Spoiler-Free Review of “What We Do In The Shadows” FX Series Premiere: Fangtastically Funny

Happy Friday TV Fans!  The wait is over and What We Do In The Shadows is finally here!  The show is based on the film of the same name from 2014 and it is brought to us by Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement.  If you are not familiar with the movie, it is a mockumentary following a group of vampires living together in New Zealand.  FX was awesome enough to actually play the movie the day before the series premiered, which gave me time to re-watch it and enjoy the campy horror fun.  I mean, seriously there were so many bloody dishes to clean…

If you are a fan of the film, you will absolutely fall in love with the series as well, which now takes place in Staten Island, New York.  Love that!  Even if you have never seen the film before, you will enjoy the series, which is kind of like The Office if it followed vampires.  In the series, we follow a different group of vampires, but it is set in the same universe as the movie, which means a crossover is not out of the question.  Fingers crossed!  The series introduces us to Nandor, Laszlo, Nadja, and their human familiar, Guillermo.  However, my personal favorite was an energy sucking vampire named Colin, who can bore everyone to death with dull conversation starters, which is probably the funniest part of the show so far.

Overall, I thought that the series premiere had a lot of potential and provided us with some really funny moments, especially the grocery store scene, which was laugh out loud hilarious.  Not all of the jokes landed for me, but I had the same issue with the film, so I think it comes down to comedy preference, which is not necessarily a bad thing.  However, there is a void right now in horror comedies, as shows like Ash vs Evil Dead, Stan Against Evil, and Scream Queens have all been canceled.  I still don’t get why, but that means that there is definitely room for What We Do In The Shadows to provide us with some much needed horror comedy.  We will get 10 episodes of the first season and I’m looking forward to some bloody brilliant comedy for sure!

I hope you enjoyed the review and feel free to post your own thoughts on What We Do In The Shadows in the comments section below.  Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

**I am so excited to announce that my book, The Search for Alice, is now available!  If you enjoy dark fantasy, 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!

The Search for Alice is available here!

The Search for Alice Feb 2019

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

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

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Do you love horror series?  Of course you do!  Please also check out 12 Nights of Horror Series Coming Soon.  It’s your home for everything you need to know about new and returning horror television series including new trailers, premiere dates, reviews, recaps, and renewals! 

Ranking the top 5 Empowered TV Female Characters of 2018 who Save the Day: “Touch me again and you’re gonna need another wooden hand”

Summertime is typically known for reruns, but I am happy that some of my favorite shows premiered late enough in the year so that I can get in some quality time binge-watching.  As I look back on some of my favorite shows that released new episodes in 2018, I started to really think about how incredible it is to see so many empowered female TV characters emerging on a daily basis.  These women are strong, fearless, passionate, and loyal.

They stand out because they aren’t perfect.  They make mistakes just like everyone else, but they are able to turn things around and make the right call to save the people they care about the most.  For today’s list, I am looking at female characters that can kick some serious ass and save the day without compromising who they are in the process.  Please note that supernatural abilities need not apply, as I want to focus on female characters that do not have any special powers or gifts.  Please also note that some spoilers may be ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch any of the series mentioned below.  My top 5 Empowered TV Female Characters of 2018 are:

5

Claire Novak from Supernatural.

Claire 7 5 collage

“I saved Sam and Dean…WE saved Sam and Dean.”

If you haven’t caught up on Supernatural, Claire Novak is the daughter of Jimmy, who is Castiel’s vessel, and she is played by Kathryn Love Newton.  Claire has appeared several times on Supernatural and Jody Mills looks after her.  In 2018, fans got a look at the “Wayward Sisters” backdoor pilot and Claire has grown up to be quite the bad-ass.  She is comically referred to as “Biker Barbie,” which I have to admit is spot on, as she sports some serious leather and a tough attitude, but still has an element of sweetness to her.  In the backdoor pilot to “Wayward Sisters,” Sam and Dean are trapped in “The Bad Place,” and Claire works with Jody and the others to help save them.  She has fully embraced her identity as a hunter and proves to be quite resourceful.  It is absolutely fantastic to watch her take down her enemies and she is not afraid to improvise and even uses a flame thrower to really make an entrance.  While Claire initially tends to swing her fists first and ask questions later, she soon learns from Jody and from her own mistakes that this is not always the best plan.  When Sam and Dean are rescued, Claire finally realizes the importance of family and teamwork, proving that she has grown even further as a character that one can truly count on.

4

Al from Fear the Walking Dead.

Al 7 5 collage.jpg

“Cause I’m a chick with layers.”

If you haven’t caught up yet on Fear the Walking Dead, now is the time.  This season has introduced us to some really compelling characters like John Dorie, Morgan Jones, and Naomi/Laura/June.  Al, played by Maggie Grace, has truly captured my attention, however.  Al is focused completely on gathering the stories of others and she records them on camera so that she is able to keep the story going as long as she can.  Even though Al drives a tank, she initially stays on the sidelines and tries not to get herself too involved.  However, after John Dorie is shot, Morgan gets through to her and she realizes that she may need to put the camera down from time to time and help save the day.  Al is fully capable of taking care of herself and is extremely resourceful and knowledgeable.  When she makes the decision to help John and the others, she proves to be an asset.  Al can also kick some serious ass, as we see an epic fight between her and Alicia that will have you on the edge of your seat.  I’m looking forward to seeing further development of her character, but I am definitely seeing some real potential for a new heroine to emerge on the series.

3

Octavia Blake from The 100.

Octavia 7 5 collage

“You are Wonkru or you’re the enemy of Wonkru.”

