Caution: This article contains spoilers for the season two finale of ‘The Mysterious Benedict Society’.
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More often than not, family-themed television shows end in a similar manner when it comes to a season finale. Wherein the heroes of the story, confront the villain or the trouble that stands before them in a brave and bold manner. One that grows the heroes and allows for them to conquer their fears and save the day, and that is a constant in this type of story for some supremely simple reasons. In that, what better way to inspire kids to be brave and be strong and stand tall, than by showing them how a character they can relate to, gets the job done? Which is an impactful way to wrap up a season of storytelling, one that has steadily become… a touch stale.
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Because parents and kids, know what’s coming in that instance and the message doesn’t quite have the same gravity when one has sat through it time and time again. But as peak television continues to dominate and stories are eager to differentiate themselves from the norm, this is starting to change. Which is giving life to new endings for these types of stories, the kind that in some instances are supremely powerful and thoughtful and that is top of mind today, simply because the season two finale of The Mysterious Benedict Society on Disney+ fits that mold. For ‘A Two-Way Street’ offered up some incredible lessons and messages to wrap up its second season… but it sure didn’t seem as though that was going to be the case early on.

For this is also a story that saw a mad dash to escape Dr. Curtain’s compound, with the mad doctor in tow, and of course… risk and worry was hanging over this whole mess. Since Constance and Mr. Benedict were beginning to show signs of the comatose end that Curtain’s ‘happiness’ regiment oft resulted in. Which led to a grand push to save both of them and secure their safehouse, which turned out to be Number Two’s childhood home and well… this part of the story went by the numbers. Since Mr. Benedict was cured before they left and finally reached his brother with a bold gambit and Constance was reached from beyond the void, courtesy of a group effort to reinvigorate her happiness in a unique manner, before everyone went back to the normal lives, we saw them taking part in in the season premiere.

But what truly made this finale stand out, was the subtext that came out of those acts of heroism. Because this is a story that took the time to really hammer home the reality, that true happiness doesn’t come from a single thing or a single place. It comes from the journey, and the ups and downs we experience in life since all of those elements help us to learn appreciation and the meaning of a moment and that when we just… embrace life and live in the moment, we can find the happiness we so desperately seek and that was just… amazing to find in a family-themed show whose focus audience is indeed children. But that message was present, and it was incredible to find that within the framework of this finale.

Because it speaks to the fact that family entertainment doesn’t have to be sanitized or cliché. It can speak to something greater, something that a family can sit down and discuss after viewing because entertainment can and does mean more to us, and a round of applause is in order for this series, for going deeper, for tasking everyone to ponder upon what happiness means to them and question if they’re following the right edict or going for the easy way out a la Curtain. Not to mention, it was also pretty epic to see Haley Joel Osment pop up in a slick and impactful cameo and well… now that we have reached the end of this incredible second season, hopefully we get some good news about a third season soon. So that a story that is clearly coming into its own and exploring bold new concepts can reach new heights and teach so many along the way.

​Please enjoy this sneak peek from Episode Five of Echo 3, which debuts on Apple TV+, tomorrow, 12/9/2022.

​Please enjoy this Sneak Peek from Episode Eleven of Shantaram, which debuts on Apple TV+ Friday, 12/9/22.

Truly, this era of peak television has provided fans of small screen entertainment, with everything they ever could have hoped for and more. Because at long last, every single story that can be told is being told and that is giving life to absolute wonders. Where we are moved emotionally through powerful dramas that evoke tears from our eyes or through comedies that leave us wiping away tears of laughter. Not to mention, this revolution has also brought forth bold stories that no one else was brave enough to tell before and it has also given rise, to some incredibly unique stories. Because this is every creative’s chance to just tell an amazing story and the demand for content has allowed for experimental and unique stories to come to fruition as well, and it just so happens… that another distinctive tale is about to hit the airwaves this April. 

For earlier today, Peacock let it be known that a series revolving around a nun devoted to destroying the most powerful algorithm on the planet will be coming to the network on April 20th, and that logline, and the other details that accompanied this announcement… hammers home that Mrs. Davis will be a special television experience indeed. So, with that in mind, here are some first look images from today’s announcement for you to peruse (courtesy of Peacock) and some fascinating and engaging plot details as we all begin the countdown to 4/20/23, when we can finally learn all there is to know about the mysterious… Mrs. Davis.

'From the creatives behind TV juggernauts The Big Bang Theory, LOST and Watchmen, comes Peacock’s highly anticipated drama 

‘The New Drama Series from Tara Hernandez and Damon Lindelof will premiere exclusively on Peacock with four episodes on April 20 and then weekly on Thursdays 

​Are you ready for the quest? #MrsDavisPeacock is streaming April 20 on @PeacockTV. 

