Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 402 of ‘Slow Horses’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
If there is one thing that can be said of the phenomenal Apple TV+ series, Slow Horses, is that it doesn’t waste a single minute of screen time, and that’s a huge deal. Simply because it is what keeps this particular spy drama so fresh and so inviting. Since such a storytelling decision allows for the plot to chug along and for big reveals to come our way, and it also allows for answers to come forth about the mystery or villains at hand and well, never was the flawless nature of this more on display, than during this week’s brilliant episode of the show. For ‘A Stranger Comes to Town’ kept us on the edge of our seats, thanks to the answers and revelations it sent our way. Such as explaining what exactly happened on that fateful night at the Cartwright residence. Wherein we came to learn that poor David was genuinely confused and stressed. In large part because of the obvious, because some jackass came into his home claiming to be his grandson. Only to have his grandson show up shortly after that imposter took a shotgun shell to the chest. A move that forced River to work hard to calm granddad down and get him to relinquish the gun, so his panic and his fear didn’t harm the real River, and once that was done… River came to understand something was very amiss here and that there was real depth to this deception. Which prompted him to drop off David and head to France. But more on that in a moment. Simply because back in London, all kinds of revelations that tied into River’s quest came to pass. Some of which involved David and Jackson. Who we learned used to work together and that Jackson had great disdain in his soul for all things David. Because there were secrets to be had in their past, the kind that were beginning to bubble forth at MI-5. For an everyday employee that was digging into the whole mess, came to discover something unsettling about Robert Winters, the man responsible for blasting the mall and his apartment building to smithereens. In that, he appeared to have received a grand gift from MI-5 after the Cold War. One that would have given him a new identity and a new life, making it seem as though one of this agency’s assets had come back to haunt them.
Which of course, Taverner played off as a clerical error from an era long gone. But in reality, that was a cover story. For Winters was an asset, and this was a problem, and she made sure to maneuver about so that Claude would let her work hard on finding this man and his cohorts and of course… that means that Slough House is indeed involved in that search. Simply because Jackson was kind enough to share the good news with the group and speak to how he did his best to keep what River was up to, a secret. All of which will undoubtedly motivate the team to start moving toward understanding what’s happened here to help River, and of course… Jackson made his own moves here as well. Since he took the time to call out the new employee and their purpose for being at Slough House, implying deeply that her arrival might be related to this problem.
But while that was lovely to watch play out, since it spoke to how much the team loves River and how much they do enjoy being the hero despite being seen as cast offs, there was mention of more for River to handle in this tale. All of which came forth when he arrived in a tiny little burgh in France. A place that was filled with suspicion over people, and rightfully so. For up the way was some kind of training facility in an abandoned house. One that revealed the potential mastermind for this mess and that brought forth another juicy cliffhanger. Since the mystery man did enough to get River captured by someone with great interest in him and of course… this man revealed that he has a bone to pick with David Cartwright, and a man that used to work for him. Implying heavily that Jackson Lamb might be in trouble here. Simply because of his ties to David, and whatever their choices did to this man. All of which will of course be revealed later on since this episode is proof positive… this show keeps it moving and keeps the facts coming. Because now we know that old ghosts and haunts from MI-5’s past are part of the problem here and that revenge is what the Slow Horses will be trying to stop before things get out of hand. Which gave life, to one amazing tale. One that truly did engage us from beginning to end, and oddly, gave us peace. Because despite knowing that River was okay at the end of the last episode, spending time with him here just added much needed comfort, and of course… we are now beyond eager for more. Because this is getting juicy, and we must know why this man wants revenge and knowing this show, it won’t be long before we find out. Until next time. Watch ‘Slow Horses’
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Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Six of ‘The Anonymous’. To revisit the previous episode, clickhere.
