, “Bad Banks”), Alex Heath (“Suspicion,” Boiling Point), Amrita Acharia (“Game of Thrones,” “The Good Karma Hospital”), Enzo Cilenti, (Free Fire, “The Last Tycoon”), Antonia Clarke (Anna, Magic in the Moonlight), Adam Garcia (Coyote Ugly, Murder on the Orient Express), Beth Goddard (“Manhunt,” “Des”), Raza Jaffrey (“Homeland,” “Code Black”), Ray Panthaki (“Away,” Colette), Nicholas Burns (Emma, “Harlots”), Danny Kirrane (Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales, “Don’t Forget the Driver”), and Rupert Everett (My Best Friend’s Wedding, “Adult Material”).
 
"The Serpent Queen" is based on the book Catherine de Medici: Renaissance Queen of France by Leonie Frieda and is from writer and executive producer Justin Haythe (Revolutionary Road, Red Sparrow, The Lone Ranger). Stacie Passon (“Transparent,” “Dickinson,” “Billions”) directs multiple episodes, including the premiere episode and serves as executive producer. The series is executive produced by Francis Lawrence (The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, The Hunger Games: Mockingjay, The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2) and Erwin Stoff (The Matrix, 13 Hours, Edge of Tomorrow). The eight-episode series is produced for STARZ by Lionsgate Television and 3 Arts Entertainment. 
 
Follow “The Serpent Queen” on Social
Twitter: @serpentqueen
Instagram: @theserpentqueen
Facebook: @theserpentqueenstarz
Join the conversation with #TheSerpentQueen and #STARZ

About STARZ 
STARZ (www.starz.com), a Lionsgate company, is a leading global media streaming platform committed to delivering premium content that amplifies narratives by, about and for women and underrepresented audiences. STARZ is home to the highly-rated and first-of-its-kind STARZ app that offers the ability to stream or download STARZ premium content, as well as the flagship domestic STARZ® service, including STARZ ENCORE, 17 premium pay TV channels, and the associated on-demand and online services. In 2018, STARZ launched its STARZPLAY international premium streaming platform to provide subscribers access to the “best of global SVOD.” STARZPLAY, coupled with its STARZPLAY ARABIA joint venture, has expanded its global footprint into more than 60 countries throughout Europe and Latin America along with Canada, Japan, India and Indonesia. STARZ and STARZPLAY are available across digital OTT platforms and multichannel video distributors, including cable operators, satellite television providers, and telecommunications companies around the world. In February 2021, STARZ launched #TakeTheLead, a multi-faceted and innovative inclusion initiative expanding its existing efforts to improve representation on screen, behind the camera and throughout the company.
 
About Lionsgate 
Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF.A, LGF.B) encompasses world-class motion picture and television studio operations aligned with the STARZ premium global subscription platform to bring a unique and varied portfolio of entertainment to consumers around the world.  The Company’s film, television, subscription and location-based entertainment businesses are backed by a 17,000-title library and a valuable collection of iconic film and television franchises. A digital age company driven by its entrepreneurial culture and commitment to innovation, the Lionsgate brand is synonymous with bold, original, relatable entertainment for audiences worldwide. 
 
About 3 Arts Entertainment
3 Arts Entertainment is a talent/literary management and production company, with 26 years of experience. We have offices in Beverly Hills and New York and have clients in the TV and Film Lit world, acting world, hosting world, branded areas, digital media and more. 3 Arts has produced hit films such as The Matrix, Austin Powers: Thy Spy Who Shagged Me, The Devil’s Advocate, Edge of Tomorrow and 13 Hours and more. We currently executive produce over 30 shows on the air. Some of our series include: “Julia,” “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia,” “Master of None,” “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt,” “Insecure,” and “Brooklyn Nine-Nine.”’

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the finale of ‘Chloe’. To revisit the previous episode, click here. Also, this article features discussions on domestic violence, which may be triggering to some individuals.
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Whether we like to admit it or not, all of us are going to make mistakes and do something stupid things in this life. The kind that will make us feel sheepish and can potentially harm other people. Because that’s just how mistakes go and when that happens… we immediately embark upon a unique quest. One that will grant us redemption/forgiveness. Plus, a sense of wholeness again, especially when our mistake causes that great harm and well… our quest for that kind of salvation is one that isn’t easy. Because we are often aware of what we’ve done, and the impact of our actions, and we genuinely worry that our attempts to sew wounds back together will fail or be met with severe resistance and anger, and we are right to harbor those worries.

