Please enjoy this exclusive sneak peek, and synopsis of the Keke Wyatt’s World, which airs on WE tv later tonight!
 
In “Work-Life Balance,” Keke and Drae hash things out and get back to work. Keke rehearses for a big show, but runs into trouble. At home, Kemar feels bullied by his own family, and paramedics arrive to take Ke’Zyah back to the hospital after he stops breathing.
 
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 513 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.
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There are a great many reasons that people fell in love with the NBC series, Magnum P.I. For some, it was the sheer fact that an iconic series was being resurrected and handled in a quality manner. Since this iteration of Thomas Magnum’s adventures do indeed hold a flame to the original series. For others, the action and adventure and beautiful visuals of Hawaii are hard to pass up. But of the many reasons that people have tuned in faithfully for the past five season, there are a couple that we all share in. In that, we all love the show’s dynamic and realistic characters, and we love the show’s outright humanity. For this really is a series that speaks to our better angels and what makes humanity worth celebrating and well… those latter aspects of the show are top of mind today, for they were once again on display during last night’s episode of the show.
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For ‘Appetite for Danger’ showcased an investigation that was about helping people in trouble out and in between that… were some beautiful moments with the rest of the characters. In fact, let’s talk about those now. Because they were so uplifting and so wondrous. Such as how… Rick used the little league team that T.C. coached, to help T.C. find internal strength again. Because he was struggling to get some of his physical therapy done and he needed a real boost and Rick made that happen. By having the team cheer him on and inspire him the way he inspired them, and for his efforts… T.C. made great progress. Courtesy of a plot that reminded us of what we can accomplish when those we care about support us, and how important it is that we step in and help our friends when they are in need.

But the majesty of this story didn’t end there. For Kumu and Cade were conducting interviews regarding the Japanese Internment Camps that the United States set up during World War II, to preserve history and in this case, help a man find peace. For dear George told his heartbreaking story about how his Japanese American family was rounded up mere days after the Day of Infamy and put into those very camps. Wherein he lost track of his sister, and never saw her again, and he also spoke to how he put the pieces of his life back together after being seen as an enemy by the very nation he was a citizen of. And what he said about his sister impacted Cade deeply and he worked to find George’s sister, and the extended family George never knew… to give him that closure. Which made for a powerful ending to this plot, one that really did speak to how beauty can come out of tragedy, when we as a people inject kindness into the mix. 

Yet, the show still had more uplifting stuff to send our way, courtesy of this week’s big case. Because Thomas and Juliet were hired to find out why a star chef named Kanoa had suddenly disappeared from the kitchen at one of Hawaii’s most prestigious restaurants. Which meant our heroes needed Gordon to help out as an interim chef to quietly get intelligence on Konoa’s activities inside and outside of work. To paint a picture of the man and to see what kind of trouble he found and/or caused. As it turned out, there was little to show that Konoa had done anything wrong, he was just missing, and this was indeed out of character for a man that really did take great pride in his work. Which forced Magnum and Higgins to widen the net and speak to other people he knew and that… brought forth quite the uncomfortable surprise for this duo. 
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In that, people Konoa knew were being kidnapped and taken to heaven knows where, and thanks to Gordon, they were able to trace and track a car that picked up Konoa’s girlfriend to a big event at the museum. Wherein they figured out what happened to Konoa. In that… he was ‘recruited’ by a shockingly well-organized group of thieves. Who posed as caterers and used top-name local chefs (at gunpoint) to gain access to places to rob, and once they had full access, they would knock the attendees out, steal everything that wasn’t nailed down and move onto their next target. But of course, this group didn’t count on Thomas Magnum and Juliet Higgins coming to their latest event, and that was bad news for them. Since they were able to neutralize the ring and save a good man that was caught up in the middle of a mess that wasn’t his doing.

