Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Season One Finale of ‘Women in Blue (Las Azules)’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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One particular aspect of the amazing Apple TV+ series, Women in Blue (Las Azules), that we’ve praised often in our season one discussions of the show… is its innovation. Because it has over the course of nine episodes, defied convention and brought forth a vastly different kind of police serial. One full of surprises and one that has felt real at times because of the nature of the crimes and the thought processes of the criminal. Not to mention, this series of course… has made women the heroines of the story, focusing squarely upon Las Azules and their struggles and their battle to be respected, giving rise to incredible and refreshing storytelling, the kind that extended to the show’s season one finale.

For ‘Valentina’ was as unconventional as everything that came before it and it accomplished such a feat… by wasting little time in resolving what was going to happen to Valentina in a creative and inventive manner. After all, the Undresser was dead, shot by a member of the Herrera family and that left Laz Azules with no clues, no understanding of how to save Valentina and that was terrifying to say the least. Because there was a very real chance her death could happen in this story, because of its bold nature. But thankfully, Ángeles and her infinitely brilliant mind was able to ascertain a pattern and understand what the Undresser was trying to accomplish from a psychological standpoint. In that, he wanted to pay tribute to his father and his teachings, and that meant Valentina was to end where his journey began, at the water treatment plant.

Which brought Las Azules to the scene of an old crime to solve another and believe it or not, they were able to save Valentina from an awful fate and just like that… the case came to a close, with lots of time to spare, which was quite nontraditional in nature. Since usually the rescue is how you end a season, before wrapping up everything fast. But saving Valentina early allowed for this story to accomplish some incredible wonders. Such as first, showing the impact of a moment akin to this. Since Valentina had to face the reality that she was the victim of a crime and that she had to heal emotionally, and physically. Something we don’t see often in crime shows and that made for a powerful journey for certain and some fine acting from Natalia Téllez, and the unconventional nature of this story didn’t end there.

Because this also allowed for the story to bring its greatest theme home. In that, the women in Mexico City in this era, were indeed treated like second class citizens, and that didn’t change initially, despite this incredible opportunity for women. Mainly because, the First Lady saw Valentina’s capture as an embarrassment and was ready to shutter the program. But Valentina and her friends would not let that happen and found a way to sway the moment to their favor to keep their jobs and dreams alive. Knowing full well though, they would have to fight three times as hard to be recognized and respected as cops. For they were still a joke to so many and that was a powerful call back to bring forward here… one that was further enhanced by some other surprises.
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Such as the fact, that rather than honor Las Azules for their work, they instead honored Goyo Cadenas as he hero of the hour. Yes, that’s right, a murderer that was set free, was the champion of the case for his consulting work. All of which hammered home, the disrespect women receive and how hard they must work for a sliver of recognition… then… and now. But it wasn’t all bittersweet, for there were victories to be had. Since they did keep their jobs, and they did grow in life. After all, Ángeles found herself in a healthy relationship, Gabina and Valentina found focus and Mária enjoyed a promotion to Lieutenant and of course… received an apology from her husband. Who revealed, the promotion never arrived because of his own blowhard nature.

All of which brought forth a unique and realistic ending. One that also, set the stage for a potential second season. For a conversation between Goyo and Mária, hinted at the possibility that he might kill again, that it is calling to him. Which could mean a powerful cat and mouse game lie ahead between the two in a second season and we hope this show gets it. Because it was simply flawless in its first season. Courtesy of a compelling crime, timely commentary, amazing acting and writing… just… everything worked here, and truly it would be amazing to see more. But while we wait for such news, we can celebrate a flawless and engaging season finale. One that brought the journey full circle and brought safety to the city, courtesy of its real protectors, Laz Azules.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 404 of ‘Slow Horses’. To revisit the previous episode, clickhere.
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Normally in a spy story, the cat and mouse game, the give and take that we so enjoy, takes place between the villain and the spy. For they are always set up as the immovable object and the unstoppable force, destined to fight and endure their little dance, and we of course… love that. Because it is a new iteration of good versus evil and it always plays out in a clever manner, one full of twists and turns and this formula works so well it is rarely deviated from. Which is why this week’s episode of Slow Horses on Apple TV+ is of note. Simply because, ‘Returns’, once again, found new ways to bring forth a good old-fashioned cat and mouse game.

After all, it wasn’t just MI5 and Slough House versus Frank Harkness and his dastardly plans in this tale. It was MI5 versus Slough House, and even MI5 versus MI5. Simply because there are secrets that so many are trying to keep and that fight to keep them in the shadows and the fight to reveal them brought about an episode filled with a stunning cat and mouse game. One that saw Taverner and Claude duke it out at MI5 since he took the time to re-open the files and showcase that he had plans to still set things right. Which of course, meant that MI5 had to find David Cartwright post haste and that was no easy task either.

Because he was simply on the streets, moving about without any apparent purpose or direction. Which prompted a little gathering at Slough House to ponder upon what was happening and why, and Chapman finally filled in some blanks on the matter. By revealing that David sent him to that creepy cottage many years ago to basically, buy a woman. For all he did was transport cash and guns and IDs and everything mercenaries would need to France, and he brought home one of Harkness’ brides and she sadly… disappeared into the world and that was that regarding that matter. In large part because that offered minimal clues on what was going on in London, but also because… that conversation flagged David’s position.

