Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Four ‘Mood’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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Whenever we start a new job in life that affords us comfort and wonder and joy, we simply cannot stop talking about it and rightfully so. For this is likely a gig that we’ve been chasing after for some time, so to finally have what we want and enjoy the pay we are worthy of, is cause for celebration. Because we’ve fallen into something wondrous and joyous so why not shout out our satisfaction from the highest building in town? But what’s fascinating about falling into a gig that hooks it up with cash and freedom and comfort, is that not all of them can be celebrated in the same manner. For some, are looked down upon heavily and people will tear the person taking part in them to shreds if they learn what they do. Such as say, sex work.

Because while it is indeed work, society sees it as unsavory work. The kind that is immoral and disgusting in the eyes of the religious and the conservative. Which then begs an important question, how then does a sex worker celebrate the freedom and payday they’ve found in doing such work? Because clearly… walking into a room and announcing what they do, will indeed be met in an awkward fashion and well, it just so happens that the next episode of Mood on BBC America took the time to answer that question and ‘Get That Schmoneyyy’ informs us… there is no celebration for such work. Instead, there is a delicate balance that must be maintained by a sex worker, between putting food on the table and everyday life and that is… no easy task. 

For when we caught up with Sasha here, she was spending a little time with her family. Who decided that enough days had passed to let her back into the home for a nice lunch and catch-up session and while there was no malice present, and even the announcement that another member of the family was on the way, Sasha had to keep her daily life vague. Since making it clear what she actually did for a living, would devastate and destroy any good will within the family at the moment. Not to mention, she also had to struggle with a fascinating admission from Kobi. Who informed her that he found her private page and was good with it, and while he did treat her with respect about such matters, being that close to someone who knew what she actually did, spooked her and elicited a rough response.

All of which made it clear, that this particular career path, is difficult and lonesome and impossible to celebrate or speak to in the traditional manner and to top it off, it’s also work and must be treated as such and that too, is difficult. Simply because we are taught in this life that sex is to always be treated as a romantic and emotional act, one of love really. When in fact, it can be and is transactional at times and performed without love waiting in the emotional wings, and that too… was something she learned to do here, in a creative and unique manner of course. Since this was an opportunity to show us how Sasha loses herself in her mind to get the job done and we also came to learn, how she’s finding agency in this job as evidenced by her last job of the night.

If anything, this was just… a powerful introduction to the world of sex work. Something that few of us understand because of the taboo nature of it and society’s woefully weird view of it, despite the fact that it is one of the world’s oldest professions. Which makes this a brilliant and bold episode when all is said and done, one that helped the focus of this entire series come into view and ties neatly into everything that’s come before it and truly, a few key moments in this tale, were clearly designed to set the stage for the final two episodes of season one. Since there is more to Sasha’s struggles here than just a breaking of ‘societal norms’ and balance. For she jumped into this world on a whim, to escape fundamental problems that have never been fixed, and that is always a recipe for trouble, since those problems… always find a way to return to the forefront of our lives. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Seven of ‘The Peripheral’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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It is definitely safe to say, that the Prime Video series, The Peripheral, has offered up a masterclass in slow-burning storytelling. For over the course of the past seven weeks, we’ve only received a handful of answers regarding what’s going on and why Flynne Fisher is so critical to the devastating future that awaits humanity. So that the series could take its time in building its rich and magnificent world, and truly help us to get to know the characters and connect with them. But eventually, answers do have to come our way and lingering plot threads have to be resolved and well, it just so happens that the penultimate episode of season one of this series, opted to begin to bring answers and resolution into focus. 
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For ‘The Doodad’ is a story that was filled to the brim with all of that, and most of our answers came forth in the future. For we came to learn that Inspector Lowbeer is looking for allies in the fight against Cherise, and it would seem that Flynne and her brother, and Connor could help her with that. Because she knew something suspicious was up, she just didn’t know what exactly. But as it turned out, Ash was the one who finally gave us clarity on a great deal of our questions. Since she eventually revealed to Zubov that Flynne’s mental and physical issues in the present, was due to her mind being full of critical data. The kind that could alter the past and give the Neoprims what they want. Making her critical to the future of humanity.

