NEW YORK, NY – On Sunday, January 21 at 9pm Eastern Time, Hallmark’s “The Way Home” returns to TV screens for its second season.
From Stranger Things to Squid Games to walking through the pages of our favorite stories from Disney Animation, live immersive experiences have become all the rage in recent years as entertainment properties invite us into their universe.
I was but a child in high school when I first randomly chose The Sopranos from a list of possible shows I could watch on my HBO, and having now completed it several times, it has rocketed up to one of my favorite shows of all time, along with Breaking Bad and The Office. With the 25th anniversary of its original premiere upcoming on January 10th, 2024, HBO reached out to me to experience the pilot episode once more in a screening at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema in Lower Manhattan, in an event that would celebrate the shows popularity, influence, and legacy.
The Alamo Drafthouse VHS collection
The first spectacle was the theater itself. The Alamo Drafthouse was renowned as a theater, restaurant, and bar all rolled into one, offering patrons the unique ability to order food while watching, and having servers bring it to you mid-film. The theater’s love of film was very evident, with a whole room dedicated to professing a spectacular collection of movies all on VHS, and various antique movie posters and memorabilia. It felt like a miniature museum within the theater, and I appreciated the dedication and attention to detail. The theater had also set up a The Sopranos themed backdrop, complete with a fake meat market akin to the one seen in the show, and a small “outdoor” table at which fans could pose with props and clothing from the show. For a brief moment, I was in the show’s universe, and it was magical.
We headed back to the theater and took a seat while the event began. Each person’s seat had a small gift bag which contained The Sopranos merchandise. Mine had a little Funko Pop! figure of Carmela Soprano, which I thought was cute.
My pizza. Tony would be proud.
The night started with a little bit of trivia about the show, and while I was unable to win a prize for any of the questions, I got all of them correct in my head, thinking of the answer a split second before another individual said it each time (I swear). To prepare for the screening, I ordered a brussels sprout pizza and a specialty banana cocktail.
Banana cocktail from the menu
Finally, it was time to return to where it all started. The lights dimmed, and for the fifth time in my life, the pilot of The Sopranos began playing, and I sat back with a smile on my face. This would be the first time in my adult life that I would be watching this show, and right away I could tell that I was picking up on emotions and motives that I had not previously detected. I saw James Gandolfini Jr. begin talking about the ducks as Tony Soprano once more, and watching his amazing performance and thinking ahead to where this show would go in six seasons, I couldn’t help but realize that I desperately needed to rewatch it. This was a show that had started a golden age in modern television, one which was still ongoing.
Ready for the screening
As I watched Gandolfini Jr.’s nuanced performance, I realized truly the impact that this show has had, and shuddered at the thought of where we would have been without it.
I am currently almost through the first season of the show on my fourth rewatch, and I am enjoying and eagerly anticipating every moment of it. This screening of the pilot ignited a dormant love for the show that I have had for a while, and I hope it did the same to the other attendees at the event. A celebration of this show’s 25th anniversary was the perfect way for HBO to bring new interest to the show, and I hope it remains popular and continues to influence generations to come.
In the latest installment of Power Book III: Raising Kanan, the audience experienced a tumultuous journey filled with unexpected turns and heightened emotions.
This week’s installment of Power Book III: Raising Kanan delivered a riveting experience, laden with unforeseen twists and compelling developments that left viewers teetering on the edge of their seats.
I am not going to downplay it: I am a massive fan of the original Netflix series Squid Game, created by Hwang Dong-hyuk. The series is absolutely brilliant in its portrayal of modern capitalist struggles, and the lengths that struggling people will go to, sacrificing everything that they have, just for some money. When I heard that Netflix was making a spin-off gameshow called Squid Game: The Challenge, I was immediately excited; this is exactly what I had been waiting for. Taking the existing show and turning into something real and tangible, with the largest cast and the largest cash prize in reality TV history. I eagerly watched the episodes when they released, in
The claw machine from the show
anticipation of the next while each episode became more and more tense. This is when I received an invite to attend a premiere for the final episode, and I knew I had to attend.
The venue itself was situated along the west side of Manhattan, and was absolutely beautiful. As I entered, I saw many contestants from the show arrive as well, with their player number imprinted on the vehicle.
Squid Game Workers
Seeing favorites from the show was surreal, and I even saw contestants from the final three, such as Sam and Mai. Inside, the whole venue had been decorated with stunning Squid Game imagery, with quotes from the show on the walls and the red-clad workers with the iconic shapes on their helmets standing guard as exciting picture opportunities. Also available were several activities and treats: I saw a claw machine and a giant game of battleship, both pulled straight from the show. There was a food stand offering pretzels, and a bar offering themed cocktails, such as one called Red Light, Green Light after the show’s first game.
I played a quick game of battlefield, and attempted to sink my opponents ships using oversized pegs and ship pieces. I came close, but unfortunately he got the better of me in the end. It was crazy to think that I was playing this game so casually, and losing with no consequences, while losing the same game in the show meant an immediate reduction of your chances of winning millions of dollars to zero.
