Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Four of ‘Moonhaven’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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Over the course of the past couple of weeks, the AMC+ series, Moonhaven, has offered up some fascinating observations about the human condition and our quest to find unity as a species. Such as how technology likely won’t ever be the key to shedding our problems, it will instead just mask them or give us a false sense of security regarding resolution. Not to mention, we’ve also come to learn that there is no running and hiding from our darker tendencies and they simply cannot be bred out of us or manipulated away. Which are some bleak lessons for certain, the kind that have left us wondering if there is a way that we can impact change upon humanity. 
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Because it just seems as though we cannot escape our worst elements, and obviously, the answers to making that happen seemingly continue to elude us. Since we don’t know exactly where to start to really alter who we are so we can be better as a species. But as this series continues along, it is beginning to offer up some answers on the matter, so that we can perhaps… impact the change we seek and it is accomplishing that, by creating utter chaos on Lune. For ‘Mada’ is a story that more or less informed the audience that things are getting worse by the day in Moonhaven, since so many are beginning to shed their trackers and give into odd concerns about the future. 

In fact, it was basically revealed that there is a silent movement that is growing loud on this colony, that is grounded in complete and utter fear. For so many believe that their better way of life on the moon, is something that everyone back home will utterly fear and deride and potentially push to quell through violence. Which has given rise to an anti-Earth movement. One where the good people of Lune believe they are the echo that will soon rise over the voice. Which led to some horrifying moments in this tale, the kind that featured parallels to some of the misinformation and fear that is spreading about now and saw one hell of an ending take place, one that has clearly changed the course of this tale going forward with its boldness and power. 

But what matters more here, is that through subtle moments in this tale and that very fear, the show was able to express what we need to work on and how we might be able to fix it. And in essence, it recognized that one of the biggest root causes of our problems as a species, is our fear of change. Because both Earthers and Mooners alike, and everyone in the real world for that matter, are so caught up in trying to preserve the moment that they believe any alteration to that, or their life patterns, will bring chaos and strife and an end to comfort. When in fact, change is a constant and always in our lives and if we took the time to embrace that and understand that, and truly live in the moment and let it go, then perhaps great wonders could be accomplished by this species.
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Not to mention, this is a story that also leaned heavily into another aspect of how we can perhaps finally find unity. In that, we should take a moment and really recognize the fact… that we are indeed all one people and one species, and that we share in so much. And if by chance we took the time to realize that and see and recognize how much we share in fundamentally… then perhaps we would stop with the fighting and realize that we’re on the same side and get something accomplished. Which is perhaps an answer that might not be revolutionary in nature but is worth revisiting none the less because we tend to forget it. But watching Paul grieve over the loss of his mother in this story, did indeed hammer home how we are all in this together.

If anything, one can hope… that the lessons being sent our way, are ones that the characters can learn from as well. Since clearly, they too have fallen into the same traps that modern day man continues to and that is leading to some serious conflict. The kind that is endangering humanity, period, and it will be quite interesting to see if Bella and Paul can accomplish what so many others have struggled to do and bring peace to a species that lives in fear far too often. But while we wait to see what comes next, we can relish in another incredibly intelligent chapter in this journey. One that found a way to get those points across in a subtle and beautiful manner, while continuing to world build and show us more of this incredible colony, and truly, we will all be counting down the minutes until next week’s tale, to enjoy more of this fantastical story and to see where its bold storytelling is going to take us. Until next time.  

There was a time, where television shows were viewed as nothing as fluffy, mindless entertainment and understandably so. After all, for a long time the television industry focused on telling stories that really didn’t dive deep into anything of note. There were just laughs to be found during sitcoms, epic chase scenes and wonderfully engaging monologues in police serials, and dramas really only touched upon simple topics. All so that the audience could unwind from their day and just kick back and relax and it really did seem as though, this was going to be the landscape of television until the end of time really, since no one appeared to be interested in making any changes to formats that every network had mastered.
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But somewhere along the line, producers, and writers, and directors, and actors for that matters as well… pondered upon the possibility that perhaps television could be more. That it could in fact, tell stories that did more than just entertain, and actually teach people powerful life lessons or take us on journeys that reflect the real world, giving the audience something meaningful to latch onto over catch phrases and just like that, the industry changed and shows gave us so much more. To the point where there are stories that reflect everyday life and can outright guide people in unique situations, such as Trying on Apple TV+. For this particular story, one revolving around a young couple that would do anything to start a family… is quite reflective of our modern world and has taken us on quite the journey over its first two seasons.