However, while that alone could have carried this episode from beginning to end, there were other plot threads in ‘present day’ that needed resolution. For instance, the whole mess with Tommy. Because something in his gut told him that something was awry with everything that was happening, and that pushed him to dig deeper and find the truth and sadly… he uncovered the corruption in this town and was asked to take part in it and deny his own morals agency. But he couldn’t stand for that, nor could he stand for a Sheriff that was on the take and that drove Tommy to do the unthinkable and take the law into his own hands. A move that speaks to what he is truly capable of and how far everyone has pushed him and oddly enough, this whole mess tied into another big problem/unresolved plot thread in ‘modern day.’

Because the only reason Tommy was dealing with both men, was because Pickett wanted revenge for what happened to his wife at Bob’s hands. Which meant, Bob did indeed escape the Pickett Estate and opted to resume his mission and he thought the best way to go after Flynne and Burton, was to go after their mother. Who had Reece take her to the doctor while her kids were in the future, because her sight had faded again and of course, Bob followed and attacked and used Reece to bait his targets into his lair, which in this case was the waiting room of the Urgent Care. But thankfully, Burton knew something was wrong and was able to use his skills to bring down Bob at last, putting an end to another threat and really… that’s the key regarding resolution in this tale.

In that, getting corruption and an assassin of the way, clears the path for Cherise and Flynne to finally handle the bad blood between them, and resolve the mess revolving around the data that is giving Flynne trouble inside of her head. Which makes this a pivotal and important tale for certain. One that did a great job of answering our questions and setting the stage for what should be an epic season finale. Because having the fate of humanity hang in the balance of an everyday person caught up in something fantastical, is about as epic as it gets and well, that means we will be counting down the minutes to next week’s finale, so we can see exactly how this grand and sweeping season is going to come to a close. Until next time.

Truly, one of the most anticipated new seasons of television in 2023, has to be the second season of BMF on STARZ. Simply because season one captivated audiences like never before by offering viewers everywhere a dramatic re-telling of a true story that felt, real. Courtesy of incredible direction, magnificent writing and acting that remains out of this world and well, that leaves an audience hungry for more. To the point that the BMF documentary on STARZ has only made that longing, worse. Because now we want the rest of that story serialized in the show and well, the good news, is our long and painful wait to enjoy more dramatization of this incredible journey is about to come to an end.
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Because at long last, STARZ has set the release date for season two of this already iconic series. For earlier today they informed the world that January 6, 2023, will see the season two premiere arrive on the network, on the newly minted ‘Black Mafia Fridays’ no less. Not to mention, STARZ was also kind enough to provide fans with new Key Art and a trailer for season two. To properly build that excitement for what will undoubtedly be a perfect season of storytelling and with that in mind, here are all of those goodies for all of you to enjoy, alongside some updated details about season two, courtesy of STARZ.

‘STARZ released today the trailer and key art for season two of its highly anticipated Detroit-based family drama “BMF,” premiering on Friday, January 6, 2023, at midnight on the STARZ app, all STARZ streaming and on-demand platforms and internationally on the LIONSGATE+ premium streaming platform in the UK and Brazil. On linear, it will debut on STARZ at 8:00 PM ET/PT in the U.S. and Canada. 

Inspired by true Legends, season two of “BMF” chronicles the unconventional journey to success of the Flenory brothers, Demetrius Flenory “Big Meech” and Terry Flenory “Southwest Tee”, who rose from the depths of poverty, navigating the war on drugs in Detroit, and became game changers in hip-hop and culture. Throughout the emotional season, the audience roots for the Flenory brothers during their pursuit of their American Dream, as they build a better life in a system that was stacked against them. The universal themes of family, faith and loyalty are explored both at home and on the streets. The brothers work to outmaneuver the government and expand BMF into a multi-state empire. 
 
“BMF” stars Demetrius “Lil Meech” Flenory Jr., the son of Demetrius “Big Meech” Flenory, Da’Vinchi (The Way Back, “grown-ish”), Russell Hornsby (Fences, The Hate U Give), Michole Briana White (“Dead to Me,” She Hate Me), Myles Truitt (“Black Lightning,” “The New Edition doneStory”), Steve Harris (“The Practice,” Diary of a Mad Black Woman), Kelly Hu (The Scorpion King, “The Orville”), La La Anthony (“The Chi,” Think Like a Man), with Detroit rapper Arkeisha “Kash Doll” Knight, Snoop Dogg (Training Day), Leslie Jones (Coming 2 America, “Saturday Night Live”), Christine Horn (“Snowfall”), Sydney Mitchell (“First Wives Club”), Rayan Lawrence (“Underground”), and Serayah (“Empire,” Favorite Son) in recurring roles and Mo’Nique (Precious, “The Parkers”) as a guest star. In addition, Caresha “Yung Miami'' Brownlee will make a guest appearance this season. 

