Written by John Edward Betancourt There was a time where crime dramas that focused upon the criminal, were fairly two-dimensional in nature. For those stories really just featured flawed individuals, who did nothing more than revel in the darkness of the life they’d created and did their best to thrive between two worlds. Either in the hopes of finding redemption from the darkness or they were simply trying to survive another day and that brought about perfect escapist storytelling. Since readers and viewers knew deep down that no one could ever commit to one side or the other if they’ve walked in both worlds, for we are creatures that prefer to operate in the grey. Which is why somewhere down the line, creatives came to realize that the truth about who we are and individuals that thrive in that space between spaces, had to be reflected in the world of storytelling, and that’s led to a revolution in this corner of the genre. Wherein these individuals now have depth and meaning to their journey as they walk between worlds. Which in turn has given us vastly different stories from this genre, that engage us like never before and well, it just so happens that AMC and AMC+ are about to be home to what might be the definitive series in regard to this type of story. For Sunday, March 31, 2024, will bring forth the debut of Parish, a powerhouse story that we’ve seen in advance and need to discuss with you, in a spoiler-free manner of course. Because crime dramas come with their own unique twists and turns that would be cruel to spoil ahead of time. But what we can talk about, is the magnificent plot of this story, and how it brings about underlying depth and meaning that no other show in this vein has ever offered, and it accomplishes such feats by introducing us to a man named Gracián ‘Gray’ Parish. A man with a dark past. One that he left behind to raise a family and to live a better life, and he happens to be at a crossroads in this story. For the honest car service, he gave life to, is struggling financially in the age of the ride share and he’s dealing with mountains of grief due to a devastating loss in the family, and the pain he carries and the frustrations he harbors over the unfair rules of the everyday world, pushes him to cross a line when an old friend asks for help with a problem. One that involves the world Gray left behind, and crossing that line might be more trouble than it’s worth. Which really does give rise, to one refreshing story. Since this tale is less grounded in functioning between worlds out of choice and instead serves as a hard parable about the poor choices we make when we hurt and are eager to feel when our soul is numb. Giving rise to a moving and emotional story as well, one that deeply engages us since Gray is supremely relatable. Courtesy of what drives him to make those poor choices, since we’ve either walked some portions of Gray’s path here, or will down the line, and of course… there’s more that draws us into this world. Such as the fact that what Gray gets himself into is quite fascinating in nature and explores new territory within the genre as well. But of course, to properly sell a world that is mired in both light and dark, and complete with flawed and struggling characters, a show needs an incredible cast, and you’ll find that here too. Since everyone sells their roles with a unique honesty that compels you continue the journey, with Skeet Ulrich (Colin) and Giancarlo Esposito (Gray) leading the charge with performances for the ages and well, all of these elements bring forth… one of the best shows of 2024. For this one, has it all really. Action, adventure, depth and emotion and themes that stay with us long after an episode ends, and we here at NTG cannot wait for you to see it, nor can we wait to share our interview with Skeet Ulrich as we countdown the days to one refreshing series. ‘Parish’ will make its debut on on AMC and AMC+ on Sunday, March 31 at 10pm ET/PT, following the finale of ‘The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live’. New episodes will then air on Sundays at 9pm ET/PT.
0 Comments
Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 209 of ‘The Way Home’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
Slowly but surely, the hit Hallmark Channel series The Way Home is bringing its overall commentary regarding loss and trauma through grief, into focus. For the characters in this beautiful and moving series are finally being forced to understand the hard lessons that accompany healing and how we begin to pull away from our grief and reassemble our lives and well… this week’s episode of the show, took those lessons to a whole new level by having Kat, Del, and Alice, and Elliot really… begin to learn the most important foundational lesson we can learn when it comes to healing. In that… we must learn that there is little we control in our lives outside of our own actions. Because that really is the first big lesson that lets us heal. For it informs us of the fact that there is or was nothing we could do to prevent the trauma we experienced. For we cannot control when people depart this earth, we cannot control the lives they lead or the decisions they make and the sooner we learn that, and embrace it… the sooner do we begin to find some measure of peace and understand to enjoy the moment and live within it and celebrate the good, and all of that was explored by way of some big moments for the Landry ladies. Such as how Del decided… to sell the farm. Because she was tired of trying to control that which she could not, and deal with uncertainty. So, a sale gave her peace, freedom, and an understanding that she could write her own chapter for the first time in her life, putting her in a new headspace for certain. Whereas Kat, of course, struggled with the lesson at hand. Because despite her best efforts to bring Jacob home and help him to lead a life in the 21st Century, he refused to do so. For he grew up in the past, he knew only his 19th Century family and there was nothing Kat could do to change his mind. Because he was his own person, and grown, and he was free to accept the life he wanted to accept. Which really did put Kat in a tough place, one that offered some solace since she could return at will and visit, but it did not provide her with the exact closure she wanted. But that is life, it takes and gives as it sees fit and there’s nothing, we can do about it but cherish those moments, and well… who knows what it will take for her to learn this since she made another selfish call about the past at the end of this tale. But truly, the person that seemed to understand this lesson the best was Alice. Who spent time in the past after the party to learn that her mom was already pregnant with her, and that Brady immediately wanted them to get married to do right by their forthcoming daughter. Which rally helped Alice to understand we cannot change the past, and that our path forward is all that matters, and she seemed to find real peace in that understanding, and it helped her to set some boundaries, with Elliot no less, to hopefully inspire growth within him. Since he too has hung deeply onto the past and refused to understand the moment matters above all. But what mattered most here is that Alice saw the bigger picture and knows now how best to live life. All of which made, for another brilliant and endearing tale from this series. One that really did point out a critical lesson we call can learn from and embrace. But that aside, we can also champion a story that featured a lot of beauty, some heartache, and some genuinely humorous moments, courtesy of sequences and events that felt shockingly relatable. Except maybe for Nick’s discovery, because that just brought the funny, and that’s not something we will ever deal with. But more importantly, this episode really did set the stage for a finale grounded in beginning the journey toward genuine healing, for the universe is hinting this stagnancy can stand no longer, and it will be interesting to see how that journey gets underway, come next week. Watch ‘The Way Home’
Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 304 of ‘BMF’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
If there is one particular truth that every small business owner will come to learn about the path they’ve chosen, it would have to be that they are going to have to engage in some genuine sacrifice to achieve their goals. They’ll have to sacrifice their time, their energy, and some precious moments that others do not, to see their business succeed. For when you’re the owner, the buck stops with you and the success of the business is all upon the choices and sacrifices you make, and that is a truth that oddly… is one of the rare ones that extends between our world, and the world where the rules don’t always apply, as evidenced by the next episode of BMF on STARZ. For ‘The Return of the Prodigal Son’ featured a big moment for BMF. In that, at long last, how the shipments would arrive was decided upon after much debate, because no one wanted to be surprised or have police interference. So, a plane carrying the goods would arrive in the D and Meech was eager to handle this personally. Which put an immediate hold on his burgeoning life and romance in the ATL, because this needed to be handled by the best, and Meech saw himself as such and that brought him home at last. Which should have brought about a beautiful homecoming sequence and fun, but not on this day. Because all that mattered was the business and getting that weight where it needed to go. Which was why Meech immediately stepped back into the role of the top leader of BMF, and arranged all kinds of surprises to make sure the product was transferred and delivered and flown out of the city properly. Which included getting his hands on a van, using stealth to move his product and of course, calling in all the troops to move the weight, of which there was more of thanks to a communication error. Which meant, a hot deal for anyone who wanted the best product in town awaited them, and well… thanks to Meech’s work, his financial sacrifice regarding profits, and an assist from the pilot… who shut down Bryant and his nonsense, since he tried to follow Meech… the plan went off without a hitch, and product made its way to the right hands. All thanks to focusing on the business and nothing more. But of course, this season has been slightly different in how it tells stories. In that, it takes a little time to explore the lives of others in between moments where Meech and Terry teach us how to build an empire, and those moments were quite compelling. Since they saw Lucille give into temptation with the doctor she adores, alongside a fascinating moment of agency from Nicole, who taught the adults… quite the lesson in humility. Not to mention, this was a chance for Markisha to shine and show Terry a little love, by helping him to get those Child Protective Services charges dismissed against him. All of which just served to remind us that this is indeed a story grounded in life as much as it is education about how the Flenory Drug Empire rose and fell, and the incredible challenges Terry and Meech faced in building and maintaining it. In fact, more challenges it would seem, await Meech upon his return to Atlanta. Since we learned that Stacks is taking his belief that he’s been disrespected to a whole new level, by setting a trap for Meech with the wrong people. A move that will indeed bring about chaos and disruption to the smooth sales that Meech wants to take place. But while we wait to see how Meech handles that, potentially with Terry at his side since he did agree to drop by the ATL, we can celebrate… another brilliant tale in this story. One that really did a fine job of showcasing how there is sacrifice for success in this world as well, since Meech’s tough calls here likely secured BMF’s future with minimal fuss, and this is a story, that of course, entertained and educated and left us eager to learn more of how these two young men conquered the world. Until next time. Watch ‘BMF’
Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 206 of ‘Bosch: Legacy’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
If there is a central theme present in the second season of the wondrous Amazon Freevee series, Bosch: Legacy, it would have to be… that consequences are a very real thing. Because every action, every tough moment, and every decision that Harry Bosch made in season one… has featured some kind of consequence in season two. Not to mention, the actions of others and the actions imparted upon them, have also been mired in consequences and well, the show is showing no signs of slowing down in exploring their reality and their power, as evidenced by the next chapter in this fascinating saga. For ‘Dos Matadores’ featured nothing but consequences for the players in this world. After all, Ramirez was confronted about his ties to the FBI. Giving rise to paranoia and concern for his decision to choose to feed the feds intelligence on Honey and Harry’s machinations. Not to mention, the Nguyen brothers paid the ultimate price for working with Ellis and Long, who are about as dirty and disgusting as they come, and even Mo paid some consequences forward. By taking the time to pull off a little caper at a pharmaceutical company that caused his new sweetheart some trouble. Informing us that consequences are everywhere to be found. The kind that in some instances, are also positive in nature. As evidenced by Harry and Maddie’s journeys. Because despite taking all kinds of heat from the courts and old friends in the LAPD for showing up at the Parks home, which should have brought about ugly consequences, it instead brought forth wonders for the case. In part because the buzz pushed the judge to see if a plea bargain could come into play instead, something that was refused, but did express the need to be done with this, and… concerns about this case allowed for Harry to make a good push regarding learning more about the dead lover in question. To steadily narrow down who might have been the real killer in this case. All of which came forth from one tough choice, but while that was nice, it was rightfully overshadowed by Maddie’s journey here. Because Dockweiler’s sentencing hearing was on the horizon and she had the opportunity to offer up a victim’s statement in the courtroom. An act she wasn’t sure she wanted any part of at first. But some deep thought made it clear that such a choice would be worth her while. To speak for those who could not speak, and to really make that piece of human trash understand what he had done and help him face real consequences for his actions. So, she stood tall and said what needed to be said, undoubtedly helping Dockweiler spend more time behind bars… while helping herself to heal. Which made, for one satisfying end to this tale, one that was one indeed all about causality and how it is inescapable in this life. But that’s not always a bad thing, because truly… sometimes there can be good consequences and we need to focus on that more in life and celebrate that as much as we lament the bad. And well, now that things are in motion for the big case and now that peace has come to Maddie, it will be interesting to see what other consequences lie ahead for these characters. Since the feds are still working a case, and there is someone that wants secrets to be kept, and both parties will undoubtedly punish our heroes, for their choices. It’s just a matter of when. Until next time. Watch ‘Bosch: Legacy’
Written by John Edward Betancourt It is definitely safe to say that season two of the hit NBC series, Night Court, has been quite the treat for audiences everywhere. For not only have the courtroom scenarios been bigger, and funnier, but this is a season of storytelling that has offered the fans so much. Courtesy of some amazing guest stars, alongside cameos from classic cast members, a move that grows the mythos of the show, keeps fans of the classic supremely happy… and also introduces new fans to what came before. If anything, guest stars are top of mind today, simply because that’s going to be a big part of the show’s season two finale. For earlier today, NBC released some details regarding said finale, the kind that informed us that some huge guest stars are dropping by a very special episode. Wherein Ryan Hansen, Julia Duffy, and Gigi Rice join the principal cast and special guest star Marsha Warfield to celebrate Roz’s nuptials. Which is quite the epic way to bring season two home, since it ties together the old guard and the new guard, and features something blue, since Gurgs will undoubtedly be in uniform… and well… to prepare you for this epic season finale, here are all the details on this episode, alongside a bonus; some first-look photos of one wild wedding, courtesy of NBC. “The Best Dan" Airing March 26 at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT on NBC Roz finds herself in court after her wedding venue falls through, prompting Abby to offer up the courthouse for the big day in the season two finale episode airing Tuesday, March 26 (8:00 p.m. ET/PT). It’s all hands on deck to keep the special day in order! Dan strikes up a connection with a wedding guest who has ties to his past, only to realize that his reputation precedes him. Abby and Jake, cautious that the wedding may kick things into high gear, set rules to keep their relationship casual. Gurgs suspects foul play with the wedding arrangements and enlists Olivia, Wyatt and Flobert to help investigate. About “Night Court” Court is back in session! When the perpetually sunny judge Abby Stone (Melissa Rauch) takes the night shift in her father’s old courtroom, she presides over some of New York’s most unique and unusual cases – with an oddball cast of characters by her side. This includes former night court District Attorney Dan FieIding (John Larroquette), who now serves as the court’s public defender. They both must content with Olivia (India de Beaufort), the court’s officious district attorney. Donna “Gurgs” Gurganous (Lacretta) is the night court’s sharp-witted bailiff, while Wyatt, the court clerk, is a single dad and jack of all trades. From executive producer and writer Dan Rubin, “Night Court” is based on the original hit series that ran for nine seasons on NBC. Melissa Rauch and Winston Rauch executive produce through their After January Productions. Mona Garcea oversees for After January Productions and John Larroquette also serves as an executive producer. “Night Court” is produced by Rauch’s After January Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television and Universal Television, a division of Universal Studio Group. Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Three of ‘Manhunt’. To revisit the Series Premiere, click here.
One would think that a story about the hunt for John Wilkes Booth, shortly after he opted to assassinate one of history’s greatest presidents and men, would be extremely tense in nature. For a manhunt, of that caliber, especially what could be considered to be the first real major manhunt in United States history, would have to be intense and focused. But that is why the Apple TV+ series, Manhunt is quite the incredible surprise. For while it is indeed about the search for Booth and features tense moments for certain… it is a series that offers us so much more than just thrills and chills. For it is a series that is deeply grounded in the history of a critical moment in our nation’s history. One where we did indeed teeter upon a dark path while the manhunt took place, as evidenced by this week’s episode. For ‘Let the Sheep Flee’ spent a fair chunk of time with John Wilkes Booth on the road, and with some of his sympathizers as well. Giving rise to a fascinating lesson in how much support the Confederacy still had in those early days after the Civil War came to a close. Which is knowledge we can safely assume, was hereto forth unknown to us, since all we were taught was the war was the end, Booth was served justice and America grew into the superpower it is now. But this episode really did dive into the fact that there were Confederate Agents everywhere in the landscape of a healing nation, and that they were eager to help Booth get to where he needed to go. Because in their eyes, and the eyes of other sympathizers, he was a hero, he was the man that gave rise to a second chance to perhaps put right what the War robbed so many Southern Gentlemen of, and that was scary to learn. Not to mention it was equally as scary to learn how easily Booth continued to evade capture, and how there was a plan to fake his death to get him off of the radar of law enforcement. Since an old friend did him a solid on such matters in Canada. However, while that was fascinating to learn about, it paled in compassion to the underlying commentary and observation regarding why perhaps… we still have great divides in Modern America, hundreds of years after the war. All of which seemingly stems from a lack of accountability in this era. For it was made clear that while Stanton wanted both President Lincoln and President Johnson to send a message of accountability to those who crossed the line, their desire to have peace over all things likely allowed for issues to take root in America. Such as the wanton racism that still exists since a racially motivated murder in this episode was quickly overlooked, as was justice for those who helped the South rise to a level of prominence that would allow for war. Which seemingly has given those men a sense of invincibility and joy, since now they can operate without impunity in the United States and keep a spirit alive. All of which brought forth one fascinating tale. One that truly made it clear how much it easier it was to run from the law back in the day, alongside some powerful commentary on America’s mistakes and deep-rooted tolerance for the wrong things. But commentary aside, this was still a tense tale at times, one that captivated as well. Because the clock is ticking and a madman is on the loose, and truly… it will be interesting to see what twists and turns await us as America works to serve justice to a man that robbed a beloved president of his future. Until next time. Watch ‘Manhunt’
Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Two of ‘Apples Never Fall’. To revisit the Series Premiere, click here.
There is a great danger that exists for stories that are eager to simultaneously solve a mystery and explore the people surrounding that mystery. In that, the story can quickly lose sight of the need for balance on such matters. Which in turn could bring forth a story that immediately dives into the mystery, which removes meaning and depth since the characters become one-dimensional in nature. Or you get a story that is, so laser focused on the characters the mystery is thus forgotten. Which is why audiences often approach these shows with trepidation because those paths are indeed commonplace, and it was likely an initial concern for those that tuned into the Peacock limited series, Apples Never Fall. But thankfully, it doesn’t take long for the second episode of this series to make it clear… that balance is where it will thrive. For ‘Logan’ really did offer us just enough regarding the mystery, all while making sure to help us to get to know the Delaney family better and that brought forth one compelling tale. One that made it clear, that the Delaney kids, genuinely have a troubled relationship with their father. Which was deeply expressed through Logan in this tale. Because it was pointed out to him often that he was constantly lost between two worlds when it came to his father. Wherein he would staunchly defend him because that’s one does regarding a father, yet also lament him because of the abuse he imparted, and he was so back and forth in this matter, that he tossed love aside to preserve hope that perhaps dad would step up and be wondrous. Which truly did offer up amazing insight into Logan’s psyche and life. But of course, that was extended to everyone. For we saw hints regarding how a rough relationship with their dad has helped to shape the others. Such as how Amy is a tad free spirited as what is likely a result of her father demanding structure and perfection, and how Brooke tends to lean toward toxic relationship issues because of the toxic nature of her parent’s relationships, and how Troy basically turned out to be his dad in some respects, at least emotionally. And all of this was explored, as the search continued for Joy, with the help of the police even. Because the thought was that Savannah had to be back in the fold, even when mom’s busted bike showed up. And flashbacks spoke to an unhealthy pairing between the two of them, so all signs pointed there. Until they didn’t. For Savannah was nowhere to be found, and old haunts proved useless and well… that meant the family had to seriously turn toward the possibility that dear old dad might be involved and what’s scary… is that there were signs that might be the case. Because Stan was extra spicy in this episode, to the point where he began to exert fury over others since he hurt a fellow tennis pro in the name of revenge. Not to mention, the siblings came to learn that mom was interested in getting a divorce from Stan. To the point where she had indeed consulted a lawyer about such matters, and that… combined with Stan’s behavior throughout the episode and during that very disconcerting ending, has signs pointing toward him being responsible for Joy going missing. Which of course, deepens the mystery. But before we conjecture further on who might have caused harm to Joy, we can celebrate a story that was perfectly grounded in balance. Because we really did learn a great deal about the family and what makes them each tick, personally, here, all while the story grew the mystery of the missing Joy Delaney. Giving rise to some troubling questions for certain, the kind that outright compels us to continue this fascinating journey. For this really is a dramatic mystery, one that is likely going to continue to ponder deeply on dysfunctional family life and its impact upon us in adulthood, as the mystery surrounding Joy unravels and that is going to make for some compelling television as this incredible series marches on. Until next time. Watch ‘Apples Never Fall’
Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 306 of ‘Resident Alien’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
When we last settled in to discuss the wondrous SYFY series, Resident Alien, we talked at length about how the show was taking Harry, and the audience into fascinating storytelling territory. All by having Harry fall in love with Heather (Feather). Since she was clearly his first major love and vice versa and well… that was designed to explore, how that always brings forth disaster. Courtesy of actions that are toxic, hurtful, and of course, their love was barreling toward an ugly end and likely a breakup for the ages. The kind that would devastate and shatter Harry in a concerning manner because that’s how that first hard breakup goes and well… it didn’t take long for that to be showcased in this week’s tale. For ‘Bye Bye Birdie’ saw Heather take a moment to steal Harry’s DNA via cleaning his gills, and once she was done… she flew the coop. Which of course, Harry didn’t catch onto at first, but through a hilarious sequence involving a carrier pigeon and a return visit from his love, Harry got the message. She was done with him, and he was alone again and just like that… he sunk and sunk fast. Because that’s what happens when we lose that first, toxic love. We think the world is going to end, we think our heart will never recover and well… we will stay in that state for a long time when love number one is all done. Unless of course, we get some solid support to help us see how this love was nothing more than a learning experience, and Harry had that here. Because Asta and D’Arcy were indeed there to try and support him, which in turn led to more hilarious sequences. Mainly because Harry was indeed caught in that teenage mentality here and stomped about akin to one. But that didn’t stop his friends from trying their best to help him find a peace in this and get back to what was important. Which in this instance, was saving all of humanity from the Greys evil plan, and this duo were so concerned, they even reached out to the General. Who offered up a Bird of the Night for Harry to find calm around, and well… their best efforts didn’t work at first, and that meant… they needed more to show Harry how this love wasn’t worth fretting over.
While they searched for that, some positive things were happening around town. Wherein Mike was forced to face some truths about his own behavior in love and where Kate finally stepped up to the plate and worked to understand her abduction. Not to mention, Liv finally found agency in this story with Mike’s support. Since she taught her Nana quite the lesson in humility via a foul-mouthed tirade that ended with a heart attack for Nana. But while scary, all of this was lovely to see because growth is the name of the game on this show, and it would also seem we are at the bare beginnings of growth for Asta and D’Arcy’s friendship as well. Because these Best Friends For Life grated often in this story and fought, and while that likely won’t last… it’s clear this laid down the foundation for growth for them as they face some hard truths about themselves and their BFFLship.
But while it was lovely to see those moments play out and see growth take place, eventually… what Asta and D’Arcy needed to help Harry arrived. For Judy was able to capture the moment when Heather handed over the DNA to Joseph, giving rise to proof that Heather did indeed make a choice to hurt and did not value Harry in the manner that he hoped she did. Which was precisely what Harry needed in that moment. And while that didn’t heal his wounds or bring him joy, truth was enough to get him off the mountain he was sulking upon and get back to life and get back to work, and this could not have come at a better moment. Since clearly, the Greys are ready to clone Harry and use his DNA to use his own toys against us and of course… that tiny threat that’s growing, is on its way to deal with daddy. But while we wait to see what comes out of those revelations, we can celebrate one amazing tale. One that completed a journey into the world of our first and most toxic love, and how the end of it has a great impact upon us and truly screws with us. But not to make fun of it, or us for going through it… but to point out that’s part of being human. Part of growing as a person, because we learn a lot from that crappy first love, about love, about ourselves and we are better for going through it. Which means a new Harry should emerge from the maelstrom, and this episode deserves a round of applause for exploring this in such an accurate and hilarious manner. Because once again, the laughs came fast and furious here and Alan Tudyk shined again, and it really will be joyous to see a resurgent Harry move forward in life and handle the big challenges ahead in a more mature manner. Until next time. Watch ‘Resident Alien’
Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Twelve of ‘Extended Family’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
Over the course of the past couple of months, we’ve talked at length about the struggles that blended families face, and how best to overcome them, courtesy of the amazing NBC series, Extended Family. For this series has served as the guide to blended family life, and explored in great detail the many challenges multiple parents will face in raising their kids and getting along and navigating life’s challenges along the way, and that’s brought forth some revolutionary storytelling. The kind that continues to go to new places every single week to keep things interesting, and this week’s episode is no exception to that truth. Because ‘The Consequences of Being Irish’ took the time to move the family forward by pondering upon how the new member of the family truly becomes part of the unit and what comes next when that happens, and it explored such matters by having Jim do something that every parent must do in life… teach their children about their heritage. Which for the Kearney family, involved a grandiose lesson on their Irish heritage, and what it actually meant for them to be Irish and well, Jim’s passion in having the kids understand their origins and their lineage, prompted Trey to lean on Jim for something big. After all, being the owner of the Boston Celtics meant that respect had to be paid to Irish culture during March and well, since Jim knew his stuff and harbored hard convictions in expressing it right, this duo quickly came to an understanding that Jim could do right by the Celtics and offer education regarding Irish culture during a gala that Trey was hosting to celebrate the club. Which at first, looked to be steeped in disaster. Because Jim showed the folks in attendance, everything about Irish history via virtual reality. Even the scary, ugly stuff. Which brought about a panic and the potential disaster in question. But it turned out that it was the right decision and really offered up incredible education to the crowd. To the point where money was injected into the club and what Jim started. All of which spoke to the importance of being honest about the past and showcasing the truth about it often. So, people can really understand how far we’ve come and how far we need to go. But that lesson aside, make no mistake about it… Jim and Trey saw one another in a different light in this tale… as family. Complete with seamless thinking and movement and flow, and well, their