Tag: fans

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Fear the Walking Dead” season 4 episode 15: “Jimbo’s Beerbos”

Happy Monday TV fans!  After watching AMC’s Fear the Walking Dead season 4 episode 15, I realized that even though we may want to handle things ourselves, it’s OK to ask for help sometimes.  While we may be able to survive on our own, we can’t truly live without the love and support of those around us.  That’s what it means to have a family.  You’re there for one another through the good times and the bad and through the joy and the sorrow.  It’s never too late to do the right thing, even if you were once considered a “Class A Asshole.”  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet.  In last night’s episode, “I Lose People…” Morgan and the others try to figure out a way to get off the rooftop to safety and are determined to find Al.  Meanwhile, Alicia and Charlie attempt to save John and Victor and end up crossing paths with Martha on the way.  My top 5 moments from Fear the Walking Dead season 4 episode 15 are:

5

“Poetry in a bottle.  That’s you too.”

In the beginning of the episode, Morgan is desperately trying to figure out a way off the rooftop.  While he tries to figure this all out, Jim takes his frustration out on his situation by urinating on the walkers below, explaining that it’s “the only FU I got here.”  Even though Jim knows he has a death sentence, he still insists on blaming Morgan for everything.  Morgan tries to explain to Jim that he can decide how he goes and that he can still help and make a difference, but Jim is not on board.  Sarah asks Jim for the recipe to his beer, explaining that it’s “poetry in a bottle.  That’s you too.  That can live on.”  While Sarah is absolutely right, Jim is not ready to accept this just yet and initially declines giving her the recipe, earning his deserving new title:  “Class A Asshole.”  While I can understand why Jim has a lot of mixed emotions swirling around inside him right now, he has the chance to do some real good in his final moments, but will he continue to waste them complaining about his circumstances?

4

“Find my goddamn tapes and keep them safe.”

Morgan and the others try to go back the way they came, looking for Al by the generator and Sarah finds a note from her.  The group learns that Al’s Walkie died and that she is headed for the freight elevator to find a way out.  Al asks the group to find her tapes and keep them safe.  She also reminds them that “if you find that C word, settle her shit.”  Sarah hilariously adds “she didn’t use the C word.  She went for the full quesadilla.”  While we have yet to see Al, it is safe to assume that she is alive especially since we see her in the preview for the season finale next week.  However, we know that some of our main characters appeared in flashbacks and other episodes even after they had died so no one is really that safe on Fear TWD.  Either way, I am rooting for Al and I want to see her continue her story on the show.  Al is tough and fully capable of taking care of herself, but Martha continues to threaten everyone in the group.  Something tells me that she is no match for Al, however.  After all, Martha stole Al’s van and Al is definitely not about to let this go.

3

“It appears to be the cocktail hour.”

At the end of last week’s episode, we were left wondering who Alicia and Charlie spotted across the water.  We have now confirmed that it was in fact John and Victor.  I love a good reunion on this show and it was nice to see John’s lack of faith restored, especially after he got to speak to June.  Alicia and Charlie went looking for a boat, but ran into some trouble along the way when Martha began shooting at them.  Martha is severely injured, but is continuing to cause trouble.  Alicia and Charlie decide to take her with them, remembering that Morgan wanted to help her, but is this really the right call?  They say keep your friends close and your enemies closer, but Martha is a little bit too close for comfort for me, even though her hands are restrained.  Either way, Alicia drives the tank through the water and picks up her friends, providing us with a much needed glimmer of hope.

2

“You told me to help people.  That’s what I’m doing.”

Morgan decides to create a distraction to help his friends make it out of the hospital, accepting that he will be left behind.  To Morgan’s surprise, everyone comes back to help save him with a fire truck.  The ladder still works, but is a little bit out of reach for Morgan.  Everyone radios to Morgan that they are there to help him and it’s wonderful to see that someone so initially against being around other people has made such a difference and brought so many people together.  Many of the characters have been lost or broken, but somehow they are all here now to help protect their family, refusing to leave anyone behind.  Morgan has done so much good here without even realizing it, but he now has to safely make it to the ladder.  This task is already challenging, but of course we need to throw in an angry walker to spice things up, almost killing Morgan at the edge of the balcony.  Luckily, John still has excellent aim and eliminates the threat and Morgan makes it to the truck.  Now about all these walkers surrounding them…

1

“It’s OK Morgan.  I got this.”

The group is completely surrounded by walkers and Morgan once again contemplates going off on his own to help them escape.  Jim finally steps up to the plate and is ready to help his friends and die with dignity.  Jim radios his beer recipe to Sarah and tells her to keep the last component a secret.  Jim gives the group the distraction they need when he jumps off the rooftop and lands on a parked car, setting off another alarm so his friends can get away.  This moment is truly important because Jim was so initially focused on his own circumstances.  After watching the selfless actions of everyone around him, Jim finally realizes that he can determine how he goes out just like Morgan said to him.  Jim has redeemed himself and his memory will absolutely live on with his beer.  From “Class A Asshole” to redeemed hero.  I like the sound of that.  Sarah and the others decide on calling the beer “Jimbo’s Beerbos,” which Morgan says he would have probably hated, but I have to admit that I definitely like the sound of it.  Morgan suggests that they find Al and all head to Virginia together, which seems like a good enough plan, but Martha has somehow escaped and has now recruited poor walker Jim to her cause, making him her next pet.  While Morgan has stated that he wants to help Martha, I think that she is too far gone at this point.  Will he realize this before it’s too late?  Stay tuned for the season finale next week!

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!

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

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

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

The Search for Alice is available here!

The Search for Alice Cover

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Shameless” season 9 episode 3: “S&M is not like Riding a Bike”

Happy Sunday TV fans!  After watching Showtime’s Shameless season 9 episode 3, I realized that it’s sometimes necessary to update your image.  Whether that means updating your wardrobe to a pant suit, turning your bar from “rapey” to “Certifide Vagina Safe,” misspelling intended, or dusting off your red leather boots to help a friend in need, Team Gallagher is ready for a makeover to help make a difference.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In tonight’s episode, “Weirdo Gallagher Vortex,” Fiona and Irish Ford clash after she closes her business deal, Liam goes to public school, and Lip tries to protect Xan.  Meanwhile, Ian tries out some new religions, Debbie experiments with a woman, and Frank continues to help Mo White with his campaign to make some cash.  My top 5 moments from Shameless season 9 episode 3 are:

5

“We need more dick.”

