Written by John Edward Betancourt  THE DAY OF THE JACKAL -- Pictured: "The Day of the Jackal" Key Art -- (Photo by: Peacock) It’s been quite the week for the creative team behind the new Peacock series, The Day of the Jackal. For not only has the show receive incredible critical acclaim (read our review, here), but people have been tuning in and buzzing about the show’s amazing acting, incredible action and downright engaging story. In fact, people have been so excited to watch the first six episodes of the show that it should come as no surprise that Peacock offered up some amazing new about the future of the series.
In that, The Day of the Jackal is going to receive a second season. Allowing for this incredible story to expand even further, and that really is wonderful news to say the least. Because truly, this show is downright phenomenal and captivates us in ways that action stories don’t always do, and to properly celebrate this wondrous announcement, here are all the details on the show’s season two renewal, courtesy of Peacock. See the Renewal Announcement Video: HERE.
ABOUT THE DAY OF THE JACKAL SEASON ONE: Synopsis: An unrivaled and highly elusive lone assassin, the Jackal (Eddie Redmayne), makes his living carrying out hits for the highest fee. But following his latest kill, he meets his match in a tenacious British intelligence officer (Lashana Lynch) who starts to track down the Jackal in a thrilling cat-and-mouse chase across Europe, leaving destruction in its wake. Cast: Eddie Redmayne, Lashana Lynch, Úrsula Corberó, Charles Dance, Richard Dormer, Chukwudi Iwuji, Lia Williams, Khalid Abdalla, Eleanor Matsuura, Jonjo O’Neill, Sule Rimi Executive Producers: Gareth Neame and Nigel Marchant (Carnival Films), Sam Hoyle (Sky Studios), Sue Naegle, Ronan Bennett, Brian Kirk, Eddie Redmayne Co-Executive Producers: Marianne Buckland, Lashana Lynch Writer: Ronan Bennett Directors: Brian Kirk (101-103), Anthony Philipson (104-105), Paul Wilmshurst (106-108), Anu Menon (109-110) Production Company: Carnival Films Studio: Universal International Studios, a division of Universal Studio Group Format: Drama, 10 Ep x 60 Min
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Written by John Edward Betancourt  Key Art for ‘The Couple Next Door’ Courtesy of STARZ. It is definitely safe to say that television fans everywhere have been eagerly awaiting more news regarding the upcoming STARZ series, The Couple Next Door. Simply because it boasts an amazing cast and a fascinating story. One that promises to explore some dark corners of the human condition, and that always fascinates and well… STARZ is well aware of what the fans want and that is why this week they were kind enough to offer up quite the surprise for all. In that, they took the time to release a new trailer for the show, updated details, and key art and the premiere date for this series. All so we can enjoy another sampling of what this show has to offer and to prepare ourselves for the powerful journey that lie ahead. One that begins on January 17, 2025, and since you’re here because you must know more… here are those gifts for you to enjoy, courtesy of STARZ. ‘STARZ has announced a January 17 premiere date for the six-part psychological drama, “The Couple Next Door,” following the season seven finale of “Outlander,” and released the key art and trailer for the deliciously dark new thriller. The series, starring Sam Heughan (“Outlander,” “Suspect”), Eleanor Tomlinson (“The Outlaws,” “Poldark”), Jessica De Gouw (“Pennyworth,” Our Man from Jersey) and Alfred Enoch (Tigers, “How to Get Away with Murder”) will be available to stream weekly on Fridays on the STARZ app, all STARZ streaming and on-demand platforms. The grass isn’t always greener in this seemingly idyllic neighborhood where danger lurks behind twitching curtains and secret fantasies and desires don’t stay hidden for long. “The Couple Next Door” explores the claustrophobia of suburbia and the fallout of chasing your deepest desires. When Evie (Tomlinson) and Pete (Enoch) move into the upscale neighborhood with the dream of starting a family, they soon find friendship in the shape of the couple next door, alpha traffic cop Danny (Heughan) and his wife, glamorous yoga instructor Becka (De Gouw). As time goes on, these two couples get increasingly close to each other and one fateful night, become sexually entangled in a way that will change their lives forever. The new trailer shows an innocent Evie and Pete being welcomed to their new neighborhood where it seems someone is always watching behind the curtains. A curious Evie asks questions about Danny and Becka’s open relationship confessing, “we always want what we don’t have” while Danny warns “it could be dangerous.” The key art emphasizes the entangled and complicated relationship dynamics between the foursome. “The Couple Next Door” will also air weekly on the STARZ linear platform on Fridays at 9:00 pm ET/PT in the U.S. and Canada. It previously aired on Channel 4 in the UK. Directed by Dries Vos (“Suspect,” “Professor T”) and written by David Allison (Marcella, “Bedlam”), the