Review of the “Charmed” Season 3 Finale on The CW: The Curse of Being the Eldest Sister

*Please note that MAJOR spoilers are ahead if you are not caught up on the Charmed reboot series.*

“This was a life of sacrifice…”

The Charmed reboot just finished its third season and while the original series remains as one of my favorite series of all time, the reboot has been finding its way and its own voice over the seasons separate from the original series. I almost feel like the reboot should have been called something different so that one doesn’t make comparisons, but after watching the season 3 finale, I immediately began to make connections and parallels. The season 3 finale aired on July 23rd 2021. The show stars Madeleine Mantock, Sarah Jeffery, Melonie Diaz, and Rupert Evans.

Before watching the season finale, I read the news that Madeleine Mantock (Eldest sister, Macy) would not be returning to the show for season 4, which pretty much gave away the ending of the season 3 finale for me.

While I respect her decision to leave the show, I can’t help remembering how Shannen Doherty’s character, Prue also only lasted three seasons on the original series, which was one of the most heartbreaking moments of the show for me, but luckily Rose McGowan seamlessly stepped into the role as long-lost sister, Paige to keep fans invested.

Shannen Doherty’s departure was very sudden and there was a lot that I wish had been done differently if things had gone another way, but with Macy’s departure, we got to witness a beautiful episode that may be the strongest of the reboot series to date.

But does the season finale do enough to keep us coming back for more magic in the future now that we know that one of our key characters is not coming back? Let’s find out…

The Pros:

Images courtesy of The CW

Clever use of what-if dream sequences.

It’s difficult to say goodbye to characters we have come to know and love. For me, the sudden ones stay with me the most. However, the Charmed reboot took a different approach with Macy’s goodbye after she defeated the Whispering Evil by basically sacrificing herself. We got to witness several dream sequences from a spell of her being able to do everything she wanted to do. We witnessed fun moments like on a carousel and sky diving, leading up to a beautiful Hacy wedding that actually had me in tears.

I thought this was a smart decision because it prevented the episode from feeling too heavy. I actually thoroughly enjoyed these moments. They were heartwarming and truly touching.

Images courtesy of The CW

Harry’s love is inspiring.

Love on Charmed has always been a roller coaster ride of emotions. When I think of what Piper and Leo went through over the seasons along with Phoebe and Cole, it seems hard to come close to these ships, but Hacy fans have a lot to celebrate and mourn in this episode. I think that one of the best parts of the reboot has been the relationship between Harry and Macy and while we got to see a beautiful moment with their what-if wedding, what does Macy’s death mean for Harry?

We got that cliffhanger ending at the end and learn that Jordan might actually be the new whitelighter so does that mean Harry will be leaving as well or is he destined to find a new path? While I’m deeply saddened that these two did not get to truly live out their happily ever after, you have to admire and respect Harry’s loyalty and love for Macy. It’s something truly extraordinary and I think the season finale captured this well, although I would have liked to see a little more screen time for these two together.

The Cons:

Images courtesy of The CW

The timing of the announcement.

I heard about the news of Macy’s departure from the show a few days before the season finale aired, which kind of ruined things for me. I went into the show knowing what to expect and I think that I would have loved this episode even more if I had gone into it not knowing what was going to happen to Macy. The episode was done well, but I would have liked to have been surprised.

While the episode was heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time, the impact felt different than when Prue died, which was such a shock. Piper’s reaction to Prue’s death was one of the most heartbreaking scenes I have ever witnessed and while I think the sisters stood by Macy in her last moments, I needed to feel a little bit more from them to truly understand and sympathize with the pain I had felt when we lost another Charmed sister years ago.

So am I in or out?

Images courtesy of The CW

I’m in for now!

In addition to the cliffhanger with Jordan, we also learned that there is another one out there to be a part of the power of three. So, do these sisters have a Paige waiting in the wings? We’ll have to wait and see, but it is enough to spark my curiosity so I will continue to watch for now, but I have to say that I am disappointed about Macy’s departure. For me, she was the strongest sister on the show and I’m not sure what this means for Harry now.

I also am going to miss Abby on the show, who played the villain you loved to hate with flair so I’m not sure if the power of two can keep things going.

Stay tuned for season 4!

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

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

DON’T TAKE THE JOB…

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

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

Girl Number Thirteen is available here!

