Spoiler-Free Review of “Freaky” on demand: The Slasher Version of “The Hot Chick” is lots of fun

**This is a spoiler-free review so feel free to read on!**

“Having balls sucks.”

Freaky was released on November 13th 2020. The film stars Vince Vaughn, Kathryn Newton, Celeste O’Connor, and Misha Osherovich. The film runs for approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.

After four teens are brutally murdered by a serial killer, wallflower Millie winds up being chased by the very same killer the next day. After being wounded by a ritualistic weapon, they end up switching bodies the next morning. And so the Freaky Friday fun begins…

Here is the trailer:

Freaky has been done before in several comedy films, but Blumhouse cleverly adds in some slasher gore to liven this plot up. Does the killer idea work out or does it fall flat? Let’s find out…

The Pros:

Images courtesy of Blumhouse Productions

Vince Vaughn is the best part of the movie.

I felt a lot of nostalgia for “The Hot Chick” with Rob Schneider during this film, but in a very good way. Vince Vaughn was laugh out loud funny and his bond with Millie’s two best friends was amazing. I thought that they all played good parts and the chemistry between them all was believable and a lot of fun.

Gory and inventive kills.

Images courtesy of Blumhouse Productions

The comedy was there, but I was a little worried that the kills would be glossed over, but I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of violent gore present in this film. This allowed the film to truly embrace its horror/slasher side with flair.

The Cons:

Images courtesy of Blumhouse Productions

The wallflower act.

I know Kathryn Newton from Supernatural and I was really excited to see her in this role, but I’m not sure that I really bought the shy, nerdy girl vibe. We’ve seen this in a lot of teen movies and all of a sudden the girl takes off her glasses and something magical happens. I think that Kathryn did a great job once she was playing the serial killer, but I wanted a little bit more from her before that. Either way, I’m a fan.

So am I in or out?

Images courtesy of Blumhouse Productions

I’m in!

This movie was a lot of fun. It nailed the horror comedy vibe and actually brought us a lot of gore too which was great. If you enjoyed Happy Death Day and Ready or Not, this is another great film to add to your watch-list. Enjoy!

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

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

PLAY BY THE RULES…STAY ALIVE…

A harmless night of fun turns deadly for six college friends but the game has only just begun. Take a mystery thrill ride right from your own living room. Dash and Seek is out now!

Play if you dare…

Dash and Seek 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!

Spoiler-Free Review of “Chilling Adventures of Sabrina” Part 4 on Netflix: Ends the Way it Should

**This is a spoiler-free review so feel free to read on!**

“Cheerleader by day…Queen of Hell by night.”

Chilling Adventures of Sabrina part 4 premiered on Netflix on December 31st 2020 with eight final episodes available to stream now. The series stars Kiernan Shipka, Ross Lynch, Lucy Davis, Chance Perdomo, Michelle Gomez, and Miranda Otto. Each episode runs for approximately 55 minutes. 

It was bitter sweet to discover that this would be the final season of the bewitching darker take on Sabrina the Teenage Witch and I was worried that the show would not be able to wrap everything up to our satisfaction. Either way, I knew we would be jam-packed with dark spells, rituals, and sacrifice along the way for Sabrina Spellman and the rest of our beloved characters.

Here is the trailer:

Chilling Adventures of Sabrina Part 4 packs a punch with a dark and twisted new threat on Greendale, but is eight episodes truly enough to give this show a proper conclusion? Let’s find out…

The Pros:

CAOS part 4 1

Image courtesy of Netflix

Darker with sci-fi horror.

While the earlier seasons of CAOS dipped into more of a bubble gum pop type of horror, the final season doesn’t hold anything back. There is more gore and more stomach-turning moments which actually had me cringing on more than one occasion. It helped that we got several well-placed mentions of classic movies like Alien and The Evil Dead thrown in for good measure, but I was pleasantly surprised by this darker turn, which worked in the show’s favor.

CAOS part 4 2

Images courtesy of Netflix

Supporting characters get to shine.

We’ve been getting hints along the way about Rosalind’s potential and we finally devote some time to her character, along with several others. While we couldn’t spend too much time on everyone, I thought that the show made a valiant effort to allow each and every character and every relationship a chance at some type of closure or growth. 

