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’
0 Comments
Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Penultimate Episode of ‘Constellation’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
If there is one particular scientific concept that ignites our imagination in ways we never thought possible, it would have to be the multiverse. Because the thought that there are endless worlds out there where unique iterations of us exist, really is something quite powerful and mind blowing and yes, our brains do indeed ponder upon the endless possibilities. Where perhaps we are some kind of a hero on another world, or the celebrity we dreamed of when we were younger or where perhaps… we are happily in our dream job and thriving because we always knew we would be good at it. Which makes the concept fun, and it is so unique in nature that it is beginning to become more mainstream in science fiction storytelling. But what we rarely think about when it comes to the multiverse, is the sheer fact that for every amazing life we could lead in other worlds, there would be other versions of us that suffer. That might have fallen down upon hard and scary times or found their way into addiction or are struggling with the choices we’ve made. Wherein perhaps, they could be pondering upon just living our lives, giving rise to all kinds of wild paradoxes in our minds and in the concept and that’s why this week’s episode of Constellation on Apple TV+ is so important to this growing subgenre of science fiction storytelling. For ‘Through the Looking Glass’ takes the time to remind us that perhaps the grass isn’t always greener on the other side, and that a voyage through the multiverse could potentially be devastating to our mental health. Especially when we come to realize we don’t belong. As evidenced by what happened to Jo in this tale. For in this story, she finally came to understand that in another life, in another world, her fate was that of Paul’s and that left her stunned and helped her to realize that she was indeed in the wrong place and surrounded by nothing that she could connect with, including this iteration of Alice.
Which prompted her to have an honest talk with her ‘alternate’ Alice and ponder upon how best to find Jo’s real world and other life, which in turn brought forth a fascinating push in the cold. Where Alice’s from two worlds faced trouble, one another and the truth about the multiverse and their alternate lives. Giving rise to a fascinating ‘what if?’ style of story, where the show explored in great detail, what we might do in this instance and how devastating the truth about a multiverse could be when we realize how radical our lives could be elsewhere. Which made for a powerful tale, one that truthfully spoke to a concept that we rarely see stories in this vein speak to.
In that, while it sounds cool to go to another world and see our faces on a billboard for a movie, our world is where we belong. Because it is here that we have ties, have family, people that love us in some capacity, and to deny ourselves all of that, would be a crime. One that would leave us beside ourselves and in a tough place. Which makes this episode, quite philosophical in nature as well, since those are elements that speak to what matters most in life (in any universe) and what we should really be fighting for at all costs. All wrapped about in one trippy and magnificent story that kept us captivated with every surprise involving two worlds fighting to keep hold of family. But of course, this episode kept balance regarding such concepts in play by having the Caldera boys switch places at an inopportune moment, giving rise to a reminder of how hard it is to appreciate the life we have when the going gets rough, and well… all of these elements made for one brilliant episode. One that set the stage for resolution regarding what comes next for Jo’s voyage through the multiverse, after giving us so much to ponder upon regarding a concept we only see as fun and aloof. Since this episode is proof positive that multiverse stories can be dramatic, powerful, and emotional, and less fantastical, and it will be interesting to see how that truth will be applied to the end of the journey during next week’s finale. Until next time. Watch ‘Constellation’
Written by John Edward Betancourt When we think of premieres for television shows, we think of an epic red-carpet event. Where everyone is dressed in formal wear and eager to stop and pose for photos to celebrate the arrival of an amazing new series. In fact, this is so commonplace, we almost expect it at this point. But the fact of the matter is, not every premiere has to follow those traditional rules. They can celebrate the show or film in question in a unique and engaging manner that flat out fits what is about to hit the airwaves or the silver screen and for proof, look no further than how José Andrés handled the arrival of his new show. For last night, he hosted a unique dinner party to celebrate the release of Dinner Party Diaries with José Andrés on Prime Video. Wherein delicious bites, and cocktails and discussions abound took place and well, that’s quite the refreshing way to celebrate a new show/special. Since it truly allowed for everyone to really immerse themselves in what the special, which is out now on Prime Video, is all about and well… to give you an idea of how much of a delight this unique celebration was, here are some photos and a summary of the evening’s events, courtesy of Prime Video. 