Wherein we’ve watched Jason and Nikki fight hard to see what treatments will help them to have a family, when in fact they cannot, and what it would take to become a trusted couple with the state so that they can adopt. For that is a journey that is hyper realistic and one that couples are going through right now and well, this is a series that is showing no signs of slowing down regarding its realism and relatability. For the third season of this magnificent and heartwarming series arrives on Apple TV+ tomorrow, and it just so happens that this new year of storytelling is going to dive into topics that not everyone is familiar or comfortable with. Because when we catch up with Nikki and Jason in season three, they’re dealing with the shock of having a family in their home at last and that’s… a powerful way to start this new season.

After all, this is what they’ve wanted for ages and that’s something a great deal of people have wanted and work to have at any level. Which allows for this show to quickly examine what it means to be a new parent and how there is simply no guidebook on such matters or how the day should look when you’re a parent, and that leads to more of this show’s brilliant brand of storytelling. The kind that is both poignant and fun since the comedic elements this show is known for are here in spades, as is its heartwarming and tear-inducing, and comforting moments. But truly, this is a season of stories that are just powerful and relatable on a whole new level as we watch this duo navigate a new phase in their life, one that means the world to them and that really does make for some incredible television, the kind that you simply want more of.

So, you can see if Nikki and Jason finally have their dreams come true and can grow into the people they absolutely want to be and obviously, we’ve kept the details on a great deal of what will happen in the two-episode premiere under wraps because you need to experience the wonder of those two episodes for yourself and thankfully the wait for that is almost over. Since July 22, 2022, will bring forth the beginning of season three in all of its glory and we here at NTG cannot wait to watch this magnificent season alongside the rest of you and geek out about it as well. So, make sure you check back with us to reflect upon the story with our weekly recaps and to check out our our interview with Esther Smith and Rafe Spall, who play Nikki and Jason on the show, as we continue to dive deeper into the majesty of a series that really does a wonderful job of reflecting our world and what family means to all of us.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Two of ‘Everything’s Trash’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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One thing that we can all agree upon, is that image is something that is supremely important in our world. So much in fact, that we go to great lengths to project a good one. Because we know that if we always project the perfect image, people will respect us and trust us and believe in us. For that is the unwritten law of the land when it comes to modern society and no one has really ever bothered to challenge that status quo, since image does so much for us… and that’s surprising to say the least. Because time and time again, we’ve seen image and our desire to make it a priority, cause more harm than good.

Simply because once, someone uses image to flash their way into a job they weren’t qualified for, they create chaos in the workplace. Or someone that we roll with that has their image shattered creates boatloads of drama we don’t need in our life. Which is why the next episode of Everything’s Trash on Freeform is of note. Because the next chapter in Phobe’s incredible journey through life… involves a need for her to project a powerful image. Because the magazine arm of her parent company was about to do a cover for the best podcast under their roof and of course… no other show on the network held a flame to Phoebe and Malika's and therefore… they had to be the top choice for the cover, and that motivated them to really dive deep into image in ‘Black Excellence Is Trash’.

Because they quickly learned that some of their sister shows were going to go all out to impress the brass to land the cover, and that meant they had to respond in kind and wow them. Which is why they quickly worked to create a replica Black Excellence photo. One that put Phoebe in a magnificent light, the kind that would wow the brass and give them no other choice to but hand her the cover and well… this duo went to some wild lengths to make that happen. In part by locking up some stunning clothes to make Phoebe appear to be incredibly well-to-do, something she hyped on the podcast as well. Plus, they decided that this photo needed an owl, since the finest Black Excellence photos on the internet, just so happen to have that. Which was a touch outlandish, but they simply did not care. They wanted that cover.

So… they landed the owl with Michael’s help. Because somehow… he had not one, but two owl guys to supply him with an owl on a moment’s notice and they even snuck into Jayden’s home to do this photoshoot since Jayden’s place projected that excellence. But while Phoebe of course got the cover and made up with her brother over the owl ripping that place to shreds… this whole experience left her changed. Because she came to realize that this grand pursuit of image that we consistently go after, is just plain stupid. For it pushes us to be who we are not and to hide behind a visage that has no substance or gravity or meaning for that matter as well… so it is best we just be honest and be who we are and let the chips fall as they may.

