Tag: relationship

Spoiler-Free Review of “Together” in Theaters: Delightfully Disturbing!

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

“This move will be good for both of us…”

Together released in theaters on July 31st 2025. The horror film stars Alison Brie, Dave Franco, and Damon Herriman. It runs for approximately an hour and forty-two minutes.

Real life couple, Dave Franco and Alison Brie, star as Tim and Mille, who move out to the countryside, leaving their friends and loved ones behind while dealing with new strains on their relationship. After going on a hike, they encounter a mysterious force that threatens to bind them together (literally) forever.

Here is the trailer:


Together is bizarre, extreme, and filled with cohesive charm, but does it do enough to be worthy of your next watch? Let’s find out…

The Pros:

Images courtesy of Neon

Alison Brie & Dave Franco are electric together!

This really should come as no surprise since they are married in real life, but I think it was genius to cast them in a film like this, which relied so heavily on chemistry and connection. I’m not normally into body horror films, but these two sold me on it.

They were relatable and genuinely funny despite the extreme concept, which gave this film a surprising balance of dark rom-com charm and gross out gore. I fell in love with these two on screen and thought they were both fantastic.

They were so committed to this, which worked in the film’s favor. Wow!

Images courtesy of Neon

Stomach-turning moments!

In a lot of ways, I would say this film was The Substance-lite, which I actually kind of preferred. I don’t like feeling like I’m about to vomit while watching a movie. Don’t get me wrong…there were lots of insane moments if you’re a fan of body horror, but I also appreciated the lore behind it all, which gave it some layered mystery.

The Cons:

Images courtesy of Neon

The second half is stronger than the first…

I actually really enjoyed this movie and don’t have many cons at all. If I have to nitpick, I would say that this film could have been just a touch shorter. The beginning had some setup that could have been cut out, but I wouldn’t say it got in the way of the pacing that much.

So am I in or out?

Images courtesy of Neon

I’m in!!!

Dave Franco and Alison Brie are a twisted, freaky match made in horror heaven and I’m here for it!

I went into this one not expecting much and it surprised me in all the right ways.

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

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

This competition is killer…

When former friends, Shay and Adriana team up to participate in a Halloween scavenger hunt with a cash prize, they temporarily put their differences aside to outsmart their opponents. However, they soon start to realize that a dangerous threat is playing their own version of the game, stalking them during each hunt.

Winning is now a necessity as their lives are at stake. As old wounds and memories re-surface, Shay and Adriana attempt to unmask the threat before the night is over, but soon learn that Scream Hunt is not done with them just yet…

My young adult horror thriller is out now! I hope you enjoy!

Scream Hunt is available here!
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My Ship of the week ending 10/19/19 on TV goes to…

Betty Cooper and Jughead Jones on The CW’s Riverdale season 4.  There’s just something about Bughead that makes your heart skip a beat. 

While both Bughead and Varchie had some passionate and fiery moments in season 4 episode 2, Bughead takes the crown for me because they have a bond that transcends all of that, understanding what it truly means to give up everything to do what is best for your partner.  Please note some spoilers are ahead if you are not up-to-date on the series.

In a lot of ways, Betty and Jughead are ahead of their time.  There is a maturity and friendship to their relationship and they really make you think past the temporary moments of passion.  Sure, we love seeing these swoon-worthy parts, but I really enjoy witnessing Betty and Jughead’s selfless moments together even more. 

They won’t have an easy year ahead of them, but Betty understands Jughead’s talent and potential and she reminds him that they can get through anything together, which was really inspiring and heartwarming to hear.

Betty and Jughead aren’t perfect by any means.  In fact, I think that both of them have kept their fair share of secrets, but season 4 is really allowing them to flourish.  In a lot of ways, they have moved past their prior mistakes and now they are truly grateful for one another, understanding what really matters in the end…being together.

There doesn’t need to be some epic moment between them because of all of their small moments together make them stand out that much more.  They resemble a real and stable relationship and while I am worried about their future fate now that they will be separated, I have faith in these two no matter what.

Betty and Jughead are both strong characters individually and when they are together, they compliment each other so well and I love seeing them team up for mysteries.

My favorite moment of the episode was during English class when Betty pulled Jughead out in the hallway to tell him to go to Stonewall, reminding him that they are always together.  Betty wants what is best for Jughead and I know that he would do the same for her.

