​There is quite the welcome trend happening with crime documentaries and docuseries right now. In that, a bevy of them are popping up about classic cases that have captivated people for decades on end. Not to beat a dead horse mind you, nor are they designed to freshen up the mythos. No instead what makes these so beneficial is the sheer fact that they are working to be definitive stories. The kind that brings old haunts to proper conclusions. All by exploring every single corner of a particular case, so that we fully understand what happened and why, and so that we also understand completely the monster that committed such acts. 
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Because knowledge really does give us what we need to put certain moments to rest, and that’s the goal. To finally close out stories that have been with us for far too long and have done so much harm, and well… it is Peacock that is leading the way in bringing forth such powerful documentaries. For all year long, they’ve been producing stories that leave no stone unturned and are diving deeply into those very details and they are offering closure. By looking at the end game of the cases in question and well, it just so happens that Peacock is now home to another definitive documentary about another dark chapter in America’s history, one that offers closure, in Richard Ramirez: The Night Stalker Tapes.

Which is, indeed, a story that takes us back to the summer of 1985. Wherein Richard Ramirez, aka ‘The Night Stalker’, terrorized all of California with his killing spree. Since he left a litany of victims in his wake in several parts of the state during that summer. Thankfully though, police finally exposed his true identity through an exhaustive search, and that in turn, led to his subsequent arrest and trial and his eventual death in prison. But those are the parts of the story we know, and it is what lie beneath that makes this such an incredible documentary. Since it takes the time to explore what made Richard into a killing machine, some of the crimes we did not know he was responsible for… and the impact his actions had upon so many lives.

Which comes forth via comprehensive interviews with people that called Richard a friend, a husband, and former fans of his as well. Along with interviews from police officials involved in the case and what we learn about his actions are powerful. In that, he damaged so many lives and left so much grief in his wake, which we don’t discuss. Not to mention, he played a massive part in the madness of the Satanic Panic of the 1980s and in some ways, his court theatrics set the stage for future chaos and division. But what matters most, is that he took lives, and left pain and suffering in his wake and we don’t talk about that enough, and we should. So that we can properly understand the impact of men like Richard and the horrors they commit to.

All of which brings forth, a powerful documentary. One that truly does explore the case in a manner that gives us a complete understanding of what his reign of terror looked like in the summer of ’85, but also showcases the humanity of the case, the damage incurred to Richard from a psychological standpoint that made him a monster and everything in between. For this is the definitive exploration of his life and his crimes and truly, you walk away from this one with a better understanding of a ghoulish serial killer that went to great lengths to exert power and enjoy fame, and you can explore this case, right now. For both episodes in this series are streaming on Peacock and we hope you do give it a look, to find closure at last from another painful case that opened America’s eyes to the evil that men do. 

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episodes 303 & 304 of ‘Dalgliesh’. To revisit the Season Three Premiere, click here.
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In this modern age of crime dramas, cases are solved through a multitude of options. For instance, there’s forensic evidence to work with, the kind that easily ties someone to the crime in question and that allows for so many investigators to bring bad people to justice. Not to mention, there’s digital evidence abound as well, courtesy of CCTV cameras and social media and the very devices that are now parts of our lives. Which has made crime dramas so vastly different from a storytelling perspective, in a manner that is now exciting and intense, and well… we love these tools so, and love to see how criminals try to evade them in these stories. Since it further adds to the drama and intensity. 

But what we often forget, is that crime dramas weren’t always like this. For this technology is new and there was a time, not that long ago, where investigators had to handle such matters differently. In fact, they relied solely on clues and detailed investigations and interrogations to piece together the crime and the whereabouts of others. Which some might see as an impossibility to getting anything done case wise. But this did work, and while it was not 100%, many a criminal was brought to justice in this manner. If anything, the old school nature of criminal investigations is top of mind today, simply because it was put on display in the next episode of Dalgliesh on Acorn TV. A feat that ‘Cover Her Face’ accomplished by way of a complex case for Adam to handle.

For a wealthy and influential family came to discover one fine morning that their live-in maid, Sally, had passed away in the middle of the night and well, it looked like murder. After all, there was a sleeping agent in her bedtime drink, and it became clear that someone smothered her in her sleep. So, it was up to Adam to uncover the truth and well, that was no easy task. Because there were no fingerprints on the glass outside of Sally’s and well, there was just no forensic evidence to be found at all. That meant, Adam had to dig deep into every person’s life and their doings, and basically work out a confession from someone regarding this or hope that clues appeared along the way and that led… to a sorrowful and brutal pair of episodes.

