Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Season Three Finale of ‘The Madame Blanc Mysteries’. To revisit Season Three’s Penultimate Episode, click here.
One particular truth about crime dramas that fans of the genre can agree upon, is that these stories are, at their core… supremely unpleasant in nature… and rightfully so. Because we are talking about crime here, an act that creates fear and often takes lives in these shows and there’s nothing pleasant about that, no matter how quickly the criminal is brought to justice and regardless of how much spin the story provides us with, via say… a cozy mystery. But we like them nevertheless because they do offer escapism and a sense of justice in a world where that isn’t always the case. But that reality does beg one particular question… will there ever come a day when a crime drama is in fact, positive in nature? Well as it turns out, that day has indeed come. For the season three finale of The Madame Blanc Mysteries on Acorn TV, actually managed to offer up a supremely positive and uplifting crime story. That is… after ‘Windows’ outright fooled us. For this story made it seem as though Patrick was in a lot of trouble. For an old gangster named Sonny was getting out of jail for a murder he committed in front of Patrick back in 1995, and Sonny contacted Patrick to let him know… that he was ready to claim a treasure that he believed he was robbed of one that fateful night. One that hid behind a clue that he told Patrick to keep safe. So, naturally Patrick enlisted the help of Jean and Dom, because he didn’t have the treasure, and needed their help in deciphering the clue to find it. Except, that didn’t quite go to plan either. Because everywhere that Jean thought the clue was leading to, ended up being something of minimal monetary value, but of great value to others… or something sorrowful. Since the concept of the clue helped her to find out that her late husband was indeed married to Barb as she claimed, giving rise to a little sorrow to add onto great worry. Since Sonny confronted Patrick at the pub and Dom was off worrying about his health. Making it seem as though, real darkness was upon us in this finale. But Sonny’s visit is where this story took quite the amazing turn. Simply because, this old gangster wasn’t actually out for revenge, he wanted to find the treasure for far more noble reasons. Specifically, he wanted to pay off his moral debt for taking a life by using the cash from the treasure to do right in the community. But the lack of a treasure made it seem as though this bad man turned good would not get his wish. But some fine sleuthing on Jean’s part, allowed for the treasure to be found and helped her figure out the fine price it would fetch on the market. Giving peace to a broken soul and giving rise to one positive tale. One where crime was involved yes, but it paid, and it was reformed and was eager to do good. Which is rare in this genre, but it was refreshing to experience to say the least and gave rise to a tale that put a smile on our faces, especially when we take a moment to think about Dom’s journey and that wondrous ending. Because we also came to learn that his health was of no concern. But the possibility that could change at some point, prompted Dom to realize that life is precious, and life is short, and that he should seize every opportunity in front of him. So, he finally told Jean about the deep feelings her harbored for her, and how he believed they should finally be together, and he was gifted, with joy and mutual desire. Giving rise to one happy ending. One that truly served as the anthesis of the crime drama. Because the bad guy turned good, and he wanted to do amazing things, and there was no long-term suffering in this tale… just joy. Which really does make for a unique and refreshing season finale, one that leaves us eager for more of this show, and hopefully we get a season four announcement soon. So, we can see this show defy convention again, and see how this bourgeoning love affair, one we’ve been eagerly waiting for… grows and grows. Watch ‘The Madame Blanc Mysteries’
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Written by John Edward Betancourt One unfortunate truth about television and film, is that both mediums have presented Latin Americans in a supremely negative light for decades on end. To the point now, where it is almost commonplace for Latin American men to be portrayed as thugs or gangster-esque characters of low intelligence, complete with uncouth nature, in popular media. Not to mention, that similar low expectations exist for Latin American women in television and film. Since they tend to be portrayed as boisterous and grating and/or take part in destructive lifestyles, and it doesn’t end there. Since these portrayals also feature ugly stereotypes that are embarrassing and cliché in nature, and well… thankfully we are reaching a point where such an unfortunate truth is beginning to come to an end. In part because there is a titanic shift in the industry, wherein people behind the scenes are speaking up about the need to end the negative portrayals and stereotypes that have been present for far too long, and so are audiences. Which is creating change, and that change is also being spearheaded by under-represented individuals. Who understand the importance of shattering tropes and stereotypes and how the industry should instead, showcase the wonder of other cultures and lifestyles, and one particular show that is leading the charge in such matters, is Lopez vs Lopez on NBC. For this sitcom goes beyond mere laughs. It really is a trailblazing series, one that is the most important television show on the air right now and well, here is why. Simply because… this really is a series that is tearing down the many stereotypes that are cast upon Latin Americans in the television landscape. For every single character in this show, is the polar opposite of what we normally see. For there are no thugs here, no sassy catchphrases and other such nonsense. We are instead presented with a wondrous family, filled with people who harbor hopes, dreams, great intelligence and great drive to be better people and that truly is something new and exciting to see regarding the portrayal of Latin American individuals on television. Since it showcases Latin-A individuals as they are; everyday people who happen to be tied to a rich culture, and it is that culture that also helps to make this show so important and so revolutionary in nature. Because this series, showcases often the rich traditions that permeate Latin culture. But in a supremely unique manner. Wherein they aren’t spotlighted in a way that calls them out, they’re simply part of the fabric of the show, and where Mayan and her family just take part in them. Which allows for the audience to simply immerse themselves in those traditions and