Because more than likely, being ourselves and doing the work, will help us to achieve our goals… regardless of image and that made for one thoughtful tale. One that also, brought the laughs hard. Because watching Phoebe and Malika go the extra mile to make this happen, was simply the stuff of legend through and through. Not to mention, the owl plot thread was pretty darn amazing as well. But what matters more, is that they lent humor to a serious topic and that allowed for us to absorb the lesson no problem and well, all this episode does, is immerse us further into Phobe’s world and it makes us eager to continue the journey. So, we can see what other lessons and shenanigans await us as Phoebe’s journey, continues along. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Five of ‘Chloe’. To revisit the previous episode, click here. Also, this article contains discussions regarding domestic violence.
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Over the course of the past few weeks, our journey through the Prime Video series, Chloe, has taught us a great deal about the dangers of residing within a fantasy world. For we know now, that holding onto that over anything else, can result in a shattering of our everyday lives. To the point where people that once meant the world to the dreamer are distanced for certain and the damage doesn’t end there. Since sticking with the fantasy, puts that same person in a risky place mentally and emotionally. Because those buried within a false world live in fear of being exposed and of course… the greatest danger of all… is that the fantasy will collapse, and the person that wouldn’t let go, could be left devastated in every way imaginable when that happens. 

Yet, there is another danger that we don’t really think about when it comes to fantasy living. In that, there is a chance that the world we’ve diving into, could in fact… be worse than the one we left behind. Which is… a scary and unfortunate possibility that became a reality for Becky Green in the next episode of Chloe. For ‘Grimy Friend’ taught her that the grass is not always greener on the other side, shortly after she learned a great deal of surprises about Chloe. Such as the fact that she had a tendency to use Richard to move about the world undetected. So, she could enjoy a little freedom away from home. In fact, Chloe was so hellbent on that freedom… that she actually purchased a little seaside cottage to work and live from and she was also funneling money out of Elliott’s accounts to prepare for what appeared to be a life without him.

Which is a surprise series of revelations that stunned Becky to no end. After all, Chloe supposedly had the perfect life through and through. So, why on earth would she be eager to leave and fighting to do so? Well as it turned out, Chloe wasn’t living the lavish and beautiful life that Becky thought she was. For she was actually miserable and eager to escape her marriage… all because, Elliott was not what he seemed. In fact, a monster would be the best way to describe him. Because he continued to press Becky to stay at home often and just be there for him night and day, and when she didn’t comply, he revealed his abusive tendencies. Since he took the time to hide her keys from her and lock her in the house and go through her stuff and confront and scream before playing nice. Making it clear that Elliot has no qualms with abusing the woman closest to him in life and well… that left Becky beside herself.

For the mystique and magic of loving him and being his next choice… was immediately removed. Teaching her in the harshest way imaginable that the fantasy can be a nightmare and that put her at quite the crossroads. One that she couldn’t quite reconcile in the moment. Because to do so would bring everything crumbling down quickly. So instead, she opted to just continue to dig for the moment. In the hopes of finding out more answers regarding the exact reasons as to why Chloe felt the need to end her own life and well… as evidenced by the end of this tale, that will be no easy task. For Becky is going to have to use incredible stealth to navigate under Elliott’s uncomfortably well-trained and downright obsessive eye to find that truth.

In the end however, this was just… a brilliant tale through and through. Simply because it really did offer up some fascinating surprises regarding Chloe’s life. Since it would appear that an abusive relationship was the genesis of a lot of her problems, and this is a story that has changed our stance regarding Becky. For now, she’s a hero of sorts, one that is working toward the truth and good, and while that doesn’t exonerate her for her sour behavior, it’s a start in the right direction and well… all this episode does is leave us incredibly hungry for more. Because there is only one episode left in this magnificent story, one that will likely answer our questions and seal Becky’s fate for better or worse, and it will be utterly incredible to see how those elements come to life as this incredibly well-written and thoughtful story, comes to a close. Until next time.

There was a time, where ‘day in the life’ reality television dominated the airwaves. Because there was something incredibly alluring about settling in for a half an hour to an hour and just… observing the lives of people in environments we knew nothing about. Because that really did make us privy to worlds we simply didn’t understand and helped us to learn more about the human condition as well, since you always learn more, from walking in another person’s shoes. But just like that, when Laguna Beach and Jersey Shore went off the air, that seemed to be the end of this type of show. Replaced instead with shows that were a pure evolution of the original. 

But as this era of peak television continues to chug along, networks are starting to ponder upon resurrecting those types of shows. For the demand is there and the vast number of networks out there could easily put together a reality series in this vein that reflects the times and once again offers up an unfettered look into life in unique places, and well, Prime Video is a network that quickly jumped at the chance to make that happen. For last week, their brand-new series, Forever Summer: Hamptons, made its debut and well… this is a series that indeed harkens back to those classic reality television shows. For this is a story that plunges us into the everyday lives of college students during their summer vacation and in keeping with the tradition of this type of show, they’re not the average college student.