Simply because the conversation turned to the fact that something David declared he wanted to accomplish before he disappeared, was to talk to First Desk, and that of course was interpreted as language that indicated he was heading to The Park. But with a wonky memory in hand, that likely meant instead he was heading to the old MI5 HQ. An epiphany that pushed Slough House to head that way post haste, and indeed, compete with MI5 in the process. For they too put this together, giving rise to a tense race against time that ended in a bittersweet manner. Because while Slough House got to David first, they likely lost a good ally in Sam. Mainly because a resurgent and frightened Harkness, whom we learned is getting paid handsomely by a prince from a faraway land to cause trouble, saw to it that his super strength lackey, met up with Sam to get some answers as to the whereabouts of David.
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Yet while all of that could have carried this episode and truly did showcase a different kind of cat and mouse game, the show wasn’t done with such matters just yet. After all, River was heading back to London and MI5 and Flyte were quite interested in meeting up with him. Something he denied them for a better part of this episode. Since he was able to evade them at the train station, and he managed to mostly evade them back at the Cartwright estate. Where he returned to, to get some answers. Because something about this mission bothered him deeply, and certain aspects of it were familiar and in digging through memories, it was heavily implied that the woman that came back to London with Chapman… may know River in a more intimate manner than expected. In fact, it was implied she might be his mother.

But of course, any further information on that will have to wait, mainly because… Flyte managed to find a way to meet River face to face in that very house. Giving rise to trouble for him and that left us… with another stellar episode. One that truly was filled to the brim with amazing tension and amazing moments and above all… a stunningly different cat and mouse game. One mostly played by the good people of MI5 at every level, and you really don’t see that in spy stories all that often and that made, for one enjoyable ride. One that of course, has us ready for next week’s episode since it would seem we are so, so close to finally having the answers we seek, and it will indeed be interesting to learn about all of the secrets MI5 is hiding as we inch toward the end of season four of this brilliant series. Until next time.

We are taught from a very early age, that when we discover our calling, our dream, that we need to chase it with every fiber of our being. Because we’ve discovered what so few do in life and we should stop at nothing to obtain it, and that is indeed a lesson that each and every one of us follow to a tee. Because it drives us toward something special, something big, and it gives us hope like never before and our push to have it, can in fact, inspire others in life. So, we truly see the pursuit of the dream as nothing short of a noble quest. One that truly is magical, powerful and worthwhile since you are chasing after what you love and what sets your soul aflame.
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But alas, it doesn’t take long for us to come to understand… that this push comes with a lot of drawbacks and some complications. Because in order to really chase one’s dream, it requires stunning sacrifice. The kind where so much must be put to the wayside in order to make progress. Not to mention, our laser focused quest to be the best and have everything we want, can cause great harm. Because there is a structure to our dreams in our mind, one that must conform at all costs, and we will push and reach to make sure that happens when others are involved. Yet, we don’t talk about this truth all that often, and we should… so that perhaps a more measured and healthy push toward our dream can take place and that is why, the next episode of Heels is of note.

Simply because ‘Dusty Finish’ digs deep into the harm that a hard pursuit for our dreams can cause, and it accomplished that feat by showing us a different side of Jack Spade. Specifically, the man he was outside of the ring, away from the dream. Where part time job responsibilities were in his daily agenda and where he was holding out so much hope that the dream as he saw it would continue, that he lost sight of simple things. Such as maintaining the house and being the point man for pest control when squirrels got in, and he even pushed time with the family to the wayside, to work on a script that wouldn’t come to life. All of which showcased some of that harm that dreams can cause since his family was emotionally wounded over this, and that was powerful and poignant and further enhanced by the centerpiece portion of this examination.

Because as Jack was working to lose himself in the pursuit of the dream, his brother was also suffering. Because Ace was lost, and constantly calling Wild Bill to see what lie ahead. Because his confidence was badly bruised by Jack’s decision to do things his way, and well… things went from bad to worse when Wild Bill called him and told him… there would be no ascension to the big leagues. Because that broke Ace mentally in that moment, and prompted him to get drunk, get stupid and get into fights, and it was rightfully up to Jack to save him, with an assist from Crystal, no less. But it was critical that Jack be the one to help Ace, to hear from his brother’s lips how much the push to have the dream his way… hurt Ace so deeply.
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For that is exactly what Jack did. He imparted his dream, and his vision upon his brother, and in doing so… betrayed him, hurt him, left him feeling a fool and feeling lost in life. Not to mention, he often left his wife sitting at home, wondering what could be if there was a measure of care for her and her needs over musings regarding selling the Duffy Dome to Charlie Gully or fretting over a script. All of which taught us, that yes, our dreams can hurt people and lead them astray in the name of our vision. Not to mention, it can force us to lose sight of responsibilities we have to make a priority as well and that made for one powerful episode. One that was brave enough to show the dark side of dreaming and how hard it can be to find what needs to be found to prevent this… balance.

