Written by John Edward Betancourt HAPPY'S PLACE -- "Happy's House" Episode 106 -- Pictured: (l-r) Reba McEntire as Bobbie, Belissa Escobedo as Isabella -- (Photo by: Casey Durkin/NBC)
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 306 of ‘Happy’s Place’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
One particular aspect of shows and stories about healing that is genuinely problematic, is what they put on display regarding the healing process. Because in many ways, these tales present healing as an incredible and damn near impossible excursion. One that could be compared to scaling Mount Everest without support and that’s just awful. Because it makes it seem at times as though a healing journey will be beyond difficult and painful to go through, and while there is some merit to that… that’s just not how healing works. It is a long process yes, and it can be challenging, but it isn’t impossible to do and sometimes… there are little moments and acts we can take part in that help with the process and when you do enough of those, you make more progress than you know. For instance, just… going back to places that elicit good memories and speak to our journey can help us to heal, and that is a simple act. As is talking about what wounded us and sharing in the wonder of memories with others can be helpful, especially when grief is involved, and that’s why Happy’s Place on NBC is such an important sitcom. Because it is showcasing those very real moments. As evidenced by how last night’s episode of this magnificent series played out. For ‘Happy’s House’ saw Isabella make quite the ask of Bobbie. In that, she wanted to see her late father’s home. The very one that Bobbie grew up in, and that was tough for Bobbie to take part in. Because so many memories were within its walls. But she knew, it wouldn’t hurt to be back there and share the family’s history with her sister, so she said yes to that excursion. Which did indeed bring about, some powerful, very real moments of healing for this duo. Because while within the walls of Happy’s house, Bobbie was able to share fond memories of growing up and what her relationship with her father was like, and how he went the extra mile for her. Which also, drew up some sadness. Simply because such musings made it seem as though daddy never cared about his other daughter and that made Bobbie wonder if she was seeing her dad in the wrong light. But thankfully, it was discovered, with Gabby and Takoda’s help, since they stopped by to fix the house and search for a mysterious penny… that Happy did in fact, give attention to his other child. Since he attended her graduation and that brought peace to Isabella and neatly wrapped up the lesson. Because throughout this whole journey, we saw Bobbie reflect upon the past, upon her daddy and the many charming moments they shared together, and that helped. As did coming to learn that Isabella wasn’t forgotten. For that reinforced he was the man she thought he was, but more importantly, reflecting on the person they were, thinking about the wonder they brought into our life… that heals. For it reminds us of the wonderful impact that person had upon us and how they made us better, made us more and made us into a special person. And we carry those memories always, and we honor them by thinking about them and being the person, they knew us to be. Granted, that doesn’t fix it all, because they’re still gone and that void is still there, but the good stuff helps, and the good stuff eventually replaces the ache and that is why… those little moments are just as important to healing and make it less complex a process than we think. All of which made, for a wonderfully beautiful episode for certain. One that offered the audience so much. Since we learned a ton about Bobbie and saw Isabella find joy through her father’s surprise actions, and we were even treated to some amazing comedy. Since Gabby’s search for that penny was legendary sitcom stuff and of course, we have to talk about Emmett and Steve’s journey here. Since their newfound bromance and bonding over football speaks to how communication is paramount to making new friends and bonding with people, because you never know what you share in common until you say something and well… this really is the show’s finest episode to date. Because it had it all. Beauty, depth, fine lessons and fine laughs and it does leave us eager to see what other wonderful moments of healing await us, as season one continues along. Until next time. Watch ‘Happy’s Place’
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Written by John Edward Betancourt LOPEZ VS LOPEZ -- "Lopez vs Orlando" Episode 306 -- Pictured: (l-r) Adam Irigoyen as Orlando, Selenis Leyva as Rosie, Mayan Lopez as Mayan -- (Photo by: Nicole Weingart/NBC)
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 306 of ‘Lopez vs Lopez’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
While Latin culture as a whole is filled with incredible beauty, and rich traditions that are worth exploring and practicing, there are some ugly sides to the culture that are not explored all that often. Granted, this can be said of many cultures in our world, but for the sake of today’s discussion, it is important to discuss the fact… that Latin culture is filled with misogyny. For truly, the men are the focus in this culture, and that promotes toxic behavior and true gender inequality that has gone on for generations on end and is only now becoming a subject of discussion because so many are starting to understand that it needs to change. But how then, does something that has been expected for generations on end find change? Well, it just so happens that the next episode of Lopez vs Lopez on NBC, took the time to answer that question in a powerful manner. A feat that ‘Lopez vs Orlando’ accomplished by putting this toxic aspect of Latin culture on display, in