six-part series is an addictive, emotional roller coaster and looks at how we never know what goes on behind closed doors. Jo McGrath, Walter Iuzzolino, Alison Kee and Dries Vos serve as executive producers and the producer is Jennifer Burnet. The series is produced by Eagle Eye Drama and distributed worldwide by Beta Film. THE COUPLE NEXT DOOR ON SOCIAL: Instagram: @STARZ Facebook: STARZ TikTok: @STARZ Join the conversation with #TheCoupleNextDoor and #STARZ About STARZ STARZ (www.starz.com), a Lionsgate company, is a leading global media streaming platform committed to delivering premium content that amplifies narratives by, about and for women and underrepresented audiences. STARZ is home to the highly rated and first-of-its-kind STARZ app that offers the ability to stream or download STARZ premium content, as well as the flagship domestic STARZ® service, including STARZ ENCORE, 17 premium pay TV channels, and the associated on-demand and online services. In 2018, STARZ launched its international premium streaming platform STARZPLAY, now LIONSGATE+, to provide subscribers access to bold, curated storytelling. LIONSGATE+, coupled with the STARZPLAY ARABIA joint venture in MENA and Lionsgate Play in South and Southeast Asia, has a footprint that extends across the globe. STARZ and LIONSGATE+ are available across digital OTT platforms and multichannel video distributors, including cable operators, satellite television providers, and telecommunications companies around the world. In February 2021, STARZ launched #TakeTheLead, a multi-faceted and innovative inclusion initiative expanding its existing efforts to improve representation on screen, behind the camera and throughout the company.’ Written by John Edward Betancourt Still from ‘Ronja, the Robber’s Daughter’ Courtesy of Viaplay.
There was a time when fantasy stories ruled the day. For everywhere you turned there were stories about the fantastical. The kind that featured dragons, wizards and magics that ignited something special within all of us. For they reminded us of simpler times and days when we believed that the fantastical could be real. But alas, despite the wonder these stories provided, they faded from the marketplace in just about every way imaginable. Replaced instead by young adult stories about dystopia on the bookshelves and big movies about superheroes and television shifted to take full advantage of the chance to tell stories about the human condition like never before.
But ironically enough, television’s push to offer us more and give us all the stories we can handle, has allowed for such stories to start to return to the marketplace. Since we are indeed seeing shows that are looking into magic and the fantastical again. To remind us of the wonder of letting our imagination loose and pondering upon the impossible, and it just so happens, that Viaplay is now home to a supremely special show in that vein for certain. For recently, Ronja, the Robber’s Daughter debuted on the streamer, and this series, one based off of Astrid Lindgren’s hit books… not only does the book justice but truly immerses us in a world of the fantastical in a manner that few stories in this genre have ever managed to accomplish. Thanks to its unique and refreshing plot. For this is a story that introduces us to a young girl named Ronja. Who lives in a world where incredible things roam about. For in the forest just beyond her home, are stunning creatures that defy imagination and defy what we know of the world. Which truly does capture, the wonder of this genre. Since we are privy to beings that are unlike anything else we’ve ever seen on television and harbor personalities and quirks that make them lively and interesting and dangerous and enchanting, all at once. And that… is what brings the majesty of this genre back to life and they are integral to the story and wow us every time they’re on-screen courtesy of magnificent special effects that work. But alas, the wonder of being around such beings and such an incredible forest has drifted us away from how exactly we find ourselves lost within the story. Well as it turns out, the show’s humanity it what makes it so great. For this is a story where magic and the fantastical are part of everyday life. A life that harbors so much of what we know and love about our own adventures. Since this is a story about family, what it means to be born into circumstance, and what it means to deal with the foolish and close-minded nature of family. Not to mention in many ways, this is a coming of age story, one that showcases the wonder we all experience when we discover the world beyond our front lawn, and that in many ways, allows for the magic in this tale to serve as an allegory for the wonder and the terror of growing up, of the incredible things we discover when we open our eyes and see the world around us. All of which makes, for a magnificent story. One that is genuinely human and relatable in so many ways, and filled with beauty, and action and adventure and a tenderness that you just don’t find in fantasy stories. But that’s why this one is of note, and why it is one you must see if fantasy stories have captivated you in the past. For this blends the majesty of what we love about the genre, with the majesty of modern storytelling to give us a stunningly beautiful story. One that captivates and engages and leaves us eager for more, all courtesy of a tale that breaks new ground for the genre, and one that we’ve been light upon when it comes to the details. Simply because spoiling anything here would be cruel and because, you can enjoy the journey right now on Viaplay, and we hope you give it a look. Because this story is a true gift and a magnificent throwback to when the fantastical ruled the day. Watch ‘Ronja, the Robber’s Daughter’
