Alycia Debnam Carey Archives - Page 2 of 2

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Fear the Walking Dead” season 5 episode 2: “This is why Finding the Dead Matters”

Happy Tuesday TV fans! After watching AMC’s Fear the Walking Dead season 5 episode 2, I realized that we don’t always have to fast forward to regrets and a fresh start is within reach. Is it possible for people to change? Maybe, but “sometimes all you can do is try,” but is that truly enough during the zombie apocalypse? Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet. In last night’s episode, “The Hurt That Will Happen,” Alicia and the others try to find Al and come across a dangerous threat. Meanwhile, Victor works on making amends with an old friend and Luciana gets trippy on her medication. My top 5 moments from Fear the Walking Dead season 5 episode 2 are:

“Part of me was scared you’d stop looking.”

During this episode, we get a little bit of screen time for our favorite couple on Fear TWD, John and June. They stumble across Camp Cackleberry, which is creepy on its own, but they quickly discover that they are not alone. During this time, June talks about how she always kept moving in the past, fearing that John had stopped looking for, but we know that John Dorie’s heart will always belong to June. While this was a sweet moment for them, it was brief, and I’m looking forward to some more screen time for them. Although, sometimes more screen time can lead to an untimely death…so maybe not? Either way, I’m still shipping these two!

“This is why finding the dead matters…”

While searching for Al, Morgan meets a mysterious woman in a gas mask and hazmat suit. We learn that her name is Grace and she tells Morgan that he needs to go through decontamination immediately, as he may have been exposed to radiation. Alicia steps in and tries to help Morgan, but Grace tells her, “Let me keep you from losing another friend.” Grace seems genuine and fills Morgan and Alicia in on why this place is so dangerous. They are near pressurized water reactors that failed and we are now dealing with radioactive walkers…as if they weren’t dangerous enough already.

Luckily, Morgan seems to be OK, although he does need to give up his staff and clothes, but he definitely rocked the “Don’t Mess with Texas” T-shirt with style. Grace thinks we are dealing with approximately 63 of her former staff members who were exposed and we soon learn that she doesn’t have much time left either. Grace does not seem to be associated with the group in masks that took Al and is trying to atone for her past mistakes. Alicia and Morgan ultimately leave to go find Al, but I think having Grace on the other end of a Walkie could come in handy for sure.

“You still talk too much, Victor…”

The wait is over and Daniel and Victor finally meet again! Victor finds Daniel held up in some kind of factory for vehicles and tells him that he needs a small plane to help his friends. Daniel keeps his guard up and even has an adorable cat named Skidmark, who may have just become my new favorite character! Victor tries to tell Daniel that he has changed and he is attempting to make up for what happened in Mexico, but Daniel ultimately sends him packing. Is this the last time we will see Daniel or is there more to come? We’ll have to stay tuned, but it will be interesting to see what Victor does next to help his friends.

“The accordion stuff is from the drugs.”

After a close call in the season 5 premiere, Luciana is recovering from her injury and June tells her she needs to take it easy. Luciana hilariously asks when she will be able to play the accordion and we learn that this is the drugs talking…not Luciana. John retrieves the book, The Little Prince, which was extremely thoughtful and sweet. This book is not the only survivor, as Luciana finds herself barely getting out of a dangerous situation after talking briefly to Victor over the radio. Several walkers head toward her and the drugs start kicking in with the worst possible timing.

Luckily, Luciana is able to make it back into the truck stop without being harmed, but our new threat decides that leaving a note doesn’t really send a message anymore, as they take out the walkers and decorate the truck stop with their severed reanimated heads. Seriously, I’m thinking about hiring these guys for some redecorating. Either way, this reminds us that our new threat is trying to send a message or a warning. Are our characters getting too close to something? It looks like that may be the case, but we’ll have to see how this unfolds. We still don’t know where Al is and those kids from the season 5 premiere are also out there somewhere.

“The way out is opening the door to people.”

Alicia’s guilt begins to overwhelm her, feeling responsible for Al’s disappearance. She says it is her job to keep everyone safe, but Morgan decides to give her some spot on advice, recognizing that he has previously been where Alicia is now. Morgan tells Alicia, “You don’t know it until somebody tells you.” He explains that you can’t run away and that there is a way out that involves opening the door to people.

The idea of a fresh start and change really resonated with me in this episode and I love the bond between Morgan and Alicia. They remind me of two lost souls, slowly finding their way with one another’s support. Alycia Debnam-Carey continued to impress me in this episode. She shows off her bad-ass side while taking out any walker that gets in her way, but she also has a softer side. A side that reminds us that deep down she is still vulnerable and hurt, but that she has the chance to find her way again by helping others. Stay strong, Alicia! You’re on the right path. Stay tuned!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own theories and thoughts on Fear the Walking Dead in the comments section below. Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

**Goodreads Giveaway currently going on for Book Two, Embracing the Looking-Glass (100 copies available) from 5/29/19-6/21/19 Enter Goodreads Giveaway Here!