During the episode, Debbie grows closer to her new friend and they bond over welding their dick creations to the cars of men outside a strip club.  Debbie enjoys spending time with her new friend, but starts to question her own sexuality when she has a moment with her and makes out with her in the bathroom.  Even though Ian tells Debbie that she is not gay, she can’t ignore these new feelings surfacing.  Will Debbie explore these feelings further?  Is this a new possible relationship for her?

4

“Stop trying to save the world and save yourself.”

After getting out of jail, Ian is having a difficult time adjusting, no longer wanting to embrace the “Gay Jesus” title.  He tries to listen for “shim” or God, but is getting a busy signal.  Frank tells Ian that he needs to stick to traditional religions in order to find his enlightenment and Ian decides to give it a try.  After trying out Buddhism, Judaism, and Catholicism, Ian doesn’t find the answers he is looking for.  He is focused so much on hearing the words of “shim” or God and he doesn’t possess much patience when looking for his own “enlightenment.”  Later in the episode, Debbie sets Ian straight and tells him to “stop trying to save the world and save yourself.”  Will Ian take her advice?  We’ll have to stay tuned to find out, but I think it’s time for Ian to find a new calling.  Maybe one of a lesser power.

3

“So now you want a relationship?”

Fiona is beyond excited to sign off on her new business deal with Max, but Irish Ford reveals his jealousy over the situation.  Fiona is initially confused by his behavior especially since they don’t really have a label on their relationship and have been “hanging out.”  Fiona’s dog, Rusty, makes a special guest appearance and keeps her company while she eats her cheeseburger, while Irish Ford eats at the table alone.  After speaking with V, V reminds Fiona that “people get hurt when you leave your options open.”  She further explains that she initially told Kev, “you’re my man, I’m your girl, and if you’re not happy with that…I’ll kill you in your sleep.”  While I’m not sure that Fiona and Ford need to go to this extreme, perhaps it is time for them to take their relationship to an official level, especially since Ford seems to have gone above and beyond to get his “apology” right for Fiona.  Will Fiona’s new business partner threaten her relationship with Ford?  Ford has openly expressed not liking Max, but is there more to the story here?

2

“Bitch I’m not asking.”

Carl is continuing to change lives one dog at a time, but is still determined to get into West Point.  He later discovers that V knows Congressman Ubberman, who used to be one of her former dominatrix clients.  Carl asks V if she can help him at all since he needs his recommendation, but V hilariously explains that “S&M is not like riding a bike.”  After going through some of her old clothes, she finds her whip and “Lenora” is back and better than ever.  V shows off her dominatrix skills and gets Congressman Ubberman to agree to recommend Carl for West Point.  Mission accomplished!

1

“They made a list of the rapiest bars in the South Side and the Alibi is number 1.”

During the episode, Kev and V discover that they were included on this list.  While they are initially shocked, they begin to look around and notice all of the posters and art that glorify sex and objectify women.  Kev is determined to make the bar less “rapey,” to bring back female customers and more importantly, because “rapey is wrong,” as V gently reminds him.  Kev reminds everyone that they should not refer to women as “chicks” and should perhaps try out “vaginal enterprises.”  V is not amused and he goes with “women” instead.  Kev tries to make sure the television programming is friendly for women, drinks like “Sex on the Beach” will now just simply be “The Beach,” and he even creates consent forms as well to ensure maximum safety.  Kev begins tracking his process and creates a chalk board sign on the back of the door that says, “Hours Since Last Rapey Talk.”  Kev is excited to start off with 2, but quickly has to change this back to 0 after Mo White reveals the truth about his past and an underage girl.  Kev is determined to make women feel safe in the bar and finally places his sign on the window, which says, “Certifide Vagina Safe,” complete with a drawing of what I can only assume is a vagina with boxing gloves.  While spelling has never been Kev’s strong suit, he is definitely putting forth a lot of effort to make everyone feel safe at his bar.  I guess it’s the thought that counts.  Stay tuned!

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

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!

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

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

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

The Search for Alice is available here!

The Search for Alice Cover

Ranking the top 5 moments from “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” season 13 episode 3: “The Gang Beats Boggs: Ladies Reboot”

Happy Friday TV fans!  After watching the FXX network’s It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia season 13 episode 3 last night, I realized that women really do need to stick together.  Only I’m not so sure that this much alcohol, moon charts, and maximum gross outs should be involved.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet.  In last night’s episode, “The Gang Beats Boggs:  Ladies Reboot,” Dee tries to do the “Boggs thing” once again, but she wants to make it even better.  Naturally, she comes up with the idea of an all Ladies Reboot with the Waitress, Artemis, Mrs. Kelly, and Mrs. Mac.  The Boggs competition doesn’t go exactly as planned and we quickly learn that some other characters have boarded the plane as well, threatening Dee’s chances at being crowned the winner.  My top 5 moments from It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia season 13 episode 3 are:

5

“You already did this.”

Dee is very excited to be on an all female flight to a women’s march, only her guests quickly learn that they are actually on the flight to compete in the Wade Boggs challenge.  Artemis reminds her that she already did this with the guys, but Dee hilariously explains that “it’s the same exact thing but it’s with women so it’s a new idea.”  Artemis and the others are not as excited to participate and suggest that they use a woman athlete or celebrity for inspiration, but Dee is not buying it saying, “The Boggs thing just feels more fun.”  “The Gang Beats Boggs” is one of my favorite episodes and I was instantly hooked as soon as I learned about the premise for this episode, but Dee definitely has big shoes to fill with her “Ladies Reboot.”

4

“In every reboot you need someone from the original to make a cameo.”

An excellent point actually, but Dee is not amused at all to see Frank on the plane.  Frank took this opportunity to score some points with the ladies on board, but Dee finds his presence to be a distraction.  To make matters worse, Dee receives a face time request on her phone from Charlie and Mac who ask her about doing the Boggs thing and make fun of her progress documented on her shirt so far.  Dee is determined more than ever to prove that she can win the competition and make her Boggs reboot even more successful.

3

“How do I keep winding up with you people?”