Jumbo Battleship
I went around to take some pictures with the Squid Game workers (they were thankfully peaceful here), and before I knew it, the premiere was about to begin. I took my seat, and the final three contestants, Sam, Mai, and Phil came up to the stage to give a short introduction. I watched them introduce themselves and the premise of the show, and I knew that they knew which one of them had won: they were already aware of this cherished secret. After final remarks, the episode began.
THE FOLLOWING CONTAINS SPOILERS ABOUT THE FINAL EPISODE OF SQUID GAME: THE CHALLENGE
The final episode was enthralling. I was on the edge of my seat trying to decide who would come out on top. Sam, Phil, and Mai were all at a feast, which concluded with them being given the next task: randomly choosing one button out of three to pick. If the button went green, they and one other of their choice could proceed; if the button went gray, nothing would happen; if the button went red, they would be eliminated. It was an interesting concept that kept the outcomes random, but also allowed for a hint of decision making in who would be selected to come to the next stage. Surprisingly enough, the person I thought would win immediately lost: Sam. I was gutted, but excited to see what would happen next.
The final contestants on stage
We also received some backstories to the characters, where I learned what Mai, Phil, and Sam had to go through. Each had had a tough life, and I still could not decide who I was rooting for.
The final game was again a random one that could have a little bit of strategy to it: rock, paper, scissors. The two remaining contestants would throw their selection again and again, and each winner would be able to select a key to unlock a safe. The first to find the correct key would win the game. After what seemed like hours, and with Mai clearly overpowering Phil in her critical thinking and strategy, she found the correct key and won. The whole room burst into applause, and confetti was shot into the air over the crowd. I was astonished at the winner, but simultaneously extremely happy for Mai. She seemed like she really needed the money, and she had had nothing but hardships throughout her life, including a teenage pregnancy and being kicked out of her family. She absolutely deserved it.
Confetti for the winner
THIS MARKS THE END OF THE SPOILERS SECTION
I had an amazing time at the premiere of the final episode, and although I had already been watching the show, it was something different to be able to watch it in the same room as hundreds of other fans. If you have not already watched the show on Netflix, I wholeheartedly recommended it. The show tackles the human spirit, and the importances of friendships and enemies likewise in achieving one’s goals. It is one of the best shows that I have watched in 2023, and is a must-see.
Thank you to Netflix and the Squid Game team for the amazing opportunity.
STARZ has officially announced the commencement of production for the fourth season of its esteemed family crime drama, “Power Book III: Raising Kanan.”
This milestone comes ahead of the highly anticipated premiere of its third season on December 1. Production is scheduled to commence this week in New York.
Kathryn Busby, President of Original Programming for STARZ, expressed enthusiasm about continuing Kanan Stark’s narrative. She anticipates that viewers, following the intense events unfolding in the third season, will demand more insights into Kanan’s character, exploring how his formative years shape the cold-hearted villain introduced in the original ‘Power’ series. Notably, “Power Book III: Raising Kanan” is the first Power spinoff to reach its fourth season, highlighting its enduring success. The fourth season is slated for debut in 2024.
They set season three to debut on December 1, with subsequent episodes released weekly on Fridays at midnight ET on the STARZ app and all STARZ streaming and on-demand platforms. The linear premiere is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. ET/PT on STARZ in the U.S. and 9:00 pm ET in Canada.
Set against the backdrop of the early 1990s, the series explores the origin story of the beloved character, Kanan Stark, as he enters the criminal world under the ruthless leadership of his mother, Raquel “Raq” Thomas. The cast includes MeKai Curtis as Kanan, Tony® Award winner Patina Miller as Raq, Omar Epps as Detective Malcolm Howard, and a stellar ensemble portraying other key characters.
Sascha Penn will resume his role as the showrunner and executive producer for the upcoming fourth season. The “Power” Universe series continues to be executive produced by Courtney A. Kemp, creator and showrunner of the original “Power,” Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, and Mark Canton. Additional executive producers include Chris Selak and Kevin Fox. The series is produced by Lionsgate Television for STARZ.
For some reason beyond me, the character Reva seems to get some unnecessary hate during her screen time on the series Obi-Wan Kenobi while Shin Hati gets praised by fans for some reason.
The Ahsoka series was praised highly by fans while Obi-Wan Kenobi received more of a mixed response from fans, with the audiences claiming that the latter was more woke and unnecessary in the lore of Star Wars. As a result, the character Reva was derided and Shin Hati was more beloved by fans. I’m here to explain why the Star Wars fans are, once again, wrong in their assessment of these characters.
Reva’s arch is more drawn out
Reva’s arch stretches out all the way from Revenge of the Sith, as she was one of the younglings in the Jedi Temple when Darth Vader came waltzing in with an army of clones murdering almost everyone in their path. This history cements her arch broader into the lore of the series and gives her a proper motivation as to why she joined the darker side of the force.
With all of that being said, her trauma is detailed and her anger seems more justified and why she joined forces with the Grand Inquisitor.