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

Spoiler-Free Review of the “Kung Fu” Season Finale on The CW: This Show Just Became a Contender

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

“Look beyond the duality of good and evil…”

Kung Fu premiered on The CW on April 7th 2021. Season one features thirteen episodes and the season finale aired on July 21st 2021. The series stars Olivia Liang, Shannon Dang, Gavin Stenhouse, and Tzi Ma. Each episode runs for approximately 42 minutes.

Inspired by the 1972 series of the same name, The CW’s Kung Fu introduces us to Nicky Shen, who ends up running away from her family to become a Shaolin monk. After her mentor is killed and a mysterious sword is stolen, Nicky returns home and encounters several new threats along the way while trying to make things right with her family.

Season one brought us a good balance of epic fight scenes, the mystery behind the great power, and some welcomed family drama and levity. The episodes were entertaining, but followed a new weekly case/mission style, which meant that you could easily skip an episode and then return to the show without skipping a beat.

However, as we got toward the later episodes of the season, the mystery behind Nicky’s destiny became more and more intriguing, leading up to the season finale. But does the season finale of Kung Fu do enough to bring us back for season two? Let’s find out…

The Pros:

Images courtesy of The CW

The Shen family can hold their own!

Sure, Nicky Shen may be the warrior of the family, but everyone consistently proves their worth and I thought the season finale did a good job of still reflecting Nicky’s family values and connections without overshadowing everything else going on.

It’s part of what makes her who she is and it gives her something to fight for.

There were some really great moments and I have to say that I will always be rooting for the Shen family!

Images courtesy of The CW

All hail Zhilan!

I just need to take a moment to recognize how amazing Yvonne Chapman is at portraying the villainess, Zhilan. I thought that the later episodes of the season did a good job of developing her character more. She could have easily been molded into a typical “bad gal,” but there is a lot of complexity to her character and it actually really enhanced the whole “duality” plot even further.

I think she is truly fantastic and how does she always look so stunning?

Epic final battle.

I really love watching the fight scenes on this show. While most of them involve a pop music soundtrack in the background, the one in the season finale needed to feel different and I thought it was truly fantastic.

There was a true artistry to the choreography behind the fight scene and it was magical watching our two leading ladies face off on screen.

More please!

The Cons:

Images courtesy of The CW

Nice and neat.

I don’t want anything to happen to any of the characters on this show, but things felt a little too nice and neat by the end. A sacrifice needs to be made or something tragic needs to happen to keep Nicky’s fight relevant, but there is plenty of time for that in season two.

So am I in or out?

Images courtesy of The CW

I’m in!

I’ve truly enjoyed my watch of this show, but the season finale really stepped things up for me. I thought it was really entertaining and the set-up for season two looks like we’re heading in the right direction to keep this show going strong.

Nicky Shen is a warrior worth rooting for and I can’t wait to see what she does next!

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

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

DON’T TAKE THE JOB…

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

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

Girl Number Thirteen is available here!

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

Spoiler-Free Review of “Lucifer” Season 5B on Netflix: Emotional Perfection

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

“Everyone deserves a second chance…”

Lucifer follows the devil himself, who decides to take a vacation on earth while teaming up with Detective Chloe Decker to solve crimes. Season 5B features the remaining eight episodes of the fifth season. It premiered on May 28th 2021 and all episodes are available to stream now. The show stars Tom Ellis, Lauren German, Kevin Alejandro, D.B. Woodside, and Lesley Ann-Brandt.

After some epic moments in the first half of the fifth season, Lucifer now has to deal with his family head on. The episodes present the audience with a roller coaster ride of emotions as we laugh, cry, and root for our favorite characters against all odds.

Here is the trailer:

Lucifer Season 5B was truly moving and entertaining from start to finish. There were some standout episodes, but the crescendo of moments mirroring Lucifer’s quest to find himself have a serious impact, leading to a cliffhanger ending that will leave you wanting even more.

So, is Lucifer season 5B worth a watch? Let’s find out…

The Pros:

Lucifer season 5B 1

Images courtesy of Netflix

Great guest stars and returning favorites.

If you watched season 5, then you know that God has arrived. There has been a lot of family drama between the angels, but God really was a delight to watch and I thought Dennis Haysbert was truly outstanding and a welcomed addition.