For sometimes, the acts we partake in, aren’t forgivable or fixable and all we can do is move on and learn and well… this particular scenario is top of mind today, simply because it served as the focal journey for Becky Green in the finale of Chloe on Prime Video. For when we catch up with Becky here, she knows full well that the walls are closing in on her and that it is only a matter of time before she is exposed as a fraud. Which motivated her to prepare an exit strategy with Josh, so she could escape post haste and regroup while she hid, and well, none of that went according to plan. For on the day of her escape, the truth about Sasha was revealed to the world, and that of course… put her in a tailspin. One where she was so lost, and so distraught, and so guilty over her actions that Becky decided perhaps… there was a better way. 

In that, perhaps the time had come to not only own up to her own faults and mistakes, but to try and do something to set her actions right and that in turn motivated her to do take part in some bold acts. In that, she abandoned the escape route and faced the horrors of her own mess head-on, and her past for that matter as well. Which allowed for her to finally feel the pain and anguish she’d been hiding away for years on end and chase a new lead regarding Chloe. Because knowing what she knew about Elliott now… she pondered upon the real possibility that he might have killed his wife because she didn’t give him the awe and obedience that he expected from women. And well… while there was no smoking gun to be found regarding such an act, her push to find out more about why Chloe wanted to leave, did bring about an opportunity to do some good in the world.

For a return ‘home’ featured another unsettling conversation between Becky and Elliott. One where he once again demanded control over her and answers and whatever else would satisfy his fragile and annoying ego. Which Becky refused to provide him with and that brought her into a violent moment with Elliott. Where he made an attempt at silencing Becky for good. Giving her the answers, she needed but also giving her something to post to Instagram, via Chloe’s phone and account, thanks to her hitting the record button at the right time. Allowing for the world to see the true Elliott, all while forcing his vapid inner circle to ponder upon their own lies and the façade they all shared in and well… her bold action here, led to quite the somber ending. One where Becky was left destitute and broken from the lies, she told and the world she created, and without salvation for doing her good act.

That allowed for this finale to send quite a few messages our way. First of course, it hammered home the reality that redemption and forgiveness isn’t always possible. Plus, Becky finally came to learn the dangers of living within the fantasy rather than working on oneself and well… that’s a dark way to bring this story to a close, but it is the proper ending for certain. Because there was never anything pretty about this journey. It was always about the darker aspects of the human condition and the ugly we choose to indulge in. So, there could not be a happy ending here, not when a person who made poor and selfish decisions settled into a fantasy filled with emotionally hideous and selfish people. But it thankfully teaches us a great deal about fantasy versus reality and the worth of putting in the work to fix ourselves and our lives and those lessons… made this an incredibly worthwhile journey. One that serves as a cautionary tale of sorts for anyone else looking to escape a life… that only they can fix.  

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Five of ‘The Terminal List’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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One particular question that we will all ponder upon at some point or another in our lives… is how far we are willing to go to exact revenge upon someone that wronged us. Because there will come a day when someone goes the extra mile to harm us, and they will hurt us deeply in the process and we are so distraught and angry from that act… that we harbor some ugly thoughts for certain. But eventually, the anger fades and logic prevails, and we move on, without every committing to that kind of wanton darkness. But the potential of what that moment could entail always piques our curiosity, to the point where fiction is happy to explore what would happen if logic and time away from the situation didn’t prevail and that’s a scenario of note today, because it was explored in the next episode of The Terminal List.

For ‘Disruption’ is an episode that saw Lieutenant Commander James Reece swing by San Francisco to keep an eye on Capstone Industries. To figure out how Steven Horn was operating in his day and how easy it might be to get to him. Which as it turned out, would take a little work. For he always traveled in an armed convoy, and he was rarely out in the open where he could be attacked. Plus, the feds were swarming the building as well… giving Reece pause as he worked to figure out how to exact revenge upon ol’ Steve. However, while he pondered upon that, some fascinating dominos began to fall. For Steve was eager to lock up the deal that Saul initiated a few episodes ago, so Capstone could begin to mass produce with that company and well… the ugly nature of this deal and Kelly’s pressing, led to some truths at last.