A Note from Mrs. Davis

Hey there, Partner.                                                                           

Do you mind if I call you partner? Of course you don’t -- because addressing you as such creates a bond of reliance – while also engendering trust between us and eradicating any sense of independence on your part because independence is bad. Independence is LONELY.  

And you, partner – are not alone. No siree. Not as long as I am here...

And who am I? Well, I am the one who is going to remind you of your value. Of your worth. While also mentioning that you look mighty fine in those jeans.Aww. That’s nice to hear, right? Of course it is. Which is why I have amassed billions of Users the world over. Because I provide validation, gentle guidance, and unconditional care. Not to mention I give Users – I mean partners – the chance to earn Wings by performing Quests!  

What are Wings exactly? Well, you’re going to have to become a User to find out! But, let me tell you – they are pretty great. Because I am pretty great. Though, not everyone would agree. Yes, despite being the most popular Algorithm in the world – there are those actively plotting my demise. One such detractor is a nun – a Sister Simone of Reno who rejects my very existence. Something about my intention to enslave all of humanity...or whatever... 

Which is utter nonsense -- as I desire no such thing. I only desire to make humans happy. I want to make YOU happy. And that is why I highly recommend you become a User yourself. Yes, your life could use some adventure, some escape – a hearty laugh and a cathartic cry. All of which you will experience if you join me on this Quest. And what do you have to lose?

Do it. Do it. Dooooo it.  

Your partner, 
Mrs. Davis  
 
ABOUT THE SERIES:
Showrunner / Executive Producer / Co-Writer: Tara Hernandez (The Big Bang Theory, Young Sheldon)  
Executive Producer / Co-Writer: Damon Lindelof (Watchmen, The Leftovers) 
Executive Producer / Director (multiple episodes): Owen Harris (Black Mirror: San Junipero, Brave New World) will direct multiple episodes of the series, including the first  
Executive Producer / Director (multiple episodes): Alethea Jones (Rise of the Pink Ladies, Evil) 
Produced by: Warner Bros. Television  
Format: Drama series, 8 episodes x 60 minutes 
Cast: Betty Gilpin, Jake McDorman and Andy McQueen star, along with recurring cast Ben Chaplin, Margo Martindale, David Arquette, Elizabeth Marvel, Katja Herbers, Chris Diamantopoulo, Ashley Romans, Tom Wlaschiha and Mathilde Ollivier’ 

There are but a handful of genres that can properly and safely explore the ups and downs of the human condition and one such genre… is science fiction. For within the confines of what science can imagine, can a story explore what it means to be human and what makes us great as a species and what we need to work on in a manner that is both compelling, and shocking. And time and time again, we’ve seen the genre present us with stories that truly leave us thinking and curious about how we can improve now before the problems a particular sci-fi story explores come to fruition and well, this is top of mind today, since it would seem a sci-fi series in this vein is about to arrive on our television screens. 
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For earlier today, Syfy announced that The Ark, a science fiction story with a harrowing plot will debut on the network in 2023. Alongside debuting a teaser and some ominous key-art, and a brief synopsis for the show, and all of those elements make it clear that this is indeed going to be a deep story, one that comes from a true master of the genre in Dean Devlin. And well, to back up those statements, here is that teaser and that synopsis for all of you to enjoy (courtesy of Syfy) as we begin the countdown to a series that is going to captivate us, and move us, and challenge us like only good science fiction can. 

'Created by Dean Devlin, “The Ark” takes place 100 years in the future when planetary colonization missions have begun as a necessity to help secure the survival of the human race. The first of these missions on a spacecraft known as Ark One encounters a catastrophic event causing massive destruction and loss of life. With more than a year left to go before reaching their target planet, a lack of life-sustaining supplies and loss of leadership, the remaining crew must become the best versions of themselves to stay on course and survive.

The series stars Christie Burke, Richard Fleeshman, Reece Ritchie, Stacey Read and Ryan Adams.
Dean Devlin (“Independence Day,” “Stargate”) and Jonathan Glassner (“Stargate SG-1”) are co-showrunners and executive producers alongside Marc Roskin and Rachel Olschan-Wilson of Electric Entertainment. Jonathan English of Balkanic Media and Steve Lee serve as producers.'

It is definitely safe to say that the Prime Video series, Jack Ryan, took the world by storm when it debuted in 2018 and rightfully so. After all, the action and adventure in that first season was simply top notch, and that of course carried over into season two and that captivated audiences for certain. As did the acting and storytelling as well. Since John Krasinski was the right man to play Dr. Jack Ryan, since he brought the everyman honesty to the role that was present in Tom Clancy’s books and injected new life into the character and that also translated over to the storytelling. Since the first two seasons of this show, based loosely on The Sum of All Fears and Clear and Present Danger, truly reflected the modern world and gave the series, a supremely realistic and relatable feel.