Do you love television shows like Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel, Once Upon a Time, Lost, Charmed, The Vampire Diaries, and Supernatural? Do you enjoy dark fantasy, fairy-tale retellings, paranormal romance, horror, and mystery? Then you may like my book series, Dreaming of Wonderland…available on Amazon! Thank you for taking the time to check it out and I appreciate any feedback as well. I really hope you enjoy!

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My performance of the week ending 6/8/19 on TV goes to…

Alycia Debnam-Carey as Alicia Clark on Fear the Walking Dead. As the last Clark standing, our girl Alicia has gone through so much and yet she is now even stronger than before, emerging as a true leader and someone our characters can count on. Please note some spoilers are ahead. In the season 5 premiere, Alicia proves just how bad-ass she is. She works so well with Morgan and the two have formed quite the dynamic duo, taking out walkers left and right, but there is something so magnetic about Alicia. It’s almost like she has just become the slayer or chosen one in the Walking Dead universe and walkers everywhere better watch out!

I was blown away by Alycia’s performance in season 4, as she really dug deep to unravel the emotions and grief going on within Alicia Clark, but I love that she is continuing to grow more and more as the show goes on. Alicia is smart and aware of her surroundings, recognizing the potential for threats and bad omens even more so than Morgan, who always wants to find the silver lining in every scenario. Her mother, Madison, would be so proud of her, as she has really embraced the role of a leader, which is no easy task.

What’s next for Alicia? I’m not sure, but it will be interesting to see how the dynamic shifts once Dwight arrives. Alicia always has her guard up and that’s not necessarily a bad thing, as she is always looking at things from every angle. These new potential enemies better look out because our girl is not messing around. There is a sense of empowerment surging through Alicia Clark and I think she may have just become one of my favorite characters on television. I can’t wait to see what she does next!

Stay tuned for a recognized performance on TV each week!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

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Have a performance on TV that you think is simply outstanding? Feel free to contact me with your nomination for the week by Friday at midnight!

**Goodreads Giveaway currently going on for Book Two, Embracing the Looking-Glass (100 copies available) from 5/29/19-6/21/19 Enter Goodreads Giveaway Here!

The Dreaming of Wonderland Book Series is available here!

Free Instant Preview of The Search for Alice is available here!

**If you enjoyed this blog, I would love it if you would click the follow button on your way out to subscribe. Thanks for your support!

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Fear the Walking Dead” season 5 episode 1: “We’re Still Standing”

Happy Tuesday TV fans! After watching AMC’s Fear the Walking Dead season 5 episode 1 season premiere, I realized that there’s always a story somewhere. But sometimes it may be better to leave that story alone, but you know what they say about curiosity and the cat. Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet. In last night’s episode, “Here to Help,” we dive right back into the Fear Twd world, as our favorite characters face dangerous threats, putting their lives in immediate danger when their plane crashes in an unknown location. Meanwhile, Luciana is badly injured, Alicia and Morgan team up to make a nearly unstoppable team, and Victor discovers a surprising video. My top 5 moments from the Fear the Walking Dead season 5 episode 1 season premiere are:

“It’s OK…we’re here to help!”

In the beginning of the episode, we follow two young boys, Dylan and Max, who end up in a dangerous situation after some walkers surround them. We don’t waste much time; however, as our girl Alicia swoops in to save the day, kicking some serious ass! Seriously, she reminded me of a super hero or something! Morgan and Alicia also make quite the tag team, taking out walkers left and right, but the dead keep coming, putting our favorite characters in great danger. We quickly discover that they crash landed a plane after trying to help someone named Logan over the radio. So maybe flying was not the best plan, as Luciana is severely injured and we don’t really have any idea where they landed, but if anyone can survive, it’s our fearless group on Fear Twd!

“You should be a part of it.”

A young girl named Annie shows up in a van to help our characters out of a sticky situation and they hold up in a nearby truck stop, realizing that they need to treat Luciana’s wound as soon as possible. Luckily, she will be OK! Annie is the sister of the young boys and they refer to walkers as Growlers, which I thought was pretty catchy. Morgan wants the children to come back with them, explaining their mission to help others in need, but the children seem skeptical.

Clearly, they have been on their own for quite some time and they are hesitant about trusting others, warning our group about where they have landed. I mean, if they aren’t convinced by movie night, I’m not sure what will really do the trick. Sidebar, I found it absolutely adorable that John Dorie got the movie night going and I wonder if perhaps there could be a joint movie night in the future, since that was such a hit on The Walking Dead as well! However, the children ultimately decide to leave, but Morgan hasn’t given up on them just yet.

