Please enjoy a sneak peek of the season seven mid-season finale of ‘Outlander’. Which arrives tomorrow, 8/11/23 on STARZ!  

Also, this sneak peek was assembled/written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.

This piece was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.

It is definitely safe to say, that fans of the Power Universe, and fans of good television in general… cannot wait for the return of the STARZ series, Power Book IV: Force. Simply because season one was an outright masterpiece. For it featured everything we wanted and more from a show revolving around the one, the only, THE Tommy Egan. Since this series finally put him in the spotlight and let Joseph Sikora shine as the character, he made famous in the original Power saga. But the wonder of this show didn’t end there.
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Because season one also featured amazing drama and epic action and a real sense of danger, something that is essential to a high-octane crime series, and well… those reasons are precisely why fans are counting down the days to Tommy’s return on September 1st.  Because they full well know, we’re going to get more of everything we loved in season one, and well… that anticipation is only going to grow after today’s gift from STARZ. For earlier, the network released the full trailer for season two of Power Book IV: Force, and well… it’s a doozy. And STARZ was courteous enough to share it with us, alongside some new gallery images, and some updated plot details, so we can share it all with you, to help you properly count down the minutes to the return of Tommy Egan.

‘STARZ released today the high-octane trailer for season two of “Power Book IV: Force,” along with dynamic gallery images and key art for the highly anticipated drama series. Season two of STARZ’s scripted drama “Power Book IV: Force,” returns on Friday, September 1 at midnight ET on the STARZ app, all STARZ streaming and on-demand platforms and internationally on the LIONSGATE+ premium streaming platform across the UK and Ireland. On linear, it will debut on STARZ at 8 PM ET/PT in the U.S. and Canada.
 
Nothing stands in Tommy Egan’s way this season as he makes his play at becoming the sole drug distributor in Chicago. Alliances form and competitors become targets as a turf war heats up and Tommy must race to stay one step ahead of everyone. Meanwhile, a federal task force is zeroed in on him and he has an eye on a special someone, forcing him to decide what he is willing to sacrifice to claim Chicago as his.    
 
Season two of “Force” stars Joseph Sikora (“Power,” “Ozark”) as “Tommy Egan,” Isaac Keys (“Get Shorty,” “The Oath”) as “Diamond Sampson,” Lili Simmons (“Banshee,” “Ray Donovan”) as “Claudia Flynn,” Shane Harper (“Hightown,” “A Teacher”) as “Vic Flynn,” Kris D. Lofton (“Ballers,” “Snowfall”) as “Jenard Sampson,” Carmela Zumbado (“You,” “Chicago PD”) as “Mireya Garcia,” Manuel Eduardo Ramirez (“Snowfall,” “Queen of the South”) as “Miguel Garcia,” Miriam A. Hyman (“The Chi,” “The Laundromat”) as “US Attorney Stacy Marks,” Adrienne Walker (“Law & Order: Organized Crime,” “FBI”) as “Shanti ‘Showstopper’ Page,” Anthony Fleming III (“Prison Break,” “The Beast”) as “JP,” Lucien Cambric (“Chicago P.D.,” “The Chi”) as “D-Mac,” and Tommy Flanagan (“Sons of Anarchy,” Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2) as “Walter Flynn.”
 
“Power Book IV: Force” is the third series in the expanded “Power” Universe franchise. Gary Lennon (“Power,” “Euphoria”) serves as showrunner and executive producer for season two. The “Power” Universe series is executive produced by the creator and showrunner of the original “Power,” Courtney A. Kemp through her production company End of Episode, Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson through G-Unit Film and Television, and Mark Canton through Atmosphere Entertainment MM.  Terri Kopp and Chris Selak also serve as executive producers.  Lionsgate Television produces the series for STARZ. 
 