Viewers can catch up on BMF Season one on the STARZ app via a limited-time offer of $5/month for 3 months at www.starz.com/buy-starz. 

“BMF” is executive produced by Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson through his G-Unit film and television (Executive Producer of the “Power” Universe, “For Life”), alongside showrunner, executive producer, writer and Detroit native Randy Huggins (“Star,” “Rebel,” “Power”). Heather Zuhlke, Anthony Wilson and Anne Clements also serve as executive producers on the series. “BMF” is produced through Jackson’s G-Unit Film and Television in association with Lionsgate Television for STARZ. Costume designer Keia Bounds (“Chappelle’s Show,” “Law & Order: Criminal Intent”) transports the cast back into time with the fashion of the 80s with a dynamic soundtrack from Derryck (Big Tank) Thornton (“The Chi,” Swagger, Greenleaf). Senior Vice President of Original Programming Kathryn Tyus-Adair is the executive overseeing “BMF” on behalf of STARZ. Erin Conroy is the executive overseeing the series on behalf of Lionsgate Television.

Follow “BMF” on Social:
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Instagram: @BMFStarz 
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About “BMF”
“BMF” returns for a second hit season and dramatizes the inspiring true story of two brothers Demetrius “Big Meech” Flenory (Demetrius Flenory, Jr.) and Terry “Southwest T” Flenory (Da’Vinchi), who rose from the decaying streets of southwest Detroit in the late ’80s and gave birth to one of the most influential crime families in the country, Black Mafia Family. “BMF” continues to humanize the choices of the brothers and their pursuit of the American Dream. Rooted in family, loyalty, and brotherhood, the series continues to explore the brothers' complex familial relationships with their parents Charles Flenory (Russell Hornsby) and Lucille Flenory (Michole Briana White) who seek counsel from their spiritual advisor Pastor Swift (Snoop Dogg). Rooted in authenticity and told with grit, heart, and humor, we parachute into the season with Meech and Terry at odds. Meech wants to expand the business beyond Detroit, yet Terry is no longer in the game and is focused on school and launching a legitimate car-ride service with his Pops. As the season unfolds, the streets implode and the brothers risk losing everything. We find out what happens to Meech and Terry as they both seek to become stronger than ever and strategically execute a new vision. Along the way, they meet and form an alliance with Goldie (Oscar-winner Mo’Nique), a sophisticated Atlanta strip club owner, who helps Meech forge his future. As the brothers reflect on their wins, little do they know that their new beginnings will also be plagued with new obstacles.’

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 3302 of ‘Top Gear’. To revisit the season thirty-three premiere, click here.
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It is definitely safe to say, that every car enthusiast out there, would love to own a supercar and it makes sense as to why. After all, they’re gorgeous to look at and of course, they’re a blast to drive. For they harbor raw and incredible power. The kind that sends one’s heart thumping with excitement when the pedal hits the metal. Yet, what’s fascinating, is that a great deal of car enthusiasts, do not have one, and well… it makes sense as to why. In large part, because the price is… up there for certain. Making them a luxury purchase above all else and also because… is it practical to use on the city streets? Because going form 0-60 in 2.3 seconds is cool and all but could cause some trouble on your way to the store to get milk… so car enthusiasts tend to stick to having something practical in their garage.
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But that does beg an important question. In that, is it possible to own a supercar that is both affordable and practical to drive? Well, have no fear because the lads from Top Gear are here. For this week’s episode of the show, opted to answer that particular question. By having Freddie and Paddy and Chris Harris get their hands on a trio of supercars that could potentially be affordable and practical to drive about. For instance, Freddie got behind the wheel of Ferrari 296 GTB, a supercar that retails in the 300k range. And Chris, he chose the Porsche Cayman GT4 RS, a car that retails for about half that. But of course, leave it to Paddy to throw off the curve and ask, ‘what if?’ one was to have the money and could drive their dream car about? Since Paddy brought forth the Pagani Huayra Roadster BC. A monster that runs 3.2 million and with those cars in hand, the lads then headed off to Germany to test that practicality and the thrill they would bring the driver through a series of unique tests.