“Something’s not right…”

Alicia is on to something here, as Morgan tries to radio over to Logan. Only, we quickly learn that Logan is the “L” in C&L and he was Clayton’s former partner. Logan doesn’t want to continue on with this mission to help others, as he just wants to claim back what is his. He lured Morgan and the others away from the denim factory so that he could take it back, but he claims that he doesn’t want to hurt anyone. Logan says, “Looks like you’re gonna have to help yourself,” but he really shouldn’t underestimate our amazing group of characters. While it seems like this is the introduction of our new villain/foe for the season, it looks like there may be another threat out there as well. I’m looking forward to discovering more about Logan and his intentions, however.

“It’s not supposed to be easy.”

After finding out that their other friends may be in danger and that they are now stranded in unknown territory, Alicia begins to share her doubts with Morgan. Morgan continues to keep things positive; however, telling Alicia, “If we’re out here, we need to make it mean something. It’s not supposed to be easy. Maybe that’s how we know we’re on the right track.” I think Morgan is definitely on to something here. Our group has been through so much and they are still standing and surviving, trying to make the world a better place. It may seem like an impossible goal, but it’s something that truly gives them purpose and you have to admire them here. Rick would be so proud of Morgan, as it seems like he is the one following through on Rick’s own vision. But it definitely will be far from easy…

“I was right…there’s a story here.”

Al continues to try and record what’s going on, holding on to their story as much as possible. The journalist in Al has never really gone away, but she may want to rethink her skills as a pilot. Just saying. Al has a close encounter with a walker in a strange mask and uniform and she tells Morgan that she believes there is a story here. Patience is not one of Al’s strong suits, as she decides to head back there at night. She eliminates the walker behind the mask and discovers some papers with a three ring symbol all over them. What does the symbol mean? I’m not sure, but Al is interrupted when she is tased by someone in the same type of mask. Someone on Twitter posted a picture of the helicopter Rick got on with the same symbol so is everything connected and who are these masked strangers?

Earlier in the episode, the children warned our group that “this place is worse than it seems” and we can’t really ignore the reanimated heads decorating the trees, but perhaps the main threat here is another group that might be extremely dangerous. Let’s hope that Al will be OK, but it looks like we have a lot to discover about them. Also, let’s not ignore the fact that Victor finds a tape with Daniel Salazar on it. Are we finally going to find out what happened to Daniel? It looks like we may be in luck! I have been liking Fear the Walking Dead more and more and this season premiere did not disappoint. I can’t wait to see what happens next. Stay tuned!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own theories and thoughts on Fear the Walking Dead in the comments section below. Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

**Goodreads Giveaway currently going on for Book Two, Embracing the Looking-Glass (100 copies available) from 5/29/19-6/21/19 Enter Goodreads Giveaway Here!

The Dreaming of Wonderland Book Series is available here!

Free Instant Preview of The Search for Alice is available here!

**If you enjoyed this blog, I would love it if you would click the follow button on your way out to subscribe. Thanks for your support!

Ranking your Favorite Female Performances on Television for 2018

Greetings TV Fans! As the New Year quickly approaches, it really got me thinking about some of my absolute favorite female performances on television this past year. Whether it was a moment of female empowerment, the unexpected transformation of a character, or a breakout role, I found myself completely mesmerized by so many of these performances. They touched my heart and soul and really gave me a lot to think about, as I followed them on their journey in 2018. Again, it was difficult for me to narrow down my favorite female performances for 2018 because there were honestly so many and I didn’t think it was possible for me to choose my absolute favorite one, which is where you came in!

I ran a three round poll (randomized tournament style) on Twitter and asked for fans to cast their votes so that we can all decide who our favorite female performances are for the year. Thank you so much for your participation and support, as the tournament was so much fun and actually really competitive!

**Seriously, we even had fans voting to support Alycia Debnam-Carey back from her Lexa days on The 100! Amazing!

Round One featured the following Female Performances on TV from 2018:

Madelaine Petsch as Cheryl Blossom from Riverdale
Sarah Paulson as Cordelia Goode from American Horror Story: Apocalypse
Alycia Debnam-Carey as Alicia Clark from Fear the Walking Dead
Dana DeLorenzo as Kelly Maxwell from Ash vs Evil Dead
Emma Roberts as Madison Montgomery from American Horror Story: Apocalypse
Lili Reinhart as Betty Cooper from Riverdale
Lola Flanery as Madi from The 100
Ruth Wilson as Alison Bailey from The Affair
Marie Avgeropoulos as Octavia Blake from The 100
Kiernan Shipka as Sabrina Spellman from Chilling Adventures of Sabrina
Billie Lourd as Mallory from American Horror Story: Apocalypse
Amanda Warren as Jane Barbour from The Purge

After your votes, the following female actresses moved on to Round Two:

Billie Lourd
Marie Avgeropoulos
Lili Reinhart
Emma Roberts
Alycia Debnam-Carey
Madelaine Petsch

Honorable Mention: Kiernan Shipka just came up short. I’m personally looking forward to seeing Sabrina cast some more spells in 2019 and I’m sure you are too!