ABOUT “POWER BOOK IV: FORCE” – SEASON 2
After cutting ties in New York, Tommy Egan’s newfound family and ruthless drug game enticed him to stay in Chicago. The explosive second season begins with Tommy on a mission to avenge the death of Lilliana, his former nemesis turned business partner.  With the Flynn organization weakened, he’s more determined than ever to take over the Chicago drug world, but with CBI split down the middle, Tommy and Diamond first must maintain their edge over Jenard. As their factions feud in the streets, Tommy capitalizes on another rivalry between the Serbs and Miguel Garcia, the most formidable drug lord in Chicago. After setting off a chain reaction of violence in pursuit of his ambition, Tommy must race to stay ahead of the men who are coming for what’s theirs, a federal task force that’s closing ranks, and a sadistic supplier with a direct line to the Cartel. All the while torn by the promise of a second chance with his blood family, Tommy must decide what he is willing to sacrifice to finally ascend the throne of a kingpin.

FOLLOW “POWER BOOK IV: FORCE” ON SOCIAL
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Join the conversation with #PowerForce #PowerUniverse and #STARZ 

About STARZ 
STARZ (www.starz.com), a Lionsgate company, is a leading global media streaming platform committed to delivering premium content that amplifies narratives by, about and for women and underrepresented audiences. STARZ is home to the highly rated and first-of-its-kind STARZ app that offers the ability to stream or download STARZ premium content, as well as the flagship domestic STARZ® service, including STARZ ENCORE, 17 premium pay TV channels, and the associated on-demand and online services. In 2018, STARZ launched its international premium streaming platform STARZPLAY, now LIONSGATE+, to provide subscribers access to bold, curated storytelling. LIONSGATE+, coupled with the STARZPLAY ARABIA joint venture in MENA and Lionsgate Play in South and Southeast Asia, has a footprint that extends across the globe. STARZ and LIONSGATE+ are available across digital OTT platforms and multichannel video distributors, including cable operators, satellite television providers, and telecommunications companies around the world. In February 2021, STARZ launched #TakeTheLead, a multi-faceted and innovative inclusion initiative expanding its existing efforts to improve representation on screen, behind the camera and throughout the company. 
 
About Lionsgate 
Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF.A, LGF.B) encompasses world-class motion picture and television studio operations aligned with the STARZ premium global subscription platform to bring a unique and varied portfolio of entertainment to consumers around the world. The Company's film, television, subscription and location-based entertainment businesses are backed by an 18,000-title library and a valuable collection of iconic film and television franchises. A digital age company driven by its entrepreneurial culture and commitment to innovation, the Lionsgate brand is synonymous with bold, original, relatable entertainment for audiences worldwide.’

Truly, there are few modern franchises that have captivated audiences quite like the world of John Wick. For this stylish and intricate action series simply took the world by storm when it debuted, and audiences have simply been ravenous for more of John’s harrowing and sometimes tragic tale. All so they can be treated to more of the wondrous action and unique assassins this franchise provides and well… our desire to enjoy as much of this universe as possible is bringing forth a steady expansion of it, one that we are finally getting a good look at, courtesy of what Peacock sent our way today.

For earlier, Peacock dropped a bevy of gifts regarding the highly anticipated new series, The Continental: From the World of John Wick. A prequel series that shows how that iconic hotel came to be the central nexus for the assassins that populate this world, and well… what Peacock unveiled today is quite the delight. For now we have key art, first look images and a trailer for the show to enjoy, and since you’re a huge fan of the John Wick franchise, and have been curious as to what this series is going to look like, here are all those of goodies for you to enjoy. Along with some notes from the creative brain trust, along with some updated details on the show, all courtesy of Peacock, to help you count down the days to the next chapter in this beloved franchise.

NOTE FROM ALBERT HUGHES – DIRECTOR (NIGHTS 1 & 3) / EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
Everyone loves escapism in cinema.  As a filmmaker I wanted to honor the spirit of escapism and excitement from the film series while introducing new fans to a hyper-stylized world they’ve never seen before.  

