Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Series Premiere of ‘Three Women’.
Whether we like to admit it or not, the citizens of the United States of American live under quite the false pretense. Specifically, that everyone in the USA is treated equally in 2024. Which is a statement that will immediately roll some eyes but think about it for a moment. After all, there is still incredible prejudice and racism alive in America, and people are still looked down upon and shunned for their sexual preferences and the discovery that they are not comfortable with their gender. Not to mention… women are treated like second class citizens. For women are denied something as simple as body autonomy in the USA, and they are paid less than their male counterparts for the same work, decried (incorrectly) as always being too emotional and have high and strange expectations upon them. Yet there are so many who continue to claim life Is great for women in America, and well… the big question that remains at this point… is how do we wake everyone up to the fact that things are not equal in this day and age? Well storytelling is one way, since it can add perspective and that is why the new STARZ series, Three Women, is of note. Since it manages to accomplish just that in its pilot episode. For ‘three women’ is a story that introduces us to a struggling writer named Gia who is looking for the right human story to tell, one that truly showcases something powerful, and after receiving some absolutely awful advice from her writing mentor, she sets out into the countryside to find her story and what she uncovers is quite incredible. For she meets three women with stunning stories of inequality to tell. For instance, there is Lina, a housewife from Indiana who is… a housewife from Indiana. One starved for touch, intimacy, and is desperate to be seen and desired. Plus, there’s Sloane. A well to do woman with plenty riding for her, but she lacks respect in this life and is seen more often than not as an object of desire over someone of substance.
Lastly, there’s Maggie, an everyday small-town woman that has seen her future be derailed by way of a scandalous affair with the town’s most cherished teacher. A man that everyone sees as a pillar of the community, but clearly enjoys abusing his standing. Since his machinations have deeply rattled Maggie and well, that’s quite the setup for this story. For this truly showcases three lives of three women that make up the real fabric of America. For there are so many who wish to be more than the norms that are demanded of them, like Lina, and want to be desired and cherished. Plus, there are so many women akin to Sloane that are reviled for being successful in a nation where we prize that, but let’s be honest… only for men.
Of course, Maggie represents one of the worst ways that women are treated and viewed in this country. For she happened to be an object of desire, one to be cast off when the charm and allure of using her faded. All of which truly explores corners of American life that we don’t think about and don’t care to. Because there is comfort to be found in just believing that progress has taken place, and all is well. But the hard reality is that women are still seen and preferred to not be heard and are denied agency far more often than they should and well, that’s why hearing their stories, and the stories present here are critical. So that at last, the opposite can take place. All of which brings about an amazing series premiere, one that truly paints an incredible and unsettling picture of life in the United States of America and makes clear that equality is a joke in 2024. But as this premiere implies, that doesn’t have to be the norm and with some learning and some push… perhaps we can get there. Yet while that alone would be enough to carry this premiere and this series, we’d be remiss to not point out that the amazing actors present here only add to the wonder of this story. Since Shailene Woodley (Gia), Betty Gilpin (Leah), DeWanda Wise (Sloane), and Gabrielle Creevy (Maggie) add incredible gravity to every single moment, and well, all of this makes for a must-see series. For this is that rare show that captures the human condition and offers nothing but honesty, and it will be interesting to see what other truths lie ahead as this series continue along. Until next time. Watch ‘Three Women’
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Written by John Edward Betancourt Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Two of ‘The Chicken Sisters’. To revisit the Series Premiere, click here. When we last settled in to discuss the fascinating new Hallmark+ series, The Chicken Sisters, we talked at length about how the show’s series premiere, defied convention. Because normally, stories that feature family feuds or a family shattered by misunderstandings from the past, are supremely fluffy and fun in nature, and make it clear it will be easy for all those folks to reconcile and find love in their hearts again, before ending the story with a big family meal and smiles and joy. Whereas this series premiere reminded us that such matters are messy. Courtesy of some very real-world elements from characters we can relate to, and well, this is top of mind today… simply because the next chapter in this saga, shattered more tropes regarding such stories. A feat that ‘We’re on the Same Side, Y’all’ accomplished… after it outright fooled us. Because at first, this story seemed to be steeped in convention. Because as filming started, there were some lovely epiphanies that took place. For instance, Mae realized that her A-type personality caused harm sometimes and that prompted her to reach out to her mother and her sister in a more even keel manner. To help them understand what she wanted to accomplish by coming home for this. Which allowed for her and Gus to find some common ground and even help one another move forward regarding plans on how best to win the show. Making it seem as though… this was indeed going the standard route. But thankfully, that was just to remind us of how those conventions can fail this kind of story, because… none of us wanted an easy out for Mae, and that’s when the story shifted gears, and defied the ‘easy bake heal’ trope present by informing us… that it is just not that simple for a family or an individual to move forward after years of struggles. Which was why, Mae and Amanda both came to learn, that lies, unfinished business, and old grudges, won’t allow for quick healing. It will instead, lead to mistakes and bad blood and misunderstandings. Because Amanda did have some frank talks with Sabrina to vent about those very issues and frustrations. Who of course… exploited those talks for television, and that would come back to haunt. Because Mae did find out what