I was worried that the family drama might become overdone, but it really helped shed some light on the dynamic between all of the characters and it also brought us some hilarious moments as well.

We also got to see several familiar faces throughout the second half of season 5, but there will be no spoilers here. Let’s just say that you’ll be happy to see them!

Lucifer season 5B 2

Images courtesy of Netflix

Standout episodes and performances.

Much like the first half of season 5, there were some more standout episodes that really had me entertained. Season 5, episode 12 was a welcomed surprise. Some of these episodes actually really had me channeling some Buffy the Vampire Slayer as well, which is a good thing.

I don’t like to make too many comparisons to one of my favorite shows of all time, but there really was a great balance throughout the second half of the season that deserves some serious recognition.

Real character development.

We’ve seen Lucifer grow over the seasons, but I thought that Tom Ellis did an exceptional job in the second half of the season. When we got to the big moments, he really had me in tears and there were a lot of heartbreaking moments to deal with, but I felt like we had a worthy redeemed hero to guide us through them, which made me care about the show even more.

The Cons:

Lucifer season 5B 3

Images courtesy of Netflix

Needed more Deckerstar.

I shouldn’t really complain because we got plenty of that in the first half of the season, but I was missing some of the epic moments at first and I also thought that Chloe didn’t really seem like herself. There was a lot of talk about sacrifice, but I lost part of what makes Chloe who she is and I had some mixed thoughts on it.

So am I in or out?

Lucifer season 5 B 4

Images courtesy of Netflix

I’m in 100 percent!

Season 5 really stepped up to the challenge. There were some really fun moments, but there were also some really heartbreaking ones too that still have me in tears. I think these moments were necessary; however, as it gave the show the fuel it needs to become something truly extraordinary as our characters start to realize who they are and who they can still become and I’m excited to be along for the journey.

I can’t wait to see what happens next in season 6!

Stay tuned!

I hope you enjoyed the review and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on Lucifer season 5B 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 Only Job

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

Girl Number Thirteen is available here!

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

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Supernatural” season 15 episode 17: “Unity”

Happy Saturday TV fans! After watching The CW’s Supernatural season 15 episode 17, I remembered that “we don’t give up on family.”

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

In episode 17, “Unity,” Sam and Dean continue to view things differently on how to ultimately take down Chuck. Meanwhile, Castiel helps Sam discover the truth while Dean and Jack have a heart-to-heart chat.

My top 5 moments from Supernatural season 15 episode 17 are:

5

“You ever get tired of saying stuff like that?”

Sam and Dean are still having some issues when it comes to Jack’s involvement in their plan. Dean continues to remind Sam that this is the only way, but Sam is not going to stay quiet on this one.

Sam tells Dean that he is not going with them, but Dean loses his temper and reminds him that Jack is not part of their family. Of course Jack overhears, which was heartbreaking to see, but it looks like Jack is ready to continue with his sacrifice to help save the world anyway.

4

“True balance.”

Meanwhile, Amara agrees to Dean’s terms, reminding him that they will always help each other. Amara and Chuck meet up and she tries to get him to remember why he loved this world in the first place.

Supernatural season 15 episode 17 3

Images courtesy of The CW

Chuck initially seems pleased by his fans, but the novelty wears off pretty quickly. Amara is not discouraged; however, as she takes him to the bunker and ends up trapping him there.

She tells Chuck that she can hold him long enough, but we know that Chuck always has something else up his sleeve…

3

“I need to say thank you.”

After Dean and Jack track down Adam and Jack passes his test with flying colors, he has what they need to complete the ritual. Once Jack absorbs it, he will not be able to stop it so they better be ready to go…

Supernatural season 15 episode 17 1

Images courtesy of The CW

On the car ride back, Dean admits to his mistake from earlier and tells Jack that he wants to thank him for everything he is doing. He is giving him and Sam a real chance to have a normal life and I was glad that Dean finally let his wall down for just a moment to let Jack know this.

Whether Dean wants to admit it or not, Jack is their family, but maybe he doesn’t see it right now.

I think that’s all about to change…

2

“We have to stop it.”

Sam and Castiel work together, hoping that there is some other way so that they can save Jack. They know they need to contact Billie, but Sam can’t die to do so. Of course, they now remember that there is a key hidden in the bunker and after some investigating, they find it.