Such as some big-time races and swaps to see which car brought forth the most enthusiasm because joy is part of practicality and they also… took these bad boys on the Autobahn and into local towns to get a feel for that practical nature and came to discover… it was hard to find a truly practical supercar. Because they had to choose the evening to make use of the Autobahn since it was akin to an American highway at rush hour on a Friday afternoon, and they weren’t easy to maneuver through cities either. In part because of the eyes upon them but also because, they’re big and noisy and their power cannot be unleashed. But while that made it seem as though this was a pipe dream, there was a car in the mix that met the criteria, the Porsche. Because the price was right, everyone had fun with it, and it was just… the easiest of the three to drive. So, in the end, it turns out you can indeed have a practical super car at a decent price.

Yet what was unique about this episode, is that the thought of being practical inspired the lads to think beyond supercars. Because if 150k is still too much, there has to be a way to get around your town in a manner that saves time but doesn’t break the bank and keeps one’s love of the road alive and well, that meant a trip to France to test out… the Microcar. Which are indeed what they sound like, tiny cars that only fit a single person, possibly two, but can indeed squeeze into small places and sneak around town and avoid traffic without requiring a bank-breaking loan. And to really get a feel for how they perform, the lads went on a treasure hunt about the city, or rather… a selfie hunt. To see how their car would do in busy times and well in the end it was Paddy’s ride that won the day. Since the Carver could easily slink past traffic with minimal effort, thanks to its stunning compact design. 

In the end however, this was just… an informative episode when all is said and done, one that did less celebration of the cars that we admire to really hammer home the possibility that we can in fact, get our hands on what seems impossible and only for the ultra-rich at times. Sure, it might cost us a pretty penny, but a supercar is doable and yeah, one could take it about town and enjoy the wonder of that and if that’s too much… the Carver, the Citroen Ami and City Transformer are out there. But what matters more is that this series once again made it clear, that it truly works to appeal to everyday people out there. Who love nice cars and want to celebrate them and potentially own them, and it is wonderful to know that this series will mix things up and educate and offer solutions for that now and again, in between showcasing the ridiculous rides that drop our jaws over, and now that this informative road trip has come to a close, it will be interesting to see what other lessons and celebrations await us as season thirty-three continues along. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Nine of ‘Shantaram’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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One thing that we can all agree upon, is that the Apple TV+ series, Shantaram, is an outright masterpiece series when it comes to storytelling. For not only does this show whisk us away to a time period that few of us know about, but it is also a magnificent character study. One that gives proper screen time and attention to the people that surround Lin Ford in Bombay in 1980 and the wonder of this show doesn’t end there. Because it is also filled to the brim with commentary and musings on the nature and the power of change, and how we cannot deny it agency when it comes calling and this week’s episode of the show, offered up a new addition to this already rich tapestry. 
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In that, ‘Should I Stay or Should I Go’, took the time to remind us of how our lives are deeply intertwined with the people we encounter, whether we like to acknowledge it or not, and how those delicate ties can bring forth wondrous or ugly consequences depending upon what we brought to the table when that relationship was forged. A feat that this story accomplished by putting those wonders and horrors on display. For instance, the good that Lin forged with Didier came back to help both men in this tale. Since Didier was still struggling to find direction forward after being seen as a monster. And Lin’s kindness and honesty, and the trust he built with Didier, helped him to push forward and find life again, giving rise to wonderful consequences for coming to know another.

Not to mention, at long last… Lin made headway with Karla as well, regarding their relationship and her actions in this life. Because Lin is genuinely good at the core of his soul and his purity and love for her, and the expression of that… caught her off guard and left her wondering if there was more for her in this life that just being Khan’s blunt tool to forward his means. In fact, Lin’s attempts to woo her here and be honest about the joy she brought him, combined with Khan once again playing games with lives… only fueled that further. Informing us of how love and gentleness can change perspectives and lives. Which were two plot paths that could have made this, a true feel-good episode for certain, had this story not bothered to ponder upon, the ugly consequences.

Which in Lin’s case, all related to his past and some of his more negative actions. Because when Maurizio was faced with his own end for not having the money his boss expected him to have… he made Lin his patsy. All in the hopes of being free from trouble and to bring hell upon Lin, all because of the bad blood between them and the needling that Lin sent his way. Giving rise to new trouble since a price was put upon Lin’s head. Not to mention, denying Kavita truth and escaping the clutches of a horribly determined cop, brought forth more ugly consequences as well. Since Kavita had her team reach out anyone and everyone about Lin, and to top it off… Nightingale got wind of the search, after coming within inches of finding out about Lin’s whereabouts in the first place. 