Cameos done to perfection in episode 7.

There will be no spoilers in this review, but I am sure you are already aware of the cameos that will appear in the final season. That being said, I was really happy with episode 7 and I thought that the way everything done was beyond brilliant. They could have easily gone down a cheesier, quicker route and instead they presented us with something truly unique that kept the plot going. 

The Cons:

CAOS part 4 3

Images courtesy of Netflix

Rushed and slightly chaotic.

I get it. There was a lot to cover in just eight episodes, but there was so much overstuffed into this season. I appreciate that the writers were trying to tie up loose ends, but I also thought that some moments of fluff were pointless because the plot was actually really good and captivating on its own.

I also thought that the second half of part 4 was much stronger than the first half.

So am I in or out?

CAOS part 4 4

Images courtesy of Netflix

I’m in!

I am a huge fan of this series and I thought that the writers really tried their best to give this show a proper sendoff. There were moments that had me terrified, laughing, and crying my eyes out, but I am satisfied with the conclusion and after so many letdowns this past year from series finales, CAOS earned my respect by sticking to a proper conclusion.

I hope you enjoyed the review and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on Chilling Adventures of Sabrina (part 4) in the comments section below. Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

DON’T TAKE THE JOB…

Girl Number Thirteen Lurking Promo

It was only supposed to be temporary…but when Olivia Crewe accepts a new position that seems too good to be true, she soon discovers that twelve other girls previously had the same job as her. Only none of them lasted for more than thirty days. No notice. Nothing…right before they mysteriously disappeared without a trace.

My new supernatural thriller Girl Number Thirteen is out now! I hope you enjoy!

Girl Number Thirteen 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 2020

We had so many incredible female performances on television in 2020, as these strong, courageous, and slightly quirky women lit up the screen. Whether it was a moment of empowerment, the unexpected transformation of a character, or a breakout role, these women captured our undivided attention throughout the year.

Again, it was difficult for me to narrow down my favorite female performances for 2020 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!

Round One featured the following Female Performances on TV from 2020:

  • Lili Reinhart as Betty Cooper from Riverdale
  • Kaley Cuoco as Cassie Bowden from The Flight Attendant
  • Anya Taylor-Joy as Beth Harmon from The Queen’s Gambit 
  • Cynthia Erivo as Holly Gibney from The Outsider
  • Nicole Kidman as Grace Fraser from The Undoing
  • Kerry Washington as Mia Warren from Little Fires Everywhere
  • Claire Danes as Carrie Mathison from Homeland
  • Jodie Comer as Villanelle from Killing Eve
  • Marie Avgeropoulos as Octavia Blake from The 100
  • Kiernan Shipka as Sabrina Spellman from Chilling Adventures of Sabrina
  • Rhea Seehorn as Kim Wexler from Better Call Saul
  • Danai Gurira as Michonne from The Walking Dead

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

  • Danai Gurira
  • Jodie Comer
  • Nicole Kidman
  • Claire Danes
  • Anya Taylor-Joy
  • Kaley Cuoco

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

  • Jodie Comer
  • Danai Gurira
  • Claire Danes
  • Kaley Cuoco

Honorable Mention: Anya Taylor-Joy came up short, but I think she should honestly get an Emmy for her performance!!!!! Perfection!

Image courtesy of Netflix

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

4th place: Claire Danes as Carrie Mathison from Homeland

Image courtesy of Showtime

Claire has always been so intense and emotional in her portrayal of Carrie, but I thought that she also channeled a lot of maturity and strength in the final season. Well deserved!

3rd place: Kaley Cuoco as Cassie Bowden from The Flight Attendant

Image courtesy of HBO Max

Kaley Cuoco really showed off a completely different side of her by delighting us in one of my favorite shows of the year. Her quirky portrayal of Cassie was spot on and it really made the show that much more enjoyable. I can’t wait to see what she does next!

2nd place: Danai Gurira as Michonne from The Walking Dead

Image courtesy of AMC

It wasn’t easy knowing it would be Michonne’s final season, but wow did Danai deliver some incredible performances along the way. She brought tears to my eyes on more than one occasion and really reminded us that she has been the heart and soul of this show for so long! Thank you Danai!