Together executive producer/writer Kirk Ward and I had several goals - to explore the backstories of familiar Wick characters, introduce new and exciting ones, dig deeper into the rules and mythology while expanding the physical scope of The Continental, showing fans areas of the iconic hotel they’ve never seen before. Kirk and I had the time of our lives creating this impressionistic spin on New York in the 70s. Even the soundtrack became a character in itself and reflects all that is American culture - a tapestry of distinct identities and experiences pieced together to create something truly unique.  

Early on in our process we wrote the words “Disco Noir” on the wall. It was emblematic of the experience we wanted to create. Music filled our work room and became the heartbeat of this show as we took turns sharing our favorite tracks from our youth. Each song is more distinct from the next as we come from different worlds, creating a soundtrack featuring the most eclectic mix of needle drops with genres ranging from classic rock, pop, punk, funk, R&B, soul, reggae and disco.

The challenge for me was capitalizing on television’s ability to deliver longer form storytelling and deeper character arcs. We found this format to be an exciting opportunity to create three feature films that balance storytelling and interesting idiosyncratic characters while giving the hardcore Wick fans more of what they love - original high-octane action. We can’t wait for you to see what we’ve all been working on; we believe it is great television at its best. 
 
NOTE FROM BASIL IWANYK – EXECUTIVE PRODUCER 
Twelve years ago Thunder Road started filming a small, below-the-radar film called John Wick. Hopes were muted: Directed by two ex-stuntmen, and its premise was potentially the goofiest in film history. Keanu avenging a puppy’s death!? We were doomed.  

Yet this is why we play the game. It hit a chord that none of us anticipated. Yes, people love Keanu. And the action was awesome. What we didn’t see coming was how much the audience loved the world, its rules, the swagger, the craziness, and the rogue’s gallery of villains and (kinda) good guys. All those roads led to one place, the epicenter and beating heart of the franchise: the hotel called The Continental, led by two of the franchise’s greatest characters, Winston and Charon.  

The four Wick films take place over a 3 month span. John is either chasing, or being chased. There has been no time to take a breath, to allow the audience to dig deeper into the world and its denizens. In our show, The Continental, we finally have space to explore these characters, how they became who they are, and how The Continental became the epicenter of this world. Combine that with introducing new characters that are as compelling as any in the John Wick universe. Action that’s crazy cool and inventive. Easter eggs that will excite the hardcore Wick fans. And what I love the most: a vision of ‘70s New York that embodies the sexiness, edginess, and visceral style that the franchise is known for. This show will look/sound/smell cooler than any show out there.  

In making the films, we always reminded ourselves, “we have no rules, just make it badass”.  We brought that mantra onto The Continental, and I’m proud to say that Albert and Kirk delivered on that promise. Hope you dig the show as much as I do. 
 
ABOUT THE SERIES
SERIES DESCRIPTION:
The three-part event will explore the origin behind the iconic hotel-for-assassins centerpiece of the John Wick universe through the eyes and actions of a young Winston Scott, as he’s dragged into the Hell-scape of 1970’s New York City to face a past he thought he’d left behind. Winston charts a deadly course through the hotel’s mysterious underworld in a harrowing attempt to seize the hotel where he will eventually take his future throne.   

Premiere Date/Rollout:
NIGHT 1 - Friday, September 22
NIGHT 2 - Friday, September 29 
NIGHT 3 - Friday, October 6 
Developed, Written and Executive Produced by: Greg Coolidge, Kirk Ward, Shawn Simmons
Writers: Greg Coolidge, Kirk Ward, Ken Kristensen, Shawn Simmons  
Executive Producers: Thunder Road Pictures’ Basil Iwanyk and Erica Lee, Albert Hughes, Kirk Ward, Greg Coolidge, Chad Stahelski, Derek Kolstad, David Leitch, Shawn Simmons, Paul Wernick, Rhett Reese and Marshall Persinger 
Directors: Albert Hughes (Nights 1 & 3), Charlotte Brandstrom (Night 2)
Studio: Lionsgate 
Principal Cast: Mel Gibson, Colin Woodell, Mishel Prada, Ben Robson, Hubert Point-Du Jour, Nhung Kate, Jessica Allain, Ayomide Adegun, Jeremy Bobb, Peter Greene