Supernatural season 15 episode 17 2

Images courtesy of The CW

I thought it was actually really cool when Sam opened up the door in the wall, which could almost be its own separate adventure for him and Castiel.

When Sam walks through, he encounters Meg…or The Empty posing as Meg. Sam learns that this is all a power play and that Billie wants to take Chuck’s place so that she can return things to where they belong. But this would mean that old friends would die, demons would go back to hell and so on.

Always good to see you Meg!

1

“You always have a choice.”

Jack and Dean arrive with perfect timing, but Sam tries to get him to stop and listen to reason. Dean tells him that he has to stop Chuck, but Sam delivers an extremely touching speech once again.

Dean finally comes to his senses, but they may be too late. Amara learns the truth about Dean’s intentions and agrees to let Chuck consume her…or join with him…not too clear on that. Basically it looks like Chuck has shattered the balance and now contains both of their entities.

He blows open the door and tells the brothers that this was his plan all along, proving to constantly be one step ahead of our favorite heroes.

Chuck tells Sam and Dean to have fun watching Jack die before he disappears, leaving Jack ready to explode…talk about a cliffhanger.

Only three episodes left!

Stay tuned SPN Family!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on Supernatural 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 releases on November 12th 2020! Available for pre-order! I hope you enjoy!

Girl Number Thirteen is available here!

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

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Supernatural” season 15 episode 15: “Gimme Shelter”

Happy Sunday TV fans! After watching The CW’s Supernatural season 15 episode 15, I learned that a “highway to heaven but like with murder” spin-off might not be such a bad idea after all.

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

In episode 15, “Gimme Shelter” Castiel and Jack team up to investigate a case while Sam and Dean take a road trip to Atlantic City to find Amara.

My top 5 moments from Supernatural season 15 episode 15 are:

5

“Can we wear matching ties?”

Castiel doesn’t seem initially thrilled to be teamed up with Jack, but Jack’s excitement is contagious. While investigating some religious deaths at a shelter, Jack puts his skills to the test and even shows off that he “graduated from CSI.”

Supernatural Season 15 episode 15 Jack and Castiel

Images courtesy of The CW

The humor was needed here to break up some of the heavy moments we have been getting and we even get a Baby Yoda reference thrown in!

More please!

4

“We knew there was gonna be a catch.”

It’s not all fun and games as Sam and Dean take a moment to catch up on their quest during the car ride. They know that they are the messengers, but they will need to trick Amara in order for their plan to work.

We get a big discussion about the balance of things and know that Amara and Chuck represent light and darkness. Both will need to be stopped, but all of this talk of splitting into two had me thinking about the ultimate fate of the Winchesters as well…

We’ll have to see how this plays out.

3

“I do know what blind faith is.”

I have to admit that Castiel truly touched me in this episode. I’ve talked before about the transformation of Castiel’s character over the seasons and we get another real glimpse of it in this episode when Castiel stands before the group at the shelter to talk about his spiritual journey.

Supernatural season 15 episode 15 Castiel

Images courtesy of The CW

Castiel explains that he used to just follow orders, but he changed and found a family and became a father. He rediscovered his faith and also learned about his true purpose. This was probably one of the most vulnerable and real moments I have ever witnessed for Castiel and it got me wondering again about how The Empty said Castiel would be taken when he experiences that moment of true bliss.

Fatherhood is clearly the key and I’m starting to wonder if Castiel will somehow take Jack’s place and sacrifice himself…

2

“Why did you bring her back?”

Amara finds Sam and Dean way too easily, but decides she wants to grab a snack, especially since she hasn’t ever tried a Pennsylvania Pierogi  before.

There is a lot of shop talk, but Dean does ask an important question, wondering why Amara brought Mary back.

Amara explains that she wanted Dean to be able to move on with his life and experience Mary as a real person to replace the ideal/fantasy of her, which she considered to be a gift.

I actually thought this was extremely important for Dean because we know that he has been holding on to this pain. In the end, Dean asks Amara if she will help them and she agrees to think it over, but it seems like he has every intention of still betraying her even after their heart-to-heart conversation.

1

“This is the only way they’ll ever forgive me…”

At the very end of the episode, Jack reveals that the plan to stop God and Amara will ultimately kill him. He is basically a bomb that will go off to destroy them, but he will not survive.

Castiel refuses to let him do this, but Jack reminds him that it is his choice and that it’s the only way Sam and Dean will ever forgive him for killing Mary.