What’s next for Bughead?  We’ll have to wait and see, but I am anxious to find out more about Jughead’s disappearance in the future.  Betty is my go to girl to solve the case, so I know that she will not stop until she finds him, but I am starting to wonder more about what led them to this separate path.

Long distance relationships are never easy, but I know that Betty and Jughead will do everything in their power to stay together.  The King and Queen of the Serpents deserve every bit of happiness, but I have a feeling that someone might try and get in their way.  These two are stronger together, but I am not underestimating either of them and I can’t wait to see what happens next!

I’m always rooting for these two and I would love to see some more screen time for both of them, especially since we know that they will really need to work at putting in some quality time together.

What are YOUR thoughts on Bughead?  A dynamic duo or on the outs?

Stay tuned for a recognized Ship on TV each week!

**SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT!** 

In honor of the release of Book 3, ALL 3 books of the Dreaming of Wonderland Series are FREE for a limited time! (10/16-10/20) You can read now or recommend to someone who might enjoy at:

The Dreaming of Wonderland Book Series is available here!

Dreaming of Wonderland Series Final Chapter Blog

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

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Have a Ship that you think is absolutely swoon-worthy? Feel free to contact me with your nomination for the week by Friday at midnight! 

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Spoiler-Free Review of “Nancy Drew” Series Premiere on the CW: “Maybe more horror and less mystery?”

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

“Mysteries were everywhere and I loved solving them.”

Your favorite amateur sleuth is getting her own show, but it seems like this Nancy Drew is darker and more mature, but can she measure up to the competition?  The series premiere of Nancy Drew aired on the CW on October 9th 2019.  The show will run weekly episodes and it comes on directly after Riverdale.  Know your audience, right?

The show stars Kennedy McMann, Tunji Kasim, Leah Lewis, and Scott Wolf.  Nancy Drew makes reference to how she started solving mysteries at a young age, paying tribute to the book series character we all know and love.  However, after tragically losing her mother, Nancy Drew is all grown up and it seems like she wants to stay away from mysteries and ghosts, but it doesn’t look like they are ready to let her go just yet.

Nancy Drew has a lot of competition, especially since other shows like Riverdale, Veronica Mars, and Stranger Things all have a captivating female lead who likes to solve mysteries, but where does that leave the girl who started it all?  Let’s find out…

The Pros:

Nancy Drew CW Premiere 1
Images courtesy of The CW

True respect for the original character.

Nancy Drew was the first book series I fell in love with and I lost myself in the mysteries again and again.  I have seen several movie interpretations and I appreciate that this show is trying to do something different, but I also respected the clever Easter eggs thrown into the mix, including our girl Nancy investigating with the infamous flashlight.

Some potential for the new Scoobies.

I am still sorting out who is who and I’m not sure how I feel about Nancy’s friends just yet, but I like that they all want to help out.  I always loved “The Scoobies” on Buffy the Vampire Slayer, reminding us that you don’t have to be the obvious hero to make a difference and save the day, so I think this could be the start of something really fun and nostalgic.

The supernatural horror elements are genuinely scary!

If you know anything about Nancy Drew, you know that even though you get your fair share of ghostly mysteries, there is always some kind of rational explanation to bring us back to the real world.  Even this Nancy reminds us in the beginning of the show that she doesn’t believe in ghosts and yet there is this very real ghost story going on, which has captured my full attention.

I expected this show to be more focused on teenage drama with mystery sprinkled in, but I was genuinely surprised by the supernatural horror aspect and I think this might be something that can help Nancy Drew create a voice of its own separate from Riverdale.  Chilling Adventures of Sabrina comes to mind, but so far they are doing much better with that deliciously dark component, but that doesn’t mean that Nancy Drew can’t step up to the plate too.  More horror please!

The Cons:

Nancy Drew CW Premiere 2
Images courtesy of The CW

I can’t get a real read on Nancy yet.

Part of the reason why I like characters like Betty Cooper, Veronica Mars, and Nancy Wheeler is that they channel Nancy Drew while having this magnetic spark that really draws you in to their character.  I’m missing something with Nancy Drew so far and while I get that she is dealing with her grief and seems closed off, I haven’t connected with her at all yet and that could be a problem.  I’m only one episode in so I hope to get some more layers soon, but I want to ignite a fire within Nancy as soon as possible.

