Tag: Riverdale

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Riverdale” Season 5 Episode 6: “Back to School”

Happy Thursday TV fans! After watching The CW’s Riverdale season 5 episode 6, I learned that high school offers hope, but is that enough to bring a town back to life?

Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet. 

In episode, “Chapter Eighty-Two: Back to School,” the Barchie time jump continues to provide us with some passionate moments. Meanwhile, Veronica sings karaoke with her husband, Hiram eats a bag of Doritos in the most sinister way, and Betty investigates Polly’s disappearance.

My top 5 moments from Riverdale season 5 episode 6 are:

5

“What do you want to know?”

Riverdale season 5 episode 6 Tabitha

Images courtesy of The CW

Jughead wants to know more about the town for his next book and asks Tabitha if he can interview her. Tabitha Tate is the newest addition to the show played by Erinn Westbrook. Jughead starts to learn more about the “Mothman Mystery,” but I have a feeling that we may see a romantic story-line thrown our way between these two.

4

“What the hell?”

The Barchie time jump scenes do not disappoint in this episode. Betty and Archie realize that they need to be creative about where they get together and we witness a steamy make-out session in the car.

Riverdale season 5 episode 6 Barchie

Images courtesy of The CW

Only, this is interrupted when some of the Stonewall Prep students decide to light a fire in Riverdale High.

Fear not because we do get some more Barchie action later on in the episode and I think that it’s safe to say that these two may actually be end game after all.

More please!

3

“Let’s see what you can do.”

Reggie continues to be annoying, but I actually really laughed out loud when Archie punched him in the face. You had it coming, Reggie. Archie decides to try and get the football team going at school, but he needs more funding and Cheryl has already done her part.

Riverdale season 5 episode 6 Archie Reggie

Images courtesy of The CW

Meanwhile, Toni re-ignites the Vixens and Cheryl is far from pleased. She takes a break from her counterfeit painting scam to tell Toni that she is not going to let her take the Vixens away and I think this is the spark we have been looking for.

Welcome back, Queen Cheryl!

Luckily Archie does get the funding from Veronica so it looks like the school spirit can continue, but I’m not sure if this will really resolve the Hiram Lodge problem just yet. Just keep eating those Doritos, Hiram.

2

“Have you and my father been talking behind my back?”

Chad is my least favorite character right now. It feels like Veronica just married a younger version of her father. I don’t trust him and I think she can do so much better.

Riverdale season 5 episode 6 Chadwick

Images courtesy of The CW

Sure, they put on a show-stopping karaoke number, but it’s all an act and I was proud of Veronica for telling him that they need some time apart at the end.

Although I can’t keep her name straight with all of these changes over the seasons…

1

“Polly’s missing.”

Betty and Kev start investigating Polly’s disappearance which was the most interesting part of the episode. Apparently Polly was selling Jingle Jangle and hooking up with truckers and Toni points Betty in the right direction on the highway.

Betty messages one of the truckers and asks him to meet, but it’s clear that he didn’t have anything to do with Polly’s disappearance. Betty enlists the help of Alice and they go looking for clues in Swedlow Swamp.

I didn’t even know that Riverdale had a swamp, but at the end of the episode we hear a cell ringing and see a corpse hand in a shallow grave.

Is it Polly?

I’m thinking it’s the body of Lynette Fields and they are going to connect this to Polly, but we’ll have to wait until March 10th for a new episode.

In the meantime, check out my feature for Mystery & Suspense Magazine on why the Riverdale time jump is exactly what we need here!

Stay tuned, Riverdale fans!

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

PLAY BY THE RULES…STAY ALIVE…

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

Play if you dare…

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Ranking the top 5 moments from “Riverdale” Season 5 Episode 5: “The Homecoming”

Happy Thursday TV fans! After watching The CW’s Riverdale season 5 episode 5, I learned that coming home may seem difficult at first, but the more things change…the more they stay the same.

Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet. 

In episode, “Chapter Eighty-One: The Homecoming,” our core four adjust to life back in Riverdale. Meanwhile, Hiram attempts to destroy Riverdale for good, Veronica’s husband is proving to be a nuisance, and the potential truck killer returns. 