That means… that the wheels are now in motion for Nightingale to arrive in Bombay, despite the fact that Kavita called off the article since Karla’s good vibes, and the offer to expose Khader Khan instead, came into play. Setting the stage for a showdown for the ages, through an utterly brilliant episode. One that was subtle in nature early on, but quickly grew into so much more and kept our attention through the actions of these wonderfully written characters. But what matters more, is that the past and change are once again about to take the center stage. Because of the trouble that is brewing now and because of the fact that Nightingale plans to have his man regardless of the confession that he received and that is going to make the wait for next week’s episode quite painful in nature, since you know Nightingale won’t waste any time in resuming the hunt for the one that got away. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 304 of ‘Mythic Quest’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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It is definitely safe to say, that the Apple TV+ series, Mythic Quest, is one of the most dynamic shows on the air right now. Simply because… this is that rare series that can tell, just about any kind of story at any given time and please its audience in doing so. Because the comedy in this series is top-notch, so if it wants to lean heavy into that… we’re good with it because we are going to laugh hard. If it wants to be a drama, we’re okay with that too… because this show knows how to handle that in an earnest and endearing manner that captivates us as well. And of course… if the show wants to be a workplace parody…. that is not a problem either.
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Since it knows how to lampoon the struggles, we all endure from 9-5 in a manner that demands our attention. In fact, that latter element is top of mind today, simply because that was what this week’s episode of the show opted to put on display. For ‘The Two Joes’ put forth a bevy of workplace storylines that we can all relate to. For instance, Ian and Dana’s storyline… where they hung out all day since Ian was going to speak at her school, served to remind us how sometimes… we find kindred spirits in the workplace. Those people that just seem to get us like no one else. All because Dana in essence, peered into Ian’s mind and reached him on a fundamental level. Which blew his mind and hammered home the point, in a quirky manner of course. 

Not to mention, Brad’s and Rachel and Poppy’s storylines in this tale, truly reminded us of just how… wild the workplace can be when we ask for feedback on a project or offer it. Since Poppy had to borrow the testers to give Hera a quick dry run, which upended their world and made them uncomfortable. Especially when they had to break the bad news to her that uh… while the game was visually amazing and a coding masterpiece, it wasn’t fun. As for Brad and Rachel well… she simply got caught up in the madness of Brad’s plan to make NFT’s the hot new thing at Mythic Quest, all because she had a few things to say about the nature of NFT’s and how fans kinda hate them, when they have no purpose. Which in turn, got her pulled into the hurricane Brad was creating since she was suddenly at his side and on a call with David regarding pulling the plug on the old program to activate the new one, she pondered upon. 

Speaking of David, well his storyline reminded us of the fact that sometimes, we do unique tasks in the workplace. The kind that are out of the norm and supremely uncomfortable, all in the name of the paycheck and this story accomplished that feat, by having Jo take part in something she’s never done before… try and cast a movie star. Because Joe Manganiello was interested in taking part in the upcoming Mythic Quest movie and wanted a meeting with David. But since David went home to change shirts and found himself caught up that brutal Cerritos traffic to and from, it was up to Jo to land him and uh… that got weird. Since David had to relay what he wanted to tell Joe via Jo via phone, while he was on the line with the office and of course, Jo didn’t know how to act around a big star so… the awkward was real. But she went for it, because it was the request of her boss and oddly, it kinda sorta worked out.

Because when Joe finally expressed his frustration over the awkwardness of this meeting, Jo took the time to sell him on an emotional story as to why David was so late. The kind involving a now late wife. Which brought forth sympathy and a second chance, also reminding us… that sometimes when we are out of our comfort zone at work, we can accomplish wonders. In the end however, this was just a wondrous, day in the life, workplace story. One that reminded us of the ups and the downs of the 9-5 in a hilarious manner, and that definitely puts us in a better mood regarding our day gig. Just because it reminds that we are not alone in such experiences and good has come from our experiences in the workplace and that’s thanks to the fact that this series can do it all, and now that we’ve reached the end of this shift, it’s onto the next one. And it will be interesting to see what comes out of the new ideas and connections forged here and learn what it will take to land Joe Manganiello in the upcoming Mythic Quest movie. Until next time.   