Drum roll please…

I am so beyond excited to announce your WINNER for Favorite Female Performance of 2020: Jodie Comer as Villanelle in Killing Eve!

Image courtesy of BBC America

Jodie has been such a joy to watch. Villanelle is a complex character and Jodie has really brought her to life. In the third season, we finally got to peel back some layers and witness what truly makes Villanelle tick. Her humanity has really been showing more and more, which makes her an even more remarkable character in my mind. Jodie will always be one of my favorite actresses and I am so pleased with the results! Congrats Jodie!

Thanks to all the fans who voted!  I wish you all the best for the 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 2020. Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing for 2021!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

Ranking the top Couples on Television for 2020: Ships that will warm your heart all year round!

As the New Year quickly approaches, it really got me thinking about some of my absolute favorite couples or ships on television. Whether it was a moment of passion, a first kiss, or a love built on friendship, there were many ships that had my heart skipping a beat, as I gasped for air and fell in love along with them.

It was difficult for me to narrow down my favorite ships for 2020 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 for their favorite ships of the year on TV.  Thank you so much for your participation and support, as the tournament was so much fun and actually really competitive!

*This was actually the biggest response I have ever gotten on one of these and we ended up having over a thousand votes in the final round! Amazing!

Round One featured the following ships/couples from 2020:

  • Cheryl & Toni from Riverdale (Ship name: Choni) 
  • Betty & Jughead from Riverdale (Ship name: Bughead)
  • Veronica & Archie from Riverdale (Ship name: Varchie)
  • Ian & Mickey from Shameless (Ship name: Gallavich)
  • Murphy & Emori from The 100 (Ship name: Memori)
  • Villanelle & Eve from Killing Eve (Ship name: Villaneve)
  • Chloe Decker & Lucifer from Lucifer (Ship name: Deckerstar)
  • Dean & Castiel from Supernatural (Ship name: Destiel)
  • Harry & Macy from Charmed (Ship name: Hacy)
  • Dani & Jamie from The Haunting of Bly Manor (Ship name: Damie)
  • Nancy & Ned from Nancy Drew (Ship name: Nedcy)
  • Betty & Archie from Riverdale (Ship name: Barchie)

After your votes, the following ships/couples moved on to Round Two:

  • Chloe & Lucifer (Deckerstar)
  • Betty & Archie (Barchie)
  • Betty & Jughead (Bughead)
  • Veronica & Archie (Varchie)
  • Ian & Mickey (Gallavich)
  • Harry & Macy (Hacy)

Very Riverdale-centric but a few surprises as well!

After your votes in Round Two, the following ships/couples moved on to the FINALS:

  • Betty & Archie (Barchie)
  • Chloe & Lucifer (Deckerstar)
  • Ian & Mickey (Gallavich)

Most Spirited Ship Fans:  Harry & Macy (Hacy) fans deserve some recognition here even though they didn’t make it to the final round. They really held their own and I can’t wait to see what happens next with Hacy in 2021! Ty for voting!!!!

Hacy 1

Image courtesy of The CW

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

3rd place:  Ian & Mickey (Gallavich)

It was a dream come true for Gallavich fans everywhere when these two were reunited and the final season is giving us plenty of reasons to ship these two all over again. Well deserved!!!!

Gallavich 1

Image courtesy of Showtime

2nd place:  Betty & Archie (Barchie)

Things really heated up between these two in 2020 and even though they are going back to their other partners, there was an undeniable spark ignited here that cannot be ignored!

Barchie 1

Image courtesy of The CW

Drum roll please…

1st place: Chloe & Lucifer (Deckerstar)

We have a new favorite ship for 2020 and I couldn’t be more pleased! The will-they-won’t-they connection was killing me and we finally got the moments we were waiting for and then some in 2020!!!!! So excited!!!!

Deckerstar 1

Image courtesy of Netflix

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 ships on TV from 2020. Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

 

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Shameless” season 11 episode 3: “Frances Francis Franny Frank”

Happy Monday TV fans! After watching Showtime’s Shameless season 11 episode 3, I learned that sometimes “playing the long game” can truly make a difference.

Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not watched the latest episode yet.

In season 11, episode 3, “Frances Francis Franny Frank,” Frank attempts to take Franny to school, which ends up being more difficult than he anticipated. Meanwhile, Carl gets a new partner, Tami gets some heartbreaking news, and Kev shows off with pride.

My top 5 moments from Shameless season 11 episode 3 are:

5

“It’s like a piggy bank but it’s a keg.”

Makes sense to me Kev. It’s a “keggy bank.” Kev is splurging a little bit since they are raking in the dough with their new weed business, but V is skeptical about some of his knockoff purchases.

It’s clear that Kev is excited, but perhaps he shouldn’t go around flaunting his money to everyone, especially when he ends up getting robbed.

Luckily it looks like a new business partner will be joining in the mix to act as security. Welcome to the team, Mickey!

4

“Can I get a picture for Instagram?”

Debbie’s business is really taking off ever since her wrongfully convicted lesbian welder profile launched and she even has time to pose for pictures.

Shameless season 11 episode 3 Debbie Gallagher

Images courtesy of Showtime

However, things take a turn for the worse when she needs to quickly find a way to deliver snacks to Franny’s school. Perhaps it wasn’t the best idea to “borrow” your client’s food and sneak out the window…

I’m curious to see that Yelp review!

3

“Try not to kill this one.”

Carl’s former partner has a 60/40 chance of recovery after his heart attack, but he now has a new female partner to work with. It looks like this new partner is the complete opposite and is ready to shake things up at work.

Carl actually gets to make his very first arrest and it looks like he even learned a thing or two. I think this is the start of a beautiful partnership guys!

2

“I’m not anybody’s bitch.”

Ian and Mickey continue to go through the power struggle known as “marriage,” which ends up escalating into a fight at the Alibi.

Luckily V is there to break it up and manages to put these two in their places, reminding them what a true partnership is all about.

Shameless season 11 episode 3 Gallavich

Images courtesy of Showtime

Seriously don’t mess with V! It looks like Gallavich is going strong again with these wise words!

1

“Today is take your grand-kids to work day.”

Sure, maybe Frank made that up, but he ends up having quite the entertaining adventure with Franny after he fails to find her school. Deb is freaking out about where Franny is, but gets a harsh wake-up call from Lip about her parenting skills.

I have to admit that the best part of the episode was this team-up between Frank and Franny, which was beyond adorable. Her negotiation skills are top notch and Frank even convinced her about the importance of “playing the long game” to make her mother happy, finally putting on the dress to take her picture for “Miss South Side.”

Shameless season 11 episode 3 Frank and Franny

Images courtesy of Showtime

Frank’s sporting some new ink to honor his granddaughter and we even get a trip down memory lane and a mention of…Fiona!

Overall, I thought this was another strong episode. I can’t wait to see what happens next!

 

Stay tuned Gallagher fans!

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

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

DON’T TAKE THE JOB…

Girl Number Thirteen Lurking Promo

It was only supposed to be temporary…but when Olivia Crewe accepts a new position that seems too good to be true, she soon discovers that twelve other girls previously had the same job as her. Only none of them lasted for more than thirty days. No notice. Nothing…right before they mysteriously disappeared without a trace.

My new supernatural thriller Girl Number Thirteen is out now! I hope you enjoy!

Girl Number Thirteen 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!

 

 

 

 

Spoiler-Free Review of “The Wilds” on Prime Video: So Much More than a “LOST” Rip-Off

**This is a spoiler-free review so feel free to read on!**

“We should have died, but we didn’t…”

The Wilds premiered on Amazon Prime Video on December 11th 2020 with ten episodes available to stream now. The series stars Sarah Pidgeon, Mia Healey, Sophia Ali, Reign Edwards, and Rachel Griffiths. Each episode runs for approximately 50-55 minutes. 

The show is about a group of teenage girls who end up stranded on a deserted island after their plane crashes.

Sound familiar? Well, it certainly screams LOST with its premise, but the twists and reveals lead us down a unique path that begs to be explored.

