Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Season Four Finale of ‘Babylon Berlin’. To revisit the previous two episodes, click here.
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When we last settled in to discuss the phenomenal MHz Choice series, Babylon Berlin, we talked at length about how the show’s previous two episodes, took the time to either put a bevy of plot points on the precipice of conclusion or moved them along in a manner that would allow for them for be resolved post haste. Out of the belief that the season four finale had designs on handling something quite big for the characters, and well… that turned out to be the case. For season four wrapped up in an epic and ominous manner, shortly after the story took the time to resolve just about every other plotline that has been introduced this season. 

For instance, the Goldstein Diamond plot wrapped up in a supremely unique manner. Simply because Mr. Goldstein came face to face with Wegener and came to learn that he was responsible for the theft of the diamond and for suffering in the Goldstein family and that… was what Goldstein wanted all along. The truth, and a chance to face the man that caused his family pain, to force him to understand the damage he had done, and with that in hand… Goldstein was able to leave the diamond behind for his European family and return home with some peace in his heart. And the resolution of that, allowed for Nyssen to ponder upon his next moves in life. For without a body, he was to receive no inheritance in the slightest, so he needed some kind of income and well, his presentation of the predecessor to the V-2 rocket, and a discussion of a dinner with the tiny mustached tyrant, implied his future may involve developing weapons for the Nazi War Machine. 

Plus, the whole matter involving Wendt and Marie-Luise was also wrapped up in a fascinating fashion. Because Wendt knew that Marie-Luise was compromised. Which prompted him to demand her to reveal her associates, which she… kind of did. A move that Wendt thought gave him the upper hand at last. But dear Kulanin played the spy game well, and got the Americans involved in protecting his precious cargo, making it appear as though the USA would know more of the rockets in question. But Marie-Luise had other plans and made sure to get the information to her Russian friends before escaping to America. Bringing this matter to its end as well… and there was one more plot thread that needed resolution so the show could dive into more epic matters.

In that, we needed to know what the fallout was going to be regarding the Armenian’s wholesale slaughter of the criminal underworld at Police HQ, and well… it turned out the police were viewed as heroes. As though they knew ‘scum’ would handle ‘scum’, so there were no penalties or fallout at all and that allowed for us to bear witness to a historical moment, one that wrapped up another critical plotline while setting the stage for a dark future. For this episode featured the Stennes Revolt, where Stennes seized Nazi Party Headquarters in an effort to overthrow the mustache man. A plan that the police wanted to work since it would have devastated the party. But alas, the little man had a lot of allies, and Wendt was one of them and stepped in and stopped the revolt, and Rath was powerless to do anything since he was discovered as the mole and was occupied in a fight for his life during this mess, because of it.

Ergo, history was on track and darkness would fall. But thankfully, there are still some salad days ahead for the good people in this town, and the episode explored that as well. Since Charlotte was able to get her badge back for her work in bringing down the White Glove Club, and she even met her half-brother and caught up with him and continued to fall deeper and deeper in love with Rath. Who also found himself at a unique crossroads since he revealed he no longer wanted to kill his brother, a move that the good doctor believed would motivate Rath to lead an army of the broken. Which could perhaps serve as the last great test for Rath before series end, and we will have to wait to see what he chooses since we faded to black.

But what matters most in this moment, is that we were privy to a powerful season finale. One that truly did wrap up so much and cleared the slate so that the fifth and final season of the show can indeed focus on the darkest hour in Germany’s sordid history. Wherein the Nazi Party seized power. But while we wait to see how Gereon and Charlotte handle the end of life in Berlin as they know it, and the dark days ahead for the world because of one man’s pathetic quest for power and glory, we can celebrate another stellar season of storytelling. One that was grand and sweeping and once again plunged us into a time that we know little of and it was nice to enjoy that one last time… before a two-word cry that sends chills down our spines… brings forth paradise lost. Until next season.   

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episodes Three and Four of ‘Time Bandits’. To revisit the Series Premiere, click here.
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It really is quite amazing what the new Apple TV+ series, Time Bandits, is accomplishing from a storytelling standpoint. Because not only has this show reinvented and reimagined the original 1981 film in a manner that is inventive and fun, but it is quickly finding its voice and establishing what this show is eager to accomplish in its first season. Which is, to tell a grand and sweeping story that makes us laugh and provides us with a sense of adventure while teaching us along the way, and never was that more evident than during this week’s block of episodes. Since ‘Medieval’ and ‘Prohibition’ brought forth all of those elements in their own unique ways. 