Instead, these are folks that are mostly natives to the Hamptons. The popular vacation getaway that so many hold in high regard, and well, this is definitely a world that most of us know little of, giving us fascinating insight into what life is like in the Hamptons. For we are able to learn, that despite the well-known decadence of this part of the world, life does more or less continue like normal out here. Which is wonderful since it somewhat removes the mystique of this iconic place, reminding us that there are indeed some experiences that we share in together. Such as working summer jobs and dealing with dating drama and everything in between. Because that’s just part of the human experience and that is a twist that definitely draws you into this world.

However, make no mistake about it, this is an old school reality TV show at heart. That means there needs to be something that separates it from the rest of the ‘day in the life’ reality shows and ironically, setting it in the Hamptons is how that comes to life. Because at the same time, these folks grew up here, and grew up around money and have a vastly different perspective on life and thrive in a different environment. Which leads to plenty of fascinating moments for certain, and it also features, some unique conflicts. Such as how the folks that grew up in the Hamptons… are quite protective of it and oddly have a bit of disdain for the tourists from the city that spend their summers in this lovely place. 

But of course, there is so much more to this show than a grand exploration of the Hamptons and the fascinating perspective it presents us with. There are of course, relatable conflicts that take place here and hopes and dreams are expressed and rightfully so. For this is a coming-of-age story as well, one where everyone begins to grow and see the world in a different light. As to how exactly that goes down, we won’t spoil here, since it is better you experience that firsthand. And the best news of all, is that you can do that right now. For season one of Forever Summer: Hamptons is available to stream on Prime Video, and if you’re a fan of this kind of show, we certainly hope you give it a look… so you can see what life looks like in an iconic part of America.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 609 of ‘Better Call Saul’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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Over the course of the past six years, fans of the AMC series, Better Call Saul, have anxiously been awaiting two key moments when it comes to Jimmy McGill’s journey into darkness. Such as bearing witness to the exact moment when Jimmy decided to embrace Saul Goodman and everything he stands for and to learn exactly what drove Jimmy to embrace such a scummy persona and well… this particular journey more or less put those exact moments to the wayside in order to inform us that such moments and decisions don’t just arrive out of the blue. In fact, there would be no epiphany and/or eureka moment where Jimmy McGill would just decide to abandon the last vestiges of good in his heart to embrace a man that had no qualms with asking a drug kingpin to kill a man. Instead, such a transformation… takes so much more.

Such as emotional abuse, trauma, and unresolved pain in one’s heart and for a long time, it really seemed as though Charles McGill was going to be the source of all that. Since his views of Jimmy and efforts to keep him down and away from being a good and honest lawyer, combined with his passing and unresolved end to their relationship, spoke volumes to the reality that blood might have forged Saul Goodman, and in a way it did… since his passing did motivate Jimmy to practice under that name. But instead… what finally broke Jimmy and changed him forever, came about from a far more powerful act. One that was finally put on display during this week’s episode of the show. For ‘Fun and Games’ is a story that finally showed us the true genesis and origin of Saul Goodman, and it turns out that transformation… and some other poignant moments… came forth from the aftermath of Howard Hamlin’s death.

For in reality, his passing and the subsequent events that came out of his death, fundamentally changed everyone and pushed them in a bold new direction, even the ‘villains’ of this tale. Because despite appearing to relish in the death of Lalo Salamanca, and even escaping any penalty for it… Gustavo ‘Gus’ Fring was a changed man here. One that came to realize that there could be no more mistakes and no more lack of focus on his prize, and he was wiling to sever connections and potential for intimacy if it meant he could have it all, giving rise to the ruthless kingpin that will eventually butt heads with one Walter White. Not to mention… Mike Ehrmantraut faced the reality of what he had become in this tale, thanks to Nacho’s father. Since a kindhearted visit to inform dear old dad of the truth… ended in a verbal lashing that informed Mike he was no better than the criminals he once hunted, cementing his sorrowful future as well. 

But while it was wonderful and important to see Gus and Mike transition to their future personas right before our eyes… the moment of the hour was the birth of Saul Goodman… and how he was born by way of Kim Wexler. For despite doing her best in this tale to deal with everything that came out of her actions, with her even going so far as to play along further with the lies and make Howard truly appear to be a drug addict to even his own wife, she was struggling with all of this and came to quite the epiphany. One that came out of that ugly moment at Howard’s wake. In that, while she loved Jimmy dearly and found a true connection and happiness with him… he brought out the worst in her and she brought out the worst in him and for proof… she need not look any further than Howard’s downfall and subsequent death.

