Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Nine of ‘Orphan Black: Echoes’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.

When it comes to television in this day and age, there is one word that is synonymous with the penultimate episode of a show or any of its respective seasons: epic. Because audiences now expect a season or a series finale to blow us away with a story for the ages, and the way to set that up… is indeed with an epic penultimate episode. Where the stakes are raised and where tensions are high, so we immediately want more. But what’s fascinating, is that while this has indeed been a standard for some time now, there are shows that are in a way… rebelling from such concepts in the hopes of telling a vastly different kind of story. 

Wherein the penultimate is more low-key in nature, so that it can set the stage for the finale in a different manner and where it feels epic in other ways, such as resolving matters that have been lingering or by giving the viewer different gifts and for proof… look no further than this week’s episode of Orphan Black: Echoes. For ‘Attracting Awful Things’ did not feature some kind of incredible race to the finish line where everything was revealed, and the stage was set for a final battle between the Millers and Paul Darros. No instead, this was a gentle character study that truly did offer the clones some fascinating perspective on life, and that their fate might be more in their hands than they know.

Which the show accomplished by way of several key storylines. One of which involved Lucy. Who had total recall at last of the day Eleanor’s father died and came to learn that the prime version of herself… felt defeat over what she saw and that had she acted there was a slim chance dad could have survived. Which prompted her to do everything to save Craig, even going so far as to call in Jack regardless of the situation. All because, there was a chance she could be more here, right a wrong in her mind really, and in doing so… she came to understand that she could learn from her former self, correct her mistakes and her path and forge her own. Since kindness and loyalty in this vein does change us, for the better, and that helped her to save Craig and grow.

As she was dealing with that, Jules and Eleanor were coming to learn that they weren’t totally locked into their fates and paths as one might care to believe. Which they discovered the long way round through Xander and the arrival of another blast from Orphan Black’s past… Dr. Delphine Cormier. Who was now aware of what happened here and opted to step in and help, and she accomplished wonders here. Since she was able to work with Jules and Eleanor to bring Jules’ adopted mom into the fold… so that clues could finally be brought forth regarding Darros and his shady activities and what they uncovered, was incredible to say the least. Simply because Darros, invested an ungodly amount of money on out of the way property for reasons that were not clear.
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Which prompted Kira to head that way and uncover that said property was the home of the little device that Darros kept close to him, and that said device was a key. One that required Darros’ brain-scan to properly unlock the digital lock she discovered. Which meant, Xander needed to help in this matter, and at first, he was unwilling. In part because he was severely hung over thanks to the super high dose of the drug he took, but also because… he uncovered a lot of dark truth about his predecessor, and that left him feeling powerless and horrified over what he discovered. But a little pressing from Jules, prompted him to help, to also right a wrong by not being Darros through and through. Which led to some answers and the true understanding that Jules and Eleanor, and Lucy and Xander, could have their own fates and really enjoy life to its fullest away from the shadows of who they were ‘born’ from.

Which made for a very intimate and refreshing penultimate episode. One that is perfect for the tone of this story, since it has been about the path we walk, what defines us as people and how we become who we become. But also, we’d be remiss to not point out, that this episode also went old school and still found a way to build tension and want for the finale, through two massive cliffhangers. Since we are dying to know if Tina and Charlie are okay because Tom is a damn psychopath, and we must know why Darros has the entire country’s medical records stored on a server farm in the water. All of which will soon reveal itself and while we wait for that, we really can bask in a delightful character-centric penultimate tale that informs us… that good storytelling is always what matters most and when you have that… you can still wow an audience and still set the stage for a powerhouse finale. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Finale of ‘Mammals’ (2024). To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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If there is one particular place that modern humanity loves to venture into to clear one’s head or to be one with mother nature, it would be the forest. For this place serves as the anthesis to our woes, that rare segment of the world where we can be free of our cell phones, emails and meetings that should have been an email and just… soak in the silence of the world. Sure, there might be a bird chirping, some crickets, but that is a price worth paying to be away from the concrete jungle we’ve created, and what’s truly fascinating about our love of the forest, is how we genuinely believe that we are isolated and alone when we enter its domain.

