drama Archives - Page 28 of 33

5 Reasons why you should watch “Castle Rock” on Hulu: “It wasn’t me…it was this place.”

“It wasn’t me…it was this place.” If you are a devoted television fan like me, then I’m sure you have heard of the Hulu show Castle Rock, which premiered earlier this summer on July 25, 2018. While the episodes aired each week, all episodes have now officially been added for season one so this is the perfect time to binge-watch the entire season.

The season features 10 episodes and it has been confirmed that the series has already been renewed for season 2. To give you some background, the series can best be categorized as a psychological horror show with just the right amount of mystery mixed in. The series is based on the settings and characters from Stephen King and the executive producer of the show is J.J.Abrams.

The show focuses primarily on the small fictional town of Castle Rock, Maine, emerging us into a dark world filled with unexplained deaths, paranormal occurrences, and the elaborate intertwining of characters. From the moment you watch the first few minutes of episode 1, you are completely hooked and drawn in to the masterful storytelling, which will have you on the edge of your seat at all times.

While there is quite a bit of set up, the episodes are fast paced and move the plot along seamlessly. The acting and writing is so real and moving that you will find yourself contemplating the moments you see portrayed even after you are done watching. This is a must watch show and I have quickly become a big fan. Please note some spoilers are ahead, but major ones have been left out for your convenience. My top 5 reasons to check out Castle Rock season 1 are:

Stephen King & J.J. Abrams.

Stephen King is a master at creating a story that is so real and haunting that you find yourself walking along the same path as the characters you are reading about. King is wonderful at creating vivid images that you can visualize across the page, proving that words can be just as compelling as anything we see on the big or small screen.

Sold already? So am I. However, let’s combine that with executive producer, J.J. Abrams, who brought us my favorite show in the world, Lost. The world we see on television is so convincing and intricate, which really does King’s stories justice, giving us the chance to get to see these characters and setting come to life right before our eyes.

Episode 9: “Henry Deaver.”

While every episode stands out in its own way, episode 9 did the unthinkable. It completely blew my mind and immersed me into something so mysterious and compelling. While I had questions the entire time I watched this episode, I refused to pause it for even a moment. It’s that good. I don’t want to give anything away because I want you to truly enjoy the experience for yourself, but episode 9 basically takes everything you think you know about Castle Rock and throws it out the window.

You are basically left in a whirlwind of confusion that will have you glued to the television screen, unblinking. While it may seem that I am going overboard, this episode truly captured what it means to give the audience answers without every really answering anything concretely. Sure it sounds confusing, but there is something so magnetic about this episode in particular that it will have you completely mesmerized.

The twist and mystery is not completely obvious.

Even though I love a good twist or mystery, I always find myself trying to figure it out the entire time. Whether it is from a book, movie, or television series, I really enjoy playing Nancy Drew. In Castle Rock, we are presented with several mysteries and you can’t help trying to put the pieces of the puzzle together. However, I never saw the twist in this show coming.

While I came close with some theories, the show does an excellent job of keeping you in the dark for just the right amount of time, while sending clues your way to keep your interest. If you are able to figure out what’s going on, I absolutely commend you because I was shocked and that much more intrigued once it was revealed. Even with the twist revealed, there are still so many questions left unanswered. I’m assuming we will get to this in season 2 so that is even more of a reason why I appreciated it so much.

The cast.

The acting on this show is so incredible. The regular cast stands out on its own with amazing performances from André Holland, Melanie Lynskey, Bill Skarsgård, Jane Levy, and Sissy Spacek. While I expected the main cast to be great, I didn’t expect for every single guest star to be unbelievably amazing as well. In particular, the performances by Terry O’Quinn, Scott Glenn, Noel Fisher, Chosen Jacobs, and Lauren Bowles were outstanding.

Every performance is so real and believable that you really think these people are the very characters they are portraying. You find yourself sympathizing with them and wanting to know everything about them. Even characters that show up later in the series still spark an interest, as you find yourself trying to figure out how they come into play. The intertwining of characters is absolutely spell-binding, bringing Stephen King’s creations to life with new vigor.

Episode 7: “The Queen.”

While I would normally focus on a season finale for my top reason to watch a show, episode 7 is something so incredibly powerful and it deserves every amount of praise possible. This episode would not have been so amazing without the talented Sissy Spacek, who gave us a performance that was so incredibly heartbreaking that you could almost feel your own heart beat out of its chest just from watching.

During the series, we learn that Sissy Spacek’s character, Ruth, suffers from dementia. The earlier episodes allowed us to see her from the perspectives of other characters, but in episode 7, everything we see is completely from Ruth’s perspective. Timelines shift around and we see Ruth combining the past and present, but the episode is executed so well that you don’t lose track of what is happening. The ending moments of this episode are so heart wrenching.

This episode in particular was probably one of the most incredible episodes I have ever seen on television. I’m ranking it up there with “The Constant” from Lost, “Salud” from Breaking Bad, and “Becoming Part II” from Buffy the Vampire Slayer. If you have seen any of these episodes, then you know that I am not giving out this title lightly. “The Queen” is out of this world and it elevated Castle Rock to an entirely new level. Ready to watch? Stay tuned!

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

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

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

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

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

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

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Ranking the top 5 moments from “The Purge” season 1 episode 2: “It’s My Right To Purge”

Happy Wednesday TV fans! After watching the USA network’s The Purge season 1 episode 2 last night, I realized how terrifying it is when “purging” seems like the only answer to our problems. While life may throw us a series of “curve balls,” it doesn’t mean that picking up the bat is the only answer, as the voice over the radio suggested. Even though “life has this way of undermining your expectations,” there is always another option. There is still good to be done even though it may only flicker quietly on Purge Night. Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet. In last night’s episode, “Take What’s Yours,” we learn more about Jane’s past and begin to understand her motives on Purge Night. Meanwhile, Miguel continues to try and find his sister, but ends up caught up in some kind of horror fun zone race, Rick and Jenna interact with Lila separately, and Penelope witnesses the consequences of going against the order of the “good leader.” My top 5 moments from The Purge season 1 episode 2 are:

“Are you sure you’re good?”