'Last night, renowned chef José Andrés welcomed guests to an exclusive experience at his New York restaurant, Zaytinya at The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad to celebrate the launch of the new Prime Video show Dinner Party Diaries with José Andrés and his new cookbook ZAYTINYA: Delicious Mediterranean Dishes from Greece, Turkey, and Lebanon. Party attendees were greeted with tasty bites, custom cocktails, and a herb-garden wall photo booth at the cocktail launch party. In the fun & vibrant new half-hour special, Andrés invites friends Jamie Lee Curtis, Bryan Cranston, and O’Shea Jackson Jr., over for food and conversation. The special celebrates the joy of cooking together and how food is a source of hope, inspired by Andrés’ work with the non-profit he founded in 2010, World Central Kitchen. The lively & playful energy José and his celebrity guests exuded in the special was emulated in the room as Andrés encouraged guests to come grab a drink with friends and strangers alike, cultivating deep connections and conversations over cocktails, passed hors d’oeuvres and small plates. Partygoers enjoyed some of Zaytinya’s signature Mediterranean bites featured in Andres’ cookbook and sipped on specialty cocktails, made with Cranston’s Dos Hombres Mezcal. Attendees included Keegan-Michael Key, David Rockwell, Doug Liman, Jane Krakowski, Ana Navarro-Cárdenas and Ubah Hassan. Coinciding with the debut of the special, Andrés has simultaneously released his newest cookbook, ZAYTINYA: Delicious Mediterranean Dishes from Greece, Turkey, and Lebanon today, Tuesday, March 19th. About the Special: James Beard award-winning dynamo, culinary trailblazer and revered philanthropist José Andrés is coming to the small screen in a way you’ve never seen before. In this funny, vibrant, and unpredictable special, Andrés invites Jamie Lee Curtis, Bryan Cranston and O’Shea Jackson Jr., over for food and conversation. His guests join him in the kitchen, getting their hands dirty with approachable Spanish-influenced recipes, and laughing through the stories that inspire them. Andrés cultivates deep connections with his celebrity guests through hilarious and poignant conversations that reflect his authentic relationships. Unlike most instructional food specials, Andrés embraces imperfection and spontaneity in the kitchen, giving viewers important takeaways to apply in their own homes. Dinner Party Diaries with José Andrés is executive produced by José Andrés, Richard Wolffe, Matthew Goldberg, Ellen Rocamora, Max Wagner, Ryan Schiavo, and Michael Antinoro. Dinner Party Diaries with José Andrés is from Amazon MGM Studios. The special celebrates the joy of cooking together and how food is a source of hope, inspired by Andrés’ work with the non-profit he founded in 2010, World Central Kitchen. About José Andrés: Twice named one of Time Magazine’s “100 Most Influential People” and awarded “Outstanding Chef” and “Humanitarian of the Year” by the James Beard Foundation, José Andrés is an internationally recognized humanitarian, culinary innovator, New York Times bestselling author, educator, Emmy award-winning television personality, and owner of the award-winning José Andrés Group, which operates nearly 40 restaurants in the US and beyond. In 2010, Andrés founded World Central Kitchen, a nonprofit organization that is first to the frontlines, providing meals in response to humanitarian, climate, and community crises. Andrés’ work has earned awards and distinctions including the 2015 National Humanities Medal from President Barack Obama, the 2017 Lifetime Achievement Award from the International Association of Culinary Professionals, and the Princess of Asturias Foundation’s 2021 Concordia Prize for his humanitarian work. In 2023, Andrés founded the Global Food Institute at George Washington University in Washington DC, and he currently serves as the Co-Chair of President Biden’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition. As a naturalized citizen originally from Spain, Andrés has been a tireless advocate for immigration reform.' Please enjoy this sneak peek and synopsis of the Penultimate Episode of Constellation which debuts tomorrow (3/20/24) on Apple TV+! Episode 107: Through the Looking Glass Lost and alone in the woods, Jo desperately tries to reunite with her daughter. Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Series Finale of ‘The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart’. To revisit the show’s penultimate episode, click here. This article also contains discussion regarding domestic violence, which may be triggering to some individuals.