The 100 is one of my absolute favorite shows on television right now and the female characters on the show really prove to be strong, intelligent, and valuable.  Characters like Clarke, Lexa, Raven, and Abby really elevate the show, but I have to admire Octavia Blake’s breakout in 2018.  Octavia, played by Marie Avgeropoulos, was known as “the girl under the floor,” always hiding behind her brother, Bellamy.  When Octavia meets her true love, Lincoln, she was able to tap into her potential and learn how to fight and stand up for herself.  After “Praimfaya,” struck the world, Octavia made the brave decision to allow all crews inside the bunker to save them, but this was no easy task to maintain.  In 2018, we see Octavia’s struggle to hold on to her power as “The Red Queen” or “Blodreina,” as each crew became agitated with the others and the reality set in that not everyone in the bunker would be able to survive.  Octavia was hesitant at first about being a leader, but fully embraced it after Jaha died, taking his words of wisdom to heart.  Octavia recognized that not everyone would agree with her decisions; but that they would all need to stand together in order to have a chance at survival.  In a heroic moment, Octavia begins fighting anyone who rebels and repeats, “You are Wonkru or you’re the enemy of Wonkru,” over and over again, until she finally makes her point.  Even though her decisions as a leader are somewhat questionable and perhaps no longer appropriate in their current situation, you can’t help but root for Octavia in this pivotal moment.  The girl under the floor is no more and a true queen has emerged.

2

Cheryl Blossom from Riverdale.

Cheryl 7 5 collage

“Untie her, you serpent hag!”

While there are many empowered female characters on Riverdale, Cheryl, played by Madelaine Petsch, showed the most promise for me in 2018.  We have seen Cheryl grow as a character and take on quite a lot.  While she may initially seem like an ice queen, Cheryl eventually learns to let her walls down and to open up to those around her.  Cheryl has a lot to deal with and her mother doesn’t make her life any easier.  When Cheryl begins confiding in Toni about how her mother stifled her feelings toward other girls, it starts to make a lot of sense why Cheryl kept everyone at a distance.  After Cheryl’s mother has her locked away in a mental institution, Toni and Veronica come to her rescue, but Cheryl refuses to be broken in this moment.  Cheryl rises from the ashes and stands up to her mother and I have to say it’s about time.  Cheryl’s growing feelings for Toni also help her realize the importance of love and loyalty.  When Penny kidnaps Toni, Cheryl heroically shows up with a red hood and her bow and arrow to save her “Cherie.”  One can’t help but cheer for her in this moment, as she is no longer a scared little girl.  Rather, she has blossomed into a fearless and sensational woman.  Cheryl continuously shows her courage, as she stands up to the adults around her and even takes on “The Black Hood.”  Look out world, here comes “Cheryl Bombshell.”

1

Kelly Maxwell from Ash vs Evil Dead.

Kelly 7 5

“It’s Gladiator time, bitch.”

So my number one pick for the most empowered TV female character of 2018 has to go to the beautiful and hilarious Kelly Maxwell, played by Dana DeLorenzo.   Kelly proves that you don’t need to be “The Chosen One” or “El Brujo Especial” in order to save the day.  Kelly is tough and loyal, proving to be a “ghost beater” for life.  After teaming up with Dalton from the “Knights of Sumeria,” Kelly makes the courageous decision to take on the villain, Ruby, all by herself with the Kandarian Dagger.  Ruby is pretty much the queen of hell and is almost indestructible, but Kelly actually puts up quite a fight against her.  You can’t help rooting for her in this moment and when Ruby stabs her with the Kandarian Dagger, she even tells her that she was her favorite.  I remember being shocked and heartbroken in this moment, but Kelly was able to survive in the world through the rift and is ultimately rescued by Pablo toward the end of the series.  In the series finale, Kelly reminds us why we love her so much.  She kicks some serious ass and begins screaming while shooting as many deadites as she can, proving that she is fully capable of saving the day.  When Ash ultimately goes to fight the big bad, he tells Kelly that she is the leader now and I have to agree with his choice.  Kelly is strong and fearless and refuses to compromise herself for anyone.  She’s not afraid to express her opinion and use as much colorful and foul language as possible to get her point across, but that’s why we adore her so much.  Kelly is someone you could genuinely see yourself being friends with.  She tells you the harsh truth whether you want to hear it or not, but she is there for you no matter what, which is something that makes her truly stand out as a good friend and an even better heroine.

I hope you enjoyed the list and please feel free to post your thoughts on some of your own favorite empowered TV Female Characters of 2018 in the comments section below.  Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

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! 

Ranking my top 5 Horror TV Shows: “Well good news I found a piece of pie with no blood on it. Anybody want a bite?”

Greetings TV Fans!  With all of the excitement centered on the release of the trailer for the upcoming Halloween film, I started to really think about some of my favorite horror films of all time and then I realized that there are quite a few TV shows that fit the bill as well.  Whether you enjoy campy horror, slasher suspense, or zombies galore, horror TV shows have been around for quite a while and still stand the test of time.  For today, I am going to be ranking my absolute favorite horror TV shows.  Please note that for this list I have decided not to include TV shows that overlap in fantasy, supernatural, and sci-fi.  For example, shows like Supernatural, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Charmed, and True Blood will not be included because I think they have so many other layers with elements of horror.  That being said, if you have read my blog before, you know that I am a huge fan of these shows, but I wanted the chance to let some other horror TV shows take the spotlight.   Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch any of the series below yet. My top 5 horror TV shows are:

5

Slasher

I recently got the chance to binge-watch the first two seasons of Slasher on Netflix and I have to say that the show pulled me in right away.  If you are a fan of slasher films like Scream, this is the show for you.  The first season centers around the character, Sarah who finds herself caught in the middle of a series of murders that are very similar to the murder of her own parents.  The opening episode is beyond terrifying featuring the killer, The Executioner, who will give you nightmares for sure.  The second season follows a completely different story-line and has more of an Agatha Christie type feel, as we learn about a group of friends who were responsible for killing a girl many years ago and try to put together the missing pieces when they later return.  Each season brings different elements to the table, but has a healthy dose of gore, mystery, and twists that are not that easy to guess, which is refreshing.