Supernatural season 15 episode 15 Jack

Images courtesy of The CW

We’ve seen Castiel and the brothers keep secrets before, but at the end, Castiel says that there is something Sam and Dean need to know. Is he going to tell them about what will happen to Jack or is he going to tell them something else? I’m hoping he goes with the truth because we’ve seen these secrets destroy their bond before.

I keep coming back to Castiel somehow taking Jack’s place in the end, but we still have 5 more episodes left.

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

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

PLAY BY THE RULES…STAY ALIVE..

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! I hope you enjoy!

READ 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 “The 100” season 7 episode 14: “A Sort of Homecoming”

Happy Saturday TV fans! After watching The CW’s The 100 season 7 episode 14, I learned that sometimes you are meant to wind up exactly where you started. So, do you take the fresh start or head back into the heart of unknown destruction?

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

In episode 14, “A Sort of Homecoming,” Clarke and the others are reunited back on Earth, but not everyone is ready to leave the people of Sanctum behind. Meanwhile, Sheidheda strikes a deal with Bill that endangers Madi and everyone attempts to cope with an unspeakable loss.

My top 5 moments from The 100 season 7 episode 14 are:

5

“I killed him…I had to.”

Clarke doesn’t hold anything back and immediately tells the others that she killed Bellamy. Octavia and Echo tell her that they understand, recognizing that the Bellamy they knew and loved was gone and that the true Bellamy would understand. There is a lot of coping going on in this episode as each character deals with this loss in their own way.

I have to admit that I even shed a tear when we saw Murphy crying, which was extremely emotional for me.

4

“Welcome home.”

When one door closes, another one opens. At least we finally find out where Gaia is and learn that she is alive and well. Phew!

 

The 100 7 14 Indra and Gaia The CW

Images courtesy of The CW

Gaia fills us in on what we’ve missed and everyone is reunited…at least for now.

3

“We were all Blodreina.”

Being back on Earth proves to be difficult for Octavia. Many of her memories come rushing back from her time as Blodreina and we even see a flashback of Kane. Indra reminds Octavia that they were all Blodreina and explains that they will face her demons together, which was a nice sentiment.

2

“I decided for everyone. That’s what I do.”

Madi is upset with Clarke for killing Bellamy to protect her and Clarke breaks down to her and tries to explain that this is what she does. This is not the first time we have seen Clarke carry the weight of the world on her shoulders to protect her friends.

The 100 7 14 Clarke The CW

Images courtesy of The CW

She makes the hard decisions so that they don’t have to, but this was probably the most difficult one of her life. 

That being said, let’s hope it was worth it…

1

“No one else is dying to save me.”

After making a deal with Bill, Sheidheda is somehow still OK to continue to annoy us and goes after Madi, revealing what he knows about her memories. Clarke realizes that she is in danger, desperately trying to find her before it is too late.

Madi is actually taking a minute to enjoy herself, learning piano from Gabriel, which was a sweet moment.

The 100 7 14 Gabriel and Madi The CW

Images courtesy of The CW

Unfortunately the moment is short-lived, as Gabriel is stabbed by invisible Sheidheda. Gabriel dies trying to save Madi and Sheidheda manages to go through the anomaly after getting quite the beat down from the incredible Indra and Gaia tag team.

Madi refuses to let anyone else die because of her and uses the knife to transport herself to Bill before Clarke can stop her. Then, we get more visitors and some kind of cave-in like explosion that could potentially trap or endanger Memori…don’t even get me started on that.

We know that Clarke has always been trying to protect her daughter, but Madi is capable of true leadership and strength and perhaps Clarke needs to have faith in her.

Only two episodes left!

May we meet again.

Rest in peace, Gabriel.

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on The 100 in the comments section below.  Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

PLAY BY THE RULES…STAY ALIVE…

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! I hope you enjoy!

READ 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!

Reliving the Same Day in Movies and Television: I’m totally having Déjà vu right now!

“Oh yeah, it means someone’s thinking about you while they’re masturbating. I get it six times a day.” (Danielle in Happy Death Day)

Reliving the same day again and again may seem overused in film and television, but somehow it still works, bringing new and inventive material our way without ever feeling stale and overdone.

So, what is it about Déjà vu? 