Amanda said and that infuriated her to no end and prompted her to lash out, but at the same time… her anger stemmed less from an act of betrayal and more from the fact that her life was a lie. And having the truth exposed scared her and terrified her because she had some deep-rooted fears and traumas about the past and has yet to accept her core identity. Yet, while that could have carried this episode no problem and spoken deeply to that central theme, it wanted to showcase how this process won’t be easy for everyone involved in the story. Which was why this story dug deep into Nancy’s life, and showcased how years of generational expectations can diminish a person and leave them wondering what their worth actually is. Since she discovered she was a natural in front of the camera and that she enjoyed a little sliver of the spotlight and that for her, her journey will have entail finding agency and a voice she never had because of the expectations laid down upon her, and that won’t be an easy task. Not with a son who reinforces such matters. All of which made, for a supremely powerful story. One that truly hammered home that it isn’t enough to just go home again and expect for everything to be okay. Because to really find that peace, we need to face our own demons, find our worth and do the work to heal. Only then can we forgive, forget and move forward as one with our family and that was just incredible to see play out here. Because we don’t see enough of that in stories in this vein and that continues to make this series so worth our while. Because this is revolutionary stuff for these types of stories, and these are lessons we all need in our lives. Because much like the characters in this story, we too lose our way and make these kinds of mistakes and truly… that engages us into this journey further and leaves us eager to see how the healing will begin for these broken yet hopeful individuals. Until next time. Watch ‘The Chicken Sisters’ on Hallmark+. Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 206 of ‘Kold x Windy’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
If there is one particular question, we all ponder upon when it comes to life’s struggles, it would have to be… what motivates us to finally start to change? Simply because, there’s no guide on how to change in this life, and when we are in the midst of ugly times and tough struggles where we know a change will make a difference, we haven’t a clue how to grab hold of change. We just seem to chug along and struggle and be outright angry over the fact that nothing seems to be going our way. But there is in fact, a moment where that motivation finally comes to into play, and it is something that is known… as rock bottom. Because in that place, we are at our worst, and we truly cannot sink any lower. Which means that we have nothing left to lose, and the moment is upon us to do something and do something drastic and well… that moment is top of mind today, because Malika was in the midst of it during this week’s episode of Kold x Windy on ALLBLK. For ‘Times Up’ saw Malika in quite the mess. For she was asked by the cartel to perform a dangerous and epic stain, and she of course… was worried about losing her baby over the stress of this all, and nothing was going her way. So, she was truly at her lowest here… and that pushed her… to change her fortunes through some bold decisions. Such as, having her father go out into the world, with a hacked ankle bracelet, and find mommy dearest. To bring her to bear for her crimes and to get Malika out from under the control of the cartel. Not to mention, this was her chance to prove her worth to them, and to herself when it came to her genius as a criminal. Which doesn’t necessarily sound like a positive thought, but dark acts can motivate folks to use their powers and talents for good later on and well, this grand push to just… make something happen, paid off in spades. In part because she did get the cartel to offer a smidge of respect. Which she nearly lost thanks to Renee’s desire to get a little slice of the pie from this stain. But it was less heat upon her, and her other decision… also moved her life in the right direction. Because her dad did indeed find ol’ Brenda. Hiding in Detroit, and after a quick and intense romantic encounter between two old lovers, Brenda found herself stuffed in the trunk of a car. Because Benji was a man of his word and he promised to bring Brenda home to pay the piper, so at last… Malika could be free. Yet, dear old dad did more than just bring mother home, he also put down Pop Off for running his mouth and disrespecting the family. And just like that, Malika’s life was starting to take a turn for the better. Not to mention, her desperate edict to get the band a gig paid off, because Lollapalooza was interested after all and truly, these wins and the decision to just go for broke, transformed Malika’s outlook on life and put her on a path toward change. Wherein she can now seize the day, enjoy agency and hopefully… propel the band to the success it deserves. All of which sets the stage for an amazing season two finale. But before we prepare for that, we can reflect upon another genius tale. One that really did explore the complex idea of hitting rock bottom and how our desire to be more in that moment can do good. Heck, it even served Shelly well since the loss of a dear friend prompted her to think upon a new life. Giving rise to real hope at last in this story, the kind that we certainly hope takes root and propels this duo to new heights. So, they can finally be on the path they’ve always wanted and find the peace they crave. Until next time. Watch ‘Kold x Windy’
Written by John Edward Betancourt When we think of AMC Networks and its spin off channel, Acorn TV, we think of quality scripted programming. The kind that features engaging stories that captivate our imaginations and engage us like never before. Because that’s just the specialty of this network group, and we are most certainly just fine with kicking back and enjoying all the amazing stories AMC and its many channels, have to offer. But of course, it’s not enough for the creative minds at AMC Networks to just settle and stay the course. They’re eager to see what they can accomplish in just about every arena of storytelling, and that’s why today’s announcement makes sense. Since earlier, AMC Studios and Acorn TV let it be known that their first ever, unscripted series will be coming to Acorn TV, entitled, Relative Secrets. Which will explore genealogy and dark secrets regarding family life, and it will be hosted by the one, the only, Jane Seymour. And well, to do this wondrous announcement the justice it deserves, here are all the details on this new show, courtesy of AMC Networks. ‘AMC Networks’ Acorn TV, AMC Studios and