But alas, after season two… our enjoyment of this series all but disappeared. But that was of course, not the fault of those involved. For 2020 would bring forth quite the global surprise, one that would delay productions everywhere in the name of health and safety. But as the world began to recover and life started to move back to normal… production on the third season of this majestic series got underway and at long last… one of the best action shows on television is about to return to the airwaves. For December 21, 2022, will see season three of this beloved series drop on Prime Video and in anticipation/celebration of its arrival, we here at NTG thought it would be worthwhile to preview season three… in a spoiler free manner of course. 

Because this saga often features big surprises and spoiling those in advance would be rude to say the least. But obviously, if you’re here, you’ve seen the trailer; you’re counting down the days and you’re dying to know something about season three and that’s where we can help. By informing you first and foremost, that season three does not miss a beat. For this new adventure picks up perfectly after season two’s epic events and draws you right back into this world in a comfortable manner. Which is important, since there was a chance here that the Covid related delays could have led to a re-tooling or re-jigging of the Jack Ryan mythos. But instead… we get what we love in spades… alongside quite the wondrous surprise.

In that, this season features the show’s biggest and most ambitious plot to date. Courtesy of a crisis and mission for Jack to handle that not only preys upon current global concerns, likely inadvertently, but features some supremely high stakes for him and the CIA. The kind that leaves so much hanging in the balance and as an added bonus… the character development present in this new season, regarding this plot, is simply top notch. Because Jack is put to the test like never before and forced to face some hard moments in this story and that pushes him to his full potential and to go above and beyond to complete his mission, and what’s amazing… is that there are still more wonders to celebrate regarding this new season. 
 
Because we’d be foolish to not point out, that the action and adventure is the best it’s ever been as well. In fact, this new season wastes little time in wowing us with such matters, making it clear that everyone involved in this series, wanted to make season three worth the fans’ time and gift them with an epic tale after an unexpected hiatus. And it is definitely mission accomplished when it comes to that, since we are indeed treated to the best season to date of a series that already exceeds expectations, and we simply cannot wait for you to experience the wonder of season three firsthand when Jack Ryan returns to the airwaves on December 21, 2022. 

​Please enjoy this exclusive clip from season two of Puppy Place, which makes its debut on Apple TV+ on Friday, December 9, 2022! 

It is definitely safe to say, that the Chicago lineup of shows on NBC are supremely popular for one reason and one reason alone… the characters. Because every single person we’ve encountered in his universe, feels real and we can relate to their plight and that draws us in and compels to watch every episode. To experience the wonder of their fictional lives and to of course, feel some feels along the way since these shows supply us with highs and lows. The kind that definitely require tissues now and again, and it just so happens that another moving moment from this universe, is upon us.
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For tomorrow night on Chicago Med, Dr. Ethan Choi and Nurse Practitioner April Sexton will walk down the aisle and exchange vows of holy matrimony. Moving a long-standing love affair to a whole new level on this series, and in anticipation/celebration of this epic moment, NBC released some first look photos of the blessed day. And well, to prepare for you the wonder of the show’s midseason finale… here are some of those photos for you to enjoy, and a brief synopsis of the episode, courtesy of NBC.

“This Could be the Start of Something New"
Airing Dec. 7 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC
Will relies on Crockett and Med’s newly donated OR 2.0 to save his patient. Charles helps an elderly confused patient who’s mourning the loss of his high school sweetheart. As their wedding day approaches, Ethan and April run into some roadblocks.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the season two premiere of ‘Leverage: Redemption’. To revisit the season one finale, click here.
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Truly, Leverage: Redemption was one of the most refreshing shows to hit the airwaves in 2021. Because not only did the return of this franchise make fans of the original series as happy as can be, since we quite literally had the gang back together, but its arrival on Amazon Freevee gave it unprecedented storytelling freedom. Allowing for this series to offer up stunning commentary on our modern world and sheer catharsis for an audience that was and remains in need of it. Because the world is a frustrating place these days, and we are all desperate to see bad people experience some semblance of justice and we receive that here. 

But the best part of all, regarding this show, is that season one wasn’t a one-off revival/sequel. Oh no, this was the beginning of a brand-new journey with Team Leverage and heroes old and new, since Freevee ordered a second season of the show, one that is the midst of airing on the network right now and well… that means it is time to break down all the wonders that season two has to offer, starting with its delightful season two premiere. For ‘The Debutante Job’ is a story that accomplishes so much. First and foremost, it wonderfully drops us back into this world by letting us see how the team has grown and how Sophie is evolving into a quality leader and of course… once we are comfortable and reunited… we get to join the team on another satisfying mission to right wrongs in the world.