After Lila makes her grand entrance into the party, Rick and Jenna react differently. Jenna is clearly more impacted at this time and I began to really wonder about the strength of her marriage to Rick, who doesn’t even seem to really notice that she is clearly not “good” in this situation. Rick leaves Jenna to go work on his business deal, but this doesn’t really seem like the right call when his wife seems like she is about to have some kind of emotional meltdown just at the sight of Lila. While we begin to put the pieces together here, it seems like more secrets are about to unravel, but will this escalate into a potential purge? We’ll have to stay tuned to find out.

“I made a mistake. I don’t want to die.”

During the episode, Penelope tries to comfort her friend on the bus, who is having second thoughts about “stepping into the invisible.” Penelope explains that “pain is temporary” and that after the death of her parents, she was aimlessly searching for an escape, but that the “good leader” saved her and showed her the right path. Penelope is convinced that she will see her parents and that “it will all be love in the end,” but her friend is still not ready to give herself up as a sacrifice. Naturally, the “good leader” has chosen Penelope’s friend as the next sacrifice, but she begins hysterically crying and screaming that she doesn’t want to die. Penelope courageously tries to take her place, but her request is harshly turned down, as her friend is dragged off the bus. Penelope hears her friend crying out to her for help, as two men in masks drag her away. Is this enough to snap Penelope back into reality?

“I want to be all about the future.”

During the party, Lila approaches Jenna and Rick separately. When she speaks to Jenna, there is something genuine and sweet about her actions and words toward her. Jenna seems hesitant to get close to Lila, but is happy that she is doing so well. However, when Lila approaches Rick, she is more seductive and taunting, calling him the “man of the hour” and reminding him that she has already seen him naked. Rick is not amused by her behavior and continues to try and avoid her, but Lila and Jenna cross paths again, which escalates into a private moment between them. Lila tells Jenna that she thinks she is perfect and the two begin kissing passionately. Lila seems to have genuine feelings for Jenna, but does she love her enough to force Rick out of the equation? Is this all some kind of sick and twisted game for her to eliminate the competition? Either way, the scandal between these three is far from over.

“Sometimes it feels like purging is the only answer.”

During the episode, we get a more detailed flashback into Jane’s past. We learn that she is someone who has worked extremely hard for everything and tries to follow her own moral compass. While it is clear that Jane deserves a promotion to partner, her boss, David, seems to have another agenda. David is clearly a womanizer and drops several hints to Jane of his intentions. Jane is honorable and refuses to stoop to this level. She is passed over for partner despite all of her hard work, which makes her question who she is as a person. When she hires the woman to complete the purge on her behalf, Jane insists on giving her a reason why, revealing that she is a good person deep down, but she is tired of being stepped on over and over again. Will Jane be able to go through with this? Will she be able to live with the consequences? I’m not so sure, as it seems like she is a genuine person who is just conflicted.

“You live, you win. You die, you lose.”

Miguel is still on his quest to find the bus and his sister, but the distractions and obstacles keep coming his way. Miguel ends up on some kind of sick game show called the “Purge Night Gauntlet,” which involves him running through some kind of house of horrors fun zone while being broadcasted live. Miguel shows off his skills and takes out everyone in his way, but is not too interested in winning once he crosses the finish line. He desperately tries to get a message out to his sister over the camera, determined to find her no matter what. Miguel still has quite the journey ahead of him, but he is proving to be a hero we can root for, capable of saving lives and kicking some serious ass. While we don’t know who we can really trust, it’s safe to say that Miguel is definitely one of the good guys. I’m interested to see where his journey takes him to next. Stay tuned!

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

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

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

[twitter-follow screen_name=’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!

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

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

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Ranking the top 5 moments from “Fear the Walking Dead” season 4 episode 13: “It Helped More Than You Will Ever Know”

Happy Monday TV fans! After watching AMC’s Fear the Walking Dead season 4 episode 13, I realized that even the smallest gestures can make a tremendous impact. The work that Morgan and the rest of the gang are doing is so important and they are touching lives every day. It just goes to show you that a small act of kindness can go a long way. We can apply that to our everyday lives as well, but it’s important to remember that heroes can emerge through many different acts. You don’t have to literally save the world to become one. You just have to open your heart to others and treat them the way you want to be treated and then some. It may seem insignificant, but these actions can truly make a difference. Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet. In last night’s episode, “Blackjack,” we follow Victor and John after the storm and quickly realize that a dangerous threat has emerged in the water. Meanwhile, Luciana crosses paths with a stranger in need of help and Morgan speaks to the mysterious lady villain again. My top 5 moments from Fear the Walking Dead season 4 episode 13 are:

“Whoever gets the kill wins the bill.”

I have to say that I absolutely love the addition of Wendell, Sarah, and Jim to the series. They are bringing some much needed comedy to the heavy and emotional episodes, which really helps balance and elevate the show. During the episode, Jim is frightened when he detects a walker headed their way and keeps asking Wendell to give him a gun. Wendell refuses to give him the gun, but hilariously asks him, “You want a rock?” As the walker comes up behind him, Wendell’s weapons protrude from the back of his wheelchair, as he pins the walker in place. Wendell is excited to win the point, but Sarah gets the kill and reminds us that “whoever gets the kill wins the bill.” While this moment may seem insignificant compared to the ones we are about to get to, it’s important to be able to laugh a little bit during the show. These characters live in such harsh conditions and need to hang on to every bit of fun they can find, even if it’s just for a moment.

“I know who you really are.”

During the episode, the mysterious lady villain is back and radios over to Morgan when the group tries to reach out to Quinn, who only responds with undead moans and groans to June’s horror. Morgan recognizes her voice, but is confused about how she knows who he is. The woman tells him that Quinn is not weak anymore and that she let him become what he was meant to be, which reminds us just how twisted she is. The woman also tells Morgan that she knows a lot about him and warns him not to leave the boxes anymore. She explains, “If you stop trying to help people then you’ll be strong again.” While we don’t know how much this woman really knows about Morgan or what her ultimate goal is, I’m intrigued to find out. Either way, Morgan quickly understands that this woman is extremely dangerous and a threat to his people.