Cream Productions today announced the greenlight of Acorn TV’s first unscripted original series, Relative Secrets. Hosted by acclaimed actress and Acorn TV’s Harry Wild star Jane Seymour (Live and Let Die, East of Eden, Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman), the investigative series, part true-crime and part genealogy, will delve into participants’ family histories—and discover the dark truths buried in their bloodlines. “I’m thrilled to come aboard Relative Secrets as host, deepening my rich relationship with Acorn TV,” said Seymour. “Now, in addition to solving cleverly crafted mysteries on Harry Wild, I get the chance to uncover real family unknowns. As we all know, reality is often much stranger than fiction – I can’t wait to dive in.” Each episode in this suspenseful new series from Cream Productions, makers of chilling unscripted programs Fear Thy Neighbor, Murder U, and BTK: A Killer Among Us, will investigate an everyday American family’s darkest mystery, aiming both to solve the mystery and explore how it shapes that family today. Colorful characters, rich cultural context and dramatic twists and turns abound in every tale, each of which connects the American family to their UK heritage. Along the way, we’ll meet charismatic heroes and terrifying villains, ranging from a 99-year-old World War II veteran who worries his absence led to the murder of his grandmother, to the daughter of a serial killer desperate to carve out her own identity from her father’s sordid past to a mother who abandoned her three children to start a new secret life. Host Seymour oversees the overall investigation in each episode, which is led by archaeologist Natasha Billson (The Great British Dig). “We are delighted to begin Acorn TV’s journey into unscripted Originals with Relative Secrets and the incredible Jane Seymour. This series blends true crime and investigation with the thrilling mystery storytelling Acorn TV audiences know and love, creating something truly special,” said Don Klees, Senior Vice President, Programming, Acorn TV. Relative Secrets is executive produced by David W. Brady, Kate Harrison Karman, John Ealer and Seymour. Ealer and Series Producer Felicity Justrabo serve as series writers and directors. Relative Secrets is an Acorn TV Original Series produced by Cream Productions for AMC Studios. AMC Studios is the exclusive international distributor of the series. About Acorn TV AMC Networks’ Acorn TV is North America’s largest streaming service specializing in premium British and international television. Acorn TV adds exclusive programming every week to a deep library of revered mysteries, dramas, and comedies – all commercial-free. Acorn TV’s recent slate is comprised of critically acclaimed commissioned and original series including popular New Zealand detective series My Life Is Murder (Lucy Lawless), acclaimed Irish crime thriller Bloodlands (James Nesbitt, co-executive produced by Jed Mercurio), British crime drama Whitstable Pearl (Kerry Godliman), Kiwi romantic comedy Under the Vines and British detective drama Dalgliesh (Bertie Carvel), to name a few. Current and upcoming Acorn TV Original Series include UK detective drama Harry Wild (Jane Seymour), Signora Volpe (Emilia Fox), The Chelsea Detective (Adrian Scarborough) and many more. The above add to a growing catalog of popular bingeable dramas including Jack Irish (Guy Pearce), Doc Martin (Martin Clunes), Deadwater Fell (David Tennant, Cush Jumbo), all 24 seasons of fan-favorite Midsomer Murders and highly-rated drama The Nest, among others. “… glorious streaming service… an essential must-have” – The Hollywood Reporter “Netflix for the Anglophile” – NPR Acorn TV is available for $7.99/month or $79.99/year. Facebook: OfficialAcornTV – Twitter: @AcornTV – Instagram: @Acorn_tv About Cream Productions Based in Toronto, Cream Productions develops, finances and produces distinctive and award-winning content across a wide range of genres in North America and internationally. The company’s many credits include An Optimist’s Guide to the Planet with Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, The Story of Late Night, History of the Sitcom, Age of Samurai: Battle for Japan, All or Nothing: Toronto Maple Leafs, nine seasons of the hit Fear Thy Neighbor and feature documentaries Nike’s Big Bet and Beautiful Scars. The company has also partnered on several television projects with renowned filmmaker Eli Roth to produce Urban Legend, The Haunted Museum with Zak Bagans, Eli Roth Presents: A Ghost Ruined My Life and Eli Roth’s Haunted House: Trick VR Treat, a virtual-reality experience for META that stars Vanessa Hudgens.’ Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Season One Finale of ‘Wayne Brady: The Family Remix’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
More often than not, reality television shows that harbor a goal or an endgame for their cast, quickly end when those goals are achieved or that endgame is reached, and rightfully so. For the story has reached it end, there’s nothing left to tell, and that’s so commonplace in film and television that we don’t think twice about it. But perhaps we should. Because in real life, when we reach an endgame or complete a goal… there is more to the story. For now, there are new chapters on the horizon, and reflection and meaning regarding what we’ve just experienced, and it is important to acknowledge that and explore what that looks like. Which is why the next episode of Wayne Brady: The Family Remix on Freeform, is such an important piece of television. Because ‘Run This Town’ could have been a quick wrap-up episode. After all, Wayne had spoken his truth, and the initial response on the internet was extremely positive. So that would have been that on any other show. Because he did the thing. So, the end. But thankfully, this chapter just kept looking at what comes next. Such as how, Wayne being a proud and out, Pansexual, also involved thinking about what dating was going to look like going forward. Because now… he had to think upon what his perfect partner would look like and start to learn about what his partner might want and whether or not that aligned with his needs. Making it clear that a new chapter in Wayne’s dating life was on the horizon, and Wayne learned that there was more work to be done in finding acceptance for his truth. For he still had to sit down and talk with his mother about this. Because it wasn’t a subject broached before, and that was tough. Because that’s no easy task, especially when a parent comes from a different generation that doesn’t quite understand modern concepts. But thankfully they found common ground. Plus, this episode also informed us… that life goes on when we hit those goals, and we must adapt accordingly. As evidenced by how Maile had to figure