Perhaps one of the most fulfilling aspects of playing a new game and learning the rules as you go, is that you discover how best… to best the game. For every competition out there harbors an element that can give a player an edge or an inside track to win and well, we are watching that happen real-time via the new USA Network competition series, The Anonymous. For everyone has been trying to figure out solid patterns and methods to win since the game began and little twists and turns and awkward moments have mostly derailed that. But it turns out that a strategy employed early on in the show, one that was abandoned until last week’s tale… might be the part of the puzzle to winning this thing. For ‘The Price of Safety’ saw a plan that the women executed, come to its completion. In that, the ladies of show wanted to send home a man, and that did happen. For Wayne was sent home this week, after shocking everyone with his truth and well, his exit, and what Jack had to say about why he chose Wayne… revealed what might win this game. First, is unity. Since the push to get Tyrenna up for elimination and out, and the same for a man, worked like a charm. Plus, Jack did discuss how eliminations should be strategic but feel appeasing in nature, so that others believe they’re getting what they want and so that it doesn’t seem like any one particular power play is happening. But of course, fully employing such strategies won’t be easy. As evidenced by how this week’s challenge went down. For the competitors were tasked with another prize money challenge, and this one was a doozy. Wherein the task, for teams of two, was to stack foam blocks that would equal/total a specific amount of money. And if that stack held true for three seconds, it would be added to the prize pot. Which went, in a lot of wild directions. Since the big cash totals were hard to stack and hard to add up, and that meant a lot of the big money was left on the table. Replaced instead, by piddly totals. That added little to the prize pot overall, and in many ways reflected a desire for immunity over winning, and well, that managed to split the group right down the middle. Because now there was unity in wanting to remove anyone that didn’t contribute enough to the pot, while at the same time… there was part of the group eager to start removing potential winners from the board. Because the more that some thought about it, the more they realized that Xavier could win this whole thing with his experience. Which in turn, brought about the spiciest chat we’ve seen to date. Wherein both sides went after one another, and where Marcel took it personal enough that he basically revealed his handle. But the battle on both sides, was reflected well here. Since Xavier was indeed up for elimination, as was Dillian, whom Andy has not been pleased with for some time. The only question now, is what strategy The Anonymous will employ. For it is up to them to decide to once again, either smooth things over for the group or be done with a potential winner. While we wait to see how that plays out however, we can revel in one amazing episode. One that truly showcased some strategy at last, the kind that could indeed bring someone to the grand prize no problem. Because these strategies have been working, and if the right person becomes The Anonymous, they could easily move the needle in their favor. But that aside, there was so much more present in this tale that deserves our awe. Such as the fact that Jack isn’t quite flying under the radar anymore, and that so many are starting to claim agency in the game. Since clearly, everyone is starting to really understand the stakes and how the game is played and they’re aware… that the right decision could lead them to the grand prize, and that is going to make the wait for next week’s episode quite painful. As we wait to see how these strategies will further work and to learn whether a fan favorite contestant or a titan of reality television will be sent home. Until next time. Watch ‘The Anonymous’
Written by John Edward Betancourt
One would think in this modern day and age, that it would be near impossible for a criminal to evade law enforcement for an extended period of time. After all, we can track the GPS on a cell phone, and there are CCTV cameras just about everywhere you go. And of course, the sheer use of a credit card and the existence of tip lines, should allow for the police to close in and bring a criminal to justice, quickly, and that is often of the case. But now and again, criminals find ways to evade law enforcement from capture… for decades on end if they play their cards right.
