Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Season Two Premiere of ‘Reacher’. To revisit the Season One Finale, click here.
It’s been a little while since we’ve talked about the Prime Video series, Reacher, and with good reason. After all, this show was in essence… an overnight sensation. For fans simply fell in love with this new iteration of Lee Child’s iconic character and that meant… there was a lot of work to be done to keep the wonder of this show going. Such as assembling a new season that was equal to season one in quality, and there was the whole matter of securing future seasons of the show as well. And now that season three is a go, and the hard work in creating a new season is done, the time has come to discuss the adventures of Jack Reacher once again. For yesterday saw the season two premiere of the series drop on Prime Video and well… ‘ATM’ absolutely set the stage for an epic new adventure with Reacher, shortly after reminding us why we love the character so much. For this episode opened up with a dark moment (more on that in a second) and a trademark Reacher moment. Wherein he spotted real trouble involving a mother in distress, and that prompted him to step in and save the day as only he can, and shortly after he put down one bad dude… that bigger and bolder story got underway. For he received an urgent message via his ATM account from Neagley, one that was absolutely worth his attention. Simply because, Franz, an old friend/co-worker from the Special Investigation Unit that Reacher headed up, turned up dead under very suspicious circumstances. The kind that spoke to torture and suffering for reasons unknown, and his passing, combined with the reality that others from the unit were radio silent, left this duo convinced that something suspicious was happening. In fact, they were only able to contact one more member of their unit, and well… the fact that he didn’t respond because he was out of town and off the grid, only helped their concerns to grow. Which prompted Reacher and Neagley to dig deep into Franz’s life while carefully keeping watch over their shoulders. For people were watching and ransacking places where they had been, all because they were in search of something that Reacher and Neagley did indeed find first. Specifically, a jump drive. One that featured a list of names that featured matching initials. Which wasn’t much to go off of, prompting this small team to keep digging and keep searching for their friends. Only to find death and a basic understanding that their unit was being hunted by a mysterious entity. One that will pay dearly for messing with Jack Reacher and the men and women he hand-picked to serve in that unit. All of which made for a unique season premiere. In part because, well… we are in essence being introduced to a supremely brave villain. Because whomever is behind this actually has the stones to go after Jack Reacher. Who outright took down an entire corrupt town with but a handful of friends and his bare hands. So, this villain either has some power behind them, or they’re the dumbest person to ever walk the earth. But also, this was a premiere that truly was grounded in heavy mystery and fact finding, which was obviously designed to set up the season ahead. But that’s not a bad thing, because it worked like a charm here. Because it really does offer up an engaging mystery grounded in the past, one that we must know more about and speaking of the past, that’s another reason that this premiere is so worth our while. Since it showcases… the man Jack Reacher used to be. For we do get to see him with his unit, back in the day, when Reacher wasn’t a wanderer filed with brooding darkness. But where he was a touch more optimistic and wanted to really see the potential of those vested his time into, giving rise to the reality that this will be a supremely intimate story about Reacher as well. One that could explain what pushed him to be so alone and if there is any hope for him to enjoy a touch of redemption. Especially since we came to learn in this story, he did do right by a lot of his team and showed them a better way. But while we wait to discover why Reacher and his team are being hunted, and what will come out of having the past haunt the present, we simply must celebrate one delightful tale. One that brought Jack Reacher back into the fold in the perfect manner and has us ready for more his of incredible quest to make the world a more just place, by any means necessary. Until next time. Watch ‘Reacher’