out how to handle the fact that Tina was going to be around as the family blended. All of which spoke to how quickly we must shift when those big goals are completed in our lives. However, this finale also informed us… that we cannot forget to celebrate what we achieve and revel in it. Because it took hard work to get there, and Wayne made sure to do that. By performing at a GLAAD event, and he made sure to sing the piece that helped him to understand his truth and that led to powerful moments for certain. Wherein Wayne really was at peace and finding joy in life once again, and he felt more closer to his family than ever. Because they went with him on this journey and helped him to understand his real emotional needs. Which made his reflection on stage all the more powerful, and all the more lovely. Because that was the end of that leg of the journey, and now… it truly is onto the next one for Wayne and his family. As to whether or not we see that play out further on television, we do not know. For as of press time, this series remains in limbo when it comes to a second season order, and we here at NTG, hope it gets another year. Because truly, this has been quite the refreshing experience. One filled with real truth and real moments. Plus, it would be lovely to see how Wayne grows as a person and a performer with real peace in his heart in a second season. But while we wait to hear the (hopefully good) news, we can celebrate one lovely season finale. One that genuinely explored what comes after the biggest moments in our lives, and how they do transform us, and that just made for amazing television plain and simple, the kind that hopefully inspires others to speak their truth and embrace who they are… since that is clearly a big key to finding happiness in this life. Watch ‘Wayne Brady: The Family Remix’
Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 209 of ‘The Ark’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
Often times, science fiction stories that are eager to explore what humanity could become if it were to leave old haunts behind and unify as a species… show us the end result of that quest, for several reasons. In part because seeing humanity at its best, informs us immediately that we can do it. We can put our differences aside and forget the small stuff and truly work toward a better tomorrow where all are equal, and it truly is inspiring to see that and even offers catharsis. Especially during these trying times where it seems as though, we might not ever find that unity. Because of how deeply entrenched people are in their belief that their side, is the right side. Which brings us to the other reason as to why that positive angle tends to be the focus of these stories. Because we often forget… that sadly… to achieve that peace, great suffering must come into play. Wherein there is great conflict and great sacrifice before those beliefs fall, and unity is finally before us. Which makes these stories escapist to a certain degree, and it is why The Ark on SYFY continues to be a revolutionary science fiction series. Because it is willing to explore those difficult first days, where those fundamental battles happen before progress is made, as evidenced by this week’s episode. A feat that ‘Cycle of Violence’ accomplished by plunging us into an intense cat and mouse game. One that saw Ark 1 immediately on the run to escape the Eastern Federation, only to have them… tail our heroes to their next destination. Making it clear that the EF had some manner in which to track the ship. Which as it turned out, was the shuttle, and sadly, with both ships recharging their FTL drives… a scary standoff ensued. One full of bluster and bravado and even weapons fire came into play. All because the EF wanted the shuttle back and wanted the late Bojan back aboard their ship. But thankfully, once there was a lull in the posturing, Captain Garnet had one hell of an idea. In that, this moment was the perfect time to engage in peace talks with the Eastern Federation and try to forge a better path forward than the mutually assured destruction both sides with toying with. A move that at first, seemed to be a titanic was of time. Because despite agreeing to risky terms, such as swapping crew members while Captain Zed Avega of the EF was aboard Ark 1, as insurance, there was no progress. Just constant bickering, constant distrust, even with Ian doing his best to keep things even keel. Which prompted Garnet to just… go for broke and speak from the heart, to finally get across what she wanted to get across. Wherein she expressed that they were all that was left of humanity, and they had to start thinking differently to survive and move forward. And that message resonated deep with Zed, to the point where he agreed to a grand plan to have Ark 1 pave the path for them at the new colony. Because the cycle of violence did have to end, and unity had to come into play. But alas, that’s not a sentiment that was shared in this tale. Which brought about suffering and sacrifice. The kind that saw Zed take a knife from his first officer over betraying the principles of the EF, and saw Lieutenant Lane, suffer awful injuries in the ensuing take down to save Zed from a swift death. But alas, Zed was badly injured and in critical condition, and Lane was faring no better. That brought about a powerful discussion about how best to save this fragile peace since the EF ship was ready to open fire with their captain in danger. So, Garnet made a tough choice based on Ian’s recommendation. In that, with Lane’s health spiraling, it was best to use his liver to save Zed… and while that did showcase a beautiful push forward toward lasting peace, the fight for it cost this crew one of their own, a real hero that was beloved by the fans as well. Making this a devastating episode, one that will stay with us for some time. In part because of its bold decision to kill off a fan favorite character, but also because of the powerful moments it showcased. For now, we know that peace has its price, and it is a high one, and sadly… that is how the path toward a utopia begins. But while that is bittersweet, it does make sense. Because we cannot understand what to cherish, without losing something wondrous. Until next time. Watch ‘The Ark’
Written by John Edward Betancourt
It is definitely safe to say that Apple TV+ continues to push toward becoming the world’s premier streamer. Because not only are they eager to continue to bring forth award winning programs that are original and refreshing, alongside producing some of the finest family entertainment out there… but they are also looking to add amazing international programming into their lineup. So that viewers have a healthy selection of shows and movies to choose from and for proof… look at their upcoming fall lineup.