In that, RD4895 was designed to be an anti-PTSD drug, where memories would be wiped, and which clearly wasn’t safe for use on humans. To the point where Horn and his company offered up mass payouts in order to cover its failure and they tried to wipe the failure's evidence away, so that Steve could just send it out into the field regardless, because… that's the kind of jackass he is, and well, this discovery and the discovery of those payouts and whom they went to… is what brought about the revenge exploration. Because once Reece found out all the details, he was basically at a crossroads. One where he could let Kelly publish this info and bring everyone down in the press and through the courts… or where he could handle his on his own and enjoy the personal satisfaction of righting this wrong himself. But sadly… after teaching one group of bad guys a lesson, and with nothing left to lose, Reece decided it was best to handle this personally.

Which brought forth, a stunning finale to this tale. Wherein Reece built a precision bomb and assembled an intricate plan to teach Steve Horn a final lesson. One that Reece could have showed some measure of mercy with, especially when Kelly got too close to Horn on his way to his convoy, since that put her at risk. But with no filters or barriers left in his mind, Reece wasn’t concerned about her safety or anyone else’s. He just wanted to feel the impure and unfulfilling/temporary satisfaction that revenge brings to the table… and he detonated that bomb. Sending Kelly flying and injuring her before taunting Steve Horn face to face before ending his life and heading off into the night. Making it clear that a true commitment to that level of revenge, will always end in gory and ugly disaster and what’s truly scary about this moment… is that Horn’s death, will not serve as the end of Reece’s revenge tour.

Because now he has so many other names of people that profited from this drug and the death of his family, and he is so broken and so distraught and eager to find peace through anger, that nothing is going to stop him from making all those people pay. Which makes James quite terrifying at the moment, and something of a fallen hero as well. For he really appears to be on a collision course with disaster and his legacy could be tarnished by way of his ugly actions and that might make this story… something of grand tragedy in this end. But while we wait to see how everything plays out beyond this point, we can bask in the majesty of another powerful tale. One that really hammered home the dangers of letting revenge consume us and it moved this plot forward in a dynamic manner, one so compelling… that we simply must continue the journey post haste, to see what surprises and other dark moments await us. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Part One of ‘Three Families’. Also, this article contains discussions on abortion and abortion rights, which may be triggering to some individuals.
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It is definitely safe to say, that we are living in some painfully precarious times right now when it comes to fundamental human rights. For the dark power of racism is back on the rise, Americans voting rights are hanging in the balance thanks to the power grab of a dying party and their outdated ideologies, and women’s rights are also in danger right now. For there continues to be a debate about whether or not a woman has any autonomy over her body, when there shouldn’t be… because what a woman does with her body is her choice. But that isn’t stopping various religious groups and other extremists to try and step in and remove that right by any means necessary. Which for a majority of them, involves going after a woman’s right to choose to have an abortion. Since that is quite the easy target, one that can be seen as righteous under the guise of religion and somehow… murder, and sadly, they’re finding success in their efforts as evidenced by the Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe v. Wade.

If anything, this sudden surge to remove fundamental rights for women, does leave all of us wondering… how we change this horrible course and perhaps open some minds to help people understand the need for such a choice to be available to women and that is why the Sundance Now series, Three Families, is so important to the conversation right now. For this is a story that takes the time to show people that don’t understand, why the right to choose is critical. Because it isn’t about the bullshit talking points, the ‘pro-lifers’ send our way, it’s about the fact that a woman isn’t a breeding vessel and doesn’t have to be obligated to commit to rearing a child. It’s about the reality that sometimes a pregnancy is unwanted or there’s danger to the mother or the child and well… this series makes those two particular points quite clear in its opening chapter by introducing us to a pair of families dealing with those issues in Ireland not that long ago, when their abortion laws were as draconian as it gets. 