Which is something that the infamous Chameleon Killer did, and their ability to disappear from law enforcement’s radar before staring their criminal cycle anew was so epic and went on for so long… that their story is about to be chronicled in a powerhouse, three-part series on SundanceTV entitled, The Hunt for the Chameleon Killer. Which will debut on October 18, and well, to properly prepare you for this sweeping story, one that will explore how a criminal was able to evade the authorities and continue their crime spree for ages on end, here are all the details on this series… and a trailer for the show, courtesy of SundanceTV. ‘The gripping, limited true crime docu-series, The Hunt for the Chameleon Killer, is set to premiere Thursday, October 10 at 10pm ET/PT on SundanceTV and will also be available as a full-series binge on AMC+ and Sundance Now the same day. Airing weekly on SundanceTV, the three-part series chronicles the global hunt for the identity thief and murderer dubbed ‘The Chameleon Killer.’ After a headless, handless body is discovered in a Florida canal in 1990, law enforcement begins a search for the killer which takes them all the way to London before the trail goes cold. What ensues is a string of stolen identities, wrongful accusations, and a twelve-year cat-and-mouse chase across multiple countries as authorities close in on the most wanted woman in the world. Exploring all the crimes of Elaine Parent, The Hunt for the Chameleon Killer uncovers every potential victim and determines whether law enforcement is correct in their belief that she was a serial killer. It shows how Parent claimed an interest in numerology, and that she could predict the future with the help of key numbers, to get her victims to divulge their personal details, which she then used to steal their identities. Ultimately, The Hunt for the Chameleon Killer answers the key questions at the very heart of the story: Who was Elaine Parent? And what drove her to commit these crimes? The Hunt for the Chameleon Killer is a Sundance Now Original Series, produced by Impossible Factual Limited, and executive produced by Steve Maher and Jonathan Drake, with Adam Luria serving as director and producer. Executive producers for CBS AMC Networks UK Channels Partnership are Jess Rampling and Sam Rowden. About SundanceTV Since its launch in 1996, SundanceTV has remained true to founder Robert Redford’s mission to celebrate creativity and distinctive storytelling through unique voices and narratives found in the best independent films. From delivering critically acclaimed Emmy®, Golden Globe® and Peabody Award-winning television featuring some of the world’s most talented creators and performers, to showcasing some of the most compelling and iconic films across genres and generations, SundanceTV is a smart and thought-provoking entertainment destination. SundanceTV is owned and operated by AMC Networks Inc.; its sister networks include AMC, IFC, BBC America and WE tv. SundanceTV is available across all platforms, including on-air, online at www.sundancetv.com, on demand and mobile. 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. About Sundance Now AMC Networks’ Sundance Now offers cross-genre escapism for insightful viewers seeking fresh perspectives, thought-provoking experiences and transportive journeys to far-off places. With a rich selection of engrossing dramas, imaginative fantasy, gripping mysteries, riveting true crime and international thrillers, Sundance Now is committed to authentic, one-of-a-kind of stories from around the world – all streaming commercial-free. Sundance Now houses critically-acclaimed and award-winning original and streaming exclusive series including enchanting supernatural dramas A Discovery of Witches (Matthew Goode, Teresa Palmer) and Sanctuary: A Witch’s Tale (Elaine Cassidy); compelling international thrillers Riviera (Julia Stiles) and Black Snow (Travis Fimmel); riveting true crime series including The Long Shadow (Toby Jones, David Morrissey) and Des (David Tennant); acclaimed international dramas like Wisting and The Restaurant; and multi-Emmy winner State of the Union (Rosamund Pike, Chris O’Dowd; Patricia Clarkson, Brendan Gleeson). Sundance Now can be enjoyed for $6.99/month or $4.99/month with an annual membership. No cable subscription is needed. Facebook: @SundanceNow – Twitter: @sundance_now’ Written by John Edward Betancourt
It is definitely safe to say we are all a little downtrodden at the moment, and understandably so. After all, the world is at war again, political theater is in full swing, and everyone seems to be worried about themselves and nothing more. All of which is upsetting, all of which is disturbing, and it has us searching for something more. For moments that bring us joy and anything that will restore our faith in the reality that this too shall pass. Which is something that television helps with, since it often has stories that remind us that better times are always on the horizon and that people aren’t always selfish waffles, and one particular show that helps in this… is Acapulco on Apple TV+.
