Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 2802 of ‘Top Gear’.
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Innovation is a word that has more or less become synonymous with the car industry. Because ever since the first automobile rolled off an assembly line a century ago, people have been working tirelessly to improve upon cars and make them more reliable, safer, faster and in more recent years, more energy efficient. Which is why a television show like Top Gear is vital, since it can showcase innovation the instant it arrives on the market and give everyone an idea of where the industry is heading and what wonders will soon work their way into our next vehicle. If anything, innovation is critical to today’s discussion, simply because this week’s episode of this phenomenal series put that concept on full display, in the most entertaining and awesome way imaginable. 
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For this is an episode that saw Paddy McGuiness straight up invent a brand-new type of Land Rover. One that he dubbed ‘The Dirty Rascal’, and the whole point of him designing his own off-road vehicle, was to prove that something supremely affordable and fun could be built and let’s be honest, this is innovation at its finest. Because the whole point of inventing the car and refining its features was to make day to day travel affordable and fun and accessible to everyday people and sometimes, dropping $40k on an off-road vehicle isn’t feasible and that’s why the Rascal definitely catches your eye. Because for $7k, this hearty ride features a lot of creature comforts for folks who love weekend getaways to the very heart of nature, but don’t want to truly rough it. Since it just so happens to have a flat screen, a beverage dispenser (complete with hot gravy) and candy and comfortable chairs and of course… a monsoon shower to refreshen one’s spirit and mind.

Which makes this ride pretty freakin’ awesome for certain. But while the flash and dash in this off-road vehicle made it quite appealing, the bigger question surrounding it, was whether or not it could actually outperform the competition and sadly, the answer to said question was a great big… kind of. Because while this slick ride can handle most of the terrain that off-roaders are born to conquer, it definitely struggled to handle deep water without a snorkel add on. Plus, it also had a little bit of trouble with incredibly rugged terrain. A fact that came to light, when Paddy and Chris took it through the Scottish Highlands to try and outpace Freddie and some former British SAS members. But while it may not be a flawless off-road vehicle, it really was quite the impressive ride when all is said and done, and really this would be more of a leisure off-roader and there’s definitely a market for cars that offer comfort and gravy and a sense of adventure. Also, Paddy built a car! How awesome is that?

But while Paddy’s ride made for some incredible moments, there was still more innovation to be found in this particular episode. Because Chris Harris took the time to offer up an up-close examination of the incredible McLaren Speedtail. A supercar that is of note, simply because it features so many stunning features. Such as the fact that the driver’s seat is situated in the middle of the car, and that it is devoid of side mirrors, and boasts a flexible chassis. All so that this slick little speedster can accelerate to hundreds of miles of hours in a matter of seconds and this is… one amazing car. One that is so quick and so powerful that Paddy thought it might be able to hold its own with an F-35 fighter jet in a race, and oddly enough, for a brief period of time, it really seemed as though the Speedtail might do just that. Because Chris was hauling on the racetrack and making solid time. But you simply can’t outrun a fighter jet that can break the sound barrier and accelerate to 1200 miles an hour in a matter of seconds. But it was quite cool to see these two vastly different elements of innovation go head to head in this manner.

In the end however, this really was quite the wonderful episode. In large part due to the fact that it did a phenomenal job of celebrating the wonder and majesty and downright importance of innovation. But this is also a standout episode, simply because it was downright fun through and through. Because seeing a car and a fighter jet, take part in a race is simply amazing, and truly who didn’t lose it and burst out in laughter when Paddy supplied his mates with slippers and toffee from inside The Dirty Rascal? And even the celebrity segment with Romesh Ranganathan was an absolute treat. Since he had plenty of hilarious stories to tell and the jokes, he supplied us with during his time on the track, definitely put smiles on our faces as well. Which makes this one of the best episodes that Paddy and Freddie and Chris have ever put together, and it definitely leaves one eager to see what fun will be had when we travel with the lads to Peru, come next week. Until then.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 107 of ‘Ted Lasso’.
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One particular element that is truly fascinating about the important decisions that we make in life, is how they are viewed. For often times, our friends and family will applaud the call we’ve made or are about to make; simply because the actions we are about to undertake seem quite brave in nature. Because change isn’t easy and sticking to it takes a certain level of resolve that so many believe they are incapable of. But therein lies the big surprise when it comes to change, in that, while others see us as some kind of a hero for embarking upon a brave and challenging journey; deep down we feel quite differently about the decision we are about to make. Simply because change is, in reality, quite the terrifying experience when all is said and done. 