experience their wonder. Giving rise to a beautiful education for those who aren’t aware of such traditions, while also allowing for inclusivity to take place. Since any Latin American individual familiar with them, will feel right at home when watching the show. Such as those of us who have had the honor of attending a quinceañera or know of a mother’s love of tinsel on the Christmas tree so that La Buena Noche is a perfect noche indeed. Pero, while those elements alone would allow for this series to stand out and trailblaze, and be as important as it is, there are still more reasons that this series needs to be celebrated. Such as the fact… that it is truly a progressive thinking series. For this is that rare show that is eager to also hold up a mirror to the toxic aspects of Latin American culture, and the toxic traits and behaviors that people from all walks of life take part in, and address how we fix them. Because this is a series grounded in what it means to grow as individuals and what it would take to heal a family in 2024, and the only way to do that, is to explore the root cause at hand and what steps have to be taken to heal from it and move on from it. Which brings forth some powerful stories for certain, that leave us with plenty to think upon. All of which really does give rise to one revolutionary series. One that just so happens to be a funny sitcom as well, which allows for the lessons at hand to be easily digested. But truly, this is a series that needs to be spotlighted, fawned over, and seen and spoken of as often as possible. For showrunner Debby Wolfe, and stars George Lopez, and his daughter Mayan, have done something incredible here. They’ve given rise to a wonderous story that celebrates so much, tackles so much and truly taps into the zeitgeist of the moment. But above all, they’ve created a wondrous and breathtaking sitcom that transcends the nonsense that has hung over television for far too long, to present us with a story about the human condition and what it takes to find happiness, and thankfully, we don’t have to wait all that much longer to experience its wonder once again. For Lopez vs Lopez returns to the airwaves tonight on NBC with back-to-back episodes at 8:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. EST, and we here at NTG simply cannot wait to watch more of this critically important show, and geek out about it with all of you. Because this series… really is something special… thanks to its brave storytelling and desire to finally showcase Latin Americans in an honest light. Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Season Two Finale of ‘The Way Home’. To revisit Season’s Two Penultimate Episode, click here.
Over the course of the past couple of months, we’ve gone on quite the emotional journey courtesy of the Hallmark Channel series, The Way Home. For season of this show, has dealt with some incredibly heavy material. Since it has explored in great detail, what grief looks like, and the many steps that we take to heal from it, and how hard that can be. Since grief will prompt us to do some stupid things and make decisions that are dubious and frustrating. The kind that the fans of this show have spoken loudly about with surprise on social media. But that is how we function through grief and the show deserves applause for pointing this out and for beginning the healing process. Because slowly but surely, the Landry women and the people around them, have started to heal and are working toward that peace and at long last… the lessons they’ve been fighting to resist or learn finally began to settle into their minds in ‘Bring Me to Life’ and wonders came forth because of that. For instance, Kat finally came to understand that she cannot control the world, just her actions and knowing that… allowed for her to say goodbye to Thomas when his number was called by Cyrus, and that finally gave her peace and prompted her to settle into the moment and think upon the present and in doing so, she uncovered wonders. Such as Susannah’s story, something she could publish and make an impact upon the literary and historical world. Giving rise to a change in course and peace for her, and she wasn’t alone in finding that. Since Del, while having second thoughts about selling the farm, stuck to doing so. Mainly because she really did come to understand that she could no longer let the past hang heavy over her, that she had to live, she had to see where this new relationship might go, and just relinquishing control to the flow of life for a bit, would help with that. Which gave her a sense of peace as well, as did the gift from Thomas, and it was just incredible to watch these two find that, by finally learning the lessons at hand and yet, there was still more healing and joy to be found here. Since Elliot finally got his ‘five more minutes’, a moment that spoke to how just focusing on the wonder of the person we lost helps us find what we need, and Alice finally got her answers as to how there was a void in her family, and that allowed for her to use that truth to bring her family back together. Which more or less means that the show wrapped up the healing journey here, and finally gave the Landry family the calm it has craved for so long, and the new chapter they never thought they would see and well, it now makes sense as to why this show took the time to use two seasons to explore the core of grief and the journey to heal. Because clearly the newly announced third season is going to explore bigger concepts that were introduced here. Since THAT surprise visitor is a huge deal, and the same goes for the revelations he dropped upon Kat’s world. Not to mention THAT reveal also speaks to the reality that there is so much more to this universe than the intimate journey we went on this season. For the Pond harbors many a secret and many a surprise and now, with peace in hand, the show can dive into that and all the emotional challenges that will accompany new truths. But while we wait to learn about the Pond’s secrets and enjoy the other surprises it will send our way; we can celebrate one amazing season finale. One that wrapped up a long and winding emotional journey for the Landry family and showcased that when done with care and when done with respect, stories about grief and healing can be powerful and compelling, and they can indeed show us how much work goes into healing and the reward that comes with the work, regardless of the mistakes we will make because we are in fact, only human. But thankfully, the healing journey has begun, and it will be interesting to see what Del, Kat, and Alice, and even Elliot, do with their newfound strength and emotional understanding when we return to the farm in season three of this magnificent and moving series. Until next time. Watch ‘The Way Home’
Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Series Premiere of ‘Parish’.