Simply because, it’s a lighthearted comedy that shows us a man working toward being more, and in the case of the next episode, being the best possible person they can be. Because ‘For Your Eyes Only’ saw Máximo make an incredible sacrifice for heartwarming reasons, that were motivated by the fact… that someone of serious note was at the resort. Because the best ophthalmologist in North America was staying at Las Colinas, and his arrival meant that there was a good chance that Máximo could have him examine his mother and figure out how to finally fix her eyesight. The only problem was… Máximo had to get Chad to sign off on having his mother and Sara at the resort. Something he refused to do, which made it seem as though this wasn’t going to happen. Especially after Nora spoke to her aversion to Las Colinas and held to her pride that this was something she could overcome. But a powerful speech from Máximo, wherein he expressed how wonderful it would be for her to see her grandchildren, was enough to get her and Sara to the resort. Wherein we discovered that Nora had cataracts, and that surgery would fix that, and that they could pay off said surgery over time. Which was wonderful news that came forth via great risk. Since Chad never signed off on that all-important day pass to get them into the resort, making it seem that Máximo put his job on the line for this, and that was likely the sacrifice in question. But alas, that was not the case. He got the day passes no problem, he just had to… help Chad properly apologize to Julia. For her birthday was near and she was of course, mad at Chad for being such a goof and for not seeing her for her. A move that initially inspired Máximo to have Memo and his family make one of her dress designs from scratch, that he would give to her on her birthday, to woo her away from Chad. But rather than go that route, Máximo offered up that gift to Chad, in exchange for those day passes. Which meant, Máximo straight up sacrificed his best shot at Julia to make sure that his mother would see again… and that was just beautiful to see play out and served as true inspiration in these trying times. Because it served to remind us that people are still capable of beautiful acts. Ones that benefit others through powerful sacrifice, and that, moments such as these, are likely happening in our world while we watch sour news play out on CNN or think about an unnerving and impending election. Which means… we should be focusing on that beauty and celebrating it. Because that’s the stuff that makes the world a better place, and the more we make that our focus, the more the world turns its attention away from loud, orange men that just won’t shut up. All of which made for a special and lovely tale, one that spoke to the wonder and heart of this show and how it truly does lift us up in these trying times… by reminding us of what we are capable of. Until next time. Watch ‘Acapulco’Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 408 of ‘Snowpiercer’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
For the most part, stories that revolve around the end of everything or life after the apocalypse, rarely feature deep and intimate moments that celebrate the wonder of the human condition, and rightfully so. After all, said stories are mired in the end of the world. Where it is beyond difficult, if not impossible, to find any measure of beauty or wonder. It’s about survival at that point and finding safety and shelter, and everything needed to carve out a solid future, and truly… there’s nothing wrong with this type of storytelling structure for stories in this vein. Because it does bring about amazing drama and intense moments that question a great deal about who we would become at the end of the world. But every now and again, you run into an apocalypse/post-apocalyptic story that defies that convention and works to find something deeper at the end of the everything. Which is why the AMC series, Snowpiercer, is of note. For it is that rare post-apocalyptic story that has taken the time to explore what’s worth saving in this life, and what matters over survival and it’s made a point to touch upon such matters in its final season, not once, but twice. For last night’s episode, expanded further on a concept it brought forth a few weeks ago. Specifically, what is the point of us surviving dark times if we cannot hold true to what makes society and humanity so wondrous, and it pulled off such a feat, by way of an emotional return to New Eden. For thankfully, Javi survived the blast, and with him in the infirmary, Big Alice rolled back into New Eden, and as everyone enjoyed the wonder of heat once again, another wondrous moment took place. For Layton, and Josie, and Liana were in a tough spot, and their power and heat was fading. But thankfully, Sam Roche showed up. Who, it was revealed, managed to get his hands on a snowcat and some cold weather gear and that allowed for him to rescue some old friends and keep Layton alive when the cold nearly claimed him. Giving rise to more beautiful reunions when everyone else returned home and well…. that brought forth the majesty in question
Because once the council was briefed on what they were facing, and who was behind all of their problems, the people of New Eden entered a period of reflection. Wherein they faced quite the incredible decision. In that, should they join up and do as Nima asked, and sacrifice for the greater good, by handing over Big Alice and their safety… or… fight. Fight to push back Nima’s forces, so they could live and grow what they built, and what they had. Which was… community, unity, family and everything we cherish. Because those are elements that make life worth living, and Sam’s rousing speech and story about how he escaped… prompted everyone… to fight.