My top 5 moments from Riverdale season 5 episode 5 are:

5

“It’s good to see you…”

In the beginning of the episode, we get a somewhat awkward reunion between Betty and Jughead. They both agree that it is good to see one another, but it’s clear that they haven’t really talked much in years. I think that the reunion went well, but I didn’t really see any sparks flying between these two anymore…

Is the love triangle over? We’ll have to wait and see…

4

“When do we kick their asses?”

Archie is determined to get the Ghoulies out of his house and even goes to Reggie for help. Only Reggie seems more interested in testing out his latest hair gel product and he is loyal to Hiram Lodge now…but why? Does Hiram have something over him?

Rivedale Reggie season 5 episode 5

Images courtesy of The CW

It’s clear that someone warned the Ghoulies and they got all of the drugs out of the house, but Betty is not about to sit by and let this happen…especially when she finds out that Polly is hanging around with them.

Yep, Polly is back and Betty discovers that she is lying about her waitress job, but where is she getting all of that cash?

Betty and Polly Riverdale season 5 episode 5

Images courtesy of The CW

Betty and the others form a raid and find what they are looking for and I loved seeing the team-up between Betty and Archie here…talk about sparks…

3

“Would you do it for me?”

Meanwhile, the school administrators are concerned because Hiram Lodge is trying to dissolve the town. That means that funding would be cut and it would basically be “the death of Riverdale.”

Toni is determined to stop him and they come up with a plan to make the school private, which would allow them to hire their own teachers.

Toni goes to Cheryl and even though she initially doesn’t want to get involved, she ends up putting up the money to help Toni.

I still believe in Choni and I hope that Cheryl can see that she can still do good in this town…

2

“What just happened?”

What just happened is, we got the hot and steamy Barchie scene we have been waiting for…wow!

Riverdale season 5 episode 5 Barchie shower scene

Images courtesy of The CW

Afterwards, Betty and Archie seem just as confused and say that they are friends, but I think this is the start of a beautiful romance.

Jughead has been out of the picture for years and Veronica is married, but things might get a bit complicated if Jughead actually decides to move in with Archie…

Betty and Archie have grown up a lot and they finally get a chance to explore the feelings between them, but I have a feeling that the drama will never leave them alone completely…

1

“Bulldogs forever.”

After getting the funding, Hiram does still dissolve the town, but we learn that life continues anyway. Archie, Betty, Veronica, and Jughead will be staying in town as temporary teachers and perhaps they can really bring this town back to life.

Meanwhile, Pop retires and we get a heartfelt speech about his influence over the town.

Riverdale season 5 episode 5 Pops

Images courtesy of The CW

The mystery isn’t over just yet; however, as we now see Polly running from the mysterious trucker that followed Lynette Fields at the end of episode 4.

So, who is this trucker?

Is Polly alive or dead?

In the meantime, check out my feature for Mystery & Suspense Magazine on why the Riverdale time jump is exactly what we need here!

I’m invested and I can’t wait to find out more. Stay tuned, Riverdale fans!

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

PLAY BY THE RULES…STAY ALIVE…

Main promo smaller

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

Play if you dare…

Dash and Seek is available here!

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

 

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Riverdale” Season 5 Episode 4: “Purgatory”

Happy Thursday TV fans! After watching The CW’s Riverdale season 5 episode 4, seven years may have gone by, but did everything truly change in the town of Riverdale?

Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet. 

In episode, “Chapter Eighty: Purgatory,” we jump seven years in the future as Archie returns home to learn that the Riverdale he knew and loved is not the same anymore. Meanwhile, we catch up with the rest of the characters and learn more about their new lives as a new mystery brings them back to town.

My top 5 moments from Riverdale season 5 episode 4 are:

5

“Women can have it all now.”

Great point, V, but I’m not sure if I’m really buying the fact that you used to be the “She Wolf of Wall Street.” Either way, it’s quite catchy and Veronica feels like she has been losing her edge with her new husband, Chadwick.

Married life may not be right for her, but a helicopter accident had her changing her tune slightly.

Even though Veronica’s life has changed and she appears to be settling down in a lot of ways, Archie’s phone call brings her right back to Riverdale.