When in reality, that’s simply not right. Because the forest is not some void where trees rustle and the occasional squirrel or deer shows up. The forest is in fact, teeming with life from the tops of those trees to the ground we pitch a tent upon and beneath it. Because mammals are everywhere and the forests are a place, they too call home, and it just so happens that what life looks like in the forest while we think about nothing or head home from our relaxing stay amongst the trees, served as the focus of the finale of BBC America docuseries, Mammals. For ‘Forest’ took us around the globe to showcase life in the vast forests of the world, and what we learned from his farewell tour of this story, was quite incredible.

After all, there are apes in this world that not only live in the trees and do as they please, but their intelligence and ability to retain knowledge has allowed for them to eat honey safely from species of bees that don’t sting and make their honey in the ground and if that isn’t enough… well no worry, they will simply work together to hunt prey and lead them into traps so they can be feasted upon. Not to mention, there are cats in the forests that know how to hunt fish, and actually spend their days in the rivers of the world, hunting about and bringing fish to bear for survival, and of course… there are tiny little mammals around the world that live in the trees and in the ground and do their best to survive and thrive regardless of the temperatures surrounding them in the forests. 

But while it was fascinating to see those behaviors and learn some fascinating facts about how they came to bear through evolution and environment, it was the unique survival and adaptation skills on display here that really helped this episode to shine. Because we came to learn there are cats in the forests that use the trees to hunt, and some are learning to use new forests that are growing as a result of climate change to raise their young and hunt as well. Not to mention, it is not uncommon now, to find monkeys moving about our cities in some regions of the world via power lines. A move that is dangerous but necessary, for mankind and nature are starting to collide and nature’s ability to adapt requires such bold moves, regardless of risk, to ensure survival.

Which was why the closing moments of this episode were of note. For they did point out, that our need for land and our need to move into regions that are covered in forest, is indeed causing a touch of harm now and again and disrupting generations of understanding and of knowledge and well… we must figure out the balance. For we can no longer treat the world as a place that bends to our whim. We must be partners and protectors, so that these fine mammals keep the only homes they have ever known and don’t suffer because we ‘need’ a new golf course, and that was a fine way to end this series. Since it brought home not only the wonder of the world that surrounds us, and the journey mammals have been upon, but how critical it is that the dominant mammal on this planet, serve as its caretaker for the gifts that it has been given.

Caution: This rapid recap of Episode 534 of ‘Love After Lockup’ contains spoilers.
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Please enjoy this rapid recap of Episode 534 of Love After Lockup on WE tv, along with a refresher clip!

EPISODE 534 – “HOW MENTALLY STABLE ARE YOU?” – Airs August 16th on We TV at 8pm ET/PT  
True drops a bombshell on Shonta. Troy confronts his mom after his release. Joey runs wild with Kim’s debit card. Bianca is stunned when Daniel’s dad grills her. Latisha gets devastating news.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Five of ‘Me’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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One particular truth about divorce that few parents ever acknowledge, is that it has a profound impact upon their kids. Because children are incredibly observant and quite in tune with their emotions and when the moment comes that their parents split, they have a lot they need to process and adjust to and that does create some changes. It forces a measure of maturity; it prompts them to look at the world and at relationships in a different manner. Not to mention, it can be hard on them and force them to do things that no kid should have to do. Such as keep the peace. Granted, that doesn’t necessarily mean that a couple should stay married when the relationship is in fact, toxic, but it is important to acknowledge this truth… and act accordingly from a support standpoint.

If anything, that truth is top of mind today, simply because it was put on display in the next episode of Me on Apple TV+. For ‘Under Pressure’ took place during Max’s birthday. A day that should have put her over the moon with joy. But alas, she was nervous on this day and rightfully so. For it meant interacting with her mother, who was bitter from the divorce, and dealing with Julia’s antics because of that, and it also meant… balancing her family life and her time with Ben. For they were trying to learn more about why the building featured in the photo, on the day Carter went into a tornado, was of such importance to that moment.