For we are creatures of habit, the kind that work hard to obtain a routine that brings us a sense of comfort and calm. So, when we feel the need to upend that status quo, fear settles in and it leaves us out of sorts and nervous as to what our lives are going to look like without those familiar elements surrounding us Which is why some folks back way from the change they initially wanted to make, because the horrifying potential of the unknown was simply too much to bear. But change is critical to life, and without it we cannot grow and try new things, and if by chance we stick to our guns and execute this daring plan, well we might find newfound growth and a happiness that we never thought we were capable of experiencing. And it just so happens that this all-important moment, where one has to decide to go through with a new beginning, served as the focal point for the next episode of Ted Lasso.

Because ‘Make Rebecca Great Again’ saw our intrepid coach staring down the finality of a big decision he made a couple of weeks ago; his divorce from Michelle. And while he certainly knew deep down that letting her go was the right decision since the love in their marriage had all but disappeared, the reality of letting that love go, shook him to his core. For this meant that his dream of staying with Michelle forever and having that perfect family life, was about to evaporate before his eyes, leaving him on a path unknown and the resulting fear that came from that, began to sneak into his everyday life. Something that could not have come at a worse time. For the team was on the road and about to face an opponent they hadn’t beaten in sixty years and they needed some kind of inspiration from their leader. 

But Ted simply couldn’t find the words or focus for that matter. For all he could think about was the unknown and that led to more surprises from this normally sure-footed man. Because Ted got drunk, and even took out his frustrations on Nate when the opportunity arose and well, that motivated him to take a step back and try something new for a change in regard to the team. For if he couldn’t focus and properly lead this squad, then perhaps it was time to let the passion of others shine through and inspire this squad in its hour of need. Which is why he let Nate offer up some unique criticisms of the team, so they could see some fixable flaws before taking the field and wouldn’t you know it? Letting go and trusting in others and the process, paid off in spades since AFC Richmond dug deep and found a way to win and that surprise, along with some unexpected kindness from someone who went through something similar, allowed for Ted to finally find his way.

As it turns out, that kindness came forth from an unexpected source; Rebecca Welton. For while Ted was fighting his fear of change, she was reflecting upon the wonder of how much better her life had become for making the same decision. An epiphany that came forth with a little support from Keeley and her best friend Flo. Since they were quick to remind her of the progress she made by making the tough decision to toss Rupert aside, and that allowed for her to finally find a little joy in life again and embrace her accomplishments and her growth. And when Ted had an outright panic attack over his struggles during a night out on the town, she took the time to comfort him and subtlety inform him everything is going to be okay in the end, and that he will find happiness again, and that allowed for Ted to finally bid farewell to his wife and open himself up to new opportunities. Since Flo showed up at his door in the middle of the night. 

If anything, this was just another pleasant surprise storytelling wise. Simply because this episode really did do a phenomenal job of expressing to the audience the sheer terror that we experience before embarking on a new path, and the joy that we find when we’ve finally done something to ensure our happiness and that makes this episode quite inspiring when all is said and done. Because this is the kind of story that someone in Ted’s shoes can find strength from and that’s simply incredible. Since a sports show has no business offering up this kind of life lesson, but this series continues to be unconventional in every single sense of the word. But all lessons aside, the other reason this episode stands out is because it also featured some endearing and powerful performances from Jason Sudeikis and Hannah Waddingham and without their grounded and nuanced acting in this story, none of the powerful moments present here would have any gravity and in the end, this is a story that will stay with us for some time. Because Jason’s beautifully nuanced script simply reminds us to 'do the thing', and enjoy what comes next and that is a message that always resonates, and it also leaves one wondering what other magnificent life lessons this show is going to send our way before this incredible first season comes to a close. Until next time.

What’s truly been fascinating about the early episodes of Breaking Bad, is the sheer fact that they defy convention in how they explore the downward spiral of an individual. Because often times, when this exploration pops up in television and film, it’s a gradual slide into darkness. Wherein our fallen hero begins to question their world and their normally solid and stable life, before dipping their toes in the criminal underworld. Which in turn allows for them to struggle with the decision to commit to evil before they finally say, ‘to hell with it’ and embrace the darkness and enjoy their new life as a mastermind criminal that does whatever they want whenever they want.
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But this series, has instead opted to flip the script on that exploration. Since Walter White wasted no time in trying his hand at becoming a drug dealer. Which has forced him to learn the trade and its darker aspects on the fly, and that’s led to some harrowing and powerful moments for certain. The kind that have seen Walter do some horrible things in the name of financial security and family safety. And it just so happens that the next episode in this fascinating series, stayed true to this staggered and skewed look at the downward spiral of a good man, by finally taking the time to show us the stable and wonderful family life that both of these men have surrounding them, and that made ‘Cancer Man’ one fascinating story for certain.