4

“One hit wonder…”

It should come as no surprise that Jughead became a writer since it was his dream, but I didn’t expect him to become a drunk and a “one hit wonder.” Jughead is also on the run from debt collectors and meets a female stranger who seems more interested in having Jughead read her novel rather than being with him, which shows that his connections are few and far between now.

Riverdale Jughead 1

Images courtesy of The CW

Will there be any leftover sparks now that he has been reunited with Betty? We’ll have to wait and see…

3

“The Blossom curse runs deep.”

Toni is the first person Archie speaks to when he returns home to Riverdale. We know that Archie was in a war and is now being asked to revive the R.O.T.C. program in Riverdale and Toni is very…pregnant.

Riverdale Archie 1

Images courtesy of The CW

But apparently the identity of the father is a secret…

I have a feeling she is a surrogate for Kev and Fangs, but we’ll see about that.

Meanwhile, Toni talks about what happened to Cheryl and it looks like Cheryl has truly become the weird loner of Thornhill. She spends her time painting and even when Toni tells her they could be together, she seems like she has accepted her fate to be alone.

I’m missing the fire from our Queen and I hope it returns soon. We need you Cheryl!

2

“How are the nightmares?”

Out of all of the flash forwards, Betty’s story is the most interesting. Betty joined the FBI and was held captive by the Trash Bag Killer or “TBK.”

She says she is over it, but it’s clear that she is still carrying around a lot of emotional damage from it. TBK escaped so is it possible that he made his way back to Riverdale?

Riverdale Betty 1

Images courtesy of The CW

We know that our girl is no stranger to hunting down serial killers, but I have to say that I really miss the ponytail!

Betty has a new boyfriend as well, but what will happen now that she has been reunited with both Archie and Jughead?

Hmm…

1

Together again.

At the end of the episode, our characters are reunited and are determined to save Riverdale, which has become a lawless town. There is a new mystery surrounding someone named Lynette Fields that has captured their attention, but I have a feeling that a lot more secrets are about to be unraveled. Oh and of course Hiram Lodge is still causing trouble, but Reggie is his right hand man? Honestly Reggie, I expected more from you!

After watching the episode, I liked the vibe of the show. It almost seemed kind of like the sequel to “IT” when everyone returns home, but as long as they leave some of the ridiculous flash forwards behind (seriously Veronica’s future leaves something to be desired), we should be in good shape!

Oh and let’s get those Ghoulies out of Archie’s house…

Stay tuned Riverdale fans!

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

PLAY BY THE RULES…STAY ALIVE…

Main promo smaller

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

Play if you dare…

Dash and Seek is available here!

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

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Riverdale” Season 5 Episode 3: “Graduation”

Happy Friday TV fans! After watching The CW’s Riverdale season 5 episode 3, Betty and Jughead asked an important question: “are we just doomed to be haunted by this town for the rest of our lives?”

While graduation is a celebration, it is also a moment of change, but will our favorite characters keep to their word or go their separate ways?

Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet. 

In episode, “Chapter Seventy-Nine: Graduation,” everyone prepares for graduation, but not everyone is staying in town. Meanwhile, Archie makes an important decision that may forever change his life.

My top 5 moments from Riverdale season 5 episode 3 are:

5

“What does that mean?”

FP announces in the beginning of the episode that he is going to move with Jellybean to get her some help and be there for her, but Alice is shocked by his decision.

We haven’t really been getting any real screen time for Falice which has been extremely disappointing and when Skeet Ulrich announced that he would be leaving the show last year, I was wondering how this would end.

Riverdale season 5 episode 3 Falice

Images courtesy of The CW

Well, it ends with FP riding off on his motorcycle in style, but we do get to witness one more passionate kiss between him and Alice.

The show has grown up a lot over the years and many of the parents don’t really have a place in Riverdale anymore, but hopefully they will stay in touch or pop in for a quick cameo here and there!

4

“Stay young for as long as you can.”

Betty brought us a thought-provoking graduation speech and I thought these words were important because many of our favorite characters tend to take on too much at such a young age. Veronica and Cheryl own businesses, Betty and Jughead solve mysteries, and Archie has had to deal with way too much tragedy over the years.

Riverdale season 5 episode 3 1

Images courtesy of The CW

I loved the idea of the time capsule and even though we have seen this on other shows (Saved by the Bell, Beverly Hills, 90210), I thought it was an important milestone for everyone.