But in order to do that right… they would have to work out going to the restaurant next to it on this day and well, they managed to make that work and in doing so… the exploration in question got underway. Because dinner was… a disaster. Because Julia was constantly taking pot shots at Phil and the family unit and making demands, and it was in many ways…  up to Max to keep the peace on his night and guide Ben through his own struggles with his powers when they went to investigate lues, and that was, a lot for Max to navigate. Because it pulled the joy away from her day and drained her emotionally and yet, her parents were clueless on such matters. Because they were focused on the nonsense that undoubtedly contributed to the end of their marriage.

But had they taken a moment, and seen their actions, they would have seen how much their end impacted Max and how it forced her to grow up fast and be the adult in the room because together, they could not. Which made for a powerful story, that truly showcased the transformative power of divorce and how it does indeed force maturity and actions that aren’t healthy for kids to go through. Because it should never be up to them to be the adult in the room, they should be enjoying their youth. But this can and does happen because of the bitterness of divorce and because it’s so easy for adults to lean into their anger over leaning into maturity and well, this episode deserves a round of applause for showcasing this and for pointing out how parents have to be better and not let this happen, regardless of bitter feelings.

However, while that was amazing to sit through, the plot did of course build further upon the bigger matter at hand. Since we learned a little more about that logo and how it relates to other gifted people in this world, and how a school of them may have given rise to a villain. And of course, Carter is still helping out and doing the right thing and well… in the end, this was just a powerful tale. One that tackled a big topic and provided an angle regarding it that we don’t talk about enough. Because kids will go the extra mile to keep the peace and the status quo to avoid the mess that parents can create sometimes, and it will be interesting to see what other amazing lessons await us as we enter the back half of season one of this brilliant show. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 206 of ‘The Serpent Queen’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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It is definitely safe to say, that fans of the hit STARZ series, The Serpent Queen, and fans of television in general, have been anxiously awaiting one particularly big moment from this series. in that, we knew it was only a matter of time before Minnie Driver and Samantha Morton were going to share the screen as Queen Elizabeth I and Queen Regent Catherine de Medici, respectively, and well… it doesn’t get more epic than that. For Minnie and Samantha are two of the best in the business, and the thought of them interacting and putting on an acting clinic in the process is truly a dream come true and well… that moment finally arrived in the next episode of the show, and it did not disappoint.

Simply because this duo finally shared the screen in ‘Courting the Valois’ and they were truly electric. Courtesy of moments where Catherine and Elizabeth jabbed at one another and played the rival game and having these two top talents make that happen was compelling and amazing, and kudos to Erwin Stoff (Executive Producer) and Justin Haythe (Showrunner) for assembling this iconic television moment. For it was a true treat and added to an amazing story that further made the Serpent Queen, the Serpent Queen. Due to the fact that Elizabeth arrived in France with guile in her heart. For she planned to basically rot France from the inside and make Charles another boy toy, to rule it from afar and well, what she had planned was terrifying.

For she revealed to Louis, that the Bourbon family was to deliver a cadre of weapons from her personal stock to arm Edith’s little cadre of believers. All so that escalation could take place and so France would be destabilized, and of course… by having the King in her stead, he would follow her tragic advice and allow for her to take charge and well, she started that process by playing the family like never before. For she pitted brother against brother, by having Anjou and Charles play the rivalry game since she recognized the King was the jealous type and that worked to sow discord and elicit control and if by Charles survives his injuries from a hunting accident and whatever else is going down internally, she may have him lock, stock and barrel.

Which are moves that caught Catherine by surprise. For she did not expect her family to falter and cozy up to Elizabeth’s tricks with such ease, but… Catherine’s desire for peace has indeed blinded her to where her family is at and where others are at as well, since we came to learn that the Guises were also making moves behind the scenes, and letting treachery grow to see how it could benefit them. Not to mention, Catherine came to realize that her absolute inner circle was not trustworthy in the slightest. For it was revealed that dear Rahima, who has been at Catherine’s side for so long, is building a nest egg from the royal coffers and she is not alone in such matters, since it was brought to the Queen’s attention that Alessandro’s figures were not adding up.
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For he indeed was stealing from the crown as well and making moves that would benefit his name and his standing over anything else. Even going so far as to charm the Queen of England and showcase his skills because he truly wants the world and well, despite her best efforts to believe that a firm and observing hand would quell such matters, deep down, Catherine knew that bad things were on the horizon. That she was being tested like never before and that prompted her to finally lash out in anger when Ruggeri pointed out such matters in the most direct manner possible. Making it clear that Catherine’s patience is wearing thin, and that she knows her rule is threatened and that her power is slightly diminished and that’s… not a good thing for the others.