Which is a plot that spoke deeply to the importance of just being there for people in need and going the extra mile to help them. Because that can do so much, especially to someone who is struggling and in danger and well, all of these elements made for one incredible episode. One that really did tug at our heartstrings and left us feeling pretty good about our day when all is said and done. Because you cannot go wrong with a story that showcases the best of us and what we can do, and it was just lovely to see the series in touch with its core roots again, and that could not have come at a better time. Since it helps to remind us perhaps one last time, why we love this show and how much we will miss it, and it will be interesting to see what other ‘greatest hits’ and surprises this show sends our way, as we continue our farewell tour of this magnificent and fulfilling series. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 203 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.
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One unfortunate truth about life that we learn when we are facing difficult times, is that the world doesn’t stop turning while we are struggling. Bills still have to get paid; the car still needs gas, and we have to work to make those things happen. Which means we have no choice… but to push ahead while our hearts ache or while our soul’s scream. Doesn’t make it right in the slightest. In fact, it’s downright dumb that we live in a world where the almighty dollar takes precedence over healing, but for now… that is the way of things. Which means we have to make the most of it and find ways to use our daily duties to help us work through things and never was that truth more evident than during this week’s episode of Quantum Leap on NBC.
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But it sure didn’t seem as though that was going to be the case in ‘Closure Encounters’. Since this particular tale transported Ben to 1949. Wherein he assumed the identity of a Federal Agent that was assigned to Project Sign, a project designed to investigate UFO activity in the Southwestern United States in that era, to indeed find out if a strange incident involving a woman named Melanie Morgan, and her now comatose friend, Carrie, was related to UFO and extraterrestrial activity or some Earth-bound nonsense, and well… for a time… Ben and Addison could not tell which was really the case. For they encountered some odd sights in the nearby area, the kind that saw Ben lose some time and involved bright lights and strange technology that briefly blocked Addison from helping. But a surprise mark on Ben’s body when he came to from that lost time… led to an answer regarding the mystery.

In that, a broke tycoon, one that ran the town with his money and his bravado, was coming up short and well… that motivated him to find a way to get more bread in the weirdest way imaginable. Which in this instance, involved letting the U.S. government onto his land to build a military base. One that was designed to work on experimental flight technology and other experimental gear. And their saucer shaped vessel… was the cause of everyone’s problems and well, in order to put an end to the speculation and the troubles in this town… Ben and the local sheriff… were able to get them to move to a new facility, a place known as Area 51… to conduct their experiments. A move that brought peace to the town and also saved Melanie from trouble. For Carrie’s dad, that very tycoon… thought Melanie had made this whole thing up and hurt his daughter on purpose and wanted her behind bars. But the truth exonerated her and Ben… was off to his next assignment, after offering up one last bit of help to the town’s local waitress.

But while that just seems like a standard Quantum Leap story, one that offered up a spooky little alien twist for the season… make no mistake about it… there was distress for Ben in this tale. The kind that spoke to a broken heart. Because he was processing the reality that Addison ‘buried’ him in 2022/2023 and that she was opening her heart to someone else, and that made this mission hard for him, and it pushed him to really dive deep into Melanie’s struggles. All because… of that central theme. Because despite hurting and needing time to process so much, the leaps continued, and Ben still had to save lives and he truly felt the need to deeply immerse himself in this leap and in doing the right thing… to help him feel something more than the ache and confusion that were swirling about his heart and mind, and help him to work through such matters, as life goes, and well… all of these elements made for one amazing episode.

Because it featured a delightful mystery for Ben and Addison to uncover, one that is timely in nature since UFOs have been all over the news this year, as have the little green men that pilot them. Plus, you can never go wrong with moments that are relatable and Ben handled that here. Because we’ve been in his shoes, and we’ve done what he did here. Which is to bury ourselves in work and/or the mundane to not have to feel our feels when they are overwhelming and… to try and work them through other means. But for now, it is off to the next leap, where Ben will undoubtedly try to use good deeds to heal. But of course, that does leave us wondering… how long he can keep that up. Because like it or not… eventually we have to resolve what’s eating at us and that will be no easy task for Ben. Especially when that which he has to face, is the person he deeply loves and often serves as his only guide through time and his only tether to home. Until next time.

It is definitely safe to say that 2023 has been the year of Bluey. For this family of lovable heelers simply took over the airwaves in 2023, courtesy of word of mouth regarding a series that is quite frankly… brilliant in so many ways. Since this magical show not only entertains kids through and through and offers amazing lessons about growing up, but it has something for everyone, and there are themes and moments that resonate with adults and parents as well. So, it should come as no surprise that everyone wants to settle in and enjoy the wonder of this series, especially fresh stories about this amazing family. 