Wherein we were reminded of the horrors of the world and how so many suffer in silence, since Sally had some unique secrets of her own in her life. Plus, we were also reminded of the out-of-touch nature of the wealthy. Since everyone in the family harbored awful and close-minded views on Sally and well, those beliefs helped to bring forth the reveal that the matriarch of this family committed the dark act in question, out of the belief that Sally embarrassed her family’s precious standing. But the effort it took to get there is what made this episode of note. Since Adam left no stone unturned and truly had to use every ounce of trust and skill, and bit of knowledge regarding people… along with a smidge of guile… to bring out the truth. Which made for an incredible tale.

For it really has been a long time since we’ve seen a police serial go this route investigation wise. But it was indeed engaging and powerful. Since it spoke to the secrets we keep and how murder is indeed a complex act that often harbors multiple factors. Plus, it was just simply cool to enjoy some old school police work. For interrogations now in these stories end quick because of the digital and forensic evidence in hand. But here, it was all about the art of the conversation and the power words have over people and that was a real treat to watch, and it does leave us wondering, what other surprises and unique moments await us, in the season three finale of this magnificent and wondrous show. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Eleven of ‘Brilliant Minds’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
 
There are a great many reasons that people have eagerly tuned into the hit NBC series, Brilliant Minds. For some, it is the refreshing plot and the beautiful messages it harbors. Since this is a medical drama unlike any other out there. One that focuses on the power of healing and community and features refreshing cases based on ones from real life. For others, it’s the acting. Since this cast is made up of modern legends and true rising stars in the industry. But regardless of what reason you stand by, there’s one that we all share in when it comes to why we tune into this magnificent series. Specifically, the characters. For they are easily relatable and feel real, and they truly represent the best aspects of humanity. 
 
For they work to embrace change and work toward better goals and a bettering themselves, and that serves as its own magnificent healing journey and well, that is why this week’s episode of the show is of note. Simply because ‘The Other Woman’ focused upon the characters we love, and their journey toward being more and being better, while reminding us why that’s so important, and it accomplished that, through several powerful storylines. One of which involved Carol. Who spent her time learning about the importance of having agency in this life and standing up for oneself. Because having the other woman in her care, under a psych hold, helped her to understand that she has spent many years now listening to others and following their demands. When she needed to be in charge of her own path and needed to do what she wanted to feel good. Which helped her to be free of this toxic patient and her toxic relationship. To enjoy agency and peace and we should all be working toward that. Since it does give us endless strength. 
 
Meanwhile, Dr. Wolf was dealing with the fact that he harbored some prejudices toward change. For a Tourette’s patient in his care wanted to badly be free of it, and with Dr. Nichols’ help, he could be. For a revolutionary surgical procedure was available to him, one that should control his ticks, and he wanted that badly. Because he did not find joy in life as it currently stood. But Wolf did fight that, because he believed badly in the beauty of who we are as individuals and that led to some sour moments from him, the kind where Nichols offered him some hard truth. In that, we don’t necessarily lose ourselves when we opt to change, we just transform and grow, and we should all want that, so we aren’t stuck and aren’t feeling akin to that patient. Which were words that Wolf took to heart and he opted to try and be more open in this life and work toward change while still embracing the best parts of himself, and that made for some beautiful moments for certain.
 
But there was more for this story to explore, all of which came forth via Wolf’s associates and the love triangle that’s been brewing. Because Van and Nash worked to try to one up another in some silly attempt to flex their muscles in a machismo fashion. Which led to many a silly moment and some scalding side eye from Dr. Wolf, who was well aware of what was going on. But thankfully, these men eventually acted their age, for the most part, and dropped that nonsense out of the understanding that they had a job to do, and that Ericka could make her own decisions. But even then, it was hard to let all of the emotional nonsense go, since Nash took one last parting shot, and while we should feel anger over this, it was designed to remind to us… of the little things we hold onto and how hard they are to let go because they give us comfort. But we should drop them post haste. Simply because life is too short and too surprising to let childhood stupidity exist, as evidenced by the ending of this tale.
 
Since one fine night for Ericka, ended in disaster. For her building collapsed with her inside the elevator, and now we don’t know if she is okay. All of which spoke to the fragility of life and how so much can be taken from us in a single moment and that was poignant and brought home a powerful character study. One that truly allowed for everyone to grow in some capacity, and that made for an important story. One that showcased how we can be better and can do more when we apply ourselves. But alas, we’d be foolish to not point out that all of us now, are deeply worried about Ericka and things to come. For she has become quite important to us as viewers and she is critical to the story, and we want her to be well and grow with her friends. But in a show where reality wins the day, there are no guarantees, and it will be fascinating to see what comes out of this incredible twist in the weeks to come. Until next time.