Forcing a ship.

Part of the way I fall in love with a ship, is that I see the progression of their relationship that leads to some epic moment between them that cannot be ignored.  We dive into this relationship between Nancy and Nick (Ned Nickerson) and I just don’t feel the chemistry yet.  I want to see some real moments between them leading up to something, rather than these bits and pieces that are being forced upon me.

The actual mystery is just kind of blah…

A dead body shows up and Nancy Drew is on the case, but there is nothing really unique or special about the murder and Nancy’s process to discover the clues seems very by the numbers and uninspiring.  That being said, the mystery surrounding this ghost story and her parents might be the real winner, but I still want Nancy to surprise me and invest me in her other mysteries.  Maybe she should call Betty Cooper up for some advice on this…

So am I in or out? 

Nancy Drew CW Premiere 3
Images courtesy of The CW

As of right now, it’s about 50/50 for me.  The show isn’t necessarily bad, but there’s nothing that magnetic or special about it just yet.  I feel like right now it is in the shadow of its competition and it needs to do something spectacular to pave its own way.  Maybe that’s the horror element I mentioned earlier, which has a lot of chilling potential. 

I plan on giving the show another two episodes to really get a feel for it, but I’m hoping for some kind of a spark here.  Out of every new Fall show premiering, this is the show I was really looking forward to and perhaps I set my expectations too high, but I’m keeping an open mind for now.

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

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

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

The Dreaming of Wonderland Book Series is available here!

Dreaming of Wonderland Series Final Chapter Blog

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

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

 

 

 

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Shameless” season 9 episode 9: “I’m The Hobo Loco Man!”

Happy Sunday TV fans!  After watching Showtime’s Shameless season 9 episode 9, I realized that having a vision board will not solve everything, but it’s not a bad place to start and you might even end up surprising yourself with what you discover.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In tonight’s episode, “BOOOOOOOOOOOONE!,” Debbie takes on some more responsibility and decides that everyone is going to pay up or be left out in the cold.  Meanwhile, Irish Ford pays Fiona a visit, Liam bonds with Santiago, and Lip meets Tami’s ex-boyfriend.  My top 5 moments from Shameless season 9 episode 9 are:

5

“We’ll do 3.”

In this episode, we learn that Ingrid is pregnant, but there are already six embryos present.  The doctor explains that she will need to terminate some of them so that Ingrid has a safe and healthy pregnancy, but Ingrid is not ready to let go.  After first agreeing to three babies, she decides that she will be keeping all six.  Frank does the math and realizes he will need to start saving up over a million dollars, but our guy Frank always has a scheme in the works.

4

“I didn’t make the name up.”

While Kev and V try to track down Santiago’s uncle, they also make time to prepare some drinks for the “Hobo Loco Man Competition.”  The drink by itself is beyond disgusting and Kev tries to mix it with some cocktails so that he can win the competition.  Some of Kev’s drink ideas include:  “Hobo Rita,” “Napalm Gut Rinse,” and “Death,” which is a full shot of Hobo Loco with 4 ounces of Baileys.  While I love the creativity here behind the Hobo Loco cocktail names, I’m not sure that anything can make this drink appetizing.  However, Frank is inspired when he learns that he could potentially become the Hobo Loco Man spokesperson and earn $50,000.  After all, Frank is pretty much the only one who can actually drink this, so I guess it’s worth a shot.

3

“I don’t want to mess your future up.”

After Kelly’s father threatens Carl with a gun, Carl begins to have second thoughts about their relationship, but not for the reasons you may suspect.  Carl genuinely cares about Kelly and tells her, “I don’t want to mess your future up,” which is selfless and really sweet.  When working on the vision board, Kelly realizes that she has been living her life for her father and that it’s about time she stands up for herself and what she wants.  She tells her father that she does want to go to his dream school, but that she will do it on her terms, which include dating Carl and having sex with him in her bedroom.  It looks like Carl may have found the one, but I’m still wondering if Kassidi may rise up from the grave anytime soon.

2

“He’s the guy kissing your chick.”