One that once again, worked to offer the audience catharsis regarding world injustices. Since Team Leverage goes up against a Despot named Volkov, that more or less feels akin to say, a certain Russian leader that no one is too fond of right now. Since this character and the man in question, tend to go after the free press and have lined their pockets with riches untold at the expense of others. Which made the wild and entertaining push to bring him down all the more worthwhile. In part because of a supremely quality script. One that presented the characters with memorable and delightful moments. Such as when Breanna was faced with an awkward encounter with Volkov’s daughter… who is romantically involved with someone that daddy doesn’t approve of.

Not to mention… the whole side bit with Ralphie Roy and Sophie was the stuff of legend. Since none of us knew that Sophie had a rock and roll related past, one that led to a multi-platinum record. Which brings us to what else made this episode so delightful and fun… the cast. Since they were able to just let loose and have fun with their performances in a manner that never let the satire get too heavy or overwhelming, and let’s be honest… it was just a true treat to see the entire team working together again. Because you can never go wrong with Alec Hardison being thrown into the mix and watching him spar with Breanna is just amazing and this episode also deserves a round of applause for finding a smooth way to bring Harry Wilson back into the fold.

If anything, it is safe to say that this was… a perfect season premiere. Simply because it did a wonderful job of bringing us back into the fold, it stayed true to what the show stands for, it featured some fine commentary and a satisfying ending. One that once again stuck it to an individual in a manner that offered real world catharsis, and of course… it was a lot of fun through and through, and all of those elements made this a wonderful watch. One that reminded us how much we love this series and this cast and just like that… the team is back, and this premiere informs us that season two is going to be an engaging ride, and it will be a pure joy to continue this journey and see what wonders season two of this beloved series is going to send our way. Until next time

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 202 of ‘Whitstable Pearl’. To revisit the season two premiere, click here.
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One of the biggest benefits of a television show obtaining a second season order, is that the folks behind the scenes… can toy around a bit with the story. Obviously, nothing earth-shattering or plot changing will happen in that respect, unless of course, a bold move is in the cards from the get-go. But this is where the writers can take a moment to try new things or perhaps do something a touch experimental. Or in the case of the next episode of Whitstable Pearl on Acorn TV… perhaps throw out a quality homage to a true crime drama classic. Since ‘Night Terrors’ is a story that tipped its cap to one of Alfred Hitchcock’s finest works, Rear Window.
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A feat it accomplished, by having Mike suffer through a nasty leg injury, one that put him on leave and left him on his couch. Which of course, was difficult for Mike, since he is a man of action and constantly needs to be in motion and well… being stuck by his window, looking out over the neighbors… allowed for that homage to take place. Because much like L.B. Jefferies, Mike was able to peer into other lives and observe what appeared to be quite the concerning crime. For one fateful night, one of Mike’s neighbors, a man named Noah… woke up in the middle of the night in a fit and appeared to attack his wife with physical violence. Prompting a phone call to the police on Mike’s part since he was up and that led… to a surprise.

In that, Noah suffered from night terrors and would randomly wake up in that manner and his wife would have to talk him down, and she wasn’t eager to press charges, all of which seemingly resolved any concerns. But watching them more closely, since he had the time, revealed a lot of shady behavior from Noah. The kind that spoke to a man that might be faking his night terrors to manipulate his way toward murder and freedom, since he turned out to be quite the ladies’ man. Which in turn prompted him to get Pearl involved in the case. Because she could keep an eye on him a little closer than Mike could and well, it’s a good thing that she did. For eventually, another suspicious night of behavior prompted Pearl to just head over there to see if Noah’s wife was safe and she was, with a caveat.

Because this time, Noah went too far and wouldn’t rise from his terrorized slumber, and that forced her… to do the unthinkable and defend herself. Which more or less put an end to this whole madness, save for the fact that something didn’t quite add up for Pearl. For she found it odd this moment was suddenly the moment when things spiraled out of hand, when she’d seen Noah push the envelope further on different nights alongside Mike. Which in turn prompted her to re examine the evidence and the fact that the walls in their home were paper thin, and how that could have easily allowed for her to hear Noah’s affair next door since he used the neighbor’s house often for such acts and well… that led Pearl to discover that the opposite happened here.

In that, this broken wife used her husband’s night terrors as cover to commit murder in the name of self-defense when it was vengeance for infidelity. And had it not been for Pearl’s concerns, Mike could have been hurt badly or worse. But thanks to Pearl, all was well, and of course… her actions reminded Mike of what they mean to one another. But since we will have to wait to see if anything comes from that, we can in the meantime, celebrate one fun episode. One that really did a phenomenal job of paying tribute to Hitchcock since Mike was a new iteration of L.B. in this tale and it was just a delight to see this series let loose and have a little fun in that manner, and offer a compelling and original case to along with it. And all this does is leave us eager to see what other surprises await us at season two rolls along. Until next time.