For instance, ‘Medieval’, leaned into the comedy and the fun, and adventure. By having the Time Bandits arrive in merry old England during medieval times. Wherein our heroes, (and yes, they are heroes… more on that in a moment) managed to save an entire village from annihilation by inspiring the army of the Sheriff of Nottingham to revolt and embrace laziness and well, this really was quite the fun adventure. Thanks to everyone that the Time Bandits encountered in this tale, since they were all a bit undereducated, and that allowed for some wonderful gags to take place, and a wonderful twist involving how legends of dragons might have come to life in medieval times and this episode was wonderfully counterbalanced by ‘Prohibition’.

Since that was the story that leaned a little harder into history lessons. Mainly because, it plunged the Time Bandits into the heart of Harlem during prohibition. A move that allowed for Kevin to educate his friends (and the audience) on what the era was like, what it was all about, and it also allowed for us to explore a new angle regarding prohibition. Since the vast majority of stories regarding this period in time usually focus on the battles that took place in Chicago over prohibition and Eliot Ness’ fight to clean the town up and bring down Al Capone. So, it was quite refreshing to be immersed in this world and learn a bit about its dynamics, and still enjoy some comedy as well. Courtesy of the whole ‘Babyface’ twist involving Kevin.

But while those two plotlines would have been enough to offer up adventure and learning, there were still more amazing moments to be found in this story. Since we came to learn that Kevin’s sister, Saffron, finally discovered that something sinister happened in the house, and she discovered the portals and has been chasing Kevin through time… with mixed results of course. Plus, we also came to learn, that the Supreme Being has a shocking plan He is working to put into motion. In that, He is ready to wipe out Earth and start over because of our misgivings and missteps. All of which could influence Pure Evil to fight harder to have the map, since it is the key to cleaning out human life on Earth.

Which does leave us to wonder… whether SB is baiting PE into a trap or if he genuinely wants to empty out the planet and start over, because that ups the stakes, and would force the Time Bandits to lean into heroism like never before and speaking of that… it was a real treat to see them… be heroes. Because that’s who they are deep down, since they performed kind act after kind act here and stood tall in the face of trouble in the name of the greater good. In the end however, these were just two amazing episodes from one amazing series. One that continues to impress and continues to draw us into its wonder, and well… this does indeed leave us eager for more. To enjoy more of what we saw here, because this formula works and it’s keeping us engaged and it has us wondering… what this unique story is building toward now that we know good, and evil are plotting against all of mankind. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Series Premiere of ‘Women in Blue (Las Azules)’.
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Each and every one of us like to believe that our dream job or the one that calls to us, will provide us with the peace we so desperately search for in this life. For it is what we seek, what our soul desires, and that means it should provide our soul with the nourishment it needs and give us the joy we crave and of course… pad our bank account with the security we’ve always wanted for that. So, we chase that dream with gusto and grab hold of it tight, only to learn… that it is not the miracle we always thought it would be. For there are some hard realities that accompany stepping into the world we believe will fix everything.

In that, it comes with the same nonsense that any other job comes with. For while it is a dream for us, it is not a dream for everyone. For them it is a job, and they will treat it accordingly. Not to mention, there are rules and regulations to this new world we didn’t think about, and we must learn to navigate them in the early days before we can begin to settle in and move our way to the top and it is those early first days that determine who will continue to chase their dream or leave it to find another. Since we also sometimes learn that what we chase is not for us, and well, this reality is top of mind today, because it serves as one of the central focuses of the new Apple TV+ series, Women in Blue (Las Azules).

For this series premiere takes us through that process, by introducing us to four women in Mexico in 1971 who are… lost and searching for a dream. One that falls into all of their laps. For a directive from the president of the nation, a newly installed leader, demands that equality be seen throughout Mexico City. Which involves allowing women to serve in the police force. Which gives four women a dream to chase after, and more. For María, this is a chance to be more than a trophy for her husband, and for Valentina, this is her chance to enact change in a world that needs it. For Gabina, this is a chance to be part of the family legacy of police work and be seen as more, and for Ángeles, this is her opportunity to use her unique mental skill set to make a difference.

Which brings all of them to chase this dream in ‘María’ and ‘Paola’ and early on, yes, they find fulfilment and find joy in doing the work and being able to wear the badge. But soon… the hard wakeup call arrives. That the police department in Mexico City is not the joyous place one might expect since there are grizzled officers around them, and sexism abound. Since they aren’t even granted weapons on active duty and are seen as the publicity stunts, they are. Which brings about one incredible internal battle, regarding whether or not they should stick with the dream or walk away. But the persistence of a serial killer known as the Undresser, and their direct encounter with his work, will change that. Since María begins to realize that she and her sister (Valentina), and their new friends on the force… could perhaps do more with a case that everyday officers and detectives aren’t giving enough attention to.