Which was a reality that she wasn’t comfortable with anymore. Because it had pushed her to places, she hadn’t a clue she was capable of, and it motivated her to take part in acts that she normally would not have indulged in… and well… that pushed her to take some drastic action in her life. Because at this point, she was at a crossroads. One where she could stay the course and yes, enjoy the wonder of love with Jimmy at her side, whilst the price dearly, emotionally and mentally, for feeding off of the fundamental toxicity in their love. Or… she could make some changes to her life and try to atone for all of this and in the end, Kim Wexler chose the latter option. A decision that brought forth some grand and sweeping alterations to her life.
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Such as resigning from the New Mexico Bar Association and giving up her practice, a move that took place dramatically in court and well, once she left the law behind in the Land of Enchantment, she took the next drastic step in atoning for her sins... she broke up with Jimmy McGill. A move that utterly broke the both of them in that moment because of her raw honesty about the state of their love and because of how much it hurt her to do this. But she wasn’t wrong, they really were toxic for one another, and fed upon that often and now a man’s legacy was ruined forever because of their mutual enjoyment of it and there was no squaring that in her mind. So, she made it clear to Jimmy there was no going back at his point and well, in that moment… Saul Goodman was born and that was by far… the most heartbreaking way to create that kind of man. 

Because in that moment, Jimmy McGill had more than his heart broken, he had his very faith in humanity and the future broken. For Kim Wexler and her love was everything that Jimmy needed to keep from slipping into the darkness. For she saw Jimmy FOR Jimmy and loved him regardless of his flaws and did everything to boost him and love him, and being rejected by his true love in this manner and being told by her that there was a side to him she lamented… was enough to do the trick. For that informed him, Chuck was right all along, and the rest as they say, is history. Which allowed for us to see just how hard Jimmy embraced Saul and all the false trappings of joy he had to offer, and how miserable Saul truly is/was since there was nothing left to live for at this point in his life, but money and the thrill of sticking it to a system and a world that rejected him, and what he had to offer.

Which is about… as tragic as it gets. Because a potentially great man and brilliant lawyer, committed to whatever the hell this existence is and what’s stunning… is that the tragedy isn’t done just yet. Because it is only a matter of time now before Saul Goodman and Walter White meet, a moment that will change the course of his life for the worse in every way imaginable, and it will be fascinating to see how the show is going to get us to Point B. Since there is potential now to give us ‘Saul Goodman: Year One’ and perhaps new angles to big moments from Breaking Bad. But what matters most, is that we got what we wanted, we saw Saul come to life in a brilliant and devastating tale. One filled with stunning performances and magnificent writing and one that leaves us… with a tinge of regret and sorrow over watching the last flicker of light… fade from Jimmy’s eyes. Until next time.

One thing that television fans can agree upon, is that the AMC & AMC+ series, Kevin Can F**k Himself, just so happened to be one of the most original shows to the hit airwaves in the past couple of years. For its unique plot and structure and fascinating commentary made for an incredibly unique viewing experience. One that sadly, is coming to an end. For it won’t be long now before the second and final season of this series hits the airwaves and well, to prepare us for the end of this journey and to build excitement over our impending return to this dynamic storytelling universe, AMC Networks released quite the treat today.

Specifically… a trailer for season two! One that informs us of… well, you’ll see yourself. So with that in mind, here is that incredible trailer and a brief synopsis regarding what to expect from season two, courtesy of AMC Networks.

‘AMC & AMC+ today debuted the official trailer and key art for the second season of the groundbreaking dark comedy Kevin Can F**K Himself, starring Emmy® Award-winning actress Annie Murphy (Schitt’s Creek). Alternating between traditional multi-camera sitcom and single-camera drama, this ambitious genre-bending series will return on Monday, August 22 at 9pm ET/PT on AMC, with the first two episodes available on AMC+.  AMC+ subscribers will have advance access to an additional episode each week.
 
Set in Worcester, Massachusetts, Kevin Can F**K Himself probes the secret life of a type of woman we all grew up believing we knew: the prototypical sitcom wife. Allison McRoberts (Murphy) is married to self-centered and “lovable” cable guy Kevin (Eric Petersen, Kirstie), but after a dark discovery, Allison teams up with neighbor Patty O’Connor (Mary Hollis Inboden, The Righteous Gemstones) to take drastic measures to escape her confines and take control of her life. She’s going to kill Kevin.
 
At the end of season one, Neil (Alex Bonifer, Superstore), Kevin’s best friend and neighbor – and Patty’s brother – learned of their murderous plan and vowed to blow their cover. Now in the second and final season, Allison and Patty scramble to deal with Neil, pushing Allison to find a better way out. Altering the original escape plan, Patty once again agrees to help Allison, but this time, on her own terms.
 