Since the French, fashioned themed series, La Maison, will soon debut, as will the Spanish Language medical drama, Midnight Family. Plus, we are in the midst of enjoying the powerhouse Spanish Language series, Women in Blue (Las Azules) on the network, and there is more on the horizon. For recently Apple let it be known that the dark comedy series, Where’s Wanda?, which hails from the land of Germany, will soon be making its debut on the streamer and that particular gem is of note… simply because Apple TV+ made a point to release a trailer for it today. To showcase this inventive new series, and to properly celebrate its pending arrival, here is that trailer and all the details regarding the show. As we prepare to once again travel about the globe via Apple TV+. ‘Apple TV+ today unveiled the trailer for “Where’s Wanda?,” the eight-episode German-language dark comedy, produced by UFA Fiction, stars International Emmy Award nominee Heike Makatsch (“Love Actually”), German Comedy Award winner Axel Stein (“The Vault”), multiple award-winning actress Lea Drinda ("The Gryphon”), newcomer Leo Simon, entrepreneur, actress and author Nikeata Thompson (“How to Dad”), presenter and actress Palina Rojinski (“Welcome to Germany”), Kostja Ullmann (“My Blind Date With Life”) and rising star Harriet Herbig-Matten (“Maxton Hall”). Apple TV+’s first German original will premiere globally with the first two episodes on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, followed by one episode weekly through November 13. “Where’s Wanda?” tells the story of Dedo and Carlotta Klatt (Stein and Makatsch), who are desperate to locate their missing 17-year-old daughter Wanda (Drinda), who disappeared months ago without a trace. When the police fail to find her, the family takes matters into their own hands, obtaining surveillance devices with the help of their tech-savvy son Ole (Simon). Disguising themselves as employees of an electrical company, they bug first their neighborhood and then half their suburb, finding out that behind closed doors none of their neighbors are who they pretend to be. The series also features Devid Striesow (“All Quiet on the Western Front”), Jasmin Shakeri (“The Magic Flute”) and Joachim Król (“The Most Desired Man”). Hailing from UFA Fiction, a Fremantle company, “Where’s Wanda?” is created, written and executive produced by Royal Television Society nominee Oliver Lansley (“Flack”), alongside multiple award-winning executive producers Nataly Kudiabor (“Arthur’s Law”) and Sebastian Werninger (“The Physician”). The series is co-created and based on a story by Zoltan Spirandelli (“Vaya con Dios”). “Where’s Wanda?” is directed by critically acclaimed award-winning filmmakers Christian Ditter (“How To Be Single”), Tobi Baumann (“Faking Hitler”) and Facundo Scalerandi (“How to Sell Drugs Online (Fast)”). Ditter also serves as an 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 been honored with 511 wins and 2,308 award nominations and counting, including multi-Emmy Award-winning comedy “Ted Lasso” and historic Oscar Best Picture winner “CODA.” About Apple TV+ Apple TV+ is available on the Apple TV app in over 100 countries and regions, on over 1 billion screens, including iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Apple Vision Pro, Mac, popular smart TVs from Samsung, LG, Sony, VIZIO, TCL and others, Roku and Amazon Fire TV devices, Chromecast with Google TV, PlayStation and Xbox gaming consoles, and at tv.apple.com, for $9.99 per month with a seven-day free trial for new subscribers. For a limited time, customers who purchase and activate a new iPhone, iPad, Apple TV or Mac can enjoy three months of Apple TV+ for free.* *For more information, visit apple.com/tvpr and see the full list of supported devices. *Special offer is good for three months after the first activation of the eligible device. One offer per Family Sharing group. Plans automatically renew until canceled. Other restrictions and terms apply; visit apple.com/promo for more information.’ Written by John Edward Betancourt
It is definitely safe to say that this year’s fall television lineup is quite impressive in nature, courtesy of the fact that everyone, both network and streaming, are bringing some incredible shows to the table. The kind that includes original concepts and refreshing new stories, along with some returning favorites and there’s even some big action and adventure shows on the horizon, such as the new Citadel shows from Prime Video. Since we are getting not one, but two, expansion shows in this unique and lovely franchise and since we are inching closer to the release of Citadel: Diana, Prime Video though now was a good time to build more excitement for the show.