When I saw the name of the episode, I was slightly startled, but then I understood it when Tami’s ex-boyfriend, Boone, walked in the door.  Lip initially feels out of place and unsure of what to do next when he finds out that Boone made a promise to marry Tami.  After working out some of their issues, Lip and Tami realize they are ready to move forward with their relationship together and that it’s OK to show their feelings every once and a while.  I have to say that I am liking this relationship so far, but let’s hope that Tami can treat Lip with love and respect because he deserves it.

1

“I don’t need anything from you!”

Poor Fiona is continuing to spiral out of control in this episode and it doesn’t help when Irish Ford walks in the door to ask for his tools back.  Fiona tries to tell him that she doesn’t have his tools and that she hasn’t thought about him in weeks and Debbie and the Gallaghers have Fiona’s back when Debbie ominously says, “We thought about you though,” while holding a knife.  Later on, Fiona’s anger continues to get the best of her and it even impacts her work.  She later tries out boxing to see if she can channel her aggression, but this seems to only prove that Fiona is very capable of defending herself.  After all, she is from the South Side.  After getting a little bit of satisfaction from throwing Ford’s tools through his window, Fiona ends up on her front porch with Liam.  Liam promises her that he will never disrespect women, even though he is currently keeping his options open, which is beyond heartwarming.  Debbie decides to let Fiona and Liam back in even though they still owe her money, but hopefully Fiona will begin to “turn a corner” and pick up the pieces.  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!

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

My Whizbuzz Book Page

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

[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 6: “You Can Only Count on Family Dude”

Happy Sunday TV fans!  After watching Showtime’s Shameless season 9 episode 6, Carl reminded Ian that “you can only count on family.”  Even if a Gallagher messes up, everyone is still there for him or her, supporting them until the end, because that’s what you do for family.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In tonight’s episode, “Face It, You’re Gorgeous,” Ford wants Fiona to move in with him, but she has second thoughts when things don’t go exactly as planned with her new investment.  Meanwhile, Ian prepares himself for prison; Lip tries out being a sober companion, and Frank tracks down his new romantic interest with the help of Liam.  My top 5 moments from Shameless season 9 episode 6 are:

5

“I’m good at crazy.”

During the episode, Frank is determined to track down Dr. Ingrid Jones, played by Katey Sagal.  Frank takes Liam along with him and waits for her to be released from her 72 hour stay at the psychiatric facility, which Frank remembers all too well.  Frank reminisces about Monica and perhaps over shares a bit too much with his son, but Frank explains that it is never boring when you are with someone a little bit crazy.  Ingrid doesn’t initially admit to remembering Frank, but he later appears at her doorstep and tells her that she is fantastic and that he loves the part of her that is not really normal.  It looks like Frank might have finally found a new romantic interest worthy of his affection.  Katey Sagal is absolutely wonderful so I’m hoping that this is a recurring role for her, but we will have to wait and see.  Perhaps she can bring out the best in Frank or at least take them on a new adventure together.

4

“I can take that or you can keep it as a parting gift.”

Kev and V are surprised to get a knock on their door from Sister Francis and quickly learn that their daughter, Amy, brought in a vibrating dildo for show and tell when asked to bring something in that represents the love of her parents.  Sister Francis explains that most of the other children brought in pictures of hearts, but Amy certainly took the cake with her representation of Kev and V’s love.  Kev and V are required to meet with the priest who over shares in excessive detail about his own sexual past and he hangs on to the dildo for safe keeping…sure we’ll go with safe keeping.  Kev and V realize that this is serious and they have to be careful around the girls.  Kev decides that they should have a ceremony of sorts before discarding the rest of their sex toys.  They hilariously throw each item off the bridge into the water before sharing a few words about them.  Perhaps Kev gets a little bit too sentimental, but this moment is absolutely laugh out loud funny.

3

“Say the line!”

In this episode, Lip tries out being a sober companion for a celebrity named Jen Wagner, played by the fabulous Courteney Cox.  Jen tries to escape Lip, but she cannot get rid of him so easily.  When she asks why her sobriety is so important to him, Lip explains, “If I help you stay sober, it helps me stay sober.”  After a few more failed attempts to escape and drink, Jen joins Lip for a family dinner consisting of White Castle and has an absolute blast with the Gallagher family.  They request for her to say her famous line from her makeup commercials, “Face It, You’re Gorgeous,” and she actually offers them some really great advice.  Jen calms Ian’s nerves about prison and she even kisses Debbie and tells her that she needs someone in her life that truly gets her, reminding everyone that she did play a lesbian role once in one of her movies.  Jen realizes that she hasn’t even thought about drinking while hanging out with Lip and his family, revealing just how important a good support system is.  Perhaps Lip has a new calling and a new celebrity friend as well.  I’m proud of you Lip!