When the beer supply is running low, Dee looks for the help of the “man servant” on board and we are greeted by an old friend:  the waiter from Gugino’s.  I was instantly amused by his presence and “The Gang Dines Out” is another one of my all time favorite episodes.  Read more Ranking the top 5 episodes from “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia”  here.  Like always, Dee does not remember who he is, even though she is responsible for tying his shoelaces together, causing him to trip and fall into a plate of spaghetti.  Classic!  Dee tries to tell him that they are doing “the Boggs thing,” but he doesn’t have the slightest idea about what she is talking about.  Dee quickly learns that they do not have beer and that they will need to switch to Pink Wine for the remainder of the challenge.  Even though the obstacles keep coming Dee’s way, she is determined to keep going.

2

“Watching a woman do math scares me.”

This is probably the moment on the show that made me laugh the hardest.  Mrs. Kelly is absolutely hilarious combined with her partner in crime, Mrs. Mac, who is actually quite talkative on the flight since she ate a bunch of her Nicotine packs, actually taking her role as Commissioner very seriously.  When Dee realizes that they need to switch to wine for the rest of the competition, she starts to calculate the conversion of the alcohol percentage and comes up with the number 29 to win.  Dee has been in the lead, but the Waitress has been catching up to her very quickly.  When asked what her secret it is, she says, “I’m an alcoholic.”

1

“You’re my rival.  The only way to beat men is to compete against other women.”

Dee is determined to win the Boggs competition and initially recognizes her only true rival as the Waitress.  She tries to keep the Waitress motivated, but the Waitress gets distracted after hearing about Dennis and once again deciding to have sex with Frank.  Dee tries to get into first class and we are greeted by another old friend:  Gail the Snail.  Gail asks Dee if she lost her invitation, but Dee honestly responds by saying, “I didn’t invite you because you’re the worst.”  Dee tries throwing salt on Gail, which is really the only effective way to get rid of her, but Gail reveals that she has been playing the game too and is currently beating Dee.  Dee accepts the challenge, but no one saw Artemis coming, who decided to spike everyone’s magic tea, creating a “maximum gross out.”  Dee is too sick to continue on the flight and is forced to get off at North Dakota with 28 written on her forehead.  So close, but so far away.  Mrs. Kelly and Mrs. Mac are the only ones to arrive in California, standing on the baseball mound not really knowing what to do next.  While “The Gang Beats Boggs” is a classic episode for me, Dee really did try her best to keep up with the men and gave us some laugh out loud moments for sure.  Stay tuned!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts on It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia below in the comments section.  Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

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!

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

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

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

The Search for Alice is available here!

The Search for Alice Cover

Ranking the top 5 moments from “American Horror Story: Apocalypse” season 8 episode 2: “What is this, the Hunger Games?”

Happy Thursday TV fans!  After watching the FX network’s American Horror Story:  Apocalypse season 8 episode 2 last night, we witnessed several Easter eggs from previous seasons, foreshadowing the return of some of our favorite characters.  While we don’t know what to expect just yet, these glimpses and hints are not to be ignored.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet.  In last night’s episode, “The Morning After,” Mr. Langdon makes an announcement to the group and explains that he will be conducting a series of questions to find out who is worthy of “cooperating” and joining “The Sanctuary.”  Meanwhile, Timothy and Emily discover Ms. Venable’s deceit and grow closer as a result, Mr. Gallant has a visitor at his door, and we get a fresh new ingredient for dinner.  Anything should be better than Stu, right?  My top 5 moments from American Horror Story:  Apocalypse season 8 episode 2 are:

5

“I thought everything outside was dead.”

In the beginning of the episode, Timothy and Emily are horrified by the presence of snakes in Outpost 3.  Ms. Mead is excited by a new protein for dinner, but everyone else is not so sure.  After all, they have just been traumatized over possibly eating Stu in their stew.  Sorry I can’t let that one go just yet.  The snake soup does not look too appetizing, but the snakes resurrect and are alive when dinner is officially served.  While this moment is horrifying, it also reminds us that this is considered a form of resurrection.  We know that the snakes are not the only ones to come back to life in this new world.  Who’s next?  We’ll have to wait and see, but this absolutely screams “Coven.”

4

“I won’t sugar coat the situation.”

Mr. Langdon quickly introduces himself to the rest of the group and informs them that the rest of the Outposts have been overrun by some kind of “feral cannibals.”  Mr. Langdon explains that The Cooperative had a fail-safe in place and that they have an outpost called “The Sanctuary,” which has security measures protecting it to ensure its survival along with the humans who reside in it.  The group learns that Mr. Langdon has been sent to determine who is worthy of joining “The Sanctuary,” which will involve a series of questions.  Mr. Gallant is the first one to “volunteer as tribute.”  Insert “Hunger Games” joke here, which I thought seemed appropriate since Coco hilariously cried out, “what is this, the Hunger Games?”  Mr. Langdon explains to Mr. Gallant that he will know if he is lying or trying to trick him.  Does this mean that Mr. Langdon possesses some kind of supernatural powers and abilities?  While we are not too sure of this yet, it definitely appears like we are being pointed in that direction.

3

“You’re a fighter.  I like that about you.”

Later in the episode, Mr. Langdon speaks to Ms. Venable in her chambers and reminds her that “complete abstinence” was not part of the rules and that this could be determined punishable by death.  It makes us wonder why Ms. Venable felt the need to enforce this rule so much.  There clearly seems to be a common trend so far of “lust,” creeping into the walls of Outpost 3, which brings us back to Ryan Murphy connecting the seasons of AHS to the “Nine Circles of Hell” from Dante’s Inferno.  You can read more on this theory here! Mr. Langdon recognizes Ms. Venable as a fighter and reminds her that “there’s no need for us to be adversaries.”  He further explains that he wants to see the part of her that humiliates her the most, ordering for her to remove her dress.  Ms. Venable finally shows us some real vulnerability here and hesitantly unzips the back of her dress, revealing some kind of deformity and scarring on her back.  Ms. Venable asks if she has passed the test, but Mr. Langdon coldly replies, “No.”  Before they can get any further, they are interrupted by Ms. Mead who requires Ms. Venable’s immediate attention.

2

“Is this phase 2 of the interview?”