A plot that truly explores how the grass isn’t always greener on the other side and that sometimes dreams can be frustrating until we settle in. But what truly matters more here, is the sheer fact that this story has more to say outside of the central theme present here. For it clearly is an anthem for the importance of equality in all things. Because sadly, these four women, are seen as second class in every sense of the phrase. Since their dreams are seen as a joke by so many, and their desire to be more and showcase their natural skillset for the job is met often with resistance and disdain, despite the fact they clearly have a better understanding of the moment than some of the detectives on the case.
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Not to mention, once the badge comes off, they are once again without regard and without respect. Which brings about frustration here since clearly, these four women are quite capable officers and see a great deal, and know they are more than just housewives and playthings and scenery. Which likely means we will see them stand tall this season and push back to do what’s right and to showcase their worth and that will make for a satisfying journey for certain. One that will give rise and inspiration to folks that tune in, and this series will also accomplish wonders from a representation standpoint as well. Since it does feature a Latin cast and Spanish is the core language of this series. 

All of which brings forth, a pair of engaging and fascinating tales. That are relevant and poignant and truly speak to the progress we have not made. But at the same time, we are treated to a fascinating case, and a fascinating killer, which invests us further in the story. For this dastardly monster needs to be caught and needs to be brought to justice because of his cruelty and the impact he’s imparting on good people. Since this show also harbors some humanity and realism regarding the emotional fallout of murder and the impact it has on officers of the law as well. All of which invests us deeply in this story and leaves us ready to see how these women grow and show the world their worth, and how they will capture this disgusting monster. Until next time.

One thing that fans of television can agree upon, is that the Acorn TV series, Harry Wild, is nothing short of a phenomenon. For it immediately captivated audiences the instant it hit the airwaves, in large part because of Jane Seymour’s earnest turn as Harry Wild. A former instructor turned private investigator, something she is quite good at, and the cases she solves are as engaging as her career change and that’s brought forth… three amazing seasons of storytelling. Wherein the cases have grown more complex and unique and where we’ve watched Harry, her assistant Fergus, and their families grow before our eyes.
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In fact, there’s been so much growth and so much to enjoy that we’ve simply craved more episodes of this series, to the point where everyone has been waiting upon pins and needles to hear if a fourth season will come to fruition and well, at last, we now know. For earlier today, Acorn TV announced that not only is season four a go, but it is in production now in Dublin, Ireland. Which is just magnificent news, since it means we get to enjoy more adventures with Harry and Fergus, and more of those amazing cases and to properly celebrate this news, here are all the details on this renewal, and some production announcement photos, courtesy of Acorn TV.

‘Acorn TV, AMC Networks’ acclaimed streaming service specializing in international mystery, dramas and comedies, today announced the renewal of Harry Wild for a fourth season. Star and executive producer Jane Seymour (The Kominsky Method, Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman, B Positive) will reprise her role as Harry Wild, the titular amateur detective in the Irish mystery series that was a breakout success for Acorn TV in its first season and has maintained its status as a top performer for the platform in its second and third seasons. Production has just begun in Dublin, Ireland.

“We’re thrilled to be kicking off production on a fourth season of Harry Wild with our fantastic cast and crew in Ireland,” said Catherine Mackin, Managing Director, Acorn Media Enterprises. “With this series, the delightful Jane Seymour has become a beloved member of the Acorn TV family, we can’t wait to see what Harry has up her sleeve this season and what mysteries she will solve in her own unique way.”

Season four picks up a year after season three, and business couldn’t be better at the Wild/Reid Detective Agency as Harry and Fergus (Rohan Nedd, Whitstable Pearl) welcome an unexpected client: Charlie Wild (Kevin Ryan, Guilt, Copper). Elsewhere, Harry is hired by a friend and former wild child turned nun, Lola (Rose O’Neill) stumbles upon a dance school mystery, a Dublin literary tour takes a bloody turn and more. Meanwhile, Fergus’ hopes of going to college at the same time as Lola are threatened when she gets an incredible offer to study abroad.

Also reprising their roles are Samantha Mumba (The Time Machine, Evolution), as Fergus’ mother Paula Kenny, and Paul Tylak (Kin) as Glenn Talbot. 