Because seeing how stable their lives are or could be only makes you feel worse about the decisions they’ve made thus far. For these two guys really do have wonderful families that care about them and want to see them succeed. Take Jesse for instance, since his parents are well-to-do and encourage education and stability, and it is quite stunning to learn that he came from a home where every opportunity that could be afforded to a young man was at his fingertips, if he simply embraced what mom and dad expected of him. And for that matter, Walter’s family surrounds him with love and care as well, to the point where everyone steps up to help him get a proper treatment plan in place for the cancer that is currently surging through his system.

Which really leaves one to wonder, why on earth would these two fine men turn their backs on a stable life that so many people would give anything to have? And well, that’s what makes this episode so special, because it answers that question. Because Jesse makes it clear that he sees the life his parents lead as a boring waste of time. One devoid of joy or variety and that kind of view definitely motivates a man who wants a little more out of life to rebel and find new avenues that bring him joy. As for Walter, well his journey here, harkens back to the ‘Pilot’ episode for certain. Since a lot of his financial struggles here, while a guy like Ken can flaunt the fact that being a douchebag got him ahead in life, served to remind Walter that cooking Meth was an act designed to give life a great big middle finger; all for dealing him a garbage hand for following the rules and being good at every turn. 

A realization that motivates Walter to once again indulge his darker side at the end of this tale and that seems to signal that it won’t be long before he is cooking Meth with Jesse once again. Not only to indulge that sense of justice, but to pay for his forthcoming treatments. But in the here and the now this really was quite the intimate tale, since we received an incredible look at the wonderful lives that Jesse and Walter could enjoy if they leave the bad, behind. But the choices we make in life, are our own, and there are consequences that come from those choices, and that is a theme that continues to permeate this titular first season and learning what kind of life these men lead now, after they’ve made some bad choices… will only add to the gravity and the power of their journey into darkness. Until next time.  

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 106 of 'Star Trek: Lower Decks'. 
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When we last settled in to discuss the wondrous new Star Trek Universe series, Star Trek: Lower Decks, we talked at length about the show’s ability to be quite versatile in its storytelling. For ‘Cupid’s Errant Arrow’ was an episode that was devoid of any major analysis of prior STU storylines and concepts, leaving one to wonder what type of tale the next episode of this series was going to send our way. For now, the possibilities storytelling wise, were endless and as it turns out, the next episode in this fascinating and hilarious new series, decided the best course of action was to return to basics and once again explore and satirize classic concepts that have permeated the fabric of this long and storied franchise.
 
But rather than go grandiose and feature multiple settings and ships as the last pair of episodes opted to do, ‘Terminal Provocations’ went a more intimate route and set this week’s story solely aboard the Cerritos. Which allowed for our intrepid ensigns to once again be left to their own devices while everyone on the ship waited to see what was coming next in regard to a stand-off with rogue scavengers that the bridge crew was currently dealing with, and that allowed for the series to revisit and parody a common problem aboard Starfleet ships; errant technology. Because time and time again we’ve seen Hologram programs go rogue, or seen sentient computers terrorize the crews of various vessels and both of those issues popped up in this particular tale and that offered up some incredibly hilarious results. 

Take the Holodeck storyline for instance. Because it is safe to say that no one expected a holographic variation of both the Starfleet Delta and Microsoft’s Clippy (named Badgey) to become a bloodthirsty serial killer, but hey, that happened here. Because a freak out in the Holodeck once things got chippy with the scavengers, lowered the safety protocols and turned Badgey’s murder protocols to eleven and this resulted in one wild sequence. One where dear Badgey chased Rutherford and Tendi through all kinds of hostile environments in the hopes of wearing their skin (his words, not mine) and it took some serious creativity on Rutherford’s part to finally stop his digital son’s rampage and well, this really ended up being the most hilarious sequence in this tale. Because Badgey had all the best one-liners and his unfettered and unrestricted actions simply took you off guard and the show deserves some serious credit for properly exploring how bad things could actually get inside the Holodeck if its characters were allowed to truly run free. 