One particular aspect of the human condition that is genuinely fascinating is how our search to find the answer to one important question begets another important question. Because time and time again, when we seek out a big answer, it in turn prompts us to ask another big question and well… while fascinating this all makes sense. For we are beings that are curious and deep down have desire to grow, so we search and fight for answers upon answers and find them along the way and become better people for it. Which is top of mind today, simply because… that’s precisely what the series finale of The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart on Prime Video focuses upon. For ‘Part 7: Sturt’s Desert Pea’ is all about questions, answers and what we do with the knowledge we acquire. Which of course, related to Alice’s journey. For after being badly beaten by Dylan and humiliated and manipulated to save his hide and make her look like the monster here… Alice felt no recourse but to return home. For she had nothing now, and felt alone, so June and Twig dropped by to pick her up and offer more truth. For June was still hellbent on healing and doing right by people in her final days, so she revealed the truth about Charlie and well, that allowed for Alice to return to the beginning if you will. To her original hometown wherein she began to ponder upon questions and found answers that helped her to grow. Such as, what do we do when we learn that our life has been filled with trauma and pain and that has brought us down a dark path? Well… we take a moment to breathe, and heal, and process what’s happened. So, we can begin to look at our life in an objective manner and understand the habits and steps that lead us to the darkness that we think is normal, and how to leave them behind. Which Alice did here. For she stayed with Charlie and Sally, and connected with her little brother and took the time to do just that. Wherein she slowly came to learn that she needed to love herself, first, and that she wasn’t responsible for the pain that was imparted upon her. It was merely the will of others, and that she no longer had to bend to those wills. She could forge her own path, she could offer forgiveness and kindness and heal, and the first step to making that happen was a choice. Wherein she could reach out to her grandmother and offer that olive branch of peace, or answer Dylan’s calls once again since he was poking about, and she chose the former. To offer forgiveness and understanding, to start her healing journey and seize her life at last. But alas, June passed away before that could begin. Which in turn offered up another big question for Alice. In that… who then do we become when cannot find closure to our pain but are eager to heal? And well, Alice quickly came to learn… that we can be the bigger person, we can be better, and we can still heal. We merely need to hold to our plan to heal, to love us and be someone that offers forgiveness to ourselves and those who chose the wrong path. Which she did and found the beginnings of peace at last whilst also offering a message to us. One that outright informed us… that Alice’s journey, isn’t unique. It’s an everyday thing. For so many women are abused physically, and emotionally, and too many are left to heal on their own or endure worse because they don’t have a support network and because we are afraid to talk about the truth. About how men will cross that line and cause such harm. Ergo, the time has come… to believe those that speak up and punish those that harm and make this no longer acceptable. So that there are no more ‘Lost Flowers’ as June put it, and there is only healing and growth and support in this life. Because that is what we all need, akin to a flower for certain and well, this was the right way to end this series. One that was bold, brilliant, and powerful, and put forth an amazing discussion on trauma, it’s lifelong impact and how it is never too late to let it go and move forward and heal. Watch ‘The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart’
Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 306 of ‘The Madame Blanc Mysteries’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
For those of us who grew up with siblings, the phrase ‘sibling rivalry’ carries a lot of weight. Because we lived through it. For now, and again we would indeed battle with our siblings over who would and could race down the hill the fastest or who could have the cooler toys when we were at our youngest, and that might have spilled over into our teenage years. Especially if we all got into competitive sports or found opportunities to shine. But thankfully, this is something that eventually burns out in adulthood because adulthood tends to bring with it an appreciation of family and a desire for all to get along. But that’s not the case in every family. For sometimes, that rivalry continues into adulthood and the stakes get higher with the freedom that adulthood brings. To the point where the rivalry can be a bit scary in nature. In fact, sometimes it goes way too far, as evidenced by the next episode of The Madame Blanc Mysteries on Acorn TV. For ‘Kidnap’ explored how far a sibling rivalry can go, in the most unique manner of course. Because that’s how this series operates, and it surprised us with this particular concept by having Judith’s birthday celebration go to pot. For while the celebration was underway, an old friend named Nancy suddenly went missing and soon it became clear… she was kidnapped. Which of course meant that Jean was going to be on