Welcome back my fellow Star Wars fans!! Obi-Juan here… returning post Ahsoka (Disney+) season one to revisit my previous article on some of the most highly anticipated characters of the series. Now that the dust has settled. I thought it would be fun to go from a: “can’t wait to see them in action” stance into a: “so… how did they do?” conclusion. Following the same order as my first feature – beginning with Ahsoka herself – let’s dive right in, shall we?

Ahsoka Tano (Rosario Dawson)
To say I fell in love with this character throughout Star Wars: The Clone Wars (2008-2020) and Star Wars: Rebels (2014-2018) would be putting it mildly. Originally brought to life by George Lucas. Ahsoka – fleshed out by Dave Filoni and voiced by Ashely Eckstein – remains the most unique character tie-in throughout the Skywalker Saga and she didn’t even exist before 2008. *WOW!!* Now, in this stand-alone live action series… like her introductions in The Mandalorian (2019-present) and The Book of Boba Fett (2021)… Dawson continues to shine as the titular character. Effortless to watch. For me, Dawson embodies Ahsoka in virtually every way allowable. In short, she kicks ass!! *KAPOW*
​
Some criticized her for being too stoic in the beginning by asking where her bubbly disposition displayed in the animated shows was. I argue that she was in a state of grief and regret over Anakin. Carrying an immense amount of guilt caused her to retreat within herself. Especially after feeling she failed Sabine as a Master. Besides, that stoicism existed towards the end of Rebels and with virtually no time passed between the two shows, I think it would be strange to see Ahsoka any different. *DUH!!* She’s no longer a wide-eyed young Padawan and her transition after the World Between Worlds was excellent. Her mood, outlook and disposition lightened after her time with her former Master. It changed her and it showed!! Making all of it from beginning to end feel deliberate and cohesive. *HECK YEAH!* Further, watching Ahsoka in live action only solidifies the growth of a character who traveled straight into war as a child to come out the other side a wise and powerful Force wielding woman! *NICE!!*

​Sabine Wren (Natasha Liu Bordizzo)
Overall, I really liked Natasha in this role. She most definitely fit the requirements of the spunky and headstrong Sabine Wren. Hair and all! However, I was a bit disappointed in some of her riskier decisions. I groaned asking what the heck she was thinking!! *UGH!!* Which unfortunately happened multiple times throughout the series. Particularly early on. To add to this, the original dynamic between Wren and Ahsoka felt a bit dis-jointed. Thrusting in the Jedi training arc without out any real backstory left me constantly feeling like I had missed something when in fact, I hadn’t. Though, I don’t fault the actor as her portrayal was quite solid. By the end, the Padawan-Master dynamic took hold with great care, but the beginning left a lot to be desired. This gave Natasha little to work with beyond spite for Ahsoka, sadness for Ezra and disappointment in herself. Now that the groundwork is laid, I truly hope we get to see Sabine shine as bright at her animated counterpart. Especially since Ezra’s back and she’s now in touch with the Force. *DAMN STRAIGHT*

Hera Syndulla (Mary Elizabeth Winstead):
Though Hera Syndulla stood on the sidelines for the majority of the season, Winstead was fantastic in the role. Nuances throughout showed Syndulla’s strength that was so beautifully displayed in Rebels and Winstead embodied the character with ease. I especially liked her interactions with Ahsoka and Sabine. Careful not to take sides and forever be the voice of reason, Hera coaxed understanding and showed immense faith in her group of rebels. Just like in the cartoon. *AWWW!!*
​
A small subset of fans complained that using the actor’s real eyes would’ve made the character more compelling but I beg to differ. Similar to all the other characters, having different eyes than their animated twins would’ve felt less real somehow. Particularly since the live action is a direct carry over of Rebels and is often described as Season 5 of the popular series. Plus, what’s Hera Syndulla without her Ghost?? What a treat to see this ship in all its glory beyond a blip in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (2019)… LOL!! I also REALLY loved watching Hera interact with the Senate. As well as with her son Jacen (Evan Whitten) who we all, for good or bad, expect to see train as a Jedi at some point, right?  *FINGERS CROSSED*

​Baylan Skoll (Ray Stevenson):
There’s so much to love here, I scarcely know where to begin!! I mean… Ray grabbed the character of Baylan Skoll and never let go. His presence… though menacing and calculating was perfectly balanced with a sad disillusionment for the Jedi Order. Having survived Order 66, Skoll’s pain for what the Order had become was palpable. As was his love for a time long gone. To add to this, however misguided, his pursuit of power felt less like a greedy quest and a lot like a righting of past wrongs. For he’s not mistaken that in the end the Jedi Order became political puppets and a shadow of their former selves. *RIGHT??* Yet, two sides of the same coin… Skoll’s path to the Dark Side is equally as reckless. Regardless, due to Ray’s portrayal, part of me wanted him to win as he literally stole every single scene he was in! *DAMN STRAIGHT* Knowing that Stevenson passed away after wrap, it will be interesting to see what they do with the character going forward. Particularly since he reached the precipice of his quest by season’s end. Rest is peace Ray Stevenson (1964-2023)! You are forever a part of Star Wars Canon and to say your presence will be missed going forward is the understatement of the year… *SIGH*

Grand Admiral Thrawn (Lars Mikkelsen):
As suspected, Mikkelsen moving his voice role to the physical as Grand Admiral Thrawn was absolute perfection!! Cunning, calculating and calm. Ever the brilliant tactician and historian. His cold red eyes held immense life and Mikkelsen’s movements were of such a relaxed and confident nature that it’s easy to see how Thrawn climbed the ranks so quickly. Just like his cartoon equal, I couldn’t get enough. His presence commands attention with each moment and I hung on his every word. *FANTASTIC!!* No wonder he appears somewhat God-like to his soldiers. A character now decades in the making – from print to screen – it’s also quite clear that Mikkelsen enjoys the role immensely. Telling Entertainment Weekly: “He [Thrawn] utilizes the creativity around him, and I like that. He doesn’t just kill people off for the fun of it. He’s sort of seven pages ahead of everybody else.” *ABSOLUTE FACTS!!* And ohhhh does it show!! His images alone are thrilling to look at and I cannot wait for more!!   