After your votes in Round Two, the following female actresses moved on to the FINALS:

Lili Reinhart
Alycia Debnam-Carey
Billie Lourd

Honorable Mention & my personal favorite of the year: Marie Avgeropoulos may not have made it into the finals, but she absolutely captivated my attention in 2018. I was never really a fan of Octavia previously on The 100, but her character has transformed so much and I was amazed at Marie’s incredible range as an actress. I am looking forward to seeing more from “Blodreina” in 2019!

After your votes in Round Three, the FINAL results are:

3^rd place: Lili Reinhart as Betty Cooper from Riverdale

2^nd place: Billie Lourd as Mallory from American Horror Story: Apocalypse

Drum roll please…

1^st place: Alycia Debnam-Carey as Alicia Clark from Fear the Walking Dead

Alycia Debnam-Carey WINS as your favorite female performance on TV for 2018! Congratulations!

Alycia Debnam-Carey’s performance was so real and heartbreaking this past year on Fear the Walking Dead and her standout performance was in the episode, “Close Your Eyes” (Season 4, episode 10). It’s like I could feel every breath she took and every word she blurted out, empathizing with the pain screaming inside her character. While some of the main characters are now gone from the series, Alycia’s performance proved that she is a strong female protagonist, worthy of the lead and I am absolutely ready and willing to follow her in 2019!

Thanks to all the fans who voted! I wish you all the best for the upcoming New Year!

View Final Poll Results Here!

I hope you enjoyed the list and please feel free to post your thoughts and comments below on some of your favorite female performances on TV from 2018. Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

**I would love it if you would take a moment to check out my Whizbuzz Book page via the link below for everything you need to know about my new book, The Search for Alice, including my author bio page and links to my website and social media sites! Thank you!

My Whizbuzz Book Page

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

If you enjoyed this blog, I would love it if you would click the follow button on your way out to subscribe. Thanks for your support!

I am so excited to announce that my book, The Search for Alice, is now available! If you enjoy fairy-tale retellings, paranormal romance, horror, and mystery, then this might be the book for you or someone you know! Thank you for taking the time to check it out and I appreciate any feedback as well. I hope you enjoy!

When Kallie Bennett, a jaded teenage girl plagued by her alcoholic mother and her peers molded out of sheer bubble gum perfection, chases after Alice in Wonderland herself, she ends up lost in her own version of Wonderland, which forces her to face her utmost fears and introduces her to familiar characters with a dark twist. Among these characters is Ches, a gorgeous vampire with a conflicted conscience, who becomes Kallie’s guide and blossoming love interest. She also crosses paths with Queen Hartley, a manipulative witch who has the power to strip away one’s memories and imagination, which brings a bone chilling new meaning to “off with their heads.” In The Search for Alice, Kallie starts to realize that her Wonderland is just as frightening as her own reality and that she cannot always run away from her problems. She must figure out a way to defeat Queen Hartley and return home before it is too late, but she soon learns that escaping Wonderland means leaving Ches behind forever.

Want to read more? You can click the link directly below for a free preview. Thanks for your support!

Free Instant Preview of The Search for Alice is available here!

The Search for Alice is available here!

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Fear the Walking Dead” season 4 episode 10: “I Can See Her In You”

Happy Thursday TV fans! After watching AMC’s Fear the Walking Dead season 4 episode 10, I remembered that good memories can save your life. You may try to forget the past, but the good in those we lost before can help us find our way, even if it seems like it is hopeless. We can find strength in ourselves and in others just by opening our hearts a little bit, just enough to let someone else in who may be in as much pain as we are. Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet. In last night’s episode, “Close Your Eyes,” the storm has arrived and Alicia tries to find shelter on her own, but quickly realizes that she has an uninvited guest that she is now trapped with. Alicia desperately wants to do the right thing, but has trouble facing the person she holds responsible for killing her family. My top 5 moments from Fear the Walking Dead season 4 episode 10 are:

“You can never make up for it.”

While Alicia begins securing the house and taking out the walker family residing, she quickly discovers that Charlie is there too. Alicia panics and tells Charlie that she can’t be there, fearing what she might do to her. Alicia has a lot of bottled up pain and anger toward Charlie and rightfully so. Alicia is still a good person; however, and tells Charlie that she can’t send her out in the storm, but is worried that she may kill her if she stays there. Even though Alicia doesn’t physically harm Charlie, her words cut straight to the bone. Alicia tells Charlie that she is a waste of a person and that she wants her to stay alive so she can live with the pain and guilt of what she did to her family. Alicia’s brutal honesty clearly impacts Charlie, especially when she tells her that she can never forgive her. At this point, it’s clear that both Alicia and Charlie are in pain, unsure of how to deal with it. While Alicia puts her feelings out in the open, Charlie remains quiet for a long time, which creates an interesting contrast between these two. We all handle pain and grief in our own way. Sometimes we want to scream so loud that the earth will shake and other times we want to quietly numb ourselves, secluded away from the rest of the world. Alicia and Charlie’s worlds are about to collide; however, forcing them to deal with the pain that has been locked inside both of them for so long.