Because without that, dreams can become an obsession and the devastating harm that can come from chasing them too hard, might be why some people leave them behind. To try and salvage what they are beginning to lose in life. All of which made, for a stunning rewatch of this episode. Because round two offered up new depth to the story and really spoke to how hard this series goes when it comes to exploring every aspect of our dreams and every aspect of the human condition. Because this episode covered so much, and truly gave us shocking perspective on the pursuit of our dreams, and that definitely motivates one to continue this second journey through the ring. So that we can enjoy more powerful lessons from this revolutionary and thoughtful show that is about so much more than wrestling. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Eight of ‘The Anonymous’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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There comes a point when we are playing a long game, be it board game or something more complex, where we make quite the decision. In that, we see the home stretch ahead of us, we have an idea of how we might win and that prompts us… to just go for broke and try to win the whole thing in a hurry. Because once you’re comfortable and truly feel as though you have a handle on everything… why not just go for it and swing for the fences? If anything, this particular moment is top of mind today… simply because so many had that epiphany and made that call during last night’s episode of The Anonymous on USA Network.

But before we get to how that happened, and what that may mean for the competition going forward, we do need to take a moment and talk about that Marcel cliffhanger. For ‘Divide & Conquer’ informed us in its opening moments… that Marcel is someone who might want to play the lottery regardless of whether or not he wins this competition. Because he landed ANOTHER Safe Box in the Face-Off, and despite Nina’s best efforts to remove him from the game, she could not. Because he had that immunity and that led to a little bit of shock in the house, the kind that seemed to settle down as the game moved onto a very healthy team competition. Wherein Nina led the group to win a fair chunk of change to be entered into the pot.

However, while it was nice to see Marcel survive to battle another day, and enjoy a great challenge, make no mistake about it… that go for broke mentality was brewing. Because it seemed as though, the exit of Xavier, a competitor that everyone both feared and admired, inspired so many to go for it. As though it was now anyone’s game for the taking and that led, to some surprisingly spicy moments in this show. Wherein everyone began to fire off an agenda and attempted to curry favor to that agenda. For instance, Jack was all about getting Victoria out of the game as quickly as possible, loudly declaring why and how it would benefit him, and there were others eager to move Bismah out of the game. 

Which brought about, the spiciest chat we’ve seen to date on the show. Because everyone understood now that they could use the shield of the chat to just let loose and really poke people and shift about attitudes and conversations and that truly led to some bold moments, some fiery words and ideas and outright chaos at times. All because everyone wanted to fill that void that Xavier left and take control of the game. To the point where some of the folks that we’ve yet to see really flex up on the group, did so here, such as Andy. Who fired off some incredible shots and even put himself up for elimination to try and win The Anonymous and shift the balance of power and well, that fire and that desire to take control, brought forth seven people for elimination. Three of whom, Bismah, Jack, and Lilly, were at real risk, as a result of the free for all present here.

But while we wait to see if the push to get Bismah out pays off, as team voting has in the past, or if Jack’s attempt to seize control will cost him the whole thing, or if Lilly has finally run out of goodwill at a time when everyone is trying to kick their own agenda into overdrive… we can celebrate one epic episode. Because wow, this one truly put us on the edge of our seats and informed us of how everyone is ready to step up and claim their prize, and truly… nothing will be the same going forward. Because now, it is clear that everyone understands this is a game, and that they have to play it as such and be as cunning as can be, and well… it should be interesting to see what the landscape of this game looks like going forward. Now that everyone is ready and willing to do what must be done to win this game. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Series Premiere of ‘Brilliant Minds’.
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We live an interesting time, when it comes to society’s worldview on how we heal. Simply because, in this moment, healing is seen as a very personal journey, and understandably so. After all, we’ve come to understand that a great deal of self-work and self-care goes into healing, and that does require us to dig deep and dedicate ourselves to healing our body and our mind, because we are the only one who can get it done. Yet, while it is good that we are starting to understand the work that goes into getting better, it has brought forth a unique side effect. In that, it has isolated so many as they heal and left them wondering if they can make it forward.
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Because those not working to get better, just leave people be on their journey and that… isn’t healthy.
Simply because… there’s a lot to be said about having a support network while we heal. After all, it really does lift our spirits when someone listens to us as we work through our mental health issues. Not to mention, just having someone tell us, ‘You can do it,’ when we’re healing the body goes a long way as well. But we have indeed lost that as time has gone on, and that makes healing a little tough. Thankfully though, the world seems to be recognizing this mistake and that is why we are seeing people try to support one another more, and that is why it should come as no surprise that there is a brand-new television series on the airwaves that speaks to the importance of having a community around us while we work to heal, in any capacity.

A feat that Brilliant Minds on NBC accomplishes, by introducing us to Dr. Oliver Wolf. A brilliant mind that finds himself going through a tough time in ‘Pilot’. For he is a firm believer in catering to the core needs of a patient to help them properly heal, by any means necessary. A belief that gets him fired and leaves him listless. That is until an old friend named Dr. Carol Pierce asks him to join her at her woefully understaffed hospital. To inspire hope in her ailing patients, and well, one particular case inspires him to return to service. Wherein a mother who underwent major surgery to fix her epilepsy related seizures, no longer recognizes her sons. In fact, she sees them as imposters, yet at the same time… knows she loves them through and through. Prompting Dr. Wolf to dig into her life and dig into her illness to find a way to help her brain re-learn how to love the sons she does adore.

Which of course, injects the medical stuff we enjoy from these types of dramas, and brings about a happy ending since Dr. Wolf comes to understand how use sound to help her heal and love her family again. But what matters more here, is what happens in between the technical moments. Because that is where we see… community and support take place and learn how that inspires us to heal and inspires us to move forward during a difficult time. Because that mother is terrified, and isolated and alone, and she truly feels as though no one hears her, believes her or cares. But Wolf shows her otherwise. He takes her case seriously, he finds the cause and reminds her every day that she is in his care that he will find a way forward, and her life will improve, that does give her peace and that does give her joy, and it reminds us deeply of what support can do.

Which makes for a beautiful and inspiring series premiere. One that informs us that this medical series will be less about the norms and old tropes, and more about what it means to lift each other up in times of trouble, and… how that helps heroes along. For Dr. Wolf also suffers from face blindness and has his own demons to quell beyond that. But helping others gives him his own strength and helps him overcome his own doubts and that really does make for a lovely story. One that you walk away from with good vibes in your soul. Simply because this medical drama serves as the anthesis to the zeitgeist of healing. By reminding us that we are all in this together and that a little kindness, and a little care toward others, can truly accomplish wonders, and it will be fascinating to see what other beautiful moments await us as season one of this show continues along. Until next time.

It’s been a little while since we’ve talked about the upcoming new chapter in the Spartacus franchise on STARZ, Spartacus: House of Ashur, and understandably so. After all, everyone is hard at work at production and assembling what will be another grand story in this franchise, and that is a good reason for no news. But that is why today’s announcement from STARZ came as quite the delightful surprise. Because just like that, the incredible cast of this series is rounding out.

For earlier STARZ let it be known who else will be standing alongside our main character and wow, did a bevy of quality names come forth. Informing us we will be treated to some amazing acting when this show drops. Of course, since you’re dying to know who is going to be part of this story,  without further ado, here are the names and biographies of the talented actors that will immerse us in the wonder of the world of Spartacus, once again.
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'STARZ has announced additional casting for its epic new series “Spartacus: House of Ashur.” Entering the arena are Dan Hamill (“Love Child,” “House Husbands”) as “Celadus,” Andrew McFarlane (“The Newsreader,” “The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart”) as “Gabinius,” Jackson Gallagher (“Glitch,” “Playing for Keeps”) as “Caesar,” Jaime Slater (Pacific Rim Uprising, Daredevil) as “Cornelia,” Simon Arblaster (“Shortland Street,” A Love Yard), as “Proculus,” Arlo Gibson (“The Sounds,” Nude Tuesday) as “Opiter,” Cameron Rhodes (Housebound, Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring) as “Uvidus,” Evander Brown (“The Dead Lands,” We Are Still Here) as “Ephesius,” Graham Vincent (Don’t Make Me Go, “My Life is Murder”) as “Hedylus,” Louis Hunter (“Troy: Fall of a City,” “The Fosters”) as “Erato,” Donald Ross (“My Life is Murder”) as “Salvius and Duane Wichman Evans (“Shortland Street,” Avatar) as “Dacus.” All join in guest star roles. Production on the 10-episode season is underway in New Zealand.
 
They join previously announced cast members Nick Tarabay (“Asher”), Lucy Lawless (“Lucretia”), Graham McTavish (“Korris”), Tenika Davis (“Achillia”), Jamaica Vaughan (“Hilara”), Ivana Baquero (“Messia”), Jordi Webber (“Tarchon”), Claudia Black (“Cossutia”), India Shaw-Smith (“Viridia”) and Leigh Gill (“Satyrus”).
 
“Spartacus: House of Ashur” will be a history-bending, erotic, thrilling, roller-coaster experience that builds on everything that made the original series a colossal hit. The series poses the question: what if Ashur, played by fan favorite Nick Tarabay, hadn’t died on Mount Vesuvius at the end of “Spartacus: Vengeance?” And what if he had been gifted the gladiator school once owned by Batiatus in return for aiding the Romans in killing Spartacus and putting an end to the slave rebellion?
 
“Spartacus: Blood and Sand” debuted on STARZ in 2010 and was followed by a prequel series chapter “Spartacus: Gods of the Arena” in 2011 and two additional series “Spartacus: Vengeance” in 2012 and “Spartacus: War of the Damned” in 2013. “Spartacus” creator, writer and executive producer Steven S. DeKnight (“Daredevil”) serves as showrunner and executive producer. “Spartacus: House of Ashur” is produced by Lionsgate Television for STARZ.'

Simon Arblaster
“Proculus” (PROCK ew lus)
 
A grounded, measured actor with an affable screen presence, Simon Arblaster recently spent a brief stint in Canada where he was in hot demand, appearing in a string of television series and films, among them “Invasion,” “Tracker Reginald the Vampire,” “Ms Match,” and “So Help Me Todd” with Oscar-winning actress Marcia Gay Harden.
 
In 2021 he starred as the lead in Hallmark’s romantic comedy, A Love Yarn, and earlier in beloved New Zealand series “Westside,” “Head High,” and “Shortland Street,” as well as US shows “Once Upon a Time,” “Cowboy Bebop” and “Almost Paradise.”
 
Arblaster is represented in the North American market by Lucas Talent.

Louis Hunter
“Erato” (er AH toe)
 
Louis Hunter’s international acting career spans both stage and screen. He is best known for his leading role as “Paris” in the miniseries, “Troy: Fall of a City” and the lead role of “Lachlan O’Leary” in “On The Ropes,” directed by Shannon Murphy.
 
Hunter made his professional stage debut with Sydney Theatre Company in the role of “Prince Edward” in “War of the Roses,” opposite Cate Blanchett. He followed this in the role of “Mercutio” in “Romeo & Juliet” for the International Shakespeare Youth Festival.
 
Hunter made his US screen debut as “Nick Armstrong,” a lead role in “Secret Circle,” executive produced by Kevin Williamson. Hunter went on to guest star in “Red Band Society,” opposite Octavia Spencer, before joining “The Fosters” in the recurring role of “Nick Stratos,” executive produced by Jennifer Lopez. Hunter’s Australian television roles include: the role of “Kyle Mulroney,” a series lead in the drama series “Out of the Blue,” as well as the lead voice of the character “Sevenpoints” in the animated TV series “The Woodlies.”
 
Hunter’s feature film credits include: the lead role of “J.D.” in The Honor Farm, directed by Karen Skloss, the role of “Duncan” in Jack Goes Home, opposite Rory Culkin, directed by Thomas Dekker and in the role of “Ryan” in Killing Animals, executive produced by James Franco.

One thing that we can all agree upon, is that Apple TV+ is home to just, amazing entertainment. For they continue to bring forth just amazing shows and movies, the kind that are powerful, moving, and outright thought-provoking. Yet one particular corner of their library that we don’t discuss enough, collectively, is their family entertainment lineup. Because the same care that has gone into their standard shows has gone into curating a quality lineup of family shows that engage and offer amazing lessons and start discussions on the topics they present so all can learn and grow together.
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If anything, the wonder of Apple’s family entertainment is top of mind today, simply because today is National Family Day, and since we here at NTG are big fans of what Apple TV+ has to offer from the world of family programming, we thought it best to offer up some highlighted programming for you to watch with your family on this magical day, and preview some shows to come. So, without further ado, here are those recommendations to make your National Family Day as special as can be.

‘On September 23, tune in to Apple TV+ for National Family Day and discover the robust line up of kids and family series including “Yo Gabba GabbaLand!,” “Frog and Toad,” “Camp Snoopy,” “WondLa,” “Me” and many more. Families can also watch the first season of the thrilling and spooky adventure series “CURSES!” ahead of the upcoming second season premiere on Friday, October 4. 

“Yo Gabba GabbaLand!” invites you to explore a magical world of endless possibilities and promise and brings to life an expansive universe where kids and families can learn, laugh, and grow together through engaging songs and dance, offering endless possibilities and promise. Viewers can also expect vibrant musical performances and original music from Grammy Award-winning artists including Anderson .Paak, Portugal. The Man and Thundercat, along with Betty Who, The Linda Lindas, Miyavi, Cory Wong & Antwaun Stanley, Kurt Vile, The Drums and The Interrupters. These critically acclaimed artists will perform earworms that tie back to the themes of each episode, including creativity, growth, friendship and more. Filled with optimism and fun, kids and families are taught life lessons through song and dance that allow them to learn, laugh and grow together. The first season is now streaming on Apple TV+. 

Frog is a frog. Toad is a toad. They have a lot in common … but they are also very different. Frog and Toad are best friends who know that the true secret to friendship is not only enjoying the things you have in common, but embracing the things that make you different. Since our differences are what makes us special, Frog and Toad celebrate what makes them unique! Both seasons of the critically acclaimed series, “Frog and Toad,” based on the beloved books, are now streaming on Apple TV+. 

In “Camp Snoopy,” after discovering their troop is in danger of disbanding, Snoopy and the Beagle Scouts set off to immerse themselves in nature and the Great Outdoors to earn their badges, with the Beagle Scout Manual as their guide. Meanwhile, Charlie Brown and friends enjoy their summer at Camp Spring Lake, crossing paths with Snoopy as they experience hiking, swimming, sitting around campfires and everything summer camp and the outdoors have to offer.  The first season is now streaming on Apple TV+, and a second season was recently announced.   Apple TV+ is the destination for Peanuts including beloved classics and all-new original series.

“WondLa” introduces Eva, a typical teen: curious, enthusiastic, spirited. The only difference … she’s being raised alone by a robot caretaker, Muthr, in a state-of-the-art underground bunker. On her 16th birthday, an attack on her sanctuary forces her onto the Earth’s surface, and it’s not what she expected. The planet is inhabited by aliens, covered with otherworldly fauna, and there are no other humans to be found. In fact, it’s no longer called Earth — it’s called Orbona. Otto, a lovable giant waterbear with whom Eva shares telepathic powers, Rovender, a cantankerous alien with a troubled past, and Muthr join Eva as she embarks on a quest to find humans, her home and her true destiny.  The first season is now streaming on Apple TV+.

"CURSES!" follows Pandora, Russ and Sky Vanderhouven, a family cursed by their ancestors’ pillaging of ancient artifacts from across the globe in which the father, Alex, was turned to stone. After reversing the curse on an adventure of a lifetime, the second season picks up with Alex rejoining the family as they continue working to undo the damage done by their greedy ancestors. But when something about Alex doesn't seem quite right, the family must band together to solve the mysteries that confront them, both on the road and within the walls of Briarstone Manor.  Season one is now streaming on Apple TV+ in advance of the second season premiere on October 4.

The 10 episode, live-action series “Me” follows a 12-year-old kid named Ben who is in the throes of middle school (complete with bullies, crushes and school dances!) as he adjusts to a newly blended family AND the realization that he has super powers. Throughout the 10-episode season, Ben goes on a journey of self-discovery and learns what having super powers truly means. He finds an ally in his stepsister, Max, who helps him harness these powers and uncover the secrets behind the mysteries and tragedies of his community … all while he tries to come to terms with what it means to be Ben. “Me” is now streaming on Apple TV+. 

Award-winning all-ages offerings now streaming globally on Apple TV+ also include celebrated live action animated hybrid special, “The Velveteen Rabbit”; the Academy Award and BAFTA Award-winning animated short film “The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse”; Oscar-nominated and BAFTA Award-winning animated film “Wolfwalkers”; Skydance animated feature “Luck”; the BAFTA Award and Humanitas Prize-winning “El Deafo,” BAFTA Award-winning “Lovely Little Farm,” “Duck & Goose,” “Get Rolling With Otis,” Spin Master Entertainment’s “Sago Mini Friends,” GLAAD Media Award-nominated “Pinecone & Pony,” “Frog and Toad,” The Jim Henson Company’s Emmy Award-winning “Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock,” “Harriet the Spy” and “Slumberkins,” Sesame Workshop’s “Helpsters,” Joseph Gordon-Levitt, HITRECORD and Bento Box Entertainment’s “Wolfboy and the Everything Factory,” Jack McBrayer and Angela C. Santomero’s Emmy Award-nominated “Hello, Jack! The Kindness Show,” Peanuts and WildBrain’s Emmy Award-nominated “Snoopy in Space,” “The Snoopy Show,” “Camp Snoopy,” Scholastic’s “Eva the Owlet” and Peabody and Emmy Award-winning series “Stillwater.” Live-action offerings include Bonnie Hunt’s DGA and WGA Award-nominated “Amber Brown,” DGA Award-winning “Best Foot Forward,” “Surfside Girls,” WGA Award-winning “Life By Ella,” Sesame Workshop and Sinking Ship’s Emmy Award-winning “Ghostwriter,” Emmy Award and Environmental Media Association Award winning “Jane,” and Scholastic’s “Puppy Place.”

Also featured are “Here We Are: Notes for Living on Planet Earth,” the Emmy Award-winning television event based on the New York Times bestselling book and TIME Best Book of the Year by Oliver Jeffers, and specials from Peanuts and WildBrain including Emmy Award-nominated “Snoopy Presents: It’s the Small Things, Charlie Brown,” “Snoopy Presents: Lucy’s School,” Humanitas and Emmy Award-nominated “Snoopy Presents: To Mom (and Dad), With Love,” “Snoopy Presents: One-of-a-Kind Marcie,” “Snoopy Presents: Welcome Home, Franklin,” Emmy Award-winning “Snoopy Presents: Who Are You, Charlie Brown?” and “Snoopy Presents: For Auld Lang Syne.”

For more information, visit apple.com/tvpr and see the full list of supported devices.’

One particular storytelling element that we both enjoy yet lament, is true love that comes together under wild circumstance and sometimes impossible odds. Which is often sweet yet cheesy. Because while it is lovely to say, see someone grant the greatest wish for the person they love, or see them just blast Peter Gabriel with a boom box, none of that feels real and it can be a little too over the top. But like it or not, those seemingly ‘cheesy’ moments do happen in real life and often, and they do indeed bring about love be it fleeting or endless and that’s why they keep showing up in storytelling, and why we saw it make another appearance in the next episode of Acapulco on Apple TV+.
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For ‘The Most Wonderful Time of the Year’ finally focused on whether or not there was something special between Julia and Máximo, and if so, whether or not they would finally come together under magical circumstances and well… they did… after a touch of chaos came into play. For in this particular tale, the holiday season was upon Las Colinas and that meant the big holiday dinner was looming on the horizon. Wherein everyone could eat hearty and let loose and bring a date and well, joy was in the air at the resort, as was… fake love. Because there was trouble at home since Nora caught Gabriela (or rather, Roberta, as we came to learn in present day) escaping and that prompted Máximo to step in and say they were dating. Which made Sara both happy and sad since it meant more struggles in growing with Roberta, so Máximo came up a with a lovely idea to give them a little romance time.

In that, Memo could ask Sara to be his date to the dinner, and Máximo would ask Roberta, since he claimed she was his lady… and all would be well. For Sara and Roberta could ditch them at the party and do their own thing, and everyone would have a great night. In fact, this plan was so solid, even the only possible roadblock regarding it, since Memo revealed his crush on Lupe’s niece, who came on as seasonal help… didn’t seem to be a roadblock at all. Because she was coming late to the party. But alas, Nora showed up at the party, and that complicated things deeply… as did Julia. Because in the midst of making these holiday dating plans, she began to have some questions about the dress that she received on her birthday. Because her meeting went Diane went well, and when she asked the boss about how Chad put her dress together, Diane made it clear he likely did not. Because he had none of those connections.

Which forced her to dig deep on who made it, and in doing so, she came to learn, that it was Máximo that did this for her and at first, she was unsure of how to square that. After all, Chad was her boyfriend, plain and simple, and there were no guarantees that Máximo wanted more, even though… she wanted there to be more. Because her heart called to the one that went the extra mile for her, and well… for a time it seemed that such romance would go nowhere. For Nora kept elevating Máximo’s new ‘relationship’ while Julia was near, and that prompted Julia to go think about her situation and her future. But a moment of levity, courtesy of Lupe’s golden voice, after Chad and Diane fought and stormed off at the party… led Máximo to Julia. Which brought about honesty and wonder, and that perfect ‘movie’ ending where they shared a kiss and declared love under the wildest and more outlandish circumstances possible.

All of which brought forth a lovely episode, one that reminds us that truly, there are people that we are drawn to and crave, and we connect in ways that are unconventional and worthy of a story, and that made for a delightful episode, and sadly, its majesty and joy simply cannot last. After all, Sara’s fix is only temporary, and it is only a matter of time before Nora figures out this forbidden love and of course… there’s some ugliness brewing at the top at Las Colinas. Since Chad and Diane did indeed have it out, and Chad was not the same after that, and will seek comfort in Julia’s arms But, the ups and downs of life are a big part of this show, and that does leave us eager to see what ups and downs lie ahead as we settle in for the season one finale of this brilliant series. Until next time.

When we think of medical dramas, certain images come right into our minds. Such as a busting emergency room where a group of dynamic doctors’ work to fix the sick and fix their own lives outside of business ours. And of course, we think of quirky patients and quirky staff members that spice things up for everyone… because that is what medical dramas focus upon. The hard work, the life and death that everyone faces when they step into the ER, and its subsequent surprises, and well… it’s a setting that works well and has provided us with incredible entertainment and moving moments through and through.
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But, alas, it truly does not showcase the entire medical field, and the isolated nature of that setting can limit a writer. But slowly and surely, that is beginning to change in this era of peak television and more and more, we starting to see stories that branch out beyond the ER, to show us what other individuals in the medical field do to save lives, and what they deal with, and it just so happens, that Apple TV+ is about to be host to a refreshing new medical drama that does indeed explore other corners of the field. For Wednesday will see the debut of Midnight Family, a medical drama that focuses on paramedics in the field, with quite the unsettling twist.

For in this tale we meet the Tamayo family, a group of paramedics that work hard at night in the heart of Mexico City. And their work allows for us to learn a great deal about the Mexican Medical System. Such as the fact that there are not enough government sanctioned paramedics and ambulances out in the city, so it falls to people like the Tamayos to get out there and save lives and try to make a living in the process. For it is up to them to collect payment, and at times that is no easy task, especially if they are a second late to a scene and another mercenary ambulance beats them there. But it is a way to make a living, and a way to put Marigaby Tamayo through medical school. For she has a brilliant mind, and she wants to make a difference. Provided of course her family and their personal struggles can be set aside long enough for her to finish school.

Which truly does give rise to a refreshing new show, for several reasons. First is the obvious, the fact that we are rolling with a paramedic crew and seeing first-hand the struggles they face on the streets and the dark moments they also endure. Since not every call brings about good news or a perfect scenario, and that’s tough for them to swallow and reconcile. Plus, we get to learn about a broken healthcare system and see how the flaws in the system impact more than the patients, since it clearly creates extended chaos. But above all, we get to spend time with amazing people. For the Tamayo family is filled with dynamic individuals that have their own needs and wants, and they are well written and wonderfully fleshed out, and we come to quickly care about them in a manner that we don’t often experience with medical dramas.

But that just speaks to how special and moving this series is. For it really is unlike any other medical drama out there, and it also feels shockingly real at times. In part because there are moments when the show switches visuals styles to a documentary style, in part to pay respect to the documentary that this show is based upon of the same name. Which only adds to the stunning realism present here, and the amazing cast also reinforces the realistic feel of a show that is powerful, deeply engaging, deeply moving and the good news is, we are but days away from enjoying it. For Midnight Family arrives on Apple TV+ this Wednesday with a two-episode premiere, and we cannot wait for you to see it, nor can we wait to share our interviews with Showrunner Natalia Beristáin, and cast members, Renata Vaca (Marigaby Tamayo), Diego Calva (Marcus Tamayo), and Joaquín Cosío (Ramón Tamayo) as we count down the minutes to this refreshing new show.

One thing that we can all agree upon, is that a fair chunk of new medical television shows… are supremely gritty and bleak in nature and well, it does make sense as to why. After all, life and death are the standard for medical work, so to offer a compelling story, it is best to plunge us within the realities of that world and showcase the struggles of those who step into a hospital each and every day. Not to mention, such a world is a great way to showcase how such work can impact the health and the psyche of the individuals that choose to heal others. But while that does give rise to compelling and jaw-dropping tales, at times… some of them are lacking in some elements that we crave in storytelling.
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For instance, they sometimes focus a little too hard on the grit, and they go hard with the darkness. Giving rise to stories that can prompt a need for a hug or a pleasant conversation with a friend to step away from the darkness we’ve been privy to. Not to mention, they sometimes feature characters that feel… too far gone. As though their faith in everything has faded because of the situations they’ve seen play out in the hospital. Leaving all of us to wonder if by chance medical shows can offer something different, and slowly but surely… television is answering yes that question. In fact, NBC is leading the charge in such matters. Since their medical dramas feature humanity and more than the norms, and they even have a medical comedy coming up. But tonight, a supremely special medical drama arrives on the network, one so different that Brilliant Minds is nothing short of a must-see.
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For this is a series that truly features a different kind of doctor, one named Oliver Wolf, who at first glance… appears to be more of what we know. A grizzled doctor that has seen it all and harbors a little bit of a sour soul because of it. But that is merely to make this show feel familiar if for a moment. Since this series is about so much more. For it is at its core, a genuinely positive story, courtesy of Dr. Wolf. For he isn’t grizzled, he merely suffers from a unique neurological affliction called Face Blindness, where he cannot remember what people look like, and that frustrates him and motivates him to be curt. But it also, makes him something of a guardian angel. Because not remembering the looks of the patients, forces him to focus on who they are, and what they are feeling from their affliction. Which in turn, motivates him to do whatever he can to genuinely help them heal, especially when their afflictions are not mainstream and ignored by most doctors.

Which brings forth a story that quite frankly, is about as refreshing and original as it gets. Because Wolf’s affliction forces him to listen. To really listen and learn all the details about the pain his patients are going through,  and that is something we don’t see in medical dramas all that often, and it is just delightful. Since it adds real depth and real humanity to the story, as does Wolf’s incredible desire to heal them. Which also brings forth a real sense of community in this story and lays out a beautiful message. In that, healing is more than just a diagnosis and a script, it’s about actual care from a physician and a sense that we are being heard and taken seriously, since we do know our bodies and what ails them. Alongside a fine reminder that sometimes, it takes a village to bring people up when they suffer, and that kindness and support go a long way. 

All of which gives rise to a beautiful and inspiring medical drama. One that is utterly brilliant, and so beautiful in nature that it outright heals your own soul as you watch. For it is not cynical in the slightest. It is hopeful and wondrous and that comes courtesy of incredible writing, courtesy of Showrunner Michael Grassi, and magnificent acting, led by Zachary Quinto. Who adds stunning depth and wonder to Dr. Wolf, a character that is in fact, based on real life doctor and writer, Oliver Sacks. Which also adds majesty to a series that truly serves as the anthesis for the modern medical drama, or even perhaps serves as the cure. For this revolutionary series blends together the realities of illness with the hope we want to find in the midst of our healing journey and the best news of all is that we are but hours away from enjoying this magnificent new series since Brilliant Minds debuts on NBC, later tonight.

Nerds That Geek was also able to attend the NBC Segment of the Television Critics Association 2024 Summer Press Tour, where ‘Brilliant Minds’ was showcased and where Showrunner Michael Grassi, and stars Zachary Quinto (Dr. Oliver Wolf) and Tamberla Perry (Dr. Carol Pierce) offered the following thoughts on the show’s hopefulness, inspirational nature, and the tapped into the life of Dr. Oliver Wolf Sacks to bring Dr. Oliver Wolf to life.

Zachary Quinto: “… I’m grateful to be on a show, frankly, at this time in the world and in this day and age, to be on a show that has a message of hope, actually a message of how we’re similar more than how we’re different, actually what brings us together instead of what pulls us apart. That to me feels really vital right now, and that’s a particular gift for me to be a part of these kinds of stories. I’ve been a part of a lot of darker stories, and I feel really grateful at this point in my life, in my career and in the world, that I can be a part of putting stories in the world that hopefully will inspire people and will make people feel like no matter what adversity might be confronting them, that there’s a way through it, and there’s a way to a brighter time and a brighter life, and that’s something that I feel really happy to be a part of right now.”

Tamberla Perry: “…as I’ve gone through this journey of developing this character, I’ve realized that we are not as alike as I thought we were in terms of the way we think. Matters of the heart, matters of the mind, I am a very logical person. Carol is the Chief of Psychiatry. She handles things a lot with her heart, and that’s often the way she treats her patients. She is unwavering. She is fiercely loyal. And I’m going to be very transparent, I have never done actual therapy in my life. And in watching this though, because mental health is such -- it's at the forefront of most conversations right now, it’s really making me take a step back and deciding that that might be my first step as soon as we wrap.”

Michael Grassi: “So, Zachary plays Dr. Oliver Wolf and also, the last name Wolf is Oliver Sacks’ middle name, his unofficial name. When he was with his patients and with his fellow doctors, they always referred to him as Oliver or Dr. Sacks. And then Oliver also rode motorcycles, and all of his motorcycle friends called him Wolf and that was his name. So, it’s sort of inspired by real life. And then in terms of the source material that we used to create the show, when I first was presented with the project, I was sent two books: ‘The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat’ and ‘An Anthropologist on Mars,’ which are two iconic Oliver Sacks books. And there are so many incredible cases that we take from these books and then we set in present day and have conversations that feel sort of urgent and pressing with Oliver Sacks’ incredible material. So, yes, the source material that we have has been incredibly informative for what we’re doing on this show.”