“You just got to fight for that next day.”

During the episode, we finally catch up with Victor and John and discover that they are stranded on some kind of island after the storm. To make matters worse, there is a gator lurking in the waters, snacking on walkers left and right, which makes it even harder for Victor and John to escape. John is a believer and tries to help Victor become one too and shows him the candy he found, which is June’s favorite. He explains that “little things like this make you want to keep fighting. If we don’t fight for everyday, we’re no different than the past.” While John is a true believer, Victor is a realist and these two clash quite a bit, but perhaps they can help each other more than they realize. Victor finally opens up and reveals that “I drink to forget that I don’t have anyone to drink with anymore. I only have things to look back on.” This moment is particularly heartbreaking because we know that Victor is referring to Madison, his dear friend and drinking partner. John offers to have a drink with him, but only once they cross the water, which is easier said than done. When they get about half way, they realize that they are not going to make it. The gator continues to wreak havoc on the dead and John tries to believe that they can get across, but Victor tells him that they can’t, as they both swim to shore defeated. Their food rationings are running out and John even has to eat the candy that he was saving for June, but all hope is not gone yet. Hopefully Morgan and the others can help them before it’s too late.

“It helped more than you will ever know.”

We also catch up with Luciana during this episode, who is out looking for Charlie. She quickly crosses paths with an older man named Clayton who is severely injured and pinned in a car. Luciana tries to stay positive, but soon realizes that she will not be able to save his life. Luciana asks him if there is anything she can do for him and Clayton responds, “I’d love to have one last beer.” Luciana tells him that he is going to get one and sets out on a quest to find this one last comfort for her new friend. The two continue to radio back and forth while she is out looking and Clayton refers to her as “little lady,” which is absolutely adorable. Luciana explains that she has things to make up for and Clayton gives her some good advice, explaining that even though she can’t help him, it doesn’t mean that she won’t be able to help someone else. Luciana continues to search for a beer and even finds some root beer along the way, but her quest seems hopeless until she finds one of the boxes that Morgan left. The beer is inside and she sees the note about radioing channel 4 if she needs help. Luciana is able to give the beer to Clayton and opens up about not being able to do anything for Nick when he died. Clayton reveals that he used to drive trucks and gives Luciana some notebooks with helpful information she may need about where supplies are. When she ultimately radios out to channel 4, she thanks them for what they left, explaining how much it actually helped. Luciana is shocked to hear Morgan on the other end and is able to reunite with her friends. I thoroughly enjoyed the interaction between Luciana and Clayton during this episode. While it seemed like Luciana was going on a journey of self-discovery, she had a friend to keep her company along the way and at the same time, she was able to truly be there for Clayton in his last moments. The Lost fan in me can’t help but saying, “Live together, die alone” here as this quote seems to truly summarize what we just witnessed in this episode.

“It doesn’t make us weak. It makes all of us stronger.”

At the end of the episode, we also see Charlie and Alicia and they get in touch with Morgan after finding one of the boxes as well. During the conversation; however, the mysterious woman interrupts and tells Morgan that she tried to tell him not to do this. Morgan tells her that helping others makes us all stronger and wants to help her as well. The woman is not too receptive to Morgan’s offer; however, as she pulls up behind the truck in Al’s van and opens fire on them. While we don’t yet know the fate of our favorite characters, it looks like we will finally find out some more information about this new villain next week. Stay tuned!

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

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

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

[twitter-follow screen_name=’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!

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

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Ranking the top 5 moments from “The Purge” season 1 episode 1 Series Premiere: “Step Into The Invisible”

Happy Wednesday TV fans! “This is not a test, this is your Emergency Broadcast System. Announcing the commencement of the annual purge sanctioned by the U.S. Government. Commencing at the siren, any and all crime (including murder) will be legal for 12 continuous hours.” So you have seen The Purge movies and you are ready to set your alarms once again to find out what happens on this particular purge night. Only this purge is spread across 10 episodes on television. After watching the USA network’s The Purge season 1 episode 1 last night, I was introduced to several new characters who are about to experience their very own Purge Night. While some characters leave something to be desired, others did capture my full attention and I was particularly intrigued by the cult that centers on “stepping into the invisible.” Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet. In last night’s episode, “What Is America?” the countdown to Purge Night has already started and we step into the lives of several new characters only to discover that they each have secrets of their own, which will most likely cause their past to bleed into their present on Purge Night. My top 5 moments from The Purge season 1 episode 1 are:

“Rich people don’t kill each other on Purge Night.”

Two of the new characters we are introduced to are Rick and Jenna, played by Colin Woodell and Hannah Emily Anderson. We learn that they are a married couple and are on their way to attend an NFFA party. As a reminder, the NFFA stands for “New Founding Fathers of America.” Even though we find out it is to negotiate a business deal that could eventually benefit the poor and less fortunate, it doesn’t seem like a great idea to do this on Purge Night, but their potential new partner apparently only conducts important business deals on this particular night. Against their better judgment, Rick and Jenna travel to the party, reminding themselves that they do not want to join the NFFA. Something tells me that they are not going to really get a choice in the matter, but I’m willing to somewhat believe that they are good people deep down. Only we are presented with several flashbacks, which show Rick and Jenna involved in a ménage a trois with Lila. We find out that Lila is the daughter of their potential new business partner but that she will not be at the party. Jenna is clearly more nervous and apprehensive about her possible guest appearance than Rick, which has me already wondering what else happened between them. Clearly the affair or relationship did not end well for someone, but we will have to wait to find out.

“You know I’m always watching and listening Jane.”