part through Mayan’s cousin, Orlando. Who… was a great big man child. Yes, he was grown, and yes, he was capable of living his own life. But years of entitlement and spoiling from his mother and even his Tia Rosie, prompted him to make others in his life work for him and wait upon him and foot. Especially women. Which Mayan was not good with, and she wanted to see that change, and she wasn’t the only one who was dealing with the toxic nature of Latin Culture. For Chance was also getting a good taste of it. Since he came along with George to see how grandpa’s workday goes, and while there, he saw George rip into Momo and Oscar and treat them like dirt and use anger to get stuff done. Because disparaging talk, insults and a general sour vibe is part that machismo aspect of the culture and well, both of these journeys collided to bring forth the complex answer to that all-important question. Part of which involves, showcasing what kind of impact toxic masculinity in this manner has upon others, especially children. Since it can teach them it’s okay to act this way and talk down to people, and if we stopped it right there… we could easily alter course and send young boys down a different path. Which George recognized when he saw the always sweet Chance mimicking that behavior with some classmates. That of course, prompted George to stop his own toxic behavior and teach Chance how he made a mistake he needed to correct and while that helped us to understand how to stop future generations from picking up this ugly mantle, Mayan found a way to get someone who grew up with it their whole life, to reject it. Which she accomplished by exposing Orlando to Rosie. In fact, she got him to admit how he would go the extra mile to make others work and manipulate them into waiting on him in a manner where they were akin to servants. Which shocked Rosie to no end but showing people the light is sometimes the only option we have to stop something awful in its tracks, and while that did hurt Rosie for a bit, she eventually understood what Mayan was trying to accomplish and agreed to change her ways and end the cycle of nonsense. All of which made, for a brilliant story when all is said and done, and a bold one at that. Because we don’t as a society speak all that much to the nature of toxic culture in our world or how to stop it, and it is most certainly not talked about often, if ever, in Latinx homes. Because that’s just ‘the way of things’ and it is accepted when it should not be. For its 2024, and it is a new era of change, regardless of what some may say or believe, and it was just refreshing… to see this show tackle something that is taboo in Latin culture and in the everyday world, in a perfect manner no less. For it offered respectful and direct answers that can indeed impact change, and that continues to reinforce why this show is so special and why it deserves all the praise it can get. For it really is revolutionary in its storytelling, and this level of intelligence leaves us hungry for more of this show, and it’s amazing observations about our world. Until next time. Watch ‘Lopez vs Lopez’
Written by John Edward Betancourt Caitríona Balfe and Sam Heughan as Claire Fraser and Jamie Fraser in Episode 709 of ‘Outlander’ – ‘Unfinished Business’. (Photo Courtesy of STARZ.)
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 709 of ‘Outlander’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
One particular phrase we hear often in this life, and rightfully so, is how one cannot go home again. And we hear it often because so many of us wish to recreate the past and go back to simpler times that bring us joy and bring us wonder. But truly, we can’t go back there. For yesterday is yesterday and every single time we hear that phrase it is because we have yet to embrace the lesson, embrace the moment and embrace tomorrow. For that is what lie ahead. If anything, the importance of this lesson is top of mind today, simply because the next episode of Outlander on STARZ took the time to explore… the importance of that lesson and what happens when we finally embrace it. A feat that ‘Unfinished Business’ accomplished by returning the Fraser family to Lallybroch at last. Which brought forth, warm reunions and joy, and a sense of belonging for everyone once again. For there is some majesty when we reunite with family, the kind that reminds us of the ties that bind us and fulfill us. But of course, it did not take long to dive into the lesson, and Young Ian was the one who handled why we hear it so often. Since he was filled with remorse and sorrow over how things could never be the same here because of what’s been lost, and how perhaps he owed a penance by remaining home. Which was a fine reminder of the torture that we put ourselves through when we expect the past to come to life, and thankfully, his journey served as the springboard for the positive lesson at hand. Simply because, there was so much wonder to be found here, and so much truth about how time marches on and changes everything for us. Especially when one considers that Ian Senior was quite ill with consumption. A revelation that shattered everyone’s understanding of what this homecoming was to accomplish, and it quickly inspired Jamie and Claire, to understand there would be no ‘going home’ here, just going forward and that prompted them to work to resolve the past to prepare for tomorrow. Which for Jamie, involving visiting a former wife and doing his best to make amends for his mistakes so that everyone could move forward and find peace. Which also involved all kinds of contracts and the dissolvement of old agreements; to make everyone free and it was refreshing to see Jamie embrace the lesson and truly inspire others to do so in the process.  Richard Rankin as Roger MacKenzie in Episode 709 of ‘Outlander’ – ‘Unfinished Business’. (Photo Courtesy of STARZ.)