As for Boimler and Mariner, well their buddy, Ensign Fletcher, made quite the stupid decision while this dynamic duo went to enjoy the Chu Chu concert. In that, Fletch felt the need to pair his mind with a computer core in the hopes of getting smarter so he could finish his work faster and well, you can guess how that turned out. Because instead of getting smarter, dear Fletcher instead gave the computer core in question sentient life, the kind that needed to feast upon knowledge and that forced Mariner and Boimler to do everything within their power to subdue this nightmare and… get Fletcher kicked off the Cerritos. Because the poor guy just wasn’t cut out for Starfleet life since he wanted to get everyone else in trouble over this, rather than take responsibility for his mistake. And thanks to Boimler and Mariner’s quick thinking and ability to deflect, they were able to use the computer core to save the day and make it seem as though Fletch was the mastermind behind that plan. All so that he would be promoted and transferred to the U.S.S. Titan. Where he was promptly fired because you know damn well Captain William T. Riker doesn't put up with the kind of crap that Fletcher brings to the table. 

In the end however, this really was quite the wonderful satire of the crazy computers and wild Holodeck programs that we’ve encountered throughout our many years of watching STU shows. Because it really did a great job of expressing how preventable some of these problems are with a little common sense and care and it’s a good thing those things weren’t present in this tale, since a lack of forward thinking brought about the laughs in question. Plus, this story also gets a thumbs up for exploring how bad things would have been aboard the Enterprise­-D if Lieutenant Barclay was an idiot, since Fletcher was basically the personification of that notion. But what matters most, is that this episode was a lot of fun and a real treat to watch. Simply because you didn’t have a clue what was going to happen next, and truly, the show’s ability to surprise us with independent stories or a wonderful analysis of what’s come before it, leaves one eager to continue this wacky journey. Since this show continues to offer up a fresh and original take on the Star Trek Universe and everything good and goofy that it has to offer. Until next time.

One particular phrase that a great deal of us repeat at some point in our lives, is that we would do anything and everything necessary in order to protect our family. Because they are our flesh and blood and we only get one of them and if by chance someone needs to get beat up, or worse, in order to keep them safe, so be it. If anything, that particular phrase really does help our loved ones understand just how much we care about them and it does give them a sense of security that we will always have their backs. But in reality, few of us will ever have to genuinely cross that line in order to keep our family safe. Sure, we will hustle and go the extra mile in order to keep a roof over our heads and food in our bellies, but hardcore violence isn’t something that is commonplace to us. Nor is murder for that matter.  
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Which leaves one to wonder, that if we were actually faced with a situation where we needed to resort to either option to save someone we love, would we be able to go the extra mile and beat someone within an inch of their life? Or take it for that matter? Well, since we will likely never have to ponder upon such matters, thankfully, we have fiction to dive deep into those particular concepts for us. And it just so happens that the next episode of Breaking Bad, takes the time to force Walter White to think upon whether or not he’s capable of murder, and what consequences might come into play if he crossed that particular line, and that makes ‘…And the Bag’s in the River’ one powerful and dark tale, one that thankfully does find a way to lighten the mood here and there.

That particular feat is accomplished by way of Skyler and Walt Jr. and Marie and Hank. Since Skyler thinks her son is using weed and that motivates Marie to have her DEA husband try to scare Walt Jr. straight. An act that leads to some awkward and hilarious moments and it is a wonderful thing that this is present in this tale, since Walt’s journey really is devastating to say the least. Because with Emilio’s corpse out of the picture, only one loose end remains for Walt to deal with, and that’s Krazy-8. And in order to be free of any trouble and to get away with the money, Walt knows he is going to have to outright murder Krazy and dispose of the evidence and that… is more than he can bear. Because this wasn’t part of the plan, he just wanted to sell Meth and leave something behind for his children. But now, he might have to truly commit to every aspect of this business and that leads to some powerful moments.

The kind where Walt has to reconcile what he really wants out of this venture and whether or not a life of crime really is for him and that’s incredible to see play out on screen, since this is the kind of stuff crime dramas never cover in the slightest. And this powerful exploration is taken one step further by way of Walter’s stunning confrontation with Domingo (Krazy-8’s real name) in Jesse’s basement. Because he actually takes the time to get to know his potential victim and what kind of person he is, all in the hopes of not having to end his life. But alas, Domingo’s decision to hide a piece of broken plate, proves to Walter that he will find no noble intentions in this business, just chaos and strife and he realizes that his family will be at risk if he doesn’t do the unthinkable. And in the end, Walter answers those powerful questions posed earlier, with a resounding yes, all so his family can see another day. 