Heck Yeah They Appeared!!
Unsure of how the characters below would show up, if at all… I questioned their appearance in my initial article under a: “Will They Appear?” section. I’m happy to report that Filoni and crew did not disappoint… *WOOT!!*
​
Anakin Skywalker (Hayden Christensen): I mentioned in the original piece that seeing Hayden come back to play Anakin would be a dream come true. Boy…was it ever!! His scenes were some of the best of the entire season. Seeing Anakin come full circle post his Star Wars: Return of the Jedi (1983) redemption and death was something I didn’t even know I needed!! And what a perfect way to do it… in the World Between Worlds!! The flashbacks. The lessons. The fight scenes. All of it was spectacular and exactly what Ahsoka required to let go of her guilt and emerge a new soul. *AMAZEBALLS!!*

Ezra Bridger (Eman Esfandi) and Chopper the Droid: Though I always liked Ezra, he’s not the most beloved character in Rebels, that’s for sure. I’m glad to see him in a different light now. Eman is an absolute delight as the character. All grown up from his rebel days and an accomplished student of the Jedi art to boot. *NICE* Chopper held his own as well. Plus, I love that he knew who Ezra was before anyone else did. Their bond was special and quite funny in the series. Akin to Luke (Mark Hamill) and R2, I hope to see more!!

The Witches of Dathomir: Because I truly didn’t know what to expect, these lovely dark entities were not included in my first outing. However, I would certainly be doing them a disservice by not mentioning them now. For they acted as the perfect anchor to Thrawn and his ability to not only build his army but reach across worlds to communicate with fellow sister Morgan Elsbeth (Diana Lee Inosanto). Who also held her own by the way!! *HECK YEAH SHE DID!!* I look forward to seeing what other evils the Nightsisters magick holds!!  

Well kids, that wraps up my re-visit to all of these amazing characters. The leap from animation to live action has been an absolute joy to see. I hope you appreciated the crossover as much as I did!! As I always say, it’s a great time to be a geek!! *WINK*

Until next time… May the Force Be With You… Always!

Please enjoy this sneak peek of Episode 205 of Harry Wild, which premieres on Acorn TV on Monday, October 30, 2023!

Also, this sneak peek was assembled/written during the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike. Without the labor of the currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 204 of ‘Loki’. To revisit the previous episode, click here. Also, this piece was written during the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike. Without the labor of the actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.
​
Several topics that have recently come up often in our discussions of the hit Disney+ series, Loki, is how the show continues to surprise us with its unconventional storytelling and the unique risks it likes to take. And these continue to be discussed… simply because this show is showing no signs of slowing down regarding such matters. For clearly, it wants to shake things up, and surprise us and give us stories that defy what the MCU normally stands for and that has made for a refreshing viewing experience, one that the show is only leaning harder into as season two continues along, as evidenced by this week’s outright stunning tale.

For ‘Heart of the TVA’ dropped perhaps the boldest episode to date of the series into our laps and it accomplished that feat by way of several key twists. Such as having the bad guys… find great success during this tale. Because Renslayer and Miss Minutes decided during their time at the end of time, that perhaps they should be in charge of the TVA instead and do things right this time around, and that brought them back to their friends. Wherein they offered up a desperate plea to each of them to join them or face death, and well… everyone but Brad chose death. For they agreed with Loki and Mobius after all, and decided to lose their lives in the name of the countless timelines and that were thriving and sadly, their passing allowed for this duo to cause more trouble for our heroes.

Who were working in the bowels of the TVA, to get the Temporal Loom up to snuff with Victor Timely so everything could be saved, and well… that work was going slow and was further delayed by Renslayer and Miss Minutes. Simply because they re-took control of the TVA’s systems and locked everyone out from what needed to be done, and when given the opportunity, they even kidnapped Victor to see if he could do their bidding. Which forced Loki and Sylvie to get to work and rescue Victor and that led to more surprises. Such as learning that Loki was the one who pruned himself, since the timelines matched up in this story, and this sequence also brought about the end of Miss Minutes and Renslayer. Since a system reboot put that mischievous and evil clock AI down and Sylvie had Brad finally help them out with a little trickster magic since he pruned Renslayer.

But while those surprises were quite impactful, since villains don’t usually fall at the middle point of a television season, they still influenced what was to come quite nicely. Because they delayed the repair of the Temporal Loom, and well… that delay brought about nothing but disaster. For when the time came to finally make this happen, not only did Victor Timely offer to handle the repair in person… but he died as a hero in the process. For the temporal radiation had grown too strong, and the delays were the cause of that, and that destroyed Victor in the process, and it would seem, it destroyed the TVA as well. For in the closing moments of this story, the Loom detonated under the strain of too many timelines, forcing our heroes to simply stand there, and wait for the temporal energy to blast through the TVA and all of them.

Which was… quite the cliffhanger to send our way and the perfect way to continue to surprise us and offer up an unconventional tale. For the heroes aren’t supposed to lose in the MCU. But here… they did. For Timely died, the TVA lie in ruin and who knows what the fate of Loki and his friends will be. And that’s about as unconventional as it gets and that helped to solidify what we could consider to be… the darkest MCU story we’ve seen to date. Because this one had all the marks of an ugly tale, and it featured some stunning losses and what’s wild, is that we still have two episodes left in this journey. Which means, we are now in undiscovered country, and we have no idea where the show is taking us, and that’s brilliant and that’s wondrous and that absolutely leaves us eager to see where this bold and brilliant series is headed next. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 409 of ‘Star Trek: Lower Decks’. To revisit the previous episode, click here. Also, this piece was written during the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike. Without the labor of the actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.
​
We like to believe, that an easy cure for our problems and woes, is to surround ourselves with good things, and there is merit to that line of thinking. After all, when we have people making us laugh, we do indeed feel great. And sometimes, just going out and having a blast or picking up a couple of comfort items do the same. But alas, those feelings are fleeting in nature and there is good reason for that. Because in order to truly be free of our woes, we have to confront them, resolve them and truly make peace with them, for they will hang over us until the end of our time, regardless of how much good surrounds us. And for proof, look no further than the next episode of Star Trek: Lower Decks on Paramount+.
​
For ‘The Inner Fight’ took the time to ponder upon how… PTSD and trauma and other such 21st Century ailments, are alive and well in the 24th. They just happen to be easily masked by the benefits of the Federation. For being able to have the basics of what we need, would indeed keep dark thoughts at bay for some time. But even, they are there, hiding behind the smiles of a replicated cup of hot cocoa and a replicated sundae and the story pondered upon that in a supremely unique manner. For Lieutenant Beckett Mariner was continuing to act out in this story, to the point where she kept putting her life at risk for issues that didn’t require such risk and well, that concerned her mother deeply, to the point where she asked for help from Mariner’s friends.