All by releasing an official, full-length trailer for the show. One that quickly informs us that everything we loved about the original series will be present, and further enhanced by dynamic new characters and an incredible sweeping story that will captivate. But of course, you don’t just have to take our word for it, because Prime Video made sure to share that amazing trailer with us, so that we can share it with all of you, now. Along with updated details on the show. So, you too can be in awe of what we watched, as we all continue the countdown to the next chapter in this quickly growing and impressive franchise. ‘Prime Video debuted the action-packed trailer and official key art for Citadel: Diana, the highly anticipated Italian series born from the world of Citadel, produced by Cattleya—part of ITV Studios— and Amazon MGM Studios, and executive produced by the Russo Brothers’ AGBO. Citadel: Diana stars Matilda De Angelis (The Undoing) in a tour de force performance as the central character and also features an international cast, including Lorenzo Cervasio, Maurizio Lombardi, Julia Piaton, Thekla Reuten, Giordana Faggiano, Daniele Paoloni, Bernhard Schütz and Filippo Nigro. All six episodes of the new spy series will debut exclusively on Prime Video globally on October 10. Citadel: Diana is directed by Arnaldo Catinari and developed by Alessandro Fabbri, who is also the head writer, and wrote the series with Ilaria Bernardini, Gianluca Bernardini, Laura Colella and Giordana Mari. Citadel: Diana is produced by Amazon MGM Studios with Cattleya (ZeroZeroZero)—part of ITV Studios—and showrunner and executive producer Gina Gardini, with Riccardo Tozzi, Marco Chimenz, Giovanni Stabilini and Emanuele Savoini also serving as executive producers, and with the support of Italian Ministry of Culture - Directorate General for Cinema and Audiovisual. Anthony Russo, Joe Russo, Angela Russo-Otstot, and Scott Nemes from AGBO, alongside David Weil (Hunters), executive produce Citadel: Diana and all series within the world of Citadel. Midnight Radio is also an executive producer. Citadel: Diana Synopsis Milan, 2030: Eight years ago, the independent global spy agency Citadel was destroyed by the powerful enemy syndicate, Manticore. Since then, Diana Cavalieri (Matilda De Angelis), an undercover Citadel agent, is alone, trapped behind enemy lines as a mole in Manticore. When she finally sees a way out and the chance to disappear forever, the only way to do so is trusting the most unexpected ally, Edo Zani (Lorenzo Cervasio), the heir of Manticore Italy and son of the head of the Italian organization, Ettore Zani (Maurizio Lombardi), who’s vying for leadership against the other European families. About the World of Citadel The first season of Citadel, starring Richard Madden and Priyanka Chopra Jonas alongside Stanley Tucci and Lesley Manville, premiered to global success in 2023, becoming Prime Video’s second most-watched new original series outside the U.S., and fourth most-watched worldwide, after 24 days. Executive produced by the Russo Brothers' AGBO, Citadeland its subsequent action-espionage Original Series traverse the globe, evolving the story of spy agency Citadel and its powerful enemy syndicate, Manticore. Each series born from the world of Citadel stars top local talent and is created, produced and filmed in region—bringing about stylistically unique shows with strong cultural identities rooted in their respective country of origin. The Italian Original, Citadel: Diana, is the second series to debut from the world of Citadel (launching October 10, 2024) and will be followed by India’s series, Citadel: Honey Bunny starring Varun Dhawan and Samantha on November 7, 2024. Season Two of Citadel, starring Richard Madden and Priyanka Chopra Jonas alongside Stanley Tucci and Lesley Manville, is in production, with Joe Russo serving as director. About Cattleya Under the guidance of Riccardo Tozzi, Giovanni Stabilini and Francesca Longardi, Cattleya has been one of Italy’s most important film and television producers for over 20 years. After producing, during its nascent years, feature films by Italy’s most acclaimed writers and directors, the company, then, focused its activities primarily on television drama. Ground-breaking series such as Romanzo Criminale and Gomorrah are considered among forerunners of a new narrative style and rigor and have earned cult status. Building partnerships with Italian and foreign producers and diversifying genres have become Cattleya’s hallmark over the last several years and have led to great international successes, such asZeroZeroZero, Suburra, Summertime, Romulus and Django placing the company among the highest echelon of European producers. Part of this strand is also Citadel: Diana, the Italian series in the Citadel world, the ground-breaking global series executive produced by the Russo Brothers. At a more local level, it is worth mentioning the success of two detective stories with female protagonists, both well received by the public and critics alike: Voiceless (Bella da morire) and Petra. Cattleya along with writers Leonardo Fasoli and Maddalena Ravagli have recently launched Moontrip, a new production company focused on developing genre films and series marked by an innovative approach. On the international front, Cattleya and its majority shareholder since 2017, ITV Studios, recently launched Madrid-based Cattleya Producciones, a scripted label that will specialize in the creation and production of TV drama and films for Spain and the international market. About AGBO Established in 2017 by acclaimed directors Anthony and Joe Russo, AGBO's mission is to propel the next era of storytelling by developing and producing universe-driven intellectual properties that span film, TV, and interactive. As a powerhouse independent studio founded and operated by a collective of artists with decades of experience, AGBO has consistently shattered audience records with its globally resonant content. In recent years, AGBO has achieved record-breaking success in both box office and streaming, setting new standards in global entertainment. The Russo Brothers and AGBO have had 11 number one global openings with over seven billion in box office including Marvel’s highest grossing film of all time; Avengers: Endgame. Everything Everywhere