Please enjoy this exclusive sneak peek and synopsis of the season finale of You Would Do It Too (Tú También lo Harías), which you can stream on Apple TV+ tomorrow!
 
Episode 108 - The Truth
Season finale. Armed with the truth, Garza takes matters into his own hands. 

Truly, one of the most impactful franchises in recent years, has to be Dexter. Simply because it took the serial killer story to a whole new level, courtesy of a unique and transformative plot that plunged us into the life a different kind of killer. One who was broken for certain, but human enough that we understood him but never idolized him. Not to mention, his journey offered up some unique questions about justice in our world and what it means to take matters into one’s hand, villain or not. 
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If anything, this concept was so powerful and so impactful in nature, that it gave rise to eight seasons, a wrap up story for Dexter himself, and now… an origin story. For Dexter: Original Sin, debuts on Paramount+ this Friday, and it is set in 1991 Miami and follows Dexter (Patrick Gibson) as he transitions from student to avenging serial killer. When his bloodthirsty urges can’t be ignored any longer, Dexter must learn to channel his inner darkness with the guidance of his father, Harry (Christian Slater), and well, to properly prepare everyone for this new chapter in the Dexter-verse, Paramount+ offered up quite the gift.

In that, all eight seasons of the original series, Dexter, have been unlocked ahead of Original Sin’s release. Which allow for hardcore fans of the show to revisit those early days, and the Trinity Killer and beyond. Whereas new fans can learn of that monster’s horror and learn about Dexter’s epic journey. All before settling in to see the next two chapters in the story. Since Dexter: New Blood is also available to stream as well.

All of which really is, quite the gift from Paramount+. For fans love being able to settle in and binge a complete story in one place, and that can finally happen with this important franchise. One that truly explored the madness of a killer, whether or not he can be redeemed and now… we will learn, starting this Friday… what made Dexter into a killer and what truly put him down the unique path that has captivated us for decades on end.

If there is one particular moment that everyone dreams of when it comes to the pursuit of our dreams, it would have to be the days that follow having our dream in hand. Simply because we outright believe that there will be a grand peace that accompanies that big moment. Wherein we can collect our giant check and perhaps… sleep for a couple of days and catch one’s body up after so many sleepless nights. Or perhaps we can walk out of our day job in a dramatic and fulfilling manner before enjoying some serious downtime. To perhaps sleep. For we expect there to be some incredible measure of joy and peace that follows finally having what we want. Because finally, we did it, and easy street is what remains and well… it doesn’t take long for us to learn that none of that happens when we reach the top. At least, not right away.
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Because what we always forget when it comes to our dreams, is that life doesn’t end when our dreams begin. There are still bills to pay, in fact, there’s probably some debts we need to settle when we’ve reached the peak of the mountain. There’s still drama to be found and while we might be free of the day job and enjoyed the tearful goodbyes that accompanied bidding farewell to the office… there’s still work to be done. So much work. Because now… we have to maintain what we’ve claimed and well, that hard truth and what all that looks like, are top of mind today, simply because the next episode of Heels takes the time to showcase all of that in its next episode, and that made ‘The Journey is the Obstacle’, an even more powerful episode the second time around. 

For it really does explore all of those elements, which this story accomplished by spending a lot of time at the Duffy Dome, with Jack and the gang, mainly because… it was indeed back to work. Because the league had to handle the whole Crystal Tyler mess. Which brought forth ups and downs for both Jack and Crystal. For Ms. Tyler, that mostly involved the fact that Jack had to strip her of her title and set up a new match for her to earn it to make the title legit. Which left her upset and angry, and ready to snap because for her… the wonder and majesty of being the champion allowed for her head to float off into the clouds. But thankfully, Willie pulled her back down to Earth and explained to her the why, and that helped her focus and get her title back. But more importantly, it did showcase how we don’t always get to sit back and revel in the wonder of our accomplishments, we have to work to maintain them. 