Because the strange vessel that had been targeting ships all over the Alpha and Beta Quadrants, was targeting ex-Starfleet officers next. From the biggest of names, such as Beverly Crusher to the deeper STU cuts, such as Nick Locarno. Who you might remember from The Next Generation episode, ‘The First Duty’. And well, the risk of harm coming to Locarno, prompted Captain Freeman to have Tendi, Boims, and T’Lyn take Mariner along on a simple mission to update a weather relay orbiting an obscure planet so that she could be safe and well… that brought forth all kinds of epic surprises regarding the mystery ship and what happened to the crew’s that we recently learned, were being stolen by this vessel.

In that, those souls were being stored on the very planet below that weather relay. And concerns from more Klingons working with this mystery ship, forced the Lower Deckers to beam down and discover all those missing crews and other dangers abound. And while they hunkered down to sleep… Mariner made a point to get out there and save the day and while she was out and about, she ran into a hearty Klingon who questioned her ferocity and her misplaced anger and that was when Mariner opened up to inform us… that she was once friends with Ensign Sito from the TNG episode, ‘Lower Decks’, ironically enough… and that Sito’s death in that episode, impacted Mariner deeply. To the point where she lamented some of what Starfleet stood for and what it was willing to sacrifice in the name of the greater good. Simply because she had unresolved PTSD from Sito’s death, and never dealt with it until that moment.
​
But at last, she did, and that was proof positive that such matters are part of the human adventure and need to be dealt with for us to find peace and move forward and once it was resolved, Mariner accomplished wonders. Because she rallied everyone to work together and fight back to send a distress call and to seize the Bird of Prey that was hovering above the planet. So, they all could be free at last, and it was powerful to finally learn what truly has pushed Mariner to be the way she is and fight the system. But of course, there was the whole matter regarding Locarno, and that mystery ship, and what the show revealed to us regarding both elements, was quite stunning. For it was discovered by Ruthy, that the ship was constructed carefully by Nick Locarno, and it was flown by him as well, and he was so confident that Mariner was still set in her ways of sticking it to Starfleet… that he brought her aboard and asked for her help. 

Which of course, is a cliffhanger ending, that brings about more questions. Such as what is Locarno’s motivation here? Is it to destabilize the quadrants? Break up the Federation? Time will tell of course, but what we do know at this point, is that the species that sent the whale probe is not involved, nor is Moopsy. It’s all one sour man who could be getting revenge for washing out of Starfleet when his washout was all his own damn fault. But what matters more, is that this was a beautiful and powerful tale about healing and the work that goes into that, and how important it is that we do so. Because without healing, we are stuck in life, and Mariner could be on quite the path now… provided

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 514 of ‘Magnum P.I.’ To revisit the previous episode, click here. Also, this piece was written during the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike. Without the labor of the actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.
​
Something that is genuinely fascinating about the fifth (and now) final season of Magnum P.I. on NBC, is the sheer fact that this year’s stories have tried some bold new things for the franchise. After all, the first half of year five offered up serialized storytelling, which is rare for a crime drama, revolving around Magnum’s past and some nefarious entities. Whereas the back half of season five is making it clear to us… that the show wants to focus on a central theme really. Specifically, what it means to go above and beyond… to just do good in this world. Because so many stories post midseason break, have focused on righting wrongs and how lives can be impacted by the evils of the world, and this week’s episode echoes those sentiments as well.
​
For ‘Night Has a Thousand Eyes’ saw Magnum and Rick teaming up to solve quite the case for a friend of Rick’s. Who… was dealing with some serious life problems. For Jason recently survived a horrific and fatal car crash that took the life of his friend and a Honolulu PD officer and well… he was facing a lot of problems because of this. For he had alcohol in his system the night of the crash and the assumption was, he was behind the wheel and did this, and charges would be brought to bear. But what had him concerned, was that he wasn’t behind the wheel, and he only survived because he was pulled from the fiery wreckage of that crash, and he needed the person that yanked him out of there to speak up and clear his name so he could grieve and pick up the pieces of his life. 

Which is exactly who Rick and Magnum set out to find, and that embroiled them in quite the moral quagmire. For it turned out that all of this was set in motion, by way of a dirty State Senator. Who in turn used his power to get a good cop into a bad situation and that in turn led to a wrong moment, wrong time scenario for the good Samaritan that saved the day. But thanks to Magnum and Rick, they were able to not only keep that hero safe long enough to speak up and save another life… but they put down corruption in their town because it was just wrong and because abuses of power are wrong. All of which stood to that central theme we discussed a moment ago and made for one uplifting and beautiful story about standing by people that have been wrong, and perhaps showing them a better way in the process. Since that good Samaritan did need to find a new career path.

But while that was lovely to enjoy that storyline, this tale also featured some other wonderful plot lines. One of which involved a conundrum for Higgy. Because she failed her private investigators certification exam multiple times and had to reckon with the reality that she could only do so much in this case, giving rise to a fascinating vulnerability for her and some frustration. Because she loves helping people and not being able to dive in, was a lot for her to handle. Plus, this episode also featured T.C.’s return home from the hospital and coming home brought forth a great deal of reflection for him. The kind that spoke to how his brush with death might have inspired him to really look at his life from a new angle. And really, it was just nice to be reminded of the depth these characters harbor and enjoy more time with them and the decency that runs through their veins.

All of which helped to bring together, a stunningly human tale about decency, and well… that’s not a bad theme to see on the air right now. Since the world is angry and fussy, and bad things are happening, so why not enjoy a show that features good people, doing right by others? And if that’s all the show is going to focus on for the next few weeks before saying goodbye, then that is just fine too. Because such a move really is treating us to some dynamic and uplifting stories and there is no better way to bid farewell to a five-year journey, then through good vibes, hope, and a grand reminder that we can be better through and through. And truly… it will be interesting to see what other wholesome stories await us as we inch toward the end of Magnum and Higgins’ time on the air. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 204 of ‘Quantum Leap’. To revisit the previous episode, click here. Also, this piece was written during the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike. Without the labor of the actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.
​
One particularly fascinating aspect of the human condition that we really don’t spotlight enough, but should, is the bittersweet nature of the kindred spirits. Simply because that rare connection between two people who are sharing in something similar emotionally, can be quite unique and quite powerful and it deserves its day in the sun because of what it can do for people. For it can help people heal and find strength in understanding that they are not alone and sometimes… even its more toxic aspects can offer up benefits. For while it can encourage bad behavior, that behavior can allow for people to reach the all-important low point where they understand they need to make a change and well, this fascinating aspect of humanity is top of mind today, because it was put on full display in the next episode of Quantum Leap on NBC.
​
For ‘The Lonely Hearts Club’ saw Dr. Ben Song inhabit the body of a Hollywood Talent Agent back in the 1990s, on the day when she lost… Hollywood legend Neal Russell. Which was problematic simply because Neal was on the cusp of a comeback on this day, one that should have revitalized his career but ended up being his last day on earth. Which meant that Ben was tasked with changing that path, and keeping Neal alive and well, that was going to be no easy task. For Neal Russell as it turned out, was more than just a charming movie star, but a real romantic and someone that wanted to be loved, and wore his emotions on his sleeve, and it really seemed as though, the pending nuptials on this day for Neal’s ex-wife was going to serve as the catalyst for his end. Unless of course… Ben could help them find love all over again.