Stories that revolve around loss, or hard times or both… tend to focus on supremely specific moments regarding those concepts. In that, they either look at the moment the darkness begins or plunge us into a moment down the line, where the character we will be spending time with, is deeply suffering. All in the hopes of taking us on quite the moving and emotional journey. One designed to showcase how life is always darkest before the dawn and how we find our way to the light in the midst of the suffering. Which these stories are inclined to do, to inspire us obviously, and to offer teachable moments. Since there will come a day where we find ourselves dealing with loss, hard times… or both. But while that does indeed make for some engaging storytelling, the kind that we can take plenty from, at the same time… it does do a bit of disservice to the healing process. Simply because, it only shows us the endgame. Instead of informing us of what comes before the moment we realize we must work harder and be better if we want peace and calm in this life. Specifically, the moment in time… where we are quite the fool in nature. Where we mope, we sulk, we push back on anything that might be healthy for us and of course… where we engage in behaviors that are toxic in nature. To settle a score in our minds or perhaps… to feel something when we cannot and well, we need to see this part of the process, to truly learn and truly understand how we heal, so perhaps we recognize our more unfortunate behaviors and change course sooner. If anything, this particular part of the human condition is top of mind today, simply because… it serves as the central focus of the series premiere of the new AMC/AMC+ series, Parish. Which is a story that revolves around a man named Gracián ‘Gray’ Parish, who should be a seen as a shining example of what happens when we work toward something more. For Gray is a man that left behind a thriving career in the criminal underworld, as a driver, to start a family, to start a legitimate driving business and to lead a wholesome life. But alas, when we meet Gray in this ‘Pilot’, ride sharing has cut deeply into his business, and it now stands on the precipice and to complicate matters further, Gray recently lost his son. Which deeply wounds him emotionally and makes him unavailable to his wife and his daughter. But despite facing great pressures and emotional pain, Gray does his best to walk between worlds and keep life normal to prevent trouble… but those efforts only go so far in this tale.
For an old friend named Colin, who worked with Gray often back in the day, returns to the fold, with quite the problem. In that, he is in trouble with some powerful underworld figures and hopes that Gray will stand by him and help him clear that trouble up. A request that is initially rebuffed by Gray, since that life no longer makes sense to him. But the thought of being behind the wheel again, of feeling a thrill, of feeling something during this scary time in his life, eventually becomes too great to ignore, prompting Gray to meet the mysterious man known only as the Horse and sit behind the wheel for him and for Colin, consequences be damned. But that’s just it, the consequences will be far and wide, as evidenced by the closing moments of this tale.
Wherein it becomes so clear that Gray’s choices here were poor and scary in nature and may not be easy to back away from. But he did commit to a choice, all because of the pain surging through him and well, that perfectly encapsulates the central theme in question. For we are indeed in the thick of a man in crisis. Who has grief surging through his veins, alongside a dose of anxiety and great worry about the future and that can in fact prompt us to act out and do stupid things and put ourselves in dangerous and stupid situations. To feel something stronger, to perhaps punish ourselves in ways that relate to our pain and that makes this a vastly different type of crime drama. One that features a flawed character that is desperate to find peace but is pulled in two directions by two different worlds. All of which will lead to a powerful story, one that will undoubtedly see that struggle play out and potentially inform us… what rock bottom looks like so we can climb out or remind us of the sobering fact… that sometimes people are lost to the darkness. But while we wait to see what Gray’s struggle looks like and indulge deeper in parts of the human condition that are uncomfortable in nature, we can celebrate a perfect series premiere. One filled to the brim with beautiful writing, powerful moments through incredible performances that truly set the stage for a moving and devastating journey, through the past, through our pain and through the ugliness of life that prevents us from finding happiness or at the least… delays us from holding that peace in our quivering and hungry hands. Until next time. To learn more about Colin’s journey in this story, please visit our interview with the actor that plays him, Skeet Ulrich. Watch ‘Parish’
Written by John Edward Betancourt
Eleven years ago, quite the important television show hit the airwaves. One that managed to captivate audiences with its unique story, one that challenged the human condition by asking what it means to be human. What it means to accept the reality we are given and so much more, and Orphan Black offered up such an incredible journey, that we are indeed talking about it eleven years later and… we as fans are also preparing now… for the next chapter in the saga.