But, how will Riverdale change? I’m interested to find out, but I think that leaving high school could be a very good thing for this show.

3

“It’s not too late is it?”

We got several flashbacks thrown into the mix and Archie even had a dream where Fred was alive, witnessing him graduate, which brought some tears to my eyes. After learning about the time capsule, Archie makes the decision to join the army.

Riverdale season 5 episode 3 Fred

Images courtesy of The CW

While he seems confident in his answer, Veronica is outraged by it because she doesn’t want anything to happen to him, but perhaps this is exactly what Archie needs to find out who he is.

Archie has always been the hero of the town so I think that he is just trying to still embrace that while making his father proud.

2

“I have to fix things here…”

Cheryl looked absolutely fabulous in her red gown and of course she has to stand out in the crowd. However, she makes the decision to stay in Riverdale and not go to school with Toni, which had me crying, but I sort of knew it was coming.

Riverdale season 5 episode 3 Cheryl

Images courtesy of The CW

I think that Cheryl has the potential to do some real good in town, but let’s hope that this isn’t the end of Choni for good. My heart can’t take that!

1

“I should have told you right when it happened.”

Meanwhile, the breakups continue as Betty finally comes clean to Jughead and tells him that she kissed Archie. They seem to get over it pretty quickly, but there is a divide that forms between them and Betty goes off to college early.

Riverdale season 5 episode 3 Bughead

Images courtesy of The CW

Jughead is left alone in town, but his friends make a pact to meet back at Pop’s in a year.

Only Jughead is the only one who returns, but what does this mean?

Are the others truly too busy? Have they really moved on?

Next week’s episode looks really confusing and presents us with a what-if extreme for each of our characters set seven years in the future, but I’m hoping that we get a new mystery in town to bring them all back together again. The trailer seemed really chaotic and almost ridiculous so I’m hoping that this is not the true direction of the show, but change could be a very good thing. Let’s just execute it properly!

Stay tuned Riverdale fans!

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

PLAY BY THE RULES…STAY ALIVE…

Main promo smaller

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

Play if you dare…

Dash and Seek is available here!

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

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Riverdale” Season 5 Episode 2: “The Preppy Murders”

Happy Thursday TV fans! After watching The CW’s Riverdale season 5 episode 2, reveals were made and second chances were given…

Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet. 

In last night’s episode, “Chapter Seventy-Eight: The Preppy Murders,” someone is targeting the group from Stonewall Prep, dangling clues for Betty and Jughead. Meanwhile, Cheryl attempts to redeem her family’s reputation, the Lodge women attempt to bring Hiram down, and Archie has a breakdown.

My top 5 moments from Riverdale season 5 episode 2 are:

5

“We’re shutting you down.”

After a close call with a group of Hiram’s enemies, Veronica is saved by…Hermosa. Yeah, apparently Hermosa carries a gun and knows how to use it. I’ll skip that and fast forward to the part where Veronica, Hermosa, and Hermione agree to team up to finally bring Hiram down.

Riverdale Hermione Lodge season 5 episode 2

Images courtesy of The CW

After several attempts, Hiram gives in and it looks like he is going to be taking a vacation for a while…only Hermione will not be joining him as she announces that she is divorcing him and becoming a Real Housewife of New York…talk about an exit!

4

“I’ve got some work to do here in Riverdale.”

Even though it seems like Toni is still trying to work on things with her family so that she and Cheryl can live happily ever after, this has ignited a fire within Cheryl and she is determined to make things right once and for all.

Cheryl tries to convince her family to let her re-brand the business so that she can finally do some good, but they don’t agree. This forces Cheryl to turn to Penelope Blossom, who apparently poisons her entire family…yep, don’t get on her bad side.

Cheryl is in charge and maybe she can finally do some good. Even though things are a little rocky for Choni, they did take that mini vacation together, but I was happy to finally see Cheryl in her element.

3

“You can’t just fight the pain away.”

Good point, Uncle Frank, but Archie is determined to. The video tape left for him has really brought all of his emotions and grief to the surface. Archie visits his father’s grave and struggles throughout the episode when his mother asks him if he would consider making a statement to help the kid who killed his dad.