Speaking of Jack, well, he definitely faced some tougher pressures regarding this lesson. Simply because he too… had a measure of belief that easy street was on the horizon. After all, the DWL was the talk of the wrestling world. But it quickly became clear, that success wakes up those we owe debts to since collectors were calling, and it was up to him to keep the league in the news. Which meant, he needed to focus, get those scripts going and build on this momentum and that was work he was not prepared for initially. But he worked to commit to making that happen, since he too learned about maintaining a plateau. But he also came to learn… about how life goes on while we enjoy our new title of Ruler of Our Domain. Since there were still troubles at home for him to deal with via Staci and Thomas, and that was not going well in the slightest despite his best efforts. Plus, his star wrestler, was now MIA.
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If anything, Ace’s journey in this story explored another concept that is rarely discussed regarding our dreams. In that, sometimes success in a manner that isn’t perfect… can put us in quite the reflective state. Wherein we just ponder upon our path, and whether or not we deserve where it has taken us. Which is what Ace did here. Since he hit the road and really pondered upon his life, his path, and everything in between. Which gave us some fascinating insight into the man, while showcasing the reality of imposter syndrome, and how self-worth can impact how we respond to success. All of which are important points to ponder upon when success finds us in the most unconventional manner, and it is something we all might have missed the first time around thanks to that literal cliffhanger ending. But that’s why you rewatch, to enjoy moments such as these.

Of which, there were plenty in this tale. In fact, this episode was simply a masterclass in how to portray realism. Which is a testament to writer Mike O’Malley’s skill set, since it is his script that made this episode feel more akin to live observation than orchestrated filmmaking, and it’s a wonderful thing Mike went this route. Because this is the stuff we need to think about when chasing our dreams, so we don’t stumble about as the Spade boys and their friends did here. If anything, this episode really did offer up, a refreshing examination on the pursuit of our dreams and it just reminds us of how special this show is and how it truly goes where dramas never go, and that’s all the more reason it needs a third season and beyond, and all the more reason to continue this rewatch. To learn more about the human condition and the ups and down that accompany the pursuit of our dreams.

Please enjoy this sneak peek and synopsis of Episodes 303 and 304 of Dalgliesh, which are available to stream on Acorn TV now!
 
Episode 3 – “Cover Her Face, Part 1” – Premieres Monday, December 9 on Acorn TV
A murder in the house of an influential family brings Commander Dalgliesh to the heart of Essex. As he considers the prospect of a politically motivated attack, a local man comes forward with an explosive allegation.
*Directed by Bertie Carvel.
 
Episode 4 – “Cover Her Face, Part 2” – Premieres Monday, December 9 on Acorn TV
Through a pair of grueling interrogations, the victim’s life comes into sharper focus, but will it lead the police to their killer? After a shocking confession is made, Dalgliesh realizes he has been lied to.

Caution: This rapid recap of Episode 550 of ‘Life After Lockup’ contains spoilers.
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Please enjoy this rapid recap of Episode 550 of Life After Lockup on WE tv, along with a refresher clip!

EPISODE 550 – “Love Is A Sacrifice” – Aired November December 6th on We TV at 8pm ET/PT
Kim reveals the DNA results. Bianca is shocked by Daniel’s promise. Melissa’s trust issues upset Louie. Britney leaves Kerok behind. Tennie ambushes Rob. Troy fights for his daughter. Michael fears for Justine’s life as she faces a risky delivery.

​When it comes to documentary style filmmaking in this day and age, audiences are definitely running into quite the problem with it. In that, there’s been a titanic shift to make these stories as dramatic as possible. Which is bringing forth tales that are more about flash and that’s creating a problem when it comes to the facts in documentaries as well. Since so many documentaries are eager now to tell stories that are deeply grounded in bias and in doing so… offer little information since they are now locked into an agenda and a purpose, and what’s truly problematic about all of this, is the sheer fact, that this is not what documentaries are supposed to stand for.
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They are in fact, supposed to teach us about a particular topic in a manner that is objective and fluid. Free from the trappings of fiction. But thankfully there is some push back regarding that right now. For there are documentarians that are working hard to tell stories that hold to those elements, and it just so happens that a new one on Viaplay offers up objectivity and fact-based teaching to explore the rise and fall of one of the biggest bands to ever grace popular media in Ace of Base: All That She Wants. Which are feats that this documentary/docuseries accomplishes by offering up the most comprehensive look at the band in history. One that leaves no stone unturned, to the point where we are even treated to the humble origins of the band.

