Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Eight of ‘Three Women’. To revisit the previous episode, click here. This article also contains discussions regarding abuse of a minor and suicide, which may be triggering to some individuals.
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We like to believe that the day we are going to stand up for ourselves, will be a proud day. One where we showcase our agency, our power, so that the person that wronged us understands, they messed with the wrong individual, and well… there’s merit to that belief. Because standing up for ourselves can accomplish that, but it doesn’t always give us pride and make us feel empowered. Especially when we stand up for ourselves regarding a toxic relationship. For standing tall there, exposes a lot of hard truths and involves a bevy of tough emotions, and that tough aspect to claiming agency is top of mind today, because it was put on display in the next episode of Three Women on STARZ.

For ‘twilight’ was all about Maggie, and her day in court. Because the trial against her predator of a teacher was underway and she thought… there would be pride. But instead, it was a harrowing experience that forced her to think even more upon the past. About how her teacher manipulated her often when they were ‘seeing’ each other and kept control over her through sweet nothings and sexual pleasure. And having to face that again, was difficult to say the least. Because hindsight helped her to see what he did to her emotionally, and the pain he imparted upon her because of that, and of what she lost by giving into his claims that he loved her and wanted her.

Because it forced her to keep secrets from her family, her friends, her closest ones even. All to keep the fantasy alive and keep this controlling creep happy and that cost her friendships when the truth came out, and of course… there was nothing left for her when he broke everything off. All of which explored, how standing tall against a toxic ex… makes us feel small. Makes us feel as though we were nothing but a fool, who followed our heart and our loins over logic, and that does elicit shame and fury. Fury over why we couldn’t see the warning signs sooner, or why we let ourselves fall for such nonsense. But that’s what toxic relationships do. They scramble us, and cost us so much, and the impact of that extended beyond reflection.

For she was trying her best to be herself in this story and find joy and be strong. But it wasn’t easy. In fact, at times she was just listless and lost and rightfully so. Because this was a lot to process, and a lot for her family to process as well. For they had some hard truths in front of them, and of course, learning about pain for one’s child… wounds deeply. Makes one believe that they are a bad parent or a failure because they couldn’t protect them from the chaos of the world. Which put Maggie’s dad in a dark, dark place. One from which there was no return and that brought fresh pain in the household and for Maggie… a greater sense of loss. In the direct sense since her father took his own life, but in the indirect sense as well.

Such as a loss of innocence, a loss of youth and a loss of power and agency. All because one man did his best to act out a fantasy and dragged her emotionally to have it, and that made for a powerful tale. One that spoke to the power of toxic relationships, and the fact that standing up for oneself doesn’t always end triumphantly. It can open cans of rotten worms and test one like never before, but we do come out of the other side for the better. It just takes time, and healing, as so many things in this life do, and this episode deserves a round of applause for pointing all of this out and for once again showcasing how much harder this process is for women. Since we don’t believe victims, we grill them… and that outright has to stop. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Four of ‘Sweetpea’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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One particularly dark truth that we don’t like to admit to all that often… is that we are sometimes inspired to excel in life, through spite. And we hate admitting to that, because that feels quite toxic in nature. For we are taught that we are to find inspiration in positive elements and people that we admire. So, we can become the best version of ourselves possible. But along the way, we learn, that revenge is sometimes a dish that is best served cold, and there is nothing colder than taking the disdain we have for someone and using that as motivation to become more, and well… that does make us feel a little dirty. 

But it shouldn’t, how we find inspiration is how we find inspiration, and if proving someone wrong is the way to do that, so be it. All that matters is that it pushes us, and we leave toxic behaviors out of it. Because that is when this becomes something ugly, something terrifying, and well… that is likely why the next episode of Sweetpea on STARZ explored what it looks like when we try to get ahead through the harm of others. So, it can serve as a cautionary tale. Which ‘Everybody Loves Julia’ accomplished by informing us… that Rhiannon didn’t kill her nemesis. No instead, she wanted to enjoy the kill and break Julia before doing her in and well… that proved to be difficult. Because she clapped back and knew what buttons to push, and that in turn, pushed Rhiannon to new heights for all the wrong reasons.