4

Scream Queens

I am a huge fan of campy horror and I thoroughly enjoy films like Shaun of the Dead, Tucker and Dale vs. Evil, The Evil Dead franchise, and The Cabin in the Woods.  I think there is something to be said about the perfect blend of horror and comedy that is just pure genius.  Even though Scream Queens only lasted two seasons, this show had me laughing out loud and screaming whenever the Red Devil made an appearance.  The show follows a sorority who is targeted by the killer, but I have to say that Niecy Nash playing the security guard, Denise is the absolute best part of the show.  While you may think you have seen a million movies like this before, Scream Queens really delivers and I was beyond disappointed when the show was cancelled.

3

Bates Motel

Have you ever wondered what turned Norman Bates into the infamous killer in Psycho?  Bates Motel gave us the chance to really dive into the dark and creepy world of Norman Bates.  The show is a prequel and we get a glimpse into Norman’s life as a teenager.  The acting on this show is outstanding and the characters really draw you in, as you almost feel sympathy for Norman as you see the events that lead to his breakdown.  The show has an eerie and mysterious feel, drawing the viewer in seamlessly.  While we don’t see as much blood and gore in this particular show, Norman’s actions are bone-chilling and beyond creepy, which scare us in an entirely different way.  When Norman dresses up as his mother, it’s scary how he is able to emulate her mannerisms and words to perfection.  While the show answers many questions from Psycho, it also does a great job of paving its own identity, causing you to be on the edge of your seat at all times, never knowing what to truly expect from the Bates family.

2

Ash vs Evil Dead

Ash vs Evil Dead is another show that is the epitome of campy horror.  Bruce Campbell is a genius and I have been a fan of the Evil Dead franchise for a long time.  The show gave fans the chance to fall in love with Ash Williams, or “Ashy Slashy,” all over again, accepting that the only person who can stand in the way of evil is not afraid to deliver a well thought out pun just before destroying a deadite in grotesque and creative ways.  The show also allows fans to get to know the Ghost Beaters, Kelly and Pablo, who team up with Ash against the she-devil, Ruby, played by the absolutely fabulous Lucy Lawless.  The show recently aired its series finale, but provided fans with three seasons of fun, gore, comedy, and great music.  You are seriously missing out if you do not check this show out.  “Groovy.”   

Some honorable mentions before revealing my number one pick are:

  • Scream
  • It
  • Are You Afraid of the Dark?
  • Twin Peaks
  • The Twilight Zone
  • Goosebumps
  • The Strain
  • Hannibal
  • The Walking Dead franchise

1

American Horror Story

It should be no surprise that my favorite horror TV show is FX’s American Horror Story.  The show is created by Ryan Murphy and does an amazing job of covering every element of horror.  Each season features a different premise with a new type of evil never lurking too far away.  While each season is unique in its own way, my absolute favorites are Coven, Hotel, and Murder House.  The show is not afraid to test boundaries and will have you on the edge of your seat the entire time.  There have been some moments on the show that have been so frightening that I was not able to sleep without seeing Twisty the Clown appear in my nightmares.  The show does a great job of bringing one’s fears to the surface, but it also really looks into the darkness that exists within society as well, which really elevates the show.  The most recent season focused on a cult, proving that humanity can be just as capable of performing evil as spirits and vampires.  I was also very intrigued by the comparison of each season to a circle of hell from Dante’s Inferno Dante’s journey through each circle exposes him to different types of sin and evil that exist in the world and within society, which adds even more complexity to American Horror Story.  I am beyond excited to see what the next season brings and what sins it will explore next.

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to share some of your own thoughts and comments on your favorite horror TV shows. 

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

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Ranking the top 5 moments from “Ash vs Evil Dead” season 3 episode 10 Series Finale: “The Mettle of Man”

Happy Monday TV fans!  After watching Starz’s Ash vs Evil Dead season 3 episode 10 series finale last night, there is something bitter sweet about the end of one the most brilliant and entertaining shows on television.  While the series may be over, the many adventures of Ash, Kelly, Pablo, and Brandy will always remain “groovy” for us fans.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet.  In last night’s episode, “The Mettle of Man,” Ash has doubts about accepting his destiny, but receives a motivational speech from his loving daughter, Brandy.  Meanwhile, Pablo goes into the rift to save Kelly and the military arrives, as evil spreads all over the world.  My top 5 moments from the Ash vs Evil Dead season 3 episode 10 series finale are:

5

“You taught me to believe in you and I do.”

In the beginning of the episode, we learn that Kandar the Destroyer has been unleashed on the world to test the “Mettle of Man.”  While Pablo tries to explain that “it’s the final test Jefe,” Ash is having some doubts about his role in all of this.  Brandy refuses to let Ash take a seat on the sidelines and I have to say that Brandy has transformed into quite the bad-ass at the end of the series, refusing to let anyone get in her way.  After all, she is a Williams, just like Ash.  Brandy motivates Ash and tells him, “I don’t know much about this evil dead crap…you’re the savior of humanity so get on your damn feet and own up to who you are.  You taught me to believe in you and I do so please don’t let me down now.”  Even though we have witnessed Brandy kicking some serious deadite ass, this speech to Ash is what truly makes her stand out and is the inspiration that Ash needs to go after Kandar.  Well right after he gets “baked” of course.  In a heart-warming gesture, Ash gives Brandy the necklace he has been carrying around with him since the beginning, passing on his legacy to her, which is beautiful and genuine.  While Brandy tells him that they are in this together, Ash intends on protecting her no matter what.  It looks like Ash finally got the hang of this fatherhood thing after all.

4

Pablo goes through the rift to save Kelly.

Pablo is still being shielded from evil, as they think he is one of them because he is “El Brujo Especial.”  Ash is amused by this and comments that he is just like Kane the wrestler.  Pablo realizes that since the rift is open, he can go in himself and be alright because of his new abilities.  Ash trusts him and Pablo takes the plunge.  He quickly jumps out, but is heartbroken when Kelly doesn’t wake up.  After a few nail-biting moments, Kelly wakes up and Pablo kisses her passionately, causing fans everywhere to cheer.  It’s about time you two!  Kelly keeps her sense of humor alive when she sees her reflection and says, “I look like Keith Richards.”  Whether she is ghostly pale or not, Kelly still looks fabulous and is ready to unleash her fury on the deadites.  Welcome back to the land of the living Kelly!