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Written by John Edward Betancourt One thing that we can all agree upon, is that the holiday season can be a bit chaotic and stressful, and draining in nature. For we have so much shopping and stuff to do before the big day, and family is in town and there’s events happening left and right. Which while we are happy to see everyone and take part in fun, we are indeed a little tired about this time of year, and forgetful to a degree, to the point where we even lose sight of some of the self-care stuff, we promised we’d partake in, such as watching our favorite shows and movies. Because those heal and help us to recharge, and that’s why STARZ is doing something a little unorthodox to help us out during the season. For they recently re-released their December programming lineup, to help us refocus, while also releasing their January 2024 lineup. To get us ready for the new year ahead, so we can indeed lose ourselves in some fine entertainment and re-load and recharge, and well, since you’re eager to remember what you want to watch this month and are ready to look ahead… here are those programming guides to refocus your holiday brain, courtesy of STARZ. ‘STARZ announces its programming highlights for the month of January, along with some new additions to the December film lineup, available now. In addition to the first four films in the Hunger Games franchise, STARZ now has all five films in the Twilight saga: Twilight, The Twilight Saga: New Moon, The Twilight Saga: Eclipse, The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn, Part 1 and The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn, Part 2 available now on the STARZ app through the end of December. Additional film titles now available include Kill Bill: Volume 1, Kill Bill Volume 2, Django Unchained, Inglourious Basterds, Tyler Perry’s Acrimony and Tyler Perry’s Madea Goes to Jail (Available beginning 12/16). January features the return of “Hightown” for its third and final season on Friday, January 26, 2024, as well as new episodes of “Power Book III: Raising Kanan,” season three all month long. On the film front, Hellboy (2019), Public Enemies, The Social Network and six of Adam Sandler’s hit movies, including 50 First Dates, Just Go With It, and Big Daddy join the STARZ app this month.’ The ‘Twilight’ Saga and ‘Hunger Games’ Collection PromoSTARZ Original Series“Power Book III: Raising Kanan” continues its third season with new episodes all month long, available Fridays at midnight (ET) on the STARZ app, all STARZ streaming and on-demand platforms. On linear, they will air on STARZ at 8:00PM ET/PT in the U.S. and 9:00PM ET in Canada. Over the last two seasons of “Raising Kanan,” Kanan Stark has slowly learned the truth about not only his mother, but also himself. It has been a tortuous journey for him and everyone around him. With each new revelation, Kanan has been forced to confront his family’s seemingly never-ending web of secrets and lies. He has spent much of this time in a state of denial, but now, Kanan’s blinders are finally off, and he doesn’t like what he sees. In season three, Kanan finds himself grappling with the very notions of right and wrong. Good and evil. Fidelity and disloyalty. And he’s not alone. Every member of the Thomas family must confront an existential crisis that challenges their very identity. Whether it’s Marvin, who’s still trying to redeem himself, or Raq, who’s finally coming clean, or Lou, who’s wrestling with his own evil, or Jukebox, who’s simply trying to break free from her family’s pathology, they are all attempting to redefine and reinvent themselves. They won’t all be able to complete this intensely personal quest, but for those who do, the destination may reveal the most terrifying secret of all. There is no right and wrong or good and evil. There are no absolutes. In the end, there’s just you.
Please note, there is no new episode of “Power Book III: Raising Kanan” on Friday, January 5
“Hightown” begins its third and final season on Friday, January 26, 2024 with the season premiere available at midnight ET on the STARZ app, all STARZ streaming and on-demand platforms. On linear, it will air on STARZ at 9PM ET/PT in the U.S. and Canada. Fishery Service Agent Jackie Quiñones is off the wagon and off the force in the final season of “Hightown,” but that doesn’t stop her from careening into the dark underbelly of picture-perfect Cape Cod to save a missing woman and a murdered sex worker. Meanwhile, her former colleagues Ray Abruzzo and Alan Santille are focused on taking down drug syndicates, but despite their best efforts, the drugs keep flowing. This attracts Shane Frawley, a gangster from Boston looking to cut himself in on the Cape's drug trade - and making an enemy of Osito while he's at it. Alliances are made and old loyalties are questioned in this beautiful but corrupt place where nothing is as it seems.
Notable Film Additions to the STARZ app in December and January*New December Additions BOLDED Available December 1:
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Notable Film Stunts and Collections available on the STARZ app in December and January
Notable MarathonsSTARZ