For recently, AMC Networks announced that a sequel series entitled, Orphan Black: Echoes, is on its way to our television screens. In fact, it will premiere on June 23, 2024 on AMC, AMC+ and BBC America and this new chapter in the story, one starring Krysten Ritter, will undoubtedly be as epic as its predecessor and ask new questions of the human condition. But you don’t have to take our word for it. Because in addition to letting it be known when this new series will debut, AMC also released some plot details and a teaser trailer, that we will share with you now, as we prepare for the return of the Clone Club and the wonders this storytelling universe has to offer. ‘AMC Networks announced that the highly-anticipated drama Orphan Black: Echoes set in the world of Orphan Black and starring Krysten Ritter (Marvel’s Jessica Jones, Love and Death), who also serves as executive producer, will premiere Sunday, June 23 on AMC, AMC+ and BBC AMERICA. The announcement was made as part of the celebration of the groundbreaking series, Orphan Black’s 11th anniversary, tomorrow, Saturday, March 30. Set in the near future, Orphan Black: Echoes takes a deep dive into the exploration of the scientific manipulation of human existence. It follows a group of women as they weave their way into each other's lives and embark on a thrilling journey, unravelling the mystery of their identity and uncovering a wrenching story of love and betrayal. Ritter plays Lucy, a woman with an unimaginable origin story, trying to find her place in the world. The series also stars Keeley Hawes (Bodyguard, It’s A Sin, Line of Duty), Amanda Fix (North of Normal, High School), Avan Jogia (Now Apocalypse, Zombieland: Double Tap), Rya Kihlstedt (A Teacher, One Mississippi) and James Hiroyuki Liao (Barry, The Dropout). Anna Fishko (Pieces of Her, The Society, Fear the Walking Dead) is creator, writer, showrunner and executive producer of Orphan Black: Echoes with John Fawcett, the co-creator of the original series who also directed 17 episodes across all five seasons, on as director and executive producer. David Fortier and Ivan Schneeberg, executive producers from Boat Rocker on the original Orphan Black series, return as executive producers on the new series. Boat Rocker’s Nick Nantell and Kerry Appleyard will also executive produce, in addition to Katie O’Connell Marsh. Boat Rocker manages the Orphan Black global franchise, including content distribution and consumer products. Produced by Boat Rocker, and starring Emmy® winner Tatiana Maslany in multiple roles, Orphan Black, became a cult phenomenon with a passionate fanbase known as the “Clone Club.” Superfans are invited to catch up on AMC+ where all five seasons of the original series are available with more fan-focused engagement slated on social channels over the weekend. Clone Club members are encouraged to follow @OrphanBlack on Twitter and @OrphanBlackTV on Facebook and Instagram for all the latest official news on the Orphan Black universe. Orphan Black received critical and award acclaim, earning a Peabody Award in 2014 and hailed as “thoroughly impressive, wildly entertaining” by The Hollywood Reporter, and as “a singular accomplishment in drama” by The Daily Beast. The series started on a train platform when a troubled woman, Beth Childs (Maslany), locked eyes with an unknown identical woman, Sarah Manning (Maslany), before jumping to her death. From that day on, they’ve been inextricably linked to a clone conspiracy that has come to rule Sarah’s life. Every twist and turn around the maze of this world has led to a new enemy, a new ally, a new clone and always, new questions. How many of us are out there? Who created us? Who is trying to kill us? The search for these answers have sent Sarah and her newly-found sisters Alison (Maslany), Cosima (Maslany) and Helena (Maslany) crashing head first into some of the most nefarious foes and life revelations they could’ve ever imagined. The cast includes Jordan Gavaris, Maria Doyle Kennedy, Kristian Bruun, Evelyne Brochu, Kevin Hanchard, Ari Millen, Skyler Wexler and Josh Vokey. About AMC AMC is home to some of the most popular and acclaimed original programs on television. AMC was the first basic cable network to ever win the Emmy® Award for Outstanding Drama Series with Mad Men in 2008, which then went on to win the coveted