All at Once broke records for A24 by winning seven Academy Awards including Best Picture in 2023. The Russo Brothers-directed film The Gray Man sits in the top six of Netflix's "most viewed of all time" list, and the Chris Hemsworth-starrer Extraction has become Netflix’s most successful franchise to date. Additionally, following its April 2023 release, the first season of Citadel was Prime Video’s second most-watched new original series outside the U.S., and fourth most-watched worldwide at that time. AGBO has just completed principal photography on the Amazon MGM film The Bluff directed by Frank E. Flowers and has commenced production on Citadel Season 2 in London with Joe Russo directing. About Prime Video Prime Video is a one-stop entertainment destination offering customers a vast collection of premium programming in one application available across thousands of devices. On Prime Video, customers can find their favorite movies, series, documentaries, and live sports – including Amazon MGM Studios-produced series and movies Road House, The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, Fallout, Reacher, The Boys, and The Idea of You; licensed fan favorites American Fiction and The Boys in the Boat; Prime member exclusive access to coverage of live sports including Thursday Night Football, WNBA, and NWSL, and acclaimed sports documentaries including Bye Bye Barry and Federer; and programming from Prime Video add-on subscriptions such as Max, Crunchyroll and MGM+, as well as more than 500 free ad-supported (FAST) Channels. Prime members in the U.S. can share a variety of benefits, including Prime Video, by using Amazon Household. Prime Video is one benefit among many that provides savings, convenience, and entertainment as part of the Prime membership. All customers, regardless of whether they have a Prime membership or not, can rent or buy titles, including blockbusters such as Challengers and The Fall Guy, via the Prime Video Store, and can enjoy content such as Jury Duty and Bosch: Legacy free with ads on Freevee. Customers can also go behind the scenes of their favorite movies and series with exclusive X-Ray access. For more info visit www.amazon.com/primevideo.’ OFFICIAL PRIME VIDEO SOCIAL Instagram: @CitadelOnPrime Facebook: @CitadelOnPrime Hashtag: #CitadelOnPrime, #CitadelDiana Written by John Edward Betancourt One would think in 2024, there would be little left to explore in our world. For we have accurate maps of the globe, we have a grand understanding of eco systems and have catalogued countless species on our world. Not to mention… we have even come to learn our own impact upon the planet from a carbon footprint standpoint. So, what then, is there left to explore? Well, plenty. For there are still oceans to map, and more to observe and learn about in our natural world and that is why… we continue to enjoy amazing documentaries about it. Because they expose new facts and explore familiar places in incredible detail, and that is why Sir David Attenborough is once again, bringing a powerhouse documentary to the masses, via Asia. A seven-part series that will debut in 2025 that will absolutely explore every corner of the continent so we can learn more about our world and understand how precious it is and the gift we’ve been given to be part of it. And to properly celebrate this news, here are all the details on this upcoming series, courtesy of BBC America. ‘BBC AMERICA and BBC Factual announced that renowned naturalist and three-time Emmy® Award-winner Sir David Attenborough (Mammals, Planet Earth III) will present Asia, a seven-part natural history series about the wildlife on our planet’s largest continent. Covering the length and breadth of Asia, the series will reveal its most remarkable landscapes and animals, and stories featuring dramatic, previously unseen behavior. Asia will premiere on BBC AMERICA and AMC+ in 2025. Filmed over the course of nearly four years, this is the first time that Asia has been the focus of a landmark BBC wildlife series. From the vast Gobi Desert, to the jungles of Borneo, and from the polar wilderness of Siberia, to the coral seas of the Indian Ocean, this series will showcase the breathtaking variety of Asia’s wildest places. Seven, one-hour episodes will feature dramatic wildlife stories from each corner of the continent. In Nepal, we’ll follow rhinos taking part in a bizarre courtship ‘kiss-chase’ ritual. In the foothills of the Himalaya, we’ll meet the red panda, Asia’s shyest (and possibly cutest) mammal – amidst forests of bamboo. Five thousand meters up on the Tibetan Plateau, we’ll witness a lone wolf hunting a herd of antelope, relentlessly chasing them for hours on end. In Sri Lanka, we’ll join elephants that have learned to become highway thieves – holding up buses to get food from the passengers. And in the rich waters of the Western Pacific, we’ll swim with sea snakes and fish that have learned to team up, in order to hunt together in huge shoals. Filming locations include Lake Baikal, the vast taiga forest, the Lut Desert in Iran, and the Arabian Peninsula’s Empty Quarter. The series also features several Asian cities – Tokyo, Bangkok, Taipei, Bhopal, Hanoi and Singapore. Asia is the largest continent, and no other place is as rich in superlatives. It has the highest mountain range; the deepest ocean the tallest jungles; and the biggest cave. Asia’s wildlife is equally impressive. The continent is home to six species of bear, three species of rhino and five species of big cat – more than Africa. It is also the land of the unexpected – the mysterious sea bunny, bizarre mudskipper, elusive purple frog, and fluorescent deep-sea squid. This contemporary view of Asia will celebrate the diversity of life on the continent but will also feature the conservation challenges and potential solutions. On a continent that is home to well over half the world’s human population, there is a growing movement within Asia to protect its wild places and animals – these stories of conservation heroes will feature prominently in the series. Iconic landscapes and intimate behavior will be filmed using the very latest techniques, allowing audiences to experience the beauty and wonder of Asia like never before. Asia, a 7x60’ for BBC One and iPlayer, is made by BBC Studios Natural History Unit, co-produced