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About STARZ STARZ (www.starz.com), a Lionsgate company, is a leading 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. STARZ is available across digital OTT platforms and multichannel video distributors, including cable operators, satellite television providers, and telecommunications companies. 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 It really has been quite the amazing year for the Power Universe on STARZ. For not only did Ghost debut to rave reviews and take Tariq’s story to new heights, but Raising Kanan also premiered to critical acclaim and landed a fourth season order right away and oh yeah, this was also the year where Tommy Egan wowed the world like never before. Because season two of Power Book IV: Force truly allowed for the character to reach new heights, and allowed for Joseph Sikora to explore new angles of the character he knows so well and it just so happens that the incredible stories season two sent our way, and the response from fans, will allow for the Power Universe to enjoy one last accolade in 2023. For earlier today, STARZ let it be known that Tommy’s rise to the top of the Chicago drug empire will continue to be explored, for Power Book IV: Force is getting a third season. Which is wonderful news since there was some unfinished business that Tommy needs to handle, and ending the saga on a cliffhanger would be rough, not to mention… it’s obvious there is so much more story to tell. For this is a journey that Power fans have wanted for years upon years, and we are indeed finally getting more, and to properly celebrate this wonderful news, here are all the details on the forthcoming return of Tommy Egan, courtesy of STARZ. ‘STARZ announced today a season three renewal of its hit drama series “Power Book IV: Force.” The third spinoff in the “Power” franchise stars Joseph Sikora (“Power,” “Ozark”) as “Tommy Egan,” who is trying to stake his claim as the sole drug distributor in Chicago. The announcement comes hot off of the recent season two finale this past November. Viewers can now catch up on the high octane second season of “Power Book IV: Force” in its entirety on the STARZ app. “The fan response to this action-packed season of Force has been incredible,” said Kathryn Busby, President of Programming for STARZ. “They’ve made it clear that they need more Tommy and we’re thrilled to deliver. Christmas has indeed come early!” “Power Book IV: Force” season two stars Joseph Sikora (“Power,” “Ozark”) as “Tommy Egan,” Isaac Keys (“Get Shorty,” “The Oath”) as “Diamond Sampson,” Lili Simmons (“Banshee,” “Ray Donovan”) as “Claudia Flynn,” Shane Harper (“Hightown,” “A Teacher”) as “Vic Flynn,” Kris D. Lofton (“Ballers,” “Snowfall”) as “Jenard Sampson,” Carmela Zumbado (“You,” “Chicago PD”) as “Mireya Garcia,” Manuel Eduardo Ramirez (“Snowfall,” “Queen of the South”) as “Miguel Garcia,” Miriam A. Hyman (“The Chi,” “The Laundromat”) as “US Attorney Stacy Marks,” Adrienne Walker (“Law & Order: Organized Crime,” “FBI”) as “Shanti ‘Showstopper’ Page,” Anthony Fleming III (“Prison Break,” “The Beast”) as “JP,” and Lucien Cambric (“Chicago P.D.,” “The Chi”) as “D-Mac.” “Power Book IV: Force” is the third series in the expanded “Power” Universe franchise. Gary Lennon (“Power,” “Euphoria”) served as showrunner and executive producer for season two and will return for season three. The “Power” Universe series is executive produced by the creator and showrunner of the original “Power,” Courtney A. Kemp through her production company End of Episode, Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson through G-Unit Film and Television, and Mark Canton through Atmosphere Entertainment MM. Terri Kopp and Chris Selak also serve as executive producers. Lionsgate Television produces the series for STARZ. ABOUT “POWER BOOK IV: FORCE” – SEASON TWO Tommy Egan is on a mission to avenge the death of Liliana, and with the Flynn organization weakened, he’s more determined than ever to take over the Chicago drug world. But with CBI split down the middle, Tommy and Diamond first must maintain their edge over Jenard. As their factions feud in the streets, Tommy capitalizes on another rivalry between the Serbs and Miguel Garcia, the most formidable drug lord in Chicago. After setting off a chain reaction of violence in pursuit of his ambition, Tommy must race to stay ahead of the men who are coming for what’s theirs, a federal task force that’s closing ranks, and a sadistic supplier with a direct line to the Cartel. All the while torn by the promise of a second chance with his blood family, Tommy must decide what he is willing to sacrifice to finally ascend the throne of a kingpin. FOLLOW “POWER BOOK IV: FORCE” ON SOCIAL Instagram: @ForceStarz Facebook: @ForceStarz Join the conversation with #PowerForce #PowerTV and #STARZ About STARZ STARZ (www.starz.com), a Lionsgate company, is a leading 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. STARZ is available across digital OTT platforms and multichannel video distributors, including cable operators, satellite television providers, and telecommunications companies. 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. About Lionsgate Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF.A, LGF.B) encompasses world-class motion picture and television studio operations aligned with the STARZ premium global subscription platform to bring a unique and varied portfolio of entertainment to consumers around the world. The Company's film, television, subscription and location-based entertainment businesses are backed by an 18,000-title library and a valuable collection of iconic film and television franchises. A digital age company driven by its entrepreneurial culture and commitment to innovation, the Lionsgate brand is synonymous with bold, original, relatable entertainment for audiences worldwide.’ Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Two of ‘Archie’. To revisit the Series Premiere, click here.