When Mr. Gallant is questioned by Mr. Langdon, there is an underlying sexual tension throughout their conversation.  Mr. Langdon asks Mr. Gallant to tell him about his anger and immediately links it to his grandmother, recognizing that Mr. Gallant has some untamed hatred brewing inside of him.  Later on, there is a knock at Mr. Gallant’s door and he is greeted by an old friend of AHS:  The Rubber Man.  The man is dressed in black latex head to toe and Mr. Gallant’s grandmother discovers them having sex.  Fans will remember that The Rubber Man is revealed to be Tate from AHS:  Murder House (season one), also played by Evan Peters.  This makes things beyond confusing, but it is possible that someone else has embraced the suit, but we will have to wait and find out.  Mr. Gallant’s grandmother reports his behavior, looking out for her own survival and Mr. Gallant is whipped repeatedly by Ms. Mead.  Later on, Mr. Langdon tells him that he has never been to his room and that his neediness and desperation disgust him.  He harshly tells Mr. Gallant that he would not be with him if he was the last man on earth and they are pretty close to that very scenario.  Mr. Gallant is very upset by this cruel rejection and to make matters worse, his own grandmother refuses to accept him as well.  Later on, Mr. Gallant follows the Rubber Man and turns the tables on him, stabbing him for shaming him.  Only he quickly realizes that he has stabbed his grandmother to death instead, now seeing her corpse before his eyes.  Mr. Gallant is horrified by what he has done, just in desperate need for someone to love and accept him.  The damage is done, but we’ll have to wait and see if there are consequences for his actions.

1

“What are we doing?”

During the episode, Timothy and Emily sneak into Mr. Langdon’s room and find his laptop.  They are initially confused on how he can communicate with anyone, but assume it must be some type of satellite.  They read through some of the emails and learn that Ms. Venable has been making up the rules as she goes, particularly about the mandatory abstinence.  Timothy and Emily take things further with their blossoming relationship and it is implied that they do have sex.  Ms. Mead barges into the bedroom when they are sleeping and takes them to be punished.  Emily cries out to Ms. Venable that she knows the rules are not real, but they are still taken away.  A gun is pulled on Timothy and he courageously fights back and gets a hold of the gun.  Ms. Mead is shot and another shock is thrown our way.  Ms. Mead takes a look at her wound and we see some kind of white liquid coming out of it, which is definitely not human.  Is she a robot or something else?  I’m not sure, but it looks like we are in for more and more twists and turns.  Stay tuned!

P.S. fun fact:  Did you notice “The Morning After” song changed over to a song featuring Stevie Nicks?  Is it possible we will see her again along with some of our other favorites from Coven?

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own theories and thoughts on American Horror Story:  Apocalypse 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!

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

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

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

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

The Search for Alice is available here!

The Search for Alice Cover

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Fear the Walking Dead” season 4 episode 14: “I Just Need Something To Be Good”

Happy Monday TV fans!  After watching AMC’s Fear the Walking Dead season 4 episode 14, Wendell reminded us that “bad shit happens when you try to help people,” but that doesn’t mean that you need to give up on others even if they have given up on you.  While we can understand the actions and motives of others, it takes true strength and courage to be able to continue to help, especially when we know that others may not do the same in return.  So do we become like everyone else or do we continue to do good deeds in the world even if there is no one left to appreciate it?  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet.  In last night’s episode, “MM 54,” we learn that the mysterious lady villain is named Martha and we witness how she started down her dark path of destruction.  Meanwhile, Morgan tries to protect the group, Jim kills his first walker, and Alicia tries to keep her promise to Charlie.  My top 5 moments from Fear the Walking Dead season 4 episode 14 are:

5

“I don’t help and neither do you.”

In the beginning of the episode, we are at mile marker 54 and witness the lady villain, Martha, in a car with her husband.  Her husband has been injured severely and is losing a lot of blood, but Martha tries to stay positive and frantically waves at cars passing them by.  “Someone will help us.  Someone will come.”  Only the reality of her situation sets in all too quickly, as no one bothers to stop and help her.  Martha encounters a walker and takes it out and watches her husband die.  She eliminates the threat when he turns and buries his body.  In a heartbreaking moment, Martha lies down next to the fresh grave, feeling helpless and weak.  We also witness her pacing back and forth and talking to herself as well, as she encounters an emotional or psychotic break.  Later on, we see one of the trucks stop by the road to leave a box and Martha viciously kills the woman.  She continues on her journey and takes out many of the volunteers, trying to get closer and closer to “polar bear,” the man who started it all.  We also finally witness how Martha intercepted Morgan’s radio call when she hears him at the truck stop and initially thinks he could be the infamous “polar bear.”  While we witness the creation of a villain before our very eyes, it is truly heartbreaking to see that Martha was once a good and loving person.  Is it too late for her to be redeemed, however?

4

“I didn’t agree with their code of conduct.”

Morgan and the others seek out shelter at a nearby hospital after Martha opens fire on their truck.  The truck explodes and there is a large group of walkers headed their way, leaving not much room for error.  June wants to ensure that those who are hurt are all right and Wendell is down a wheelchair as well.  Luckily, they are able to catch their breath for a little while and Wendell gets a new set of wheels.  During this time, we learn more about Wendell and Sarah’s past.  Wendell reveals that he saw a car coming and pushed someone out of the way to save them.  Even though he had a hard life ahead of him, Wendell thought it was his purpose to help other people.  When he tried to join the Marines, the recruiter laughed him out of the office, refusing to even take his application.  Sarah revealed to Al that she was in the Marines, but she left not on the best of terms.  We later learn that Sarah left because of what they did to her brother, Wendell.  While Al does not have her camera with her, the stories of others are still important to share, as we get to know Sarah and Wendell a little bit better.  While they initially seemed only selfish, we now understand more about them and realize that they are good people deep down.  They may be flawed and confused, but they are slowly coming around to doing the right thing.

3

“She’ll find a way up here.”

Morgan is nervous about staying in the hospital for too long and before he knows it, the walkers get in and all hell breaks loose.  Morgan quickly makes the decision for everyone to head upstairs, but the stairs are blocked on several entrances, filled with the dead.  Sarah and Al make their way up to the generator to get the elevator started, which is their only hope at this point.  Al makes the courageous decision to go alone and tells Sarah to get back to her brother, proving once again that she is a hero in the making.  Al gets the elevator started in just the nick of time and everyone makes it to the roof, but Al is left behind.  While they cannot get through to her on the radio, Luciana says, “She’s smart.  She’s resourceful.  She’ll find a way up here.”  Al has spent so much time hiding behind her camera and the stories of others and she is now creating a story of her very own, getting very much involved and putting her life on the line to save others.  Let’s hope that she will find a way out of there safely.

2

“He asked for my help.  To save him.”