After all, the best minds were aboard Snowpiercer, and they would easily figure out how to launch the rocket without hurting others. But alas, that still meant a fight was coming. So, to ensure safety and force Nima’s hand to think over impose… Big Alice was moved to a safe space and lookouts were prepped and that did indeed create a little panic on Snowpiercer. Wherein Nima did his best to manipulate Alex to go out there and infiltrate the town to get Big Alice in hand. A move that led to chaos in the town, and wounds and death. Since Nima’s forces had their cover blown, and gunfire ensued. All of which put Alex in a tough spot, one where she must decide what matters more as well. But while we wait to see what she decides, we can celebrate, one unique episode. One that truly spoke to something that few apocalypse stories do. In that, these stories don’t think about the fact that someday, the dark times will end, life will go on and normalcy will be found… and who will we become on that day? Which made for a beautiful story, that saw good people cherish the best parts of our world, of who we are, of how wonderful it is to have another in our lives… and focus deeply on building the foundation for a better tomorrow that doesn’t repeat our mistakes by cherishing life, and hopefully Alex also chooses that better path. So, compromise can be found, and humanity can finally work together on a plan to restore the world they lost… so they can rebuild society, the right way. Until next time. Watch ‘Snowpiercer’
Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Six of ‘My Lady Jane’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
For the most part, the fascinating (and cancelled too early) series, My Lady Jane, on Prime Video, has managed to steer clear of supremely deep social commentary through its first five episodes, and it makes sense as to why. After all, there was a lot of worldbuilding to accomplish in those early tales, so that we properly understood what was going on and what was at stake. Which is critical to good storytelling and the show has done an amazing job when it comes to this. Since we are indeed immersed in this fascinating alternate world, one where the Ethian/Human conflict has weight and has established what kind of fight lie ahead for the new Queen of England, one Jane Grey. But pitting everyday people against beings that are human yet harbor a unique gift, does scream of parallels to our own world. As does the prejudices that surround the Ethian people and their abilities. So, it stands to reason that social commentary had to eventually come into play and well, as it turns out, the next episode of the show was the right moment to make that happen. For ‘I Feel Fine’ had a lot to say about the world as it stands and what it might take to finally end some of the prejudices we harbor in society, and it accomplished such a feat by way of Mary. Whose journey we will get to in just a second, because we would be foolish to not point out that this episode featured some epic moments involving King Edward and Guildford. Who found themselves in situations that dug deep into Ethian hate and shame and forced both of them to fight for their very lives. Which spoke deeply to how the Ethians are in many ways… the stand-in in this story for the LGBTQIA+ community, and how they often face hate and are treated akin to second class citizens by so many. And for some reason, in 2024, that hate is resurgent and strong, and so many are of the opinion that individuals that have been around since the dawn of time are a problem and should be ‘dealt with’ or shunned. Which is of course, a stupid and narrow worldview and that is where Mary’s journey in this story… spoke to how we start to change those hearts and minds, and make it clear that all are one, and all are equal. And it starts, with someone saying enough. Which is precisely what Mary did here. Because she came to understand that this path was no longer sustainable for English society and was wrong to its very core. So, she forced everyone to work together and see one another as equals and she, of course, proclaimed equality was now the English way. Which spoke volumes to how… we need a voice in our world to do just that. A leader that is brave enough to say what needs to be said and truly speaks to equality. But they also must understand that the first person to do so, will face some real heartache and pain. Because sadly… there will be many who do not listen at first. But those aren’t the ones who are the target audience. It’s the everyday people who are sick of the hate and rhetoric and want a leader to give them license… to repeat that message and spread it far and wide until that chorus drowns out the hateful noise. But the only question in this story, is whether or not that message will get out to England. Because Mary was able to get some backers in this story, and they stormed the castle and were able to capture Jane. Which the set the stage for quite the penultimate episode. One where Jane will have to face off against hate, and a monstrous family member. But while we wait to see what comes out of that, since we are indeed in undiscovered country here, we can celebrate one stunningly brilliant episode. One that truly went places we’ve been waiting for this story to go, and truly showcased the show’s potential as a series, which does make the cancellation notice a tad more painful. But it is still lovely to see a series say such important truths about what needs to start happening in our world, to make it better and it make it equal for all. Until next time. Watch ‘My Lady Jane’
Written by John Edward Betancourt
One of the most fascinating aspects of the Lockup franchise on We TV, is how the network has managed to give life to so many unique chapters of the saga. Since we are often able to learn in detail how love works while someone is locked up via one chapter, while we also get to see how things go when that person in prison comes home to reunite with their love or begin a new one with a person they have only known from afar, in another. Because one would think that a franchise in this vein would eventually run out of steam… or run out of fresh moments for us to share in. But this one has not and will not. For the secret to its success are the people it follows around.