3

“I’m not running from this one.”

After the Ghost Beaters begin fighting off evil with the military, they jump in a van to get to safety.  Ash comes to the realization that this is the moment where he needs to say goodbye and go at it alone.  He tells Kelly to be the leader now and says, “Pablo, you’re the Jefe now.”  Brandy is begging him not to leave her but he reminds her, “Brandy, I’m doing this for you.”  Ash finally accepts his destiny as “The Savior” and turns to face Kandar, leaving his friends and family behind to protect them.

2

“Ok big boy.  Ashley J. Williams is coming for you!”

Ash quickly makes the decision to jump in one of the military tanks to take on Kandar and comments, “Just like Battle Zone the arcade game.”  After all, how hard could it be to operate a tank?  Ash gets creative with his attack and is locked and loaded with the Kandarian Dagger, using duct tape for good measure.  While I’m not sure this could ever work, we cheer on Ash just the same, hoping that he will be able to take down evil and make it back to his friends.  Ash fires away and takes Kandar down, but not before he lands on top of the tank with Ash still inside.

1

“It’s all gone…”

After the tank is crushed, Ash is dragged away and we see the blurred image of a Knights of Sumeria ring.  Ash is put into some type of chamber and wakes up with white sprinkled through his hair and an upgraded hand, suggesting that he has been asleep for quite some time and is now in a futuristic world.  Ash is greeted by some type of female android who refers to him as “The Savior” and tells him they need to get moving.  After revealing Ash’s beloved car with some upgrades of its own, he begins asking about where Brandy is.  The android explains that she’ll explain on the way and when she asks Ash how he feels, he gives fans a response we can all be satisfied with when he simply says, “Groovy.”  While there are still a lot of questions unanswered about what happened to the world and how far into the future they are, one thing is for certain.  Ash is still alive and kicking and is ready to take on evil once again.  After all, Ash is a “Ghost Beater for life” and so are we.  While the series ends open enough to perhaps take on another movie one day, fans can take comfort in knowing that Ash is still fighting the good fight with his humor intact.

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own theories and thoughts on Ash vs Evil Dead in the comments section below.  Happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

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Ranking the top 5 moments from “Ash vs Evil Dead” season 3 episode 9: “Judgement Day”

Happy Monday TV fans!  After watching Starz’s Ash vs Evil Dead season 3 episode 9 last night, we are getting extremely close to the finish line.  Starz recently announced that this season will be the last for Ash vs Evil dead which means anything goes.  Main characters can die, the world can collapse, and “boomstick” could be left behind.  That being said, this episode is filled with shocking moments so who knows what we can expect in the series finale next week.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet.  In last night’s episode, “Judgement Day,” Ash goes after Ruby to end this once and for all, Zoe suffers an unsightly end, and the Dark Ones arrive in Elk Grove.  Meanwhile, Pablo’s powers advance and Brandy gets an incoming call from her dead mother.  My top 5 moments from Ash vs Evil Dead season 3 episode 9 are:

5

The Dark Ones arrive.

In the beginning of the episode, poor Zoe is tortured while Ruby cuts off her skin to make a new page for the Book of the Dead.  Kaya gauges out her eyes and kills her once they get what they want, but they’ll get what they deserve later on.  You know Karma and all that.  Meanwhile, the Dark Ones have already arrived and come through the rift, so it looks like Ruby is out of time.  The Dark Ones are cloaked shadowy figures, sort of resembling the “Dementors” from Harry Potter.  They begin wreaking havoc on Elk Grove, spreading evil everywhere they go.  While the town declares Martial Law, it’s unlikely that anyone will be able to stop this threat except for the prophesied one.

4

“I’m coming for you Ruby.  Time to die.”

Ash gives Pablo and his daughter, Brandy a pep talk and then heads out to Ms. Prevett’s home to destroy Ruby once and for all.  Even though we have heard this speech from Ash numerous times before, we are rooting for him all the same.  Ash begins pounding beers on the ride over to psych himself up, not realizing that the town is currently under attack.  When he comes face to face with Ruby, he demands that she release Kelly’s body so that he can save his friend.  After all, “who the fuck is Kaya?”  Ash demands that she evict her so that he can have the “no vacancy” sign removed for Kelly once she comes through the rift.  It’s actually a spot on analogy if you think about it.  Ash and Ruby face off and Ruby even destroys his beloved chainsaw right before his eyes, but no one is ready for what comes next.

3

“I’m Ashy Slashy’s daughter!”

Poor Brandy is left alone in Ash’s home but he makes sure to leave her with his trusty weapon, “boomstick.”  She tries to thank him and ends up vomiting on him as a side effect from coming back from the dead, but Ash is OK with this.  After all, he loves his daughter and is happy to have her back safe and sound.  Once the Dark Ones arrive, evil is around pretty much every corner, putting Brandy in immediate danger.  Brandy proves to be quite resourceful and tries to escape the evil.  This is no easy task, however; as she begins to get incoming calls and unwanted voicemails from her dead mother.  Brandy tells herself it is not real and stays strong.  She cuts off part of her thumb and for a moment, sees herself cutting off her own hand to truly become Ash Williams’s daughter, but it is only a hallucination.  With her hand intact, Brandy destroys the evil and reminds it who she is.  Our little Brandy has grown up so fast and has embraced her true calling.  Go Brandy!

2

“I don’t get a manual with being El Brujo Especial.”

Pablo begins getting more intense visions that literally blind him while they occur, as he can actually see into Ruby’s place through the eyes of the Necronomicon.  He quickly realizes that poor Zoe is dead and that Ruby is trying to find the rift.  Pablo gets down to the rift, but the Dark Ones have already come through it.  They obtain the lost pages, but evil suddenly has no interest in Pablo.  It’s like his new powers have cloaked him from them, allowing him to sneak through town undetected.  Pablo explains to Ash that if the lost pages are reunited with the Necronomicon, all hell will break loose and there may be no stopping it.  Pablo’s powers are advancing quickly, but will he be able to help Ash stop this threat?