When the walkers break in, Jim gets his first real encounter with one and begs Morgan to help him.  Only Morgan is a little busy fending off several at that point and tells Jim to hold on.  Jim is pinned to the floor and manages to finally kill one, realizing now how difficult this truly is.  Jim has survived all this time by avoiding situations like this and even contemplated running ahead of the group to safety, but ultimately had a change of heart and stayed with everyone.  However, Jim has been very quick to place the blame on Morgan whenever things don’t go their way.  When they get on the rooftop, June takes a look at his cut and discovers a bite mark on Jim.  Jim is beyond devastated and says, “I have beer to make,” refusing to accept his fate.  June explains that there is nothing she can do and is not sure how much time he has left.  I have to admit that I am sad to see Jim be on his way out so quickly.  I feel like there is still so much more potential for his character, but perhaps he will finally get to do something truly heroic and courageous to give his final moments a sense of purpose.  While making beer is clearly something he is passionate about, I feel like Jim still has a lot left in him to discover.  Let’s just hope he can realize it before he’s gone for good.  Morgan clearly feels guilty about Jim and says to June, “He asked for my help.  To save him.”  June reminds him that “You did.  As long as you could.”  June asks him what’s next and if he can get them out of here.  Morgan initially says that he can’t, but June tells him that he will, still believing in Morgan.

1

“I just need something to be good.”

During the episode, we see Alicia and Charlie, who make their way to the truck that Morgan was on.  Alicia sees all of the destruction and tells Charlie that they could be in any direction.  As they get further and further away, passing mile markers 103 and 108, Charlie asks where they are going and Alicia informs her that she is taking her to the beach, desperately trying to keep her promise to her.  Alicia explains that “we only have right now and who knows how long we’ll have that.  It’s one thing I know I can do.”  This moment is important for Alicia because she is trying so hard to do something good to keep the memory of her mother alive, clinging to any glimmer of hope she can find.  Charlie tries to tell Alicia that they should go back to help their friends.  While Alicia clearly wants to help Morgan and the others, she recognizes the uncertainty of their well-being.  Alicia can’t handle anything uncertain right now, as she needs to be able to deliver something good to help Charlie.  Alicia and Charlie soon come across water and find a place that was not on the map.  Charlie exclaims that it is a beach and they find John Dorie’s black hat in the water.  Charlie tells Alicia to look and she exclaims, “Holy shit!”  While we don’t know what she sees, it’s safe to say that they may have just found John and Victor.  Perhaps this is a sign that will remind Alicia that it’s all right to take chances to help those in need.  While Alicia may never completely heal, she is starting to mend her broken soul and being reunited with Victor may be enough to restore her faith again.  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!

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

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

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

The Search for Alice is available here!

The Search for Alice Cover

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Shameless” season 9 episode 2: “I’m going to eat every one of your goddamn bread sticks!”

Happy Sunday TV fans!  After watching Showtime’s Shameless season 9 episode 2, I brushed up on my vocabulary and used “artisanal” in a sentence.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In tonight’s episode, “Mo White!” Fiona is looking to invest in commercial property and enlists the help of her new intern, Liam, to close the deal.  Meanwhile, Ian is looking to return his get out of jail free card, Frank gets involved in politics, and Debbie comes up with a creative new slogan to get her point across about equal pay for women.  My top 5 moments from Shameless season 9 episode 2 are:

5

“I don’t eat pie.  Now you do.”

During the episode, Lip is preoccupied by Xan’s actions, but is stunned when someone asks him to be his sponsor at his AA meeting.  Initially Lip says he has to think about it and explains that “Gallaghers don’t sponsor.  They get sponsored.”  At the end of the episode, Lip has a change of heart and offers to sponsor the young man in need, recognizing that it is time to give back.  He tells him that they can get pie after the meeting and talk, but it looks like his new sponsee is not going to get a choice on the menu.  While Lip continues to grow closer to Xan, this new sponsor/sponsee relationship could be something truly significant for him and it’s absolutely a step in the right direction for Lip.

4

“I am a proud welder with a vagina.” 

After learning that she is making less than her male co-workers, Debbie continues her research on the subject and is shocked by her findings.  Debbie takes baby Franny with her to different construction sites and puts her megaphone skills to good use, trying to recruit other female employees to jump on board and fight the good fight.  Debbie’s slogan is definitely catchy, as she calls out, “I am a proud welder with a vagina!”  To Debbie’s disappointment, she doesn’t run into any female workers to recruit, but is surprised when someone pays her a visit at her home later on in the episode.  Debbie discovers that an employee she thought was a male is in fact a female and has been disguising herself at work.  Debbie doesn’t want to be rude, but does say, “You really look like a dude,” but it seems like this new potential friend doesn’t mind her brutal honesty.  To the shock of Debbie, she asks her out for a drink and tells her it’s a date.  I guess her speech was more inspiring than she realized.

3

“You’re both named Amy now.”

Kev and V are excited to explore preschool options for their energetic daughters and are absolutely impressed with the first place they see, which includes bunnies for all and princess costumes galore.  Kev even says, “This is where I want to go when I die.”  Unfortunately when they get to the paperwork, Kev is stunned by the number he sees and hilariously asks, “Is that a year in the future?”  Kev and V quickly learn that tuition for a month is triple the amount of their mortgage payments.  They begin researching some more “budget friendly” options, which consist of an “imagination area” in a back alley.  Finally, they come across a suitable option at a Catholic preschool, but learn that there is only one spot available.  Kev and V have a sit down with their daughters and explain that they will be wearing the same outfits and can never be in the same place at the same time.  Kev hilariously says, “You’re both named Amy now.  Jemma doesn’t exist anymore.”  The two girls nod in compliance, but it will be interesting to see how this unfolds since they don’t really follow directions too well.  Either way, Kev and V love Amy and “fake Amy” and are excited to enroll them into preschool.

2

“I like to cut things and watch them bleed.”

Carl is determined to get into West Point, but realizes that this will not be as easy as he initially anticipated.  He learns that he needs to complete community service and that his time served in juvy does not count.  When asked about his special skills, Carl enthusiastically explains that he has a “steady hand with a knife” and that he likes to “cut things and watch them bleed.”  The recruiter surprisingly has a recommendation for him and sends Carl to “Soothing Horizon.”  When Carl arrives, he learns that he will be putting dogs to sleep and is shocked to see the “gas chamber” van option the retired vet has in place.  When he meets one of the service dogs, Carl is not able to go through with this and decides to take all of the dogs home with him.  He tells the dogs that “the Gallagher basement beats the murder van” and I absolutely agree, as I was not sure I could watch Carl go through with this as a dog lover and owner myself.  Carl makes all of the dogs feel at home and when one dies naturally, he even goes all out to provide them with a traditional military funeral, but perhaps he should wait until everyone wakes up, as he decides to have this performed at 5am outside the Gallagher home.