2

“I thought we were ready to take this relationship to the next level.”

In the beginning of the episode, Ford and Fiona decide to move in together, but Fiona says that she didn’t realize it would be so expensive.  Ford tells her that “to get ahead in life, you have to push past your comfort zone,” which is actually really good advice.  Fiona has second thoughts about moving in; however, when she realizes that she cannot get out of her new investment deal and learns that the project is being pushed back by 12 months and now requires $25,000 more out of her pocket.  After being denied another mortgage loan, Fiona is feeling defeated and begins drinking away her sorrows.  After kissing her co-worker, Fiona realizes that she is making a big mistake and that she needs to go home and apologize to Ford.  Ford is not there and she tracks his phone using his iPad and knocks on the door, not knowing what to expect.  A woman named Patty opens the door and reveals that she is Ford’s wife and he has a child as well.  Ford tries to explain to Fiona that he is separated, but Fiona is too hurt and upset to hear anything he has to say.  She crashes her car in his neighborhood and just gets out and starts walking away, refusing to let Ford help her.  Fiona is clearly hurt, but the physical pain is not enough to prevent her from getting away from Ford as quickly as possible.  This is not the first time we have seen Fiona be lied to and my heart goes out to her.  Fiona deserves the very best and while Ford may have a reasonable explanation for everything, it still doesn’t change the fact that he has been lying to her all this time.  Will Fiona be OK?  Will her family be able to intervene and help her before it’s too late?  Let’s hope so.

1

“You can only count on family dude.”

At the end of the episode, Ian is surprised that Fiona is not there to take him to prison, but Kev agrees to drive him and the rest of the Gallaghers tag along for moral support.  Ian explains that he thought some of his friends and supporters might be there, but Carl reminds him that you can only ever really truly count on family.  Everyone embraces Ian and he walks into prison with his head held high.  When he gets to his cell, I immediately started wondering about who his cell mate would be and in walks Mickey!  At this point, I was jumping up and down cheering and I’m sure you were too.  It’s about time these two were reunited.  Sure, they may be in prison, but something tells me that Ian and Mickey will make the best of their situation.  These two absolutely belong together and I am excited to have Noel Fisher back on the show.  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!

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

My Whizbuzz Book Page

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

[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 4: “Knock Off That Golden Daffodil Sh*t!”

Happy Monday TV fans!  After watching Showtime’s Shameless season 9 episode 4, I learned some valuable lessons from the Gallagher family such as:  what a duel is, that every vote can be bought, and that loving waffles doesn’t necessarily mean you’re ready to move in with someone.  Perhaps some of the Gallagher gang need to pump the breaks a little bit, but we are definitely along for the ride.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In last night’s episode, “Do Right, Vote White!” Debbie begins to fall for her new girlfriend, Alex, and is excited that they enjoy the same breakfast meal.  Meanwhile, Liam gets a FastPass to the sixth grade, Kev discovers his new talent as a consultant, and Fiona gets involved in politics.  My top 5 moments from Shameless season 9 episode 4 are:

5

“I love waffles!”

I also love waffles Debbie, but I’m not sure that means I’m ready to move in with you just yet.  During this episode, Debbie and Alex begin to take their relationship to the next level.  They quickly discover that they both like a lot of the same things, but jump into moving in together rather quickly.  When talking about their past relationships, Debbie starts talking about some of the men she has been with a little too much and Alex has second thoughts.  Alex asks Debbie to leave, fearing that she is going to fall in love with a straight girl again and make the same mistake.  Debbie is confused, but has literally been gay for maybe two days or hours?  When Debbie comes home, she blurts out that she is upset about the breakup and Lip unintentionally offends her by asking who Alex is.  It looks like Debbie’s brief encounter with her lesbian side may be over, but hopefully she will realize that baby Franny is the most important gal in her life right now.

4

“I’m not a traitor to my class.”