When we last settled in to discuss the wondrous BritBox series, Archie, we talked at length about how the show… offered up some storytelling elements that you don’t often see in biographical features. Such as the fact that it figured out a way to use Cary Grant’s later years, and his one-man reflection show, as the catalyst to ponder upon his life and the formative years that brought him to America, wherein he would become a star. And this was worth noting and examining, simply because you don’t see bio features showcase the beginning in such a detailed manner, nor does the trip down memory lane feel so natural and organic, and well… the unique nature of this series is worth highlighting once more, simply because the next episode in this fascinating show found a way to continue to impress. For the second chapter in the life and times of Cary Grant, dug deep into the impact of trauma upon the human mind, and how that forms our future and some of our quirks and concerns about life, and it accomplished this exploration by taking the time to expand upon something that Cary said in passing in the premiere. Specifically, that he invented Cary Grant, that he was playing someone else all of this time, and well… he most certainly was not lying. Because we were witness to how acting in his earliest days, did something special for him. It let him escape from the tougher days that life sends our way and helped him to shed anything that was keeping him down, and that was intoxicating, and it made him feel loved because he was so good at it. So naturally, because of the pain he carried, and how little he wanted to deal with it, he was happy to become Cary Grant and leave Archie behind. Because as Cary, he was a new man, a star, and someone… that truly was a shell designed to protect the damage within. For he still worried deeply about being alone in this story, and he still carried with him the ache of never having his father and mother’s love, and that allowed for the story to explore how that related to his feelings regarding fatherhood. Since he felt deep down, he would end up like his dad, and it also explained how he struggled to connect with the people he so dearly loved. Because while Cary could express emotion, Archie could not, and the shield kept those wanting to be closest to him as far away as possible. Yet, what truly allowed for this episode to shine, was that it also showcased… how Cary worked to heal from all of that, and that he chose to heal for that matter. Since he spoke to Dyan about going into therapy and he pushed hard to know Dyan in this tale, to try and let down his guard because like anyone else… he wanted real love. Real connection, that sense of belonging to another’s heart through and through. And oddly enough, it would seem one of the big catalyst points for his decision to start therapy and the path to healing, was a return home long before he courted Dyan. Because his father came calling at the height of his fame, to apologize for lying to him about his mother’s death, a move that sent fury through Cary’s veins and ice when his mother didn’t recognize him, and clearly… that had to motivate a need for change, a need to shed that pain. But while we wait to see what that process looked like, and how tough that likely was for Cary to go through, we can celebrate one smart and amazing chapter in this series. Because it truly went where few bio pictures and stories in general go. By offering up an honest look at the power of trauma, and how it can literally transform people, and that made for a powerful journey indeed. One that was once again sold by Jason Isaacs in an incredible manner. For he continues to shine in this role, and he brings a real humanity to the role that we genuinely connect with. But what matters most is that this series continues to find new and engaging ways to explore the life of a true icon, and that truly leaves the viewer hungry for more. Because we’re learning so much, and we simply want to know more, and it will be fascinating to see what other unique corners of Cary’s life this series is going to explore in chapters to come. Until next time. Watch ‘Archie’
Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Six of ‘Monarch: Legacy of Monsters’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
It is definitely safe to say, that the Apple TV+ series, Monarch: Legacy of Monsters, has offered up nothing short of a masterclass in how to build mystery within a story. For this season of storytelling has left us deeply wondering if Cate and Kentaro’s father, Hiroshi, is alive, and it’s also left us curious why Monarch never stepped up to the plate and saved lives over hiding the truth about the Titans. Not to mention, it’s also left us wondering what is brewing behind the scenes since the science has been slowly pointing toward something big and mysterious happening with the Titans, something that could be quite dangerous for humanity. And it’s built these mysteries and kept us engaged and curious about them, through delicate world-building and incredible character development. But of course, for this to be considered a true masterpiece when it comes to mystery, the story must eventually reveal the truth behind those mysteries and use them to move the plot forward well, that is precisely what the next episode of this series took the time to do. For ‘Terrifying Miracles’ revealed a great deal to us, such as how love… was responsible for making Monarch the bureaucratic nightmare it is in 2015. For back in the 1950s, when Captain Shaw was oh so close to guiding the agency to exactly how he and Bill, and Keiko wanted… Keiko and Lee came to realize they had developed feelings for one another. To the point where Lee was ready to risk everything to ensure her safety on missions going forward. In fact, when given the chance to choose between Monarch’s future and his heart, Lee chose the latter, and that brought forth… new oversight. The kind that gave life to the inept organization at hand, all because Lee couldn’t make the mission the priority. However, while that was fascinating to learn, since it explained the inaction in question, we made mention of the fact that more mysteries were solved here. Since we came to learn after all, that Hiroshi was indeed alive. For Cate and her team, one that included Shaw, since he managed to escape with a little help, made it to Africa and in the middle of the desert… Cate and Kentaro were able to see their father alive and well. Only for a little while though, unfortunately. Because Hiroshi was indeed working on an important experiment in this place, one designed to awaken a Titan and well, Godzilla most certainly was cranky when his slumber was shattered. For the desert was his post G-Day hiding spot and his awakening finally brought forth the final reveal we were waiting for. Specifically, what’s happening in the world regarding the weird energy that’s been appearing and how that relates to the Titans. According to Shaw, it meant that a super Titan event was on the horizon. One that would blow G-Day out of the water and shock the world like never before. Which means that Hiroshi’s work revolved less around tracking and less around study of the Titan, and more about… these energy pools that apparently are going to do something horribly disruptive, and that revelation led to more surprises. In that, Shaw cared little to protect anyone from what was to come, he simply wanted to help Godzilla embrace the event and how it would benefit this infamous Kaiju. Giving rise to the reality that chaos is on the horizon, the kind sparked by the inaction of Monarch, the power vacuum that now exists there, courtesy of that chaotic encounter with Godzilla, and a desire to try something new and desperate because of the fear that G-Day generates, and it would seem… there’s no one to bring order to the forthcoming chaos. Because that many warring factions and that kind of disorganization leads to nothing good. Not to mention, even our heroes are frayed since May’s betrayal and troubled past came to light. Leaving unease over a story that really did offer up a bevy of answers. Because finally, we see the bigger picture now regarding Monarch and its inability to act, and we understand what’s driving Shaw to step in after being sidelined for so long and now we know… the world is in true trouble. The kind that no one may be able to stop and well, now that the truth is out of the way, this story can focus hard on that threat and its impact, and it will be fascinating to see if the trouble to come will unite humanity at last to do something about the Titans, or if more disaster and strife awaits because of division. Until next time. Watch ‘Monarch: Legacy of Monsters’
An Exclusive Sneak Peek of Tonight’s Premiere of ‘Life After Lockup: Innocent After Lockup’12/15/2023
Please enjoy this exclusive sneak peek, and details regarding Life After Lockup: Innocent After Lockup, which airs on WE tv later tonight!