Here is the trailer:

The Wilds attempts to find a balance between mystery and survival while exploring the past of each stranded girl with flashbacks. While I can’t dismiss the similarities between both shows, does The Wilds do enough to stand apart from LOST? Let’s find out…

The Pros:

The Wilds Prime Video Spoiler-Free Review 1

Images courtesy of Prime Video

Believable characters with layers.

When I first started watching this show, I was worried that these girls would quickly blend into uninspiring stock characters. The party girl, the Christian girl, the athlete, the outcast…

The list seemed to be all there and yet each and every one of these characters took that stereotype and stomped on it completely, revealing what truly makes them tick. Each character has struggled in some way or another, but their journey really helped shape them into characters to root for, which is important in a show like this.

The Wilds Prime VIdeo Spoiler-Free Review 2

Images courtesy of Prime Video

Quickly forms its own identity with addicting and intense reveals.

While the first episode will really make you think of LOST and Lord of the Flies, the show quickly finds its footing and actually lures us into an enticing mystery that is very different. The twists were well placed and each reveal pulled me in that much more, which made this binge-watch friendly.

The episodes were almost an hour and I didn’t even mind because I was so hooked.

And that ending…wow!

The Cons:

The Wilds Spoiler Free Review 3

Images courtesy of Prime Video

The trailer doesn’t do this show justice…

From the trailer, I thought that I was going to watch a LOST rip-off with a lot of teenage melodrama. Instead, I got a thought-provoking emotional thrill ride that may have been one of the best things I have watched in a long time.

This show could have easily gone a different way and instead it really surprised me. If you were thinking about skipping the show from the trailer alone, you should give it a try because it exceeded my expectations and then some.

So am I in or out?

The Wilds Spoiler Free Review 4

Images courtesy of Prime Video

I’m in 100 percent!

This series was so addicting, but it also really dived deep into some emotionally stirring moments that created important layers for the show. Similar to why I love LOST so much, this show was about so much more than being stranded on an island after a plane crash. It was about character connections and moments of both strength and weakness colliding. 

I loved this show so much and I am beyond excited that it already got picked up for season two because I need to know what happens next after that major cliffhanger! 

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

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

DON’T TAKE THE JOB…

Girl Number Thirteen Lurking Promo

It was only supposed to be temporary…but when Olivia Crewe accepts a new position that seems too good to be true, she soon discovers that twelve other girls previously had the same job as her. Only none of them lasted for more than thirty days. No notice. Nothing…right before they mysteriously disappeared without a trace.

My new supernatural thriller Girl Number Thirteen is out now! I hope you enjoy!

Girl Number Thirteen 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 my Top 10 Television Shows of 2020: Which Shows Made The Cut?

Greetings TV Fans! As we get closer and closer to approaching 2021, I thought it would be the perfect time to count down my Top 10 TV Shows of 2020. 

While some returning shows continued strong, others fell off slightly. Meanwhile, some other new shows completely captivated my attention, paving their way into my top 10.

**Please note some spoilers are ahead.**

Without any further delay, let’s get to my list!

My Top 10 Television Shows of 2020 are:

10

The Undoing

The Undoing HBO

Image courtesy of HBO

Nicole Kidman and Hugh Grant brought some mesmerizing thrills and intensity to the small screen. This mystery hooked me from the very first episode and I couldn’t wait to find out how it all ended.

Edge of your seat moments and then some!

9

Homeland (Season 8, Final Season)

Homeland Season 8

Image courtesy of Showtime

It’s been a long journey for Carrie and Saul, but I thought that the final season did a fantastic job of wrapping things up. For me, the ending was satisfying and it’s not always easy to pull this off for a long-running show.

8

Killing Eve (Season 3)

Killing Eve season 3

Image courtesy of BBC America

While season 1 still remains my favorite so far, I thought that season 3 did a good job of filling in a lot of blanks I had about Villanelle’s character and backstory. Plus, we got some Villaneve moments that were simply to die for…pun intended!

7

Lucifer (Season 5, Part 1)

Lucifer season 5 part 1

Image courtesy of Netflix

The will-they-won’t-they tension is finally resolved and we got some pretty epic showdowns that may have made this season one of my absolute favorites so far. I’m still sitting here anxiously waiting for a release date for part 2, but this season exceeded my expectations so far.