During the episode, we are also introduced to Jane, played by Amanda Warren. Jane’s mother is in the hospital and she begs her daughter not to work on Purge Night. Jane reassures her mother that where she is working is very safe and it seems like she has the respect and approval of most of her employees. After a briefing about the importance of their business on this particular night from their boss, David, played by William Baldwin, he reminds Jane that he is always watching. Later in the episode, Jane leaves the only secure floor of the building to meet a stranger by the doorway. The stranger explains that they need to wait for the purge to begin and once it does, Jane is handed an envelope. What’s inside? We’ll have to wait and see, but it looks like Jane may be looking to purge after all. Is she looking to take out her boss or is there another potential enemy we have not yet detected?

“The fear went away.”

The character I was most interested in was Miguel, played by Gabriel Chavarria. Miguel is a Marine who has been away and is now on a mission to find his sister after he receives a cryptic letter from her. Out of all of the characters we have met so far, Miguel seems to be the most genuine. He has the potential to be our very own Leo from The Purge movies, played by Frank Grillo, but he needs to be a little bit rougher around the edges to achieve that level of bad-ass behavior. Miguel is completely focused on finding his sister and we learn that they both lost their parents on a previous Purge Night. Even though Miguel will do anything to find his sister, he does take the time to help out a stranger in need, which sets him up to be our moral compass in the midst of the masked monsters that emerge on Purge Night.

“Let the fun begin.”

During the NFFA party, the guests are given one last chance to leave before the Purge begins. Rick and Jenna nervously glance at each other, but neither of them makes a move to the exit. All of the guests are handed out masks of previous murderers like the Manson family. They are told, “Commemorate those who paved the way and purged before it was legal.” While Rick and Jenna do not want to wear the masks, they also don’t want to stick out too much at the party. Jenna has already bonded with a maid and it’s clear that she has a good heart, but what will she do now that Lila has made her grand entrance into the party, played by the fabulous Lili Simmons. Lila is decked out in a gorgeous green sequined gown and has not yet spotted Rick and Jenna. Something tells me that Jenna’s good girl act is about to change now that she is trapped with a potential enemy.

“Step into the invisible.”

During the episode, we learn that Miguel’s sister, Penelope, played by Jessica Garza, is involved in some type of cult. It’s clear that Penelope must have been broken and in need of help, as Miguel initially looks for her in a rehabilitation center. While we do not yet know the particulars of what happened to their parents, Penelope seems very impressionable. Miguel desperately tries to find his sister, as the bus takes off in the middle of purge night. Everyone is wearing ceremonial garments and they continue to chant about the importance of giving and the invisible. Miguel finds out that giving means “to be purged upon,” and that the invisible is a form of heaven. When the first cult member steps off the bus, as purge night begins, he initially seems confident and satisfied with his decision. However, once he begins to glance at the masked strangers in front of him, dangerously clutching their weapons, the fear begins to take over. He is brutally beaten to death in front of the bus, as Penelope watches in horror. Does she now realize the fatal consequences of these actions? Will Miguel be able to get to her before it’s too late? Stay tuned!

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

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

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

[twitter-follow screen_name=’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!

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

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

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Ranking the top 5 moments from “Fear the Walking Dead” season 4 episode 12: “I’m Not Gonna Leave Them Behind”

Happy Monday TV fans! After watching AMC’s Fear the Walking Dead season 4 episode 12, I realized that it’s important to hold on to memories and stories, but not at the expense of losing out on our own. While it’s sometimes easier to get lost in the past, we have to also remember that there are people counting on us in the present. Some days are going to be harder than others, but we can keep the stories going without losing ourselves in the process. Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet. In last night’s episode, “Weak,” we follow June and Al after the storm. Meanwhile, Morgan continues to try and help others, Al proves that knowing how to change a flat tire can save your life, and our new potential villain makes quite the statement. My top 5 moments from Fear the Walking Dead season 4 episode 12 are:

“I gotta try.”

During this episode, Morgan is still with Wendell, Sarah, and Jim, but he refuses to give up on his friends who need help. Morgan continues to use the walkie to reach out and explains that “somebody did the same for me once as long as he could.” We know that Morgan is referring to Rick and this moment is important, as we think back to the numerous times that Rick tried to leave messages and information for Morgan. Even though they were initially passing strangers, Rick didn’t give up on Morgan and Morgan recognizes the importance of doing the same for his friends for as long as he can.

“I’m not weak.”

Morgan spots our new potential villain by one of the “take what you need” boxes and tries to offer her help. He explains that the box saved his own life. The woman is quiet for a while, but then tells Morgan, “I don’t need any help. I’m not weak.” Morgan tells her that he will be on his way, but that she is more than welcome to take what she needs and she warns him, “You should be careful.” While this statement is ominous enough, we then see the woman tampering with the water bottle. What is her end game with this? Why is she trying so hard to destroy the good work of others? We’ll have to stay tuned to find out, but this is not the last we will see of her this episode.

“There isn’t any. Just wanted to get the van back.”

Al gets very sick during this episode, but is more concerned with getting her van back especially when she sees that someone has stolen it. Al begs June to go on foot and explains that there is medicine in the tank. June is hesitant to leave Al behind in her condition, but approaches the tank and meets a stranger who points a gun at her. The man tells her that “sometimes you can’t help people,” but June is determined to prove him wrong. After having trouble finding the medicine, she continues to radio to Al, who is busy avoiding getting killed by a walker. Al’s blurry vision is not helping matters, but she is able to put her surroundings to good use and kicks the car over and over until the tire jack gives out and the walker is brutally crushed. I don’t know about you, but I’m ready to learn how to change a flat tire just so I could put this skill to good use too. Al finally radios over to June and tells her that there is no medicine and she just wanted the van back. June is beyond upset by this, especially since she almost killed a stranger over it.

“How did you believe?”