One family, composed of Theresa, Orla and Mark, deal with that first issue. For one fine day, Theresa comes to discover that her daughter, Orla, is pregnant at the hands of an abusive lover, and with her whole life ahead of her, there’s concern that having this baby would change the course of Orla’s life. Which in turn, motivates Theresa to take matters into her own hands and help Orla terminate the pregnancy. An act that requires some secrecy on her part because of those aforementioned laws, to the point where she is forced to order abortion pills via the world wide web. Which unfortunately requires a medical visit when the pills cause Orla harm and that in turn, causes Theresa harm. For the authorities opt to charge her with crimes for taking part in this, putting her future at jeopardy since she is suddenly facing real jail time here. Which is a story that smoothly hammers home the fact that no woman should have to be put in this situation in the first place, where she must sneak around to terminate a pregnancy. It should be readily available as she sees fit so her future can be decided, by her. Especially if we’re talking about an unwanted pregnancy.

As for the other powerful story in this tale, well that relates to a young couple named Hannah and Jonathan, who in fact… are eager to become parents and celebrate mightily when they discover a baby is on the way. But unfortunately, a visit to the doctor reveals that their baby suffers from a genetic abnormality that will in fact, kill the child at birth. Prompting Hannah to make the difficult decision to terminate the pregnancy so the child doesn’t suffer and so she doesn’t have to go through with the horror of placing a death sentence upon her baby. But alas, the horrible laws at the time, and the ridiculous waiting periods present then to get an abortion, put her past the point of no return, forcing her to give birth to a corpse. Something that shatters her and motivates her to step up and be an activist regarding this kind of cruel act. One set up under the guise of ‘pro-life’ when in fact, these laws and the horrible and over the line advice of her boss and other doctors, sentenced that child to death under the promise that perhaps ‘God’ will bless her and let the baby live.

If anything, both of those storylines… make for one stunning hour of television. One that truly exposes us to some of the problems that come about with Pro-Life laws and their woefully outdated views and extremist groundings. Because no two pregnancies are the same, and sometimes, people don’t want to be a parent and don’t feel the call that others claim to and that IS okay. Because we are free beings that can choose whatever path we so choose, and in the end, we are to be judged by a higher power… not people who immerse themselves in the belief that they are righteous. But what matters more here, is that this series finally educates people regarding the reality of pregnancies, and how they are actually viewed in the world and how it isn’t some miracle to all. Not when it could change the course of a life and cause outright suffering for the baby and the parents that have to reconcile the death of their newborn child and hopefully… this show starts the right conversations and change, so that a woman’s right to choose remains. Until next time.  

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 610 of ‘Better Call Saul’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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There are a great many reasons why the AMC series, Better Call Saul, is held in such high regard. For instance, it’s cast puts on an acting clinic week in and week out, with Bob Odenkirk and Rhea Seehorn leading the way with their rightfully Emmy nominated performances since they often move us and wow us when they’re on the screen. Plus, the writing is simply top notch and engages a viewer in ways they never thought possible. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that this series is the rare prequel that embraces the sequel, courtesy of Easter Eggs and crossovers that make this story accessible to any Breaking Bad fan and motivate those who didn’t watch Walter White’s tragedy play out to do so. But of the many reasons we respect this show, there is one reason above all others that it has our awe.
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In that, it is one of the few shows out there… that genuinely knows how to surprise its audience through and through. Because in this era of fan theories and saturation, sometimes people are able to call what comes next and find comfort in knowing the story. But from the very beginning of Jimmy McGill’s tragic journey, there have been few times where we’ve been able to make that happen, since the amazing writing in this story has found new and stunning directions to take us in, and for proof… well then look no further than last night’s episode. Because ‘Nippy’ was quite the unconventional tale, one that didn’t take the audience where they expected to go. Because let’s be honest, after that stunning ending to last week’s story, we expected to be spending way more time with Saul Goodman.

Because having him pop up in all his glory with newfound context regarding what drove Jimmy to embrace Saul… implied that we would get a taste of that world again and gain further perspective on that iconic character. The kind that would continue to add new wrinkles to the events of Breaking Bad. But instead that simply was not meant to be. For this particular tale, moved us far beyond those events and the harrowing moment that saw a disgraced and terrified Saul Goodman escape the ABQ in a hurry to keep his own hide safe. Instead, we returned to Gene Takovic’s life, shortly after he made that phone call to Ed, wherein he promised he would handle matters himself and boy… did he. Because Jimmy/Gene came to realize somewhere along the way he had to make a stand and not run and hide anymore and he did so in quite the creative manner.