“Why did you save me?”

During the episode, both Alicia and Charlie spot a walker pinned by a tree branch outside the bedroom window. Charlie heads outside toward the walker, getting closer and closer to death, but Alicia pulls her away in the nick of time. Charlie finally speaks and asks Alicia why she saved her. Alicia suddenly realizes that the gun Charlie held on to was not for her. Charlie had come here to end her own life, but Alicia reminds her once again that she needs to live with it and that she can’t help her. While Alicia continues to do the right thing, she still cannot completely open up to Charlie. However, this moment is important because we start to truly understand Charlie’s character. While she has made many mistakes previously, she’s not that different from Alicia and the others, as she tries to find some way to cope with her loss.

“Sometimes when I’m reading I just like to close my eyes and try to see what I just read about.”

Charlie begins to open up to Alicia and tries to break the ice. She asks her about living in California, intrigued by the idea of the beach. Charlie’s love for reading and books starts to make more sense, as she explains the need to try and find some kind of escape in these words and stories. Alicia coldly responds that the beach is just like everywhere else, now covered with the dead. While Charlie is disappointed with her answer, Alicia begins to understand her more and more now.

“I can’t end up like them.”

Later in the episode, Alicia and Charlie end up trapped in the basement, as the water begins to quickly rise, threatening their lives. Charlie begins to panic and tells Alicia that she doesn’t want to end up like the dead. She tells Alicia that she saw her own parents turn and that she tries to remember what they looked like before, but she can’t. Charlie’s interest in photographs adds up now, as she tries to create some kind of picture of what her parents looked like before. She asks Alicia to end her life so that she doesn’t turn and Alicia even points the gun right at her head, but she can’t go through with it. Alicia breaks down also and begins seeing images and pictures of the last moments of her family, which is heartbreaking. Even though it is clearly difficult for Alicia to remember these moments, it gives her the strength she needs to do the right thing. When all seems lost, the walker from the roof falls on the door to the basement, ultimately saving both Alicia and Charlie. Whether this is coincidence or fate, I’m not so sure, but Alicia’s refusal to give up proves that she is more than just a survivor. She is a force of nature, stronger than the storm outside. Alicia finally channels her pain the right way, trying to keep her mother’s memory alive by doing so.

“Close your eyes…”

At the end of the episode, Alicia buries the walker family and has finally made a connection with Charlie. Charlie tells Alicia that she can see her mother in her, which is truly heartwarming. This leads to my absolute favorite moment of the episode, as Alicia and Charlie drive away. Alicia tells Charlie, “Close your eyes…I’m going to take you to the beach.” Charlie closes her eyes and Alicia walks her through every sight, smell, and sound. Charlie tells her that she can see it all and can now also finally see her mom and dad again. While this moment is truly touching, the escape is temporary, as Alicia quickly discovers that her friends are gone and tells Charlie that “things don’t get better…they get worse.” Reality has surfaced again and we don’t yet know the fate of the other characters, but this episode was extremely significant for both Alicia and Charlie. Alycia Debnam-Carey’s performance was so real and heartbreaking. It’s like I could feel every breath she took and every word she blurted out, empathizing with the pain screaming inside her character. While some of our favorite characters are gone, Alycia’s performance proved that she is a strong female protagonist, worthy of the lead and I am absolutely ready and willing to follow her. It looks like we will determine Morgan’s fate next week. Stay tuned!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own theories and thoughts on Fear the Walking Dead in the comments section below. Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

Stay up to date on upcoming premieres of horror TV series @ 12nightsofhorror.com/horror-series-coming-soon

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

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If you enjoyed this blog, I would love it if you would click the follow button on your way out to subscribe. Thanks for your support!

I am so excited to announce that my book, The Search for Alice, is now available! If you enjoy fairy-tale retellings, paranormal romance, horror, and mystery, then this might be the book for you or someone you know! Thank you for taking the time to check it out and I appreciate any feedback as well. I hope you enjoy!

Want to read more? You can click the link directly below for a free preview. Thanks for your support!

Free Instant Preview of The Search for Alice is available here!

The Search for Alice is available here!

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Fear the Walking Dead” season 4 episode 8 Mid-Season Finale: “No One’s Gone”

Happy Monday TV fans! After watching AMC’s Fear the Walking Dead season 4 episode 8, I learned that we really are all “connected by this single screwed up world,” as Al suggested. The truth is important and the stories and memories we leave behind are sometimes all we have left to cling to. We may not always find what we are looking for, but we touch the lives of so many without even realizing it. Words and actions matter and more importantly, the truth can bring us some much needed comfort, reminding us that it’s never too late to become the person we are meant to be. Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet. In last night’s episode, “No One’s Gone,” we learn that Madison and Al crossed paths in the past; making a much bigger impact on each other than anyone might have guessed. Meanwhile, Morgan and Naomi try to make it to the infirmary to help save John Dorie’s life, Alicia shows up to finish things once and for all, and Madison’s fate is finally revealed. My top 5 moments from Fear the Walking Dead season 4 episode 8 Mid-Season Finale are:

“Thought I’d mix it up today.”