After all, the last time this happened, in her youth no less, she made incredible moves to gain agency and standing. But now, she has power, and she is back in the same position and soon, the Serpent Queen will strike without warning. But while we wait for her true ascension to the dark throne, we can celebrate, the show’s best episode to date. Because this one had it all, top tier acting, amazing writing and epic, game-changing moments that built tension and gravity for the final two episodes of the season. Which means it is equally as safe to say that we are all clearing our schedules in anticipation of next Friday night, to see what lies ahead now that Catherine is backed into a corner… and coiled. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 202 of ‘Kold x Windy’. To revisit the Season Two Premiere, click here.
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It really is quite amazing what the second season of Kold x Windy on ALLBLK is accomplishing from a storytelling standpoint. Because it really is deconstructing the unhealthy nature of the dream. For far too often, we believe that our dreams will solve all of our problems and wipe away our darkness, because we’ve been taught that singular moments somehow miraculously heal, and that just isn’t the case and Malika and Renee are indeed learning that the hard way this season. Since they already came to understand that truth in the season two premiere, and well, for the next chapter in this exploration, the show opted to examine… how hard that truth can be on a person. Because that in many ways, demystifies the dream and makes it feel less wondrous and that puts a person at a tough crossroads.

Wherein they are unsure what to do, especially with reality nipping at their heels. In fact, life going on can amplify that scattered worry, and that is where Malika and Renee were at in ‘Desperate Measures’. Because their problems were everywhere in this tale, and mounting. After all, they had to watch their backs now that Pop was trying to pop them, and he of course, claimed one of their own. Not to mention, life wasn’t getting better for Malika. Because she was losing the custody battle, she was struggling to write and of course… she and Renee had financial concerns. The kind that pushed Renee to do something bold. Wherein she tried to sue the state for a ridiculous amount of money for being locked up. A move that failed.

Not to mention, they had newcomers nipping at their feet by way of a new drill team that threw a lot of shade their way. Leaving them to wonder what lie ahead for they were indeed genuinely rattled and shocked over how little changed after signing the deal, and well, a meeting with their producer gave them a taste of things to come, and complicated matters further. For he spoke to riches untold, of joy, of the dream, because he believed in them and their talent, and tasked them with the toughest lesson of all when it comes to our dreams. In that, even when we cross the threshold, there is still work to be done. The kind that requires patience and dedication as one refines and hones their work to enjoy sustainable success and that too… troubled this duo. 

All because they firmly believed that the contract would fix it all and the work ahead and the struggles around them… brought home the core theme by exploring how not having that quick fix in front of us, can make people do some dumb things. Because then there is a deep-rooted worry that failure will come into play and that the work will take too long and that perhaps the shine of the moment will fade. Even though that isn’t the case, and that worry prompts the dumb stuff. Such as crying out to others to be made whole in the moment, as Malika did with her father by demanding he find Brenda, or by leaning into bad behaviors that are familiar and a fallback. Like planning a massive stain, or calling for blood, as Malika did at the end of the story here, and as Renee did when Shelly was exposed on the web.

All of which spoke to… more tough lessons for this duo. Who are so eager to find peace that they keep looking elsewhere to find it, when it is in front of them. For if Malika buckled down and did things right, she would have what she wants and be closer to the dream and the same goes for Renee, and that is the fundamental question for this duo. In that, can they make the change needed to finally be more and to finally embrace the wondrous path they are on? Only time will tell of course, but that is going to make for a powerful and moving journey we can relate to. Since we too… harbor doubt and self-sabotage often and it will indeed be interesting to see, if Kold and Windy can embrace the work, and find their way to glory… or if we are in for a grand tragedy. Until next time.