1

“Where are we going?  To take what’s ours.”

During the episode, Fiona expresses an interest in investing in commercial real estate.  Irish Ford cautions her against this, but Fiona is determined to prove that she can excel here.  Fiona recruits the help of Liam who was expelled from school because of Frank’s actions.  “The sins of the father” and all that.  Liam shows off his own skills and helps Fiona quite a bit, proving to be an excellent intern with helpful information.  Liam helps Fiona negotiate over properties and she even works in some flashy lingo as well to show that she is a “savvy” business woman.  After being shown several properties, Fiona realizes that she wants to partner in on “Sunset Brook,” which is the new building for senior care in her neighborhood.  Fiona explains that she knows the neighborhood and the people here and that she would make an excellent partner and investor, but is initially turned down and obnoxiously hit on.  Fiona does some research at home and finds out that there are still partner spots available and crashes the investor’s dinner to prove that she means business.  Fiona doesn’t back down and tells him that she has 50K, or make that 100K, to invest.  She stands in front of the entire table and threatens that she will stay there and “eat every one of your goddamn bread sticks.”  Fiona closes the deal and is in business and I have to say that I absolutely love the partnership between her and Liam.  After all, they crushed it!  Now let’s hope that Liam can enroll in another school without an issue.  Stay tuned!

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

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!

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

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

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

The Search for Alice is available here!

The Search for Alice Cover

5 Reasons why you should watch “Outcast” on Cinemax: “Fireflies can see other fireflies.”

Do you love movies and shows about demonic possession?  Sure, who doesn’t?  However, it seems like television series centered on this are fading left and right.  Shows like Ash vs Evil Dead, The Exorcist, and Constantine have all been canceled.  South of Hell hasn’t aired a new episode since 2015 either, which leaves us with one flickering light to submerge us back into the darkness…Outcast.  Outcast is currently airing season 2 on Cinemax and there are only 2 episodes left this season.  You still have plenty of time to binge-watch seasons 1 and 2, however.  The show is created by Robert Kirkman (The Walking Dead) and is based on the comic series of the same name.  It follows Kyle Barnes, played by Patrick Fugit, who is surrounded by misfortune, as his close family members are possessed by demons, leading him on a path toward self-discovery and justice.  Kyle soon discovers that he has the ability to exorcise demons with merely his touch.  There has been a gap of time since we have seen new episodes, as season 1 aired on Cinemax in 2016 and season 2 just started airing in summer 2018, which can sometimes lead to a slower pace or a need to refresh our memories on who’s who in the demonic possession game.  However, the show does have many redeeming qualities and is definitely worth a watch and hopefully a pickup for season 3, which has yet to be determined.  Please note spoilers are ahead.  My top 5 reasons to watch Outcast are: 

5

Kyle Barnes is a hero you can truly relate to.

One of the things I love about Outcast is that the character of Kyle Barnes seems like an everyday guy that you would actually meet and want to be friends with.  There is nothing truly extraordinary about him and he has a humble presence.  Kyle always tries to do right by his family and frequently visits his mother in the hospital.  He also has a wife and young daughter who he loves very much.  You can immediately detect that Kyle is genuine and a good person.  This makes you truly sympathize with him when we see the people in his life getting possessed by demons.  To make matters worse, it seems like the blame always comes in his direction.  Even when Kyle discovers his abilities with the help of Reverend Anderson, played by Philip Glenister, Kyle is still the same man he has always been.  Only now, he is able to exorcise demons with merely the touch of his hand.  This is definitely more of a burden than a blessing, as Kyle realizes that he will continue to attract the attention and focus of those lurking in the darkness, targeting his family as well.

4

There is a formidable villain.

Meet Sidney.  While we still have a lot to find out about him, it appears that Sidney is the big bad on this series.  Whether he is the devil himself or something else, I’m not entirely sure, but he is always at the center of any darkness in town and sets his sights on Kyle and the Reverend, recognizing them as potential threats to “the merge,” which would give the demons a permanent home in the human vessels they are currently residing in from my understanding.  Part of what makes Sidney such a great villain is that he is so mysterious.  You are immediately drawn in and want to know more.  In season 2, Sidney is shown as more vulnerable, as his human host begins to fail on him, but Sidney is not someone to be taken lightly.  He is responsible for carving a pentagram into Reverend Anderson’s chest to demonstrate his power over him and he is fixated on shifting Kyle over to his side to use his abilities to further his own agenda.  If we think about the classic idea of good vs. evil, Sidney definitely embodies the epitome of evil.  Has he finally met his match with Kyle, however?  We’ll have to stay tuned to find out, but this is a battle I am absolutely looking forward to.

3

Strong female characters refuse to sit on the sidelines.

Even though a lot of the show is centered around Kyle and the Reverend, the strong female characters on the show don’t merely sit by and let them steal the spotlight.  Kyle’s wife, Allison, played by Kate Lyn Sheil, ends up attacking her own daughter when she is possessed, which is horrifying to watch.  In season 2, Allison is in some kind of psych ward or rehabilitation center and is being told that she needs to accept that she had some kind of psychotic break and that only she is responsible for what happened to her daughter while in a “dissociative state.”  While Allison initially seems weak and vulnerable, she has now become a supporting force to both her daughter and husband.  When Kyle is taken away in the hospital, she demands to see his body and refuses to let other people tell her what to do.  It’s about time Allison found her voice and inner strength.  Rose Giles, played by Charmin Lee, is the wife of the Sheriff and ends up witnessing quite a lot about demonic possession, as her husband joins in on the fight and is possessed himself in season 2.  In season 2, Rose takes matters into her own hands and lures in people who were possessed so that she can eliminate the threat herself.   Finally, let’s talk about Megan, played by Wrenn Schmidt, the foster sister of Kyle.  Megan was possessed at the end of season 1 and in the beginning of season 2, it’s like she is completely broken and a shell of her former self.  She completely blames herself for her husband’s death and even jumps into the water, contemplating drowning herself.  While under the water, Megan has a change of heart and realizes that she needs to live.  We soon learn that Megan is pregnant and some view her unborn child as a potential threat, recognizing that the seed of the demon could still be present.  While I’m interested to see how this story plays out, Megan is trying her best to believe in and support her brother and be strong for her family.