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 204 of ‘The Mosquito Coast’. To revisit the previous episode, click here. This article also contains discussions regarding domestic and emotional abuse, which may be triggering to some individuals.
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One particular question that people ask behind closed doors, regarding someone that they care about, when they happen to be trapped in a toxic and terrifying relationship… is why that person stays in such a situation? Which is… a valid question to ask, since no one likes to be surrounded by stress and worry, nor are they good with taking any kind of abuse or control. So yes, why stay? Why not just stand tall and say one has had enough and walk away? Well, it turns out, such a move isn’t as simple as one might think. For abusive partners and toxic ones for that matter as well, understand control and manipulation, and how to use those elements… to keep what they want present in their lives.
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Which means, it takes a monumental moment and the right support to really get someone to walk away from that kind of nightmare and even then… escape is no easy task. Since safety is of concern, because a toxic partner might lose it when the person they control has had enough and is ready to walk away. Not to mention, in the worst-case scenario, they’ll do their best to reclaim the person they think belongs to them. If anything, all of this is top of mind today, simply because it all served as the focus of the next episode of The Mosquito Coast on Apple TV+. For when we reunited with the Fox family in ‘A Rag, a Bone, a Hank of Hair’, Margot was in quite the grim place, and understandably so. For she knew that Allie knew what she was planning and there would be hell to pay.

Which there was since Allie was quick to hammer her and point out the folly of her plan. In essence engaging in the toxic behavior and manipulation he was known for and that… put Margot back in a meek mental space, as his words had so many times in this life. But a talk with Dina, led to her expressed frustrations over how dad and his power trips and toxic nonsense always won the day, and how mom acquiesced to his wishes. Which were cold words, infuriating as well, but ones that Margot needed to hear. Because there was truth there, the kind that Margot needed to listen to in order to change course and that motivated her… to come up with a wild plan. One that would require distraction for Allie, which thankfully Charlie provided since he got into a bit of trouble with poachers and the cameras they placed in the jungle, and distraction for the young man that fancied Dina… Adolfo.

Because that would give Margot a clear line of sight to the satellite phone that Ridley had aboard his trawler, which would allow her to make some calls and be free and clear at last… and that first part of the plan worked like a charm. Because she was able to get through to Washington, and the agent that sent Don and Estelle to their fates in season one, and she offered up Allie on a silver platter in exchange for immunity for her and the rest of her family. Which was indeed a bold and powerful move, one that spoke to how Margot had finally reached her breaking point with Allie and knew change was necessary. And it was also a sequence of events, that spoke to how escape for the abused and mistreated isn’t as easy as one might hope. Since her pleas fell upon disinterested ears, since the Feds wanted her as well, courtesy of her far greater crimes.

Which sadly, has Margot back at square one whether she likes it or not. But what matters more here, was the depth and commentary present in this tale. Since we so rarely see the struggle that people suffering from domestic and emotional abuse go through, and how difficult it is for them to break free of that cycle and the pain it feeds them. Which means this story deserves a flat out round of applause for tackling a topic that shows barely still discuss in this day and age and for setting the stage for a grand journey that will explore how an abused individual escapes a toxic and abusive relationship. Because clearly, Margot has had enough, and she is ready to do whatever it takes to heal her ailing son, free her darling daughter and enjoy peace and agency at last, without Allie in all of their lives. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 203 of ‘Gangs of London’. To revisit the season two premiere, click here.
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One thing that we can all agree upon, is that the season two premiere of Gangs of London on AMC+, not only shocked us through and through… but left us with more questions than answers. For seeing Sean Wallace’s face again after all this time seemed to be an outright impossibility, since he took a bullet right to the face in the season one finale, at the hands of Elliot no less. But somehow, he clearly survived and that was what we wanted to know. How he survived what should have been a life ending injury and what on earth he was doing back in London after coming back from such an ugly end to his story in season one and thankfully, the next episode in this magnificent series, wasted little time in answering those all-important questions.
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All by taking us back in time to a year ago. Wherein we came to learn that while Sean appeared dead, the bullet clearly didn’t exit his brain stem or damage it. It just left him badly wounded and bleeding and well… it turned out that Lale had been watching all this time and when the opportunity to step into that hotel and save him arose, she took it and rescued him… only for her and Sean to be captured by seeming nefarious forces. But instead, it turned out to be… the same agency that tried to recruit Elliot to bring down the Investors and they of course wanted what they didn’t get from Elliot, an ally. Someone to bring down this vicious organization, legally, and at first, Sean had little interest in helping them. Because that would make him no less than a tool of the system, which his family stood against and thrived in doing so. But eventually… Sean came round.