Which is where this story began its exploration on how two aching souls find solace in one another’s troubles. Because in reality, Ben was also a romantic and hurting and wanting to be loved by the one woman that kept him pushing for a way home, and he connected with Neal and truly believed he could help himself heal from his own heartache, if he could get those two lovebirds back together. A move that Addison pushed to stop, but there was no stopping this literal lonely-hearts club, because Ben really did try to find solace and peace and meaning out of seeing someone love again, and well… he failed miserably at making that happen. Because there was no reconciliation, no happy ending. Just another broken heart and a chance that Ben was going to be trapped in the 90s for the rest of his life.

But a wonderful pivot and assist from Addison, saved the day. Because it allowed for Neal to reconcile with his estranged daughter whom he also wanted to love, and that… that was enough to keep Neal alive and thriving and enjoying a new career. But what mattered more, is that Ben found someone to share in his own pain over Addison, and her new relationship, and used that to understand the futility of his own romantic situation and made peace with it accordingly. Of course, some may disagree with his decision/resolution on the matter, but it is made none the less, and this journey really did teach us… that aligning with people who share in our emotional pain, can be quite the benefit, regardless of our actions in that moment. Because sometimes being seen and being able to make mistakes are the best ways to heal and move forward.

Yet while that was a fascinating lesson, this episode also made sure to offer up some big moments in 2023 as well. Since we came to learn that Ian’s decision to push for better technology may have compromised the program’s security, and Tom posed quite the hypothesis about the program. In that, perhaps there is no way home for Ben Song and Sam Beckett, and that is the price of discovering time travel, and clearly, both of those moments will be revisited and play larger roles down the line because you don’t feature that kind of surprise and that kind of musing without coming back to both. But in the meantime, we can celebrate another supremely human story. One that resonated with all of us and reminded us of the wonder of the kindred spirit and it will be interesting to see what lies ahead for Ben, now that he’s made his tough call. Until next time.

This piece was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.

One particular aspect of the holiday season that we all enjoy taking part in, is watching holiday movies with our family. Because there’s just something magical about sitting around and celebrating the wonder of the season, during the season itself, and that is why we plan our holiday viewing well before the season gets underway. Because we also know, we’ll be busy during that time, and such viewings really are that rare treat to keep us focused and sane during the season… and that’s why Apple TV+ made an important announcement today.

In that, they outright released their 2023 Holiday Family Programming Lineup. So, everyone can get a head start on planning what they want to watch in between family dinners, and trips to the mall and other stores for the perfect gift. And well, since you’re eager to get a head start on that planning, here is that lineup for you to peruse, courtesy of Apple TV+.

Apple TV+ celebrates the holidays this year with an expansive line-up of programming for the whole family. From the debut of the Apple Original special,“The Velveteen Rabbit,” based on the beloved children's classic written by Margery Williams, to the brand new holiday-themed film “Hannah Waddingham: Home For Christmas,” which features the Emmy Award-winning “Ted Lasso” actor; along with all-new holiday special episodes from “The Snoopy Show,” “Frog and Toad,” “Sago Mini Friends” and “Shape Island,” Apple TV+ is your home to celebrate the season. 
 
Apple TV+ will also provide special free windows to stream iconic holiday specials from Mendelson/Melendez Productions and Peanuts Worldwide. “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving,” celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, will be available for all to see Saturday, November 18 through Sunday, November 19 and “A Charlie Brown Christmas” will be available Saturday, December 16 through Sunday, December 17. This programming is available to subscribers now and every day. 
 
Viewers are invited to rediscover previously released holiday content including the hit musical comedy “Spirited,” starring Will Ferrell, Ryan Reynolds and Octavia Spencer, “Mariah Carey’s Magical Christmas Special,” “I Want a Dog for Christmas, Charlie Brown,” “The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse,” “Interrupting Chicken: A Chicken Carol Holiday Special," “Pretzel and the Puppies: Merry Muttgomery!"; “The Snoopy Show: Happiness is the Gift of Giving" Holiday Collection and “Fraggle Rock: Night of the Lights," all streaming now on Apple TV+. 
 
In premiere order, new and returning original specials and films to be featured in this holiday-themed collection on Apple TV+ include:

Celebrating 50 years of this Peanuts classic, Peppermint Patty invites everyone to Charlie Brown's for Thanksgiving, even though he's going to see his grandmother. Snoopy decides to cook his own version of a Thanksgiving meal with help from his friends.​

​“Hannah Waddingham: Home for Christmas,” debuts globally on November 22. In the musical event, Emmy-winning star Hannah Waddingham will ring in the holidays as she welcomes special guests for a musical extravaganza at the London Coliseum. The special is recorded live in front of an audience, and audiences around the world will be able to join Waddingham in celebrating her favorite time of year on Apple TV+ as she performs festive classics accompanied by a spectacular big band.
 
“Hannah Waddingham: Home for Christmas” is produced by Done + Dusted (“Beauty & The Beast: A 30th Celebration,” John Legend’s “A Legendary Christmas with John and Chrissy,” “The Little Mermaid Live!,” London Olympic opening and closing ceremonies), the same team behind Apple’s hit “Mariah Carey’s Magical Christmas Special.” Executive producers are Waddingham, Katy Mullan, Moira Ross, Raj Kapoor and Nick Todisco. The holiday special will be directed by BAFTA Award winner Hamish Hamilton (Oscars, Grammys, Super Bowl halftime show, London Olympics opening and closing ceremonies).