Riverdale season 5 episode 2 Archie

Images courtesy of The CW

In the end, Uncle Frank comes to help out and lets Archie beat him up so that he can release all of the pain and it looks like Archie is finally coming out of this dark spot. He ends up writing a letter to help the kid as well, which was no easy task. He had me in tears a few times during the episode, but what comes next for Archie after graduation? Well, hopefully he can actually graduate…

2

“You got sloppy…”

I really love it when Betty takes someone down. After getting a cryptic phone call from Bret, he is found dead in his cell the next day and his eyes were gouged out…yuck. Betty gets a call from Donna and learns that someone is targeting them. Later on, we finally get the reveal that many of us guessed from the start.

The serial killer is…Charles. Apparently, Charles thinks that he is Dexter and only kills bad people…

Either way, Betty is not buying it and we also finally hear about his accomplice, Chic, who was the one who killed Bret in jail.

Mystery solved…except he is not behind the video tapes.

1

“Are you the one making those video tapes?”

So, we don’t have to wait too long to wrap up the other mystery as we discover that the person behind the creepy video tapes is…Jellybean Jones.

Yep, all of these weird appearances from Jellybean finally make sense and she is the one with access to pretty much everything.

Riverdale season 5 episode 3 Jelly Bean

Images courtesy of The CW

Jughead asks her why and apparently this was to keep him home. She thought that giving him a mystery would keep him close to her, but Jughead explains to his dad that he is not sure that she fully comprehends what she did and I’m a little worried about her well-being. Apparently, she was working with that weird kid Ricky we used to see her with.

Sure, she didn’t harm anyone, but those video tapes really hurt people. Look what they did to Cheryl and to Archie…there need to be some consequences…like, send her to a family member’s place for a while? I mean…something?

Either way, the mysteries are solved and we can finally move on to graduation. This episode was jam-packed with quite a lot once again and it still had that erratic feel. I’m feeling a little rushed with all of this and I am anxious to get to a new mystery so that we can get back to the Riverdale I love and enjoy.

Stay tuned Riverdale fans!

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

PLAY BY THE RULES…STAY ALIVE…

Main promo smaller

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

Play if you dare…

Dash and Seek is available here!

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

 

 

 

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Riverdale” Season 5 Episode 1: “Climax”

Happy Thursday TV fans! After watching The CW’s Riverdale season 5 episode 1 season premiere, we were reminded how quickly life on Riverdale can turn into a Jamie Lee Curtis movie…

Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet. 

In last night’s episode, “Chapter Seventy-Seven: Climax,” everyone gets ready to attend the prom, but is this the end for some of our favorite couples? Meanwhile, the videotape killers continue to wreak havoc while Betty and Jughead try to get to the bottom of everything.

My top 5 moments from Riverdale season 5 episode 1 are:

5

“I’m beating it.”

I think it’s worth mentioning that Hiram Lodge is now suddenly getting better because he is beating up everyone in town. Veronica calls the doctors to confirm, but we know it’s only a matter of time before Hiram sinks his teeth into some other dark scandal.

4

“So you’re my competition.”

After the cancellation of Katy Keene, we knew we would be seeing some of the characters from that spin-off show pop up in Riverdale and K.O. Kelly is the first one. Veronica suggests that they have an exhibition boxing match so that Archie can prove his worth to the navy scout.

Archie and KO Riverdale

Images courtesy of The CW

Archie really puts up a fight and he may have actually been the winner in my book, but K.O. takes the victory and Archie has a fit, saying he won’t apply in the future.

I think Archie needs to find his true calling before he spins out of control…

3

“This one’s for you Archiekins.”

Poor Veronica. After finding a song that Archie wrote, he throws it in the trash and tells her that it is no good, but of course we know that she is going to get up on stage and perform the song that he actually wrote for Betty to make things extremely awkward for everyone.

Riverdale Veronica Lodge season 5 episode 1

Images courtesy of The CW

Betty and Archie exchange a few glances and ultimately, Archie breaks up with Veronica at prom. He tells her about the kiss, but they decide not to tell Jughead, but it looks like Varchie will be heading in different directions after graduation.

I have a feeling that Hiram is going to take away that “deputy mayor” offer pretty quickly…watch out, Archie!