Of course, there haven’t been any new episodes since the summer marathon, but that… is about to change. For earlier today, Disney announced that new episodes of Bluey will be making their debut on Disney Channel and Disney Junior on November 6, 2023. Giving all of you loyal fans new adventures that will tickle your funny bone and move you emotionally and well to make sure you’re properly prepared for the wonders ahead, here are all the details regarding those new episodes, courtesy of Disney.
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‘After a chart-topping debut on Disney+ earlier this year, ten episodes of BLUEY will make their network premiere on Disney Junior and Disney Channel, with one new episode premiering each weekday from Monday, November 6th through Friday, November 17th at 7:30 AM ET / PT, with encores airing throughout each day.
 
BLUEY is the year’s #1 most-watched series for preschoolers and kids in the U.S.* The ten episodes from BLUEY’s third season will feature Bluey, Bingo, Mum and Dad, as well as the return of fan-favorites Unicorse (in “Puppets”) and the Grannies (in “Granny Mobile”). These ten episodes also include cameos from well-known BLUEY fans including Lin-Manuel Miranda, who appears as a talking horse in the episode “Stories,” and Rose Byrne, who voices Aunt Brandy in “Onesies.” 

BLUEY first premiered in Australia on ABC Kids in 2018 and later premiered to U.S. audiences across Disney Channel, Disney Junior and Disney+. Seasons 1-3 of BLUEY are streaming now on Disney+, and available on Disney Channel and Disney Junior. Additional episodes from season three will debut on Disney+, Disney Junior and Disney Channel in 2024.
 
*Source: Nielsen Media Research Data for time spent viewing on combined linear networks and streaming, versus all programs tracked by Nielsen. (12/26/22-6/25/23; L+7 for Linear, Live for Streaming.
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ABOUT BLUEY
Bluey is created and written by Joe Brumm and produced by the multiple Emmy® Award-winning Ludo Studio for the Australian Broadcasting Corporation and BBC Studios Kids & Family.
 
Bluey is a loveable, inexhaustible, Blue Heeler dog, who lives with her Mum, Dad and her little sister, Bingo. Like every kid her age, the thing Bluey likes to do best is play games. Bluey uses her limitless energy to play games that unfold in unpredictable and hilarious ways bringing her family and the whole neighborhood into her world of fun.
 
Bluey is produced by Emmy® Award-winning Ludo Studio for ABC KIDS (Australia) and co-commissioned by ABC Children’s and BBC Studios Kids & Family. Financed in association with Screen Australia, Bluey is proudly 100% created, written, animated, and post produced in Brisbane Queensland, Australia, with funding from the Queensland Government through Screen Queensland and the Australian Government.
 
ABOUT LUDO STUDIO
Ludo Studio is a BAFTA, multi-Emmy® and Logie award-winning Australian studio that creates and produces original scripted drama, animation and digital stories that are authored by incredible local talent, distributed globally and loved by audiences everywhere.
ludostudio.com.au
 
ABOUT DISNEY BRANDED TELEVISION
Disney Branded Television encompasses the creative storytellers and production and content marketing teams responsible for Disney-branded television series, movies and other programming spanning live-action, animated and unscripted formats. The group fuels the Disney+ streaming platform and Disney Channel, Disney XD and Disney Junior linear networks with content geared toward kids, tweens, teens and families, with stories that are imaginative, aspirational and reflective of their world and experiences.’

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Series Premiere of ‘True Crime Story: Citizen Detective’.
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We like to believe that if by chance we are wronged in this life by another human being, we can receive justice through the channels that are available to us. Where the police will investigate swiftly and promptly to make an arrest and where the courts will provide due process, so that person can face justice for their crimes and so we can be whole again. And we hold to that belief, because we have seen the judicial system in our country, do just that time and time again and give people everything they need to heal when crime finds its way into their lives. But while that provides us with a sense of safety and comfort, what’s unfortunate… is that sometimes the system fails its citizens. 

It could be because there was a mistake made in the arrest and investigation process or something awful happened in court that prompted the case to be thrown out, or the case wasn’t strong enough, prompting a jury to find the defendant ‘not guilty’ so they can walk free. Or perhaps… nothing comes forth, period, because the police have limited resources or believe they have bigger fish to fry. But regardless of the reason, not everyone gets justice in this nation and that leaves one to wonder… what then do people do when they know they’ve been wronged but cannot rely upon the system? Well for some, that means taking the whole matter into their own hands and finding a way to bring someone to justice, the right way, without the help of traditional channels, and believe it or not… these folks find success.