The series also stars Brian Howe (Chicago Fire) as Kevin’s father Pete, Raymond Lee (Here and Now) as Allison’s ex-boyfriend Sam Park, Jamie Denbo (F Is For Family) as Allison’s aunt and former boss Diane, and Candice Coke (The Algerian) as Patty’s girlfriend, Detective Tammy Ridgeway. Erinn Hayes (Kevin Can Wait, Gaslit) will make a guest appearance in season two.
 
Kevin Can F**K Himself is created and executive produced by Valerie Armstrong (Lodge 49, SEAL Team), and Rashida Jones and Will McCormack executive produce through Le Train Train (Claws, A to Z). Craig DiGregorio (Shrill) is showrunner and executive producer. Sean Clements and Colin Walsh also serve as executive producers.’

If there is only one particular drawback to this era of peak television… it would have to be that the various streaming networks out there, don’t seem to have that much of a focus on family themed entertainment. Which is a shame. Because there are plenty of parents out there eager to have something new and exciting for their kids to watch or to find something the family can enjoy together, and in order to find it… some serious digging has to be done.

But there is one particular network out there that understands the importance of family entertainment and makes a point of letting their viewers know they have it in spades and that exciting new family shows are on the way. For Apple TV+ has not only championed having this on their platform but they tend to work hard to bring top-notch family entertainment to their subscribers and well… as it turns out… more quality family entertainment from the network is indeed on the way.

For earlier today Apple TV+ released a trailer and drop date for the upcoming series Surfside Girls, a story based off of the bestselling graphic novel of the same name from IDW Publishing, and well… as you will soon see, this is another wonderful addition to the network’s incredible family programming lineup and well… without further ado, here is that trailer for you to enjoy, and some details regarding the show, courtesy of Apple TV+.

‘Apple TV+ today revealed the trailer for new kids and family series, “Surfside Girls,” premiering Friday, August 19. Co-developed by WGA Award winner and showrunner May Chan (“American Girl: Corinne Tan,” “The Astronauts”), as well as Alex Diaz and Julie Sagalowsky Diaz (“The Shannara Chronicles,” “What's Up Warthogs!”), and based on the bestselling IDW graphic novel series of the same name by author Kim Dwinell, the live-action series follows best friends Sam and Jade as they solve supernatural mysteries in their sleepy California beach town. These best friends must combine their polar opposite strengths of imagination and logic in order to solve the supernatural mysteries that hide just beneath the surface of their town. 
 
“Surfside Girls” stars Miya Cech (“Marvelous and the Black Hole,” “Rim of the World”), YaYa Gosselin (“We Can be Heroes,” “FBI: Most Wanted”) and Spencer Hermes-Rebello (“Troppo”). The series is produced by Endeavor Content and IDW Entertainment, and co-developed, written and executive produced by Chan, who also serves as showrunner. Paul Stupin (“Switched at Birth,” “Dawson's Creek”) serves as executive producer. Alex Diaz and Julie Sagalowsky Diaz (“The Shannara Chronicles,” “What's Up Warthogs!”) co-developed and serve as writers and executive producers. America Young (“Roswell, New Mexico,” “Legacies”) directs and executive produces the first two episodes. Lydia Antonini (“Locke & Key,” “Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn,” “October Faction”) also serves as executive producer on the series. Paul Davidson and Jeff Brustrom serve as executive producers on behalf of IDW.
 
The expanding and award-winning lineup of original films and series for kids and families on Apple TV+ also includes the recently premiered critically-acclaimed “El Deafo,” “Lovely Little Farm,” “Duck & Goose,”  “Pinecone and the Pony,” “Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock” and “Harriet the Spy” from The Jim Henson Company; “Hello, Jack! The Kindness Show” from Jack McBrayer and Angela C. Santomero; “Wolfboy and the Everything Factory” from Joseph Gordon-Levitt, HITRECORD and Bento Box Entertainment; “Get Rolling with Otis” and “Puppy Place”; Daytime Emmy Award-winning “Ghostwriter” and “Helpsters” from Sesame Workshop; Academy Award-nominated animated film “Wolfwalkers”; Peabody Award-winning series “Stillwater”; new series and specials from Peanuts and WildBrain including “Snoopy in Space” season two, “It’s the Small Things, Charlie Brown,” and “For Auld Lang Syne”; and “Here We Are: Notes for Living on Planet Earth,” the Daytime Emmy Award-winning television event based on the New York Times best-selling book and TIME Best Book of the Year by Oliver Jeffers.
 
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 246 wins and 1,115 award nominations and counting, including this year’s Oscar Best Picture winner “CODA.”’