Harry Wild is produced by Dynamic Television. Acorn Media Enterprises co-produces alongside ZDF. Season Four is created and written by David Logan, along with writer Jo Spain, directed by Robin Quinn, and executive produced by Logan, Spain, Jane Seymour, Daniel March, Klaus Zimmermann, James Gibb, David McLoughlin, Catherine Mackin and Bea Tammer. Frank Seyberth and Claus Wunn executive produce for ZDF.

About Acorn TV
AMC Networks’ Acorn TV is North America’s largest streaming service specializing in premium British and international television. Acorn TV adds exclusive programming every week to a deep library of revered mysteries, dramas, and comedies – all commercial-free. Acorn TV’s recent slate is comprised of critically acclaimed commissioned and original series including popular New Zealand detective series My Life Is Murder (Lucy Lawless), acclaimed Irish crime thriller Bloodlands (James Nesbitt, co-executive produced by Jed Mercurio), British crime drama Whitstable Pearl (Kerry Godliman), Kiwi romantic comedy Under the Vines and British detective drama Dalgliesh (Bertie Carvel), to name a few. Current and upcoming Acorn TV Original Series include UK detective drama Harry Wild (Jane Seymour), Signora Volpe (Emilia Fox), The Chelsea Detective (Adrian Scarborough) and many more. The above add to a growing catalog of popular bingeable dramas including Jack Irish (Guy Pearce), Doc Martin (Martin Clunes), Deadwater Fell (David Tennant, Cush Jumbo), all 24 seasons of fan-favorite Midsomer Murders and highly-rated drama The Nest, among others.
 
“glorious streaming service… an essential must-have” – The Hollywood Reporter
“Netflix for the Anglophile” – NPR
 
Acorn TV is available for $7.99/month or $79.99/year. Facebook: OfficialAcornTV – Twitter: @AcornTV – Instagram: @Acorn_tv
 
About Dynamic Television
Dynamic Television is an independent production and distribution company with a global strategy to bring premium television programming to worldwide audiences. Dynamic just wrapped production on HARRY WILD Season 3 starring Jane Seymour for Acorn and ZDF and recently delivered the critically acclaimed DROPS OF GOD for AppleTV+.  Dynamic is also in production on Netflix’s GINNY & GEORGIA, now in Season 3 and the highly rated crime procedural THE SOMMERDAHL MURDERS in Season 5.  Previous series include VAN HELSING and DAY OF THE DEAD for Syfy; the hit Icelandic series TRAPPED; and ABC Australia’s #1 new show SAVAGE RIVER starring Katherine Langford.
 
About ZDF
ZDF (Zweites Deutsches Fernsehen) is Germany’s national public television broadcaster. It is run as an independent non-profit corporation under the authority of the Länder, the sixteen states that constitute the Federal Republic of Germany.
 
The nationwide channel ZDF has been broadcasting since 1st April 1963 and remains one of the country’s leading sources of information. Today, ZDF also operates the two thematic channels ZDFneo and ZDFinfo. In partnership with other public broadcasters, ZDF jointly operates the internet-only offer funk, the German channels PHOENIX and KiKA, and the European channels 3sat and ARTE.’

Please enjoy this super-sized sneak peek and synopsis of the next two episodes of Time Bandits, which debut on Apple TV+, tomorrow!

Episode 3: “Medieval”: 
The Bandits pose as dragon slayers in England and feel the wrath of a wicked sheriff. Saffron embarks on her own search for answers.
 
Episode 4: “Prohibition”:
Kevin and the Bandits run for their lives during New York’s Harlem Renaissance. Saffron and an ally work to outwit enemies in Japan.

It is definitely safe to say that the hit Acorn TV series, Under the Vines, has been one of the most refreshing shows to hit the airwaves in years. For this story, which debuted shortly after the chaos of the pandemic, served as the anthesis to the bad vibes that accompanied that period in time. By offering a story that showcased how we go on, and how we reinvent ourselves after crises or trying times. A move that truly offered hope and that, combined with realistic characters and a whimsical setting that allowed for lighter moments in life to take place… truly sucked us into this world and has left us starving for more, especially after that amazing season two finale.
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Well, as it turns out, behind the scenes a third season has been commissioned and assembled, and the time has come to release it to the loyal fans of this refreshing and uplifting series. For earlier today, Acorn TV let it be known that the highly anticipated third season of Under the Vines will arrive on the network on August 19th, along with releasing some details about season three, and a trailer to boot. All of which we will share with you now. So that you can start the countdown to year three of a series that is once again reaching us at just the right time, for now more than ever, we need to be reminded of the beauty of life, and how best to embrace it when we’ve been through so much.