Primarily by relying upon his old skill sets as Slippin’ Jimmy and the theatrics that only Saul Goodman can display and combining those two powers with the forgettable nature of Gene… allowed for him to quickly ingratiate himself with a seemingly everyday woman named Marion. But he didn’t take the time to get to know her to try and be kind or make some kind of penance for the past. No, she was nothing more than a mark, plain and simple, someone who would help Jimmy get to Jeff. Because she was his mother and his smooth actions, allowed for Jimmy to spend time with the family at dinner and of course… set a plan in motion to keep his identity a secret. But not through violence or threat or anything of that sort, because that has never been Jimmy’s style. No instead, he figured out how to keep his real identity a secret in a far more compelling manner for Jeff.

Because Jimmy knows how to read people and knows how to give them what they want and he knew that Jeff wanted in on the wild world that Saul now represented, so why not give him a taste? Which allowed for that elaborate plan to come to life. One where Jimmy would spend many a night playing nice with the night watchmen in security, under the guise of thanks for calling the ambulance for Jimmy. To gain their trust of course and to properly case the mall and learn of its security weaknesses. Which as it turned out, involved just feeding a kind security named Frank, some delicious Cinnabon. For when he had that in his hands, he was without focus and away from the monitors, for exactly three minutes no less, an eternity for a thief that wanted to perhaps say… steal some high-end goodies.
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Of course, that is exactly what Jimmy wanted to happen. Because the chance to take part in a high risk/high reward heist, one designed by him and executed by Jeff… would be enough to give Jeff the fix he needed and give Jimmy the peace and quiet and anonymity he wanted through mutually assured destruction. Since this plan would pull together enough felonies to bring everyone down in the event it went public, and well… despite one stunning hiccup, one that required some surprise honesty from Jimmy regarding the path of his life and the hardships he’s dealt with… the plan went off without a hitch and Jeff finally got to enjoy the good life as a criminal and it would seem that Jimmy is finally free of any worry regarding being exposed after all this time. 

Which is a plot… that absolutely took us by surprise and one that once again reminded us of Jimmy’s extensive skill set as a con man and how damn good, he is at it. Since he once again pulled off an impossible heist. But going this route and spending time in the ‘future’ of the Breaking Bad Universe, does beg some important questions. Such as… why? Why go here and do this and show us a skill set we already know and well, the answer to that is simple. For this is a character study through and through, one that has explored the nature of choice and the temptations of darkness that some give into and well, going this route story wise was clearly designed to setup some important question regarding Jimmy. In that, is it possible for a man like James McGill to find redemption? For that matter, can he escape what seems to be his dark nature? After all, he’s committed some heinous crimes, hurt a lot of people along the way, often in the name of the thrill of ‘The Game’ as he put it and even in hiding, he still can craft the worst. 

A move that makes this… a set up episode for the final leg of the journey. One that will explore those questions in great detail and will undoubtedly see Jimmy be tempted further down the line by his former persona and former habits. Since he found great comfort in the power of the scam and boy does he miss being Saul, as evidenced by those closing moments and well… that makes this a brilliant episode when all is said and done. One that was powerfully subtle and genius in nature, courtesy of Michelle MacLaren’s masterful direction. And of course, it featured some stunning performances, especially from Bob Odenkirk and Carol Burnett was quite impactful as Marion. In fact, who knew that a Bob and Carol scene would be so electric? And hopefully we get more of them on screen together in these final three episodes and down the line in general. But all of that aside, what matters more, is that the stage is set for the endgame and the questions we need answers to are posed, and it will be quite fascinating to see where this series takes us next as we reach the end of Jimmy McGill’s stunning journey. Until next time.