award four years in a row, before Breaking Bad won it in 2013 and 2014, and the network’s series The Walking Dead is the highest-rated series in cable television history. AMC’s current original series include Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire, Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches, The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon, The Walking Dead: Dead City, Dark Winds, and the forthcoming series The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live, Monsieur Spade and Parish, among others. AMC is owned and operated by AMC Networks Inc. and is available across all platforms, including on-air, online, on demand, mobile, and on AMC+, the company’s premium streaming bundle featuring content from across AMC and sister networks BBC America, IFC, and SundanceTV as well as streaming services Shudder, Sundance Now and IFC Films Unlimited. About AMC+ AMC+ is the company’s premium streaming bundle featuring an extensive lineup of popular and critically acclaimed original programming from AMC, BBC America, IFC, and SundanceTV and full access to targeted streaming services Shudder, Sundance Now and IFC Films Unlimited, which feature content such as A Discovery of Witches, Creepshow, and Boyhood. The service features a continually refreshed library of commercial-free content, with iconic series from the AMC Networks portfolio including Mad Men, Halt & Catch Fire, Hell on Wheels, Turn: Washington’s Spies, Rectify, Portlandia, Orphan Black and series from The Walking Dead Universe, among many others. The service also offers a growing slate of original and exclusive series including Gangs of London, Dark Winds, and the first two series in a new Anne Rice universe, Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire and Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches. With new movies released every Friday, AMC+ is the newest destination for exclusive film premieres direct from theaters all year long. AMC+ is available in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Spain and is available in the U.S. through AMCPlus.com, the AMC+ app, and a number of digital and cable partners. About BBC AMERICA BBC AMERICA is a hub of innovative, culturally contagious programming including the Peabody Award-winning series Killing Eve starring Golden Globe® and SAG® Award-winner Sandra Oh and Emmy® Award-winner Jodie Comer. The network is the definitive television home and co-producer of the most iconic natural history series and franchises including Planet Earth, Blue Planet, Dynasties, Eden: Untamed Planet, Frozen Planet and Seven Worlds, One Planet. BBCA transforms every Saturday into Wonderstruck, a weekly destination for wildlife and wonder. A joint venture between AMC Networks and BBC Studios (the commercial arm of the BBC), BBCA’s influential shows such as Doctor Who, Orphan Black, Luther and The Graham Norton Show have attracted critical acclaim and earned Emmy® Awards, Golden Globes®, Peabody Awards, Critics’ Choice Awards, NAACP Image Awards, TCA Awards and more. BBC AMERICA is available across all platforms, including on-air, online, on demand and mobile. Find out more by visiting press.amcnetworks.com. BBCA on social: YouTube – Twitter – Instagram – Facebook – Tumblr About Boat Rocker Boat Rocker (TSX: BRMI) is the home for creative visionaries. An independent, integrated global entertainment company, the Company’s purpose is to tell stories and build iconic brands across all genres and mediums. With offices around the world, Boat Rocker's creative and commercial capabilities include Scripted, Unscripted, and Kids and Family television production, distribution, brand & franchise management, a world-class animation studio, and talent management through Untitled Entertainment. A selection of Boat Rocker's projects include: Invasion (Apple TV+), Palm Royale (Apple TV+), American Rust: Broken Justice (Prime Video), Beacon 23 (MGM+), Pretty Baby: Brooke Shields (Hulu), Downey's Dream Cars (Max), BS High (HBO), Orphan Black (BBC AMERICA, CTV Sci-Fi Channel), Dear…(Apple TV+), Billie Eilish: The World's a Little Blurry (Apple TV+), The Next Step (BBC, Corus, CBC), Daniel Spellbound (Netflix), and Dino Ranch(Disney+, Disney Junior, CBC).’ Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Season Two Premiere of ‘American Rust: Broken Justice’.