Which made for a stunning ending to say the least. Because part of you hopes that Walter is going to turn away from this life and this profession and embrace the time he has left in a more positive manner. But that’s not what this story is about, and his decision to kill here only pushes him deeper into the darkness. Because there really is no coming back from killing a man in cold blood, and well, now that Walter has made that decision, the other tough ones will come a little easier. As evidenced by his outright honesty with his wife and really in the end, this was simply one incredible episode. Because everything that happened here was powerful and compelling, and it offered up a different variety of character growth and it just speaks to the sheer genius and staying power of this series and truly, it compels you to continue the journey. In order to see just how deep down the rabbit hole, Walter White is willing to go. Until next time.

The other day when we settled in to discuss the wonder of Breaking Bad and its powerful pilot episode, we talked at length about how someone’s fall from grace outright fascinates us to no end, and how stories are quick to explore that in a unique and thrilling manner. But while there are plenty of tales that are eager to show us how and why someone embraces darkness and turns to a life of crime, once we get to the second stage of that transition, a great deal of these stories tend to fail their audience. Mainly because, our fallen hero is suddenly a criminal mastermind. One that is able to wreak havoc with impunity and surprising skill and organization and that… is just silly.

Because no one is a master of anything right away, and even going into a life of crime takes practice and dedication and trial and error. Which is why the next episode in this storied saga was so refreshing and morbidly delightful. Because ‘Cat’s in the Bag…’ really did take the time to explore the difficulties that come about, when one decides to go from a law-abiding citizen to a hardcore drug dealer. But it sure didn't seem as though that was going to be case at all, at first. Because early on, this episode felt as though it was going to play out in a more traditional manner for a crime themed tale, since Walter and Jesse had a simple plan in place, to deal with the bodies in the RV. Making it seem as though their transition from everyday folks to drug kingpins was going to be as smooth and cliché as can be.

But the fact that Krazy-8 was alive and mostly well, combined with the raw horror of the fact that Emilio was going to need to be dissolved in acid, brought about the complications and harsh realities that come with a life that is dedicated to crime and both of these men struggled mightily with their respective tasks and this transition. Because Walter quickly came to learn that just straight up murdering a man in cold blood is no easy task, since you have to look the man in the eye before you plunge the knife in, and poor Jesse had to deal with the unfortunate reality that there was going to be no easy way to dissolve Emilio’s body. Since they don’t really make human sized plastic containers for obvious reasons. And these unfortunate surprises led to some supremely hilarious moments in this particular tale. 

Such as how Walter had to tell some incredible lies in order to cover for his whereabouts and excessive time with Jesse. Which in turn, led to an awkward and powerhouse confrontation between Skyler and Jesse. One where she threatened Jesse with a visit from the DEA if he didn’t stop ‘selling’ Walter weed, and made this so quirky and wild, is the sheer fact that Jesse was in the middle of moving Emilio’s body into the house and oddly enough, this tense exchange led to the most incredible moment of this particular tale. Because the whole reason Jesse was hauling that corpse across his driveway, was to finally dispose of it in a proper manner. Which involved dragging it upstairs and dumping it in the tub before covering it with acid. A decision that ended up being the worst that Jesse has made to date, since the acid eventually ate through the tub and sent it and Emilio’s gooey remains cascading through the ceiling. 

Which is about as morbid as it gets and really, this episode deserves some serious credit for going bold and big when it comes to the dark humor present in this particular story. Simply because handling these moments in a quirky and somewhat goofy manner is the only way to make them palatable to an audience that isn’t expecting it. But what matters most, is that this episode did a phenomenal job of showing us how becoming a master criminal takes precious time and a whole lot of practice and whether Jesse and Walt like it or not, they’re going to have to hone their craft if they expect to be successful in the meth business. And to complicate their journey further, it looks as though the next great test of their mettle is heading their way, now that some random kids have discovered the gas mask they left behind when they fled that nasty brush fire. Until next time.    