Since the saga allows for us to really get to know them, learn about their unique relationship and find relatability points within them and we simply crave what it has to offer, including the bad since there is some hard drama in this series and some low points. But it really is about a unique corner of life, and the franchise is such a well-oiled machine that it smoothly moves from one chapter to the next and it just so happens… that we are on the cusp of that new chapter. For October 4th will see the return of Life After Lockup, and it will bring forth seven couples for us to follow and learn from, and well, to properly celebrate this news… here is the cast roster for this new chapter in the saga, and a teaser trailer as well, as we prepare for more from this incredible franchise. 'The love stories continue on We TV as fan favorite, Life After Lockup, returns with 10 must-see, 90-minute episodes on Friday, October 4th at 8pm ET/PT. Episodes of Life After Lockup will also be available on popular AMC Networks streaming service, ALLBLK, every Tuesday. Life After Lockup follows seven former inmates and their significant others from the hit series Love After Lockup and Love During Lockup, continuing their journey to keep their love alive, establish a new life in the outside world and stay out of prison. The couples face parole restrictions including travel limitations, consorting with previously incarcerated individuals, combined with the temptations of alcohol and drugs. Meanwhile, couples who have stayed together grapple with the growing pains of love, family and marriage while navigating the emotional hurdles of trying to earn a living with a criminal record. Can they stay together and build a life outside of prison?” MEET THE COUPLES: Bianca & Daniel (Scottsdale, AZ) After Daniel’s family leaves Arizona, the couple is forced to start this new chapter together without any family or friends around. Arguments begin to arise when their new life is not at all what Bianca was expecting when she picked up everything and moved to Arizona to be with him. She still doesn’t have a ring on her finger, their sex life is underwhelming, and Daniel won’t even make her a cup of coffee! With only a few months left on the lease of their apartment, will this young couple be able to work through their issues, or will they decide to go their separate ways? Zeruiah & Troy (Syracuse, NY) Now that Troy is home, Zeruiah is determined to loop him into all their business affairs. Troy is introduced to Project HEAL, their non-profit organization that aims to provide support to the formerly incarcerated. But Zeruiah is keeping a secret about their business. Kimberly & Joey (Eden, NC) Following Joey’s recent release from prison, Kim and Joey have been adjusting to life together in the free world. Joey is stepping up as a stepfather to Kim’s boys, and Kim is over the moon about having her fiancé home. As Joey spends more time with Kim’s son, Kasen, he starts to suspect that Kasen may be his biological son. But Kim is worried that the results of a DNA test could affect the boys and change everything. Tennie & Robert (Yukon, OK) As Rob and Tennie navigate their new life together, Rob’s mom, Kate, becomes a major wedge in their marriage. Kate believes Rob has left her behind to take care of Tennie and her children. Tennie & Kate come to blows at his Welcome Home party, and Rob feels torn between his wife and mother. Rob begins to dream about having a baby of their own. Tennie had to raise two children as a single mother and is not sure she wants to risk going through that again. Can they move past Rob’s mama drama, and will the couple come to a compromise on if they are prepared to bring a new child into the world? Melissa & Louie (Atlantic Highlands, NJ) Louie is 18 months out and Melissa is ready to take the next steps and get engaged! Melissa’s focus is pressuring Louie for a 2-carat diamond ring, but Louie’s mom, Donna, thinks he’s moving too fast. Louie is working multiple jobs to scrounge up the money to make Melissa’s dreams come true…will they find their happily ever after? Britney & Kerok (Richmond, VA) When we last saw Bri and Kerok, they were engaged and living their best life in Virginia. During this season of Life After Lockup, Bri and Kerok are looking to make some changes, the biggest being moving to Texas! And they’re not going alone – Kerok’s mom, Tammy, is along for the ride. As they gear up for the big move, they get a shocking call that changes everything! Justine & Michael (Las Vegas, NV) Justine and Michael finally moved from Pennsylvania to Las Vegas with their big, blended family and newborn, Manhattan Barbie. However, Manhattan isn’t going to be the newest addition for long because Justine and Michael are pregnant with child number NINE! Love After Lockup is produced by Sharp Entertainment, a part of Sony Pictures Television. Executive producers are Matt Sharp, Dan Adler, Sophie Mallam and Alan Madison with Sara Hayworth serving as co-executive producer. Angela Molloy SVP Development & Original Production, Unscripted and Lisa Marie Angelo, Director Development & Original Production, Unscripted, executive produce for We TV. About We TV We TV is AMC Networks' premium destination for relatable characters, authentic stories, and high-stakes drama. We TV creates an inclusive experience where culture, passion, and drama thrive with buzzworthy moments and shareable content that dominates social engagement and drives everyday conversations. From daring reality series to emotionally charged procedurals, We TV’s curated offerings provide an authentic approach to the human experience with a touch of glamour and aspiration. For real people, real drama, and real life – We TV. For Real.'