with BBC AMERICA, France Télévisions and ZDF, in deals facilitated by BBC Studios, who hold global distribution rights. It was commissioned by Jack Bootle, Head of Commissioning, Specialist Factual. The Executive Producer is Roger Webb, the Series Producer is Matthew Wright and the Commissioning Editor is Sreya Biswas, Head of Commissioning, Natural History. About BBC AMERICA BBC AMERICA is a hub of innovative, culturally contagious programming including the Peabody Award-winning series Killing Eve starring Golden Globe® and SAG® Award-winner Sandra Oh and Emmy® Award-winner Jodie Comer. The network is the definitive television home and co-producer of the most iconic natural history series and franchises including Planet Earth, Blue Planet, Dynasties, Eden: Untamed Planet, Frozen Planet and Seven Worlds, One Planet. BBCA transforms every Saturday into Wonderstruck, a weekly destination for wildlife and wonder. A joint venture between AMC Networks and BBC Studios (the commercial arm of the BBC), BBCA’s influential shows such as Doctor Who, Orphan Black, Luther and The Graham Norton Show have attracted critical acclaim and earned Emmy® Awards, Golden Globes®, Peabody Awards, Critics’ Choice Awards, NAACP Image Awards, TCA Awards and more. BBC AMERICA is available across all platforms, including on-air, online, on demand and mobile. BBCA on social: YouTube – Twitter – Instagram – Facebook – Tumblr About AMC+ AMC+ is the company’s premium streaming bundle featuring an extensive lineup of popular and critically acclaimed original programming from AMC, BBC America, IFC, and SundanceTV and full access to targeted streaming services Shudder, Sundance Now and IFC Films Unlimited, which feature content such as A Discovery of Witches, Creepshow, and Boyhood. The service features a continually refreshed library of commercial-free content, with iconic series from the AMC Networks portfolio including Mad Men, Halt & Catch Fire, Hell on Wheels, Turn: Washington’s Spies, Rectify, Portlandia, Orphan Black and series from The Walking Dead Universe, among many others. The service also offers a growing slate of original and exclusive series including Gangs of London, Dark Winds, and the first two series in a new Anne Rice universe, Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire and Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches. With new movies released every Friday, AMC+ is the newest destination for exclusive film premieres direct from theaters all year long. AMC+ is available in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Spain and is available in the U.S. through AMCPlus.com, the AMC+ app, and a number of digital and cable partners.’ Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 305 of ‘Under the Vines’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
One the hardest struggles we will ever deal with when it comes to the quest to reset our lives and reinvent who we are… is that we won’t have a clue if we are making progress in our endeavors. Because there is no app, no gauge, nothing that pops up and tells us we’ve successfully reset our lives or that we have become the person we intended to be. Which is frustrating and can make this process quite cumbersome at times. Because we are beings that live on feedback and live on progress. But thankfully, not all is lost when it comes to reinvention. For there are ways for us to discover that we are making progress, as evidenced by the next episode of Under the Vines on Acorn TV. For ‘Life Is a Driveway’ saw Louis and Daisy struggling to know if they were moving forward, and their current situations in this tale only exacerbated such issues. For Louis was on the road and hanging with the boys for a Bachelor Party, and the lonesome vibe there, one that even Gus lamented, left Louis wondering if he was making progress. After all, he had failed in love in this part of the world, since he blew it with Daisy and of course… he thought lost his sharpness mentally through his desire for reinvention. Leaving him to feel he had taken a step back in life, really. As for Daisy, well she simply felt as though she had not left her past behind. In large part because a trip to get a dress with David’s daughter, Sienna, and a surrogate nephew… made her feel as though she was still fixated on the finer things in life. Because the sass she once embraced came back out, and she was looking at taking home a fifteen-thousand-dollar dress and spent an ungodly amount of money on lunch with that nephew. All of which showcased wonderfully how hard it is know if we’ve made progress in our endeavors and how old habits die hard. But thankfully, their lowest point allowed for them to find the gauge they so desperately sought. Because Daisy wasn’t good with being sassy and wasn’t good with spending that kind of money on a down-home wedding. Or even spending that much money on food. And well, coming to those epiphanies made it clear that she had changed. She had started to move in the right direction, and she found peace in that. Not to mention, Louis came to learn that he was indeed in a better place mentally by reinventing himself in this place. Courtesy of Don. Who lamented William and the IOU he wrote over the cruise and well… that helped Louis to understand that William was playing everyone and making moves to make a little empire with a new queen at his side. Which brought Don home to boot William out and helped Louis to call William out for lying. Because he knew that William signed Oakley back to Stanley and was doing his best to misdirect and Louis knew where the proof was and well… that helped him to understand that he was sharp again and able to do good with it, and that brought his journey into a comfortable place as well and set the stage for a lovely season three finale. Wherein Oakley will return to its rightful owner. But before we get to that, we can celebrate a lovely tale. One that informed us, that our actions, and key moments of inflection and objective observation, will show us that we are making progress in that grand endeavor to be more, to be better than we used to be, and that was lovely to experience here and just reminded us of how beautiful this show can be, courtesy of its unique life lessons. Until next time. Watch ‘Under the Vines’
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