Written by John Edward Betancourt LAW & ORDER: SPECIAL VICTIMS UNIT -- "Cornered" Episode 26008 -- Pictured: Peter Scanavino as A.D.A Dominick "Sonny" Carisi Jr. -- (Photo by: Peter Kramer/NBC)
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 2608 of ‘Law & Order: Special Victims Unit’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
There is a hard belief in our world that police officers and those involved in law enforcement in any capacity, are immune from the struggles from the world. Such as having crimes committed against them, and there is merit to that line of thinking. After all, some of them, make enough money to live in an insulated world where their kids go to great private schools and they’re in the office night and day, and avoid the ugly stuff. Not to mention, special training should allow for a cop, for instance, to recognize trouble when it arrives and be able to avoid it or quell it before it brings them harm. But this view… isn’t one hundred percent accurate in the slightest. Because anyone can be a victim of crime at any time, even officers of the law. As evidenced by this week’s episode of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit on NBC. Although, it did not seem as though ‘Cornered’ was going to focus on that. Since this episode opened up in a supremely bright manner. With ADA Carisi going about his day, getting coffee from his favorite local deli and he even made a second voyage there to pick up some flowers for one of his staff members. But that is when this day took quite the turn, out of the blue, as days where people run into crime often do. In that, his favorite deli was being held up, and he was forced to try and cool the situation down. But the arrival of Benson, who was expecting him at an important meeting and received some advice on where to go to find him… came to discover he was in distress and that led to a harrowing story. One that was tense, terrifying, and deeply explored the lesson, and what being in the middle of a crime is like… and its impact upon even the toughest of people. Which the story accomplished by taking us through an hourlong nightmare. Wherein Carisi was held at gunpoint with two women who were also in the deli, and its dying cashier. Where he did his best to delay an all-out breach to preserve life and get Boyd, and Deonte, the perpetrators, to stand down, with minimal luck. For Boyd was a madman and crossed all kinds of lines in this story in an effort to stick it to the man and enjoy life the way he saw it, and that brought about moments that made us deeply uncomfortable and pushed Carisi to his breaking point. Because despite his genius as a lawyer, and his past as an NYPD cop, he was helpless here. He was just a guy that could only hope for the best and prepare for the worst and that made all of us wonder if he was going to make it out of this nightmare alive or if something awful was about to happen. But thankfully, Benson’s attempts to trade places with her dear friend, and Carisi’s own genius as a lawyer, led to resolution of this madness. Because eventually he was able to plant enough seeds to get Deonte to turn on Boyd and blast him, and that led to a raid and the arrest of Deonte. Who was going to pay for this for certain and that… seemed like a happy ending but it was anything but. Simply because, there was a loss of innocent life, one would be forever changed by Boyd’s actions and Carisi, was broken by this. Because he was now a victim, a statistic and that which he tried to prevent and despite his claims of strength and claims of stability, it was clear, he was transformed for the worse, and that a long road lie ahead for this brilliant prosecutor. One that would require so much support and so much love for him to heal. All of which made for a stunning midseason finale. Because we so rarely understand the fact that anyone can be a victim of crime, even those as talented as Carisi. Because crime doesn’t care about rank, experience and standing. It’s just a force of nature that rips lives apart and shatters minds, as it did here, and that was a sobering lesson to learn. Courtesy of a story that put us on the edge of our seats from beginning to end. Simply because we did not see this coming, nor did we expect this episode to go as hard as it did. But this series will absolutely let loose when the moment is right, and it certainly did here, and truly it is safe to say that we are all worried about Carisi and will be counting down the days until the show’s return in 2025. To see if this brave man can make peace with being part of the problem he is trying so desperately to solve or if trauma and fear will make him hesitant to live life to the fullest. Until next time. Watch ‘Law & Order: Special Victims Unit’Written by John Edward Betancourt LAW & ORDER -- "Bad Apple" Episode 24008 -- Pictured: (l-r) Fredric Lehne as Captain Greg Stockwell, Maura Tierney as Lt. Jessica Brady, Reid Scott as Det. Vincent Riley, Mehcad Brooks as Det. Jalen Shaw -- (Photo by: Virginia Sherwood/NBC)