‘Acorn TV’s romantic comedy-drama Under The Vines will return with two episodes on Monday, August 19 in the US, Canada, UK (including Northern Ireland) and Australia, with additional episodes dropping weekly on the platform. Starring Rebecca Gibney (Wanted, Packed to the Rafters, Halifax: Retribution) as former Sydney socialite Daisy Monroe and Charles Edwards (Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, The Crown, Downton Abbey) as ex-London lawyer Louis Oakley, the 6-episode third season follows the pair as they continue to run the small vineyard Oakley Wines in Central Otago, New Zealand, while navigating their complicated love lives.
 
Six months on from when we last saw them, Daisy (Gibney) and Louis (Edwards) are trying to oust William (Mark Mitchinson, My Life Is Murder), the mysterious stranger who arrived at the end of Season 2 claiming half of Oakley. But it seems the annoying shanty-singer’s claim might be legitimate, so the Oakley crew must get crafty in their bid to oust him. Especially as he seems to be ingratiating himself into the lives of their rivals Don (John Bach, The Sounds) and Marissa (Sara Peirse, Love Me) at Shimmering Lake.
 
On top of that, Daisy has a ton of other distractions. There’s her wedding with David (Kirk Torrance, Testify) to plan; “heart parent” duties for Nic (Carrie Green, Mystic) and Vic’s (Allan Henry, After the Party) impending birth; Tippy (Trae Te Wiki, Shortland Street) doesn’t want to talk about a new change in her life; and even Louis seems distracted after his rebuffed declaration of love. That’s a lot to process as we count down to Daisy’s big day…
 
Under The Vines is Executive Produced by Rebecca Gibney, Richard Fletcher for Libertine Pictures, Brendan Dahill for Perpetual Entertainment (formerly known as EQ Media Group) and Produced by Paul Yates. Acorn Media Enterprises, Acorn TV’s London-based development division, co-produces. Season 3 is directed by Erin White (Episodes 1-3) and Laurence Wilson (Episodes 4-6) and written by Kelly Lefever, Erin White, Nick Ward, Kathryn Burnett, Harry McNaughton, and Steph Matuku.
 
About Acorn TV
AMC Networks’ Acorn TV is North America’s largest streaming service specializing in premium British and international television. Acorn TV adds exclusive programming every week to a deep library of revered mysteries, dramas, and comedies – all commercial-free. Acorn TV’s recent slate is comprised of critically acclaimed commissioned and original series including popular New Zealand detective series My Life Is Murder (Lucy Lawless), acclaimed Irish crime thriller Bloodlands (James Nesbitt, co-executive produced by Jed Mercurio), British crime drama Whitstable Pearl (Kerry Godliman), Kiwi romantic comedy Under the Vines and British detective drama Dalgliesh (Bertie Carvel), to name a few. Current and upcoming Acorn TV Original Series include UK detective drama Harry Wild (Jane Seymour), Signora Volpe (Emilia Fox), The Chelsea Detective (Adrian Scarborough) and many more. The above add to a growing catalog of popular bingeable dramas including Jack Irish (Guy Pearce), Doc Martin (Martin Clunes), Deadwater Fell (David Tennant, Cush Jumbo), all 24 seasons of fan-favorite Midsomer Murders and highly-rated drama The Nest, among others.
 
“glorious streaming service… an essential must-have” – The Hollywood Reporter
“Netflix for the Anglophile” – NPR
 
Acorn TV is available for $7.99/month or $79.99/year. Facebook: OfficialAcornTV – Twitter: @AcornTV – Instagram: @Acorn_tv’

There is an unfortunate belief in our modern world that so many hold to. In that, there is a consensus that modern humanity has made incredible progress when it comes to equality, when in fact… we’ve only made baby steps. After all, the United States is only a good fifty some years removed from seeing African Americans treated as second-class citizens and even then, there are still massive struggles in America to see everyone as outright equal. And even then… that is quite debatable, since those prejudices still manifest in America, and sadly, there are prejudices and racism like that abound around the globe. Not to mention… we also collectively believe that women are indeed treated equally in this world, and they are in fact, not. 
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For women are still paid less than men to do the same job, if not a more responsible one, and while there are indeed women in positions of power, those are far and few between since it is a man’s world in such matters. Not to mention, there are still so many stereotypes and stigmas that surround women. For so many still wrongfully claim that women are ‘too emotional’ and so man feel a woman should always focus on having children over a career, and this is despite women finally being able to vote after centuries of fighting for that, and well… that ‘progress’ we’ve supposedly made only gets worse when one thinks about the backwards steps happening in America. To the point where even a potential presidential nominee is taking flak for not having made children a priority over being second in line for the most powerful office on the planet. All of which leaves us wondering, how do we find a way forward and make progress on something as fundamental as understanding that we are all created equally?