Caution: This rapid recap of Episode 537 of ‘Love After Lockup’ contains spoilers.
Please enjoy this rapid recap of Episode 537 of Love After Lockup on WE tv, along with a refresher clip! EPISODE 537 – “Love Me, Love Me Not” – Aired September 6th on We TV at 8pm ET/PT Troy goes missing when his ex causes trouble in his marriage. True ambushes Shonta. Hope is stunned by Arthur’s breakdown. Daniel’s parents question Bianca’s motives. Latisha delivers devastating news to Keith. Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 206 of ‘Power Book II: Ghost’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
Over the course the past four years, the characters that populate the world of Power Book II: Ghost, have never faced a real, and outright terrifying threat. The kind where their lives are truly in jeopardy. Yes, they’ve faced challenges in this STARZ series, since they’ve had people challenge their standing and safety. But each and every one of them have risen to the occasion, and schemed their way out of trouble and made those who challenge them pay and pay dearly. But no one has ever been above them and controlled their lives and left them helpless in the process and been impossible for them to defeat. That is… until last night’s episode of show arrived. For ‘The Devil’s Playground’ changed the dynamic for the St. Patrick and Tejada families. Because they were no longer the apex predators of the story, they were all… minions of Detective Carter and victims of their own machinations and that brought about a vastly different kind of story. One where Cane Tejada dealt with the latter of those two concepts. Because Zion was struggling with having his pride broken by Cane, and that prompted him to retaliate and try to murder Cane and Noma. An act he failed at, but he did kill Noma’s hopeful new business contact. Putting her money in jeopardy and leaving Cane in a busted place mentally. Because there was no grace, no understanding for this mistake. Something he was accustomed to receiving. Just accountability and the return of Tariq and Brayden to the fold and Cane was clearly lost at the end of this tale because of this new normal. But his family, suffered far harder. Because Detective Carter was in their lives constantly, and any attempts made to uncover some dirt on him to put an end to this madness, was a waste of time. Simply because he was ten steps ahead and he expected Monet and Dru, to do his bidding at his beck and call and what he wanted from them… was difficult for certain. For he wanted Dru to handle a prison assassination to ensure that this police-sanctioned criminal empire would thrive, and truly… Dru had no choice. For there was no escape, no out, and he did as he was asked and even tried to leverage freedom by offering to handle a rat he discovered, because he could not stand being without control in such matters.
As for Monet, being relegated to being a criminal informant to this disgusting ‘detective’ in title only, left her as listless as Cane, and she truly struggled to reconcile how far she’d fallen and how helpless she was. Plus, even Diana was dragged into their dirty deeds. Since Detective Lewis, tasked her with killing Zion. Because it turned out, that the reach of Detective Carter and his dirty task force was far and wide, and he actually controlled Zion and he wanted Zion dead to keep all of the task force’s illegal work a secret, and he flexed his power hard in this tale. Since his demands of Monet put Effie within an inch of her life, and as evidenced by the shocking moment that took place between, he and Kamaal on a fateful night.