When Al and the others show up at the stadium, the tank is surrounded by an overwhelming amount of walkers, but they are ready to cause a distraction that will allow Morgan and Naomi to get inside to help John. The plan seems to be working, but Alicia, Victor, and Luciana show up with an RPG, refusing to make this go seamlessly. Alicia and Al share some choice words over the walkie-talkie, while Al reminds her that she’s now definitely supporting the other side. It’s great to see Al finally step into the action, as she trusts Charlie to record what goes on, not wanting to lose out on a chance to document their story further. Alicia and Al get into quite the fight when Alicia shows up at the tank. Al comes pretty close to being the main course meal for the walkers, but is able to get out of this without a scratch.

“We’re connected by this single screwed up world.”

During the episode, we flash back to the past before Madison found the stadium and learn that she crossed paths with Al. While they initially start off not trusting each other, Madison eventually lets her guard down after aimlessly searching for a tape from one of her kids. Al talks to Madison about the truth and tells her how it can change things. She empathizes with Madison and explains that even though she didn’t find the story she was looking for, someone might be interested in her story one day. Madison explains that she broke her promise to her kids and that “you don’t need a camera cus it just sticks.” She tells a heartwarming story about her kids trying to help a wounded bird and nurse it back to health. They named the bird “Amina” for short and took care of her, giving her a chance when no one else would. Madison would open the box each day, fearing what she might find, but was shocked to see the bird flying around in their living room. Madison was so touched by the actions of her children who refused to give up on this bird that anyone else might have turned their back on. She explains that there is not a lot of that left in the world now and she never wants her kids to lose that. When Madison and Al part ways, Al gives her some Ramen noodles and tells her that maybe they will meet again. Later on, when Madison reunites with her kids at the motel, she reveals to them that someone helped her when they didn’t have to and that “It’s time for us to do the same.” Her interaction with Al inspires her to build the stadium into a place where others can go to find a sense of belonging, protection, and people who will stand by them. Madison’s words are absolutely beautiful and remind us that there is still good in the world. Even though she and Al were strangers, they ended up helping each other, reinforcing the belief that there are still good people existing in this world.

“June, well that’s my favorite month.”

When Naomi goes into the infirmary with Morgan, John is holding on by a thread. He asks Charlie to record him, but Al tries to get him to stay positive. John explains that “it’s for her,” as he speaks openly to Naomi on camera and tells her to stop running and to help Morgan do the same. Luckily, Naomi is able to stabilize John and it looks like he is going to be OK. Naomi tells John that her real name is June, finally wanting to tell him something real and meaningful. John’s reaction is beyond heartwarming when he tells her that June is his favorite month. June touches John’s hand and the spark between these two is burning brightly again, allowing us John Dorie fans to cheer. It looks like these two might get the chance they deserve after all, inspiring some hope in this distressing world. I am absolutely thrilled that John is going to be OK because his character elevates the show, opening up possibilities for a new chapter.

“I’m not that person anymore.”

When Alicia is in the tank, she spots the Ramen noodles and demands to know where Al got them. Everything clicks in her head when she frantically searches through the tapes and finds one titled, “Amina.” Alicia watches the recording of her mother, Madison, carefully listening to each and every word, displaying her grief across her face. Alicia still wants to take revenge on Naomi, however; and demands that Al convinces her to come out. Al strategically leaves on the walkie-talkie to warn Morgan and Naomi. Morgan offers to go first because he doesn’t want anything to happen to Naomi. When Alicia comes out, he stands in front of Naomi and she is shocked that is willing to give his life for a stranger. Alicia’s rage is almost uncontrollable now, as she points the gun at them and screams, “My Mom’s dead because of what you did!” Morgan doesn’t give up on Alicia and even when she says that she’s not that person anymore, Morgan tries to get her to realize that it’s not too late and that things can change. Morgan explains that they did for him and they still can for Alicia. He ultimately gets through to her when he tells her that they already have because he’s not dead. Alicia breaks down crying and the immediate threat is over, as she finally allows her emotions to break through. This moment is absolutely heartbreaking, as Alicia shows her own vulnerability. It’s shocking that she waited this long to cry, but her actions are understandable and I just hope that she can take comfort in knowing how much her family cared about her and how she still has the opportunity to become who she is meant to and to help others in need.

“It was never about the stadium. It was about the people. It was about us.”