In the beginning of the episode, June continues to watch the tape of John over and over until she kills the battery on the camera and also uses the walkie to talk to him. Even though she gets no response from John, she is able to open up and tell him what’s on her mind. She tells John that she should have never left him and that she’s not sure that she could have answered like he did when asked if he would ever find her again. In a vulnerable moment, June asks, “How did you believe?” June is having trouble believing in herself especially since she is surrounded by so much death and pain, but she is trying to be strong for John and for herself. June recognizes that she used to run away from everything and is trying so hard not to become that person again. However, every challenge that comes her way pushes her toward resorting back to that person. At the end of the episode, June radios out to the stranger she left behind and tells him that they are at mile marker 27, trying to do the right thing. Like Morgan, June is trying to make amends for what she did before, even if it means starting out with a simple conversation and a kind invitation. Even though it may take June a long time to figure out how to believe, she is certainly on the right path and John would be proud of her.

“I’m not gonna leave them behind.”

After June opens up to Al, she asks Al for the truth about the van, as she recognizes that there is clearly more to this story. Even though Al had previously said she had no time for her own story while she recorded the stories of others, she finally lets her wall down and tells June that the tapes and stories are all she has left. She explains that the people she knew and loved are on those tapes and she is not going to leave them behind. June tries to remind Al that “we’re here, we’re alive,” but Al initially wants to go off on her own. She has a change of heart; however, and tags along with June as they finally reunite with Morgan. This moment is important because we finally get a glimpse into Al’s own story and what’s important to her. Like June, Charlie, and Alicia, Al is desperately trying to cling to a memory or a story just to get by. While Al doesn’t have to leave these people behind entirely, she realizes that she can make room in her heart to help those that are there in the present, proving that she is strong, caring, and loyal. At the end of the episode, Quinn, the stranger June spoke to, radios out to June that he is at mile marker 27 but no one is there. We quickly learn that it was a trap set by our new villain who sicks her pet walker on him, killing him. She kicks the walker out and now writes on Quinn’s face, but what is her end game here? While her actions are beyond sick and twisted, there has to be more to the story. I’m absolutely concerned about the well-being of our favorite characters, as this new villain proves that she is not weak and is someone capable of destroying every last sliver of goodness and hope. It looks like we will get to determine the fate of Victor and John next week. Stay tuned!

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

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

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

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Ranking the top 5 moments from “Fear the Walking Dead” season 4 episode 11: “Take What You Need and Leave What You Don’t”

Happy Monday TV fans! After watching AMC’s Fear the Walking Dead season 4 episode 11, I realized that it’s important to recognize that no one is perfect, including ourselves. We can make the wrong decisions or try to justify our actions, but it’s never too late to try to make things right. Even the smallest gesture can make a world of difference, but you may not realize it until it happens to you. Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet. In last night’s episode, “The Code,” we follow Morgan’s journey after the hurricane and meet some new characters along the way. My top 5 moments from Fear the Walking Dead season 4 episode 11 are:

“Keep on truckin.”

In the beginning of the episode, Morgan accidentally hitches a ride on a truck after he initially takes shelter there to protect himself from the oncoming storm. Morgan finds boxes filled with supplies, all labeled with, “Take What You Need and Leave What You Don’t.” Morgan graciously takes a water bottle and a candy bar, but is shocked when he ends up at a truck stop in Mississippi. When Morgan goes inside, he speaks to someone over the radio who tells him to make himself at home and to take what he needs. The truck stop is filled with supplies and it’s amazing how this hasn’t been damaged or ransacked by anyone else yet. Morgan does not get the opportunity to enjoy too much peace and quiet, as he is interrupted by two new characters, Wendell and Sarah, played by Daryl Mitchell and Mo Collins. Morgan is impressed by their work, but everyone is a little hesitant to trust the other, as Wendell continuously keeps his gun pointed at Morgan. Morgan learns that the hurricane was absolutely devastating and worries about the safety of his friends. Wendell and Sarah loan him a car and give him some supplies and initially seem to be trustworthy, but we can never be too careful on Fear the Walking Dead.

“History is built on beer.”

When Morgan approaches the bridge, he stands there for a while and contemplates whether he should go back and help his friends or not. He lies to Wendell and Sarah over the radio and tells them that the bridge is out and that he is coming back so that they can all go to Virginia together. On the way, Morgan spots a man running from walkers with a bag over his head. Morgan saves him and we are introduced to another new character, Jim, who is played by Aaron Stanford. Jim and Morgan seem to hit it off right away and Morgan learns that Jim makes his own beer. He asks Morgan, “You got a point to life or you looking for one?” Morgan explains that he is just trying to find his way home and lets Jim know that the people there are trying to rebuild, which could be a potential new business venture for Jim. It’s clear that Jim has been tucked away in his brewery for a while, not really too exposed to the horrific things going on in the world, but he keeps his brutal honesty and sense of humor intact.

“Guess we’re not the only ones pretending to be something we’re not.”

It seems like everything is going smoothly until Jim begins running away from the truck. We quickly learn that Wendell and Sarah were responsible for kidnapping him and Morgan learns that they stole the truck from a man in Texas who was truly trying to live by the code and help others. Wendell and Sarah are interested in going to Virginia, but Morgan is reluctant to give them this information, knowing that they do not have the best of intentions. Jim jumps on board as well after agreeing to supply Sarah with as much beer as she wants. Tough sell, but it’s a deal. While unloading the truck to keep moving, a small group of walkers approaches and Morgan ends up trapped on top of a car completely surrounded with his hands still tied behind his back. Morgan asks for help and is shocked when Sarah, Wendell, and Jim all decide to pass on saving him even after he gives them directions to Virginia. Sarah tells Morgan that they knew the bridge wasn’t out, reminding Morgan that he is not so different from them. They leave Morgan alone who is now left with quite the difficult task, but if there is anyone who can get out of a jam, it’s Morgan Jones.

“I am a coward.”

Nightfall soon approaches and Morgan is still trapped on top of the car; however, he does have the walkie talkie and decides to try and get through to Wendell, Sarah, and Jim. Morgan admits that he could have crossed the bridge, but explains that he is a coward. He says that he felt like his friends needed something and it was something he couldn’t give them. Morgan feared what would happen if he went back and thought he might just make things worse. He then tells Wendell, Sarah, and Jim that maybe they could come back for him just so that he can do the right thing. This moment is important because Morgan clearly realizes that he made a mistake and just wants the opportunity to make things right. He consciously decided to abandon his friends and keep on moving, but now realizes that the smallest gesture can make a difference. He may not be able to truly help his friends, but he wants to get the chance to at least try.