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the season one finale of ‘Dark Winds’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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Over the course of the past six weeks, we’ve talked at length about the brilliant and refreshing nature of the AMC series, Dark Winds. For not only has this particular series, finally spotlighted the beautiful and important culture of the Navajo people that reside in the American Southwest, and offered a great deal of diversity, commentary, and representation along the way… it’s also been a show that has offered up a revolutionary crime drama. One that has defied the conventions and tropes that permeate the genre to provide its viewers with a mystery unlike any other. The kind grounded in the pain that comes from prejudice and apathy. 
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But while that has made for some powerful and engaging storytelling for certain, there is one particular constant when it comes to crime dramas. In that, wonderful writing or no… all roads eventually lead to a particular type of ending. One where good and evil will stand off in an epic and harrowing manner and where good often wins the day, and well, that’s mostly what the season one finale of this incredible series sent our way. For ‘Hózhóo Naasháa’ is a story that saw Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn and his associates finally confront the Buffalo Society in their cave hideout, and that did indeed lead to a fairly traditional and satisfying showdown for certain. But this writer uses the words ‘mostly’ and ‘fairly’ for one reason and one reason alone. Because despite familiar elements being present within this tale, the writers’ room of this story did their best to make sure this finale stayed in tune with the show’s desire to be a different kind of crime drama.

A feat accomplished here, by offering up quite the incredible reveal early on in this tale. For it took a matter of minutes to show us exactly why Special Agent Whitover has been working to quietly bury the murder case and why he’s been so hell-bent on getting onto the reservation to get to the bad guys. Simply because… he’s been on it the whole time. Because he figured out that James Tso and Frank Nakai were using a string of bank robberies to fund the Buffalo Society’s actions, and well… he also knew that the Gallup bank robbery was going to net them their biggest haul, and his retirement fund. Because like it or not… he was either getting his cut or they were going to jail. An ultimatum that left James with no choice, but to give Whitover what he wanted and well… that revelation added all kinds of tension to this tale.

After all, in present day, Bernadette was with Whitover since they were making their way to the hideout. And knowing his true intentions at this point, combined with a warning from Chee, only added to tension that outright exploded once everyone arrived at the cave. For this coming together of heroes and villains, brought forth some epic moments. The kind that showed off Joe’s resourcefulness and Jim’s bravery. Plus, it also featured some unsung heroes since Guy swooped in to save the day and well, in the end… that grand showdown ended mostly as expected. Since Whitover paid for his treachery, the family the society kidnapped was returned home, and James imparted justice upon himself. For when he was faced with a lifetime in prison, he chose the easy way out, bringing an end to this mess, allowing for the story to explore… the importance of closure.
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For this whole ordeal re-opened old wounds while creating new ones. But it also provided everyone with clarity and context and an understanding that healing needed to take place. Which it did at last and with that in hand… the story had one last surprise in store for us. In that, Jim Chee returned home after all. Because the disgusting nature of Whitover’s actions prompted him to leave the FBI and not deny his roots any further… and as an added bonus, he would face no penalties for the vengeful actions he took on that fateful night. Since he concealed the fact that Guy shot Whitover and that he and Bernadette tried to destroy the money. Because it would seem that Nakai survived his injuries in the battle and took the cash, leaving a bit of an open end to this case and some new horizons ahead.

The kind where Jim Chee can show off his skills as an officer of the law now that he is free of the lies hanging over him, and perhaps he and Bernadette can explore their burgeoning love. Plus, now Joe can resume his duties as the top officer on the reservation with no more ghosts chasing him on the highways and with peace in his heart and in the hearts of those that once derided him. But before we truly look ahead to season two, and the good news is that season two is indeed on its way… we can bask in the majesty of a quasi-traditional finale. One that really did offer up some epic and familiar moments, while finding new ways to pepper in surprises as only this series can and now that we’ve reached the end of this case… we can now start counting down the minutes to a new year of storytelling, from one of the most refreshing crime dramas to hit the airwaves in recent years. Until next season.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Six of ‘Becoming Elizabeth’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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At some point or another in our lives, we will find ourselves facing quite the painful and unsettling moment. One where people we thought were genuinely loyal to us, outright betray us and hurt us and leave us beside ourselves in a stunned manner. For we truly believe that people we know well and love, are incapable of causing us great harm. But someone will prove otherwise and that will put us at quite the crossroads. One where we will eventually have to reconcile that betrayal in a manner that is noble and honorable, so we don’t stoop to their level and feel better about everything… when the dust settles far down the line. So that we can move on and apply the lessons their betrayal taught us about trust and loyalty, and that means there is true beauty to be found in this ugly moment.
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In that, we will be okay, and we will pick up the pieces and live a wonderful new life with people that we can in fact, trust through and through. Which is why we only really give this moment emotional power as it plays out, since deep down we know this too shall pass. But what would happen if by chance, a grand betrayal didn’t just fade with time and logic? What if say… the person that turned upon us, risked more than our relationship with them, and created some major trouble instead? The kind that could impact our future and our very lives? Would we still respond in a noble manner? Or would we perhaps do something drastic to ensure our safety? Well, those are terrifying questions that some people have had to deal with throughout history, such as the Tudor family, as evidenced by this week’s episode of Becoming Elizabeth on STARZ.