It really is quite the amazing time to be a fan of reality competition shows. Simply because, this era of peak television has pushed producers of such shows… to try new concepts and ideas and offer up competitions that are unique and refreshing and well, the end result of this push to offer something new to viewers, has been quite amazing. For we are now privy to battles that we’ve never seen before, the kind that entice us to watch and engage us on a deep level, and well, it just so happens that USA Network is about to be home to another fascinating competition, one that blends digital elements into this type of show in a supremely unique manner.
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For Monday will bring forth the debut of The Anonymous. A series that truly is unlike anything else on the airwaves right now. For this is a competition series that exists in both the real and digital world, wherein twelve competitors come together in a village, and work together to raise a prize pot via challenges, worth $100,000. But in between those little real-world exercises, is the real competition. Wherein the competitors seal themselves into a personal underground bunker and take part in strategic group chats. The kind where they can say what they wish to try and expose who is hiding behind secret handles, with the help of their Digital Anonymous Network Interface, or DANI for short, in the hopes of becoming The Anonymous. For the person who holds that title via these provocative chats, yields great power.

For that is the person who can decide who goes home and arrange the proverbial chess board to their advantage to be the last contestant standing, and this really is quite the amazing competition to say the least, for several reasons. First because, this writer is hard pressed to think of another show that makes use of the digital world in his manner, much less at all. But technology is the name of the game, and it really is quite the strategic competition because the competitors have to think deeply at how best to hide their identity and throw people off the trail to enjoy that anonymity and that leads to the other reason this show is so fascinating and so unique. In that, this really is the first time in a game setting that we’ve seen handles and social media elements be used to help someone compete for a grand prize.

But it works here and… it is handled with class. For we all know that social media can be used for very negative things because of anonymity. But here, it’s used for productivity, it’s the digital chess board in question and that leads… to some fascinating moments. The kind where we get to see how one can use social media elements to truly elicit a fascinating response and of course, move the chess pieces about to best benefit the player and help them obtain the title of the Anonymous. But what’s fascinating is that the competition doesn’t end with the digital side of things. After all, these twelve competitors are living together in DANI’s village, and competing for prize money, and have to interact on a regular basis.

Which leads to more compelling moments and all these elements bring forth… one amazing show. One that truly engages the viewer since you must know what comes next and we get to meet competitors that are dynamic and entertaining and come from a broad swath of backgrounds. From big events and other shows to everyday people we simply do not know and the best news of all, is that you only have to wait a few more days to immerse yourself in this fun new series and all the new ideas it has to offer. For The Anonymous debuts on Monday, August 19, 2024, at 11pm EST/PST on USA Network with a three-episode premiere, and we cannot wait for you to see this refreshing and inventive new series, one that truly reinforces the power of social media in a fun new way.

To learn more about the creation of ‘The Anonymous’ visit our interview with Executive Producer Stephen Yemoh.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Series Premiere of ‘Bad Monkey’.
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We are taught from a very early age, to treat the vast majority of jobs we do, with minimal reverence. For each of us harbor a dream or expect to find a job that calls to us and fulfills us. So, it is best that everything before the big one is given minimal thought. For those side gigs just provide a paycheck and not the peace and wonder that we will find when we finally grab hold of the dream or the right job for our very soul. But alas, while we hold to that lesson often, and find real joy in the right gig when it arrives, what we don’t ponder upon enough… is what we do if the dream job goes away. Because layoffs, mistakes and surprises are a thing and well… what then?

Do we just drift because this was all that mattered to us? Do we go back to menial gigs in the desperate hope that somehow one of them will fill a void? Or do we claw our way back into what we love? Well. those are questions that are central to the new Apple TV+ series, Bad Monkey. For the fascinating series premiere of this show introduces us to one Detective Andrew Yancy who is not a detective when we meet him in ‘The Floating-Human-Body-Parts Capital of America’ and ‘A Hundred Bucks Says You Won’t’. Simply because, dear Andrew has been taking part in a fling with a local lady named Bonnie and well… the jealousy from that, regarding her husband, puts Andrew in a difficult place. Wherein his badge has been pulled and where there are no guarantees he will be a detective going forward.