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 2408 of ‘Law & Order’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
One particular conundrum we all hope to avoid in the workplace, is being the person that has to decide whether or not to speak up about something unethical or illegal happening around us. In part because, no one wants to deal with that and the drama it entails, we just want to go to work and do a good job to feed our families and our passions. But also… because… it’s a hard call to make. For while we know the right thing is the way to go, it also causes harm and chaos and can make life difficult until the drama passes, and we don’t want to deal with that. But dread or no, that moment will likely come, and we should err on the side of what’s right for reasons that are outlined in the fall finale of Law & Order on NBC. For ‘Bad Apple’ saw quite the case come into everyone’s lap. In that, a good cop named Harrison was found dead one fine morning in the city and that of course, rattled the NYPD and forced Lieutenant Brady to take point on this case. Because this deceased cop was from her former precinct and she felt compelled to bring justice to the fallen and for a time, it seemed as though this would be an easy one to solve. For Harrison was recently involved in a big drug raid and since he helped chase the kingpin off, he would be target number one for revenge, so everyone needed to find the kingpin. Which they did through a citywide manhunt and in the process, recovered the murder weapon. Making this one an open and shut matter. But Brady had concerns. Because something in her gut told her this was wrong, especially since Harrison was known to be a whistle blower and well, she began to wonder if something greater was at work. Something that involved Detective Miles Brandt, the deceased’s shady partner. So, she carefully set up a trap, one that worked to a tee and put him on trial, but that… did not go as smoothly as expected. For the brotherhood built in Brady’s old unit wanted no part of the truth, and even the captain, who knew all about the ugliness that happened here, had little interest in opening up that can of worms. He just wanted to coast to retirement and forget that Brandt was a dirty cop that took money from busts and felt the need to exact revenge upon his partner for doing the right thing by speaking up. Which put Brady in that difficult place. Because she… had heard about the illegal things that Brandt did from Harrison as well, and also made a point to sweep that under the rug, as per the brotherhood expected, and that left her wondering… what she could do to finally set things right and bring about justice for the fallen. So… she took the stand, and she made it clear that Brandt was a dirty cop and committed the ultimate crime and that was enough to get a conviction and put that scumbag behind bars. But alas, there was a price to pay, because Brady did let this slide for far too long and that brought Internal Affairs into her office with questions. The kind that might bring her great trouble when the show returns in 2025. But what mattered more, is that Brady did the right thing, and she truly made a point to teach us… why we have to do the right thing when this conundrum arrives. So that we don’t cover anything up and find ourselves regretting doing things right, and to not embolden the wrong people to keep going and escalate. And regardless of the consequences, we will feel good about choosing the right side, and that made for a powerful episode. One that finally showcased Brady and her past, and what she stands for after keeping her in the dark for most of this new season, and this set the stage for more potential change in the office. Since we don’t know if she will survive this mess and if she can lead a team well since the Blue Wall tends to hold grudges. But while we wait to see, we can revel in a smart and engaging tale, and a quality fall finale to a show that continues to impress after all these years. Until next time. Watch ‘Law & Order’
Written by John Edward Betancourt FOUND -- "Missing While Haunted" Episode 208 -- Pictured: (l-r) Brett Dalton as Detective Mark Trent, Gabrielle Walsh as Lacey, Shanola Hampton as Gabi -- (Photo by: Matt Miller/NBC)
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 208 of ‘Found’. To revisit the previous episode, click here. This article also contains discussion of suicide ideation, which may be triggering for some individuals.