For Detective Tate came to realize that something was amiss about Carter’s unit, and since he was of the belief that Carter was legit, he approached Carter thinking full well their chat would go the right direction. But alas, Carter was quick to kill Kamaal, and his team further flexed, by offering up some cruelty once Zion was dead. For Diana asked Tariq and Brayden to handle her dirty work since they had experience in such matters, and they were fine with helping. But Lewis saw the result, putting Tariq on the NYPD’s radar as well, and Diana was roughed up for disobeying orders. To the point where she might lose the baby. All of which speaks to how cruel Carter and his team are, how far they are willing to go to maintain power, and how much trouble the St. Patrick and Tejada families are in right now. Because how does one escape the supreme resources of the New York Police Department? All of which brought forth a vastly different type of episode of Power Book II: Ghost. Since truly, we’ve never seen these families struggle so badly to control their own destinies, and of course… we’ve never seen them suffer in this manner. Because they’re in a dark place and there is no going against the police, not without bringing down the full force of the NYPD upon them, and that informs us… that the back half of the final season of the show… will be unique in nature. As these characters scramble to find agency, scramble to find freedom and a way forward, without losing their lives to a corrupt cop that is just drunk with power, and it will be interesting to see if they can be free of him and if this sudden change in their lives will be central to the end of their journeys in a few short weeks. Until next time. Watch ‘Power Book II: Ghost’
Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Eight of ‘Me’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
There comes a point in all of our lives, where we see the world in quite the shocking light. It often happens in adulthood at varying moments, but sometimes it arrives in our younger years. But one way or another… we will experience a harrowing moment that helps us to understand that the world is not the place of sunshine and rainbows, and unity that we are told it is, in our extreme youth. Instead, we come to learn that the world is a volatile place full of beauty and full of sorrow and that… we are truly on our own within its realm, and no one will come to help us in times of crisis. Which can be quite the scary and eye-opening revelation for certain. Because it truly does make one feel alone, and helpless, and it leaves one wondering how they can find any sense of comfort when it is removed from our very soul. But there are ways to find peace, and there are ways that we can find support in times of crisis and when we are in the midst of trying to reconcile that truth. All of which, was explored in the next episode of Me on Apple TV+. Since ‘Letting Go’ exposed that truth and showed us how we find that comfort, and it accomplished such feats, by placing Ben in quite the unique situation emotionally. Because he was in many ways… alone in this tale. For Max was still furious with him, and rightfully so. But Ben wasn’t prepared to live in the house without his sister, and have Max avoid him at school and that wounded him deeply and helped him to understand the chaos of the world, and that was further exacerbated by the fact… that Carter started his training. Because it was hard, in part, because it was all new to him, and while he was a natural, he still had much to learn, and he had to contend with evil. For those loyal to Yates and his cause were out and about and eager to find Carter, for reasons that weren’t clear at first… but were soon revealed to Ben. In that, Carter harbored an incredible power. One that was able to stun Yates during their first battle and one that needed to stay far away from him. For Ben also came to learn that Yates was collecting powers and doing his best to put all the heroes down to get to Carter and well, Ben was the last hero standing. Which freaked him out and cemented that lesson. Because just like that, he understood how cruel the world could be, how evil thrived in a place where people fought against it and that… he was alone in fighting against it. Which terrified him to no end and prompted him to explore how we contend with the reality that the world can be such a scary and unsettling place. Which involves… finding some measure of comfort. Usually through our friends and our family. Because they are a safe space, and they can help us pause and look at what’s chewing at us objectively, so we don’t slip into full panic. Which Ben tried to do by visiting Max, and while he was unsuccessful in that moment, it shouldn’t be long before she steps back in, since she knows Ben needs her and she cares about him for certain. But while we wait to see that safe space surround Ben, we can celebrate one amazing tale. One that set the stage for a huge showdown, wherein Ben will have to stand tall, all while offering up those amazing life lessons this show is known for. That was even extended to Carter, since it touched upon the loss she’s faced in life. Because this series is indeed… about growing up, and discovering the ups and downs of the world, so we can settle into its chaos and find a little slice of peace in the madness. Until next time. Watch ‘Me’
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