Which shatters his world to no end. Because for Yancy, police work, and the dream job are synonymous… to the point where he oversteps a few more lines when a juicy case drops into his lap. For someone discovered a severed arm in the middle of the ocean, and when tasked with giving that arm to the next of kin, a woman known as Eve… Yancy makes a point to ask questions about the deceased that get him in far hotter water. To the point where he comes within inches of losing his badge permanently. But a saving grace moment from that jealous husband gives Andrew one last chance to prove himself. For if Andrew can keep his nose clean and hang on for a bit as a restaurant inspector for the county, he can be a detective again. But that will be no easy task, for a shady land developer that happens to be Eve’s squeeze, is only going to deepen the mystery surrounding the case that has caught Andrew’s eye, and that may make it impossible for Andrew to resist. 

Which really is… the perfect way to explore who we become when we lose our dream job, and it turns out… we would be listless in nature. For it truly calls to us and energizes us and not being in the middle of what we love can damage a soul and confuse, and that is likely why this story will also speak to how… we must do anything to get what fulfills us… back. For when we find our calling, nothing else will do, nothing else will satisfy and that definitely sets up a unique battle for Andrew. One where he will clearly surround himself with what he craves while doing his best to please the brass to have the peace he so desires. The only question is… can he find balance as he digs into this harrowing case, one that also adds to the majesty of this fascinating story.
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Since the murder at hand, and the bad characters in play, will clearly offer up depth and commentary on the modern world and capitalism and consumerism, and how it is transforming certain areas of the world. Courtesy of a fascinating and intersecting journey for a man named Neville, who is in the midst of a devastating land grab. All of which sets the stage for a grand crime… comedy. Because it should be noted that all of this is handled through a comedic lens, so that there’s a different kind of edge to a wonderfully complex and engaging story. In fact, the comedy draws you further into the story, since you so rarely see a crime story make use of it so often and so effectively. For it oft softens the blow of the darkest moments present, and it leaves you wondering how the jokes will work when more darkness arrives and make no mistake… it is obvious darkness is on the horizon.  

Because there is a real ruthlessness to Eve and Christopher, and they will truly stop at nothing to have what they want, and they do not care who they hurt or whose lives they tear apart and all of these elements bring forth, one incredible series premiere. One that sets the stage for a grandiose case and an incredible story grounded in a beautiful blend of old school police serials, since it does have that old school 80s vibe, and the wonder of dark comedy. Not to mention, it’s home to amazing acting, with Vince Vaughn leading the charge here with a sublime performance that feels real. For his portrayal of Andrew oozes desperate need, confidence and fear, making him accessible and it leaves us eager to see if redemption is in the cards for Andrew or if a harsher lesson awaits… as season one of this magnificent series continues along. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Four of ‘Wayne Brady: The Family Remix’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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Over the course of the past few weeks, we’ve learned a lot about the importance, the power, and the impact of the truth, courtesy of the Freeform series, Wayne Brady: The Family Remix. Since Wayne and his family have explored every single one of those elements by welcoming us into their home and their lives and through Wayne’s decision to open up about his life, his sexuality and the truth about everything going on with him really. Which has indeed brought forth amazing lessons on the truth, some sobering moments with the family and now… something quite delightful.

In that, the next episode in this saga explored something quite powerful. Specifically, what do we do with our lives when we have started to speak our truth and explore who we are, and that made ‘Dear Mama’ quite the impactful and beautiful tale. For several reasons. In large part, because Wayne did indeed have to answer that question. For he was still struggling with his work on The Wiz and wondering how to find his authentic self for the role and well… a good chat with the director of the project and support from his family helped him to realize to embrace his truth, embrace the moment and just thrive within it. Feel it really, because we are now who we are when that truth comes out, and there’s nothing to analyze, we just have to live and enjoy the ride.

Which in turn, prompted Wayne to do more wonderful things to embrace the moment, the future and the truth about what he wants in life. One element is a stable family life. That was why he invited his biological mother, whom he hasn’t known as well as he would like, and the biological mother of Sundance-Isamu, to join the Core Four for an incredible Mother’s Day dinner. One filled with honesty, understanding and love, and unity. Which brought Wayne to tears and filled his heart with love and helped him to understand that power of the moment and the wonder of being honest and embracing truth and well, Wayne finding a better place mentally in this tale, allowed for the show to expand a little further on the rest of the family as well.