When the going gets tough in life, and it brings great strife, there comes a point where we find ourselves… at a crossroads. Wherein we are so tired, and overwhelmed that we must make quite the choice. In that, we can either surrender to the chaos and let is wash us away and see where we end up when its waves recede… or we can take a moment and reflect and understand what we are up against and fight it. Confront it. Deal with it at last so we can get on with our lives, and well, choosing the fighting option is a tough one for certain. Because so much goes into finding the positive way forward and for proof… look no further than the fall finale of Found on NBC. For ‘Missing While Haunted’ saw the team at their absolute lowest. After all, Zeke was still under investigation and Margaret was a mess emotionally with her normal routine being ripped away. Dhan was of course on edge about his relationship faltering and Gabi was still haunted by the nightmare that happened to be Sir and her uncertain future. All of which put the team in a sour place mentally, and left them wondering if it was just time to surrender to the waves, come what may. But the arrival of a young girl, one whose mother went missing and was likely kidnapped by someone her family knew, gave them enough focus to solve a case and help them understand how to stand tall and fight what was haunting them. Because they came to learn, that the little girl’s mother, was being plagued by her own demons. The kind that came forth through schizophrenia, but were demons none the less, and she had in many ways, surrendered to her illness and let the waves wash over her. Since she made up the man that was chasing her and causing her harm. To cope with the reality that she wasn’t doing anything to improve her current situation. But the end result was fear, a fractured family and a long road ahead and well, seeing that in action, helped everyone realize, that they too… were haunted in their own ways and were letting their past and their own demons get in the way of making them happy and moving their lives forward, and that led to some powerful lessons. The kind that helped everyone to understand… that they didn’t have to go this alone and should not. Because they were great friends and took good care of one another. And they should support each other in their struggles, as they stood against them and confronted them. Which brought about incredible support and unity, and an understanding it was time to let go of anger and division. Which allowed for Dhan to keep Margaret from harming herself by walking into the water to die and it brought him close to his love and prompted them to fight for tomorrow and find resolution, and this lesson also prompted Gabi… to finally face the monster in her closet. In part because Zeke got the letter that Trent had, but also because… she realized it was time, and that brought us to quite the cliffhanger for certain. One that saw Gabi return to old haunts to face the greatest ghost of all. All of which made for an amazing episode. Since it found a way to bring all the conflicts and fights to a head in a healthy and beautiful manner. So, this team could find resolution and find peace and start to heal at last. Granted, it will take time, and it won’t be easy. But they’re facing their monsters, their ghosts and that’s just incredible, and it was nice to see this play out. Because it’s been hard to watch them all fight and spit fire at one another. Because they’re a family of sorts and truly complement one another and this could not have come at a better time. Since Gabi is about to fight an ugly fight. One that will rattle her and harm her and leave her in a weakened place, and that unity will help heal her and remind her of the strength she has inspired in others when the show returns in 2025. Until next time. Watch ‘Found’Written by John Edward Betancourt Tim Robbins and Common as Bernard Holland and Robert Sims in Episode 202 of ‘Silo’ – ‘Control’. (Photo Courtesy of Apple.)
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 202 of ‘Silo’. To revisit the Season 2 Premiere, click here.
While the season two premiere of the hit Apple TV+ series, Silo, answered a great deal of questions for us, since it helped us to learn about the fate of Juliette Nichols and the fate of another Silo, while giving us a glimpse in the awful world that humanity now inhabits, it also, left plenty of questions in the air. After all, we still have no clue what brought Planet Earth to this hideous state, and why the past is considered to be such a valuable secret, and we also were left wondering… what happened to the Silo that Juliette left behind? Because she was on camera when she walked over the hill, and what impact would have on those who watched that happen on their screens? Well as it turns out, the next episode of the show wasted little time in answering what happened within the Silo left behind and ‘Order’ quickly informed us that perhaps this episode should have been entitled, ‘Chaos’. To better reflect what happened in those moments after. Because all ten thousand of the Silo’s inhabitants watched in horror as Juliette lived, and that brought about… a host of emotions from the people, none of them good. Because just like that, people wanted answers, and there was a real sense that a riot similar to the one that happened in the other Silo was about to take place. For there was just fury on every level from the souls of these individuals. But that’s when the show earned its original title for this episode. Mainly because, some parties tried to restore order amongst the people, such as Martha. Who flat out hosed down the mob and informed people to just go home or get back to work. Because none of this was worthwhile and she knew violence would solve nothing. Not to mention, Bernard was forced to get creative to cool things off. Such as implementing a curfew, preparing a speech and reaching out to every person he deemed a resource in the Silo to cool the rising temperature of fury. Which helped us to learn a lot about how the Founders expected to maintain control in the event of a riot, and it even revealed a troubled past between he and Judge Meadows and well, this did indeed give Bernard enough time to execute a fascinating plan.  Harriet Walter as Martha Walker in Episode 202 of ‘Silo’ – ‘Control’. (Photo Courtesy of Apple.)