Well stories are indeed one way, simply because they can give us incredible perspective and understanding when done right and this Wednesday, Apple TV+ is going to be home to a series that offers understanding and a chance for us to reflect on why equality is so utterly important and that makes Women in Blue (Las Azules) quite the poignant series. One that takes us back in time to Mexico City in the early 1970s. Wherein there was chaos in the government during a change over and in the streets with protests demanding equal rights, and fear ran rampant thanks to a serial killer operating in the city. Which prompts a bold move. Wherein the police force adds women to their ranks for the first time ever to provide the image of equality and progress, and stability. But soon, four new women of the law learn, their hiring is nothing short of a stunt and if they want this important moment in history to be more, it will be up to them to make it that, by perhaps capturing that brutal serial killer. 

Which is… the perfect way to explore… the little bit of progress that we’ve made. Since so much of what we see here, reflects 2024 by way of its characters. Since María is nothing more than a tool for her husband, one that keeps the family together while he screws around. And there is her sister,
Valentina, a woman seen as a rebel for wanting equality and decried for that. There’s also Gabina, the only daughter in a police family and she wants nothing more than to carry the family business along, despite what the men in her family say and there’s Ángeles, a brilliant forensics agent that is on the spectrum and forgotten because she can be seen as different. And their struggles and their lives, help us to understand… how stupid it is for us to see these four women as anything but equals since it is clear here the way we handle equality stymies imagination and desires to be more in this world, and skills and ideas that contribute, and that makes for a poignant and important story that truly does offer perspective, and more. 

Because the serial killer plot line, not only allows for us to understand why all should be given the chance to do good… but it also brings forth a fascinating story. One that is engaging and well written, since it provides us and the Women in Blue a stellar case to explore. One that plays out akin to a modern crime drama with its tension and thrills and wonderful twists and turns. But make no mistake about it, that ties wonderfully into the central theme since it lets these women shine, but it definitely engages and entertains and allows for the message to never overwhelm so we properly come to understand the importance of this moment and the message at hand. But while that makes for a masterful story that is eye-opening and leaves one with plenty to think upon when an episode ends, it still has more wonders to send our way.

After all, this is a show set in Mexico, and that means it features a Latin cast and Spanish as the primary language and that too… is huge. Because we don’t see that, all that often in mainstream entertainment, but it is here, and it provides us with wonderful representation and groundbreaking moments for Latin people at an important time in television history, where we are finally seeing audiences demand more from their entertainment. All of which brings forth a revolutionary television series that provides so much, and it all comes together thanks to quality writing and guidance from series creator and showrunner, Fernando Rovzar, and amazing acting from Bárbara Mori (María), Ximena Sariñana (Gabina), Amorita Rasgado (Ángeles), and Natalia Téllez (Valentina). Who sell the moment and sell the reality that we have so far to go when it comes to equality, and the best news of all is that we are so close to enjoying this amazing series. For Women in Blue (Las Azules) debuts on Apple TV+ this Wednesday with a two-hour premiere, and we cannot wait for you to see it, nor can we wait to share our interviews with Fernando and Bárbara, Ximena, Amorita, and Natalia as we count down the days to the premiere of this outstanding series.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 402 of ‘Snowpiercer’. To revisit the Season Four Premiere, click here.
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It is definitely safe to say that fans of the iconic AMC series, Snowpiercer, had a lot of questions on their minds after that incredible season four premiere. Such as… who on earth were those strange soldiers led by a man named Milius? And why was it so important for them to board the Snowpiercer? Not to mention, what are they up to? And what do they want? Because it’s a big deal that one of the most precious trains ever made was boarded and it is also a huge deal that these soldiers have found their way to New Eden as well. Thankfully though, rather than drag that out, the next episode of this incredible series… took the time to address some of those questions, while also… revealing the stakes for this final season.

Which are feats that ‘The Sting of Survival’ accomplished… by taking us back in time. For nine months ago, as the good souls on Snowpiercer lamented the breakup of humanity and pondered upon what became of Big Alice and her human cargo… a surprise arrived. One that came in the form of a missile launched into the sky, that quickly exploded and left the debris that made Till and Ben so nervous last week. And well, those nerves were justified. Since Milius and his team used that as a distraction to slow the train and get aboard and once they were inside its warm corridors, did chaos and fear ensue. Since Milius shot Till to send a message before storming the engine. Wherein he was able to take control of the train and move it toward an unknown destination.