1

“Poor Ruby.  I’m melting.  Fuck off bitch.”

After Ruby destroys Ash’s chainsaw, it seems like he may not be winning this battle.  However, the Dark Ones interrupt before their fight can go any further.  The Dark Ones eject Kaya from Kelly’s body and burn her alive.  While this is happening, Ash grabs Kelly’s body and the book and sneaks out of there.  Ash doesn’t shed any tears when Ruby is killed by the Dark Ones, but it’s clear that their powers are far greater than anything we have seen before.  Either way, so long Ruby.  You were a worthy opponent for sure.  Ash heads to the hardware store to meet up with Brandy and Pablo.  The Dark Ones obtain the book and connect it with the lost pages and open up the ground.  An overwhelmingly large monster begins to surface and it looks like the final battle has finally come.  Who will win the battle?  Will the Ghost Beaters be able to save Kelly?  Who will survive?  Stay tuned for the series finale next week! 

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own theories and thoughts on Ash vs Evil Dead in the comments section below.  Happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Ash vs Evil Dead” season 3 episode 8: “Ghost Beaters Never Leave a Man Behind”

Happy Monday TV fans!  After watching Starz’s Ash vs Evil Dead season 3 episode 8 last night, I felt a familiar shudder, bringing back old nightmares from the 2009 film “Drag Me to Hell,” which happens to be directed by the wonderful, Sam Raimi.  I wonder if he was on the same page here too because I was just as equally frightened by the demon in the rift, refusing to let any soul escape unclaimed.  Too bad Ash is not playing by its rules.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet.  In last night’s episode, “Rifting Apart,” Ash and Pablo work together to open the rift, Brandy runs into an old friend, and Kaya brings Ruby something or someone that can potentially change their destiny.  My top 5 moments from Ash vs Evil Dead season 3 episode 8 are:

5

“Just like old times.”

Ash refuses to sit around and feel sorry for himself after his daughter is stabbed in front of him.  Pablo and him decide to work together to make things right.  Ash lets Pablo know that “to save those two I would submit to a prostate exam,” which proves he means business.  After all, he was just reunited with his daughter and Kelly is like family as well.  Pablo and Ash steal Brandy’s body from the coroner, as they need to make sure she is intact when her spirit comes back through the rift.  Only, perhaps they should have checked the body bag next to her as well.  When they get to the cellar, Pablo and Ash look at each other, expecting the other one to have a plan.  After all, Pablo is “Cuervo Especial,” according to Ash.  After politely reminding him that he is “El Brujo Especial,” Pablo thinks that Ash will need to stab himself with the Kandarian dagger in order to get to Brandy and Kelly.  Seems like it makes sense, but Ash can’t do it.  The two decide to work together to stab Ash on the count of 3, only Ash throws in 2 and a half, which throws off the count.  “Was that 3?”  Ash wakes up in the rift and is off to find Brandy, depending on Pablo to be there to open the rift once they are ready.

4

Kaya brings Ruby a present.

Even though we don’t see Ruby for most of the episode, we know that she is off plotting somewhere.  Kaya decides to take matters into her own hands and captures Zoe, one of the Knights of Sumeria.  When Ruby discovers that she can speak Latin, she is more than pleased, as she realizes that Zoe may be the key to their victory.  She ominously tells her that “you’re going to help us re-write our destiny.”  Of course that only leaves us with more questions, but we will need to stay tuned to find out.

3

Pablo vs a deadite.

After one of the deceased high school students wakes up in the body bag next to Brandy’s, she is not about to let an opportunity go by without attacking Pablo.  Pablo needs to be at the rift to help open it for Ash, but gets distracted when he has to defend himself in the hardware store.  After strategically using his surroundings to his advantage, Pablo is able to defeat the deadite who was mocking his new title.  In victory, he reminds her and everyone who is watching that “It’s Brujo Especial…bitch!” 

2

“Save Kelly and your daughter Ash Williams.”

Brandy is frightened when she wakes up in the rift and is running from the beyond creepy demon.  After witnessing one of her classmates dragged beneath the surface, she is rescued by a familiar face.  Dalton shows up and the two run toward the abandoned “Cinema,” where they meet up with Kelly.  While they are unsure about what to do next, they are not going to go down without a fight.  After Ash arrives, the mission is to get to the opening of the rift, but this will not be so easy.  Dalton is aware of the stakes and distracts the demon so that Ash can get Kelly and Brandy to their destination.  Dalton tells Ash that he only asks that he tell Ruby that he’ll be waiting for her in hell.  He passionately kisses Kelly and rushes off to carry out his mission.  After successfully distracting the monster, Dalton sacrifices himself and is brutally dragged to hell, but his good deed gave Ash the time he needed to turn his “idea of a plan” into an actual plan.

1

“Ghost beaters never leave a man behind.”

Ash explains that he is not about to let evil mess with his family.  After Dalton’s sacrifice, Ash, Brandy, and Kelly take cover in Ash’s car.  Kelly explains that nothing works in the rift, but Ash is able to get “baby” started.  After all, “Evil is not the boss of us.  Buckle up!”  The other souls stuck in the rift are more than pleased to see Ash run over the demon, as the three head to their destination.  Pablo is able to open the rift in the nick of time, but only Brandy and Ash can go through.  Something is preventing Kelly from passing through, which we know is Kaya occupying her body.  The rift closes, but Ash refuses to leave her behind.  At least Brandy and Ash are alive and well, but the threat is not even close to being over.