Since Claire realized that the only way forward beyond this moment was to be honest about everything really. Because she has for ages hidden the truth about her origins in this land and that prompted her to use her knowledge for good and save lives and oddly, hammer home the helpless nature of fate. Since there were pleas to cure Ian Senior with means that had yet to be invented. Yet, that understanding that time claims us all and that we spend too much time thinking about yesterday and hanging onto the past… through the impending doom of Ian Senior, prompted so many to push Young Ian to forget about his troubles, and live for the moment. By going back to America, with Claire no less, who was called upon… to aid an ailing friend, so that Young Ian could live, and love and forge that future he was trying to deny himself.
But of course, since this show always explores more than its central theme, it made sure to catch up with Roger and his journey to find his son and that went into some wild territory. Since there were no clues on the other side of the time jump, and he managed to go farther back in time than expected. To the point where Jamie was off to university, allowing for him to spend time with long gone family members and his thoughts. Mainly because he felt lost here and unsure of what comes next since truly, there was nothing to go off of and there was the real possibility that he was in the wrong era, period, and his baby boy was roaming about elsewhere in time. Setting the stage for a harrowing journey down the line. However, while we wait to see what comes of that, we can celebrate, one fascinating tale. One that truly offered up an important lesson we can all take something from, and it was likely designed… to move this show into its final chapter as well. For we are indeed inching toward the end, so what better way to prepare our heroes for their farewell journey than by having them confront the past and grow before our eyes. For then they are ready for whatever final challenges lie ahead. But even if that is not the case, growth is wonderful to see on screen, and it was powerful to see everyone embrace the future and the moment and come what may, and it will indeed be interesting to see what other lessons lie ahead as season seven of this magnificent show continues along. Until next time. Watch ‘Outlander’
Written by John Edward Betancourt  THE DAY OF THE JACKAL -- Pictured: "The Day of the Jackal" Key Art -- (Photo by: Peacock) It’s been quite the week for the creative team behind the new Peacock series, The Day of the Jackal. For not only has the show receive incredible critical acclaim (read our review, here), but people have been tuning in and buzzing about the show’s amazing acting, incredible action and downright engaging story. In fact, people have been so excited to watch the first six episodes of the show that it should come as no surprise that Peacock offered up some amazing new about the future of the series.
In that, The Day of the Jackal is going to receive a second season. Allowing for this incredible story to expand even further, and that really is wonderful news to say the least. Because truly, this show is downright phenomenal and captivates us in ways that action stories don’t always do, and to properly celebrate this wondrous announcement, here are all the details on the show’s season two renewal, courtesy of Peacock. See the Renewal Announcement Video: HERE.