That of course, led to great conflict and unrest. The kind that saw Milius try to kill a hundred people in the Market by breaching the hull of the train and where Melanie had to resort to extreme measures to try and save the train. Wherein she outright changed the air intake in the engine control room to force the doors open and she was ready to open fire to reclaim what was hers in order to save those innocent lives. Which thankfully, she was able to do without any more blood being shed, but alas… her response time in getting this done, didn’t allow for her to fully reclaim the train. Since it reached its destination: a mysterious bunker. One that finally offered up answers and understanding and shockingly… a sense of hope.

For Milius finally explained that he was the Admiral of a United Nations International Peacekeeping Force, and the Snowpiercer was being commandeered to well, save all of humanity. For an old friend of Melanie’s, Dr. Nima Rosseau, claimed to have the cure to the never-ending winter. For he and his associates, under Admiral Milius’ protection, had figured out how to counter CW-7 in the atmosphere and had tested their compound in the wild. Which was why places like New Eden existed and well, since the Snowpiercer touched all corners of the world, they needed the train’s help in distributing the CW-7 counteragent into the air in other parts of the globe, to save mankind, and well… that was enough to prompt Melanie to worry less about the aggressive tactics this agency used to seize the train, and embrace the future and embrace the plan to warm the Earth.
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All of which made it seem as though, this was indeed a misunderstanding from a meathead of a soldier, sorry, Admiral. But alas, the next nine months aboard the train, were hard and not joyous and seemed to signal trouble, the kind that found its way to New Eden. Which was why Audrey made that brave voyage to the town, to tell this very story and well… just like that… answers came forth. Since now we know an aggressive arm of government and science remnant did all of this for the greater good, and yes, the cause is noble. Because it could bring humanity back from the brink and clearly… that will be the endgame of the final season. For something that big cannot be ignored, especially since the science works as evidenced by New Eden, and those are some high stakes, the kind though, that are in peril and are surrounded by danger.

Because clearly, Milius is a bit mad, and his soldiers, and the weird black cloud that hides in their suits… are all matters of concerns. As is his decision to do what he’s done at New Eden. Leaving all of us to wonder what Milius has in mind at this point and whether or not he is friend or foe. But while we wait to see how that shakes out, we can celebrate one amazing episode. One that truly offered us hope, wrapped in the foil of one epic tale. Because this one kept us on the edge of our seats and left us wondering if more death was on the horizon since in a final season, all bets are off. But for now, people are indeed alive, and the stage is set for quite the final season. One that might see mankind return to the cities it once built, provided all the nonsense and fear present here can be overcome.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Six of ‘Orphan Black: Echoes’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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It is definitely safe to say that last week’s episode of Orphan Black: Echoes on AMC, AMC+, and BBC America, was nothing short of a game changer. Simply because… we came to learn that the crux of this story was grounded in the power of grief. Since Lucy exists because of the fact that Dr. Kira Manning could not handle the death of her beloved Eleanor Miller and well, that not only changes perspective for the audience regarding the tone of the story… but it opens up the opportunity for this story to explore so much more. Such as ponder upon the fallout of such a revelation and it just so happens, that last night’s episode had no problem exploring just that.
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A feat that ‘Unless You Trusted Someone’ accomplished by way of two key storylines, one of which focused upon Lucy. Since her journey here took the time to explore, how someone would reconcile the horrifying truth that they are a clone of someone that passed away from a horrible disease that they now carry genetically and well, this episode realistically informed us… that all one can do at that point… is do one’s best to process the gravity of such revelations and live in the moment. Because really… what else can one do when their fate is in front of them? Which allowed for Lucy to find a little calm over this news, and it motivated her to really work to solidify her relationship with Jack. To own the moment and own the beauty of memories that might fade.

Which made, for a positive exploration of what could happen with such a truth, one that was also empowering since Lucy made it clear that her path and her wants were her own. But of course, every positive exploration harbors a negative one for the world is double sided in that manner and Kira’s journey here spoke to that. Because we came to learn the devastation that grief provided her very soul with, prompted her to make another poor choice. In that, she cloned an adult Eleanor, with Josh’s pressing, in the hopes of being able to recreate her love for the ages and have the second chance she craved. But alas, that move from grief only brought about more trouble and sorrow for Kira, since this revelation led to the most important lessons of all.