Which made it seem as though, he had learned his lesson about how crime doesn’t pay and would now play the hero and bring down Koba and give the government the door-to-door war it would take to push the Investors out of London without ever having to risk the manpower that the taxpayers fund. And boy did Sean deliver, as we now know. But the fact that Billy was spotted going after Elliot and expected to check in with mom, changed everything and revealed his true intentions in returning to London. Since he had to reach out his mother and make arrangements to save her from Koba’s wrath since he finally pinpointed her point of origin and well, once the dust settled on that, and everyone had a minute to breath back in London, whilst hiding in plain sight… the truth came forth.

In that, Sean wasn’t interested in playing nice with the authorities, he was simply playing them. For he came to realize in his time away and while he was healing… that he was Sean Wallace. Heir to the Wallace throne and the true King of the London Underworld. And no law enforcement individual or member of government was going to take away his birthright. And to hammer home the point as to how he expected everyone to fall in line behind him and support the return of the Wallace Empire… he killed his father’s mistress when she tried to make a power play of her own using the family funds. Giving rise to a ruthlessness that Sean never quite exhibited in season one, but that did make it clear that Sean has changed, and he is ready to conquer and rule and woe to Koba and anyone that gets in his way, and woe to Elliot.

Since they did share a moment together, one that made it clear how much hate was harbored between them. Something that might bubble over badly if the Investors are indeed driven out of London. Which will be no easy task, since Koba is as ruthless as they come, and they have eyes everywhere. If anything, this was just… a stellar episode through and through and it deserves all the credit it is due for filling us in immediately on Sean’s fate, rather than draw that out or delay it. Because that means this series knows to give the fans exactly what they want, and it also means… that going this route now… means we have bigger moments ahead. The kind that will undoubtedly involve all-out war, as Sean Wallace and his rag tag group of freedom fighters and Elliot for that matter as well, give their all to drive Koba and the Investors away from London, with their tails between their legs.

To learn more about season two and what the cast are looking forward to everyone experiencing, check out ourinterview with series Director Corin Hardy and Cast Members: Sopé Dìrísú, Narges Rashidi and Waleed Zuaiter.

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

Approaching the finale of season two, all signs pointed to a chaotic and explosive penultimate episode. While things do come to a head in a fiery start, this ended up as an episode of reconciliation and of the unexpected. The result is heartwarming in true Ducks fashion. 
 
The episode begins with tension that you could cut with a hockey skate blade. Dominate and the Ducks gather for the championship banquet and it’s clear that both teams are through with each other and the coaching staff. On a night of celebration when Coach Cole delivers a motivational opening speech, he’s met with sarcastic claps, glares, and muttering. The dinner further devolves into chaos when Evan and Jace get into an argument in the buffet line, which turns into an all-out scuffle between the two squads. 
 
Coach Alex suggests that maybe the coaches should apologize to the kids for letting their conflict and trade talk bring down the tone of camp, but (to no one’s surprise) Coach Cole believes they should settle things on the ice. As both teams sit in a room together cleaning up their mess, they find something they can finally agree on: pushing back against the coaches. Sofi takes charge and tells the group that they should be having the time of their life making lifelong friendships, not fighting over a game. 
 
Coach Cole and Coach Alex arrive at the rink for the Summer Showcase championship game only to find it empty. It turns out, the kids finally learned a lesson from the first episode: “you can’t win summer.” They instead decide to escape to the lake where they can “swim and/or frolic” without the pressures of the tournament. In their short time there, they form some strong bonds. Alex and Jace make amends, Maya reveals to Nick that she had a crush on him, AJ learns to make space for his younger brother, and other campers come out of their shells to make new friendships. 
 
In a pivotal and long-awaited scene, Coach Cole and Jace finally have a heart to heart. Coach apologizes to his son for the mistakes he made as a father, for not communicating after Jace’s mom passed away, for pushing hockey on him as an outlet, and for not knowing what to do after Jace’s flub in the big game. He tells Jace how he and his mother used to come there and how they brought Jace there when he was little; all reasons why he decided to build the camp in that location. The conversation shifts Coach Cole’s character. He becomes willing to move on from his own strict code to embrace the fun that the campers are having. For Jace, he’s able to put the past behind him and, in doing so, finds his shot again. 
 