ABOUT THE DAY OF THE JACKAL SEASON ONE: Synopsis: An unrivaled and highly elusive lone assassin, the Jackal (Eddie Redmayne), makes his living carrying out hits for the highest fee. But following his latest kill, he meets his match in a tenacious British intelligence officer (Lashana Lynch) who starts to track down the Jackal in a thrilling cat-and-mouse chase across Europe, leaving destruction in its wake. Cast: Eddie Redmayne, Lashana Lynch, Úrsula Corberó, Charles Dance, Richard Dormer, Chukwudi Iwuji, Lia Williams, Khalid Abdalla, Eleanor Matsuura, Jonjo O’Neill, Sule Rimi Executive Producers: Gareth Neame and Nigel Marchant (Carnival Films), Sam Hoyle (Sky Studios), Sue Naegle, Ronan Bennett, Brian Kirk, Eddie Redmayne Co-Executive Producers: Marianne Buckland, Lashana Lynch Writer: Ronan Bennett Directors: Brian Kirk (101-103), Anthony Philipson (104-105), Paul Wilmshurst (106-108), Anu Menon (109-110) Production Company: Carnival Films Studio: Universal International Studios, a division of Universal Studio Group Format: Drama, 10 Ep x 60 Min Written by John Edward Betancourt  Key Art for ‘The Couple Next Door’ Courtesy of STARZ. It is definitely safe to say that television fans everywhere have been eagerly awaiting more news regarding the upcoming STARZ series, The Couple Next Door. Simply because it boasts an amazing cast and a fascinating story. One that promises to explore some dark corners of the human condition, and that always fascinates and well… STARZ is well aware of what the fans want and that is why this week they were kind enough to offer up quite the surprise for all. In that, they took the time to release a new trailer for the show, updated details, and key art and the premiere date for this series. All so we can enjoy another sampling of what this show has to offer and to prepare ourselves for the powerful journey that lie ahead. One that begins on January 17, 2025, and since you’re here because you must know more… here are those gifts for you to enjoy, courtesy of STARZ. ‘STARZ has announced a January 17 premiere date for the six-part psychological drama, “The Couple Next Door,” following the season seven finale of “Outlander,” and released the key art and trailer for the deliciously dark new thriller. The series, starring Sam Heughan (“Outlander,” “Suspect”), Eleanor Tomlinson (“The Outlaws,” “Poldark”), Jessica De Gouw (“Pennyworth,” Our Man from Jersey) and Alfred Enoch (Tigers, “How to Get Away with Murder”) will be available to stream weekly on Fridays on the STARZ app, all STARZ streaming and on-demand platforms. The grass isn’t always greener in this seemingly idyllic neighborhood where danger lurks behind twitching curtains and secret fantasies and desires don’t stay hidden for long. “The Couple Next Door” explores the claustrophobia of suburbia and the fallout of chasing your deepest desires. When Evie (Tomlinson) and Pete (Enoch) move into the upscale neighborhood with the dream of starting a family, they soon find friendship in the shape of the couple next door, alpha traffic cop Danny (Heughan) and his wife, glamorous yoga instructor Becka (De Gouw). As time goes on, these two couples get increasingly close to each other and one fateful night, become sexually entangled in a way that will change their lives forever. The new trailer shows an innocent Evie and Pete being welcomed to their new neighborhood where it seems someone is always watching behind the curtains. A curious Evie asks questions about Danny and Becka’s open relationship confessing, “we always want what we don’t have” while Danny warns “it could be dangerous.” The key art emphasizes the entangled and complicated relationship dynamics between the foursome. “The Couple Next Door” will also air weekly on the STARZ linear platform on Fridays at 9:00 pm ET/PT in the U.S. and Canada. It previously aired on Channel 4 in the UK. Directed by Dries Vos (“Suspect,” “Professor T”) and written by David Allison (Marcella, “Bedlam”), the six-part series is an addictive, emotional roller coaster and looks at how we never know what goes on behind closed doors. Jo McGrath, Walter Iuzzolino, Alison Kee and Dries Vos serve as executive producers and the producer is Jennifer Burnet. The series is produced by Eagle Eye Drama and distributed worldwide by Beta Film. THE COUPLE NEXT DOOR ON SOCIAL: Instagram: @STARZ Facebook: STARZ TikTok: @STARZ Join the conversation with #TheCoupleNextDoor and #STARZ About STARZ STARZ (www.starz.com), a Lionsgate company, is a leading global 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. In 2018, STARZ launched its international premium streaming platform STARZPLAY, now LIONSGATE+, to provide subscribers access to bold, curated storytelling. LIONSGATE+, coupled with the STARZPLAY ARABIA joint venture in MENA and Lionsgate Play in South and Southeast Asia, has a footprint that extends across the globe. STARZ and LIONSGATE+ are available across digital OTT platforms and multichannel video distributors, including cable operators, satellite television providers, and telecommunications companies around the world. In February 2021, STARZ launched #TakeTheLead, a multi-faceted and innovative inclusion initiative expanding its existing efforts to improve representation on screen, behind the camera and throughout the company.’ Written by John Edward Betancourt Still from ‘Ronja, the Robber’s Daughter’ Courtesy of Viaplay.