2

Megan’s possession.

Since the show is on Cinemax, we get to see quite a bit of blood and gore along the way, but the scariest moment of the show for me was when Megan was possessed at the end of season 1.  The vacant stare in her eyes was so convincing and creepy.  She killed her own husband and her actions afterwards are so incredibly disturbing.  Megan begins peeling the skin off her own hand and then starts pushing on Mark’s eyeball with no reaction, which is something that still haunts my nightmares.  This is the scariest possession on the show for me and it also created a major cliffhanger as well.

1

Amber steals the show.

The best part of the show for me is Kyle’s daughter, Amber, played by Madeleine McGraw.  It’s safe to say that Amber has been through quite a lot.  Her own mother tried to kill her and she watched her father be accused of pretty much everything.  She also witnessed her Aunt Megan’s possession, which is enough to send her straight into years and years of therapy.  But Amber is not afraid and turns out to be an outcast herself, revealed in season 2.  Amber has the same ability as her father, but she is a lot less timid with it.  While Kyle tends to warn the demons, Amber just goes right up to them and burns them, proving that she is courageous and strong.  When they are told that her father is dead in the hospital, Amber keeps looking for him, refusing to listen to these lies.  She is the one who finds Kyle and tells him that “fireflies can see other fireflies.”  Amber has a lot to learn about her own abilities, but it seems like she may end up more powerful than her father.  Kyle knows that he has a huge responsibility and burden already, but he needs to ensure Amber’s safety at all cost.  Either way, Amber is a character you can absolutely root for, constantly reminding us just how capable and strong she is.  Ready to watch?

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

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

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!

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

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

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

The Search for Alice is available here!

The Search for Alice Cover

Ranking the top 5 moments from “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” season 13 episode 2: “The Gang Escapes”

Happy Friday TV fans!  Have you ever wanted to play the escape room game?  It’s a trend that is happening all over and of course the gang from Patty’s Pub has to get in on the action.  After watching the FXX network’s It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia season 13 episode 2 last night, I realized that while teamwork may be the most important element needed to win the game, the gang always has something else up their sleeves so that they wind up the winners.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet.  In Wednesday night’s episode, “The Gang Escapes,” the gang puts their best effort forward to excel at the escape the room game, but realize that a lot is at stake especially when “power plays” are introduced along with some much needed “riffing.”  My top 5 moments from It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia season 13 episode 2 are:

5

“Don’t judge me nerd.”

Dee is very excited to participate in the escape the room game and even begins looking for clues before she is technically allowed to.  We quickly find out that Dee has already played this particular escape game and was looking forward to showing off her detective skills to the group.  Only unfortunately for Dee, the gang decides to lock her in Dennis’s room, which is completely soundproof.  More on that later.  Dee tries to team up with the woman running the escape room game, but is upset when she doesn’t jump at the chance to get back at Dee’s friends, reminding Dee that the game is supposed to be about communication and teamwork and that this makes her uncomfortable.  Dee hilariously replies, “let’s see how comfortable you get when they get frustrated and start smashing all your shit,” proving that she knows her friends better than anyone else.  As if right on cue, the smashing begins.

4

“That’s power play.”

The gang begins to disagree on who the leader should be so they decide to break up into teams:  Mac and Dennis and Charlie and Frank.  Dennis feels the rush of power and is excited that they have a clue in their grasp.  However, he begins to get distracted by Frank’s obnoxious chewing of gum, recognizing it as a power play and classic angry Dennis makes an appearance.  Dennis begins freaking out and yells, “Can I riff?  I’m just riffing now.  Will you go get my gum?”  Mac does his best to obtain the gum from Charlie, but Frank also explains that this could be considered “power play,” confirming Dennis’s theory on becoming the “head cow.”  I don’t understand it any better than you do, but it is absolutely hilarious that both Dennis and Frank recognize the potential power play going on here.

3

“You didn’t say the safe word.”

While Dee is locked up in Dennis’s room, she accidentally triggers his laptop, which dims the lights and makes the bed even vibrate.  A message comes up on the laptop with Dennis surrounded by hearts and greets her by saying, “welcome sexual conquest.”  Dee begins freaking out, not wanting any part of her brother’s creepy sexual playground, but the message continues to go on while Stacey Q’s, “Two of Hearts” song begins to play, which you can listen to here!  She desperately tries to turn everything off, but is scolded when she doesn’t use the safe word.  I’m still wondering what that is.  Poor Dee!

2

“To us as men!”

Mac and Dennis finally come to an agreement with Charlie and Frank, as they all sit down for a summit to discuss the terms of their negotiation.  Charlie hilariously works in a new accent and says that they can commence with the turning of the key as long as he can remain “the speaker of the tribe.”  They commend themselves on a job well done as men and turn over the lock and key clues so they can win the game.  Only they quickly realize that this was only the first clue in the escape game and there are like 20 or 30 more things to complete.  Whoops.

1

“You really were the quarterback.”

In the beginning of the episode, Dee really wanted to show the gang that she was capable of being a good leader and said that she wanted to be the quarterback of the team.  While the gang initially reminded her that this is only a title reserved for men, Dee ends up changing their minds.  Dee escapes Dennis’s sex dungeon by climbing out the window to his surprise, as he mentions that no one else has been able to do so.  Dee accidentally falls off the ledge and says she is going to sue the makers of the game.  The woman who ran the game explains that nothing like this has ever happened before.  Luckily Dee is all right, but she is at the hospital with the rest of the gang by her side.  The woman reluctantly takes their photo even though they didn’t win the game, but they quickly convince her that they did in fact win in their own way.  The gang tells Dee, “You really were the quarterback,” allowing her to rejoice in a temporary moment of victory.  The gang certainly proved to be up for any challenge, but I’m still not sure they understand the concept of teamwork.  Either way, a win is a win and I am definitely on team Sunny!  Stay tuned!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts on It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia 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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If you enjoyed this blog, I would love it if you would click the follow button on your way out to subscribe.  Thanks for your support!

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

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

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

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

The Search for Alice is available here!