“We’re going to make some stops along the way.”

Morgan is ultimately able to jump off the car and free himself, thanks to a “take what you need” box and even uses the mile marker as a convenient weapon. He radios to Wendell and Sarah that they were wrong about the boxes doing no good. Morgan heads toward the bridge to go back and help his friends, but the truck is there waiting for him. Wendell and Sarah eventually realized that he gave the wrong directions and demand to know how to get to Virginia. Morgan offers them a compromise and explains that he wants to pick up his friends first and then they can all go to Virginia together. He also explains that they are going to make some stop along the way, as Morgan sticks to the route of leaving “take what you need” boxes at mile markers ending in the number 4. Morgan radios out to whoever he initially spoke to at the truck stop and says they are going to try and bring the truck back to them; only we learn that a new potential enemy is listening in. What will happen when she crosses paths with Morgan? Stay tuned!

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

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

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

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

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

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

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

“You can never make up for it.”

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

“Why did you save me?”

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

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

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

“I can’t end up like them.”

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

“Close your eyes…”

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

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

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

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

[twitter-follow screen_name=’TV_Fanatic_Girl’]

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

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Ranking the top 5 moments from “The Affair” season 4 episode 10 Season Finale: “We are just so Lucky to be Alive”

Happy Sunday TV fans! After watching Showtime’s The Affair, I realized that life can be messy and unpredictable. Sometimes the big moments all happen at once and sometimes we don’t even see them coming. We can’t ever truly prepare ourselves for these moments, but it’s important to remember that we are lucky to be alive as Noah said and that each new day can bring a glimmer of hope that things can get better. It may take time and our pain and grief may never fade away entirely, but it’s important to keep fighting and surviving for those around us. Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet. In tonight’s episode, “410,” Noah tries to distract himself from his own grief by staying with Anton at Princeton, but he quickly realizes that there is somewhere else he needs to be. Meanwhile, Cole has an extremely difficult time at Alison’s funeral and Helen tries to juggle her daughter’s return along with some shocking news from Sierra, all while Vik’s illness takes a turn for the worst. My top 5 moments from The Affair season 4 episode 10 season finale are:

“You shouldn’t be here.”

Part one of the episode is from Noah’s perspective and he is still with Anton at Princeton. Noah catches up with an old friend from school and he sits in on her writing class. The students are beyond excited to meet Noah and tell him that he is the reason why they became writers and Noah explains that writing characters is all about listening to people. Anton has truly perfected this difficult task when he reads his piece about a character that is a contradiction and describes Noah. He starts out talking about how Noah is an inspiration and someone who truly wants to teach and be there for his students, but things take an unexpected turn when he then says, “He believes in my future…also he’s fucking my mother.” Noah is upset at Anton and asks him why he would do that after all he has done for him. Anton has certainly reached his full potential, but we know that Noah has a difficult time taking a good look in the mirror sometimes. While he was initially upset with Anton’s words, he quickly realizes where Anton is coming from and appreciates when he says that he is sorry about Alison. Noah is asked a few times what he is doing there and he finally realizes that it’s time to leave and deal with what has happened to Alison. Anton thanks Noah for everything he has done for him and I have to say that it’s about time Noah has had a true connection with someone. He may have trouble finding happiness with the women in his life, but he believed in Anton and helped him get on the right path.

“Can you please stop calling me Helen?”

“Surprise!” Whitney is back with her boyfriend and is ready to stir things up per usual. Helen is very happy to see her daughter, but she has been dealing with a lot of stress and Vik has been in the hospital because of an infection. Helen does her best to tell Whitney about everything, but Whitney makes everything about her, proving that she hasn’t really changed very much since we last saw her. Whitney attacks her mother and says, “I have my shit together, why can’t you?” As if this moment wasn’t already chaotic enough, Sierra stops by with a “white butterfly,” and tells Helen that she needs to talk to her. The phone then rings and Vik’s mother tells Helen that Vik is not doing well, as the whirlwind of stress escalates even further. It’s understandable that Helen is having a difficult time coping with all of this at once and she manages to keep her dry sense of humor through it all, making me cheer for her that much more.

“How could you of all people be gone?”

In part two, we see everything from Cole’s perspective, as he prepares for Alison’s funeral. We do get to hear Noah’s words about Alison at the service which are very moving and heartbreaking. Noah says, “You were magic, you were light…you were wild, you were brave. You made me see the world with new eyes…with wonder.” Noah’s words were so romantic and moving. While Cole has a difficult time finding the words, Noah paints a beautiful picture of Alison Bailey. We see several old characters at the service like Oscar and Jane and even Ben makes a surprise guest appearance. While this was very unsettling for me, Noah’s words really impacted me and I think he was able to speak for Cole as well, who is more about action rather than words. We all grieve in our own way, but Alison was truly someone special and she will be missed by everyone.

“I was too late. I am always too late.”

During the funeral for Alison, Cole is very upset with Athena, knowing that Alison would truly hate the idea of her ashes being scattered into the ocean. When it is Cole’s time to speak, he grabs the urn and runs away from everyone and everything. He ends up at Gabriel’s grave and sits there for quite a while. Noah goes to speak to him and tries to remind him that he is not the only one who loved her and that this moment was important for Athena. Later on, Cherry goes to see her son and Cole confides in her that he was coming back for Alison, but that he was too late, which is beyond heartbreaking. Cherry lost her own husband to suicide and tries to explain that life is very messy and that she understands the desire to want to take control, but that we can’t always do so in every situation. Cherry explains that it takes time, but the pain may never truly disappear. However, she talks about Cole being a survivor and a fighter and more importantly, being there for Joanie. Cole and Luisa recognize that their relationship is over, but Cole wants to keep their marriage intact on paper so that she can get her citizenship and because she is an important person in Joanie’s life. While I’m not sure if this will go according to plan, Cole takes the time to take Joanie on a road trip away from everything. When he talks about death, he explains that people believe in different things and Joanie asks him what he believes. In a touching moment, Cole explains to his daughter that whenever she misses her mother, all she has to do is think about her and she will always be with her. This moment is truly important, as Cole takes his mother’s advice, understanding that there is no easy fix to this situation, but his purpose now is to be there for his daughter no matter what.