One where he basically constructed, the biggest pile of B.S. ever assembled in this Silo. To distract and deflect and make everyone believe that a better tomorrow was on the horizon for everyone. Since his speech spoke to a new tape that would let people venture out and find answers, and it was so inspiring that he kept hecklers at bay. But what made this such nonsense, was the sheer fact that Bernard used spy technology to learn about the tape from Martha and her friends, and he paid the hecklers to make it real and of course, promised that tape and technology to make everyone feel as though the dawn of a new era of hope was on the horizon. But hell, it worked, and there was control in the Silo at last, but a shaky one at best.
Because in the down below, Shirley continued to assemble people in secret, and sow discontent and demand for the truth. To the point where Martha tried her best to point out the foolish nature of this demand and how quickly it could backfire if Shirley did not get what she wanted. But fury was still growing, and even Bernard knew this. In fact, he even told Meadows and Sims that this only bought them a slice of time. Enough to plan ahead because soon… people would want out and want answers and he was shockingly right. Since Judge Meadows even spoke to her own desire to get hold of a suit like Juliette’s so she could step out into the world and see it for herself. But what matters most here, is that this episode made it clear, that chaos was what Juliette left behind and created inadvertently by stepping over that hill. Because it rocked the foundations of the Silo, and truly put Bernard in a difficult spot. Because villain or no, the burden is now upon him to maintain order and a way forward and who knows how he will accomplish that. Because if there is one aspect of our humanity that has always been present and likely will remain ages into the future, it would be that once we truly want something… we will stop at nothing to have it. And now, there are people in the Silo that are starting to feel that when it comes to the truth, and it is only a matter of time before chaos ascends and who knows what will come of that. Until next time. Watch ‘Silo’
Written by John Edward Betancourt Gabrielle Ruiz, Tawny Newsome and Saba Omayoon as Lieutenant T’Lyn, Lieutenant Beckett Mariner, and Ensign Olly in Episode 506 of ‘Star Trek: Lower Decks’ – ‘Of Gods and Angles’. (Photo Courtesy of Paramount+.)
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 506 of ‘Star Trek: Lower Decks’. To revisit the previous episode, clickhere.
For the most part, Star Trek: Lower Decks on Paramount+, has shied away from looking at an overall, overreaching theme for a respective season. It’s opted instead of offer up encapsulated lessons within its episodes, a la the golden era of the series when TNG, and DS9, and Voyager, did something similar. And if by chance it has done something serialized, it’s made sure to pepper in just enough of that plot thread, so it never overtakes the week’s central themes and ideas. But the fifth and final season of the show is doing something quite different for certain. For it really is working toward something greater for the Lower Deckers this year. In that, it really wants to explore what growth looks like for people. Starfleet officers to be specific here, but growth none the less, and how we do it, and how we get there, via a serialized thread, and that was put on display in a unique manner in ‘Of Gods and Angles’. For this week’s episode featured a diplomatic mission for the crew of the Cerritos, wherein they were to facilitate peace talks between two species composed of energy, that were each shaped differently. For one was cubed, one was spherical, and they of course, could not get along and consistently battled over appearance. Which, let’s not mince words, was a direct shot at our current divides in the world, and a reminder that we have more in common than we know and should stop the fighting. Because Trek never shies away from a beautiful lesson. But in between that, were those growth themed plotlines. One of which involved Boims. Who was trying to live up to Bearded Boimler’s standing, and that prompted him to try and replicate what happened to ol’ Beardy Boims in the alternate universe during this mission. Which was, to befriend Dr. T’ana and join her book club, so he could start to rise through the ranks and become the great leader the other Boimy-boi turned out to be. Which was a disaster for the most part, since he pissed off the good doctor more often than not and faced her wrath often. But… a golden bolt in his butt, was enough to please the doctor since it meant she could write about it and find recognition, and that was enough for him to be happy with the end result, since it was his ‘in’ at last. But that… made for a sour lesson on growth, which we will break down in a moment.  Eugene Cordero, Jack Quaid and Noël Wells as Lieutenant Samanthan Rutherford, Lieutenant Bradward Boimler, and Lieutenant D’Vana Tendi in Episode 506 of ‘Star Trek: Lower Decks’ – ‘Of Gods and Angles’. (Photo Courtesy of Paramount+.)