As Team Canada heads to L.A. awaiting the winner of the Showcase, Coach Cole must decide how to settle EPIC’s big game that never was. His shift to more fun leads to a merger: Dominate and the Ducks put their rivalry aside to form a superteam. In a final cliffhanger, it’s revealed that Team Canada’s coach is none other than Coach T, the former coach of the Mighty Ducks who cut Evan from the team in season one. Just when the flames of the new rivalries were doused, old ones were stoked. 
 
The wholesome new Ducks are ready to fly, and their coaches’ philosophies are finally aligned. We head into the finale with a very clear good guy and bad guy. Coach Alex has shown that Coach Cole has a good heart and that he isn’t in it for the wrong reasons. Alex and Evan will finally be able to avenge how he was treated by Coach T, looking to take him out again - this time in a formal game. The ice is set for an unanticipated but very exciting showdown, especially if the Ducks and Dominate can gel quickly enough to win together against an international foe on a big stage. 

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the series premiere of ‘Echo 3’.
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Each and every one of us at some point, have spoken to what we would do take care of our family and those we love, by using some form of the phrase… anything. Simply because our family means everything to us and the thought of sitting on the sidelines while they are hurting or in distress, sends our blood boiling and lets our imagination wander upon how far we would indeed need to go to make that happen. But more often than not, this is simply… talk and fantasy. For that kind of real trouble is rare… but not impossible. Since we do hear about kidnappings and moments that would put that question to the test.
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But even, it remains mostly fantasy. After all, in a kidnapping, the person hoping to see their loved one come home is truly helpless and they can do nothing but wait. And the same goes for folks that have loved ones involved in a particular crisis that could bring them harm. Which means that really… if we want to answer that question in the affirmative and follow through, we’d need the resources to pay the ransom or to rescue our loved one from their struggle, which in turn leaves us wondering… what would that look like? Well, it just so happens that a brand-new series on Apple TV+, takes the time to answer that question in a harrowing and engaging manner, since helplessness and a need to save a loved one at any cost, are the central problem present in Echo 3.

A feat that this series accomplishes in ‘Flyaway’, ‘Tora Bora in the City’, and ‘The Gambler’, by having the worst-case scenario take place for two men in this tale. For Prince is married to Amber and Bambi is Amber’s brother and they love her dearly and find themselves deeply worried about her. For Amber is captured by rebels in Colombia when she heads out that way to do research in her field, thanks to a military tracking device planted in her luggage by Prince out of worry, and well… since these men are special forces and have deep pockets courtesy of Prince’s dad, they answer the question for us in fascinating manner. In that… yes, if we had the resources we would go above and beyond to bring our loved one home.

Since they take the time to fly out there, and work with the Embassy in Colombia and even go on television and radio to call out the Rebels and the Colombian and United States governments to get military action rolling. And of course, since they are special forces, they are happy to strike when needed and join the military on the raid to bring Amber home. Making it clear that resources would go a long way in this particular dream, as would guts since it takes that to do what these men do here. But what truly makes this series premiere worthwhile, is that it offers more than just the reality that endless resources bring forth endless opportunities to get what we want and need out of life.
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For this is a tale that also ponders upon the consequences of that of power, and the finer points of combat in the real world and how we glorify war and missions and raids when they cost real lives, the kind that change families and futures forever. Not to mention, this is a story that also reminds us… that having all the money in the world and wonderful military training, does not guarantee success in saving a loved one or getting what we want. Because people always complicate the best laid plans, especially when they are dedicated to their own agenda or a cause they truly believe in, and that’s a hard lesson that Prince and Bambi learn at the end of this brilliant and refreshing tale.

Because this is a thriller unlike any other. Because it isn’t just some ‘shoot ‘em up’ bonanza. It’s a deep story, one that grounds our characters and has vastly different stakes in front them. The kind that doesn’t involve revenge or a noble quest for freedom. It’s just love, it’s all done for love here and that is a welcome change, and it brings forth a vastly unique story. One that captivates and engages and leaves one eager or more. Simply because, there’s no malicious people here, just two solid human beings that want a person that means to the world to them… home and safe. And well, we want that as well by the end of this premiere, and it will be interesting to see if Prince and Bambi can pull off this spectacular feat, with hard defiance standing in their way. Until next time.

To learn more about this series and what the cast is excited for you to experience, and why they wanted to be part of it, check out our interview with the show’s stars: Michiel Huisman, Jessica Ann Collins, and Luke Evans.