Based on the treasured, classic children’s book by Margery Williams, “The Velveteen Rabbit” celebrates the magic of unconditional love. When seven-year-old William receives a new favorite toy for Christmas, he discovers a lifelong friend and unlocks a world of magic. The 40-minute special from Apple TV+ and produced by Magic Light Pictures introduces Phoenix Laroche (“The Royal Nanny”) starring as William alongside an all-star cast including the voices of Alex Lawther (“Andor”) as the Velveteen Rabbit, Helena Bonham Carter (“The Crown,” “Harry Potter”) as Wise Horse, Nicola Coughlan (“Bridgerton”) as Playroom Fairy, Bethany Antonia (“House of Dragon”) as Female Rabbit, Lois Chimimba (“Still Up”) as Car, Paterson Joseph (“Vigil”) as King, Clive Rowe (“So Awkward”) as Lion, Nathaniel Parker (“The Inspector Lynley Mysteries”) as Male Rabbit, Tilly Vosburgh (“Inside Man”) as Momo as well as Samantha Colley (“Genius”) as Mother. Magic Light Pictures co-founder Martin Pope produces (Academy Award nominee “The Gruffalo” and BAFTA & International Emmy winning “Revolting Rhymes”) with a screenplay by Tom Bidwell, creator of the BAFTA- and International Emmy-nominated “My Mad Fat Diary” and the Oscar-nominated short “Wish 143.”​

​On November 22 on Apple TV+, go behind-the-scenes in “The Making of ‘Spirited,’” featuring never-before-seen rehearsal footage starring Will Ferrell, Ryan Reynolds and Octavia Spencer. Since its debut, “Spirited,” now streaming globally on Apple TV+, has received wide acclaim and has been hailed as “an instant Christmas classic” that is “hugely entertaining” with "show-stopping numbers reminiscent of the golden age of movie musicals.” 

In “Christmas Eve”, Frog and Toad are looking forward to spending the winter holiday together, but a last-minute errand into town sidetracks Frog, causing Toad to wonder if his best friend will make it home in time. An Apple TV+ original series based on the beloved book series by Arnold Lobel, “Frog and Toad” are not at all alike. Frog likes new adventures. Toad likes the comforts of home. Yet despite their differences, Frog and Toad are always there for each other—as best friends should be. The talented voice cast includes Academy Award winner Nat Faxon ("Our Flag Means Death," "The Connors") and Emmy Award nominee Kevin Michael Richardson ("The Simpsons," "Family Guy") as Frog and Toad, as well as appearances by Ron Funches ("Trolls"), Fortune Feimster ("Good Fortune"), Cole Escola ("At Home with Amy Sedaris"), Aparna Nancherla ("The Great North"), John Hodgman ("Up Here"), Yvette Nicole Brown ("Disenchanted"), Stephen Tobolowsky ("The Goldbergs"), Emmy Award nominee Tom Kenny ("SpongeBob SquarePants"), Selene Luna ("Coco," “Mayans M.C.”), Emmy Award nominee Margaret Cho (“Fire Island”) and Betsy Sodaro ("Duncanville," “Tiny Toons”). 

“Shape Island,” the acclaimed stop motion series for kids and families based on the internationally bestselling trilogy of Shapes picture books written by Mac Barnett and illustrated by Jon Klassen, is back on December 1 with an all-new holiday special titled “The Winter Blues.” The chilly season leaves Square feeling sad, so Circle and Triangle try to cheer him up by creating a new holiday: Yeti Night. The clever, funny and inspiring stop-motion animated series from Apple TV+ takes place on a charming island and invites viewers to join serious Square, intrepid Circle and tricky Triangle on their silly adventures as they dig up some fun, search for answers and build on their friendship — all while learning how to navigate each other’s differences. “Shape Island” shows kids that friendship can take many shapes. The series features the beloved familiar voices of Gideon Adlon (“Blockers”), Scott Adsit (“30 Rock”), Harvey Guillén (“What We Do in the Shadows”), and Yvette Nicole Brown (“Disenchanted”). “Shape Island” was co-created by Barnett and Klassen, who serve as executive producers alongside Bix Pix Entertainment’s Emmy Award-winners Kelli Bixler and Drew Hodges. Ryan Pequin serves as co-executive producer and head writer. 

In “Happiness is Holiday Traditions,” Snoopy searches for the perfect tree topper; Woodstock gets trapped in a window display; and Snoopy and Woodstock visit Spike for Christmas. An Apple TV+ original series from Peanuts and WildBrain, “The Snoopy Show” gives the world’s most iconic dog his close-up and dives into new adventures with the happy-dancing, high-flying, big-dreaming beagle, who’s joined by best friend Woodstock and the rest of the Peanuts gang. Josh Scherba, Anne Loi, Stephanie Betts, Paige Braddock, Craig Schulz and Mark Evestaff serve as executive producers. Alex Galatis serves as executive story editor.​

​Starting December 1, a sing-along version of the holiday hit musical comedy, “Spirited,” starring Will Ferrell, Ryan Reynolds and Octavia Spencer, will be available on Apple TV+. This sing-along version of the “instant Christmas classic” allows audiences to belt out fan favorite tunes composed by Academy Award-winners Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (“La La Land”) such as “Good Afternoon” and “Bringin’ Back Christmas.” 

​In this beloved Peanuts special, feeling down about the commercialism of Christmas, Charlie Brown becomes the director of the gang's holiday play. Can he overcome his friends’ preference for dancing over acting, find the “perfect” tree and discover the true meaning of Christmas?

In an all-new holiday special titled “New Year’s Steve,” Harvey makes a wish to stay awake until midnight when a firefly swoops in to help—and kickstarts a scavenger hunt for the whole crew. The series is an adorable nod to gratitude, featuring Harvey the floppy-eared dog and his best friends, Jinja the cat, Jack the rabbit, and Robin the bird. Along with a unique cast of residents as colorful as their own whimsical world, the four friends play, explore, imagine and celebrate daily in their joyful town of Sagoville. In each episode, Harvey and all his friends express their true thankfulness for all things, big and small, through optimism, kindness, preschool-friendly humor and unforgettable original songs! “Sago Mini Friends” is executive produced by Daytime Emmy Award nominees Jennifer Dodge (“PAW Patrol”), Ronnen Harary (“PAW Patrol”), Tone Thyne (“Wonder Pets!”), and Dustin Ferrer (“Esme & Roy”). Daytime Emmy Award nominees Laura Clunie (“PAW Patrol”), and Toni Stevens (“PAW Patrol”) serve as co-executive producers, with Chad Hicks (“Kingdom Force”) as series director. The series is produced by Daytime Emmy Award-nominated Spin Master Entertainment (“PAW Patrol”) and animated by 9 Story Media Group’s Emmy Award-winning studio Brown Bag Films. Dr. Sonja Lyubomirsky, distinguished professor of Psychology at the University of California, Riverside and expert in the science of happiness, serves as the gratitude expert on the series through Apple TV+’s changemakers initiative.​

Jim Henson’s fun-loving and musical Fraggles — Gobo, Red, Wembley, Mokey, Boober and new Fraggle friends — have returned in “Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock” Night of the Lights holiday special for all-new adventures about the magic that happens when we celebrate and care for our interconnected world. It’s the Night of the Lights, the most Fraggily holiday of the year, and the Rock is filled with songs and cheer. When Jamdolin (voiced by Emmy Award nominee Daveed Diggs, “Hamilton") encourages Wembley to make a special wish, the Fraggles head out on an adventure to find the brightest light and, maybe, the true meaning of the holiday.