Which was why she demanded she get to write the story about Julia missing. In part, to be the one to break bad news about the person she hated to the world but to also… find dirt to break her with. But alas, that too was a tough task. Because her friends said nothing but nice things, and even her beloved spoke to some measure of wonder in their relationship. Making it seem as though, other avenues would need to happen to bring Julia to her lowest. But that didn’t stop Rhiannon from finding joy in being spiteful in this manner. Since she found a real thrill in pubslishing her first story and in exerting power over Craig. For she felt as though she was in charge of her destiny at last. In fact, she even stood up to her sister, and well… if she didn’t have Julia tied up in the garage of her home, this might have been inspiring.

But it really did showcase how we can be at our worst when we use that motivation to hurt over heal and going this route only made Rhiannon a tragically dark character that found herself in an odd place when she finally got the dirt she wanted. In that, Julia’s relationship was not a wondrous and magical coupling. It was ugly, and she was trapped and that put some humility into Rhiannon’s soul and helped her to realize, that she was doing the wrong things, and this was more about her demons and her skeletons over anything else. But alas, there may not be much time for her to really ponder upon that. Since the article coming out, combined with Marina’s fine work on the case, has put this mess at a crossroads. Because the police might be onto Rhiannon now, and that will up the pressure like never before.

But while we wait to see what lie ahead regarding that, we can celebrate one twisted cautionary tale. For this one really did inform us to, yes, use a little fire to push us to the top, but never let it consume us. Or we become what we saw here, a vengeful and angry person that will stop at nothing to inflict pain over celebrating the wins. Because Rhiannon’s bloodlust and need for revenge truly clouded her vision to the fact that she was a reporter now, and that men were interested in her and her sister was listening to her. All of which she’s wanted for some time. Which only adds to the tragedy, one that is barreling toward a powerful conclusion. Because it really is only a matter of time before the police connect the dots, and that compels us to continue the journey. To see if any measure of redemption can be found for Rhiannon… or if she is truly lost. Until next time.

There was a time in television history, where what lie ahead for our favorite fictional characters, resided within our imagination once a series we adored came to a close. For the series finale of a show was indeed the end all, be all, farewell to the series, and that world would never be visited ever again. Which was tough to swallow. Because sometimes, a show ended without proper resolution, and we wanted there to be a complete ending to the story, or a character’s journey simply wasn’t wrapped up for a host of reasons. But alas, all one could do was deal with the reality; that was that. But thankfully… that all changed with the explosion of peak television.
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Because supply and demand came into play and creatives saw an opportunity to return to classic stories and expand upon them and explore what some of the characters might be up to years later, much to everyone’s joy. For at last, it was happening, and we were getting more, and it just so happens… that Disney+, and the Disney Channel are home to a follow-up to a beloved series that we absolutely wanted more of in Wizards Beyond Waverly Place. Which returns us to this magical world in a manner that is both satisfying and stunning, in all the right ways. Courtesy in large part to its unique plot. One that steps into present day to help us to catch up with Justin Russo after all these years. 

Wherein we learn that Justin has left magic behind, mostly, and has opted to live a normal life with his beloved wife Giada, and his sons, Roman and Milo, and well… it would seem that all is well for Justin, and he is truly is in a happy place, free from magic. But the arrival of a magical outcast named Billie by way of a blast from Justin’s past… pulls him back into the world of magic. For poor Billie is a wizard that so many believe is a lost cause and will never amount to anything in the Wizard World. But Justin believes otherwise and believes he can bring out the best in her, and that brings about a new chapter for this story… one that is genuinely magical in every sense of the word.

In large part because… it recaptures the overall vibe of the original show. So that sense of fun, and awe and wonder are present here, and that’s huge. Because it does make this a natural extension of the original show, one that takes the time to explore new territory for the franchise, by way of some seriously impressive themes. Since this story is grounded deeply in wonderful themes regarding the power of family, the importance of communication and the nature of the second chance. Giving real depth to this series and investing us deeply in the journey, and well… it makes sense as to why this series is such a wonderful blend of adult themes and the impish joy of our youth.

For David Henrie, who portrayed Justin in the original series, is back to play the adult version of him and he serves as an executive producer on the show and knows full well the importance of staying true to what came before while shepherding the series into a new era and a new chapter. In fact, here is what David said to NTG in a recent press conference, regarding that storytelling mission.

David Henrie: It- it- meaningful is the word. Um, and it’s such a treat to get to watch, like, I see myself in a lot of these kids—to get to watch them go through what I went through- before the show comes out, I’m like “You guys have no idea what’s about to happen.” It’s just- it’s fun to- it’s fun to watch them, um, uh, get ready for this moment. But, um, you know, for me particularly, I take very seriously kind of my- my dual role as I see it in my head to be a shepherd of, um, the spirit of the original show, but also the- the culture on set and the atmosphere I seek to create. I’ve been doing this for 26 years now. I’ve seen the good, the bad, and the ugly of, um, of this business, and I really seek to bring forward all the best experiences that I’ve- that I’ve had to try to create the most positive, um, culture on set that allows for everyone’s success.
 
And- and, you know, by the grace of God, it’s been going really well. I’ve seen all of these young actors continue to mature and take ownership over their characters. They- the talent level was already very high coming in. But now I’m really seeing everyone settle into their characters and make it their own, and that has been just such a joy to get to witness now from a different position kind of as a producer, ’cause I remember doing it as a kid as one thing—you’re kind of just in it and you’re doing it and you don’t- you’re so focused on what you’re doing that you don’t- you don’t see the growth yourself. But I get to see it now from this perspective and that is such a- such a joy to witness and continue to help, uh, encourage in all these young actors.

Which truly does inform us… that this is a labor of love, and a chance to do something genuinely special, and that is why the end result is a magnificent new chapter in the series. One that truly gives the fans what they want, while also moving this franchise into a bold new chapter. Courtesy of a story that explores the magic of what it means to be human, and we hope you give this series a look as quick as you can. Because it really is a wondrous follow-up to an iconic series and it will stand as the perfect companion piece, thanks to the heart present in this charming tale.

It is definitely safe to say that the AMC series, Dark Winds, has taken the world by storm. Simply because this simple yet impactful crime series has served as a breath of fresh air. In part by plunging us back into an era free from advanced technology, the 1970s, where police work was handled in a vastly different manner. Not to mention, it features some incredible characters, and above all, it offers representation on the screen for Indigenous Americans. By featuring an Indigenous American cast and by being set on a reservation as well. Allowing for us to learn about the rich traditions of Indigenous Americans.
 
Plus, it also features some incredible cases that captivate, and well… fans have been anxiously awaiting the third season of the show. Because they simply want more of what this magnificent show has to offer, and AMC has decided to reward the fans’ patience. Since they recently dropped some first look photos, a teaser and details on the upcoming third season, which debuts in spring of 2025, and of course… we are happy to share those images, details and that very teaser with all of you. So, we can all properly count down the days to a bigger and bolder season, filled with incredible moments and a stunning case for Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn and his team to investigate.  
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‘AMC Networks today released a teaser trailer and first-look images from the highly-anticipated upcoming season of its hit noir drama, Dark Winds, which will return with all new episodes exclusively on AMC and AMC+ on Sunday, March 9 at 9pm ET/PT. The first two seasons of the critically lauded series both have perfect 100-point scores on Rotten Tomatoes. Dark Winds stars Zahn McClarnon (The Son, Westworld, Fargo), Kiowa Gordon (The Red Road, Roswell, New Mexico), Jessica Matten (Rez Ball, Tribal, Burden of Truth) and Deanna Allison (Accused, Edge of America). Ahead of the Season 3 premiere, viewers can catch up on the captivating first two seasons of Dark Winds on AMC+ and via the AMC Collection on Netflix. 
 
The expanded third season, featuring eight episodes, picks up six months after the events of Season 2 and follows Lt. Joe Leaphorn (McClarnon) and Jim Chee (Gordon) as they investigate the disappearance of two boys, with only an abandoned bicycle and blood-stained patch of ground left in their wake. Meanwhile, Bernadette Manuelito (Matten) attempts to settle into her new life 500 miles from home with the Border Patrol, but stumbles across a conspiracy involving human and drug smuggling with far-reaching implications.
 
As previously announced, joining the this season as guest stars are Jenna Elfman (Dharma & Greg, Fear the Walking Dead) as FBI Special Agent Sylvia Washington, Bruce Greenwood (The Fall of the House of Usher, The Resident) as Tom Spenser, Raoul Max Trujillo (Mayans M.C., Blue Beetle) as Budge, Tonantzin Carmelo (La Brea, The English) as Border Patrol Agent Eleanda Garza, Alex Meraz (The Twilight Saga: New Moon,The Walking Dead) as Border Patrol Agent Ivan Muños, Terry Serpico (Law & Order SVU, Yellowstone) as Border Patrol Senior Chief Ed Henry, Derek Hinkey (American Primeval, Americana) as Shorty Bowlegs, Phil Burke(Hell on Wheels, Rabbit Hole) as Michael Halsey, and Christopher Heyerdahl (Under the Banner of Heaven, Hell on Wheels) as Dr Reynolds. This season also sees the return of guest star A. Martinez (Longmire, Days of Our Lives) as Scarborough Police Department Acting Chief Gordo Sena.
 
Based on the iconic Leaphorn & Chee book series by Tony Hillerman, Dark Winds is created by Graham Roland (Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan, The Returned, Almost Human, Fringe). John Wirth (Hell of Wheels, Hap and Leonard) serves as showrunner. The series is executive produced by Roland, Wirth, McClarnon, Robert Redford, George R.R. Martin, Chris Eyre, Tina Elmo, Jim Chory, Vince Gerardis and Anne Hillerman.

About AMC Networks
AMC Networks (Nasdaq: AMCX) is home to many of the greatest stories and characters in TV and film and the premier destination for passionate and engaged fan communities around the world. The company creates and curates celebrated series and films across distinct brands and makes them available to audiences everywhere. Its portfolio includes targeted streaming services AMC+, Acorn TV, Shudder, Sundance Now, ALLBLK and HIDIVE; cable networks AMC, BBC AMERICA (operated through a joint venture with BBC Studios, which includes U.S. distribution and sales responsibilities for BBC News), IFC, SundanceTV and WE tv; and film distribution labels IFC Films and RLJE Films. The company also operates AMC Studios, its in-house studio, production and distribution operation behind acclaimed and fan-favorite originals including The Walking Dead Universe and the Anne Rice Immortal Universe; and AMC Networks International, its international programming business. 
 
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Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 103 of ‘Happy’s Place’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.

One particular aspect about modern family life that we simply are not talking about collectively as a society, is how much the model and dynamic of families have changed. Because the old 1950s dynamic of a husband and wife, and two-point-five kids is long gone. Instead, it has been replaced with a vastly different model, wherein many kids now split time with their parents and live within blended families, or live in a household with same sex parents. Not to mention, thanks to genetic testing and databases… people are learning they have other new family members in their lives, that they have to get to know in some form or fashion.

Which begs some important questions. Such as, how does one process that? Along with, how does one adjust to such a surprise? Because getting new family members in any capacity cannot be easy to handle, and thankfully… stories are working to help us with that, and one that is leading the charge right now is Happy’s Place on NBC. For this series continues to dive into the family dynamic that now exists between Bobbie and Isabella, and the struggles they’re encountering as new family members and business partners and this week’s episode made sure to put that adjustment front and center to help all.

In fact, it was quite the adjustment that Bobbie had to make in this tale, because despite enjoying having Isabella around, there were some concerns on her part regarding what is the biggest adjustment of all. In that, when new family arrives, their habits, their quirks and the good and the bad are on display. To the point where that can be rattling and that made Bobbie quite nervous and quite terrified. Because she wasn’t used to having folks around, interrupting her daily routine and that scared her, and Isabella was also unsure of how to live with family in a healthier manner, so they deemed it best to split really and try life in that manner. 

But that wasn’t healthy for either of them. Because they’re family, and need each other right now and well, with some advice from Gabby, Bobbie realized that in order to adjust to this new life and really learn how to be a good sister and enter a new chapter in her family’s life… she was going to have to do something bold. In that, she was just going to have to accept that this was life now, and to learn to adjust and compromise as needed to know family and to make Isabella feel welcomed. Which brought her back into the fold and taught us some valuable lessons regarding tolerance and a need to be open to new experiences and all they bring us. Because that is what family life is all about.
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Which made for a lovely episode, one that was further enhanced by Steve and Takoda’s journey in this story. Since that duo spoke to how important it is to respect one another and our differences and truly… this show continues to impress. Because it really is digging into some beautiful lessons and showcasing a chapter in life that so many are experiencing right now and that so many others will soon experience. Making this a special series really, one that is heartwarming and funny, and everything we hoped for from a new story from the Queen of Country, and it does leave us eager to see what lie ahead in this healing journey as season one of this magnificent show continues on. Until next time.  

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 303 of ‘Lopez vs Lopez’. To revisit the previous episode, clickhere.
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Over the course of the past three seasons, the hit NBC series, Lopez vs Lopez, has offered up some incredible lessons regarding how a parent and a child can heal their fractured relationship. Courtesy of some powerful moments between George and Mayan Lopez, many of which are inspired by their own real-life journey. Since it is no secret that their relationship was strained for many years, and well, seeing them grow together through storytelling, has added real gravity to this show and its lessons. To the point where anything family related now holds our attention and that likely helped in the decision to expand the show’s explorations on family matters, during this week’s episode.

Because there are others in the Lopez-Van Bryan household that have parental issues that need to be healed, such as Quinten, who we learned has some deep-rooted issues with his father in ‘Lopez vs In-Laws’. For in this particular tale, Sam and Ruthie Van Bryant dropped by to check in, and see what was happening with the wedding, and while Quinten has spoken before about some friction with his dad, the extent of it was laid out in here in detail. In that, Quinten had never received the approval of his father but was expected to constantly impress him and wow him. All so he could receive silence when he needed more, and that made Quinten, a tad reserved around his father. To the point where he was afraid to properly communicate his feelings and needs.

Which was problematic here, mainly because… mom and dad were bringing a bunch of people to the wedding, and costs were ballooning and scaring George and well, he was hoping that maybe the Van Bryan side, and their riches would help out. That of course, put Quinten in a pickle. Because then he would have to tell his father he needed help, which would make him vulnerable and that was unacceptable. So, he took some sour advice from Oscar and just plain lied and set in motion a bevy of the jokes and a lot of the chaos in this tale, as he tried to appease all sides. But eventually, his lie was revealed and forgiven, and it also brought forth confrontation. Wherein Ruthie stepped in and made it clear that Sam had to stop with those traditionally stoic values and embrace his son, embrace his success and be there for him in ways he hadn’t before.

Because that… is the only way a family moves forward and truly, support is what is really manly and strong, thankfully Quinten received that, and that brought forth, just an amazing story. One that explored how generational trauma, and toxic masculinity has many different forms. Which in this case, involved ‘tough love’ and pride, and all the silly ‘be strong’ stuff that men are fed from a young age, and of course… how we overcome it. Which involves calling it out, putting a stop to it and coming to understand what others need, and it was just great to see another family lesson come into play. One that was once again relatable and important, since so many men are in Quinten’s shoes and caught between two worlds because of their parents’ strange attitudes regarding how we should present ourselves.

Which brought forth, a brilliant story in the end. One that once again reminded us of the majesty of this show and how it is truly about healing, and it was one… that really was quite hilarious. Because the food tasting scene was some top-tier comedy for certain, and Oscar’s journey here was the stuff of legend. Especially that end around that he pulled at the end of the story. Plus, the whole peace sign gag from Chance, and Oscar was downright amazing and well… all this episode does is leave us eager for more. More of the comedy, more of the lessons, and more of a show… that simply gets it. That simply knows how to teach us about life and the things we are afraid to talk about and confront, and it will be fascinating to see what amazing lessons and moments await us come next week. Until then.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 2605 of ‘Law & Order: Special Victims Unit’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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It is definitely safe to say, that scams have evolved in the age of the computer. For now, unsavory individuals can use people’s lack of knowledge of technology to sucker them into handing over their entire bank account. Not to mention, phone scams are getting more advanced and even online dating, is now subject to the evils of scammers. Because anyone that’s used a dating app will tell you that now and again, someone they thought was a lovely individual, suddenly asked them for money or tried to scam them. Leaving us to wonder what’s still sacred when it comes to scamming and just how bad it could get. Especially on the dating apps since love, makes you silly.

Well, it just so happens that the next episode of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, takes the time to explore that very question. A feat that ‘Economics of Shame’ accomplished by introducing us to a big-time reporter named Kelsey who… hit the jackpot dating wise. For a guy she met online was sweet, caring, paid attention to her and her needs and basically swept her off of her feet. To the point where she was taking part in romantic acts that she normally didn’t. Such as sending a spicy picture or two to him… and then things went south real quick. In that, he suddenly threatened her with the release of those photos, and a recording he made of them being intimate… unless she paid him fifty grand.

Which put her in the darkest place imaginable, and had it not been for Captain Benson, who knows what would have happened. But Benson was able to cool things down and take on the case, which involved a disturbing extortion ring. Wherein the victim, someone with money and someone with a lot to lose… fell in ‘love’ with an actor. Who would basically take them on the same ride they took Kelsey, and since speaking up meant trouble… few said a word. But Benson was determined to find the parties responsible and bring them in. Thankfully, through some clever sting operations, they were finally face to face with a pair of brothers that were happy with this work and had desire in stopping this quest. In fact, they scheduled the release of Kelsey’s ‘penalty’, threatening her job.

But thankfully, the team did get everyone behind bars, and they were able to press charges and Benson figured out how spin this to save Kelsey’s career. Bringing to a close, one ugly case. One that informed us… that this kind of scam could be an utter disaster with the right person in charge of it. For with a good tech team and some smarts, they could indeed pull off what happened here and hurt so many in the process. Which gave rise to a chilling episode in a way, one that informed us we are in a brave new world and a strange new frontier. Where perhaps… we should take our time and really dig into the life and times of someone we meet online, just to ensure that they aren’t what Kelsey ran into. But that will take time since online dating promises us… love right now.

Which is an important lesson from an episode that featured more. Since it really did inform us that scammers love to prey upon a lack of knowledge or a particular need and there’s a lot, we can learn from that. Not to mention it also spoke to how we should be careful as to what we share online so we don’t become targets. Which is also easier said than done since we share with the world and that’s a thrill. But all that aside, this was a great episode through and through. One that really offered up an engaging case with high stakes and some hideous violations of privacy and hopefully the lessons will stick for the audience and those still looking for love out there in the digital world, are a touch more vigilant when everything seems a little too good to be true. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 2405 of ‘Law & Order’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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One particular hope we all harbor when it comes to the children of the world, is that they won’t come to harm, and they will be given every chance to succeed in life. Because they are the future, the next generation. One that will hopefully be the one to rise above our mistakes and shortcomings to make the world a better place. So, we try and do our best to protect them, guide them, and give them what they need. Even when their circumstances are rough, hence the creation of foster programs and school programs to save them. But alas, despite our best efforts, our hope won’t always be fulfilled and some kids, just slip through the cracks. Sometimes because of the system… and other reasons.

All of which was put on display in the next episode of Law & Order on NBC. Courtesy of a complex murder case in ‘Report Card’. One that at first glance appeared to be nothing more than a flex from a rich musician. For a teacher, that also worked for a ride share company, was gunned down in front of his home, and the footage present in his camera made it seem like one of the world’s biggest artists did this. But his alibi checked out and nothing seemed to add up, until the team learned that this teacher, was vilified and despised by some of his students for being a hard teacher. In fact, one particular student wrote songs about blasting him and that brought forth the hunt for a thirteen-year-old teenager named Anthony.

Who once caught… admitted to the fact that he killed his teacher, but was unaware the gun was loaded. He just wanted his teacher to back off and let him live his life. But that went south, and well, Shaw had concerns with about what was to follow. Because there was a chance Anthony would be tried as an adult, and he hated that idea. After all, Shaw we learned, had his own experiences with the foster care system and just wanted this kid to have a fair chance at life, and others were concerned as well about how all of this came to fruition. Prompting the DA’s office to go soft on Anthony and instead prosecute the principal of the school for being neglectful in preventing this death, since he had knowledge that Anthony had a gun, and did nothing.

Which really made it seem as though, Anthony was finally looking at a fair shake. But alas, evidence doesn’t lie, and Shaw found out, Anthony loaded the gun and made this choice. Putting him in a rattled place. Because that meant, Anthony was looking at a truly hopeless future, and that broke his heart. Because the poor kid tried his best to fit in and clearly needed a home that cared for him differently and made him feel as though he belonged and as though he was more than the sum of a statistic. And all Shaw wanted to do was seem him go on the right track. But there was no hiding this truth, and that led to a very bleak ending. One where the principal cut a deal for his mistakes and where Anthony was put on trial and lost to the system. 

All of which gave rise… to a stunning episode for certain. One that truly reminded us… well… that we aren’t doing enough for children in this world. Sure, society talks a big talk and claims to have all the fixes in the world. But this has happened in life, and will happen again, because the system is deeply flawed and without proper funding and attention. So, this is what we get. Which really was a sobering message regarding the system and a reminder… that we collectively have to do more. For hope, and thoughts and prayers do nothing. Only action and activism move the needle forward and hopefully, this serves as a fine eye opener to what needs to happen next, to give kids in a similar position a fighting chance. Because it isn’t right to say, that not all of them make it, not in the richest and most resourceful country in the world. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 205 of ‘Found’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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It really is quite amazing what the hit NBC series, Found, is accomplishing right now from a storytelling standpoint. For not only is this show one of the few out there that bothers to offer consequences for its characters actions, but it is able to do so while still keeping the Sir storyline active and integrated into a show where such a character should fade away. Not to mention, it continues to surprise us left and right and well, all of these amazing elements are top of mind today, simply because they were all put on display during this week’s episode. In fact, ‘Missing While Presumed Dead’ wasted little time in getting down to the surprises.

For this particular story opened up with a pleasant one. In that, Sir didn’t manage to break into Zeke’s place and re-kidnap Lacey. She simply had a panic attack and struggled to handle it and went outside for some air. Which was indeed a relief because she’s been through it and doesn’t need to suffer like that again, and well, with her back in the fold, everyone turned their attention to a shocking cold case of sorts. In that, a young woman that went missing ages ago and was written off by the police, was back on everyone’s radar. For her son was discovered and her family wanted justice and at the very least, to find her… which led to some traditional moments in the story, wherein the team worked to uncover her location with mixed success.

That is until Sir opted to send over more data regarding how best to find her. Which allowed for the team to understand that she went missing by someone who coveted her and her son and wanted to be the father figure the little man did not have. So, he took them both. But thankfully, Gaby’s team handled their business. But truly, what made this episode shine, was the stuff that happened in between the find. Since we came to learn that Gabi has been impacted in an unhealthy way by her experiences with Sir, since it was made evident that she can conduct conversations with him in her head when the moment is right, and that is of concern, as is the fact that he is still out there and still searching for the right way to lure Gaby into his master plan.

All of which was a seamless way to blend his madness into this story, which as mentioned before, had consequences on display. Because Trent was done with outside consultants doing his job for him, well… he was done with seeing Gabi really, and being reminded of what she’s done. So, he activated a task force to do her work. Not to mention, Margaret was not herself in this tale and still struggling because of the violation of trust that came forth. To the point where she stopped going to therapy and eventually, took part in some outright unfortunate actions. Since she opted to do something to get arrested. What exactly, will be revealed later of course, but it is undoubtedly related to the fallout of Gabi’s decision to lock away Sir.

Which brought about, one amazing episode. One that truly packed all of that into a single episode. Which is just incredible to say the last, because not every show can pull that off. But this one can, courtesy of great writing and truly, every single second of this episode was riveting and enjoyable and it continues to build up amazing tension for the future. More so from the group. Because Trent overstepping bounds like this, while legal, is a real slap in the face that will cause conflict, and Margaret is a mess and in need of help and some kind of a win or measure of trust. But above all, Sir is still out there, plotting and scheming for a life with Gabi, and it will be interesting to see if this chaos helps him to win or if this team can overcome and unify to put away a monster. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 503 of ‘Star Trek: Lower Decks’. To revisit the Season Five Premiere, click here.
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It is definitely safe to say that the reasons that people tune into Star Trek stories are endless in nature. For some really do adore the characters and want to be alongside them in their journeys. Others love the top-tier action that plays out because the shows and movies absolutely deliver when it comes to that, and there are countless examples to back to that up. Not to mention, just seeing humanity in a better place than it is now, is quite the motivator to tune in, and oddly… it is the human side of the story that perhaps binds us all when it comes to reasons to tune in.

Mainly because, there’s so much to relate to in these stories, and so much vulnerability on display. The kind that informs us that while as a species we’ve reached the stars and accomplished wonders and unity, that the little things that make us, us, haven’t disappeared. For the franchise loves to show our flaws and show us a world where support brings us back down to terra firma when we lose our way. If anything, that wondrous aspect of the franchise is top of mind today, simply because it was put on full display in the next episode of Star Trek: Lower Decks. A feat that ‘The Best Exotic Nanite Hotel’ accomplished, through two key journeys on a faraway cruise ship.

For the U.S.S. Cerritos was called to action to not only remove a nanite cluster that was feasting on electronics on the ship. But there was also the expectation that they bring home an Admiral that went AWOL and disappeared within the ship’s many luxuries. Which was handled by Lieutenant Boimler, Commander Ransom and Lieutenant Commander Billups, and well… Boims was nervous about this mission. Because he was still a little rattled by that encounter with his multiverse self and was trying to figure out how best to move up the ladder, and rumors that the only way that might happen is if Boims committed to humiliation because that’s what Ransom wanted in order to be impressed, only added to his nerves. As though he would never be anything but a joke. One where he was tempted by the Admiral to join him until Ransom pointed out he wanted Boims on the mission because he was so wiry and brave, and a valued officer. Which allowed for Boims to bring the Admiral back to the Cerritos.

Meanwhile, Mariner and the other Lower Deckers, were tasked with bringing down Glumpus, as Ruthy so affectionately called the nanite cluster, and well… that went poorly. Since every trap helped for it to grow and because Mariner was out of sorts as well. Mainly because Jennifer came along on this mission, and she was eager to be lovey-dovey as though she and Mariner hadn’t split up. Even though they had, or at least… Mariner thought they had. Which brought about a little cat and mouse game as this duo worked to save the day. One where Jennifer made it clear, she wanted to hear it from Mariner that it was all over. So that they each had closure, and after they finished capturing ol’ Glumpus, they had that, and both of these stories truly hammered home the lesson in a beautiful manner.
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Since Boims’ journey really did examine how we sometimes lose our way and lose our confidence, no matter how many great things we’ve done. In large part because the future is so unpredictable and because… it’s hard to see the good things we do when we are always pushing toward a goal. But having friends and respected co-workers remind us of how far we’ve come is always wondrous. Not to mention, we sometimes lose sight of the fact that we need to properly communicate with people, because that can cause harm and cause trouble when we don’t do it, and Mariner was reminded of that, and while she hates confrontation, and closure, and well… feelings in general, she knows she has to start discussing those feels and be open and it’s okay that she hasn’t yet. Because we are always learning.

All of which made for a delightful episode, one that of course had some delightfully funny moments. After all, Boims’ shenanigans were amazing, and T’Lyn’s love of Krog and his music was just a magnificent running joke, one that paid off in spades. Plus, it was to see the multiverse story isn’t done yet, and it was great to see the Admiral get a second chance. In fact, that was the best way to wrap up this wonderful lesson. For this showcased a world where people can make mistakes and enjoy forgiveness and a chance to be better after. To find their way again and be supported in doing so. Which is a great future for certain, one worth celebrating, and it will be interesting to see what other wondrous moments involving the best of parts of us, await as the final season of this beloved series plays out. Until next time.