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 203 of ‘Almost Paradise’. To revisit the previous episode, click here. Also, this piece was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.
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Stories that focus deeply on starting over in life, tend to focus on the emotional journey that accompanies that act and rightfully so. After all, if one feels the need to hit the reset button and start from scratch, there’s something emotional going on there. A need to cleanse one’s soul really, so it is best that the story hold to that so the audience can see what that kind of journey is like, and of course… enjoy a happy ending when the character finally settles comfortably in a new chapter in their lives. Which does make for a satisfying story, one that ends happy for certain, and also… sadly... does a bit of disservice to the audience as well. Because while it is nice to know that a fresh start is possible, there’s more to come once the new chapter begins.
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For there is still self-work that has to come into play to maintain the good since the work to be better and be more never ends. Not to mention, there’s a sense of real discovery in this new chapter in our lives, since we are working toward learning what keeps us at peace and makes us truly happy. Which is why stories that feature the next steps, should be celebrated and discussed often, since they’re ironically, putting in the work to tell a complete tale, and that’s why this new season of Almost Paradise on Amazon Freevee, is worth spotlighting. For it is in fact, showcasing those elements, as evidenced by its next episode. For ‘A Fisherfolk Tale’ informed us that in order to truly feel at peace, Alex Walker needed to indulge himself and obtain everything he always wanted in this life.

Which was why… Alex bought himself a boat. Because he always wanted to enjoy the calm of the sea, and since he also needed to figure out new income streams to supplement his lifestyle, the boat could also double as a charter to tourists. But of course, there were problems with the boat, and other issues that kept it from being the dream boat he desired to set sail on. But more on that in a moment. Because in between those complications, were some subtle and powerful moments regarding Alex and his quest to really lean into that new chapter in his life. Because he really made the boat a priority in this tale and was determined to have it ready to go. Which really spoke to how dedicated he was to self-work and change, because he knew this would represent progress and fulfill some lifelong dreams and help reinforce the positive aspects of his life. Adding to his character growth this season and it also allowed… for this quest to add a little comic relief to a supremely serious plot line.

Because surrounding Alex’s quest to sail the seven seas, was a brewing family feud. One that involved two families on the island that didn’t trust one another in the slightest and always thought the other family was up to no good. And that distrust was in full swing, courtesy of the fact that one family, the Castros… was dealing with a cancer in their ranks. For Uncle Emilio was framing Alex’s boat mechanic from the rival Romero family, as a murderer, to draw attention away from all the illegal fishing he was conducting in the reefs to make a small fortune in these trying times for fisherman. All of which put the island on the brink of disaster since those families were ready to go to outright war in the name of honor and namesake over Emilio’s lies, and well… thank heavens Alex, Kai and Ernesto were on this case. Since the latter two kept the violence from getting underway and Alex was able to expose Emilio’s illegal machinations. Giving rise to peace on the island and that also got Alex back on his boat.
 