In a special episode, “A Winter’s Cow Tale,” it’s Christmas Day and Rosalie is due to have her baby. Daisy can’t wait to be a big sister, but she’s disappointed when she can’t decorate the tree with her mama. Otis rolls into action to help Daisy decorate the tree and when the snow builds up too high, he plows his way through the snow, so Daisy can meet her new baby sister. Based on the popular books by New York Times best-selling author-illustrator Loren Long, this animated adventure series from 9 Story Media Group and Brown Bag Films welcomes young viewers to Long Hill Dairy Farm, home to Otis the Tractor (voiced by Griffin Robert Faulkner) and all his friends. Otis may be little, but he has a big heart. Whenever he sees a friend in need, he hits the brakes, asks how they're feeling, and rolls into action to help! The series is executive produced by Vince Commisso, Wendy Harris, author Loren Long, Darragh O’Connell, Angela C. Santomero, and Jane Startz.​

In “Jack’s Snow Globe Cafe,” when a snowstorm postpones the winter gazebo lighting, Jack and friends make the most of the moment with a “kindness cascade” at the café. Fan favorite series, “Hello, Jack! The Kindness Show” is co-created and executive produced by Jack McBrayer (“30 Rock,” “Phineas and Ferb,” “Wreck-It Ralph” franchise) and Angela C. Santomero (“Blue’s Clues,” “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood”). Jack is one of Clover Grove’s most thoughtful and caring residents, greeting everyone with kindness and humor. His ability to spread compassion, creativity and imagination inspires everyone in town to do the same. 

All Rerun wants from Santa is a dog, but his mother won’t let him have one. Spending time with Snoopy provides the perfect pick-me-up. But when Snoopy gets too busy to play with Rerun, they call in a substitute—Snoopy’s brother Spike.

In the holiday special, “A Chicken Carol,” Ebenezer Wolf decides to cancel the holidays so, Piper teams up with the Three Little Pigs and some ghostly friends to change his mind. This animated preschool series which debuts globally on Apple TV+ November 18 is based upon “Interrupting Chicken," the 2011 Caldecott Honor-winning book series written and illustrated by David Ezra Stein, introduces children to the joy of storytelling - starting with a young little chicken named Piper who has a habit of interrupting storytime! Every time Piper hears a story, she can’t help but jump in, ask questions and let her imagination run wild as she tries to fill in details, guess what happens next or insert herself in the middle of the action to help save the day. In partnership with Mercury Filmworks, “Interrupting Chicken” is executive produced by Ron Holsey, David Ezra Stein, Loris Kramer Lunsford, Clint Eland and Chantal Ling, and stars the voice talents of Sterling K. Brown. Dr. Lucy Calkins serves as reading and writing expert through the Apple TV+ changemaker initiative.​

“It’s Christmastime Again, Charlie Brown” is a collection of Christmas-themed vignettes, including: Charlie Brown tries to sell wreaths; Peppermint Patty worries about her Christmas book report; Charlie Brown tries to buy gloves for Peggy Jean; and the gang is in a Christmas play, where Sally worries about her single line and Peppermint Patty plays a sheep. “It’s Christmastime Again, Charlie Brown” is created and written by Charles M. Schulz. It is executive produced by Lee Mendelson, Bill Melendez serves as director and producer. 

Faced with a holiday cheer crisis, the North Pole knows there’s only one person who can save the day: Santa’s great friend Mariah Carey. The Queen of Christmas, Mariah Carey, creates a fabulous and star-studded spectacular to make the whole world merry! The special lineup also includes guest superstars Tiffany Haddish, Billy Eichner, Ariana Grande, Jennifer Hudson, Snoop Dogg, Jermaine Dupri, Misty Copeland and Mykal-Michelle Harris. Extra special appearances are also made by Carey’s twins, Moroccan and Monroe.​

​In “Merry Muttgomery!,” when a heavy snowfall jeopardizes the annual holiday festival, the pups find unique ways to celebrate with all the snowed-in dogs in the city. Based on the beloved canine from the classic book “Pretzel” by award-winning authors Margret and H.A. Rey, creators of “Curious George,” the original series follows a modern dog family led by stay-at-home dad Pretzel, his five adorable Dachshund puppies, and mom Greta, the mayor of Muttgomery. Together, the Doxies are always sniffing out ways to “make their bark” on their doggie hometown and make it a better place for their four-legged friends and neighbors. Pretzel and Greta encourage their pups to try to solve their own problems, often reminding them to “Get those PAWS UP!” whenever they face a challenge. Voice talent includes Mark Duplass, Nasim Pedrad, and many more. Hailing from HarperCollins Productions and animated by House of Cool and Saturday Animation, the series is executive produced by Caroline Fraser, Ricardo Curtis, Wes Lui and Steve Altiere; Jennifer Contrucci co-executive produces. Dr. Tony Wagner serves as the play, passion, purpose expert through the Apple TV+ changemaker initiative.

In “Happiness Is the Gift of Giving,” Snoopy adapts a Christmas poem to help Sally sleep, Charlie Brown makes gifts for his pals, and Snoopy finds waiting to open his presents a challenge. An Apple TV+ original series from Peanuts and WildBrain, “The Snoopy Show” gives the world’s most iconic dog his close-up and dives into new adventures with the happy-dancing, high-flying, big-dreaming beagle, who’s joined by best friend Woodstock and the rest of the Peanuts gang. Josh Scherba, Anne Loi, Stephanie Betts, Paige Braddock, Craig Schulz and Mark Evestaff serve as executive producers. Alex Galatis serves as story editor. 

​Each Christmas Eve, the Ghost of Christmas Present (Will Ferrell) selects one dark soul to be reformed by a visit from three spirits. But this season, he picked the wrong Scrooge. Clint Briggs (Ryan Reynolds) turns the tables on his ghostly host until Present finds himself reexamining his own past, present and future. For the first time, “A Christmas Carol” is told from the perspective of the ghosts in this hilarious musical twist on the classic Dickens tale. From Director Sean Anders ("Daddy’s Home,” "Instant Family”), written by Sean Anders and John Morris, with original songs by Oscar winners Benj Pasek and Justin Paul ("La La Land") and production numbers choreographed by Chloe Arnold (“The Late Late Show with James Corden”), this modern retelling is a sweet and spicy holiday treat.