The Search for Alice Cover

Ranking the top 5 moments from “American Horror Story: Apocalypse” season 8 episode 1 Season Premiere: “Everything We Know Is Gone”

Happy Thursday TV fans!  The wait is over and the end is here or is it now the beginning?  After watching the FX network’s American Horror Story:  Apocalypse season 8 episode 1 last night, we witnessed the end of the world, as an inbound missile alert threatened the entire planet.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet.  In last night’s episode, “The End,” many characters desperately tried to escape the destruction of the world, relying on their money and powerful connections to do so.  Meanwhile, an organization called “The Cooperative” arranged for other characters to be taken because they were identified as prime candidates to survive based on their DNA.  While the world enters into nuclear winter in the future, we watch a group of characters hold on to their own survival in Outpost 3 by following “the rules.”  My top 5 moments from American Horror Story:  Apocalypse season 8 episode 1 are:

5

“What’s a purple?”

Forty minutes before the bomb goes off, we meet Timothy, played by Kyle Allen.  Timothy is with his family when soldiers from The Cooperative burst in the door and explain that they are taking Timothy with him and that he will be safe.  Timothy tries to convince them to take his family as well, but they have strict orders to only take him with them.  Timothy was selected based on his DNA, which they detected when he completed some type of ancestry DNA kit.  Before he has a chance to say a proper goodbye, Timothy is taken and ends up in a cell underground next to a girl named Emily, played by Ash Santos, who was most likely taken for the same reason, although she explains she was in prison.  After the blast, the two are taken to Outpost 3 in Hazmat suits and witness two young adults being killed outside.  Timothy and Emily are horrified by what they see, but continue to the fallout shelter, Outpost 3, with little resistance.  While here, they are quickly introduced to Wilhemina Venable, played by Sarah Paulson.  Ms. Venable explains that she is in charge there and that they were both chosen to survive and will be known as “purples.”  Emily asks what this means and they learn that a purple is the elite and the worthy while the “grays” are there to serve them.  Everyone has a purpose and they are told that they must follow the rules no matter what, which include extremes like “no unauthorized copulation of any kind.”  When asked about her own purpose, Ms. Venable explains that they should think of her as the “strong arm of The Cooperative” and Emily courageously points out that she is not a purple then.  While it seems like everything has a certain routine and structure to it, Timothy quickly gets a warning sign when he sees the numbers “666” appear on the shower door and a whisper calling out, “beware.”  While we don’t know who is sending the message or what this means just yet, it’s clear that they are not the only beings to survive in the world.

4

“It’s like Satan’s Spotify playlist.”

During the episode, Timothy and Emily join the other guests in Outpost 3 and discover that some of the rich and famous have come along for the ride because of their connections and donations along the way.  This includes Coco St. Pierre Vanderbilt, played by Leslie Grossman, who hilariously told her significant other that they can see other people when she realized that they needed to leave on the plane without him to avoid the blast.  We also meet Mr. Gallant, played by Evan Peters, who has brought along his grandmother, played by Joan Collins.  There are a few other characters in the mix as well, but it’s clear that no one is used to following the rules and living in simplicity.  The mundane routine begins to set in, as they hear the same song play over and over, slowly driving them mad.  Meals consist of eating small cubes filled with vitamins that leave much to be desired.  Ms. Venable and her associate, Miriam, played by Kathy Bates, remind everyone that “we are the last vestiges of civilized life on the planet.”  Everyone is told that they must follow the rules in order to survive and they must keep out contamination at all cost.  We also learn that they have about enough food and supplies to last approximately 18 months.  Miriam announces that someone has brought in contamination from outside even though everyone swears that they have not done so.  Stu and Mr. Gallant are both identified as being contaminated and they are taken away brutally to be cleansed.  Luckily Gallant passes the contamination test on the second round, but Stu is not so lucky and begs not to be put through decontamination again.  Miriam shoots him in the head; however, ending the immediate threat.  It’s clear that Ms. Venable and Miriam mean business and they are not about to break the rules for anything or anyone.

3

“It’s only us.”

Later in the episode, we learn that Ms. Venable and Miriam are making up things as they go.  Miriam worries about what will happen when The Cooperative finds out, but Ms. Venable reminds her that “it’s only us.”  The two enjoy inflicting punishment and watching the faces of their victims, granting them some kind of temporary pleasure and power.  Ms. Venable says that “it gives me a tingle,” revealing that there is something sick and twisted going on with these two, but what will happen when The Cooperative finds out that they are dishing out their own kind of punishment and even pretending that some are contaminated to further along their cruel game?

2

“The stew is Stu!”

After the guests are clearly traumatized after Stu was shot, they are rewarded with a hot meal.  Everyone seems initially grateful and begins digging in, until they start finding bones that don’t really seem like they belong to a chicken.  “The stew is Stu!”  Everyone begins spitting out the food except for Mrs. Gallant who explains “I don’t care what it is.  It’s absolutely divine.”  While Ms. Venable tells them that they are not eating human flesh, it’s hard to believe anything that she says at this point.  Just when it seems like all hope is lost, the song they have been hearing over and over changes to a new one.  It begins playing Maureen McGovern’s song, “The Morning After,” which you can listen to here!  Everyone listens to the words and is convinced that it is a sign that they will be rescued.  Only we quickly flash to “18 months later” and no rescue has come at all.  The world has gotten colder and deadlier and it seems like everyone is clinging to an empty existence except for Timothy and Emily who have now fallen in love.  They ration one kiss a day just to be able to have something to look forward to, recognizing that they cannot do anything further for fear of breaking the rules.  While this is something sweet in the midst of all of this despair, I worry about Ms. Venable discovering their secret.

1

“Those who make it, live.  Those who don’t, end up like my horses.”

At the end of the episode, there is a breach at Outpost 3 and a horse and buggy arrives with a strange visitor.  Meet Michael Langdon, played by Cody Fern, who works for The Cooperative.  He explains that there is another Outpost that has supplies that could last up to a decade, but that he will determine who is worthy of survival there.  While it’s clear that he could make the determination to take everyone, he only has interest in those who are deserving.  While we don’t know what this entails exactly, Michael is no fool, as he recognizes that Miriam is already killing his horses outside.  He is not one to be messed with and Ms. Venable may be in some serious trouble for her abuse of power.  Which characters will be saved?  What else is left out in the world?  Stay tuned to find out!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own theories and thoughts on American Horror Story:  Apocalypse 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

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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!

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

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

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

The Search for Alice is available here!

The Search for Alice Cover

 

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: 

5

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.

4

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.

3

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.

2

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.

1

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.

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!

The Search for Alice Cover