As to whether or not it worked long term, is a story for another day. But in the here and the now, we can celebrate another lovely chapter in the life and times of Alex Walker. Where once again we were treated to balanced storytelling. The kind that allowed for Alex to grow and offer some comic relief along the way, all while important matters were handled on the island and well… this formula is working great, and this writer hopes it doesn’t change. Because it is giving the show a wonderful groove to work with and it is providing everyone with screen time and storylines to take part in. And most important of all, it is allowing for a much more comprehensive story about starting over to take place. One that really is pondering upon what we do when we enter that new chapter, and it will be interesting to see what else Alex will work to obtain to maintain his newfound peace as season two of this brilliant show continues along. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 206 of ‘The Afterparty’. To revisit the previous episode, clickhere. Also, this piece was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.
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The 1990s were a fascinating era for the crime drama and crime thriller, for one reason and one reason alone. Because somewhere, on some random day… a question was asked. Wherein someone wanted to know, what would happen if a crime story was made as sexy and as erotic as possible? Which was a question that piqued interest, and the answer was explored via a bevy of ultra-slick crime thrillers that featured murder and erotica and steamy sex scenes and well, the answer to that question in the end, since these movies came and went pretty fast… was that the end result would be… weird in nature. Not terrible, since those movies are memorable and people talk about them to this day, but they do feature some awkward and wild moments that don’t quite work as well as those creatives might have liked.
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If anything, the spicy erotic crime story is top of mind today, because it was reflected upon and deconstructed and lampooned in the next episode of The Afterparty on Apple TV+. For ‘Danner’s Fire’ was the perfect opportunity to explore why Danner left the force and well, that came about because Danner compromised herself on a critical case. For there was a firebug running around town, setting places ablaze and in order to fully prove her gut instinct that the suspect in custody, was innocent, Danner spent time with the man’s therapist, a Dr. Quentin Devereaux. Who had instant chemistry with Danner and they of course, succumbed to desire and took part in a torrid love affair, that screwed up the case badly for Danner. Because it turned out that the good doctor was the firebug all along and was working to keep his burning desires a secret by pinning his crimes on someone else.

But that love affair caused so much chaos and left Danner in such a despondent place when the truth was revealed, that Quentin was able to escape, so that forced Danner to leave the force in disgrace. Which was… quite the powerful tale to tell since it spoke the fallibility and humanity of the character, adding depth to Danner and urgency to the case, since it could serve as her redemption. But what also made this so compelling, was that this story was that perfect tribute/send-up to those erotic crime thrillers of the 90s. Since it perfectly captured the intensity of them, and of course… it made sure to deeply lampoon the sex scenes. In fact, Danner, and Quentin’s spicy connection in front of the fridge may go down as season two’s funniest scene. Courtesy of their ‘erotic’ use of Elbow Macaroni and the advent of Titty Slapping. All of which brought forth a flawless tribute to those films of old, one that properly celebrated their over-the-top sexuality.

But of course, there’s still a case brewing in this household, one that once again progressed in a unique manner as Danner regaled Aniq with tales of slapping titties. For Travis didn’t like the fact that fingers were being pointed and that such an act was dividing the guests and sowing discontent. So, he set out… to prove that anyone on either ‘side’ could have poisoned Edgar, by making tea with tiny does of Devil’s Trumpet to prove how easy it was to make the poison and how there was a delicate line in the dosage of this dangerous flower. Which led to more hilarity in this tale since Travis did get the dosage right and didn’t die but went on one hell of a hallucinogenic ride in the process. But he did prove his point and disarmed everyone in the process regarding the us vs. them mentality brewing… and he even inspired Zoë to find and hide the teapot that Edgar drank from… since that might have the evidence needed to prove who committed this heinous crime.

But that aside, this really was another amazing episode. Because the laughs came in a fast and furious manner in this story thanks to Danner and Devereaux’s burning love affair, but it also offered great depth and character development for Danner, and she was even able to teach Aniq a lesson in objectivity by telling her titillating tale. Allowing for her to grow and learn from her mistakes and that’s something you don’t see in comedies all that often. But what matters more, is that the case is inching closer to its conclusion and there are clues finally coming into play. And now that we have answers regarding what prompted Danner to leave the force and take this case, a deep dive into those clues and the next suspect is what likely awaits, and it will be interesting to see where the case is headed next now that its top investigator is refocused and ready for redemption. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Two of ‘Black Snow’. To revisit the Series Premiere, click here. Also, this piece was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.
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For the most part, television crime stories that focus on cold cases that are re-opened to bring the truth to light… tend to move at a brisk pace once the stage is set for the mystery ahead, and understandably so. Because in essence, these are types of cases, that don’t feature what we are used to in crime stories. There’s no real action to be found right away, no sense of urgency. There’s just the investigation ahead so why not just let loose and entertain the viewers at home with a powerhouse story that both entertains and satisfies. But while that does indeed make for fine entertainment, it does leave one to wonder… if a slow burning cold case story can be compelling and powerful and it turns out, they most certainly can.
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As evidenced by the next episode of the Sundance Now/AMC Networks series, Black Snow. Because ‘Predators’ just so happened to be a story that focused heavily on the investigation at hand and what that process looks like and that brought forth two key storytelling elements that managed to deeply engage us. One of which… involved showcasing the kind of police work that goes into a cold case investigation. After all, there are no fresh clues, no ticking clock. Just what the past has to offer, and that prompted James Cormack to take his time and go over the evidence with a fine-toothed comb. Which was indeed fascinating to watch since it showed us the care that must go into this kind of case so that the details missed before are made evident and this also allowed, for the other element to come to life.