In “The Way Home,” while helping Stillwater make treats to celebrate the winter solstice festival, the kids learn he plans to share some with a neighbor they’re wary of. Recognized with a Peabody Award for excellence in storytelling and for work that encourages empathy, “Stillwater” is a beautiful and engaging series for kids and families. It highlights mindfulness and has charmed young viewers with its tales of friendship while providing kids with a new perspective on the world around them. The series centers on siblings Karl, Addy, and Michael, who encounter everyday challenges – big and small – which sometimes feel insurmountable. Fortunately for these three, they have Stillwater, a wise panda, as their next-door neighbor. Through his example, stories and gentle humor, Stillwater gives the children a deeper understanding of their feelings as well as tools that help them face their own day-to-day challenges. “Stillwater” is based on the Scholastic book series Zen Shorts by Jon J Muth and is produced by Gaumont and Scholastic Entertainment. The series is executive produced by Sidonie Dumas, Christophe Riandee, Nicolas Atlan, Terry Kalagian, Iole Lucchese, Caitlin Friedman, Jef Kaminsky, and Rob Hoegee and features the voice talents of James Sie, Eva Ariel Binder, Tucker Chandler, and Judah Mackey.

​A story of kindness, friendship, courage and hope for viewers of all ages in a heart-warming, classically animated Academy Award winning film based on Charlie Mackesy’s book, “The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse.” The poignant and heartfelt journey follows the unlikely friendship of a boy, a mole, a fox and a horse traveling together in the boy’s search for home. The film, featuring Mackesy’s distinctive illustrations brought to life in full color with beautiful hand-drawn animation, stars BAFTA Award winner Tom Hollander (“The Night Manager”) as The Mole, Golden Globe and SAG Award winner Idris Elba (“Luther”) as The Fox, Golden Globe Award winner Gabriel Byrne (“All Things Bright and Beautiful”) as The Horse, and newcomer Jude Coward Nicoll as The Boy. Matthew Freud presents a Charlie Mackesy film, produced by Emmy Award winner and Academy Award nominee Cara Speller (“Love, Death & Robots,” “Pear Cider and Cigarettes,” “Rocket & Groot”) of NoneMore Productions and Emmy Award winner J.J. Abrams and Hannah Minghella of Bad Robot Productions. Directed by Peter Baynton (“The Tiger Who Came To Tea”) and Charlie Mackesy, the film is adapted from the original book in collaboration with Jon Croker (“Paddington 2”). The film is executive produced by Jony Ive and Academy Award nominee Woody Harrelson (“Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri”). Original score by composer Isobel Waller-Bridge, performed by the BBC Concert Orchestra and conducted by Geoff Alexander. 
 
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 earned 378 wins and 1,573 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, 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 $6.99 per month. For a limited time, customers who purchase and activate a new iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Mac or iPod touch can enjoy three months of Apple TV+ for free.*

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 308 of ‘The Morning Show’. To revisit the previous episode, click here. Also, this piece was written during the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike. Without the labor of the actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.
​
We live in an interesting time. Because now more than ever, our lives are under great scrutiny, whether we want to admit that or not. For the advent of social media, has indeed put a microscope over everything we say, and everything we do and that… has brought about some interesting results. Some are positive, such as when we are able to pour over an important moment or a person in real time, but it can be quite negative and stressful, largely because… we as a people are reactionary regarding social media. To the point where we fire off a thought in the moment, only for it to go viral and bring us unwanted attention because not everyone liked what we had to say, and of course… our lives are simply on display and that can be a pain for certain when people obsess over our moves.
​
But alas, that is the way of things in the 21st Century, and it is showing no signs of slowing down and well, what that part of life is like is top of mind today, because the next episode of The Morning Show on Apple TV+ took the time to explore it, and how difficult it can be to navigate when you’re in the public eye, and what it can push people to do when the pressure from it all is great enough, and ‘DNF’ accomplished such a feat, by picking up immediately after last week’s scandals hit the interwebs. For Chris’ post about what should be done with the court, went viral post haste and of course… the big news at UBA was that Alex and Paul Marks were suddenly a hot item, and well… it didn’t take long for those two segments to explore the theme in question.

For while Chris was getting praise off of the internet, as are people are wont to do when hiding behind a phone screen or monitor, they were also quick to offer threats and disdain and well, that put Chris in a weird place in this story. Wherein she was forced to throttle back as a journalist to keep the heat off of her, and where she felt lost and nervous when out and about. Simply because she didn’t know if anyone would make good on those threats. All of which served to remind us how a moment of emotion on the internet, can easily become a worst-case scenario for us. Regardless of good intention or spot on observation and of course, it was Alex that handled any further investigations into the matter.

Because she saw her world be turned upside down by the release of that photo. After all, the merger vote was on the horizon and here was the network, peddling commercials about a hard-hitting interview with someone that Alex was close to. Which made the edit difficult, and eventually prompted Alex to bump the interview to keep the scandal at bay. But even that didn’t help, because people called her out on her own show and the embarrassment of that led to Chip’s dismissal and disdain from Alex. The kind that prompted her to think deeply upon a new path, but more on that in a moment. Because we also need to talk about the fact that this episode correctly pointed out, that the internet is also forever and our secrets and bad moments are there to be found if someone looks hard enough, as Laura did here.
​
For she was concerned about Bradley and Cory’s close relationship, and that Bradley met his mom and well… that prompted her co-host to give her an easy way to figure out what was going on. Wherein all she had to do was search the web and search the hack and pull up text messages and emails and anything else she wanted and well, she did, and that led to shock for certain. Simply because, Laura was able to put two and two together regarding the whole mess involving Hal. Giving rise to a tough spot for Laura, since she was now privy to life-changing information and illegal doings and well, it is safe to say that this discovery could in fact bring about all kinds of trouble for UBA, and rightfully so, since it was a cover up, and it could also… accelerate Paul Marks’ new plans for the network. 