While I’m sad about this break-up, I think that Archie really needs to find out who he is without someone. Maybe he needs another spiritual road-trip or something…

2

“Was there ever any doubt?”

Varchie is not the only couple to have some major obstacles to get through during prom. We start off with some cute and hilarious moments with Choni, as they petition to be co-queens of prom.

They have my vote for sure!

Later on, Cheryl asks about meeting Toni’s grandmother and is upset to find out that she has to pretend that she is not her girlfriend. Cheryl takes things into her own hands and goes to see Toni’s grandmother, which leads to more drama.

We find out that Toni’s grandmother doesn’t want her dating Cheryl because she is a Blossom and they have wronged their family for too many years.

Choni Riverdale season 5 episode 1

Images courtesy of The CW

Toni is able to show up to prom with Cheryl and we watch them become prom queens, but the moment is short-lived.

Toni tells Cheryl to give her some time, but Cheryl broke my heart when she was crying in Nana Rose’s lap, explaining that she is destined to be alone.

I really hope that Cheryl and Toni find a way back together, but if I’m being honest, they needed this. There hasn’t really been a lot going on in their relationship lately and perhaps this will allow them both to grow as characters and I’m hoping that they can find a way back to each other.

All hail, Choni!

1

“To surviving this town…”

While all this drama is going on, we also get Betty and Jughead teaming up to bring down the videotape killer or killers. They even go to visit Bret in jail to get some intel and are told to make a snuff movie, allowing us to witness Cheryl and Reggie show off some of their acting skills. Loved the wig, Cheryl!

Riverdale season 5 episode 1

Images courtesy of The CW

David at Blue Velvet Video knows that it is a fake, but Betty turns over the tape of her father when he was a young boy and says he is the Black Hood. They get the invite they have been looking for and end up crossing paths with Jellybean (what?) while trying to figure out who the director behind the curtain is.

During prom, the music is cut short and we witness another film where masked strangers are murdering Dave, proving it is not him. I have to say that these killers have been giving me some Purge vibes and I want to know more.

Archie gets a video at his doorstep and it looks like this is going to unlock even more rage inside of him so we’ll have to see how this plays out.

Overall, the season 5 premiere felt slightly chaotic and all over the place. I realize this episode was actually supposed to be part of season 4 before shooting was put on hold because of the pandemic, but I’m feeling a little overwhelmed and I’m hoping we can put some of the drama aside and focus on the mystery at hand.

I did love seeing everyone dressed up for prom and Betty’s dress was my favorite! But, do you think Jughead could have taken off his hat just this once?

Stay tuned, Riverdale fans!

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

PLAY BY THE RULES…STAY ALIVE…

Main promo smaller

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

Play if you dare…

Dash and Seek is available here!

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

Ranking your Favorite Female Performances on Television for 2020

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

Again, it was difficult for me to narrow down my favorite female performances for 2020 because there were honestly so many and I didn’t think it was possible for me to choose my absolute favorite one, which is where you came in!    

I ran a three round poll (randomized tournament style) on Twitter and asked for fans to cast their votes so that we can all decide who our favorite female performances are for the year.  Thank you so much for your participation and support, as the tournament was so much fun and actually really competitive!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Image courtesy of Netflix

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

4th place: Claire Danes as Carrie Mathison from Homeland

Image courtesy of Showtime

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

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

Image courtesy of HBO Max

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

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

Image courtesy of AMC

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

Drum roll please…

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

Image courtesy of BBC America

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

Thanks to all the fans who voted!  I wish you all the best for the New Year!

View Final Poll Results Here!

I hope you enjoyed the list and please feel free to post your thoughts and comments below on some of your favorite female performances on TV from 2020. Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing for 2021!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

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

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

It was difficult for me to narrow down my favorite ships for 2020 and I didn’t think it was possible for me to choose my absolute favorite one, which is where you came in!

I ran a three round poll (randomized tournament style) on Twitter and asked for fans to cast their votes for their favorite ships of the year on TV.  Thank you so much for your participation and support, as the tournament was so much fun and actually really competitive!

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

Round One featured the following ships/couples from 2020:

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

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

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

Very Riverdale-centric but a few surprises as well!