There is no real-life storyline more fascinating, than when an everyday person turns to a life of crime. Simply because it just seems impossible that in the modern world, where opportunity exists for everyone, that people would be willing to turn their backs upon the rules and commit shocking crimes. But therein perhaps, lies the trick. Because our perception of the world and the reality of it are sometimes at a disconnect. For while we believe that opportunity and resources are everywhere for people in need of relief, they clearly don’t see things that way, nor do they find what they need. And by feeling as though the system has indeed outright failed them, they genuinely believe that they have no choice but to do something drastic and well… we know how that decision ends, with their mug shot popping up on the six o’clock news.
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If anything, their fall from grace is always a grand tragedy. The kind that happen often enough, that television shows and movies are eager to explore the various reasons that drive people to this point. And back in 2005, AMC aired a fascinating series premiere. One that dug deep into the circumstances surrounding a fall from grace, and that decision led to something quite special storytelling wise. Because to date, Breaking Bad has spawned a movie sequel and a supremely powerful prequel, all to explore what it is that makes decent people do such horrible things. But as we near the end of Better Call Saul’s television run, which will likely signal the end of this franchise as a whole, now seems like a perfect time to revisit that all-important ‘Pilot’ episode and wouldn’t you know it… fifteen years after its original airing, this particular tale still has great gravity and relevance.

Because Walter White and his plight, feels painfully familiar in 2020. Because seeing him more or less work himself to the bone to try and put food on the table, all while trying hard to raise a family, is a story we’ve heard time and time again, and that familiar horror is compounded further by the fact that he has horrible health insurance. Which motivates him to choose poor health over an actual diagnosis of his cancer and of course, he feels marginalized and is bored in regard to life outside of his family, making him a fascinating exploration of the modern American. And putting together that particular foundation for what would become an iconic character, helps us to understand why he turns to the proverbial dark side, so quickly. Because he is in fact, a man with nothing to lose; and they are always willing to do whatever it takes to find some semblance of happiness and peace.

But while it is impressive to see ties/commentary to modern times, it is the grandiose character study of Walter that plays out over the course of this pilot that makes it so worthwhile. Because in essence, we watch Walter’s downward spiral happen in real time, and it becomes obvious as this story rolls along that his disdain for how life has marginalized him, despite doing everything by the book, has been brewing for ages. Which is why he is so quick to just embrace the bad and lift a middle finger up to the world. Because going the criminal route, will finally put him on the map, and finally make him somebody relevant and watching him transform from meek and mousey schoolteacher to badass drug dealer over the course of the hour is powerful stuff for certain, and an outright testament to Bryan Cranston’s abilities as an actor. But really, it is the ending of this tale that truly stays with you long after this pilot has come to an end.

Simply because Walter makes it clear that if he is going to be able to avoid the authorities and any trouble that comes his way, he will take this new business venture as far as he can. Which means he is eager to skirt the line and stick it to the man while no one is the wiser and that makes him quite similar to his counterpart Saul Goodman, and the only difference between these two men is the sheer fact that Walter has enjoyed the good life and had his fill of it whereas Jimmy McGill was always trying to get a taste of Walter’s world. And it will be interesting to not only watch Mister White work to maintain the balance between two worlds as this journey through Breaking Bad continues, but to see him lose control of the darkness that has been brewing within him for some time now. A darkness that exists simply because he fully believes that the world has failed him, and that the only way to get by in some instances, is to throw the rule book out and do things your own way. Until next time.

Something that is truly fascinating, when it comes to celebrities in America, is the sheer fact that the general public tends to put them in a special class, all of their own. Where they are viewed in a different light and regarded as special people, the kind that harbor an incredible drive to be the best at what they do and apparently, live their lives in a manner that is quite different from us every day folk. But that is quite frankly, an incorrect way to view celebrities. Simply because, they are indeed human beings like the rest of us, they just so happen to be extremely good at their chosen career field, one that just so happens to put them in the public eye.
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But how does the public truly come to understand that celebrities are people too, and have hopes and dreams and bucket lists like the rest of us? Well one handy way to make that happen, is to enjoy a documentary that revolves around someone in the limelight, and potentially go on an intimate journey with them during that tale. So that we can really see them for the person they are, and it just so happens that AppleTV+ is about to debut a documentary that meets that respective criteria. For Long Way Up is a documentary that features actor Ewan McGregor and his best friend Charley Boorman as they work to complete a long-standing personal mission; to ride motorcycles around the world. And when we catch up with them here, they’re making preparations to spend the next one-hundred days, traveling from the southernmost tip of Argentina to Los Angeles, in order to complete this dream journey.