One thing that we can all agree upon, is that time travel stories have become a touch stale as of late, and it makes sense as to why. After all, they have become a staple in science fiction now, which wasn’t always the case, and becoming a part of the everyday pantheon of storytelling… brings forth formula. The kind where unspoken rules about time travel have been established to make life easier for writers and audiences and while that has indeed made everyone comfortable in what they are about to read and see… it really has pulled some of the magic out of this kind of story. For now, we have an idea of what is going to happen, and the subgenre doesn’t really challenge itself by constantly sticking to those familiar rules.
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But thankfully, we are living through a revolutionary era of storytelling. Where formula is being rejected and derided and writers and creatives in general are pushing themselves to reinvent stories that are stale in nature, so that audiences can once again be wowed by what they read or see on the screen and thankfully, the time travel story is about to get a wonderful facelift on television. For the magnificent comic book, Paper Girls, is about to become a television series on Prime Video. One that is outright going to blow people away and revolutionize the time travel story, thanks to several key elements. Such as the fact that this particular tale breaks free from formula through its fascinating plot line. Because while most of these stories focus upon scientists and their adventures through the timeline, this series offers up a different kind of time traveler. 

In fact, it provides us with four, that all happen to be teenage girls, and Mac, Tiffany, Erin, and KJ find themselves dealing with quite the wild morning in 1988. For when they assemble to deliver newspapers as they do every morning to make a little cash, the rowdier kids in the neighborhood that are still riding a Halloween high, cause them enough trouble to engender a need for revenge. So, the girls can be left alone to do their jobs and go about their lives… but their attempts at payback, go terribly wrong. Because just like that, they’re plunged into a world that is both familiar and alien and it doesn’t take long for them to learn… they’re now caught up in something chaotic and dangerous, something that involves time travel, and their lives will never be the same.

Which really is a fantastic way to shake up the time travel mythos, since these are everyday people caught up in a temporal nightmare, and you just don’t see that anymore, and it makes for some refreshing moments for certain. The kind that draws the viewer into the chaos surrounding them, so they too can learn what’s going on. But what’s truly amazing about this series, is that its wonder and originality extends well beyond its refreshing plot line. Because this is a story that also offers up some refreshing notions as to why people would be traveling through time, and it also breaks a lot of the established rules along the way, giving rise to moments that we’ve wanted to see in these types of tales but have been denied… because of the rules. 

As to how exactly it pulls off those feats, we won’t reveal here. Because this is a magnificent story that needs to be experienced firsthand. So, you can properly savor in every twist and turn and wild visual this story sends your way, and the best news of all… is that you don’t have to wait all that much longer to experience what this series has to offer. For Paper Girls arrives on Prime Video on July 29, 2022, and we here at NTG are so excited for this series, that we will be counting down to its release all week with more pre-release coverage. By way of interviews with the cast and of course, our standard recaps and, we certainly hope you check all of that out and the series as well. Because this really is quite the refreshing science fiction show, one that will hopefully influence change in the subgenre by showing everyone out there… that time travel stories can be so much more.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 207 of ‘P-Valley’. To revisit the previous episode, click here. Also, this article features some discussions revolving around mental health, suicide, domestic violence, and abortion, which may be triggering to some individuals.

When we last settled in to discuss the thoughtful STARZ series, P-Valley, we talked at length about the show’s most powerful moment to date. Since ‘Savage’ saw Big Teak do the unthinkable and take his own life after struggling with a grand battle with his mental health and life, a move that undoubtedly started all kinds of off the air conversations about mental health and suicide and this moment was so powerful and so moving… that the series took a week off to let us process the gravity of it all. A move that also put the show in a fascinating place from a storytelling perspective. Because where does a story go from a moment that important and that significant in the middle of the season? Well as it turns out, the best way for a show to handle something that big… is to offer some fascinating realism in the follow-up tale.
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For ‘Jackson’ is a story that more or less… plunged us into the next phase of what happens when we lose someone we care about in this world. Specifically, that part of the grieving process where we take a moment to really ponder upon what we’ve experienced and its meaning and the meaning of life for that matter as well. Since death makes us face so much and well, that allowed for Lil’ Murda to really ponder upon all of that and realize that there’s so much more to life than just pushing hard and making money. We need more, we need connections and grounding and that in turn, let he and Clifford begin to explore their love for one another. Since there was no denying their chemistry or their draw to each other and this was… a powerful sequence for certain. One that did a phenomenal job of touching on every point of the grieving process and it finally may have allowed for Clifford and Murda to start the long journey toward becoming a couple, something they've both wanted for ages.