Fiona gets surprisingly over involved in politics and throws her support toward Ruiz initially.  Irish Ford is surprised by her choice and Fiona reveals that it is mostly because of rent control.   Fiona becomes passionate about who is she is backing and even takes down Mo White posters hanging in Patsy’s Pies while customers are sitting there.  She offers free pie to anyone who will wear a Ruiz button, proving her theory that “every vote can be bought.”  While Fiona may have a point, she soon realizes that she needs to change her tune and vote, but not before she punches one of Frank’s “white men” at a riot to get her point across.  Glad to see that you haven’t turned your back on the South Side, Fiona!

3

“Are you the vagina safe guy?”

Kev turns his small “vagina safe zone” drawing into a large sign and is ready to get the Alibi off the “rapiest bar” list.  Kev and V have put in a lot of effort on this and Kev even invites Beth from the “South Side Beat” back to “reinspect” the bar.  Kev is thrilled when they are off the list and are now known as a “female friendly dive bar.”  Progress right?  Either way, female customers are walking through the doors and a new business opportunity comes Kev’s way when another bar owner on the list approaches him and asks for his help and expertise.  Kev embraces his new talent as a kind of “vagina safe zone” consultant and even wears a suit to show that he means business.  Go Kev!

2

“What the f*ck is a duel?”

Carl is slightly worried that he may be losing his “homicidal mojo” and seeks out some help to get it back.  He is hilariously challenged to a duel after he takes someone’s spot at West Point, but he is having second thoughts on taking out the competition.  Carl and his competition end up at a standstill after taking their 20 paces, not really feeling right about shooting the other one.  Carl’s competition hilariously shoots himself in the leg and reveals that his father wants him to go to West Point and that he would rather go to school to be a poet.  After showing off some of his material and reciting something about the “golden daffodils,” Carl has had enough and shoots him again as requested so that he is too injured to go to West Point.  Carl is happy to have his mojo back and his competition hilariously calls out, “Thanks man!” but maybe he should get to a hospital…like right away.

1

“I want her back.”

During the episode, Lip meets Xan’s mother, who has come back to retrieve her daughter.  Lip is hesitant to let Xan go back to her mother because she is a junky and unreliable.  Lip doesn’t want Xan to get hurt and decides to take things further when he follows Xan’s mother and discovers that she is also “hooking” for some fast cash.  Lip later approaches Xan’s mother and offers her ten thousand dollars if she will relinquish her rights as Xan’s mother and designate Lip as Xan’s legal guardian.  Before they can go any further, Xan has followed Lip and is so excited to see her mother.  She runs into her mother’s arms and Lip realizes that he cannot possibly separate Xan from her mother, even though she has made so many mistakes.  In a heartbreaking moment, Lip leaves the envelope of money and runs away, trying so hard to do the right thing for Xan.  While it’s clear that Lip cares so much for Xan, he understands the importance of family and wants Xan to grow up loved.  Will Lip be able to move on with his life without Xan?  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 “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 “The Affair” season 4 episode 7: “I Wish I Had Your Life”

Happy Monday TV fans!  After watching Showtime’s The Affair last night, I realized that sometimes you have to just let the fear in and embrace it.  You may want to maintain control over your emotions or keep your feelings locked away, but sometimes facing what scares us the most and saying it out loud can make a world of difference.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet.  In last night’s episode, “407,” Helen decides to go to Joshua Tree with Sierra to attend a moon circle.  Meanwhile, Noah continues to involve himself in Janelle’s family affairs and then receives an unexpected phone call from an old friend.  My top 5 moments from The Affair season 4 episode 7 are:

5

“Eventually you get old enough and start to figure shit out.”

Part one of the episode is from Helen’s perspective and she impulsively decides to go to Joshua Tree with her neighbor, Sierra, even though she initially dismissed the previous invitation.  Helen’s reaction to the idea of the moon circle is hilarious, but she does get the opportunity to step away from her life for one night.  After the women at the circle write down their fears, the Guru begins reading them out loud and Helen provides each of them with really great advice.  Helen has experienced a lot of what they are going through now and her wisdom is very much appreciated.  The Guru passes the baton to Helen for the night, as she touches each and every one of them with her advice.  Maybe Helen has another calling she has yet to tap into just yet.  Either way, it was great to see Helen finally let her guard down for just a moment to really make an impact with these women.