'WE tv, AMC Networks’ destination for compelling unscripted television, today announced new limited series Love After Lockup: Innocent After Lockup, which follows exonerees falsely accused and convicted of crimes they did not commit. This elevated, three-episode special will premiere on Friday, December 15 at 10:30pm exclusively on WE tv. Every episode follows a different falsely accused exoneree who spent between 15 – 22 years in a maximum-security penitentiary and were subsequently proven innocent. The exonerees are currently at various stages of suing the state or federal government for financial compensation for their time unjustly spent behind bars. In the United States between 1989 – 2021, there were over 2,800 documented exonerations: an average of 32 per year. With the increased focus on unjust convictions and advancement of scientific procedures, in 2022 there were 238 exonerations, a mind-boggling 644% increase. Love After Lockup: Innocent After Lockup personalizes those heartbreaking statistics of wrongful incarceration in America by telling the remarkable personal journeys of three exonerees who fought for over a decade to vindicate themselves and are now caught in another lengthy fight to receive recompense for lost years. At the center of each story, alongside the wrongfully accused, we will hear from their families, including the wives and girlfriends whose love sustained their partner through the darkest hours, the reintegration into society, and their present battle for some form of justice. Love After Lockup: Innocent After Lockup makes real the ephemeral concepts of love, loyalty, and lost lives in the battle for justice against a damaged system; and asks the question “what is justice when all you have known is injustice?” Exonerees Taron Hill, Age 35 Raleigh, NC Taron was wrongfully convicted of a double homicide in 2004 at age 18, spent 16.5 years in prison and was exonerated in 2021. As of December 2023, Taron has not received a settlement from the state of New Jersey and continues to seek compensation. Calvin Buari, Age 51 Houston, TX Arrested 1993 in the Bronx, Calvin, age 21, was sentenced in 1995 to 50 years to life for double homicide. He spent 22 years in prison before being exonerated in March 2018, after three new witnesses came forward and stated Calvin was not the shooter. After his exoneration, Calvin sued New York State for the wrongful conviction and received $8 million of which he netted just under $5 million. He received the final $2.7 million of his settlement in February 2022. Ru-El Sailor, Age 42 Cleveland, Ohio At the age of 23, Ru-El was sentenced to 28 years to life for a murder that he did not commit. No physical or DNA evidence was present, and with the help of his wife, Amy, he was exonerated 15 years later. Ru-El’s co-defendant Cordell Hubbard confessed to the murder and is serving a life sentence. As of December 2023, Ru-El has received compensation from the state and continues to seek compensation from the City of Cleveland. Love After Lockup: Innocent After Lockup is produced by Sharp Entertainment, a part of Sony Pictures Television. Executive producers are Matt Sharp, Dan Adler, Alan Madison, Vanessa Butler, and Lisa Singer Haese. Angela Molloy, SVP Development & Original Production, Unscripted and Lisa Marie Angelo, Director Development & Original Production, Unscripted, executive produce for WE tv.' Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 406 of ‘For All Mankind’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
It is definitely safe to say that there is a great deal of unfortunate factors that have kept humanity from exploring the stars. Some of them… relate to developmental technology. Since ideally, we cannot traverse the cosmos quickly or even remotely near the speed of light because of technological limitations, not to mention… we don’t even have a viable engine to explore our own solar system in a timely manner. Plus, there are a lot of geopolitical factors at play, since earthbound ideologies and ideas tends to get in the way of humanity’s scientific progress. But there is one that we don’t talk about enough and should… for it is the biggest reason we are just now talking about going back to the moon fifty-plus years after the last Apollo landing. Specifically, money. For it requires cash to fund a space program, cash that not all nations are willing to spend. For we live in a world ruled by economy and returns on investment and what space travel offers, takes time to pay back what was put in and that… has truly stunted this industry and well… that problem is top of mind today, simply because the creative team behind the Apple TV+ series, For All Mankind, wanted to know if this is a roadblock that could exist in a world where space travel has in fact, received funding. As it turns out, ‘Leningrad’ posed the possibility that yes… it could. Courtesy of the M-7 meeting that took place in this tale. For while the nations were assembled, it became clear that a two trillion-dollar investment would be needed to properly mine the asteroid over Mars and well, that prompted both the United States and the Soviet Union to ponder upon, just forgetting about the mission to begin with. Which