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and comments on Ash vs Evil Dead below.  Happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

 

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Ash vs Evil Dead” season 3 episode 7: “Ding Dong…you’re dead”

Happy Monday TV fans!  After watching Starz’s Ash vs Evil Dead season 3 episode 7 last night, I’m wondering why the Elk Grove police department has not instated some type of curfew yet.  After all, two local people are dead and a lot of weird things continue to happen, but I guess the best thing for everyone to do is to gather all in one place at the school dance.  Seriously I don’t know what this town would do without Ashy Slashy.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet.  In last night’s episode, “Twist and Shout,” Brandy puts on her sequins and heads to the school dance with some chaperones, Pablo sees an unexpected guest in the rift, and Ruby tries to steal the show.  My top 5 moments from Ash vs Evil Dead season 3 episode 7 are:

5

“I’m not sure this is the time to be playing Barbie dress up.”

And you know what…Ash has got a valid point.  Not to say that I want to take away Brandy’s chance to shine on the dance floor, especially since she is wearing her mother’s favorite dress, but it seems like this is just bringing evil exactly what it wants.  Brandy explains that this is her chance to lure Ms. Prevett out in the open and to finally see her for what she truly is.  Ash accepts but is clearly hesitant about this plan, explaining that “from now on you’re rubber and we’re glue.”  After all, “that’s what super cool dads do right?”

4

Ruby takes her plan to the next level.

Ruby’s new and improved demon Ash is born or hatched?  Not sure which is really correct, but either way this identical version of Ash calls her “mother.”  Ruby explains that his role is to make Brandy truly believe he is her father.  This includes cutting off his own arm so that all of the details are just right.  Talk about commitment.  Ruby tells Brandy that her father, Ash is a demon and tries to get her to turn on him.  If Brandy kills her own father, Ruby’s heir will become the true prophesied one and then she will be able to pretty much bring all hell to earth…literally.

3

“The real Kelly and I did kiss and it was freakin awesome!”

While Pablo is still in the cellar at the hardware store, he hears a voice calling his name through the rift.  Pablo is shocked to see Kelly trapped inside and she tries to explain that she must be dead.  Pablo is clearly heart-broken by this news but recognizes that Kelly’s soul is in immediate danger and knows that it is his responsibility to do something to help her.  When Pablo arrives at the school dance, he is even more confused to see Kelly there alive and well.  Only, he begins to see through this impossibility and tests her by claiming they never shared a kiss.  When Kaya fails the test miserably, Pablo lets her know that the kiss they shared was “freakin awesome” and the two begin attacking each other.  Pablo cannot kill the vessel and escapes in just the nick of time, but it’s clear these two are not done just yet.

2

“There’s a very handsome but demented version of me running around here.”

Ash is shocked when he sees the demon version of himself running around the school hallway, leaving a pile of messy dead bodies behind him.  It is clear that Ash is being framed for this, but he is not about to let Ruby’s plan be a success.  Ash says, “I’m going to save my daughter.”  When he comes face to face with Brandy, she is beyond angry and waves the dagger around to show that she is not messing around.  Ash tries to explain that “it wasn’t me…it was the other me,” which isn’t as convincing as it sounds.  Ash fights off the demon version of him, explaining that “Ruby went to Kandarian Kinkos and this asshole popped out.”  After destroying the demon, he looks to Brandy, hoping that she will believe him.

1

“You were right.”

Brandy has flashes about her recent memories with her father and she cannot end his life, ruining Ruby’s plan.  After the demon Ash is eliminated, Brandy sees Ruby for what she truly is and says, “you were right.”  Ruby’s anger comes screeching to the surface and she throws the Kandarian dagger at Ash, only Brandy jumps in front of it to save him.  Brandy dies in Ash’s arms, breaking his heart completely and it seems like all hope is lost.  Or is it?  Brandy wakes up in the rift and sees the same monster that seemed to be after Kelly.  After watching the preview from next week, it appears that Ash and Pablo are ready to go into the rift to save them.  While it seems like the first step is to save their souls, is it possible that Brandy and Kelly can be brought back to life?  I’m hoping so because it seems like our favorite characters are dropping like flies.  Stay tuned to find out!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and comments on Ash vs Evil Dead below.  Happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

 

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Ash vs Evil Dead” season 3 episode 6: “Tales From the Rift”

Happy Monday TV fans!  After watching Starz’s Ash vs Evil Dead season 3 episode 6 last night, I think it’s important that you never judge a book from its cover.  That is unless we are talking about “The Book of the Dead,” which contains the most unimaginable evil, including evil sorceresses who should really just stay put.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet.  In last night’s episode, “Tales From the Rift,” Kelly sees her mission through and brings the fight to Ruby, refusing to give up until she destroys her once and for all.  Meanwhile, Ash is visited by the Knights of Sumeria, Pablo begins tapping into his powers as “El Brujo Especial,” and the rift opens, which proves to be extremely dangerous.   My top 5 moments from Ash vs Evil Dead season 3 episode 6 are:

5

“Like daughter, like Dad.”

After last week’s episode, Brandy makes the brave decision to trust her heart and her father in the process.  Brandy is surprisingly handling everything thrown her way pretty well so far and continues to grow closer to her dad, Ash.  She even makes him breakfast, which consists of actually toasting a pop tart, but Ash is beyond impressed.  Brandy is still not able to truly believe that Ms. Prevett, otherwise known as Ruby, is evil, however.  Ash continues to try and make her see it, but it looks like she will need to witness the Queen of Hell in action in order to fully understand it.  Either way, it’s good to see Brandy and Ash finally growing closer and bonding.

4

The Knights of Sumeria show up on Ash’s doorstep.

A group of the Knights of Sumeria shows up when they don’t hear back from Dalton.  They claim they can stop evil for good, which seems promising.  Ash is skeptical of this but is more than willing to give it a shot, especially since he has a daughter to protect.  They head off to the hardware store to find the body of Gary, who left them clues on the wall in Sumerian.  They believe that Gary had figured out a way to open the rift to the Netherworld and believe that could be the key to triggering the final battle.

3

“I think these guys flunked Sumerian 101.”