But while that made for some beautiful and touching moments, the kind that should have served as the anthesis to what happened last week, the gritty realism that this series exudes was still present here. For Lil’ Murda struggled mightily with completely letting Clifford into his heart and his emotions and spoke more to his fears about being openly out, regardless of his love for Clifford. Which is an admission that reminds us of how far we need to go to be accepting of LGBTQ+ individuals since prejudice allows for that worry to persist and this is also an episode that tapped into some of our real-world fears about the Coronavirus once again. Since Grandma Earnestine struggled with the virus here. To the point where she was delirious and ready to inflict harm upon herself because of the fever, all before the ambulance finally hauled her away to the hospital. And well… her observations about how that might be the end and the fear that Clifford and Murda experienced in watching her go… was everyone's worst nightmare during the peak of the pandemic, one that some went through.

Speaking of real-world scenarios, the show didn’t stop with its slice of life presentation there. Because while all of that was going down in Chucalissa, Mercedes and her daughter were at a crossroads. For Terricka was close to the cutoff date for terminating her pregnancy and she needed to decide if she was going to do that or carry it to term and the debate over that, put Mercedes in a unique place mentally. One where she realized that her hopes for being a better mother than her own were dashed, and that she created a new cycle of abuse and isolation through her actions. So, in order to break it and finally show Terricka what a good family life was like, she had to treat her daughter like her daughter… and an adult. And in doing so, her little one made the big decision to end the pregnancy and move in with Mercedes so they could finally start anew. Which was also a powerful storyline, one that spoke to how generational trauma is easily passed down and hard to break, and it touched upon the challenges women face now when it comes to making choices for their own bodies, making this another poignant storyline for certain.

If anything, this was… just another incredible episode from an outright incredible series. One that didn’t gloss over the impact of a lost life in the slightest, since we truly felt Murda’s pain this episode, and fully understood his desire to life live differently now that he sees its value in a new light. And of course, this episode was filled to the brim with incredible commentary and follow-up on other critical plotlines. Such as Keyshawn’s never-ending nightmare, and how that situation might be evolving for the better. But while we wait to see what comes out of that, and the other plot threads introduced here, we can bask in the majesty of a flawless and moving tale. One that reminded us that this series is as deep as it gets and it will present the incredible ride that is the human experience in the raw, so that we can finally have important conversations about topics that get swept under the rug, far too often. Until next time.

It really has been quite the wonderful day for nerdy news, hasn’t it? All of which has come courtesy of San Diego Comic Con. Because there were a bevy of pop culture panels that took place today, each one revealing something delightful about our favorite shows from just about every network, including Apple TV+. In fact, they’ve been quite busy with announcements over the past couple of days since it was announced on Friday that For All Mankind has been renewed for a fourth season and earlier today, See, unveiled an epic trailer for the third and final season of the show and the wonder didn’t end there.
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Because Apple TV+ also took the time to offer up a first-look teaser for one its most beloved shows, Mythic Quest. Yes, that’s right, folks in San Diego enjoyed an early look at the highly anticipated third season of this phenomenal series and they also came to learn that the series will be returning this fall. And courtesy of Apple TV+, the time has come for everyone to enjoy that trailer, and some additional information about season three of Mythic Quest.
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‘Today at a special “Mythic Quest” panel at San Diego Comic-Con, Apple TV+ and the cast and creators of hit workplace comedy series confirmed that the series will return this fall, and unveiled a first-look teaser at the highly anticipated third season. “Mythic Quest” co-creator, executive producer and star Rob McElhenney, co-creator and executive producer Megan Ganz, executive producer and star David Hornsby and stars Charlotte Nicdao, Danny Pudi, Ashly Burch, Imani Hakim, and Jessie Ennis came together for the conversation, moderated by Craig Mazin, and shared a glimpse into what fans can expect this upcoming season.
 
“Mythic Quest” follows a group of video game developers tasked with building worlds, molding heroes and creating legends, but the most hard-fought battles don't occur in the game — they happen in the office. In season three, as Ian and Poppy navigate the gaming world and their partnership at the newly formed GrimPop Studios, Dana is forced to play mediator to her bosses’ incessant bickering. Back at Mythic Quest, David settles into his new role as the boss where he truly finds himself in charge for the first time with Jo returning as his assistant — more loyal and militant than ever; and Carol attempts to figure out where she fits in after a new promotion. At Berkeley, Rachel struggles to balance her morals with capitalism, while a post-prison Brad tries to return to society as a reformed man.
 