In fact, their stories are so fascinating and so unique that SundanceTV has complied several for their new series, True Crime: Citizen Detective, and for its series premiere, the show opted to showcase how one family overcame incredible adversity to bring justice forth for one of their own. For ‘The Mays Family’ was surprised when Christy Mays was found dead by her husband Jason, under circumstances that made little sense. For she was healthy and happy, just had a baby, and died out of the blue, of what was revealed to be a heroin overdose no less… and that too made little sense. For Christy was not known for using drugs, in the slightest, and well… that prompted her family to push for a criminal investigation since the circumstances were so incredibly suspicious and well… the police in their town… did nothing to assuage their concerns.

They simply saw it as a drug statistic and that pushed the family… to dig in on their own, and what they learned was awful. In that, Jason was in fact, a drug user and he often talked about ending the life of his wife to collect the insurance money he would be entitled to, and well… the family thought those clues would be enough to finally get him prosecuted. But even then, the case was of no concern. So, years later, with evidence in hand… the family decided the best way to handle this was to file a civil case. One that would force an admission from guilt from Jason or force the whole thing to a long-winded trial they were willing to sit through and shockingly… Jason agreed to finally fess up and admit he caused harm. Giving this family the peace, they needed, and justice for Cathy at last. All because… they took matters into their own hands. 

For the police really did disappoint in this story, and it was unfortunate to hear that there wasn’t an arrest until Jason put a confession to paper. But alas, that was the situation that the Mays family encountered, and they are proof positive that when patience comes into play and discipline and hard work are instilled into an endgame of earning justice… wonders can be accomplished. Granted that shouldn’t have to come into play, law enforcement should be the ones stepping in. But this was a fine reminder of how some people slip through the cracks of the system and how they are left with no choice but to burden themselves with the difficulty of an investigation. And truly, it will be interesting to see in the weeks to come what other good citizens ran into such failures and how they overcame them to find justice for the fallen and for themselves. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 209 of ‘Almost Paradise’. 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.
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It wasn’t that long ago, that we talked at length about how wonderful it was that Alex Walker finally had a true foil to face off against in the Amazon Freevee series, Almost Paradise. For every great hero needs an equally as great villain to push them and help them grow and well… Jace Vargas certainly fits that mold. Since he is the anthesis to everything Alex stands for. But while it was nice to be introduced to him and come to understand that he would be a thorn in Alex’s side, he more or less faded from sight after ‘Deus Ex-Wife Machina’. As though he would be saved for another season of storytelling. Which isn’t a bad thing by any means. But as it turns out, his absence was nothing more than a brilliant storytelling move. So that his return… would serve as the perfect surprise.
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In fact, that came out way in the next episode of this series, but only after we found ourselves fooled by the story at hand in ‘Old Times’. For this particular story initially showed no signs of Jace and his special brand of evil. Instead, this appeared to be a morality tale about the line that needs to exist between investigators and their personal lives, and what it means to do right when a great evil is discovered. A feat this story accomplished by way of an unsettling murder that took place at the Villegas Hotel and Casino. Because Ann wanted Alex to take no part in this case, for she felt in this instance, he would be too close to it emotionally, especially since this duo were growing closer by the day. But Alex’s sense for justice, pushed him to cross the line and learn what he needed to, and that brought forth quite the surprise.

In that, it appeared that a hitman that Alex knew of, that once operated in Texas in the name of organized crime, was responsible for this murder. Not to mention, a guest that resembled him perfectly was staying at the hotel. Which prompted Alex to gather evidence to prove this guest was the monster in question, which he did. But alas that newly exposed evil turned upon him and nearly killed him, and only then did we learn that Jace was behind all of this and got to Ann to keep the plan to have a hitman take out Alex Walker as quiet as can be. But more on that in a moment. Because this sequence did in fact, speak to how there needs to be boundaries for an investigator and their work, since Alex’s heart did blur the line here and that got him in trouble, and this story did speak volumes to how anyone out there should stand tall and make sure a great evil gets its due when it is discovered roaming around in the world.