“We are just so lucky to be alive.”

Part three of the episode is from Helen’s perspective. After being shut out of the hospital room for not having a visitor’s pass, Helen finds out that Sierra is pregnant with Vik’s baby and is beyond shocked. Helen needs a moment away from everyone and confides in Noah. Helen tells Noah that she doesn’t know if she truly loves Vik the way she is supposed to; especially since it is not the way she loved Noah. The two continue to confide in each other about Alison and Vik and how they ended up where they are now. When Helen explains that she thinks she is broken and that Vik deserves better, Noah refuses to let her say this about herself. While he starts out telling Helen that she is snobby and overbearing, the compliment soon emerges when he says, “I don’t know anyone who’s tougher than you.” Helen is touched by this and Noah takes it a step further when he says that if he was dying, he would want Helen by his side. Helen and Noah have come so far and have had so many ups and downs, but this moment was truly something significant for me. Through it all, these two are still connected and have a bond and friendship that surpasses everything. While it may not be right for the two of them to be together romantically anymore, it’s clear that they both still care about one another very much. Noah’s words to Helen clearly help her, as she goes to see Vik and simply whispers to him over and over again, “I love you.” Helen knows that this is what Vik needs to hear, especially since he began breaking down that he should have listened to her about treatment and that he is not ready to die. Helen courageously goes to get Sierra in the waiting room and says, “Tell him now.” Helen understands that this is something that could truly help Vik, proving to be someone who is selfless and caring. The end of the episode reveals Helen walking up on the rooftop of the building, staring out at the sun and the city. While I was initially confused and anxious about this scene, I took it as Helen finally opening her eyes and embracing a new day and a life full of possibilities, truly connecting with the concept that she is lucky to be alive. There are still so many open doors left to explore in this series and I am beyond excited to see the conclusion in season 5. Stay tuned!

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

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

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Ranking the top 5 moments from “Fear the Walking Dead” season 4 episode 9: “Yesterday is Yesterday”

Happy Thursday TV fans! After watching AMC’s Fear the Walking Dead season 4 episode 9, I learned that it’s important to leave the past in the past, but what happens when the future is uncertain? Are we able to get through the day or do we find ourselves replaying moments that we can’t change? While we don’t know what the future holds, it’s important to keep Al’s words in mind: “Yesterday is yesterday, but today is today and God knows if there’ll be a tomorrow.” Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet. In last night’s episode, “People Like Us,” Morgan decides that it is time to return home, now understanding that Rick was right all along. Meanwhile, Alicia, Victor, and Luciana distract themselves in different ways and June confides in Al about John. My top 5 moments from Fear the Walking Dead season 4 episode 9 are:

“There’s nothing for me anywhere.”

While Alicia handles her grief by isolating herself, Victor and Luciana remain inside the big house they found. Victor gets through the day by drowning himself in alcohol and Luciana tries to shut off everything around her by losing herself in the music from the record player. Morgan tries to convince both of them to come to Virginia with him. While Victor explains that he has had his “fair share” of road trips, Luciana’s response about there being nothing for her anywhere is hopeless and devastating. Nick’s death has clearly had a huge impact on her, but it’s truly heartbreaking to see her feeling so alone and isolated. Luciana needs someone to believe in again and maybe it’s the last person in the world you would ever think she would be invested in, but at least Charlie’s act to return the book, “The Little Prince,” got her out of the house.

“I just want to look him in the eye and tell him he was right.”

During the episode, Morgan recognizes that it’s time to return home and he asks that Al drive him there. He plans on leaving the next day and he shares that his friend was right all along. We know that Morgan is referring to Rick, but he had to see it for himself. Morgan thought that he needed to be away from people, but his experience with the people he met here reminded him that he can still do some good for those around him and make a difference. It’s great to see Morgan have a change of heart here and it’s important that he came to this epiphany on his own. Let’s just hope Morgan can get a chance to tell Rick all of this.

“Telling her brought me back to the world.”

Charlie is having a tough time in her new circumstances and doesn’t even call out for help when she is almost attacked by a walker. John Dorie is very concerned about her and tries to talk to her about it in the tank without any pressure. He understands what it feels like to have something eat away at you, especially guilt and regret. John explains that he found someone to talk to, meaning June, and says that “telling her brought me back to the world.” Hopefully Charlie can trust John or find someone else to confide in before it’s too late. His words do clearly resonate with Charlie, as she risks her life to try and take a step toward forgiveness by returning the book, “The Little Prince,” to Luciana. While she may never be forgiven completely, it is a step in the right direction.

“I’m not Laura.”

When Al and June go to investigate things down the river, June requests to talk to Al off the record. She confides in her about her concerns and fears, worrying that John will soon realize that she’s not “Laura,” the woman he fell in love with. June feels like she’s a woman who got scared and ran away and is defined by this. Al admits that she doesn’t really give advice, but tells June that she has been helping John everyday now and “that’s who you are now.”

“My mom would have saved him.”

Morgan is very concerned about Alicia who has been staying by the garden, isolating herself from everyone else. Alicia has been finding notes asking for help pinned to walkers and she distracts herself from the pain and grief swirling around inside of her by focusing on finding this person who needs help. Morgan agrees to assist her, as they follow the notes like a trail of breadcrumbs to the source. Morgan tries to caution Alicia about rushing in and the two team up to execute a plan. When Alicia reaches the man, she is devastated to find out that he has already turned. Morgan tries to explain that he has been like that for days and that she could not have saved him, but she tells him that her mom would have, which makes this moment truly heartbreaking. Alicia knows that she has a lot to make up for, but Morgan suggests something simpler like just being there for her friends since they clearly need her. This moment between Morgan and Alicia is real and honest. Morgan has felt exactly like Alicia, wanting to run away from everything and stay away from people, but now truly understands that this is not the way. Let’s hope that they both get a chance to help their friends before it’s too late. After all, it’s raining walkers and a storm is coming. Stay tuned!