of course, horrified Aleida and Margot as well. Since they both understood… this asteroid could be transformative for all of mankind and set up generations for success. Which meant, it had to be mined, and that sense of urgency gave Aleida quite the idea. In that, perhaps the asteroid could come to Earth instead and be mined in orbit and well… in order to figure out the logistics of that… Margot had to make a critical choice. Either hope Aleida could do it on her own, and quickly, or step in and be in the public light again and leave a different mark upon history. So, she chose the latter and took her lumps from well, the world. But what mattered most here, is that this proved how socio-economic nonsense and political dances hurt space travel and offered some observation on what mindset we need to get past that. However, while that alone could have carried this tale, it still had more to say about how money can complicate space travel, courtesy of some surprises at Happy Valley. Such as the fact that Miles made a power play when Ilya cut him out of the business, because he wanted to make his fortune and he dismantled the old business to get it. Not to mention, Admiral Ed Baldwin spent a lot of time around base personnel in this story and was able to see how hard they worked and how hard they were struggling, when he was sober of course, and that prompted him to make an amazing decision when he was asked to handle some Helios business. For he saw that the company was going to slash wages and bonuses in lieu of the asteroid heading to Earth, and well… that prompted him to stir the pot and add fire to the union labor movement that was growing in the lower decks. Which of course, would not exist if livable and solid wages weren’t being pulled away from Helios’ employees. A move that spoke deeply to the labor movement in our world and how the show is going to continue to inject parallels from our world into this one, and well… that is bringing forth some fascinating tales. The kind that are calling our world and its issues to the carpet. Since this episode made it clear that we must stop prioritizing profits and returns on investments over investing in humanity’s future and safety, period. And that includes offering up wages that reward and don’t stress out employees that put themselves on the line in the name of a brand and well… it will be interesting to see what other commentary and big surprises await us in the weeks to come. As this bold series prepares to challenge this incredible world like never before, with a real chance to do something incredible for all of mankind. Until next time. Watch ‘For All Mankind’
Written by John Edward Betancourt In many ways, the concept of the manhunt is considered to be quite modern in nature. After all, we have seen law enforcement make use of technology and its powerful reach to bring criminals to justice, and we’ve even seen them play out live on a consistent basis through the news and through reality television. All of which makes it seem that this is something invented in the 20th Century and has only become more refined a century later. But the reality is, the manhunt is something that’s been around for ages, and Apple TV+ is ready to chronicle its earliest days, courtesy of a new series. For recently, Apple TV+ let it be known that this March, it will release, Manhunt. A series that chronicles the search for one America’s most infamous killers, John Wilkes Booth. Yes, that’s right, the man responsible for killing Lincoln, spent his days on the run. Something we don’t discuss often since the gravity of his decision to pull the trigger upon one of America’s finest presidents overshadows everything else. But this is an important story, one that does indeed chronicle one of the earliest and greatest manhunts in our nation’s history and to properly announce the show’s arrival, Apple was kind enough to release some first-look photos to accompany the details on this brand-new series. One that will offer up an incredible education on an important moment in American history. ‘Apple TV+ today unveiled its first look at “Manhunt,” the upcoming, seven-part true crime limited series starring Emmy Award-winning actor Tobias Menzies (“The Crown,” “Game of Thrones,” “Outlander”), and created by Emmy nominee Monica Beletsky (“Fargo,” “The Leftovers,” “Friday Night Lights”), who also serves as showrunner and executive producer. Emmy nominee Carl Franklin (“Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story,” “One False Move,” “Devil in a Blue Dress”) directed the first two episodes and is also an executive producer on the series. “Manhunt” is set to make its global debut on Apple TV+ with the first two episodes airing on Friday, March 15, 2024, and episodes will debut weekly on Fridays through April 19, 2024. Based on The New York Times bestselling and Edgar Award-winning non-fiction book from author James L. Swanson, “Manhunt” is a conspiracy thriller about one of the best known but least understood crimes in history, the astonishing story of the hunt for John Wilkes Booth in the aftermath of Abraham Lincoln’s assassination. Starring alongside Menzies are Anthony Boyle (“Tetris,” “The Plot Against America”), Lovie Simone (“Greenleaf”), Will Harrison (“Daisy Jones & The Six”), Brandon Flynn (“13 Reasons Why”), Damian O’Hare (“Hatfields & McCoys”), Glenn Morshower (“The Resident”), Patton Oswalt (“A.P. Bio”), Matt Walsh (“Veep”), and Hamish Linklater (“The Big Short”). “Manhunt” is produced by Apple Studios and co-produced by Lionsgate Television, in association with POV Entertainment, Walden Media, 3 Arts Entertainment, Dovetale Productions and Monarch Pictures. Beletsky, Franklin, Layne Eskridge, and Kate Barry executive produce. Swanson, author of “Manhunt: The 12-Day Chase for Lincoln's Killer” also serves as executive producer alongside Michael Rotenberg, Richard Abate, Frank Smith and Naia Cucukov. Apple TV+ offers premium, compelling drama and comedy series, feature films, groundbreaking documentaries, and kids and family entertainment, and is available to watch across all your favorite screens. After its launch on November 1, 2019, Apple TV+ became the first all-original streaming service to launch around the world, and has premiered more original hits and received more award recognitions faster than any other streaming service in its debut. To date, Apple Original films, documentaries and series have been honored with 400 wins and 1,674 award nominations and counting, including multi-Emmy Award-winning comedy “Ted Lasso” and historic Oscar Best Picture winner “CODA.” About Apple TV+ Apple TV+ is available on the Apple TV app in over 100 countries and regions, on over 1 billion screens, including iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Mac, popular smart TVs from Samsung, LG, Sony, VIZIO, TCL, and others, Roku and Amazon Fire TV devices, Chromecast with Google TV, PlayStation and Xbox gaming consoles, and at tv.apple.com, for $9.99 per month with a seven-day free trial. For a limited time, customers who purchase and activate a new iPhone, iPad, Apple TV or Mac can enjoy three months of Apple TV+ for free.* For more information, visit apple.com/tvpr and see the full list of supported devices.’ Written by John Edward Betancourt It is definitely safe to say that 2023 was quite the amazing year for Bluey. For it was simply one of the hottest shows of the year. One that everyone continues to talk about and that’s helped to spread the word about the show as well. Plus, the series debuted a bevy of highly anticipated new episodes throughout the year, and it even received a video game release to much fanfare and was one of the most anticipated displays at this year’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and well, the buzz around Bluey will continue into 2024.
For earlier today, Disney let it be known that ten, all-new episodes of the show will be arriving on Disney+ on January 12, 2024, and that more treats await Bluey fans as the year rolls along. The kind we are going to share with you now. Because if you’re here, you’re eager to learn as much as you can as to what lies ahead for this iconic franchise, so here are all the details on this wondrous announcement, and a few more surprises. ‘HOORAY! Ten all-new episodes of the hit series Bluey will launch January 12, 2024 in the U.S. and around the world on Disney+. The year’s #1 most-watched series for preschoolers and kids in the U.S. -- which has also topped Nielsen streaming charts for overall viewing** -- Bluey features the loveable and inexhaustible Blue Heeler dog Bluey, who lives with her Mum, Dad and little sister Bingo. In these ten new Disney+ episodes, Bluey showcases the joyful simplicity that can be found in families turning everyday events of family life -- like making a cubby house (blanket fort) or a trip to the beach -- into unique adventures that bring to life how children learn and grow through play. The episodes include: “Cubby” – Bluey and Bingo build a very special cubby for their stuffed toy, Kimjim. “Exercise” – Bingo pretends to be Boss Bluey’s new employee in the middle of Dad’s backyard workout. “Relax” – Bluey and Bingo would rather explore their holiday hotel room than relax on the beach. “Stickbird” – On a trip to the beach, Mum teaches Bluey how to throw, while Bingo and Dad get creative with a funny shaped stick. “Show and Tell” – Bluey wants to know why Dad’s always bossing her around! “Dragon” – Bluey asks Dad to help her draw a dragon for her story. “Wild Girls” – Coco wants to play Wild Girls with Indy, but Chloe wants her to play another game. “TV Shop” – At the pharmacy, Bluey and Bingo have fun playing with the CCTV screens. “Slide” – Bingo and Lila are excited to play on their new waterslide. “Cricket” – During a friendly game of neighborhood cricket, the dads struggle to bowl Rusty out. Following its January Disney+ premiere, the new episodes will air on Disney Channel and Disney Junior in territories around the world later in 2024. Also later in 2024, Disney+ fans will have even more new Bluey to look forward to, when the previously announced first-ever Bluey special, “The Sign,” will premiere on ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) in Australia and globally on Disney+. The 28-minute special is penned by Bluey creator and writer Joe Brumm and directed by Richard Jeffery from Ludo Studio. Jointly commissioned by ABC Children’s and BBC