But all that aside, let’s be honest… the fact the Vargas was behind this… was quite the epic reveal. One that spoke to his strength as a villain. After all, it takes incredible power to be able to reach from beyond a jail cell to coordinate this kind of attack and this kind of plan, and he has that. Which is huge and not to mention, he was introduced here in just the most delicious and classic way imaginable. In fact, one could even say that his entrance in this story, rivaled that of any villain that James Bond has ever faced off against. Because it was just that devilishly delightful through and through and of course… it set the stage for something we’ve all been wanting since Jace came into the picture in this story. Specifically, a showdown at last between our hero, and a monster that is clearly ready to do whatever it takes to torment him.

For Jace did promise that this was only the beginning of trouble to come and that… and everything else that preceded it, made for one delightful episode. One that offered up other surprises in addition to Jace’s return. Since we came to learn here that Kai, has legitimate feelings for Alex and their inability to express them here through holding back and unfortunate circumstances, might cost them a chance at real love. Since Kai also got the job in Manila. All of which of course, means this writer needs to hit play on the next episode post haste. To see, what will become of the newfound feelings this duo harbor and see how Alex will respond to Jace’s brutal challenge, and defeat him along the way, since that’s what a good hero does, and above all… to bear witness to what should be an amazing conclusion to a brilliant year of storytelling. For the next episode is also, the season two finale, and if the setup here is any indicator, it’s going to be epic for certain. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 307 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 movie being covered here wouldn’t exist.
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There was a time where mergers and buyouts for companies, pretty much bored the American public. Because they were nothing more to us than a business transaction, that impacted people in the business world, so there was nothing better to do than go about one’s business. But the past couple of years have seen a shift regarding our attention to such matters. For mergers and acquisitions have become messy and brutal in nature. For now, there are real worries that jobs for good, hard-working people will be lost in such moves and of course, the disdain for the rich and their greedy and out of touch ways… has only added to our desire to suddenly know more about mergers.
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Especially following Elon Musk’s purchase of Twitter. Since he treated it like a toy instead of the valuable news resource it is, and he of course… cast out important people that helped the service thrive and we saw their futures impacted by the weirdness of the whole thing, and well… now we care. Now we want to know how these changes impact lives and what it really means to have someone just buy a company and upend its structure and well… it just so happens that the next episode of The Morning Show on Apple TV+ opted to ponder upon such matters. By having ‘Strict Scrutiny’ explore what the Hyperion and UBA Merger was doing to some of the key individuals involved. Such as Paul Marks himself. 

For he came to learn in this tale that putting himself out there in every way imaginable, led to violations of privacy. Because that is something the people crave, hot tea about people that are in the news and well… that is on the horizon for Paul in this story. Because despite he and Alex’s best efforts to keep their burning love affair a secret, pictures were taken of the two them indulging in their emotions, and The Vault, the greasy rag that outed Bradley simply because it could, was ready to publish them, and despite Paul’s efforts to quell that… he was unable to. Giving rise to the reality that in the digital age, nothing is a secret and anyone who wants to be involved in a high-profile merger needs to be prepared for that and the fallout.

Yet, while that was fascinating to see play out and led to quite an understanding of how much chemistry Paul and Alex share… there were more stories to be told regarding how a merger can impact someone, one of which… involved Stella. For she poured over the offer that Paul prepared for her, and that put her at a difficult crossroads. For while she understood the need for change… she also understood that dumping Cory to take over his spot, would have a profound impact upon his and her own psyche. Something she wasn’t fully sure she could live with, but she also had to make a move on the deal because it was her or Cory and well… kudos to this segment of the story for pointing out that the wonder of change isn’t always celebrated in such matters. Since some understand that change in this vein will hurt some individuals deeply, because they are in fact… not products or cogs in the wheel… but people.
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In fact, that is why Cory’s journey in this story was so significant. Because for the first time ever in this series, we really came to see him in a genuinely vulnerable light. For Cory has made every effort to just be the businessman and move about with purpose in everything he does. But here, a request to have his mother stand down from helping him with the merger, brought him home, with Bradley no less. Wherein we gained great insight into what made Cory into the go-getter he is and why he chooses to keep so many at bay. All of which relates to his family life, and the ups and downs it caused him and it was fascinating to learn that about him and really see him as a person for a change and not a slick executive that just manifests everything, and it was equally as satisfying… to see how that influenced the end of this story. Wherein we saw Cory stand up in a far more aggressive manner than usual when Stella told him the truth. As though UBA was more to him than a chance to do something cool as implied in season one, and that it actually meant a lot to him to shepherd this network and this deal.