6

Cursed

Cursed

Image courtesy of Netflix

This re-imagining of King Arthur was full of beautiful cinematography, but I was obsessed with Katherine Langford’s portrayal of Nimue (The Lady of the Lake). She was the bad-ass female character I was looking for and I can’t wait to see what she does next!

5

The Stranger

The Stranger Netflix

Image courtesy of Netflix

Harlan Coben is the master of creating mysteries that will keep you guessing, but this show was the definition of the perfect binge-watch for me. It hooked me right from the opening scene and I had to know more as each piece of the puzzle was introduced.

4

Dispatches From Elsewhere

Dispatches from elsewhere

Image courtesy of AMC

This show came out of nowhere for me. But I can say that it was like nothing I have ever watched before. There was something transcendent and magical within this show and while the mystery was compelling enough, the development and connection between characters was truly meaningful. Jason Segel is a genius!

3

The Flight Attendant

The Flight Attendant

Image courtesy of HBO Max

A unique and addicting thriller with a brilliant performance by Kaley Cuoco. This show was fun, intense, and really out there and I am completely obsessed with it!

2

The Queen’s Gambit

The Queen's Gambit

Image courtesy of Netflix

Honestly, it’s really a toss up between my number one and two picks this year. I loved both shows so much, but I guess it comes down to preference for me. However, I can’t say enough good things about The Queen’s Gambit. This show was like nothing I have ever seen before and Anya Taylor-Joy deserves an Emmy for her performance.

Who would have thought that a story about a chess player would be so incredibly moving and entertaining? If you haven’t seen this yet, please move it to the top of your watch-list. It’s that good.

Drum roll please…

1

The Haunting of Bly Manor

The Haunting of Bly Manor

Image courtesy of Netflix

A beautifully chilling ghost story that channeled its Gothic roots while bringing us a fresh take on a classic story. As soon as I started watching this, I was completely drawn in by the narration and I thought that each reveal was brilliantly done.

There was something beyond haunting about this show. It truly pierced my heart and soul and forever changed me in a lot of ways. “Perfectly splendid.”

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and comments about your favorite television shows of 2020. Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

Spoiler-Free Review of “Truth Seekers” on Prime Video: The Paranormal can be fun

**This is a spoiler-free review so feel free to read on!**

The dream team is back!

Truth Seekers premiered on Amazon Prime Video on October 30th 2020 with eight episodes available to stream now. The series stars Nick Frost, Simon Pegg, Samson Kayo, Malcom McDowell, and Emma D’Arcy. Each episode runs for approximately 30 minutes. 

The show is about a group of part-time paranormal investigators who uncover several mysteries involving ghost sightings.

While you may know Nick Frost and Simon Pegg best from Shaun of the Dead, this show tends to follow a different path despite its horror comedy label.

Here is the trailer:

Truth Seekers has all the ingredients to quickly become a cult favorite among fans, but can Nick Frost and Simon Pegg pull off this mystery while maintaining their dry sarcastic humor? Let’s find out…

The Pros:

Truth Seekers Prime Video

Images courtesy of Prime Video

The perfect balance of paranormal mystery and quirky fun.

I didn’t really know what to expect when I started this show, but I was surprised at how quickly I became obsessed with it. I actually watched all eight episodes in one sitting and part of that is because of this balance. Sure, there are plenty of moments that will make you chuckle and laugh out loud, which we have come to expect from both Nick Frost and Simon Pegg, but the mystery itself is actually really good.

There are some investigations that are a little bit silly, bringing a welcomed SPN Ghostfacers vibe into the mix, but once we start unraveling the pieces behind the main mystery, I was hooked!

Truth Seekers Prime Video 2

Images courtesy of Prime Video

Supporting characters are a delight.

I was slightly disappointed when I realized that Nick Frost and Simon Pegg would not be working together on the paranormal team. Simon Pegg plays Nick Frost’s boss, but I changed my tune when I was introduced to the supporting characters of the show who really lit up the screen and added to the dynamic perfectly.