Reva is a more passionate character
Reva is a much more passionate character in the miniseries than Hati and while both women want the approval of their superiors, Hati seems more shallow in her attempts at trying to earn that respect and her motivations seem a lot weaker than Reva’s.
Hati seems like a very hollow character in the Star Wars universe as she is living in the shadow of another villain by the name of Baylan Skoll, who is a character that nobody really cares about in the universe. Reva lives in the shadow of Darth Vader which is more than enough to raise a few eyebrows as she is working for a villain who is already well-known in the universe.
To be fair, I don’t even remember any memorable moments from Hati either.
In this week’s episode of Fear The Walking Dead, we see it is Charlie’s last episode. But before that, Madison, Strand, and the rest are on a fetch quest.
Inside a store, their paths cross with members of PADRE who are in the process of securing valuable gas supplies. Amidst the search, Madison believes she spots a walker who closely resembles her daughter, Alicia. This prompts a reunion with Luciana, highlighting the bond between these characters.
Madison, who has endured immense loss, becomes determined to put the Alicia to rest and move forward if she sees her as a walker. The group then learns that Luciana’s gas station is, in fact, an outpost and their supplies are sourced from PADRE’s containers. The ever-present tension escalates when Madison encounters Charlie, only for her to discover that she was the one responsible for her son Nick’s death.
This revelation sparks an emotionally charged confrontation between Madison and Charlie. The exceptional acting performances by Kim Dickens and Alexa Nisenson provide depth to the grief-stricken mother and remorseful Charlie. Their intense argument delves into the complexity of their relationship, with Madison grappling with her desire for revenge, while Charlie contends with the weight of her actions.
However, it is important to point out that the decision to have such a confrontational scene, followed by Charlie taking her own life later in the same episode, leaves a lingering sense of inconsistency and lack of closure. After being treated for radiation poisoning at PADRE, Charlie was living with Luciana and dedicated herself to a mission that spanned several years to expand a trade network. Although it was good to know this information, it is more of a tell, but do not show. But then again, there are only a few more episodes left for this season so there is not enough time to tell that story (which it should have been given more time).
Madison’s line of “why is she still here” about Charlie echoes the sentiments of the Walking Dead community, as they question the continued existence of her for all these years. Strand’s response, emphasizing second chances, means nothing to me, to be honest.
Daniel’s is too humanized and this element, and’t resonate well with some viewers, who find it difficult to suspend their disbelief in light of his past threats.
The culmination of the episode sees a predictable and somewhat repetitive confrontation between Troy and Madison’s group, characterized by the usual standoffs and prolonged discussions. This approach feels overly familiar and cannot deliver a fresh dynamic in the narrative.
In conclusion, this episode of Fear The Walking Dead is rather mid, offering limited substance to the overall storyline. The exceptional acting by Alexa Nisenson stands out as a highlight, although it feels as if characters are required to channel their full acting prowess only in their final episodes, rather than throughout the series.
This week’s installment of Power Book IV: Force has set fans abuzz with its riveting blend of suspense and emotional depth.
Jenard’s descent into turmoil continues to captivate, while Mireya’s unexpected connection with Tommy adds layers of intrigue. Tommy’s triumphant recovery of his stolen ride injects a thrilling twist, and the ominous fate of law enforcement in the Power universe looms large. Mireya’s swift decision to leave her past relationship for Tommy hints at the magnetic allure he possesses.
Conversely, Diamond and Jenard’s father appear on the periphery of the narrative, contributing little to the unfolding drama. The poignant demise of the Flynn family’s most loyal member, Crown Vic, showcases character growth amidst the high-stakes world they inhabit.
D Mac’s surprising romantic venture introduces a compelling facet to his character, unveiling a more vulnerable side beneath his calculated exterior. This bold shift not only deepens our understanding of D Mac but also raises questions about the potential impact on his criminal alliances and loyalties. It introduces an element of unpredictability, keeping viewers guessing about his future choices.
Vic and Claudia’s ruthless dismantling of the organization in a single night leaves a lasting impression, highlighting the cutthroat nature of their world. This development sets the stage for intense plot twists, as power dynamics within the criminal underworld undergo a seismic shift. Questions about the repercussions of their actions hint at potential challenges and retaliation in future episodes.
In contrast to the chaos, Diamond’s poignant closure with his father provides a touching and emotionally resonant moment. The actors’ powerful performances convey profound emotions, showcasing the series’ ability to balance intense action with heartfelt human connection.
The scene between Diamond and Jenard stands out, emphasizing the actors’ exceptional skills and the writers’ ability to craft compelling character interactions. Tommy’s decision to send D Mac on a mission injects suspense into the storyline, leaving us eager to see the repercussions of this risky move. Meanwhile, Vic’s involvement in precarious endeavors with the police introduces uncertainty, raising questions about potential consequences for his character and the broader narrative. These developments promise a thrilling and unpredictable future for the series, leaving viewers eagerly expecting what’s next.
In summary, I have hailed this episode as the series’ pinnacle, offering a mix of thrilling twists and emotional depth that ensures an exhilarating ride for viewers in the episodes to come.