But what mattered more, is that his journey truly hammered home that people are at the center of these deals, who don’t want to lose everything and want to finish what they started. Which added new perspective to such matters and also informed us… that mergers are a scary business for those involved. Filled with uncertainty and worry, and of course… stress. Because it means that change is coming, and not all of it will be good. If anything, this was just a fascinating and unique story when all is said and done. One that really made a grand effort to offer perspective on a topic we are quite curious about now, all while offering more historical context as well with the drop of the Roe v. Wade ruling in the midst of a party, where Chris made a bold but understandable move that reflected all of our feelings on that terrible ruling. Plus, it set the stage for one heck of an end to the season. Wherein Cory and others… will fight to make this merger fair in an era where money talks and rich dudes rule the roost. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 203 of ‘Harry Wild’. To revisit the Season Two Premiere, clickhere. Also, this piece was written during the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike. Without the labor of the actors currently on strike, the movie being covered here wouldn’t exist.
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If there is one particular aspect of the human condition that continues to confuse us and fascinate us all at once… it would be why people commit to the act of murder. For we are the most evolved species on the planet, and we do have an understanding of what is right and what is wrong, and the impact that our actions have upon one another, and what it means to lose someone close to us. Which should be more than enough to motivate us to never want to cause that kind of harm. But people still do, and often, and we pour over the reasons for their heinous actions and still receive no understanding. Despite pondering upon every angle in every way. But perhaps what we truly fail to understand… is that the answer to our deep-rooted question might be far simpler than we give it credit. That some fundamental changes to who we are… could perhaps put an end to such darkness.
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At least, that’s the theory that the next episode of Harry Wild on Acorn TV poses. For ‘A Botox a Day Keeps the Mortician Away’ presented Harry and Fergus with a heartbreaking murder case. One that saw a matron of honor die in a shocking manner. For she was poisoned at a bachelorette party at a spa, and well… since the deceased was the only one that came down ill… the bride had to know why this happened and who did it. To have closure, and so the wedding could go off without this hanging over it. Which brought forth struggles for Fergus and Harry, simply because… there was little to go off of in this case, and even turning to one of the estheticians at the spa as a suspect, proved to be fruitless. For there was no malice to be found there, just another victim when the killer decided to turn their attention that way.

Which meant, Harry had to really think outside of the box to solve this case and well, in looking at the dynamic of the wedding party, she began to suspect that something unique had occurred between several of them, that might have motivated something dark, and she was right. For the bride’s bestie was outed by the matron of honor years ago, and only recently learned of this truth. And her life was so badly impacted by having her sexuality announced in a manner without her control, that she felt the only way to be whole again… was to take a life. All of which spoke to a simple solution that could have avoided all of this. In that, had the matron of honor just… been kind and communicative and respectful, none of this would have happened.

Ergo… those are likely the keys to stopping a lot of the cruelty we see in this world. For if respect came into play for the lives of others in every sense, revenge and justice would not be an option. And if respect and thoughtfulness were used more often, there would be no need to worry about a heat of the moment reaction. Which of course… might be easier said than done, since there is a level of emotional maturity that we as a species might not have reached yet to make that the norm. But we can of course… do more in the interim, and if we can be kind every day, and use our words and be respectful toward others… perhaps that can in fact start a movement that slowly enacts that change and makes the world a better place.