One particular question that we often ask when we’re entering a wondrous new chapter in our lives or leaving a tough one behind… is what comes next? Because we are oft quite curious what that new chapter will hold, and those uglier days usually involve a measure of healing, and a measure of discovery. So, we ponder upon the lessons we learned and how they will serve us best in our brighter tomorrow. But what’s fascinating, is that we don’t ask that question often enough, when it comes to the more… darker moments in our lives. such as what happens after we hurt someone we care for emotionally, as we are wont to do with sour words from fury. Nor do we really ponder upon what comes next after we’ve crossed a lot of lines that caused a lot of damage. But we should. Simply because the next steps after such acts are quite important in nature. Because they will determine if more trouble is ahead or if we’re on a better path and well, it just so happens that the return of a highly beloved show is going to ponder upon just that at last. For the season two premiere of American Rust: Broken Justice on Prime Video, spends a great deal of time examining what comes next when we’ve done things, we aren’t proud of. A feat that ‘Homecoming’ accomplishes, by catching up with the players from season one, four months after the fatal shootout in West Virginia that Del took part in, and that brings forth… quite the fascinating tale. One that in some ways, takes the time gently reintroduce us to this universe since it’s been a bit since we’ve enjoyed the story but once the re-introductions are out of the way… does the show plunge right into that question through the character’s journeys. For instance, Billy Poe’s idea of what should come next, was a fresh start. Because he had seen enough horrors in jail and endured enough suffering. So, he was fine with taking a piddly payout from the state to do just that. Since it gave him a cushion and time to decide what tomorrow would look like for him and he wasn’t alone in wanting new starts and freedom. For his own mother had similar thoughts in mind. Because Grace was done with having ties to Virgil and wanted nothing more than quality time with Del without her dead marriage hanging over them. Which informed us that the reset button is essential for a lot of folks that might be coming out something so ugly while others… may want to see that ugly chapter come to the right close. Since new Sheriff of Buell, Steve Park was all about proving that Del and Grace crossed all kinds of lines. A move that more or less served as a hint of what else we might explore throughout the season and that’s not a bad thing by any means. Since we do love how this show takes the time to let plot threads grow, and by not focusing on that here, it also allowed for us to learn what comes next for Del Harris. Who perhaps had the darkest chapter of all to deal with because of his actions and well, in Del’s mind, the way forward was through atonement and redemption by returning to old haunts to handle unfinished business. Which was why we found him back as a detective with the Pittsburgh Police Department and why he was working with some unexpected allies in this tale. To really do some good in this world and this life to make right what he had taken. Which further hammered home that absolute need for change following some dark and dreary days. To really shed those feelings and emotions that accompany the darkness. Which is… not exactly the best way to handle such matters, since we all know that self-work and self-accountably are the only real ways to heal. But that’s clearly not a lesson these characters are ready for, and that should bring forth a powerful season of storytelling. One where we get to sit back and watch and see if these characters find what they seek through their aggressive means, or if more dark days and cyclical sorrow await. Which should make for a very realistic story, a place that this show thrives within, and that leaves us eager to continue the journey with a true sense of satisfaction and joy. Because at long last, this beloved series is back on the air and we get to enjoy more powerful stories and more powerful acting, from a different kind of crime drama. One grounded in causality over thrills and chills. Until next time. To learn more about the character’s journeys in season two, and season two in general, check out our interviews with Executive Producers Dan Futterman and Adam Rapp, cast members, Jeff Daniels and Maura Tierney, Alex Neustaedter and Mark Pellegrino, Luna Lauren Velez and Rob Yang, and Julia Mayorga. Watch ‘American Rust: Broken Justice’Written by John Edward BetancourtIt really is quite amazing, how the television landscape has changed during the spring season. For this was once a timeframe of the year where television shows and releases were very miniscule in nature. Simply because April was a great time to get back outside and enjoy nature and forget about television. But now, we consume television in unique ways, on our devices no less, and that allows for us no to enjoy delightful content on our way to our favorite hiking destination or on the way back from it. Which is why networks now offer solid programming year-round, to help us with our hybrid lives and STARZ is no exception to that rule. For they recently released their April 2024 Programming Lineup, and it is clearly designed to keep our minds busy in between moments where we are getting out into the world. Since this is the month where we get the highly anticipated series, Mary & George, starring Julianne Moore. Not to mention, the amazing third season of BMF continues along, and there are some amazing movie additions on the way. So, without further ado, here is that lineup, courtesy of STARZ, to help you plan ahead for your April viewing experience. ‘STARZ announces its programming highlights for the month of April, featuring the series premiere of “Mary & George” and new episodes of “BMF.” On the film front, Beast, Dear David, Halloween Ends, Saw X, and 8 Mile join the STARZ app this month.’ “STARZ Movies Hit Different” Promo“April Tentpoles” PromoSTARZ Original SeriesThe highly anticipated, audacious psychodrama “Mary & George” starring Academy Award-winner Julianne Moore and Nicholas Galitzine is set to debut on Friday, April 5 at midnight on the STARZ app. On linear, it will debut on STARZ at 9:00 PM ET/PT in the U.S. and 10:00 PM ET/PT in Canada. New episodes will air all month long. The seven-part limited series is inspired by the unbelievable true story of Mary Villiers (Moore), who molded her beautiful and charismatic son, George (Galitzine), to seduce King James I (Tony Curran) and become his all-powerful lover. Through outrageous scheming, the pair rose from humble beginnings to become the richest, most titled and influential players the English court had ever seen, and the King’s most trusted advisors. And with England’s place on the world stage under threat from outside forces and rioters taking to the streets to denounce the King, the stakes could not have been higher. Prepared to stop at nothing and armed with her ruthless political steel, Mary married her way up the ranks, bribed politicians, colluded with criminals and clawed her way into the heart of the Establishment, making it her own. Mary & George is a dangerously daring historical psychodrama about an outrageous mother and son who schemed, seduced and killed to conquer the court of England and the bed of King James I.