the case, especially since Nancy’s sister Delphine hadn’t a clue who might want to harm her. But Jeremy had some ideas that Jean and Dom were eager to explore and well… those leads sadly went nowhere. Instead, they merely revealed that a local gangster that was looking for love, ended up exposing a lothario in town. Who in turn ended up having his life rightfully ruined for being exposed as a cheater. Because he had a kid, and a wife that loved him. Well, no longer since we saw her toss his clothes to the curb down the line and well… the lack of solid leads left Jean beside herself. But another look at the videos that were being sent in, flagged a clue in Jean’s mind. Because the kidnapper was wearing a familiar watch, one that led Jean to uncover that there was a hidden room in the restaurant where Nancy went missing. Wherein the police found Nancy, and the waiter that served the group at the birthday party, for it was he who was wearing that watch on that fateful day. But he wasn’t working alone, because that watch was a gift from Delphine, as part of payment to kidnap and shake down her sister and her rich friends. Because Delphine was deeply jealous of the path that Nancy took and wanted a slice, no matter the cost. All of which informed us, that when sibling rivalry goes too long and goes too far, it can get dangerous and dark and harmful. Giving rise to the reality that we need to let it go if it persists, so we can enjoy the wonder of family, and not resent it. Which was definitely a heavy lesson to learn here, one that was counterbalanced by Gloria’s lovely attempts, with Charlie’s help, to get back into the dating game and find what she needs in this life. For that sequence was simply sweet through and through and helped to bring together another great episode. One that once again featured a unique case for Jean to take part in, and it does leave us wondering, what kind of unique case awaits us in the season three finale of this magnificent series. Until next time. Watch ‘The Madame Blanc Mysteries’
Written by John Edward Betancourt It really is safe to say that the highly anticipated STARZ series, The Hunting Wives, is coming together in a beautiful manner. Because not only has production started on the Rebecca Cutter-led series, but it is filled to the brim with incredible cast members, who are undoubtedly giving us their best as we ponder upon this show. But it’s also coming together nicely, because other critical roles from this iconic story are being filled out as production hums along. As evidenced by today’s announcement from STARZ. For they let it be known that, Chrissy Metz, Jamie Ray Newman, Katie Lowes, and George Ferrier will be joining the show as series regulars, and they will of course… fill important roles. Whom, you ask? Well, we’re glad you did, because STARZ was gracious enough to provide us with all the details on these cast members and who they will be bringing to life. So, without further ado, here are the details in question as we all anxiously await this magnificent adaptation of one incredible novel. ‘STARZ has confirmed that Chrissy Metz (“This Is Us,” Breakthrough), Jaime Ray Newman (“Dopesick,” “The Big Cigar” ), Katie Lowes (“Scandal,” “Inventing Anna”), and George Ferrier (“One of Us Is Lying,” “Sweet Tooth”) will join as series regulars in its upcoming drama series “The Hunting Wives,” alongside previously announced Malin Åkerman, Brittany Snow, Dermot Mulroney, and Evan Jonigkeit. Production on the thrilling new series has started in Charlotte, North Carolina. Metz will play “Starr,” who is the mother of Abby, a proud working-class woman and staunch Christian. Although she’s active at church and her daughter dates the star point guard Brad, she is not welcomed in the high-society world of the Hunting Wives. As a result, she will clash fiercely with Brad’s mother Jill. Newman will play “Callie,” who is married to the powerful Sheriff Jonny, and a powerhouse in her own right. She’s an amazing marksman, and she’s the second in command of the Hunting Wives (right below Margo). But she is also deeply in love with Margo and jealous of Sophie's newfound influence. Lowes will play “Jill,” the wife of Reverend Clint, and the queen of the mega church. But she’s trapped in a loveless marriage, and as a result, she is overly invested in her son Brad’s life. And as we will soon find out, she will do anything to protect him. Ferrier will play “Brad.” On the outside Brad is the perfect All-Texan boy – rich, handsome, and athletic with a bright future. But behind closed doors, Brad is the keeper of many secrets – including an emotionally incestuous relationship with his mother Jill, and an affair with one of his mother’s best friends. “The Hunting Wives” is based on the novel by May Cobb, which tells the story of Sophie and her family’s move from the East Coast to deep East Texas, where she succumbs to socialite Margo Bank’s irresistible charms – and finds her life consumed by obsession, seduction, and murder. “The Hunting Wives” is executive produced by Rebecca Cutter (“Hightown”), who will write and serve as showrunner, Erwin Stoff (“The Serpent Queen,” The Matrix, Edge of Tomorrow, Julia) for 3 Arts Entertainment and Cobb. The series is produced by Lionsgate Television and 3 Arts Entertainment. About STARZ STARZ (www.starz.com), a Lionsgate company, is a leading media streaming platform committed to delivering premium content that amplifies narratives by, about and for women and underrepresented audiences. STARZ is home to the highly rated and first-of-its-kind STARZ app that offers the ability to stream or download STARZ premium content, as well as the flagship domestic STARZ® service, including STARZ ENCORE, 17 premium pay TV channels, and the associated on-demand and online services. STARZ is available across digital OTT platforms and multichannel video distributors, including cable operators, satellite television providers, and telecommunications companies. In February 2021, STARZ launched #TakeTheLead, a multi-faceted and innovative inclusion initiative expanding its existing efforts to improve representation on screen, behind the camera and throughout the company. About 3 Arts Entertainment 3 Arts Entertainment is a talent/literary management and production company, with 33 years of experience. We have offices in Beverly Hills and New York and have clients in the TV and Film Lit world, acting world, hosting world, branded areas, digital media and more. 3 Arts has produced hit films such as The Matrix, Austin Powers: Thy Spy Who Shagged Me, The Devil’s Advocate, Edge of Tomorrow and 13 Hours and more. We currently executive produce over 30 shows on the air. Some of our series include: “Julia,” “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia,” “Master of None,” “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt,” “Insecure,” and “Brooklyn Nine-Nine.” About Lionsgate Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF.A, LGF.B) encompasses world-class motion picture and television studio operations aligned with the STARZ premium subscription platform to bring a unique and varied portfolio of entertainment to consumers around the world. The Company’s film, television, subscription and location-based entertainment businesses are backed by a 20,000+ title library and a valuable collection of iconic film and television franchises. A digital age company driven by its entrepreneurial culture and commitment to innovation, the Lionsgate brand is synonymous with bold, original, relatable entertainment for audiences worldwide.’ Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Six of ‘The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart’. To revisit the previous episode, click here. Also, this article features discussions regarding domestic violence, which may be triggering to some individuals.
If there is one giant question that has been hanging over the Prime Video series, The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart, it would be… who do we become in adulthood when we have suffered through a lifetime of trauma through violence? Because that is the core of Alice Hart’s journey since her life has only known those two dark elements and thankfully, the tail end of this series is taking the time to answer that fascinating question. Since the last episode informed us how those of us who carry such pain, find ways to cope and function and find necessary joy, because eventually… there will be more darkness for reasons that one will not initially understand. Which ‘Part 6: Wheel of Fire’ explored by way of two key storylines. One of which involved June, who taught us that a lifetime of carrying this pain will lead to a remorseful end when we know our time is near. Because that’s all June harbored in this tale, regret and memories of dark days gone by. The kind she expressed to Candy, which explained Clem’s origin and violent origins and the birth of her own trauma, and this reflective state left her worried about making peace before the end because she did want to give that to others. Oddly, she wasn’t the only one in a reflective place in this tale since Twig also went on a personal journey whilst searching for Alice. One that reminded us how hard life can be in general when trauma forces us to forge other paths. But while those moments were important and poignant, the real centerpiece here was Alice’s journey. Because despite having it all and enjoying a new chapter in life, the trauma returned. In this instance via a panic attack during a live, firefighting exercise at the park. Which in turn, brought ire from her man and more abuse and more horrors untold that Alice could not and seemingly would not escape from. Not because she was a fool, or weak, but because of the trauma she experienced as a child. Because Clem’s abuse, and his desire for control taught young Alice that this was normal behavior for a man, and that obedience was the key to fixing that. So, Alice held to that and indulged in it, and even called it love, to Twig no less when she asked Twig to stop searching for her. However, it was anything but. It was merely a toxic relationship. One where a broken and angry man used fear and physical pain to maintain control over a woman that found it normal and that of course… is a recipe for disaster. One where the abused must make a decision. Either follow this path and risk one’s life or enact change and well, that choice came forth for Alice in a scary manner. One where she was badly beaten, choked, and degraded by her ‘love’ and in that moment… she decided… that this path was not normal and change needed to come into her life swiftly. So, she fought back, kept Dylan at bay and did her best to just survive one last dark night. To makes changes at dawn. Which was quite the scary cliffhanger to endure, but necessary to hammer home the point. That trauma becomes normal for us, and a strange yet familiar place we hold onto, until we learn it’s the wrong place to be. And this series deserves a standing ovation for presenting that in a bold and scary manner. One that felt real and was uncomfortable as it should be, and Alycia Debnam-Carey (Alice) needs to be recognized for her stellar and powerful performance here, since she sold those lessons in a powerful manner and well, now that we know what we become when trauma hangs over us for a lifetime, there is but one question left for this story to answer. In that, can we break free and live a healthy life? And it will be fascinating to see what the series finale offers as an answer. Until next time. Watch ‘The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart’
Written by John Edward Betancourt
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 208 of ‘The Way Home’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
There are a great many reasons that fans tune into the hit Hallmark series, The Way Home. For some, it’s about the characters because the Landry family and the people around them feel real and make decisions we can relate to. For others, it’s about the plot because this is at its core, a juicy time travel story and there are those of course… who tune in for the fascinating commentary regarding grief and how we fight through it. But of the many reasons that each and every one of us tune in, there’s one above all that we share in. Specially the fact that this series always knows how to surprise us in some form or fashion, as was evidenced by this week’s episode of the show. A feat that ‘Lose Yourself’ accomplished by way of some juicy storylines. One of which, brought Kat’s emotional battle to an abrupt stop. For despite her best efforts in 1814 to help Jacob remember the life he accidentally left behind, to reconnect at last, the trauma of that moment was buried deep in his mind and all that mattered to him was his life in the past. To the point where he scolded Kat and basically sent her on her way with little closure. A move that left Kat stunned. Simply because it taught her a great deal in a short time. Such as the fact that we cannot change the fact that we will lose people along the way, sometimes to circumstances other than death, and that closure isn’t always a possibility for us and that’s a hard pill to swallow and it will be interesting to see how that truth impacts Kat down the line since none of her issues are resolved in the slightest. But there were bigger fish to fry in this episode. For instance, the friction between Kat and her mother continued to grow here, because of the fact that Kat was lost in the past and lost in her grief and that kept things icy and that brought up a lot of past emotions for Del. Because she had been here before with Kat and she thought Kat and finally moved past some of her issues. Granted, there are complexities Del knows little of, this was enough to offer up a trigger point regarding her own unresolved traumas and the past, and that was amplified by an offer from the Goodwin family to buy the farm. Because it put her in a tough place, a crossroads involving legacy and her own freedom and wants. Which in turn spoke to how the past controls us and prompts us sometimes into inaction in the name of legacy and honor when we should be worried about living in the now and forging our own legacy. Both storylines, really did bring forth surprises since we didn’t think Kat’s journey would hit such a quick wall, nor did we ever think we’d see Del actually contemplate a sale, but while those two storylines would have carried this story from beginning to end with plenty for us to chew upon, there was one more that offered up some suprises. Which is one that involved dear Alice. Who decided it was high time to go back in time and learn about what happened back at the mansion in ‘07 since that photo looked so awful, and what she learned, was that the Halloween party that took place there, was critical to her family’s development. Because this was a party where younger Kat and Elliot discussed running away together, since she had split with Brady. But he wasn’t done with her, so that led to a brawl between two suitors, one that ended with Kat in a great deal of pain. Which allowed for Alice to begin to understand what choices gave rise to her existence, along with a lesson we all should learn about our parents. In that, they are flawed people, who made mistakes and will continue to do so even in adulthood. As evidenced by the ending of this story and THAT moment between Kat and Elliot in present day. Just because… they’re people and people are flawed and foolish and do our best to get by and that was the perfect way to wrap up an episode full of twists and turns that seemed to be designed to pivot the story toward resolution of a core central theme. Specifically, facing the past and resolving it. Because it hangs so heavy over everyone in this story, and they need to find peace, and it will be interesting to see how the show moves everyone toward the process of resolution, as we inch toward the end of season two of this magnificent series. Until next time. Watch ‘The Way Home’
Written by John Edward Betancourt
One particular truth about professional wrestling that not everyone will agree with, is that it truly is a moving and emotional sport. And of course, those who dislike it, are the ones that will not like that statement. For they’ll speak to its excesses and its scripted content, and how that makes it nothing more than passive entertainment. But the arenas that are filled to the brim with legions of loyal and excited fans when the WWE and other leagues come to town, speaks otherwise to that, as does the passion of that fan base. Who will quickly inform us why it moves them, why it makes them tear up now and again, and how a lot of that relates to the stars.
Because the stars that wrestle in these leagues, sacrifice so much to entertain the masses, and sometimes struggle with their health when they leave the sport and sadly… leave this world too young. Which genuinely breaks the hearts of fans everywhere because they connect with these wrestlers like no other, and truly know that they come out there night after night to put on an amazing show and give them their money’s worth and that is why… one incredibly popular wrestler that was taken too soon, is about to be spotlighted in a new Peacock documentary entitled: Bray Wyatt: Becoming Immortal. Which will chronicle Bray’s (whose real name was Windham Rotunda) rise to fame, the impact he made upon the sport through his innovation and the sorrow that fans feel over his untimely passing and well, to properly begin to pray tribute to Windham and his work, earlier today Peacock released a trailer and some key art, and all the details regarding this documentary. So that we can prepare to celebrate his life when his story arrives on Peacock, and since you’re here because you’re a wrestling fan and a fan of Bray’s work in the ring, here are all those gifts to help you count down the days to the release of this important documentary. · Bray Wyatt: Becoming Immortal is narrated by Mark William Calaway, better known as ‘The Undertaker.’ · The documentary looks at the remarkable career of the late Windham Rotunda also known as Bray Wyatt, one of the most skillful, tenacious, and creative WWE Superstars of all-time. · Emotional and insightful interviews are featured throughout the documentary from those who knew him best, including members of his family as well as WWE Superstars Hulk Hogan, John Cena, Becky Lynch, Triple H, and his brother Taylor Rotunda. · The documentary also includes interviews with Windham Rotunda as well as never-before-seen footage from the WWE archives. · In addition to Bray Wyatt: Becoming Immortal, Peacock Premium subscribers can stream thousands of hours of on-demand programming from WWE such as original series, fan favorite shows from the WWE archives and upcoming Premium Live Events, including WWE WrestleMania XL. · To learn more about WWE on Peacock, please visit peacocktv.com/sports/WWE. ABOUT THE DOCUMENTARY: DOCUMENTARY DESCRIPTION: Bray Wyatt is one of the most revered and mysterious characters in WWE history. The story behind that character and the man himself, Windham Rotunda, has never been documented until now. Using never-before seen interviews and exclusive backstage footage, Windham Rotunda’s inspiring story unfolds. This documentary chronicles Windham’s incredible rise to worldwide fame as a WWE Superstar, and the struggles and success that came with being a creative visionary. Sadly, in August of 2023, Windham passed away at the age of 36. In the wake of his untimely death, Windham leaves behind a family still grieving with loss as they celebrate a lasting legacy that continues to create and inspire. ABOUT THE DOCUMENTARY: Premiere: April 1 Director: Steve Conoscenti Executive Producers: Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque, Lee Fitting, Chris Kaiser, and Ben Houser Co-Executive Producers: Marc Pomarico and Brian Decker Narrator: Mark ‘The Undertaker’ Calaway Produced By: WWE |
Archives
October 2024
|