actions here and the suddenness of this shift, spoke to how, there will come a day when a common ground is found. One that both believe in and bond over and when that happens, an extended family just becomes a family, and that will occur quickly because of the importance of the big moment that serves as the catalyst, and what follows is wonder. Because now, everyone will work together and offer help in a seamless manner that inspires and offers a sense of real safety. Because now everyone has everyone’s back, and no one is a stranger and that made for another delightful and amazing tale from this series. One that truly did offer up another important lesson about blended family life, and a special one at that. Since now we know, eventually the road bumps go away, and synergy comes into play, provided we follow the other lessons present here, and well… this sense of peace could not have come at a better time. For the season one finale of the show awaits, and that synergy could be used to help wrap up one chapter in this family’s story, to prepare for the next one. Until next time. Watch ‘Extended Family’
Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 212 of ‘Night Court’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
One particular lesson we are taught often about love, is that we should never change who we are for a person that has come into our lives. Because we must always be true to ourselves and love ourselves first, and that person should in fact, find value in who we are and compliment us instead of complete us. To which there is a lot of merit to that line of thinking. Because to make drastic changes to who we are for love isn’t healthy and cedes control of our own destiny to someone… who may truly not appreciate us for who we actually are… and may not stick around. But while that has merit, it isn’t entirely how we should approach true love. Because sometimes… there are quirks and proclivities about us, that can be grating and intimidating and keeping those around can in fact, put a wedge between someone we care for dearly. So, letting those go, or lessening their impact can do a lot for our love and really show our person how much we want to connect with them and help them feel seen, and well… the importance of that and the process to get there, was put on display during this week’s episode of Night Court on NBC. A feat that ‘The Duke’s a Hazard’ accomplished by having Alistair, Gurgs’ beloved Duke, roll into New York City and meet her courthouse cohorts and well… while there was obvious chemistry between the two, Gurgs had some concerns. Specifically, that her Dukey Dukeums, made too much of a show of everything, and made every intimate moment big and epic and out of place. When all she wanted now and again, were normal, intimate, moments and that put her in a tough place, where she didn’t know how to ask her sweetheart how to take part in such a change. Which brought Abby to her rescue, who carefully taught the Duke about the importance of those changes and how to do them. Which led to some outright hilarity of course, since this bougie man didn’t understand ‘normal’ all that well and had some tantrums because of it. But it was all for Gurgs. To make her feel special and wanted on a more intimate level, so Alistair stuck with it all, learned it all and showed Gurgs how much she mattered to him and how much he wanted this to work. Which beautifully hammered home the lesson at hand and spoke to how relationships are work and require extra effort all around to really keep all parties happy. However, while that was quite the endearing storyline, make no mistake about it… the comedy and zaniness this show is known for was present here as well. In large part because of Rhys Darby, who played Alistair and brought zest and zeal to the role as only he can, in fact… the subway scene will absolutely go down as one of the funniest of the season thanks to Rhys’ work in that moment. And of course, we’d be foolish to not discuss the other storyline present in this tale. For while Abby helped teach a Duke about real love, Dan was dealing with a long-standing family feud with Alistair’s valet. Because Duncan’s family had beef with Dan’s family back in the day, and that brought forth a lot of sass and a duel of the ages. Specifically, a good old-fashioned valet-off. Wherein, honor would be determined by the lack of mistakes made in serving royalty. Which Dan won handily because he crosses the right lines at the right times, and this was just an amazing storyline, one that let guest star Dave Foley (Duncan) and John Larroquette shine by letting both of them lean into their comedy roots. All of which brought about, another amazing episode of this show. For this was fun, funny, and just a treat to watch through and through and it ended in a lovely manner for certain and has us eager to see, what fun surprises await us when next week’s season two finale arrives. Until then. To learn more about the cast’s experiences in creating ‘Night Court’, check out our interviews with Nyambi Nyambi (Wyatt) and Rhys Darby (Alistair). Watch ‘Night Court’
|
Archives
October 2024
|