Because this also involved a bevy of interviews with the townsfolk and the people that knew Isabel best back in the 1990s. Which brought forth, painful memories, the kind that were shown to us via flashbacks Which added depth and meaning to the past and showcased the impact Isabel had upon everyone’s lives and this part of the investigation also dredged up, powerful emotions. Because old friends and family were forced to think about Isabel. Someone that meant the world to them and that brought about waves of emotions as old wounds were reopened and pain was released in the process. All of which showcased how a crime drama of this sort, can make a slow investigation quite impactful. Courtesy of education and by leaning heavily into the long-lasting fallout that grief through loss creates within our souls, and what’s amazing is that the wonder of this story… didn’t end there.

Thanks to James’ incredible attention to detail. Because his pouring over every second of Isabel’s life paid off in spades. Since there were clues to be found in this story that indicated that this was a calculated act, one that took time to plan and execute. For all the old videos taken of Isabel and any other visual evidence she was present within, revealed, the presence of a vehicle of note. One that was basically an old beater that clearly… followed Isabel just about everywhere she went. Which meant the person behind the wheel was indeed a predator of sorts. One that was watching and waiting for an opportunity to strike, and on the fateful night Isabel died, that car was somehow involved in the whole mess and well… that led to quite the cliffhanger. Since James did get a plate and information, and that will lead to a conversation and clearly… there’s more going on here than meets the eye. Courtesy of a reminder of a promise made. 

All of which are elements that assembled, a powerful tale. One that really did showcase that cold case dramas can be quite compelling when great care goes into the writing. Because this was engaging from beginning to end, courtesy of wondrous balance within the script. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that every actor brought their A-game to the table in this story, to sell the pain of the past and the concern of the present. Since all discussions about Isabel are also bringing forth cautious hope and worry that said hope will be shattered. But what matters most, is that the case managed to move forward in an equally as compelling and powerful manner. All through a simple clue and a reality that few of us ever think about when it comes to crime. That it often takes place in plain sight, and it often happens in such a smooth manner that no one notices. But thankfully, someone finally noticed here and now that James has something to work with, it will be interesting to see where this case takes us next.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 204 of ‘The Madame Blanc Mysteries’. To revisit the previous episode, click here. Also, this piece was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.
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It has often been said that money is the root of all evil, and with good reason. Because time and time again, we’ve seen money do incredible things to people. For instance, we’ve seen it transform humble people into arrogant ones since they feel their newfound wealth makes them better than others, and we’ve seen it prompt people to indulge in dark desires. The kind that prompt them to harm others to acquire more money or take part in acts that they normally would not for that fat paycheck and well, the power and ugliness of money is top of mind today, simply because… the next episode of The Madame Blanc Mysteries on Acorn TV, opted to put it on full display, and explore how some in this world are ready to fight back against its power. 
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A feat the story accomplished by having disaster strike at a lovely home that Jeremy and Judith purchased. Wherein murder most foul took place, forcing Jean and Dom to hit the scene to figure out who would kill the wealthy owner of this home, who was still there, waiting to hand over the key. All because there was no rhyme or reason or motive immediately present. But through digging, it quickly became clear… that murder here related to money. Because the owner’s son was being denied the fortune via a Last Will and Testament, and that made it seem as though… he was the guilty party. Because he wanted that fortune and was indeed the type of aggressive man that would go after it, and killing his dad and hiding the will, could have made his dreams come true. All because money was what mattered most to him.