If anything, that was quite the poignant message to find in this story, but a welcome one none the less. Especially in this moment, when the world is burning with fury. And really that message and this case just goes to show that this series really is on a different level than most crime stories, since it does look at aspects of the human condition that no other crime story will. Since that kind of thoughtfulness is rare in this genre, but this show has no problem thinking in such terms and that made for one powerful episode. One that will stay with us for some time with its messaging, and because it also set the stage for other important events down the line. Since we once again are curious as to what Fergus’ mother actually wants courtesy of her odd behavior here, and the only way to find out… and to see what amazing lessons are ahead… is to patiently wait for the next chapter of this thoughtful and delightful series. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 207 of ‘Power Book IV: Force’. 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.
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For the most part, crime shows are big on building up tension right near the end of the season. Simply because, that is indeed the right time to wow the audience and prepare them for a powerhouse finale. The kind that they cannot wait to take part in. Also, by going this route, there’s no drag out, no chance to let certain storylines hang on for too long. This formula simply brings forth a brisk and powerful story that is memorable and entertaining and well… it has truly become a staple of the industry. One that the Power Universe has been working to shatter as the years roll on. Because every chapter in this saga… has no qualms with building up tension for weeks on end, and in doing so… these shows are proving that going this route, would in fact… do more for the genre. 
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Take Power Book IV: Force for instance. Which has in the past seven weeks, been slowly turning up the temperature on everything happening in Chicago. After all, we’ve been privy to the collapse of the Flynn Drug Empire, and how that has brought forth a mad dash for control of the Windy City. To the point where enemies are digging in, loyalties are being tested and danger lurks everywhere, for everyone, and that has put us on the edge of our seats and prompted us to pick sides and ponder upon what surprises lie ahead. All of which is designed to inform the industry, that going this route can invest an audience like never before and really engage them in a detailed manner and well… with only a handful of episodes left for us to enjoy in season two, clearly the show is only going to turn up the heat. As evidenced by this week’s new episode.

For ‘Chicago Is Heating Up!’ immediately picked up following the Serbian Mob’s outright urban war campaign against CBI in the projects and well, their desire to show Tommy Egan who they think is in charge, created more problems for everyone. Because just like that, law enforcement was under a great deal of pressure to bring all of this fighting to an end, and rightfully so. After all, innocent lives were at stake in the name of the game and that was unacceptable and that turned the heat up on Vic, at the worst possible time. Because now the demand was that Tommy Egan go under heavy surveillance with his help, and that he wear tracking gear and snitch gear, which would endanger his life, especially now that Mister Egan and company were about to embark upon the bravest part of their mission to date. Which was to unify everyone under the CBI banner.

Which meant that Vic had to nervously watch over his shoulder as Tommy and Diamond met with the city’s gangs. Because the last thing he needed was to reveal a clue that he was doing something for the state and the feds, or that he had these gang members on camera talking about their business. Not to mention, the men that Tommy was getting close to, were the kind of men that no one in this town should double cross. Which put him in a state of constant fear and worry, and it didn’t help that Tommy was beginning to spot the tails and suspect that Vic might be working with the law. All of which boiled over in a terrible manner at the end of this tale, wherein Vic had to make a powerful choice to see tomorrow or see his plans for vengeance through and well, his decision put him in an even tougher spot for certain. One that may bring hell down upon him. 

But that plot thread was nothing more, that a symptom of the disease. Because Chicago was indeed smoldering in this tale and bigger problems were brewing all over town. For instance, Shanti decided now was the time to flex up and double her take with Claudia’s weak but effective plans to fill the void. All of which put Jenard and his standing at risk. Since he needed everything to be even keel with big moves taking place, a fact that even Shanti sent his way. But that paper is irresistible, and she did indeed up her game and risk it all by working with Claudia to start moving pills in the private clubs around town. A move that now puts her standing with CBI on edge, whether she knows it or not, and that just added to the tension of this tale.
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In fact, this tale was so spicy, that even the most mundane moments had some kind of heat surrounding them. After all, Diamond was under fire here from his parole officer to do more within the community and renounce his past, which put him at light odds with Tommy and kept him off of the pulse of the business. Which made him nervous and unsettled because it once again put him at a crossroads. Not to mention, Tommy and Mireya’s budding relationship, which should have been a bright spot for both of them… was quickly weaponized by Jenard when he felt the need to flex up upon Tommy. Giving rise to real worry and real concern over Tommy’s safety regarding Miguel, and that concern only grew as well. Mainly because of Tommy’s machinations.

Because he also… managed to get Miguel to cut off the Serbian Mob. By pointing out the gross error of their ways and by poking the bear. Since Miguel did not forget about the robbery that supposedly the Serbians were behind. But while that made it seem as though Tommy’s plans would help him close ranks with minimal fuss, he wasn’t prepared for all the end arounds that Miguel planned. Because Miguel also saw this as a chance to really solidify his standing within the cartel and show Che that he could accomplish wonders on the streets, and he planned his own meeting with one of the gangs that Tommy already locked up and that… will bring about trouble as well. Since Miguel will undoubtedly feel betrayed and played, and that, combined with the truth about where Mireya happens to be spending her spare time, could bring about real trouble.