Wherein we learn how they basically… stumbled their way into ultra stardom through a desire to make some kickass music, and in turn… that led to years of pop chart domination and the hits we know and love and still turn up loudly when they pop up on the radio or the streaming service of our choice. But it does indeed make a point to explore how the band split and some of the scary stuff they encountered whilst enjoying fame and that is where this documentary separates itself from the rest. Because there was absolutely a chance to use a scary encounter with a fan, and the shifting dynamics of the band to lean into sensationalism and nonsense drama. But instead… the facts are presented as just that, and that allows for an objective understanding of something we don’t discuss enough when it comes to celebrities.

In that, they are people too, and they have wants and desires, and expectations for their careers, and we see that on display. Since we hear first-hand about how hard this journey was at times for some of the band members, about the feelings that were hurt by certain decisions, and yes… what goes through a celebrity’s mind when a crazed fan crosses every line imaginable. Which makes for a supremely engaging documentary. One that removes the mystique behind this band and presents them as the people they are. Which in turn, helps us to understand and appreciate the music they assembled for the world in a different light and helps us to also appreciate the sacrifices made, and the work that went into entertaining the hell out of each and every one of us with the toe-tapping tunes this band created. 

All of which gives rise, to a definitive documentary. One that truly explores the journey toward stardom in a manner that we rarely see in any form of storytelling. Since this documentary informs us that a meteoric rise is indeed rushed and chaotic and powerful, and not for the faint of heart, and that what separates legends from one hit wonders is how a band or an individual artist responds to that rise. For when fame comes calling, it cares not about doubt or thought, it demands the best and that is what Ace of Base answered the call with, and hopefully you take a moment to check this magnificent documentary out. To garner new perspective on a band that truly made its mark on the world, courtesy of their genuine desire to create something special, and courtesy of a documentary that tells their story in an honest and objective manner.  

Truly, there are few shows out there that have captivated audiences the way that Reacher has. Which can be attributed to the fact that that this Prime Video series truly captures the essence of a wildly popular character, and it features amazing interpretations of Lee Child’s compelling books. Plus, the acting is top notch and really… this show simply offers catharsis. Because we live in a time where it seems that no one is looking out for the little guy. But Jack Reacher is, and fictional or no, it’s nice to see someone stand up for those who cannot. 
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All of which has left us eager for more from this amazing series and well, Prime Video was kind enough today to provide us with more, courtesy of an amazing set of holiday gifts. For not only was it announced when the third season of the show will drop, but we also received a teaser trailer for season three. One that informs us that it will be epic in nature. But you don’t have to take our word for it. Because Prime Video was kind enough to send over that trailer and updated details on season three of this incredible show, which we will share with you now, to help you prepare for the return of a beloved hero.

‘Today, Prime Video announced Reacher Season Three will premiere Thursday, February 20, 2025 with the release of an adrenaline-fueled teaser trailer. The announcement was made to a jam-packed audience at CCXP on the famous Thunder Stage in São Paulo, Brazil, where Alan Ritchson, who stars in the titular role, was in attendance alongside cast member Maria Sten (“Frances Neagley”) and executive producer and author of the Jack Reacher novels, Lee Child. The eight-episode season will roll out weekly, with the first three episodes premiering on February 20, and subsequent episodes dropping every Thursday through March 27, 2025, exclusively on Prime Video in more than 240 countries and territories worldwide. After the second season was the most viewed release in 2023 on Prime Video, it was announced earlier this year that Reacher had received an early renewal for a fourth season which will begin shooting in 2025. 
 
Based on Lee Child’s novel Persuader, in the third season of the action-packed series, Reacher hurtles into the dark heart of a vast criminal enterprise when trying to rescue an undercover DEA informant whose time is running out. There he finds a world of secrecy and violence—and confronts some unfinished business from his own past. The series stars Alan Ritchson in the titular role as “Jack Reacher” with Maria Sten reprising her role as “Frances Neagley.” New to the cast this season are Anthony Michael Hall, Sonya Cassidy, Brian Tee, Johnny Berchtold, Robert Montesinos, Daniel David Stewart, and Olivier Richters. 
 
Based on the novels by Lee Child, Reacher is produced by Amazon MGM Studios, Skydance Television, and CBS Studios. Reacher is written for television by Emmy-nominated writer Nick Santora (FUBAR, Prison Break), who also executive produces and serves as showrunner. In addition to Santora and Child, Ritchson will serve as an executive producer, along with Don Granger, Scott Sullivan, Mick Betancourt, and David Ellison, Dana Goldberg, and Matt Thunell for Skydance. Carolyn Harris and Kenny Madrid are the executives-in-charge of the series for Skydance Television.’ 
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