4

“I’m not doing it for him.”

In part two of the episode, we see everything from Noah’s perspective and he is surprised when Anton shows up at his home to ask for his advice on whether or not to join the Marines.  Noah stays neutral and suggests that he at least go and see Princeton for himself before making a rash decision.  Noah also explains the importance of involving Janelle in this decision.  Janelle’s ex-husband, Carl, is not happy to see Noah back at his home again and asks him, “don’t you have your own family?”  Noah believes in Anton and does not want to see his potential go to waste.  Later in the episode, Janelle shows up at Noah’s home late and thanks him for what he did.  Noah agrees to take Anton to Princeton so that Janelle can focus on the board meeting and she is happy to see him standing up for her son.  The moment we have been waiting for has finally arrived, as Noah and Janelle enjoy a passionate night together without interruption.  While I’m not sure where they will pick up now that Alison is missing, it seems like this might be the first stable relationship Noah has had in a very long time.

3

“Control is really hot.”

In part one, Helen and Sierra continue bonding in their tent.  Sierra clearly feels guilty about sleeping with Vik, but decides to act on her growing feelings for Helen.  She passionately kisses Helen and the two share an intimate moment together.  While I had seen hints and implications at this earlier in the season, it’s nice to see Helen finally enjoy a moment for herself, as she is always so busy being needed by everyone in her life.  Sierra makes her feel wanted and free, as she is able to take a moment to truly relax and give in to what she wants.  She deserves it!

2

“I don’t want you to die.”

After Helen goes into the deprivation tank, she begins to panic in the small space.  Sierra opens the tank and asks her if she is all right, but Helen just needs to get out of there, as she takes off quickly in the car.  When Helen returns home, she immediately rushes over to Vik and reveals her own fear out loud.  Helen finally had the epiphany she was searching for and doesn’t want to waste another second.  She tells Vik that she doesn’t want him to die and Vik promises her that he won’t.  This moment was truly something significant and special for Helen and Vik.  Ever since his diagnosis, Vik has been focused on the statistics and the reality of his situation, but in this moment with Helen, he finally allows his heart and emotions to take over.  Whether he believes that he will not die or not, Vik understands the importance of holding on to the belief that he could be OK, giving Helen the glimmer of hope she so desperately needed.  We know that Helen has been speaking about starting menopause, but perhaps a baby is not so far off now.

1

“So who’s coming to get us?”

After Noah and Anton miss their connecting flight to New York, Noah notices that he has several missed calls from Cole.  He is finally able to answer and is shocked to hear what Cole has to say.  All of the pieces have now come together, as we finally catch up to the present day timeline, understanding how Cole, Noah, and Anton all end up together in the same car.  When Cole picks them up, Noah tries to stay positive, but Cole is clearly beyond worried that something terrible has happened to Alison.  Will they be able to find out what happened to Alison 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 Affair 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 is now available!  If you enjoy fairy-tale retellings, paranormal romance, and mystery, then this might be the book for you or someone you know!  Thank you for taking the time to check it out and I appreciate any feedback as well.  I hope you enjoy!

The Search for Alice is available here!

The Search for Alice Cover

 

 

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Younger” season 5 episode 6: “I Didn’t Run Away”

Happy Wednesday TV fans!  After watching TV Land’s Younger season 5 episode 6 last night, I was reminded that trust is not an easy thing to earn back.  Even though we may give someone time or space, it’s difficult to promise that we will never break that trust again, leaving us swirling around in a whirlwind of uncertainty, wondering if we can ever make things right.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet.  In last night’s episode, “Sex, Liza, and Rock & Roll,” Liza is excited to meet rock star, Chrissie Hart, who proves to be beyond eccentric and extremely hilarious.  Meanwhile, Diana prepares for a sleepover at Enzo’s house and Kelsey has trouble deciding what or who she really wants.  My top 5 moments from Younger season 5 episode 6 are:

5

“It’s real and you deserve it.”

Maggie is beyond excited that her art is selected to be featured at the Whitney and she mingles at her party and meets some interested buyers, which proves that dreams really can come true.  Josh tells her, “you have officially arrived,” and I have to say that it is about time.  Maggie is so talented and her work is unique and expressive, just like her character, which makes this moment truly amazing for her.  I have to also admit that I loved the first real meeting between her and Diana, as we know that Maggie refuses to let anyone step on her.  Remember the Montana incident?  Either way, it’s great to see Maggie finally getting the attention that she deserves.