There was a time when fantasy stories ruled the day. For everywhere you turned there were stories about the fantastical. The kind that featured dragons, wizards and magics that ignited something special within all of us. For they reminded us of simpler times and days when we believed that the fantastical could be real. But alas, despite the wonder these stories provided, they faded from the marketplace in just about every way imaginable. Replaced instead by young adult stories about dystopia on the bookshelves and big movies about superheroes and television shifted to take full advantage of the chance to tell stories about the human condition like never before.
But ironically enough, television’s push to offer us more and give us all the stories we can handle, has allowed for such stories to start to return to the marketplace. Since we are indeed seeing shows that are looking into magic and the fantastical again. To remind us of the wonder of letting our imagination loose and pondering upon the impossible, and it just so happens, that Viaplay is now home to a supremely special show in that vein for certain. For recently, Ronja, the Robber’s Daughter debuted on the streamer, and this series, one based off of Astrid Lindgren’s hit books… not only does the book justice but truly immerses us in a world of the fantastical in a manner that few stories in this genre have ever managed to accomplish. Thanks to its unique and refreshing plot. For this is a story that introduces us to a young girl named Ronja. Who lives in a world where incredible things roam about. For in the forest just beyond her home, are stunning creatures that defy imagination and defy what we know of the world. Which truly does capture, the wonder of this genre. Since we are privy to beings that are unlike anything else we’ve ever seen on television and harbor personalities and quirks that make them lively and interesting and dangerous and enchanting, all at once. And that… is what brings the majesty of this genre back to life and they are integral to the story and wow us every time they’re on-screen courtesy of magnificent special effects that work. But alas, the wonder of being around such beings and such an incredible forest has drifted us away from how exactly we find ourselves lost within the story. Well as it turns out, the show’s humanity it what makes it so great. For this is a story where magic and the fantastical are part of everyday life. A life that harbors so much of what we know and love about our own adventures. Since this is a story about family, what it means to be born into circumstance, and what it means to deal with the foolish and close-minded nature of family. Not to mention in many ways, this is a coming of age story, one that showcases the wonder we all experience when we discover the world beyond our front lawn, and that in many ways, allows for the magic in this tale to serve as an allegory for the wonder and the terror of growing up, of the incredible things we discover when we open our eyes and see the world around us. All of which makes, for a magnificent story. One that is genuinely human and relatable in so many ways, and filled with beauty, and action and adventure and a tenderness that you just don’t find in fantasy stories. But that’s why this one is of note, and why it is one you must see if fantasy stories have captivated you in the past. For this blends the majesty of what we love about the genre, with the majesty of modern storytelling to give us a stunningly beautiful story. One that captivates and engages and leaves us eager for more, all courtesy of a tale that breaks new ground for the genre, and one that we’ve been light upon when it comes to the details. Simply because spoiling anything here would be cruel and because, you can enjoy the journey right now on Viaplay, and we hope you give it a look. Because this story is a true gift and a magnificent throwback to when the fantastical ruled the day. Watch ‘Ronja, the Robber’s Daughter’
Written by John Edward Betancourt LAW & ORDER: SPECIAL VICTIMS UNIT -- "Cornered" Episode 26008 -- Pictured: Peter Scanavino as A.D.A Dominick "Sonny" Carisi Jr. -- (Photo by: Peter Kramer/NBC)
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 2608 of ‘Law & Order: Special Victims Unit’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
There is a hard belief in our world that police officers and those involved in law enforcement in any capacity, are immune from the struggles from the world. Such as having crimes committed against them, and there is merit to that line of thinking. After all, some of them, make enough money to live in an insulated world where their kids go to great private schools and they’re in the office night and day, and avoid the ugly stuff. Not to mention, special training should allow for a cop, for instance, to recognize trouble when it arrives and be able to avoid it or quell it before it brings them harm. But this view… isn’t one hundred percent accurate in the slightest. Because anyone can be a victim of crime at any time, even officers of the law. As evidenced by this week’s episode of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit on NBC. Although, it did not seem as though ‘Cornered’ was going to focus on that. Since this episode opened up in a supremely bright manner. With ADA Carisi going about his day, getting coffee from his favorite local deli and he even made a second voyage there to pick up some flowers for one of his staff members. But that is when this day took quite the turn, out of the blue, as days where people run into crime often do. In that, his favorite deli was being held up, and he was forced to try and cool the situation down. But the arrival of Benson, who was expecting him at an important meeting and received some advice on where to go to find him… came to