“Black Mafia Family” (“BMF”) continues its third season with new episodes all month long. “BMF” recounts the inspiring true legends of two brothers Demetrius “Big Meech” Flenory (Demetrius Flenory, Jr.) and Terry “Southwest T” Flenory (Da’Vinchi), who rose from the decaying streets of southwest Detroit in the late 80’s and gave birth to one of the most influential crime families in the country known as the Black Mafia Family. Season three of the highly anticipated gripping crime and family drama continues on Fridays at midnight on the STARZ app. On linear, new episodes will debut on STARZ Fridays at 8:00 PM ET/PT in the U.S. and at 9:00 PM ET in Canada. This season we parachute into the early 90’s with Meech moving to Atlanta where Black excellence is prominent and Black businesses are thriving. Meech seeks to build upon the BMF empire in the south that he and Terry fostered in Detroit and rise to the top of the Atlanta drug scene. In Atlanta, he meets his new love interest, Angel (Kadianne Whyte), an exotic dancer. Terry remains in Detroit to take care of the business and his second child with girlfriend Lawanda (Sydney Mitchell), while juggling his ongoing affair with love interest Markisha (La La Anthony). Yet, as Meech expands BMF outside of Detroit and new local competition comes after Terry, both brothers take on enemies more ruthless in their ways than they have ever seen who threaten to destroy the whole empire. BMF continues to humanize the choices of the brothers’ business, and their pursuits of the American Dream.
Notable Film Additions to the STARZ app in AprilAvailable April 1:
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Notable Film Stunts and Collections available on the STARZ app in April
Notable Marathons 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. Please enjoy this sneak peek and synopsis of the series premiere of Parish. Which debuts on AMC and AMC+ on 3/31/24 at 10:15 p.m. EST/PST! Episode 1 – Premieres Sunday, March 31 at 10:15pm ET/PT on AMC and available to stream on AMC+ Desperate to support his family, Gray returns to his criminal roots for one last job. But after things go sideways, Gray can't walk away. The only way out is through. Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 305 of ‘BMF’. To revisit the previous episode, click here. This article also contains discussions regarding sexual assault and suicide, which may be triggering to some individuals.
Over the course of the past couple of years, Terry and Meech Flenory have seen some ups and downs regarding their quest to build a drug empire in the hit STARZ series, BMF. Simply because this series has made it clear that building such a business is no easy task, and that there are plenty of people that are eager to stand in the way of such acts. In part because they’re part of the game as well and don’t want to see their profits cut into, or because they want what to take what others have built. Giving rise to conflict for these young men, the kind that have been resolved in some supremely unique ways. In that, not only have this duo prevailed every single time, but they’ve done so at minimal cost to their crew and their business. Which has been shocking to say the least. Since the drug game is bloody and dangerous through and through, making it something of a miracle that these men have yet to really face failure and devastating cost from doing business. But as it turns out, that has been nothing short of outright luck for this duo. Because the next episode in this fascinating saga saw the Flenory boys finally face failure and finally come to understand that their rise to the top will be bloody and painful and costly along the way, and that made ‘The Battle of Techwood’ quite the sobering chapter in their journey. One that at first... started out in a manner that made it seem as though it would be business as usual for the Flenory boys. For this story saw Terry swing by Atlanta with his brother to see how the operation was going down south, and of course… the violent nature of the ATL chapter of BMF took Terry off guard. But it was indeed clear that Meech knew how to conduct business down this way and knew exactly what he was doing to keep ahead of the troubles they had faced in the past. To the point where Meech was talking about a trip to St. Louis to grow the business even further. But alas, an attack on their own meant that a violent answer had to be given to the party responsible, and all signs pointed to a counteroffensive against Remi’s crew over in Techwood. Which Stacks was of course, eager to support, since he wanted his crew to ambush both Remi’s boys and BMF, effectively killing two birds with one stone.
But of course… Meech was ready for a double cross and opted to lead a contingent into the heart of Techwood to build a truce in the middle of the day and end around Stacks in the process. But alas, Stacks and his boys got wind of this wind of this and that led… to one brutal battle in Techwood. One that saw Remi’s crew suffer losses untold and the same for BMF. Granted, there was an assist from what was once a rival crew who had everything to gain from BMF’s survival, and Stacks got his at the end of the fight… but the damage was done. BMF was beaten and broken and for the first time, the Flenory boys had a genuine taste of failure, and how costly it was going to be to continue to grow. But it was the path they had chosen and they instead… took a moment to lick their wounds and learn from this madness before going back to business. Which made for one powerful journey for this duo. One that challenged them like never before and what’s incredible… is that this episode had more stunning and powerful moments to send our way.