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

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

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

Hacy 1

Image courtesy of The CW

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

3rd place:  Ian & Mickey (Gallavich)

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

Gallavich 1

Image courtesy of Showtime

2nd place:  Betty & Archie (Barchie)

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

Barchie 1

Image courtesy of The CW

Drum roll please…

1st place: Chloe & Lucifer (Deckerstar)

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

Deckerstar 1

Image courtesy of Netflix

Thanks to all the fans who voted!  I wish you all the best for the upcoming New Year!

View Final Poll Results Here!

I hope you enjoyed the list and please feel free to post your thoughts and comments below on some of your favorite ships on TV from 2020. Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

 

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

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

Welcome to Bridgeport…

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

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

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

Here is the trailer:

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

The Pros:

The Hardy Boys Hulu 1

Images courtesy of Hulu

Smart choice of time and setting.

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

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

Let the mysteries begin!

The Hardy Boys Hulu 2

Images courtesy of Hulu

Believable bond between the brothers.

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

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

The Cons:

The Hardy Boys Hulu 3

Images courtesy of Hulu

The mystery is just kind of okay…

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

Too many episodes.

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

So am I in or out?

The Hardy Boys Hulu 4

Images courtesy of Hulu

I’m in about 75 percent.

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

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

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

DON’T TAKE THE JOB…

Girl Number Thirteen Lurking Promo

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

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

Girl Number Thirteen is available here!

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

My performance of the week ending 5/9/20 on TV goes to…

Kerr Smith as Mr. Honey on The CW’s Riverdale.

You may remember Kerr Smith best from Final Destination, Dawson’s Creek, and Charmed, but the captivating Kerr Smith has certainly made some waves in the town of Riverdale. Kerr Smith is no stranger to playing a character everyone loves to hate and he does so with charisma and charm as Holden Honey.

Please note spoilers are ahead if you are not caught up on season 4.

Don’t be fooled by his sugary sweet name. When Holden Honey arrives as the new principal, he is far from sweet. He is not intimidated by any of the students even though we know that Miss Cheryl Bombshell does not let anyone off that easy.

Mr Honey Riverdale CW 1
Images courtesy of The CW

He challenges Cheryl’s leadership of the Vixens, trashes Reggie’s car, attempts to ruin the variety show, and even has the nerve to try and cancel prom, which makes him seem like a “heinous villain.”

It also initially seemed like Mr. Honey could have been the creepy threat behind the video tapes, but after watching season 4 episode 19, it looks like we all may have been wrong about Mr. Honey’s intentions.

Sometimes you need to be harsh and strict in order to get results and that’s what Mr. Honey did. He tried to help the students of Riverdale and the school secretary even explains that college acceptance rates have been higher than ever. Not to mention that he didn’t lose a single student under his watch in murder friendly Riverdale.

Jughead is beyond shocked when he discovers that Mr. Honey even wrote a recommendation letter on his behalf to Iowa, supporting him, which proves that he has seen the potential in each and every one of his students. His methods may have been extreme and out there, but he has been trying to prepare them all for a life outside of Riverdale.

Mr Honey Riverdale CW 3
Images courtesy of The CW

Mr. Honey may have had the best of intentions, but we also can’t ignore the fact that he is accepting a new job at Stonewall Prep. He may not be completely innocent here and he plays the part of the guy we love to hate all too well. It looks like Mr. Honey may be exiting the show for a while but I’d love to see him return. I have a feeling that whatever villain is truly lurking in the shadows would be scared by Mr. Honey.

What’s next for Mr. Honey? Well, we know he’s off to Stonewall Prep, but I have a feeling that he may be checking in on Riverdale from time to time. He certainly has access to a lot of confidential information and it wouldn’t surprise me if Betty needs to look him up once or twice for some intel.

Mr Honey Riverdale CW 2
Images courtesy of The CW

Either way, I have to say that Kerr Smith has been phenomenal on the show. We have had some really great villains over the seasons, but Mr. Honey really made an impact and wedged his way into every inner circle, proving that he should not be underestimated.

Now about those tapes…

Stay tuned for a recognized performance on TV each week!

Have a performance on TV that you think is simply outstanding? Feel free to contact me with your nomination for the week by Friday at midnight! 

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

PLAY BY THE RULES…STAY ALIVE…

Main promo smaller

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

Play if you dare…

Dash and Seek is available here!

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

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!