But shockingly, he was not the killer. For the evidence simply didn’t add up, and the person that Caron and Jean originally thought committed to the kill, was also absolved of any wrongdoing. Well, that is… outside of shooting a corpse and being a greedy jerk. Because it was a neighbor that pulled the trigger because she was sleeping with the owner’s son and wanted to help him get the fortune and share in it. Reminding us again of money’s power and how far folks will go to acquire it. But again, she shot a dead man, because in reality… it was the housekeeper that poisoned the victim’s dinner the night before that gunshot rang out. But she didn’t kill out of greed or want, but out of a need for freedom. Because money made that man insufferable and bitter, and he wanted his housekeeper to come live with him in his new abode and well… rather than spend her days dealing with a man that had grown mad over money… she opted to be free.

A move that spoke to the current disdain the world has for the rich and their out of touch attitudes and machinations, and that was fascinating to see play out since it captured the zeitgeist of the times nicely. But this story explored far more than just that, since this story also pondered upon how money can make folks do stupid things in the name of relief. Because Jeremy and Judith had a renter ready to move in, so they asked Dom to take photos of the place and measure it for a handsome sum of money, so they could get the place ready for the renter in record time once the case was closed. And since business was light, and since a competitor came into town to set up shop… he took the money. Which put him in bad standing with Jean since he violated all the rules in going this route and made her look the fool and well… all of these problems came forth because of a need for money, reminding us in a direct manner… how it is indeed the root of all evil.

In the end however, this was quite the brilliant tale when all is said and done. Simply because one could view this as an evolution of the show. Since to date, it really hasn’t offered up any social commentary. But here it was present in spades and really reflected how people feel about the rich in this day and age and how money really has caused great harm in our modern world because of how we prize it. Not to mention, we are vested in the lesson here, largely because of the fact that Jean was hurt deeply in this tale, in a manner that will change the dynamic of her budding love with Dom. And well, now that this fascinating case has come to a close, one can only wonder what comes next for Dom and Jean, now that he’s burned someone he cares deeply for in the name of a quick buck. Until next time.

This piece was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.

It is definitely safe to say that Apple TV+ generated quite the buzz when it released some first look photos for its upcoming series, The Changeling. For that was accompanied by quite the plot synopsis. One that promised a modern, adult fairy tale of sorts, one that was part horror, part magic and all imagination and that… absolutely piques one’s interest. After all, that’s just not the kind of story we see on television all that often, and it left all of us wondering exactly what this story was going to look like, and what kind of vibe it was going to send our way, and well the good news is that our curiosity regarding the show is being satiated at last.

For Apple TV+ has released the trailer for The Changeling, and well, it truly is what was advertised. For it is clearly a surreal story, one that features stunning visuals and heart stopping moments. The kind we would indeed visualize or find in a powerful fairy tale, and it is most certainly geared for adults, and well… to show you that we're not kidding when it comes to our assessment of this series, here is that trailer for you to see, courtesy of Apple TV+, and a refreshed synopsis, to help you begin to count down the days to one unique television show. One that is going to captivate and ignite imaginations with its refreshing story.

‘Apple TV+ today revealed the trailer for “The Changeling,” an upcoming eight-part drama starring and executive produced by Academy Award-nominee LaKeith Stanfield. “The Changeling” will make its global debut with the first three episodes on Friday, September 8, 2023 on Apple TV+, followed by one new episode every Friday through October 13.  

Based on the acclaimed best-selling book of the same name by Victor LaValle, “The Changeling'' is a fairytale for grown-ups. A horror story, a parenthood fable and a perilous odyssey through a New York City you didn’t know existed. In addition to Stanfield, the series stars Clark Backo, Adina Porter, Samuel T. Herring, Alexis Louder, Jared Abrahamson, and special guest star Malcolm Barrett.