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

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

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

[twitter-follow screen_name=’TV_Fanatic_Girl’]

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

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

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

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

The Search for Alice is available here!

Ranking the top 5 moments from “The Affair” season 4 episode 9: “I Just Want To Live A Different Life”

Happy Monday TV fans! After watching Showtime’s The Affair last night, I realized that it is never too late to try and change our own story. Alison Bailey is proof of that. Over the years, Alison has been broken, like a wounded bird, desperately trying to cling to some kind of temporary moment of bliss. Even though Alison began to make real changes in her life, her true metamorphosis occurred when she took Helen’s advice and decided to change her narrative, refusing to let men treat her a certain way. That made this episode even more tragic, dark, and heartbreaking for me. I was so proud of Alison’s strength here, but sometimes there is a darkness in others that tries to stifle even the faintest light, dragging it deep into the ocean. But not everything stays beneath the surface for long. Please note major spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet. In last night’s episode, “409,” Alison prepares for her conversation with Ben and confronts him about his lie. While the temptation remains, Alison focuses all of her energy on doing the right thing and finding out the truth. Alison’s fate is finally revealed to the audience, which is both shocking and devastating. My top 5 moments from The Affair season 4 episode 9 are:

“All I want is to somehow be forgiven.”

Part one of the episode is from Alison’s perspective, as she anxiously waits for Ben to arrive. When he shows up, Alison does her best to keep the conversation going and explains that she has some things she wants to address with Ben. Before she can get a chance, Ben reveals to Alison that he is married and that he has just left his wife. Alison explains that she already knew this information and that she is “done being a woman you lie to your wife about.” After all, Alison has already lived through this before and she knows that “it doesn’t end well.” Ben opens up to Alison and tells her about his time as a soldier in Afghanistan and how he killed a kid by mistake, which has left him with a never-ending hole of guilt, weighing down on his conscience constantly. He explains that he was not the same person when he returned and this impacted everything, including his marriage. Alison compassionately listens to him, understanding what it means to walk around with that pain every day.

“Don’t mess with my heart, OK?”

Ben agrees to fix Alison’s sink even after she tells him she can’t see him anymore and then she agrees to make him dinner. It seems like their break-up is amenable and I instantly began to question everything since we know that this is not the story that Ben told Cole and Noah. Ben asks Alison to dance with him and Alison asks him, “What happens to us? The ones who can’t be forgiven.” Ben answers that he wants to live and the two share a kiss. He asks Alison what she wants and she gives in to Ben and begins kissing him back. This leads to them making love and it seems like everything is perfect between them now. Only it’s too perfect and now we know why.

“Tell me the truth.”

Alison is cleaning up in the kitchen and hears a knock at the door. The rain is still pouring outside and she looks down at the sink, which is now broken again. When she opens the door, Ben is standing there and part two from Alison’s perspective begins. One of the reasons why I adore this show so much is because we get to see things from different perspectives. Usually each story has its own version or variation of the truth, but we ultimately get to peek into the hearts and minds of our favorite characters. When part two opened up with Alison again, I realized that the first part was merely a dream or a fantasy of what could be. Reality was now at the door and I was on the edge of my seat, fearing for the worst. When Alison tells Ben she needs to talk to him, he is no longer kind and gentle like in the first part. He tells her never to stand him up again and is clearly angry and on edge. Ben begins drinking when he tells Alison about his time in Afghanistan, which now reveals that Ben knew that the kid he killed was not holding a real weapon. Alison tries to ask him why he would do this and his anger begins to escalate even further.

“I don’t owe you a thing.”

We know that Ben has a problem with drinking and his behavior begins to become erratic. He breaks down when Alison tells him to leave and cries in her lap and begs her to be with him. Alison has had enough; however, and is ready to embrace the strong woman within. She tells Ben she knows that he is married and it’s like a new darkness comes over Ben. He is now suddenly calmer, but the danger is nowhere near gone. He tells Alison that she better not tell his wife, threatening her. Alison tells him that she won’t if he leaves and he turns everything around on her. Ben tells Alison that she broke up other marriages and that he will only leave if she admits that this is her fault. Alison stays strong and tells Ben, “I don’t owe you a thing.” While I was so proud of Alison in this moment, I feared what would happen next. Ben attacks Alison and hits her over the head. As the blood rushes down on Alison’s face, her life began pouring out of her. While I was hoping to be wrong about Ben, the reality of him being Alison’s murderer became painfully obvious when I realized that there were no other characters in this episode at the beginning of part two.

“I just want to live a different life. I want to live a different story.”

At the end of the episode, we see Ben dumping Alison’s body into the ocean by the rocks. Alison’s last monologue is heard, which is beyond heartbreaking. Alison talks about wanting to live a different life or story so that she could be someone who could be happy. She took Helen’s advice and finally tried to be strong and stand up for herself, but Ben refused to allow her the chance at a fresh start. We see Alison’s body sinking to the bottom of the ocean, as this life is over for her. In this moment, I wanted nothing more for Alison than for her to get another chance. She has been through so much loss and pain along the way and it seems beyond unfair that her story ends just when she was starting to fight for the spark of life that had been trapped away for so long. This episode was compelling and dark, revealing the ugliness that can lurk beneath the surface. Alison was not perfect and she was completely aware of this, but she didn’t deserve what happened to her and I am hoping that Cole gets the chance to bring Ben to justice. While Alison’s story may be over, Cole’s love for her will not burn out, keeping her memory alive. Farewell Alison. You deserved better. Stay tuned!

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

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

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