Mainly because, Mariner handled the positive one. For in the midst of all this diplomatic madness, a new ensign on the ship, Olly, was causing all kinds of trouble. For she was boisterous and annoying and rarely followed protocol, and she was about to get booted off the ship and likely out of Starfleet. But Mariner thought… she could help, and she could turn this ensign’s career around. Because everyone deserved a second chance, like the one she received, and while it was tough going… because Olly was very headstrong and very closed off, Mariner eventually helped her become a hero. One that harbored some demigod powers as well, since she was a descendant of Zeus, the demigod James T. Kirk and the crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701 encountered, and well… her powers are how that bolt of energy made its way into Boims’ bum.
But what mattered more here, was that Mariner’s journey was a perfect examination of how we grow as individuals. Because there comes a day where we are no longer struggling and no longer fighting to get ahead because we got better, we became an expert and accomplish wonders now, and it is only right to pay it forward to those struggling. Because that’s what people who step into new chapters do, and it was wonderful to see that here, and realize now that the show is going to explore in this more detail as the season goes on. Plus it was delight to reflect on Mariner’s journey, and it wonderfully balanced out Boims’ journey. Which showcased that we have to forge our own path and cannot try to live up to the standards of others if we truly want to grow. Because then we are living in a shadow and not for ourselves. Hopefully, he learns that soon and shaves off that hideous beard before it gets any weirder. But that aside, this was… a lovely episode. One that let us know that these Lower Deckers are indeed becoming more and are growing before our eyes and learning about life and how to make it worthwhile and that’s lovely and bittersweet. Since it also hints, at the ending that awaits, and that perhaps new chapters await young officers that are finally coming into their own. Which is hard speculation, but the clues cannot be denied and well, while we wait to see, we can just settle in and enjoy more majesty from this wondrous final season of storytelling, one that is clearly going to continue to explore, the wonder of growth. Until next time. Watch ‘Star Trek: Lower Decks’
Written by John Edward Betancourt CHICAGO P.D. -- "Penance" Episode 12008 -- Pictured: Benjamin Levy Aguilar as Dante Torres -- (Photo by: Lori Allen/NBC)
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 1208 of ‘Chicago P.D.’ To revisit the previous episode, click here.
It is definitely safe to say, that fans of the hit NBC series, Chicago P.D., were nervous heading into this week’s fall finale. After all, a lot was on the line. For we had no clue if Cook was safe or if Gloria did something terrible to her in retaliation of her shattered love affair with Torres, and Torres for that matter… well he too was of concern. Because any way you slice it, the secret was about to come out, bringing potential devastation for his career and his freedom and thankfully, this week’s story wasted little time in letting us know if Cook was okay, and what was going to happen to Torres in the interim. A feat that ‘Penance’ accomplished, by picking up right after that loud bang went off. Wherein we came to learn that Gloria ditched Cook, but did not harm her and shortly after that… she called off the buy. To preserve her freedom of course, and well, that led… to a reckoning. Because Voight needed some answers and that put the truth on the table, whether Torres liked it or not. But at last, it was out in the open and that forced Voight to make a hard call. In that, he offered the team options on how they wanted to handle this. So, if they wanted to report this to Internal Affairs, they could. If they wanted to stop the chase and focus on the fallout of this, that was an option as well. But they could also, chase after kilos of drugs and bring down a cartel if they played their cards right and well, everyone went along with that, and the chase resumed. After of course, Voight had a gruff little chat with Torres. To get his head into the game. For he was remorseful and broken about this, and Voight needed him at his absolute best. Because this was going to be a tough takedown with Gloria knowing they were onto her. Especially after she turned down a deal to bring down the cartel for her freedom. So, Torres did indeed focus and poured over evidence with the team to find a way to bring this to its close and what they found, was stunning. Because they discovered the cartel was ready to take Gloria out in retaliation and that prompted intelligence to swoop in and save her, in the hopes of getting her to finally turn evidence over. But despite escaping a brutal gunfight, she was adamant she would never help the police. In large part because she was angry with Torres and wanted to punish him over anything else. But eventually, she understood how this was falling apart and that her only shot to see another day outside of a prison cell, was to play ball. Which brought about a buy and disaster. Wherein neither Gloria nor the cartel’s leader survived a firefight with the team. Which should have brought about good news for Torres. Because Gloria could not turn state evidence against him, and no one seemed to know outside of intelligence what he had done. But alas, this ending was bittersweet at best. For Torres still had to atone long term for keeping this a secret from his team and putting them in harm’s way, and… this didn’t stay a secret. Because somehow, DC Reid got wind of this and confronted Voight about it, in the most suspicious way possible. Because he didn’t ask for anyone to turn in their badge or face any penalties. He simply wanted a partnership with Intelligence. What that involves exactly, we don’t know yet. But while we wait, we can celebrate one epic midseason finale. For this one really did force Torres to atone for his sins and he paid the price dearly and in blood, and that made for one engaging tale that kept us on the edge of our seats and truly has us wondering what lie ahead for the team. Because it will take time to heal wounds from the lies, and Intelligence may be heading down a new path for certain, one that comes at quite the cost when this show returns on January 8, 2025. Until next time. Watch ‘Chicago P.D.’Written by John Edward Betancourt CHICAGO FIRE -- "Quicksand" Episode 13008 -- Pictured: (l-r) Hanako Greensmith as Violet Mikami, Jocelyn Hudon as Lyla Novak -- (Photo by: Elizabeth Sisson/NBC)
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 1308 of ‘Chicago Fire’. To revisit the previous episode, click here. This article also contains discussions regarding suicide, which may be triggering to some individuals.