After determining that opening the rift could be the key to stopping evil, the group of Knights is determined to figure this out.  However, they are having a little bit of trouble reading the Sumerian on the wall.  When Pablo arrives at the store, he can surprisingly decode the text and opens the rift as a result.  The rift proves to be quite dangerous as one of the Knights goes through and returns as a deadite.  Ash is able to stop the threat, but it’s important that they figure out a way to close the rift in the meantime before anything else happens.

2

“I got a bad feeling about this.”

After Pablo became “El Brujo Especial,” his powers are now surfacing, surprising him and those around him.  He gets a sort of vision and realizes that Ash is in trouble at the hardware store.  After he arrives, his powers allow him to translate the Sumerian and open the rift, which the Knights of Sumeria explained was a task that was not so easily done.  After Ash manages to destroy the deadite, he tells Pablo that he needs to figure out a way to close the rift for good.  While Pablo’s abilities seem to be quite powerful, he will need to get a handle on them very quickly so that he can help Ash with the fight against evil.

1

“Don’t start a fight you can’t finish.”

Kelly makes good on her promise to stop Ruby and attacks her in her home.  She shoots her over and over, but Ruby tries to playfully remind her that she’s immortal.  Kelly reveals that she has the Kandarian Dagger and puts her best effort forward to try and stop Ruby once and for all.  She warns her that, “It’s Gladiator time, bitch,” and she means business.  Kelly’s fight against Ruby is commendable.  Even though she is mortal, she packs quite the punch and refuses to let Ruby escape.  While fans everywhere are rooting for Kelly, it seems unlikely that she will be able to finish the job.  Ruby turns the tables on her and uses the Kandarian Dagger to stab Kelly.  As her life pours out of her, Ruby tells her, “I hated you least of all Kelly.”  While characters don’t typically last too long on Ash vs Evil Dead, Kelly Maxwell has touched us all and is an irreplaceable member of the Ghost Beaters.  The important thing to remember is that dead doesn’t stay dead for very long on this show.  Ruby conveniently uses Kelly’s body as a vessel and allows her sorceress friend, Kaya to settle in there, freeing her from “The Book of the Dead.”  When Kaya sees Ash later on, she delivers him the dagger, continuing to pretend to be Kelly in the meantime.  While it breaks my heart to see Kelly’s mortal life over, I’m hoping that somehow Pablo’s new powers can bring her back from the dead and swap her soul with Kaya’s.  While it may seem far-fetched, the show desperately needs Kelly’s kick-ass attitude and commitment to bringing down evil.  The idea of Kelly being gone forever is heart-breaking.  My fingers are crossed that there is some kind of loop hole to help bring her back.  However, in the meantime, now that we know that Kaya is free, what is she capable of?  Will she and Ruby become an unstoppable force?  Stay tuned to find out!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and comments on Ash vs Evil Dead below.  Happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Ash vs Evil Dead” season 3 episode 5: “El Brujo Especial”

Happy Monday TV fans!  After watching Starz’s Ash vs Evil Dead season 3 episode 5 last night, I think it’s sometimes necessary to find your destiny by closing your eyes and trusting your instincts.  Although this decision seems pretty important when it involves ensuring you choose good over evil with no do-overs.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet.  In last night’s episode, “Baby Proof,” Kelly and Brandy continue to get attacked by demon Pablo, which causes Pablo’s spirit to enter into another realm.  Meanwhile, Ash makes the connection that the evil baby is his son and tries to give him a time out that ends in one of them being stuffed into a trunk.  My top 5 moments from Ash vs Evil Dead season 3 episode 5 are:

5

“Don’t make me get my leg waxed.” 

Kelly and Brandy are still under attack from demon Pablo and Kelly quickly learns that the miniature Pablo torturing her wound is connected to the demon Pablo.  She strategically uses fire to severely hurt Pablo and screams out “hot tamale!”  While it seems like this can hold him off temporarily, Brandy takes matters into her own hands when she stabs Pablo to Kelly’s horror.  While Pablo does not die, Kelly does not want to face a world without him.  At the end of the episode, Kelly says that she is “done being fucked with,” and decides to go after Ruby herself.  While Kelly is not one to be messed with, is she any match for Ruby?

4

“You keep your hands off of my boomstick.”

In case you are not familiar, the “boomstick” is Ash’s shotgun which he has used in Evil Dead, Evil Dead 2, and Army of Darkness.  It rarely leaves Ash’s side and when Heidi attempts to use it to attack the demon baby, Ash has to put her in check.  She clearly does not understand the history and sentimental value of this weapon, but we sure do!

3

Pablo becomes “El Brujo Especial.”

After Brandy stabs Pablo, Pablo’s spirit wakes up in a void between realms and he comes face to face with the naked lady who we now know is named Maritza, along with his dead uncle.  Pablo has brought the Kandarian dagger and his uncle explains that he can now become “El Brujo Especial,” which Pablo innocently confuses with the name of a beer.  The task is not an easy one, however; as Pablo must choose between darkness and light.  Pablo trusts his instincts and says he’s got this and successfully chooses the right path.  When he wakes up, Kelly is so happy to see him and kisses him, which leads to a very interesting reaction on Pablo’s part, “where’s Ash?”  Pablo has embraced his new destiny and knows that he needs to help Ash with his fight against evil.  It’s great to have Pablo back, but what powers and responsibilities come along with being “El Brujo Especial?”  We’ll have to stay tuned to find out, but perhaps Ruby is not the most powerful one of all anymore.

2

“Here I come!”

After seeing that the baby demon has a miniature chainsaw arm, Ash quickly puts two and two together and realizes that this must be his son.  “That’s a little me!”  While the baby demon has got the smiling and giggling down pat, his idea of fun and games is a little bit more than Ash can handle.  Each time the baby yells out “Here I come,” a duck toy with a beyond creepy laugh almost surrounds them.  As a side note, I’m still having nightmares about this duck.  In a panic, Heidi destroys the ducky toy which was a big mistake, causing her to lose her life and her head…not sure where that went.  The baby demon takes things to the next level by playing a game of hide and seek like no other, as he literally crawls into the body of dead Heidi using different body orifices, which will have your skin crawling.  Ash tries to tell him that he is “way too young to be going up there” but the baby demon refuses to listen, leaving Ash with only one choice:  to utilize a bowling ball to plug up one orifice to trap “Tiny Tim” there until he can get to the bottom of this.