Al asks Alicia what happened to her mother, as she made quite an impact on her as well and Alicia replies with, “You want the rest of my Mom’s story? Pull over.” All of the pieces finally come together, as we learn about the last moments for everyone in the stadium. Charlie explains that Mel saved her life and got her out of there in the car. Naomi reveals that she tried to talk everyone out of leaving, but they had already made up their minds. She explains that she was then surrounded by walkers and made a run for it, thinking that everyone was already dead. She was then later picked up by the Vultures, but it’s clear that Naomi was just trying to survive like everyone else. We learn that Victor got burned when he saved Alicia from running after her mother and then we finally learn the fate of Madison. Madison recognized that her friends and family were in danger and lured the walkers away from them with a flare, trusting that the walls would hold. No one else believed her and the other people died trying to escape, but Madison knew that she was right. Once she saw that her family would be able to get away safely, she tried to make it to the tunnels but was trapped with nowhere to go. As the walkers surrounded her, Madison threw the flare into the hoard and a bright glow reflected off her face before the explosion hit. Madison gave up her life so that her family and friends could live. After the story is recorded, Al labels this one “Madison,” reminding us that her story is never gone. Madison will live on through her family and her actions will hopefully inspire them to continue to try and do the right thing. We will need to wait until August 2018 for new episodes, but we have now lost two main characters and I’m interested to see where we are going now. While we know that new threats are always right around the corner, it will be interesting to see how the dynamic of the show shifts now that we are focusing on different characters and story-lines. I’m absolutely open to the change, but I will miss Madison, as Kim Dickens did a phenomenal job as the main protagonist on the show. RIP Madison. Stay tuned!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own theories and thoughts on Fear the Walking Dead in the comments section below. Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

Stay up to date on upcoming premieres of horror TV series @ 12nightsofhorror.com/horror-series-coming-soon

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

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Ranking the top 5 moments from “Fear the Walking Dead” season 4 episode 1: “Tell Me One Real Thing”

Happy Wednesday TV fans! I have to admit that Sunday television has got me playing catch-up, as some of my favorite shows happen to all air at once. After watching AMC’s The Walking Dead season finale, I had some mixed feelings, but there was a lot to wrap my head around. I finally got the chance to watch the season 4 premiere of AMC’s Fear the Walking Dead last night, however; and I have to say that the crossover event was a success to me. Although it had almost an eerie sense of quiet compared to the deafening chaos in The Walking Dead, it was something that truly resonated with me, as I found myself lost within the story and truly sympathizing with Morgan Jones. Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet. In last night’s episode, “What’s Your Story?” many of our fan-favorites from The Walking Dead show up and try to get Morgan to change his mind about leaving. However, Morgan feels that he needs to be alone and heads out on his own. This is short-lived however; when he crosses paths with a man in a cowboy hat named John Dorie and a female journalist named Al. My top 5 moments from Fear the Walking Dead season 4 episode 1 are:

“You can hide but you can’t run.”

When the season premiere begins, we focus in on Morgan who is still in the junkyard, closed off from society. This is interrupted over and over, however; when Jesus, Carol, and Rick all show up, desperately trying to get Morgan to change his mind about leaving. Morgan sticks to his decision and explains that he needs to be alone. Morgan has been struggling with inner-demons and is searching for a way to overcome this. He knows that he is a danger to those around him if he stays, but will he lose himself completely if he goes off on his own? His friends remind him that he cares about people and should be with them, but Morgan remains strong with his decision and steps out onto an open road, leaving his past behind him. We know that Rick’s words, “you can hide but you can’t run,” will catch up to him all too quickly, but Morgan continues on his journey all the same.

Meet John Dorie.

That’s Dory like the fish, but spelled with an “ie.” This new character is not from the comic series and is played by Deadwood star, Garret Dillahunt. The stranger in a cowboy hat proves to be quite the “gunslinger,” but seems to have a good heart and a strong sense of doing what’s right. He offers Morgan shelter and when Morgan takes off and gets into trouble, John Dorie is not far behind, proving that he can be a worthy ally. John Dorie shares his own story that he is searching for his wife who has his matching gun, which is heart-breaking and commendable at the same time. He refuses to give up hope and he seems to remind Morgan that human connections are all they have to cling to in this harsh reality filled with death and decay. The “karate man” and “gunslinger” prove to be quite the team, but will Morgan be able to truly open up after all he has been through?

Meet Al.

Shortly after the introduction of new character, John Dorie, we also meet Al who is a journalist played by the beautiful and talented, Maggie Grace. As a huge fan of Lost, I was more than pleased to see Maggie Grace step into a new and different role. Her hair is cut boy-short and she packs quite the punch with her van filled with handy weapons, but what sparked my interest the most is that she is out to discover everyone’s story. Morgan gently reminds her that there are no more news stations around and why does it matter, but Al’s need to continue the story anyway proves that she hasn’t given up hope either. She keeps her camera with her and documents everything she can, looking for something real to connect to.

“Tell me one real thing.”

After Morgan, John, and Al survive the attack from the armed men and walkers, Morgan is finally ready to open up, even if it is for just a moment. Al records him and asks him to tell her one real thing and explain why he left Virginia. Morgan explains, “I lose people and then I lose myself,” which touched my heart instantly. It’s hard not to feel sympathetic toward Morgan and understand his need to run away. Even though he was part of many settlements before, he still chooses to be on his own, desperately trying to hold on to his humanity. Perhaps being around people again will remind Morgan that he has the chance to truly do something great and make a difference.