Co-created by Rob McElhenney, Charlie Day, and Megan Ganz (“It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia''), the series stars McElhenney, Charlotte Nicdao, David Hornsby, who also executive produces, Danny Pudi, Ashly Burch, Imani Hakim, Jessie Ennis and Naomi Ekperigin.
 
“Mythic Quest” is executive produced by McElhenney and Day under their RCG banner, Michael Rotenberg and Nicholas Frenkel on behalf of 3Arts, and Jason Altman, Danielle Kreinik and Gérard Guillemot for Ubisoft Film & Television.   David Hornsby and Megan Ganz also executive produce. The series is produced for Apple TV+ by Lionsgate, 3 Arts Entertainment and Ubisoft. 
 
Apple TV+ offers premium, compelling drama and comedy series, feature films, groundbreaking documentaries, and kids and family entertainment, and is available to watch across all your favorite screens. After its launch on November 1, 2019, Apple TV+ became the first all-original streaming service to launch around the world, and has premiered more original hits and received more award recognitions faster than any other streaming service in its debut. To date, Apple Original films, documentaries, and series have earned 250 wins and 1,115 award nominations, including this year’s Oscar Best Picture winner “CODA.”’

Truly there are a great many reasons to love San Diego Comic Con. After all, it’s the biggest pop-culture convention in the world and there are endless vendors to visit, countless collectibles to buy and a steady stream of cosplayers to snap pictures of. But of the many reasons to love SDCC, it’s the big announcements that happen at the convention that truly makes it so special. Since we know that the future of our favorite shows and news about stories to come will be revealed to the world here, and sometimes… the somber duty of the farewell is part of this show as well.

Since this is the perfect place to reveal all the details of a farewell season for a show and Apple TV+ took part in some of that earlier today at the convention. For during the ‘Storytellers of Apple TV+’ panel at the convention, the latest trailer for the third and final season of the wildly popular and praised show, SEE, was unveiled to the audience and now… courtesy of Apple TV+, we are sharing it and some information about the final season, with all of you. Enjoy!  
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​‘Today at the “Storytellers of Apple TV+” panel at San Diego Comic-Con, Apple TV+ and “See” showrunner and executive producer Jonathan Tropper unveiled the trailer for the third and final season of the global hit, epic post-apocalyptic Apple Original series starring Jason Momoa. The eight-episode final season of “See” debuts with the first episode on Friday, August 26, 2022 on Apple TV+, followed by one new episode weekly, every Friday.
 
“See” is set in a brutal and primitive future, hundreds of years after humankind has lost the ability to see. In season three, almost a year has passed since Baba Voss (Momoa) defeated his nemesis brother Edo and bid farewell to his family to live remotely in the forest. But when a Trivantian scientist develops a new and devastating form of sighted weaponry that threatens the future of humanity, Baba returns to Paya in order to protect his tribe once more. 
 
Starring alongside Momoa in the third season of “See” are ensemble cast members Sylvia Hoeks, Hera Hilmar, Christian Camargo, Archie Madekwe, Nesta Cooper, Tom Mison, Olivia Cheng, Eden Epstein, Michael Raymond-James, David Hewlett and Trieste Kelly Dunn.
 
Featuring cast and crew who are blind or have low vision, “See" has been honored for its inclusivity and representation of the visually impaired. Since its premiere, the series has received the Ruderman Family Foundation Seal of Authentic Representation in 2020. Additionally, “See” was recognized with an NAACP Image Award nomination for star Alfre Woodard in the Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series category.
 
“See” is executive produced by Steven Knight, Francis Lawrence, Peter Chernin, Jenno Topping, Jim Rowe, Jennifer Yale, Anders Engström and Jonathan Tropper, who also serves as showrunner. The series is produced by Chernin Entertainment and Endeavor Content.
 
Following the third and final season of “See,” Jason Momoa will next star in the highly anticipated Apple Original limited series “Chief of War.” Starring, written by and executive produced by Momoa, and co-created by Thomas Pa'a Sibbett, “Chief of War” follows the epic and unprecedented telling of the unification and colonization of Hawaii from an indigenous point of view. 
 
Fans can catch up on the first two seasons of “See,” now streaming globally on Apple TV+.’