For the most part, fall finales, or midseason finales as they are also called… are quite epic in nature. For they tend to feature stories that are just bombastic and powerful, and end in a manner that takes our breath away. Or they end with a juicy cliffhanger that will have us and other fans buzzing about the show until it returns from its hiatus. Which is a fun way to handle things from a storytelling perspective and we too enjoy it since it does wow us and keeps us engaged. But now and again you run into a show that decides to handle its fall finale in a far more different manner, as evidenced by this week’s episode of Chicago Fire on NBC. For ‘Quicksand’ was not a big-time tale, with some kind of giant mystery for Severide to solve. Instead, this episode was engaging but not overtly stunning. It was simply a story designed to begin to move characters into a new and hopefully peaceful chapter in their lives. For instance, this is a story that saw Carver work to adjust to life as a single man. Because Tori, decided that she could no longer handle having a responsible boyfriend that wouldn’t abide by her free spirit demands. So, she went back to Texas and left him on his own and thinking upon tomorrow, and thinking upon perhaps getting a dog. But this was a big deal for him, one that truly speaks to a chance for major growth for him, and he wasn’t alone in such matters. Because Novak revealed through a harrowing suicide attempt, that she has a lot of deep-rooted trauma from a suicide that clearly took place in her past, and facing that here, rattled her to no end, and understandably so and she of course… thought she could go it alone. But eventually she understood she needed to start to talk to someone about this and chose Violet as the first person to hear about such matters, who was happy to listen. Plus, even Pascal started thinking about growth. Because he and his wife were still reeling from another incident that resembled what happened in Miami and he came to realize that living life on the edge was no longer viable for their marriage. So, he worked hard here to find common ground with her and worked to plan for a better tomorrow where they could finally be at peace. Yet, there were still more moments of growth present here. Since Hermann and Mouch were at a bit of a mental crossroads here. Because this was it, the Lieutenant and Captain’s tests lie ahead and well… they realized this was a big deal and that a major change was ahead, and it was just lovely to see them prepare for a new chapter and become what they truly are, great leaders. But this episode wasn’t totally without a cliffhanger, and that was all handled by Cruz in this story. Because someone was leaving bullet urns in his locker and well, that all related to some early show callbacks for Cruz. Since he let Flaco, the leader of the Insane Kings, die in a fire, and well… Flaco’s cousin Junior came calling in this tale. The question remains though, if this is about harming Cruz and teaching him a devastating lesson… or related to something far more unique. But alas, we won’t know until January 8, 2025, when the show returns from its winter hiatus and well, while we wait to learn what lie ahead for Cruz, we can celebrate, a supremely relaxed finale. One that focused heavily on why we tune into this show, the characters. Because who they are, how they live and how they grow is what keeps us coming back, and while some might not like this midseason finale for being so low key, it works. In fact, it more than works, it was great. It was just a lovely character study that set the stage for new beginnings, and potentially a sour one for Cruz, and that’s just fine. And that cliffhanger did enough to keep us ready for more of this dynamic show, and the incredible people that populate it. Until next time. Watch ‘Chicago Fire’
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