The Cons:

Truth Seekers Simon Pegg Prime Video 3

Image courtesy of Prime Video

Simon Pegg’s wig…

Honestly it’s the only con I can come up with and they even poke fun at it later so I can’t really say that much about it, but it was really distracting!

So am I in or out?

Truth Seekers Prime Video 4

Images courtesy of Prime Video

I’m in!

I loved this series from start to finish. It was the perfect binge-watch and it was actually really cool to see Nick Frost and Simon Pegg in something a little bit different. They really nailed the paranormal investigator vibe while managing to sprinkle in their well-known humor. Bring on season two!

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

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

DON’T TAKE THE JOB…

Girl Number Thirteen Lurking Promo

It was only supposed to be temporary…but when Olivia Crewe accepts a new position that seems too good to be true, she soon discovers that twelve other girls previously had the same job as her. Only none of them lasted for more than thirty days. No notice. Nothing…right before they mysteriously disappeared without a trace.

My new supernatural thriller Girl Number Thirteen is out now! I hope you enjoy!

Girl Number Thirteen 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 “Shameless” season 11 episode 2: “Go Home, Gentrifier!”

Happy Monday TV fans! After watching Showtime’s Shameless season 11 episode 2, I learned that going into business with Frank Gallagher can be risky, but he does know what he is doing…

Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not watched the latest episode yet.

In season 11, episode 2, “Go Home, Gentrifier,” Kev and V decide to team up with Frank to make some more sales from their new weed business. Meanwhile, Deb wants to throw a princess birthday party for Franny and Carl starts his first day on the force.

My top 5 moments from Shameless season 11 episode 2 are:

5

“First day on the job.”

Carl is more than excited to start his first day on the job, but his new partner doesn’t really want to rush into danger. His idea of the perfect day involves jamming out to “Shake That Ass,” enjoying a nice meal with his mom and getting in a quick nap at Best Buy while responding to fake calls.

Shameless season 11 episode 2 Carl

Images courtesy of Showtime

Carl wants to actually experience some action, but changes his tune slightly when his new partner agrees to buy him one drink. Only his new partner starts chugging beer and ends up having a heart attack while having sex with a police groupie.

It looks like Carl may be getting a new partner after all…

4

“A Gallagher lives here!”

Lip is upset when he returns home and finds out that his windows have been broken and trash is dumped on his yard. Lip has really been trying to make an effort on his new home and asks his neighbor to keep an eye out.

Later in the episode, Lip and Tami discover that his neighbor and her friends were the ones messing up their house because they don’t want the property taxes to go up. The front garden was looking really nice, Lip!

3

“Shut the f*ck up Jerome!”

Mickey still doesn’t seem overly motivated to get a job, but Ian tells him that there will be no more sex until he does. After watching TV all morning, Mickey sees a hilarious ad from Jerome asking him what he is doing with his life. Mickey seems somewhat inspired, but tells Jerome to shut up.

Shameless season 11 episode 2 Mickey finds a job

Images courtesy of Showtime

After failing his “role playing” interview at the warehouse, Mickey decides to put his entrepreneur skills to the test to make some money on the expired food that is being tossed out, but Ian still tells him he needs a new job.

I’m confident that there is the perfect job out there for Mickey, but it may be a little while until he finds his true calling. Gotta love his enthusiasm though!

2

“What could be more fun than that?”

It’s Franny’s fifth birthday and she is initially very excited, but it looks like Debbie is the one who truly wants to throw a princess party. After finding the perfect decorations at the dollar store, Debbie is extremely disappointed when the bouncy house arrives with a Count Dracula theme.

Shameless season 11 episode 2 Debbie wants a princess party

Images courtesy of Showtime

Franny actually seems to love it, but Debbie wants a princess one, revealing that perhaps this party is really more for her…

Later on, the princess sing-along gets a little stale, but luckily Uncle Mickey shows up with a gun to win over Franny.

1

“I would feel the same way if I was going into business with me…”

V is out of weed and is worried about how they will continue making their new edibles, but Kev suggests that they go into business with the “illegal drug connoisseur,” Frank Gallagher.

Frank tells them they can go for a trial run, but his product is actually pretty impressive and brings in a lot of money. After the trial run is over, Frank reminds them that he did most of the work and changes the cut.