Studios Kids & Family, Bluey is created and written by Joe Brumm and produced by multi-Emmy® Award-winning Ludo Studio in association with Screen Queensland and Screen Australia. The series streams to U.S. and global audiences (outside of Australia, New Zealand and China) across Disney Channel, Disney Junior and Disney+ through a global broadcasting deal between BBC Studios Kids & Family and Disney Branded Television. Bluey has garnered awards wins including the International Kids Emmy Awards, a Critics Choice Award nomination, the Television Critics Association Award, BAFTA Children & Young People Awards, and many more. *Source: Nielsen Media Research time spent viewing for CY2023 to-date; 12/26/22-10/29/23 based on total hours viewed for Kids 2-11 across linear and streaming combined, versus all other series tracked by Nielsen. **Source: Nielsen Media Research Data for Total P2+ time spent viewing on streaming, versus all programs tracked by Nielsen. (Based on being #1 wks of 11/20/23, 11/6/23, Live for Streaming.)’ Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Three of ‘Steeltown Murders’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
More often than not, crime stories that revolve around cold cases, regardless of whether or not they are grounded in truth, take their time in getting to the finish line and understandably so. After all, what’s done is done and there is no need for a sense of urgency to bring anyone to justice. Allowing for incredibly thorough investigations to take place, the kind that feature a careful collection of evidence and absolute certainly from the investigators involved when they narrow down a genuine suspect to arrest. And even that act is pretty low-key in nature. Since there’s no need to rush to slap the cuffs on the real killer, since they haven’t a clue what’s coming their way. But believe it or not, it is possible, to have a sense of urgency when it comes to cold case themed stories, real and fictional. Simply because… now and again, circumstances require the investigators to hustle and close the case. It could be because something has changed regarding the accused and not acting fast could have a suspect slip through their fingers… or… something shocking can force their hand, and for proof… then look no further than the next episode of Steeltown Murders on Acorn TV. A feat that the next episode accomplished by well, bringing trouble to Paul’s world. Because despite having a wondrous plan to find new DNA through a narrowed down list, the brass above him and so many others, made a powerful choice about the program. In that, funding was about to be cut, and the case was going to remain open. All because the top brass believed the funds being used for this would be better served elsewhere. Giving Paul and his team, a handful of days to solve the case with their short list and well… that created a mad dash sense of urgency for them. One that outright engaged us and brought forth some serious surprises. Because not only did the team have to find a DNA match, but they had to lock down corroborating evidence to properly link the whole case together and believe it or not, their push to get quick data results, fired back a match. Specifically, Joe Kappen, a man that the team interviewed briefly during the original investigation and found nothing of critical importance during their visit. But the data was sound, a 75% match in fact, and with a little digging, the evidence began to make it clear that Joe was likely the killer. After all, the timing of issues regarding his car back in the 1970s, was all a little too perfect. Since those issues prevented suspicion. Not to mention, his MO of violence against younger people, helped to match forensic evidence to wounds inflicted on the victims. All of which, made it seem as though, case was about to be closed. For everything lined up perfectly, and since Joe was dead, it would be even easier to tie him to the murders. But something didn’t sit right with Paul. Because he wanted to know that Joe was 100% their man and was indeed the cold-blooded monster that inflicted so much pain on this town. Which meant, he would need to exhume the body before the deadline, something he was prepared to do. But while this was an intense tale, what mattered most here, was that at last… Paul and his team had a name, had evidence, and a path forward to finally put this case to rest and that was huge, and led to some powerful emotional moments as well. Since Sita reflected on this at last, and others began to find peace and reconcile the reality that a decades long nightmare was finally coming to an end. But we do need to praise the intense nature of this tale, since it spoke to how a sense of urgency can exist in low-key cases, and wel… we’re now eager to know how this will end. Because despite having all those wins, Paul knows what he needs to find real peace with this, what others need as well, and it will be interesting to see if he can convince the brass to give him the last funds he needs, to solve this heinous crime or if bureaucracy will be the additional epitaph on the graves of the innocent. Until next time. Watch ‘Steeltown Murders’
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