Which sounds like the quite the daunting and challenging venture, and it is for certain. But there will be little discussion about the details when it comes to their bold voyage. No instead, it is best we talk about what makes this series such a compelling watch and how it manages to humanize one of Hollywood’s biggest stars, and really, it’s best we start with the latter topic, first. Because this is simply Ewan McGregor in the raw, and he is quick to share his innermost thoughts on his love of travel and what his good friends mean to him, and hearing those thoughts aloud and seeing him sip on coffee or express his concerns about this trip, completely removes any mystique surrounding the man. Allowing for the audience to understand that he is indeed like the rest of us. Plus, we also quickly learn, that he is supremely eager to get this trip going, so he can soak in all the sights of the world and enjoy the wonders and comforts that other cultures offer.

But what’s truly impressive about this documentary, is that said sense of wonder extends beyond the majesty of other cultures. Because this is after all, a road trip, and a grand one at that. And being able to accompany Ewan and Charley every single step of the way, allows for the viewer to bask in the true majesty of the world. Because you are privy to some downright breathtaking views in this series, and you’re able to visit some unique places that you didn’t have a clue existed and being in the thick of it and enjoying every waking moment of this journey, invests the viewer in every way imaginable. Because now you want to see what other incredible sights and sounds await Ewan and Charley on their journey, and of course, you want nothing more than to see these two fine gents cross the finish line, on time.

In the end however, this is a fascinating documentary. Simply because it holds nothing back, and you are truly privy to every emotion imaginable when it comes to planning and executing an epic road trip. Plus, it also features an interesting twist in regard to how Ewan and Charley travel across the continents, one that we here at NTG are dying to reveal. But alas, it’s best we wait so you can enjoy the wonder of that discovery, when this series makes its debut on AppleTV+ on September 18, 2020 and we genuinely do hope you tune in. Because this documentary really is something special and unlike any other out there, and it really is going to be quite powerful to witness every singe challenge that Ewan and Charley are going to face, and every single victory, when their journey north gets underway. Until then.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 2801 of ‘Top Gear’.
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Ah, the end of summer. A wondrous time where we do everything we can, to enjoy those last gasps of sunshine and beautiful weather before the cold rolls in. And often times, that includes trying to sneak in one last road trip. Just to enjoy that feeling of freedom that summer provides us with, one more time. Or rather, that’s precisely what we would do… in any other year outside of 2020. For obvious reasons of course. But while we might not be able to just hop in the car and drive where the highway takes us right now, we can still enjoy some semblance of that journey, by living vicariously through television shows like Top Gear. Since Sunday’s episode allowed for us to tag along on one unique road trip.
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Because this week’s tale, saw the lads purchase some inexpensive summer rides, to determine which of them had selected the ultimate summer/road trip car and well, as is often the case on this series, the boys made some fascinating and dubious choices. Paddy for instance, went the safe route with a Ford Escort Cabriolet. While Chris once again found a way to get his hands on something luxurious at the right price by snagging the Mercedes Benz SLX and of course… Freddie chose something off the wall by getting his hands on the Chrysler LeBaron, one that was in questionable shape. And in order to figure out which one of those vehicles would earn the aforementioned title, the lads were to drive this convoy of value rides up toward the Essex Coast, wherein they would face some incredible and downright hilarious challenges along the way.

Such as trying to drive their cars in ‘sweaty’ conditions. Something that was simulated by having lube blasted in their faces whilst they worked to navigate a racetrack. A twist that led to disaster for Paddy early on. But Chris was kind enough to give him another shot at the challenge, allowing for him to earn an important win. Plus, you can’t go wrong with putting the boys in some unique outfits such as; Goalie gear (Freddie), a Knight’s armor (Paddy) and an inflatable T-Rex suit (Chris), to protect them while they worked to fill their convertibles up with golf balls at a driving range. And those wacky and side-splitting moments were balanced out nicely by way of a summer driving simulation and one watery challenge. Wherein the lads had to navigate around RVs and the like and avoid the Stig, and they also had to try and cross a causeway that was filling up with the tide; in order to bring their competition for the ultimate summer/road trip car, to a close.