“So what the hell’s your story?”

At the end of the episode, the three characters come across a woman who is sobbing in the middle of the road. They cautiously approach the woman, not knowing what to expect, but offer to help her. The woman is revealed to be Alicia who turns a gun on them and Nick, Luciana, and Victor appear as well to surround them. The crossover has officially well…crossed over and these characters are now all connected whether they want to be or not. While we are unclear on how Alicia, Nick, Luciana, and Victor all ended up together, since it seemed like everyone was separated at the end of last season, we have plenty of episodes to find out what they are up to and how they got here. Stay tuned!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own theories and comments on Fear the Walking Dead below. Thanks for reading and happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

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My top television shows of 2017 on Cable Networks: The best of the best!

Greetings TV Fans! For today, I am going to be listing my top favorite television shows that aired in 2017 on cable networks. While some shows near the top of my list were no surprise for me, there were others that crept into the top 5 that I would not have predicted last year. There were also some shows that I used to enjoy a lot which fell short this past year and are in need of something earth-shattering to happen in 2018 to get them back to the top of the pack. While I haven’t gotten a chance to view all shows that aired new episodes in 2017, I did get to more than I initially anticipated. Please feel free to include some of your favorites below as well. I will be breaking the shows into 3 categories: the best of the best, honorable mentions, and shows that have lost some steam. Please note some spoilers are ahead.

The Best of the Best for television shows airing on cable networks for 2017 in no particular order are:

Game of Thrones

Fear the Walking Dead

American Horror Story: Cult

SMILF

Shameless

While Game of Thrones and Shameless are two of my all-time favorites, I was pleased with the seasons airing in 2017. Game of Thrones sped things up to the delight of fans, which I guess makes sense since they are running out of time. Either way, it was great to see Daenerys and Jon Snow finally meet face to face and discuss terms of an alliance on a war against the undead. Everything is falling into place and I am eager to see the remaining episodes in 2018. Shameless is another favorite of mine that has had me laughing out loud this season. Even though the show is on its eight season, it is proving to still have fresh material. American Horror Story: Cult bounced back from American Horror Story: Roanoke from 2016. Cult was terrifying and real at the same time, providing viewers with a dangerous view of society. Evan Peters played his best character yet in my opinion, diving into his terrifying role of Kai Anderson. Newcomer SMILF is the perfect mix of raw humor and sentimental moments, as Frankie Shaw has had a stand-out performance. The most surprising one of the bunch for me is Fear the Walking Dead. I will be honest and admit that I had been previously watching the show out of obligation. It’s the prequel to The Walking Dead and in some way I felt like I owed the show a chance, even though I wasn’t too hooked. However, this all changed for me this past season in 2017. Alicia played by the lovely and talented Alycia Debnam Carey stepped out from her shadow as Madison’s daughter and has grown into an independent and powerful survivor. Main characters with interesting story-lines were killed off to the shock of fans everywhere; including myself, proving that the show is ready to take on a life of its own. Rick and the gang should take some notes from the characters in Fear the Walking Dead who are making difficult decisions and moving on to each new obstacle without too much fluff in between.

Honorable mentions for television shows airing on cable networks for 2017 in no particular order:

Homeland

Bates Motel

Better Call Saul

Pretty Little Liars

The Strain

It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia

South Park

Some of these shows are favorites of mine and did enough in 2017 to earn a spot in my honorable mentions. South Park and It’s Always Sunny kept the laughs coming and Homeland and Better Call Saul did the same with the edge of your seat drama and big moments. While the shows had solid episodes, there wasn’t enough of a hook to move them into my top 5. That being said, I thoroughly enjoy watching these shows and I am looking forward to new seasons. Bates Motel, Pretty Little Liars, and The Strain ended in 2017 on a strong note. While none of the series finales were that epic in my opinion, they did a good job of bringing everything full circle and satisfying the questions fans had.

Television shows airing on cable networks for 2017 that are running out of steam in no particular order are:

The Walking Dead

Archer

I have watched all of the episodes from both shows and was somewhat disappointed overall in the seasons from 2017. While neither show was terrible enough for me to take them off my DVR line-up permanently, there was something missing. Whether it was too much fluff in between major moments or a missing connection to characters, both shows have the potential to win their fans back and provide some good content. Are they going to deliver on this, however? I am optimistic and will continue to watch both series, but am looking for something fresh and over-the-top to remind me why I loved watching in the first place. I know it’s a lot to ask for, but consistency in television entertainment is important. Let’s make it a great 2018 for shows everywhere and hope these two shows ignite a spark that will keep viewers coming back for more and more.

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post some of your favorite television shows from 2017 that aired on cable networks below. Happy viewing and the countdown to 2018 is here!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

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