4

“I hope you’re not here to cock block me.”

Rockstar, Chrissie Hart, is writing a book for Empirical Press and requests that Charles come to pick it up personally at her home in Shelter Island.  Only Charles gets way more than he bargained for when Chrissie gives him the grand tour, which leads up to a box that supposedly contains a “ten thousand dollar dildo.”  Charles is hilarious when he shuts the box before he is scarred for life and reminds Chrissie again to provide him with the book.  When Liza shows up to help out, Charles is relieved to see her, but Chrissie reminds her that she better not cock block her because she plans on “banging his brains out.”  Charles begs Liza not to leave him alone with her, which adds to the comedy, but is Charles finally ready to let Liza back into his life and possibly his heart?

3

“I am a grape.  A very very juicy grape.”

In the beginning of the episode, we learn that Diana is preparing for a sleepover night at Enzo’s place in Staten Island and she is beyond nervous.  When Liza notices everything she has packed, she asks her, “Are you staying over or redecorating?”  Diana hilariously explains that, “I need to prepare for polyester,” but is in for a nice surprise when she walks into Enzo’s home and discovers that it is neat, clean, and well decorated.  In the morning, she is introduced to Enzo’s mother and learns that he still lives with her.  Enzo’s mother begins complaining in Italian that Diana is too old and that he brought her a raisin instead of a grape, but Diana shocks them both when she replies in Italian, “I am a grape.  A very very juicy grape,” proving that there is no one in the world who can take down Diana.  Enzo’s mother is beyond pleased that she speaks Italian and Diana reminds her that her age is none of her business.  Once again, it looks like the relationship between Diana and Enzo is proving to be a delightful surprise and Diana deserves every second of happiness.

2

“So someone like you?”

Kelsey continues to struggle with her feelings for both Jake and Zane and it only gets worse in this episode.  Zane is frustrated by Jake’s chapters and demands that Kelsey get him on the phone so that they can discuss it.  While Jake doesn’t like Zane’s “tone,” Zane harshly reminds him that he doesn’t like his chapter, which makes this rivalry a dangerous one, since it mixes both business and pleasure.  After Kelsey thinks she has it all figured out with Jake, Zane throws her a curve ball and tells her what she wants.  He says that she wants someone who can challenge her, but also make her happy.  Kelsey stops thinking with her head and begins kissing Zane passionately.  When she returns home the next morning, she tells Lauren and Josh what happened and Lauren tells her to have them both when she asks who she should choose.  While we still don’t know what Kelsey will ultimately decide, it’s only a matter of time before Jake and Zane find out about each other, but will this damage the book deal?  Will Kelsey make the right decision?  While Jake is a nice enough guy, as Zane pointed out, “Nice is code for dull,” and there is nothing dull about our girl Kelsey.

1

“I didn’t run away.”

After Liza and Charles are able to escape the antics of Chrissie Hart when she passes out, Liza corners Charles and asks him, “When are you going to trust me again?”  The silence is too much for her to handle and she desperately wants to talk things through with him.  However, Charles is still not able to open up to Liza about how he is feeling and says goodnight to her.  Even though there is only a door between them, you can feel the tension brewing, wanting nothing more than to come screaming to the surface, but Charles is still not ready to put his emotions and heart on the line.  Liza is disappointed to learn that Charles leaves in the morning and she speaks to Chrissie and tells her what an inspiration she was to her and how much she helped her after her marriage fell apart and that she can continue to help others and delivers the manuscript to Charles.  When Charles asks Liza how she was able to get this, she reminds him that she didn’t run away, putting the ball back into his court.  Will Charles wait too long to let Liza know how he truly feels?  We know that Josh is waiting in the wings and it’s only a matter of time before Liza closes the door on her feelings for Charles for good.  Will Charles and Liza finally get a chance to explore a real relationship?  Stay tuned!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own theories and thoughts on Younger 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, and mystery, then this might be the book for you or someone you know!  Thank you for taking the time to check it out and I appreciate any feedback as well.  I hope you enjoy!

The Search for Alice is available here!

The Search for Alice Cover