discover he was in distress and that led to a harrowing story. One that was tense, terrifying, and deeply explored the lesson, and what being in the middle of a crime is like… and its impact upon even the toughest of people. Which the story accomplished by taking us through an hourlong nightmare. Wherein Carisi was held at gunpoint with two women who were also in the deli, and its dying cashier. Where he did his best to delay an all-out breach to preserve life and get Boyd, and Deonte, the perpetrators, to stand down, with minimal luck. For Boyd was a madman and crossed all kinds of lines in this story in an effort to stick it to the man and enjoy life the way he saw it, and that brought about moments that made us deeply uncomfortable and pushed Carisi to his breaking point. Because despite his genius as a lawyer, and his past as an NYPD cop, he was helpless here. He was just a guy that could only hope for the best and prepare for the worst and that made all of us wonder if he was going to make it out of this nightmare alive or if something awful was about to happen. But thankfully, Benson’s attempts to trade places with her dear friend, and Carisi’s own genius as a lawyer, led to resolution of this madness. Because eventually he was able to plant enough seeds to get Deonte to turn on Boyd and blast him, and that led to a raid and the arrest of Deonte. Who was going to pay for this for certain and that… seemed like a happy ending but it was anything but. Simply because, there was a loss of innocent life, one would be forever changed by Boyd’s actions and Carisi, was broken by this. Because he was now a victim, a statistic and that which he tried to prevent and despite his claims of strength and claims of stability, it was clear, he was transformed for the worse, and that a long road lie ahead for this brilliant prosecutor. One that would require so much support and so much love for him to heal. All of which made for a stunning midseason finale. Because we so rarely understand the fact that anyone can be a victim of crime, even those as talented as Carisi. Because crime doesn’t care about rank, experience and standing. It’s just a force of nature that rips lives apart and shatters minds, as it did here, and that was a sobering lesson to learn. Courtesy of a story that put us on the edge of our seats from beginning to end. Simply because we did not see this coming, nor did we expect this episode to go as hard as it did. But this series will absolutely let loose when the moment is right, and it certainly did here, and truly it is safe to say that we are all worried about Carisi and will be counting down the days until the show’s return in 2025. To see if this brave man can make peace with being part of the problem he is trying so desperately to solve or if trauma and fear will make him hesitant to live life to the fullest. Until next time. Watch ‘Law & Order: Special Victims Unit’Written by John Edward Betancourt LAW & ORDER -- "Bad Apple" Episode 24008 -- Pictured: (l-r) Fredric Lehne as Captain Greg Stockwell, Maura Tierney as Lt. Jessica Brady, Reid Scott as Det. Vincent Riley, Mehcad Brooks as Det. Jalen Shaw -- (Photo by: Virginia Sherwood/NBC)
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 2408 of ‘Law & Order’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
One particular conundrum we all hope to avoid in the workplace, is being the person that has to decide whether or not to speak up about something unethical or illegal happening around us. In part because, no one wants to deal with that and the drama it entails, we just want to go to work and do a good job to feed our families and our passions. But also… because… it’s a hard call to make. For while we know the right thing is the way to go, it also causes harm and chaos and can make life difficult until the drama passes, and we don’t want to deal with that. But dread or no, that moment will likely come, and we should err on the side of what’s right for reasons that are outlined in the fall finale of Law & Order on NBC. For ‘Bad Apple’ saw quite the case come into everyone’s lap. In that, a good cop named Harrison was found dead one fine morning in the city and that of course, rattled the NYPD and forced Lieutenant Brady to take point on this case. Because this deceased cop was from her former precinct and she felt compelled to bring justice to the fallen and for a time, it seemed as though this would be an easy one to solve. For Harrison was recently involved in a big drug raid and since he helped chase the kingpin off, he would be target number one for revenge, so everyone needed to find the kingpin. Which they did through a citywide manhunt and in the process, recovered the murder weapon. Making this one an open and shut matter. But Brady had concerns. Because something in her gut told her this was wrong, especially since Harrison was known to be a whistle blower and well, she began to wonder if something greater was at work. Something that involved Detective Miles Brandt, the deceased’s shady partner. So, she carefully set up a trap, one that worked to a tee and put him on trial, but that… did not go as smoothly as expected. For the brotherhood built in Brady’s old unit wanted no part of the truth, and even the captain, who knew all about the ugliness that happened here, had little interest in opening up that can of worms. He just wanted to coast to retirement and forget that Brandt was a dirty cop that took money from busts and felt the need to exact revenge upon his partner for doing the right thing by speaking up. Which put Brady in that difficult place. Because she… had heard about the illegal things that Brandt did from Harrison as well, and also made a point to sweep that under the rug, as per the brotherhood expected, and that left her wondering… what she could do to finally set