A victory that Paddy enjoyed simply because he was the only one to make it across the causeway when all is said and done, giving him yet another win behind the wheel of a Ford Escort. But while it was cool to see the Cabriolet win the day, there were more incredible moments to be had in this episode. Because what would an episode of TG be without a supercar review? And Chris was kind enough to test out the Ariel Atom 4 and inform us that it is quite the affordable high-speed ride, and if dropping forty grand on a car that resembles an F-1 racing car isn’t enough for the thrill seeker in your soul, there is another way to get your heart pounding. For you could follow in Freddie’s footsteps, and bungie jump off of a dam, while sitting inside a coupe, because why the heck not? After all, it can’t be that hard to assemble a stunt crew, and engineers for the weekend, atop a dam, right? 

In the end however, this was simply a fun episode through and through. One that quite frankly kept the laughs coming. Because watching the guys get blasted in the face with lube, and seeing their cars get demolished by golf balls is the stuff of comedic legend. Plus, it was super nice to live vicariously through the show and go on a delightful road trip before summer comes to a close and well, you simply cannot go wrong with a story that puts a smile on your face. But what matters more, is that this episode did a phenomenal job of easing us back into the standard format of the series, since it served as a wonderful bridge between the ‘Nepal Special’ and what we love about the show. And now that it is back to business as usual on Top Gear, this reviewer simply cannot wait to see what kinds of wild adventures and incredible supercar reviews await us, as season 28 rolls along. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the finale of ‘Earthflight’.
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When we take the time to enjoy a beautiful documentary about our world that focuses upon the endless wildlife that lives alongside us, we tend to just focus on the wonder of the end result and understandably so. After all, we are tuning in to enjoy a story about creatures we likely wish to learn more about, and that allows for thoughts about how the film crew captured a particular shot or even got that close to a particular animal, to simply slip our minds. Because we are indeed lost in the power of the experience. But a great many people did indeed dedicate years of their lives to bring us that breathtaking footage, and they deserve their day in the sun just like anyone else, and that’s why last night’s finale of Earthflight was so supremely satisfying.
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Because ‘Flying High’ took the time to break down how this incredible documentary about birds came together and what we learned about this particular process, was nothing short of spectacular. Because on several occasions, some of the birds featured in this tale, were trained by human hands. Which was stunning to learn since it really did seem as though all of the breathtaking cinematography in this documentary, was filmed in the skies with special lenses and gear. But clearly, grabbing that much footage in that manner, was downright impossible. So, the fine folks that train and nurture birds were given a camera and went off to shoot what their feathered children do best. In order to show all of us how majestic birds are in flight and that, despite their training; they are still animals through and through.

Because on several occasions, these trained birds decided that the beautiful world surrounding them was worth exploring, and that led to some harrowing sequences for the folks that trained them. The kind that allowed for us to venture through the streets of Brooklyn, New York, in order to find some geese that decided that grazing in the park was a far better way to spend their afternoon than in front of the camera. And we were also privy to one intense search in Africa, when a vulture decided to land wherever it pleased, so it could take a little time to soak up the wonder of that beautiful place. Despite the fact that its decision to do so, scared its trainer. But thankfully both of these stories ended happy, since trainer and bird were reunited no problem and it was simply amazing to see bird and man working together to shoot a documentary in this manner. 

But of course, one cannot film a complete documentary on trained birds alone. There had to be some measure of studying them in the wild and the folks behind the scenes were quite creative in making that happen. Because somewhere along the line, a drone that was converted into a vulture was used to get some up and close and personal footage of those particular birds of prey in the wild. Plus, a wonderful combination of crane work and stealth is what helped us to understand how the Bald Eagle hunts salmon alongside bears and it also took a grandiose team of spotters and cinematographers to capture the arrival of storks in Europe and really, it is the dedication that the film crew and the trainers exhibited in this finale that made it so incredibly powerful.

For it is obvious that everyone that worked on Earthflight truly wanted to teach the world about birds and the wondrous and intricate lives they lead and well, they definitely accomplished their mission. Because everything we learned in this documentary was breathtaking and fascinating, and now that we have an understanding of how this story came to life, a newfound appreciation and respect will follow this documentary. Because what we saw here was but a fraction of the four years of work that went into this particular tale and that’s simply amazing. But what matters most, is that this story also helps to remind us, that we need to properly appreciate the wonder of nature and pay it the respect it is due. And thanks to this documentary; it is definitely safe to say that all of us will take that to heart and look at everyday birds a little differently. Now that we know their days are filled with wonder and quirks and habits, just like the rest of us.