All of which worked to bring together, an exhausting episode, and that is absolutely a compliment. Because this whole episode was pure tension through and through, the kind that made the air hang heavy in our living rooms and well, how can you go wrong with that? Because clearly, this season is building to something shockingly epic, and episodes like this create powerful curiosity for the audience. Because now we are dying to know, what will happen when this tension explodes and who will make it out of this season alive since it has held nothing back regarding the darkest aspect of all of the game. All because, this series opted to let loose with tension and explore what it can do a for a story, and it deserves a round of applause for showcasing how tension can in fact, help a crime drama through and through by exciting and engaging its fans, because we are truly hanging on tooth and nail at this point and we won’t rest until we see this through, good or bad. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 202 of ‘Loki’. To revisit the Season Two Premiere, 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.
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It is definitely safe to say, that fans of the magnificent Disney+ series, Loki, walked away from the season two premiere with a sense of unease. Simply because there was chaos everywhere to be found at the TVA. With agents moving hurriedly through the various timelines that now existed to find one person and one person alone, Sylvie. For despite Loki’s best efforts to take the heat off of Sylvie for everything that transpired last season, she was the mark for the TVA loyal and they needed someone to pay for the truth about their lives and that likely meant that ugly days were ahead. The kind that would test Loki and Mobius and the TVA like never before and well… we were right to feel that unease. Simply because the next episode in this magnificent show, went to some supremely unpleasant places.
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For ‘Breaking Brad’ was a story that saw Loki and Mobius race through the timeline to find Sylvie and protect her and stop those fallen TVA agents from doing anything rash, and that brought them to 1977 in the prime timeline… to hunt down Agent X-15. Who as it turned out, settled here after learning the truth under the name Brad Wolfe, and well… his attempts to blend in into this timeline failed miserably. Because he was in fact, a movie star here and out in the open often, and that allowed for Loki and Mobius to capture him and bring him back to the TVA. Well, allowed Loki really, since he resorted to his trickster ways to get the job done. Because he was tired of playing games and playing nice and knew he had to push the envelope a bit to get what he wanted and needed, and he could not have picked a better time to do so.

Because X-15, or Brad, as he now preferred… wasn’t talking. Well, not about Sylvie and what the plan was to find her. He just poked at everyone’s psyche and tried to get everyone to back off and leave him be. Which is why it was critical that Loki lean into the darkness here. Since he used it… to really scare the hell out of Brad so that he finally revealed Sylvie’s location. Which allowed for this trio to swing by her location, so that Loki could finally talk to her and try and reach her regarding what she could do for the timeline and the trouble she might be in. But alas, there was little that she cared about now outside of just living her best life in a world where she wasn’t responsible for the timeline. But there were inklings of a hero still within her. The kind that came forth when Brad finally admitted that part of his plan was stalling for a greater operation.

For those that were told the truth about the TVA and their role and their past, could not handle the truth. So, they instead opted to lean hard into what they knew, and so many opted to work on a pruning mission. One where timeline after timeline was detonated and destroyed, killing countless lives and sadly… Loki and his friends only found out about it at the last possible moment, and only saved a handful of timelines. Giving rise to the reality that the chaos in this place brought out the worst in so many and brought forth nothing short of disaster. The kind that will sting… but alas… there may not be much time to mourn the dead and truly reflect upon the horrors of fear and panic. Because Renslayer’s TemPad finally received a ping, and she of course should help to bring He Who Remains to bear. The only question is whether or not Loki will stand alone against him or if she who ended him, will chose to stand at his side.

But while we wait to see how the fight shapes up, we can once again, praise a unique and powerful episode. One that offered us chaos in real time and confusion and dark moments about, and that’s quite impressive to say the least. Since the MCU rarely takes their stories into such realms. But it definitely added a new flair and unique depth to this story. Since it forced a couple of heroes to really face the consequences of evil and fear, and that ending does leave one wondering… if by chance it impacted Sylvie deeper than she initially let on. Either way, this was just a great episode through and through, one that really did set the stage for the rest of the season. Where there is a good chance that our heroes might falter. For Kang the Conqueror is strong and resilient in just about any form, and he truly is barreling toward the prime timeline and all it has to offer. Until next time.