V thinks that they should try and get the product themselves, but Frank is one step ahead of them and now changes the split to 70/30. 

Going into business with Frank can have its rewards, but Frank is ready to defend his skills if necessary. Watch out, V!

Stay tuned Gallagher fans!

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

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

DON’T TAKE THE JOB…

Girl Number Thirteen Lurking Promo

It was only supposed to be temporary…but when Olivia Crewe accepts a new position that seems too good to be true, she soon discovers that twelve other girls previously had the same job as her. Only none of them lasted for more than thirty days. No notice. Nothing…right before they mysteriously disappeared without a trace.

My new supernatural thriller Girl Number Thirteen is out now! I hope you enjoy!

Girl Number Thirteen 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!

 

 

 

 

 

Spoiler-Free Review of “The Hardy Boys” on Hulu: A New Mystery to Uncover without all the drama

**This is a spoiler-free review so feel free to read on!**

Welcome to Bridgeport…

The Hardy Boys premiered on Hulu on December 4th 2020 with thirteen new episodes available to stream now. The series stars Rohan Campbell, Alexander Elliot, Bea Santos, Keana Lyn, Riley O’Donnell, and James Tupper. Each episode runs for approximately 40-43 minutes. 

Based on the iconic book series, this new re-imagining of The Hardy Boys takes place in the 1980’s. After a family tragedy, Frank and Joe Hardy move in with their aunt as they try to piece together the mystery in front of them.

While the series may initially give off some Riverdale and Nancy Drew vibes, it manages to leave the majority of the teen drama behind, focusing on the mystery and the connection between these brothers.

Here is the trailer:

The Hardy Boys is following in the footsteps of modern takes on Nancy Drew and Riverdale, but its simple formula may actually set it apart. Does it do enough to stand out from its predecessors? Let’s find out…

The Pros:

The Hardy Boys Hulu 1

Images courtesy of Hulu

Smart choice of time and setting.

Unlike Riverdale and The CW’s Nancy Drew, which both take place in current times, The Hardy Boys takes place during the 1980’s. This actually works to its advantage, as we rely more on how to truly solve a mystery without using modern technology, channeling a lot of nostalgia from the original novels.

We also get a great soundtrack and a small town setting that has a lot of secrets to be uncovered.

Let the mysteries begin!

The Hardy Boys Hulu 2

Images courtesy of Hulu

Believable bond between the brothers.

I think this is important and much like the Winchester brothers on SPN, we get a really strong connection right away between Joe and Frank Hardy. It makes us that much more invested throughout their involvement in the mystery and we care about what happens to them.

There are also some stand-out characters like Biff, who really lit up the screen. While Biff was originally a male character in the book series, girls have some serious sleuth skills too!

The Cons:

The Hardy Boys Hulu 3

Images courtesy of Hulu

The mystery is just kind of okay…

It’s not bad, but I have to admit that some of the mysteries on both Riverdale and Nancy Drew have caught my attention more. I think that the mystery gets better in the later episodes, however.

Too many episodes.

I think that The Hardy Boys would have actually benefited more from running weekly episodes instead of having them all available at once. While I love a good binge-watch, there are thirteen long episodes and the mystery kind of dragged as a result of this. 

So am I in or out?

The Hardy Boys Hulu 4

Images courtesy of Hulu

I’m in about 75 percent.

While it took me a little longer than I would have liked to get into this show, I did start to become hooked around episode five. The characters started to really grow on me and the mystery reveals were well placed. I think that the show does enough to form its own identity separate from The CW shows, but I wouldn’t say that you need to move this one to the top of your watch-list just yet. However, it does make a fun watch when you have time.

I hope you enjoyed the review and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on The Hardy Boys in the comments section below. Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

DON’T TAKE THE JOB…

Girl Number Thirteen Lurking Promo

It was only supposed to be temporary…but when Olivia Crewe accepts a new position that seems too good to be true, she soon discovers that twelve other girls previously had the same job as her. Only none of them lasted for more than thirty days. No notice. Nothing…right before they mysteriously disappeared without a trace.

My new supernatural thriller Girl Number Thirteen is out now! I hope you enjoy!

Girl Number Thirteen 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!