things right and bring about justice for the fallen. So… she took the stand, and she made it clear that Brandt was a dirty cop and committed the ultimate crime and that was enough to get a conviction and put that scumbag behind bars. But alas, there was a price to pay, because Brady did let this slide for far too long and that brought Internal Affairs into her office with questions. The kind that might bring her great trouble when the show returns in 2025. But what mattered more, is that Brady did the right thing, and she truly made a point to teach us… why we have to do the right thing when this conundrum arrives. So that we don’t cover anything up and find ourselves regretting doing things right, and to not embolden the wrong people to keep going and escalate. And regardless of the consequences, we will feel good about choosing the right side, and that made for a powerful episode. One that finally showcased Brady and her past, and what she stands for after keeping her in the dark for most of this new season, and this set the stage for more potential change in the office. Since we don’t know if she will survive this mess and if she can lead a team well since the Blue Wall tends to hold grudges. But while we wait to see, we can revel in a smart and engaging tale, and a quality fall finale to a show that continues to impress after all these years. Until next time. Watch ‘Law & Order’
Written by John Edward Betancourt FOUND -- "Missing While Haunted" Episode 208 -- Pictured: (l-r) Brett Dalton as Detective Mark Trent, Gabrielle Walsh as Lacey, Shanola Hampton as Gabi -- (Photo by: Matt Miller/NBC)
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 208 of ‘Found’. To revisit the previous episode, click here. This article also contains discussion of suicide ideation, which may be triggering for some individuals.
When the going gets tough in life, and it brings great strife, there comes a point where we find ourselves… at a crossroads. Wherein we are so tired, and overwhelmed that we must make quite the choice. In that, we can either surrender to the chaos and let is wash us away and see where we end up when its waves recede… or we can take a moment and reflect and understand what we are up against and fight it. Confront it. Deal with it at last so we can get on with our lives, and well, choosing the fighting option is a tough one for certain. Because so much goes into finding the positive way forward and for proof… look no further than the fall finale of Found on NBC. For ‘Missing While Haunted’ saw the team at their absolute lowest. After all, Zeke was still under investigation and Margaret was a mess emotionally with her normal routine being ripped away. Dhan was of course on edge about his relationship faltering and Gabi was still haunted by the nightmare that happened to be Sir and her uncertain future. All of which put the team in a sour place mentally, and left them wondering if it was just time to surrender to the waves, come what may. But the arrival of a young girl, one whose mother went missing and was likely kidnapped by someone her family knew, gave them enough focus to solve a case and help them understand how to stand tall and fight what was haunting them. Because they came to learn, that the little girl’s mother, was being plagued by her own demons. The kind that came forth through schizophrenia, but were demons none the less, and she had in many ways, surrendered to her illness and let the waves wash over her. Since she made up the man that was chasing her and causing her harm. To cope with the reality that she wasn’t doing anything to improve her current situation. But the end result was fear, a fractured family and a long road ahead and well, seeing that in action, helped everyone realize, that they too… were haunted in their own ways and were letting their past and their own demons get in the way of making them happy and moving their lives forward, and that led to some powerful lessons. The kind that helped everyone to understand… that they didn’t have to go this alone and should not. Because they were great friends and took good care of one another. And they should support each other in their struggles, as they stood against them and confronted them. Which brought about incredible support and unity, and an understanding it was time to let go of anger and division. Which allowed for Dhan to keep Margaret from harming herself by walking into the water to die and it brought him close to his love and prompted them to fight for tomorrow and find resolution, and this lesson also prompted Gabi… to finally face the monster in her closet. In part because Zeke got the letter that Trent had, but also because… she realized it was time, and that brought us to quite the cliffhanger for certain. One that saw Gabi return to old haunts to face the greatest ghost of all. All of which made for an amazing episode. Since it found a way to bring all the conflicts and fights to a head in a healthy and beautiful manner. So, this team could find resolution and find peace and start to heal at last. Granted, it will take time, and it won’t be easy. But they’re facing their monsters, their ghosts and that’s just incredible, and it was nice to see this play out. Because it’s been hard to watch them all fight and spit fire at one another. Because they’re a family of sorts and truly complement one another and this could not have come at a better time. Since Gabi is about to fight an ugly fight. One that will rattle her and harm her and leave her in a weakened place, and that unity will help heal her and remind her of the strength she has inspired in others when the show returns in 2025. Until next time. Watch ‘Found’Written by John Edward Betancourt Tim Robbins and Common as Bernard Holland and Robert Sims in Episode 202 of ‘Silo’ – ‘Control’. (Photo Courtesy of Apple.)