For when we return to England in ‘What Cannot Be Cured’, there is chaos in the country at every level. Because not only is the King’s inner circle dealing with the betrayal that Thomas Seymour brought to King Edward’s private chambers, but Norfolk is slipping into chaos. Courtesy of a growing rebellion that stemmed from the King’s decision to make great changes to religion and well, in order to begin to put the pieces of the King’s Court back together… a great deal of people was posed with those very questions. Such as Princess Elizabeth for instance. Because was simply beside herself. For she couldn’t believe that the man she was to marry was capable of this kind of cruelty and treachery and well, she was faced with a simple choice in the matter.

In that, she could use her power and her influence to fight for Thomas every step of the way and stand by her love and try to forge a better way where his reasons were explored, and concerns addressed… or she could follow the clear direction coming from John Dudley. Wherein she needed to just paint Thomas Seymour as a traitor and disavow him and turn her back on him. Simply because this was going to get worse before it got better and any allies that could be rooted out regarding Thomas’ weird plan to kidnap the King… would be brought to swift and painful justice. Which meant, that staying true here and trying to understand the actions of a clearly broken man, could risk death for the Princess. Prompting her to simply provide John with exactly what he needed, regardless of the cost to her heart and her soul, in order to live and see another day. Which was a powerful decision to say the least, but necessary for someone of her standing, and the darkness revolving around the fallout of Thomas’ actions… didn’t end with this tough choice made by the future queen.

Because this attempted… whatever… immediately left the council in panicked place. For now, it was obvious that the Lord Protector wasn’t doing his job and that perhaps the right move here… would be to secure justice swiftly without his help and begin to transition power away from the Duke of Somerset. Which pushed the council to ask the King to order the death of his very own uncle for treason and once that was shockingly secured in a swift manner… they turned their attention to the new potential Protector for the King, the Princess Mary. For she had Edward’s ear often and knew how to reach him, and of course… she aspired for power and giving her just that… would allow for the council to easily work through her and that particular set of surprises… prompted quite the move on the duke’s part.
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For when he was faced with the reality that his role as impromptu king was going to be removed, he panicked and sent for John Dudley… shortly after he sent him away to quell that rebellion. All before taking the King to his residence under the guise that more trouble was coming their way. When in reality, he was simply grasping at power and couldn’t bear the thought of no longer being in charge because of his brother’s foolhardy actions. A decision that forced him to miss his brother’s lonesome and ugly final moments and this wild sequence ended… with his worst fears come to life. For the return of John Dudley brought about a changing of the guard. One shaped by the King’s own desire. Where John became Lord Protector and where the council lost out… giving rise to a new era for Edward’s reign, which thankfully ended, a terrifying time.

Because let’s be honest… there was a very real possibility that a lot of people could have died in this story because of Thomas’ actions. For the King and the Duke of Somerset were clearly out for blood that wasn’t Seymour related and that was quite the powerful way to explore just how lucky we are when it comes to the betrayals that break our hearts. For we won’t be interrogated and kept under house arrest, nor will anyone die or see their job stripped away when it happens to us. We’ll just weep and fire off some swear words, and that is progress for certain. Since clearly, this particular era was grounded in life and death in just about all affairs, thanks to primitive views on power and loyalty and well, in the end, this fascinating examination of what life was really like during this era… led to one powerful and devastating tale. 

One that saw another powerful character exit the narrative, since Thomas Seymour is no more, thanks to the swift blade of an axe and well, we all owe Tom Cullen a round of applause for turning in such a dynamic performance over the last six episodes. For he really did give life to an important man that clearly had incredible influence upon this important time in Elizabeth Tudor’s life, and without his fine work… none of the gravity present here would have existed. And now that Mister Seymour is gone, the time has come to turn our attention to the next phase in Elizabeth’s life. For now, she is completely and utterly free of the past, and a poor influence upon her emotions and she has quickly learned how to play the political game, and bear its burdens, and it will be genuinely fascinating to see where that freedom takes her as season one nears its end. Until next time.