Because he too was done with all the drama and the cattiness and began to wonder… if by chance the time had come to take a legacy network and blow it up and reinvent it with someone like Alex at the helm. Which was a stunning idea to come forth, but one that Paul was serious about, and one he will find help with. Which sets the stage for a very ugly, and unsettling end to the third season. Where years of work and battles to make UBA a bastion for something better, may come to an end to pay for space travel and to bring about a rebirth that might be worthwhile, might not. But while we wait to see, we can celebrate one smart episode. One that really did properly ponder upon the realities of social media and how it puts people through the wringer when it wants and well, it offered no easy answers on how to avoid that, it simply advised that we take caution if there is a chance, we can go viral. Because like it or not, the whole world is watching us, and they’re ready to chime in. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 204 of ‘Harry Wild’. To revisit the previous episode, click here. Also, this piece was written during the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike. Without the labor of the actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.
​
One particular concept about people that continues to intrigue and confuse us, at the same time no less, is how the villains of the world, rarely see themselves as such. And what makes that so confusing for us, and yet compelling… is that it just seems impossible that an everyday person with feelings and an understanding and capacity for compassion… could cause such harm and yet believe they’ve done nothing wrong. But they do, for reasons that we don’t understand. Some of which could be related to mental health issues since that can force perception in a different light, but otherwise… it could be related to vastly different reasons, the kind that oddly enough… were explored in the next episode of Harry Wild on Acorn TV.

A feat that ‘Orla Wild’s Wicked Wicked Ways’ accomplished by bringing quite the ugly crime to Harry’s doorstep. For a smuggler was brutally killed in the woods nearby, and the police immediately believed it was the man’s business partner, Ben Finnegan, who committed the murder. Which put Ben in a panic, because he believed that he was going down for this when it should have been an assassin from an organized crime group that wanted their stolen diamonds returned, taking the blame, and well, since Ben knew Orla… he came to her for help. In turn, she went to Harry for help, off the books no less so her husband’s bid to become the new Chief Superintendent wouldn’t be threatened and well, the dive into the case, explored the theme in question.
​
Because as Harry and Fergus dug deeper into this mess, it became clear… that the assassin theory wasn’t adding up. In fact, even a visit to the more connected gentiles about, revealed that there was little involvement in the immediate, but it was coming and that gave Harry quite the idea. One where she basically smoked out the fact, that Ben did do it all along. Simply because he knew how to play the victim and manipulate people, because he was at his core, a true villain. A guy that cared little about anyone or anything but himself, and that… is what can also create a villain that doesn’t think he’s all that bad. Because when a man like Ben is that in love with himself and his schemes and the control, he has over people… he never sees himself as the heavy, but as the main character of the story.

Which would indeed explain why many baddies think so highly of themselves. But thankfully, Harry Wild and the real assassin put Ben down a peg or two, by adding at least one arrow shaped peg to Ben’s bottom, and that brought an end to the case and finally brought Orla and Harry closer. For they worked on the same side for once and Orla really came to understand Harry’s brilliance. Not to mention, that wasn’t the only character moment present here as well. Since Charlie Wild, did indeed get his promotion, putting him at the top of the department and hopefully, that will allow Harry to solve crimes at a higher rate now since dear old Charlie can clear the way. 

But not all of the character moments here were sunshine and rainbows. Because sadly, Fergus’ mom continued to do some weird things and even found a way to get into the house to grab whatever it is she’s been looking for some time now, and clearly… she has dark intentions after all, and that’s sad. Since Fergus was hoping for the best and deserves it as well. But while we wait to see what comes of that surprise, we can celebrate one delightful episode. One that really did offer up a unique perspective on the villain and toxic masculinity no less, since Ben did indeed exude that ‘alpha’ nonsense we’re all getting tired of, and well, once again, this kind of refreshing tale leaves us eager for more of this series. One that continues to grow its characters in a dynamic new light, while never losing sight of what makes this show so great. Until next time.

One particular aspect of our world that deeply fascinates us, is how good and concepts regarding good, and organizations meant to help others, are corrupted. Because time and time again, we’ve seen great ideas designed to help people, and honest folks that want to push that forward to the masses, transform before our eyes into something corrupt and dark and sometimes… deadly, and well… we simply don’t understand how good can become something so unsavory. But we are compelled to learn that why, and that is why we often look to situations where such matters happened, to satiate that knowledge and perhaps learn how to avoid it the next time it comes around, and well, it just so happens that Peacock is now host to a new documentary that is eager to offer us the knowledge we crave regarding such matters.
​
For Krishnas: Gurus. Karma. Murder. takes the time to explore the Hare Krishna movement. From its humble and hopeful beginnings in the late 1960s, a turbulent time in our world, to how an unsavory segment of it… thrived and embellished in corruption and evil acts well into the mid-1980s. Which presents us with a grand and sweeping story that engages the viewer deeply, simply because it gives us everything, we could ask for regarding that exploration we crave, in part by breaking our hearts. Since the purity of the movement is indeed put on display here, courtesy of a grand examination of what the movement stood for/stands for and how it resonated with people then and resonates with them now, before showing us… what corrupts something so pure. 

Which as it turns out… relates to the fact that sometimes that which is great, and that which is pure… calls to the wrong kind of people. People that are at their core, broken and eager to find something external to fix them when in fact, the external cannot. Which can introduce unstable elements into something pure like this movement and well… that’s where this documentary truly shines. Since it exposes how people with that mindset, moved to the top of the ranks and seized power not because they wanted to better mankind, but to better themselves and could not. So, they instead enacted their agendas in the hopes of finding that fix and let power corrupt. Which brings forth some harrowing and moving moments, and at times, deeply disturbing ones as well. Since some of the evil these men took part in, is devastating to say the least.

But what matters more, is that no stone is left unturned here. For the why behind every decision is put on display in this documentary through incredible interviews and incredible work from the production team. Giving rise to a complete understanding about how power, ego, and a need to find personal peace without doing the real work to find it, are the core elements that corrupt good things, and how that corruption can give rise to incredible damage. Which may make it seem as though this documentary is bleak in nature and ends as dark as the acts that took place at the holy site known as New Vindaban. But that is where this series surprises us. Because it also points out, that the darkness in such matters can be lifted and good can thrive again, provided that justice comes into play and that people do stand tall when that corruption arrives. 

All of which makes, for a documentary that offers something for everyone. For it you’re into true crime stories, you have that here, not to mention… if you’re big on education through documentaries, you have that too. After all, this is a case that some might not be familiar with, and the same goes for the Hare Krishna movement, but we are all well-educated on all of that by the end of this documentary. But above all, this tells a very powerful and human story. Of people that wanted more in this life and struggled along the way, and still found a way to prevail, to rise above the darkness. All because they stayed strong and fought those who tried to sully purity, and well in the end, this is a must-watch documentary. For it truly chronicles something we genuinely fear and see in our world right now, and gives us hope that it too shall pass, by pointing out: that which corrupts, can never last.