Since we did indeed learn how Sundance-Isamu came to be part of the family via time with Jason and Mandie, and we also spent a lot of time with Maile here and learned about some of her interpersonal dealings and some of her passions. Such as how much she loves music, and being around it, and making it. In fact, that passion brought about a bit of drama in this tale. Simply because once, Wayne was done with the workshop and back in Los Angeles with his family, Maile’s big focus was getting her music video put together and in the midst of assembling the choreography for it, she ran into a little conflict with Wayne and Mandie. In that, they saw an opportunity to freshen up her track and make it pop for the video. Advice that was welcome since Wayne and Mandie know their stuff, but also hurtful because she really wanted to dig into the creative process and do what her parents do, of her own accord.

Which was fascinating and relatable to watch play out, since Maile is in that strange space in her life where we have all been at some point. Where parents and guardians still have some say in our lives, when we are ready to break out. But while we wait to see what comes of that, we can celebrate one beautiful journey. One that spoke to how being honest benefits us, and how it helps us to grow and be a better person through and through, and it was just satisfying and wholesome to see Wayne find some footing, and peace, and love and joy, because everyone deserves that in this life. And it will be equally as wondrous to see Wayne and his family grow further now that the foundation is laid down for an honest tomorrow. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Series Premiere of ‘Mr. Throwback’.
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We often like to think, that people lie and stick to a lie for nefarious reasons. As though there is some great evil within their soul that motivates them to want to push forth lies and harm people in the process, and to a certain extent… there’s merit to that line of thinking. After all, lies are rarely used for noble purposes and some people do make a habit out of telling them as part of some grand plan to benefit them. But what if went deeper than that? What if lies were told for reasons that are far more sympathetic than we might expect? And what if… that liar was worthy of more than disdain?

Well, it just so happens that those questions are central to the story of the new Peacock comedy, Mr. Throwback. But at times, it sure doesn’t seem as though that is the case. Because the series premiere of this tale, ‘Why Not Me’, features a lot of uncomfortable bumbling from a man named Danny Grossman. Who is an everyday, divorced dude that loves sports and runs a sports memorabilia shop, and is in a lot of trouble when we meet him. Simply because, Danny boy happens to be in hock to some bad dudes to the tune of ninety grand and well… that prompts him to do something bold. For believe it or not, Danny went to school with NBA Superstar Stephen Curry in the sixth grade, and they even balled on the same team together.

So, Danny deems it best to reach out Steph and his assistant, Kimberly, also an old friend from back in the day… to seemingly just reconnect after all these years. But of course, Danny is eager to steal a game-worn Curry jersey, which will make up his shortfall with a little profit. But when caught… Danny instead opts to triple down with a new lie. One that speaks to his daughter Charlie being ill with a terminal sickness, in the hopes of getting Steph to let him off the hook, only to find himself, embroiled in charity. For now, Stephen wants to bring awareness to this illness and suggests Danny run a charity basketball game to raise funds to cure her before it is too late. Putting Danny at an incredible crossroads. Wherein he can let go of the lie before it gets out of hand, or quadruple down… which is what he does.

Because that is Danny, and that immediately brings forth that fury and that hate, the kind that relates to our disdain for liars, and people who seem to work the system. But that is the beautiful trick of this premiere, because our fury and our concern, immediately wipes away… some of the answers to our questions. Because we also learn that Danny suffered through some real tragedy when playing with Mister Curry. For his father, Mitch, used Danny to further his own lie to win a basketball championship, and well… that absolutely had to have an impact upon Danny. The kind that would teach him that lies are okay, and that leaves us to wonder if perhaps… there is more to him than lies, that he might be a product of his environment, and it could be possible for him… to be a better man.

All of which brings forth the perfect setup for a deep journey. One that ponders upon the nature of trauma and its lasting impact upon us and generational trauma for that matter as well, and of course… it will ponder upon if there is a way back for men like Danny. All told through a hilarious lens because make no mistake about it, this premiere is downright hilarious through and through. In fact, the comedy, and mockumentary style, softens the blow of some seriously heavy material. But all of this works and sets up the story brilliantly and immediately has you ready… to continue the journey. Wherein we will learn more about the nature of a lie, and whether or not Danny can be redeemed for telling it. Until next time.

To learn more about the creation of this series, visit our interview with the show’s Executive Producers, Matthew and Daniel Libman, and David Caspe.