In that, we cannot recreate the past, and if we could pull this kind of feat off, nothing would ever be the same. For we know how the story ends and that will hang over us and that… made life miserable for this once joyous couple. Since Kira hammered Eleanor often to take medication to stave off the inevitable and her knowledge of forthcoming doom prompted her to put a wall up emotionally between the woman she loved so deeply. Giving rise to a divide, and even infidelity, instead of unity and thus proving the message at hand and giving rise to a sorrowful next chapter for Kira. One that truly showcased unique dangers related to grief, since it has in many ways created an outright hell for Kira to live through, one from which there is no escape. 
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Yet while it was fascinating to explore such incredible fallout in this story, it did still make sure to advance the plot and move us toward some answers. Such as why Jules was printed by Darros and what he’s up to. Which the show hinted at here through many surprises. One of which involved Jules being kidnapped and taken to the Darros compound, which harbored incredible technology to keep Jules there against her wishes and was designed… to prepare the world for a unique future. One where Darros could live for another generation since he had a clone of himself printed and where clearly, he has plans for Jules. The kind that he will pay any price for and compromise any soul. Since the reveal that Darros paid Josh jillions of dollars to get the tech back up, brought about Josh’s sorrowful end. 

All of which made, for a powerhouse story. One that truly showcased something we don’t see all that often in science fiction. Specifically, consequences for irresponsible actions with technology. For all too often, sci-fi just dives into the moment and reacts accordingly. But here, we were able to see what kind of fallout could arise from this kind of technology and it is grim to say the least. In fact, it is likely safe to say that the back half of season one will dabble in dark territory as everyone reckons with the fallout of grief, of vanity and of the truth about the future, and it will be fascinating to see what lessons come out of all of that as this brilliant story continues along. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Three of ‘Mammals’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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It is outright safe to say, that for a majority of human beings on the planet, water is nothing short of an afterthought. For so many of us see water as a recreational tool, and we don’t give all that much thought to how lucky we are to be able to have so much fresh water to consume and use. And we think that way, simply because the modern world has made it a convenience, when in fact… it is a precious resource that not every human has access to, even in 2024, and wildlife depends upon in ways we simply don’t think about. Which is why this week’s episode of Mammals on BBC America is of note. Simply because ‘Water’ showcased how valuable it is to the animals of the world.

In part by showing us… how land-based mammals depend upon it to eat. For there are macaque monkeys in the world that live near freshwater ponds. For those ponds provide them with lily flowers that have all the caloric content they need to help get them through the seasons, not to mention, beneath the water they can feast upon the seed pods for those very flowers. Making water critical to their survival and they’re not the only ones. For there are coyotes off the coast of Mexico that rely on what washes up from the ocean to feed their pack, and this works so well that it is indeed commonplace to see them watching and waiting and searching for a meal. Making it clear how important water is to survival for land-based animals on Earth and of course… there are plenty who live in the water that make use of its bounty to thrive.

Since there are dolphins out there who travel about in a pod and find the right area within the waters, they traverse… to take part in group activities to feed. Wherein dolphins use their tales to kick up dirt to confuse and corral their prey so they can enjoy a meal and thrive, and you’ll also find seals from Galapagos that venture away from the shores for teamwork feeding. For they will work with other predators, that corral and control schools of fish to enjoy their bounties. All of which serves as fine reminder of how the water provides for the animals of the world that live inside of it, and this segment of the story showcased how dangerous life in the water, can be as well. Since we learned that some of the predators of the world know to hang out near where some of these animals live, to take full advantage of the weak.

Such as the pods of killer whales that outright hunt the young humpback whales that are born in the world. For they know exactly where they and their mother are at their most vulnerable and confuse the mother to pull the baby away and feast, and since the humpback whale population is growing again… they have plenty to eat. If anything, this final leg of our exploration of mammals in the water just outright showcased how mammals thrive in the water and how they will continue to do so for generations and ages on end. Since all of these species have settled into routine and patterns of survival, and for proof… just look at those killer whales and the sperm whales that go through familiar motions to raise their young.

In the end, this was simply a fascinating tale. One that really did offer up a grand lesson in how critical water is to life on Earth. Since it clearly gives every mammal on this planet, be them land-based, hybrid or outright ocean species… every chance to thrive, and without water… one can only wonder how quickly the beauty of these animals would be lost. Which speaks to how we need to make sure to stop taking water for granted and protect it and expand access to it. Because it really is the core building block of life on this planet and without it, all would perish. All of which served as a fine reminder of how delicate life on Earth truly is, and how lucky we are to be part of it and to have something so critical in abundance. Until next time.