1

Brandy makes the right decision.

After surviving the attack from demon Pablo, Brandy is still not sure what to believe.  Ash and Ruby both show up trying to get her to come with them and even after Ash reveals that he has the baby demon, which now looks like an ordinary baby, locked up in his trunk, she makes the right call.  Brandy trusts her gut and goes with Ash.  Ash is more than pleased and says, “This is the first time you ever called me Dad,” which at least gives him hope and a future with one of his children.  Now that Brandy has chosen her father over Ruby, will she be in even more danger?  While it seems likely, it looks like Ash is building up quite the miniature army against Ruby, but will it be enough to stop her for good?

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and comments on Ash vs Evil Dead below.  Happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

 

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Ash vs Evil Dead” season 3 episode 4: No Boys Allowed

Happy Monday TV fans!  After watching Starz’s Ash vs Evil Dead season 3 episode 4 last night, I think it’s about time that Brandy bonded with someone other than Ash, her dead grandpa, or the queen of hell.  After all, this poor girl needs a break.  While Kelly is an excellent choice for this, it’s clear that they will not be braiding each other’s hair anytime soon.  Rather, they will need to team up to keep the forces of evil from ripping them to shreds.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet.  In last night’s episode, “Unfinished Business,” Ash’s dad returns from the dead…again, but this time there are some good intentions behind it.  Meanwhile, Kelly and Brandy get attacked by a demon Pablo, Ruby learns that the Knights of Sumeria have surfaced again, and Ash finds out about the lost pages from “The Book of the Dead” before stumbling upon an unexpected bundle of…well maybe not joy.  My top 5 moments from Ash vs Evil Dead season 3 episode 4 are:

5

Ash’s dad is back…again.

After using his chainsaw to rip his already dead dad to pieces in front of poor Brandy, Ash’s dad returns again, but this time as a ghost.  Ash is more tolerable this time since the ghost is not influenced by Ruby and tells his dad “it’s nice to see you even though I’m looking through you.”  Ash’s dad always wanted to be a ghost and it looks like his dream has finally come true.  He reveals that he has returned to show Ash something important and proceeds to take him on a journey to his past memories.  Ash seems confused at first and his dad comically asks, “haven’t you seen It’s a Wonderful Life?”  While the memory reveals that his dad had the best intentions to protect Ash from harm, it shows him something even more important:  a Knight of Sumeria who possessed the lost pages of “The Book of the Dead,” which could be the key to Ash destroying all evil.

4

Ruby tries to get Dalton to talk.

Ruby is not pleased to learn that the Knights of Sumeria have re-surfaced and immediately recognizes the threat that they could bring.  She tracks down Dalton who is a deadite now and temporarily pushes away the evil so that she can get information from him.  Ruby demands to know where the rift is that contains the lost pages, but Dalton is not about to betray his calling or his friends.  He lets her know that they have the Kandarian dagger and will use it against her, right before blowing off his own head in a valiant, but really gruesome way to protect his friends.  Farewell new guy. 

3

“If you’re a deadite I’m in no fucking mood.”

Kelly proves once again why she is so bad-ass and amazing when she comes across Brandy, who is in desperate need of some female guidance.  After Brandy begins to whine about everything that has happened, Kelly cuts her off and says “hold up Daria.”  Kelly provides Brandy with a much needed reality check and tries to set her straight on Ash and Ruby.  While Kelly is a little rough around the edges at first, she does confide in Brandy about her own loss and tries to help her through it.  Unfortunately their female bonding is cut short when a demon Pablo jumps on the truck to attack them.  What’s the perfect background music for this violent attack?  You guessed it…Air Supply’s “All Out Of Love,” which really sets the mood for some serious ass-kicking.  Brandy and Kelly lock themselves up in Ash’s trailer, but Pablo continues to try and get in to retrieve the Kandarian dagger.  Pablo will stop at nothing to get in, which includes trying to wedge his way through Kelly’s open gash on her leg.  Talk about thinking outside of the box.

2

Ash learns about the lost pages from “The Book of the Dead.”

After re-visiting the past with his ghost dad, Ash decides that they need to return to the hardware cellar in present time to see if the lost pages are still there.  They discover a corpse that has been down there for way too long surrounded by empty cans of spam.  Ash’s ghost dad seems displeased by this, but Ash tries to remind him that the Knight of Sumeria was literally trying to survive since his dad locked him in a basement.  Ash comes across some type of hidden portal or rift in the wall and even sees Brandy’s friend Rachel.  While Ash desperately tries to put the pieces together, he gets attacked through the rift and has to put his chainsaw to work.  Ash’s dad has served his purpose and somewhat attempts to have a heart-to-heart moment with his son when he tells him that he will be a good father.  However, this moment is short-lived when Ash questions it and he admits “well not really.”  Either way, it appears that his dad has proven to be quite helpful, revealing the lost pages to Ash that could ultimately save the day.

1

Ash comes face to face with his demon offspring.

Ash tries to bring the fight right to Ruby and is surprised to find a woman chained up singing a lullaby in overwhelming fear.  Ash comes face to face with his demon offspring, although he doesn’t realize this just yet.  The woman begins to freak out and Ash tries to calm her down by telling her that he’s just sucking his thumb.  He quickly realizes that he is sucking someone else’s thumb and says, “ok that’s a choking hazard.”  Ash tries to get the woman out of there and tells her that he’s dealt with kids like this before just as the demon baby opens his mouth full of razor sharp teeth and the lights go out.  Even Ash is out of ideas here when he asks “what’s Norway for up shit creek?”  Will Ash be able to escape unharmed?  Is there still hope for Pablo?  Stay tuned for some more Ashy Slashy fun!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and comments on Ash vs Evil Dead below.  Happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl