Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Season One Finale of ‘Wayne Brady: The Family Remix’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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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.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 209 of ‘The Ark’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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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.

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.
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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.’

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.
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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

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. 
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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.’

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 305 of ‘Under the Vines’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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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.

​Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Series Premiere of ‘The Chicken Sisters’.
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When it comes to stories that feature broken families, certain storytelling elements will come into play. For instance, the shattered family in question is filled to the brim with good people, that have grown apart for foolish reasons that can easily be fixed. And fixing that family, and remembering what a family’s love entails, really are the central themes of these feel-good tales and these elements are present in these stories… because people love them. For they offer an escape. Since they never reflect the real reasons that a family will break to pieces, and they give us hope that what family life stands for, will always serve as a healing agent.

Which is why the new Hallmark+ series, The Chicken Sisters, is of note. Because it in many ways… shatters those tropes and concepts to present us with a vastly different kind of family story. One grounded in how families shatter and how hard it is to bring them together when broken. But it sure doesn’t seem as though that is the case early on. Since ‘Welcome to Merinac, Y’all’ starts off in a far more lighthearted, traditional manner. Wherein we meet Amanda Moore, who is an innocent in the midst of a grand feud between her family and the Hillier family that has lasted for ages. One involving whose family chicken shack is the better one and oddly, there is a moment where Amanda thinks she will become the bridge between the two, when she marries into the Hillier family. A move that normally… would provide us with a lovely reconciliation story.

But instead, that twist, changes the game for this tale. For we come to learn Amanda’s decision, put her and her family on one incredibly troubling path. Wherein Amanda’s sister May, leaves home and never looks back and where their mother, Gus, disowns Amanda more or less. Not to mention, life just doesn’t go the way that Amanda would expect. Since she finds herself in a loveless marriage and part of a business that isn’t growing. So, to shake life up and get something going… Amanda opts to get a reality competition show involved in everyone’s lives, entitled Kitchen Clash. Which will showcase the feud and net someone some money, and that does indeed energize everyone, and it even helps to bring May home. In part because May also lost her own reality show because of jaded moments.

But what the arrival of the show does not guarantee, is fixing everyone’s problems and that is what makes this show so special. Because every single character here is estranged from one another for vastly different and personal reasons. Since May is embarrassed by her family and her upbringing, and Gus is simply lost in this life and bitter and willing to hold grudges over finding happiness and peace. And of course, Amanda’s marriage is on the rocks and her family life is a mess. Giving rise to a different kind of shattered family story. One where old haunts and misunderstandings mean nothing. Instead, the divide here is about trauma, pain, regret, and a desperate push to run from problems instead of resolving them. Which is about as real and as raw as it gets, and examining every aspect of those problems, can teach us so much.

But before we ponder upon what that might look like, we can take a moment to applaud, a refreshing series premiere. One that truly made it clear that is going to be a unique family drama, grounded in real world elements and grounded in conflict that we can actually relate to. Since some of us have left family life behind for similar reasons or we have found ourselves in a position similar to Amanda’s, and it also doesn’t hurt… that this show just features an amazing cast. With Lea Thompson, Schuyler Fisk, and Wendie Malick just leading the charge and setting the tone for one incredible story. One that will hopefully showcase how families really heal, while an amazing and entertaining competition plays out. Until next time.

Watch ‘The Chicken Sisters’ on Hallmark+.

Please enjoy an exclusive sneak peek of Episode 206 of Kold x Windy, in advance of the show’s return tomorrow on ALLBLK!

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Six of ‘Bad Monkey’ To revisit the previous episode, clickhere.
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It is definitely safe to say that the vast majority of crime stories, follow a very specific pattern/formula. It starts with the setup, wherein we meet our hero and our villain and learn what they both want out of life. Then the case that brings their paths together, plays out, and slowly but surely, the cat and mouse game they engage in, brings us to the grand finale. Where our hero chases our villain with impunity, and accountability is everywhere to be found in the story. Which is why, Bad Monkey on Apple TV+ continues to impress. For it consistently breaks those rules to provide us with a vastly different type of crime story, as evidenced by this week’s tale. Because ‘Yo, Would You Tell Ms. Chase I Still Love Her Like Crazy’, not only featured one epic title, but also featured some early accountability in this story, for just about everyone outside of Yancy and Rosa.

Simply to offer up some satisfying moments, such as watching Eve and Christopher become incredibly uncomfortable over having their land scheme be exposed and exploited in a manner that didn’t benefit them. Which the Dragon Queen made happen. Since she used Egg and his desire for her, to bring her in front of Eve and Christopher, to inform them she owned land they would want. Which brought forth the little song and dance they often used to secure land, and that blew up in their faces. Since the Dragon Queen asserted herself here and called them to the carpet. In the hopes of landing the full amount she desired for the land and perhaps… to do her job as tasked by Neville, and this was quite the treat. Because when Yancy was chasing them, we never saw them this vulnerable and this uncomfortable and it is about damn time they were on their heels in this story in the right way.

Not to mention, Bonnie also found herself being held to account. Because with Cory back in her life, she had to figure out what lie ahead. For her life was in shambles and there really was no future in the cards for her. So, she decided the time had come to reflect upon her actions, and maybe see if there was something there with Cory, by heading up to the Yancy cabin. Wherein she met Yancy’s father, Jim, and she received a lot of sage advice from him. The kind that informed her, she could no longer run, and that she had to own up to her mistakes and face them in order to move forward in life. Advice she ignored until she finally realized how much emotional damage she imparted upon Cory and that Jim was right. So, she decided perhaps she would indeed pay the piper and move forward through accountability. That is, after stealing Jim’s boat for one last adventure before the feds could bring her in. Which isn’t total accountability, but for a character as broken as Bonnie, this works.

Of course, we would be remiss to not discuss the accountability that came forth in Yancy’s world. Because sadly, Mendez started off this episode looking like a hero. Because Sheriff Summers did indeed put the fear of God into Rogelio, and he was quick to turn Yancy in when he asked for help. Because he was at a point in his life where he just wanted to coast and enjoy a calmer life. A move that was sadly, going to come at great cost to Yancy. Because what Mendez had evidence wise, was enough for an indictment, and it didn’t help that there was zero evidence to back up Yancy’s claims regarding Christopher and Eve’s criminal empire. But thankfully, Rogelio held himself to account and knew that he had to do the right thing here, and he most certainly did right by his old friend and held Mendez accountable as well, since he was forced to flee for breaking more of the rules.   

All of which brought forth, a mostly satisfying episode. Mostly is used here, because we simply want more accountability than that. But it was a nice start. Because Christopher and Eve deserved this, and heavens knows Bonnie has needed some accountability in her life, as has Mendez. So, it was quite pleasant to see it happen here in some form or fashion, in a manner that poses questions. After all, the Dragon Queen’s smackdown of Eve and Christopher has us wondering if she will now hold up the resort, and if she will be okay, and of course… we don’t know if Neville will make it. Since he did face a brush with death because of Egg and the bad blood they share, and those questions of course, leave us eager for more of this wondrous show. To see what other shake ups to the crime story formula lie ahead, now that Yancy is free to continue the investigation. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Eight of ‘Women in Blue (Las Azules)’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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If there is one unsettling question about the human condition that we ask now and again, it would have to be… what motivates people to kill? Simply because so many of us outright understand the fact, that such an act is wrong. Because it removes a precious life, who others loved, relied upon and cherished, and their exit from this world through an act of such cruelty really is quite the unsettling thought. Yet, there are people who cross that line no problem, and seemingly do so with a measure of joy in their heart, and it just… does not… make sense. So, we turn to stories to comprehend such madness.

Because in that realm we can have science explore such matters in a safe space, to help us understand this evil, to help us be vigilant and recognize behaviors and patterns of those who hurt others, to keep them afraid of acting on their darkness or to pass warnings off to the right heroes. If anything, this old question and the why behind it are top of mind today, simply because such matters were featured in the next episode of Women in Blue (Las Azules) on Apple TV+. A feat that ‘Rosa’ accomplished, by going back in time to explore Benito’s origin story, so that the team could finally lock down if he was The Undresser or not.

Which they were able to figure out by pouring over every detail of his tragic and sordid life. Such as how he came to Rosa’s home out of tragedy. For his mother was brutally murdered at work, by his father no less, and he saw her body and was forever transformed. To the point where he was always silent and to the point where Rosa did her best to learn about what truly wounded him about that moment. Because she believed that just seeing a dead body would not be enough to traumatize a person into such a strange catatonic state and in this instance, she was right. For she also came to learn that abuse was in Benito’s household and that his mother tried to pull him away from that, and that… made it seem as though, he nothing more than a victim, and not a serial killer.

A possibility that was further enforced by the fact that the showed signs of promise. Since he participated with the other children in the house, and he eventually… opened up to Rosa more and more. To the point where she felt that finally… he was going to be on the right path and be a productive member of society. But that incident with the dog was too much to bear and revealed that Benito had more secrets that he kept hidden away from his adoptive mother. Such as the fact… that Benito was in consistent communication with his father before his mother died. In fact, he basically helped his mother die. Because his father taught him some stunning life lessons... the kind that no father should ever teach their son.

In that, he believed that women had a specific place in the home. To feed and serve and obey the man of the house and bear his children and care for them with a drive that could never be satiated. And to do otherwise, made them monsters, and made them individuals that needed to be punished. So, Benito followed those lessons and made his adoptive mother, his first kill. Making it clear, he is The Undresser while answering those questions. In that, the right amount of abuse and the right number of horrible lessons, especially imparted on someone who feels marginalized or is said to be, as was the case with Benito here… can push them to kill to enjoy power, to enjoy a sense of worth and that made for a fascinating and horrifying exploration. One that set up a scary truth.
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Because now that we know that Benito is indeed The Undresser, Gabina is in real trouble. Since she meets his mold and likely garnered his attention from that magazine article. Which means it may be a race against time to save a member of Las Azules. But before we ponder deeper upon that, we can celebrate… one powerful tale. For we truly learned a lot here and came to understand the savage mind of a killer that clearly… cannot be saved… and that made this as much a tragedy as a learning experience and such revelations also have us waiting on pins and needles for next week’s episode, to see how Las Azules will save Gabina from the machinations of a madman. Until next time.