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 202 of ‘Silo’. To revisit the Season 2 Premiere, click here.
While the season two premiere of the hit Apple TV+ series, Silo, answered a great deal of questions for us, since it helped us to learn about the fate of Juliette Nichols and the fate of another Silo, while giving us a glimpse in the awful world that humanity now inhabits, it also, left plenty of questions in the air. After all, we still have no clue what brought Planet Earth to this hideous state, and why the past is considered to be such a valuable secret, and we also were left wondering… what happened to the Silo that Juliette left behind? Because she was on camera when she walked over the hill, and what impact would have on those who watched that happen on their screens? Well as it turns out, the next episode of the show wasted little time in answering what happened within the Silo left behind and ‘Order’ quickly informed us that perhaps this episode should have been entitled, ‘Chaos’. To better reflect what happened in those moments after. Because all ten thousand of the Silo’s inhabitants watched in horror as Juliette lived, and that brought about… a host of emotions from the people, none of them good. Because just like that, people wanted answers, and there was a real sense that a riot similar to the one that happened in the other Silo was about to take place. For there was just fury on every level from the souls of these individuals. But that’s when the show earned its original title for this episode. Mainly because, some parties tried to restore order amongst the people, such as Martha. Who flat out hosed down the mob and informed people to just go home or get back to work. Because none of this was worthwhile and she knew violence would solve nothing. Not to mention, Bernard was forced to get creative to cool things off. Such as implementing a curfew, preparing a speech and reaching out to every person he deemed a resource in the Silo to cool the rising temperature of fury. Which helped us to learn a lot about how the Founders expected to maintain control in the event of a riot, and it even revealed a troubled past between he and Judge Meadows and well, this did indeed give Bernard enough time to execute a fascinating plan.  Harriet Walter as Martha Walker in Episode 202 of ‘Silo’ – ‘Control’. (Photo Courtesy of Apple.)
One where he basically constructed, the biggest pile of B.S. ever assembled in this Silo. To distract and deflect and make everyone believe that a better tomorrow was on the horizon for everyone. Since his speech spoke to a new tape that would let people venture out and find answers, and it was so inspiring that he kept hecklers at bay. But what made this such nonsense, was the sheer fact that Bernard used spy technology to learn about the tape from Martha and her friends, and he paid the hecklers to make it real and of course, promised that tape and technology to make everyone feel as though the dawn of a new era of hope was on the horizon. But hell, it worked, and there was control in the Silo at last, but a shaky one at best.
Because in the down below, Shirley continued to assemble people in secret, and sow discontent and demand for the truth. To the point where Martha tried her best to point out the foolish nature of this demand and how quickly it could backfire if Shirley did not get what she wanted. But fury was still growing, and even Bernard knew this. In fact, he even told Meadows and Sims that this only bought them a slice of time. Enough to plan ahead because soon… people would want out and want answers and he was shockingly right. Since Judge Meadows even spoke to her own desire to get hold of a suit like Juliette’s so she could step out into the world and see it for herself. But what matters most here, is that this episode made it clear, that chaos was what Juliette left behind and created inadvertently by stepping over that hill. Because it rocked the foundations of the Silo, and truly put Bernard in a difficult spot. Because villain or no, the burden is now upon him to maintain order and a way forward and who knows how he will accomplish that. Because if there is one aspect of our humanity that has always been present and likely will remain ages into the future, it would be that once we truly want something… we will stop at nothing to have it. And now, there are people in the Silo that are starting to feel that when it comes to the truth, and it is only a matter of time before chaos ascends and who knows what will come of that. Until next time. Watch ‘Silo’
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