“The Changeling” is written and adapted by showrunner and executive producer Kelly Marcel, and the pilot episode was directed by Melina Matsoukas.

The series is produced by Apple Studios and Annapurna. Megan Ellison, Patrick Chu and Ali Krug are executive producers on behalf of Annapurna. Showrunner Kelly Marcel, the book’s author Victor LaValle, David Knoller, and director Jonathan van Tulleken executive produce alongside star LaKeith Stanfield. Director Matsoukas serves as executive producer through her De La Revolución Films. Sue Naegle and David Wolkis also serve as executive producer, Khaliah Neal as co-executive producer.

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 371 wins and 1,545 award nominations and counting, including multi-Emmy Award-winning comedy “Ted Lasso” and historic Oscar Best Picture winner “CODA.”’

Please enjoy this sneak peek of Episode 206 of The Afterparty, which debuts on Apple TV+ tomorrow, 8/9/23.

Also, this sneak peek was assembled/written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.

This piece was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.
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There are few adventures in this life as fulfilling or as special as the road trip, and it makes sense as to why. After all, hitting the road with someone that matters deeply to us, brings forth a supremely unique journey. Wherein one-of-a-kind memories are made and where emotions are shared and well… that really is something to behold. For we set out in this life to make as many memories as possible with special people and this act definitely accomplishes that and gives us plenty to reminisce upon down the line, and the roadtrip is so important to us and so beloved… that it should come as no surprise that there are television shows out there eager to recreate their wonder. Which is of course, one daunting task. Because that requires those shows to replicate the majesty of a roadtrip, and that is just a shockingly tall order.

Which is why so many shows in that vein feel more nostalgic than anything else and make us wistful for more time on the road. But believe it or not, it really is possible to achieve this seemingly unachievable goal, and all it requires… are hosts that indeed share a connection, and the show must offer an unfettered and open look at their adventures, complete with emotion and those special moments we crave, and one such show that has managed to pull this off, is Men in Kilts: A Roadtrip with Sam and Graham. For this STARZ series has indeed captured the magic of the roadtrip, and well, it’s top of mind of today simply because it is returning to the airwaves very soon, and we thought it would be best to preview what you can expect from season two of this show, in a spoiler-free manner of course.

Because to do otherwise would spoil the adventure. But we do need to celebrate the wonder of this show, simply because… it took everything that made season one great and built upon it. For instance, now that Graham and Sam are comfortable with the show and know how they want to assemble it, they’re even more relaxed than they were when they toured Scotland. Which allows for realism to shine through, the kind that makes you feel as though you there and helps you to laugh heartily as they crack jokes and that allows for this year’s trip, to just feel so relaxed and real and it offers up a lot of downright fun. Because this time around, Sam and Graham take part in some unique adventures and check out some incredible places that elicit awe and wonder.

All of which gives rise to a flawless roadtrip show, one that truly takes us on an experience, but what’s equally as amazing… is that this new season of storytelling, offers so much more. For that relaxed and comfortable nature has motivated Sam and Graham to lean into the business they know and love and add some theatrical twists to season two. Which quite frankly, enrich the show like never before and add a new spin on the roadtrip series. Because we’ve never quite seen that in this type of show before and having some cinematic elements and some scripted comedy bits present, just keeps everything fresh and vibrant and draws you into the journey further. Allowing for quite frankly, a supremely special experience for the viewer. All of which makes season two, a true delight.

Because it’s funny, it’s refreshing, and it features an incredible tour of… New Zealand. Yes, that’s right, the place where Hobbits roam and Kiwi’s do… whatever Kiwi’s do… is precisely the land that Sam and Graham are going to explore. And explore it in amazing detail they do, and with incredible enthusiasm and joy, no less. And their travels remind us of the majesty of the roadtrip and why we love it, and the best news of all… is that we are days away from enjoying more adventures with these beloved actors. For season two of Men in Kilts: A Roadtrip with Sam and Graham, makes its debut on STARZ this Friday, and we cannot wait to geek out about their incredible adventures with all of you.