Courtesy of Bryant, really. Because he was in serious trouble for losing track of Meech, and despite being able to escape immediate assault from Henri’s lackeys, she got revenge on him in the worst way possible. By going after his son. First by having protection for him removed, then by having the former protectors, become assailants. Who beat Kevin mercilessly and well, committed the worst acts of violation possible. By sexually assaulting Kevin. Which devastated him so badly, he felt he had no choice but to take his own life. Which left Bryant rightfully devastated and yet, there was still more disaster to be found in this tale. Since Amberson was shot by Henri, in an attempt to bring down Bryant as well. Giving rise to the reality that Henri is ready to burn it all down to have her own empire. Which means that Terry has quite the fight ahead when he gets back to the D. One he will be fighting on his own since Meech stayed back in the ATL to deal with the fallout of this mess and to rebuild the Atlanta chapter of BMF. All of which sets the stage for an ugly episode next week. But before we ponder upon what might happen there, we can celebrate what is hands down, the best episode of BMF to date. Since this story raised the stakes like never before and challenged this duo like never before, while offering up an important reminder about our quest to be the best. In that, the bigger we get or the deeper we go, the harder the quest becomes. But while this was indeed an incredible tale, make no mistake about it, it was bleak and devastating as well. To the point that Charles’ positive attempt to reconcile with Lucille here is but a mere afterthought, courtesy of Terry and Meech’s first real failure in their quest to reach the top. Until next time. Watch ‘BMF’
Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Four of ‘Manhunt’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
It really is quite amazing, what the Apple TV+ series, Manhunt, is teaching us about the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. Simply because we understood in school that John Wilkes Booth was the man responsible out of general displeasure for emancipation, and that justice was served for his crime. The end. But this series is making it clear that it was a far more complex affair than that. Since we are now learning that the socio-political climate at the end of the Civil War was similar to now, with deep rooted division and ideology. Which were also motivating factors to the execution of this crime and allowed for John Wilkes Booth to have robust resources to evade capture, and of course… the desire for peace over all was keeping justice at bay as well. Since it enabled bad agents to distract and deflect and further push Booth into the abyss surrounding Lincoln’s death. If anything, this series has made it clear that it was nothing short of a miracle that Booth was captured. To the point where we are all wondering what kind of breaks took place to bring law enforcement in his stead and well, the next episode of this fascinating series thankfully explored that. For ‘The Secret Line’ informed us early on that Stanton was deeply frustrated about not being able to bring Booth to bear, and that prompted him to take some unique measures to uncover the Secret Line Booth was using, to intercept him and arrest him at long last. The kind that involved… sticking it to the rich jackasses of New York City. Simply because, no one that has money, in any timeline… likes to be exposed in the slightest, and they’ll do what they must to not experience that again. Which is why Stanton had Detective Baker, stop the flow of money. By arresting the fat cats in the Big Apple. Because then they looked the fool, and that kind of embarrassment would prompt pressure and form cracks in the foundation. The kind that could indeed provide Stanton with an understanding of who to really go after and put even more pressure upon, to get everything he ever wanted and well… his plan worked. The long way round of course. Because at first, solidarity came out of the arrests. But eventually, Stanton’s own, rich, father-in-law was eager to offer ideas and honesty about how best to go after Mister Sanders to stave off further embarrassment. Which involved offering Sanders what he loved the most, money, and well, Sanders agreed to a meeting regarding a chance to be richer… one that transformed into quite the showdown between these foes. For Sanders immediately rebuffed any offer, and instead worked to intimidate Stanton. In the hopes of winning the day and embarrassing a man he deeply despised, and that was shockingly… what Stanton hoped would happen. All because he wanted bravado to get Sanders to slip up, so Stanton could get his hands on any intelligence regarding the Secret Line, and well… this bold and scary gambit paid off in spades. Because by sizing Sanders up and standing tall, he was able to get the man to screw up, and being that close to Sanders, allowed for Stanton to put himself in the mind of his enemy and he figured out that there would be no map or firm document stating where Booth could be. It would be done in arrogant code, such as through shipping manifests, and once Stanton figured that out, he was able to find the Secret Line and head out into the world post haste… to bring a monster to justice. All of which made, for a satisfying episode. Because at last, Stanton was able to go on the offensive, and enjoy huge wins because of it. Thanks to the fact, that Sanders and the other buffoons in his stead truly thought inaction would rule the day. Plus, they never expected anyone to stand up to them. But Stanton did and the payoff was glorious and just like that, progress is finally being made, despite the fact that Booth is on the water and headed for Virginia. But above all, it was just joyous to see Stanton make rich slimeballs squirm and deal with frustration and aggravation over the fact that they cannot just sit around and collect interest while stonewalling justice and well, now that Stanton is on the trail, it will be interesting to see if the manhunt at hand gets any easier. Or if Sanders and his good ol’ boys club will do their best to retaliate to preserve their egos and images. Until next time. Watch ‘Manhunt’
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