After recently watching and thoroughly enjoying the rom-com movie, Palm Springs on Hulu, I started to think about how many movies and television shows center around Déjà vu. Not to mention that some of our favorite television series of all time tend to have at least one episode dealing with some kind of time loop or Déjà vu.

While Groundhog Day still remains as the movie I automatically think about when it comes to Déjà vu, Happy Death Day certainly made a splash and proved that horror comedies can flourish using this theme. There has to be an element of comedy or the concept can become a little repetitive…pun intended.

Happy Death Day
Image courtesy of Blumhouse Productions

Some television series also took a stab at Déjà vu, but they were short-lived.

Remember shows like Tru Calling and Day Break?

Tru Calling
Image courtesy of FOX

No? I’ll remind you because they were actually pretty fantastic and addicting, but they did not last very long. Tru Calling (starring Eliza Dushku) was canceled after the short second season and Day Break (starring Taye Diggs) only got one season.

Day break
Image courtesy of ABC

Netflix’s Russian Doll also explored this concept more recently.

But let’s not also forget some of our favorite television shows like Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Charmed, and Supernatural. They have some pretty amazing stand-out episodes featuring the concept of a time loop or reliving the same day. Honestly, this list goes on and on and I’m sure that if you take a look back at some of your favorite shows, you will most likely find an episode that deals with some kind of time travel or Déjà vu.

Here are my standout episodes:

Supernatural
Image courtesy of The CW

Supernatural

Episode “Mystery Spot” (Season 3, episode 11).

Sam continues to relive the same day over and over as Dean dies. He must find a way to save him before time runs out.

Buffy Life Serial
Images courtesy of Hulu

Buffy the Vampire Slayer

Episode “Life Serial” (Season 6, episode 5).

Buffy attempts to find a job, but ends up stuck in a time loop while working at the Magic Box. This brought us some welcomed comedy for sure.

Deja Vu all over again Charmed
Image courtesy of Netflix

Charmed

Episode “Déjà Vu All Over Again” (Season 1, episode 22).

Phoebe realizes that she is repeating the same day over and over again. She must figure out a way to save her sisters from a demon, but a new threat is thrown her way at the end of each day.

So the theme of Déjà vu still works, but why? You would think that this would become overdone and yet I find myself enjoying this theme more and more. I think it’s because it allows us to discover something new each time.

Either the character needs to learn a lesson, a life needs to be saved, a sacrifice has to be made, or we have to start looking at something or someone differently than we used to. Maybe it’s even ourselves. I personally welcome this theme and I will always go into it with an open mind, but I think that in order for it to continue to be successful, it needs to do something slightly different each time while maintaining a steady balance of humor as well.

What are YOUR thoughts on Déjà vu in movies and TV?

Feel free to post some of your favorite movies and shows centering around Déjà vu in the comments section below! 

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

PLAY BY THE RULES…STAY ALIVE…

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READ IF YOU DARE…

Dash and Seek 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 “The 100” season 7 episode 3: “False Gods”

Happy Thursday TV fans! After watching The CW’s The 100 season 7 episode 3, I was reminded that “wanting to die and facing it are two different things.” 

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

In last night’s episode, “False Gods,” Raven makes a tough decision for the good of Sanctum, but has she crossed a line in doing so? Meanwhile, Clarke deals with her own actions and Wonkru learns the truth about Madi.

My top 5 moments from The 100 season 7 episode 3 are:

5

“Either we live together or die apart.”

I don’t know about you, but I found myself repeating Jack Shephard’s infamous line from LOST: “Live together, die alone,” but I suppose Russell Prime (Sheiheda) changed it up just enough…

The 100 7 3 1
Images courtesy of The CW

Either way, Russell is about to be burned at the stake, but things get complicated when there is a divide between Sanctum. Clarke realizes that they will now need to keep Russell alive, which means that Sheidheda’s plan is working all to well.

4

“Fighting is what we are.”

During the episode, Clarke deals with the consequences of her actions, realizing that she lost herself when she called for Russell’s life. She stands before her mother’s grave and tells her that she will do her best to make her proud, but Clarke is clearly having a tough time here.

Clarke comes to the realization that they keep ending up in the same place and that perhaps “fighting is what they are.” We know that the end is in sight here, but is there a way for Clarke to help her people finally find some kind of normalcy and peace? Let’s hope so.

The 100 7 3 2
Images courtesy of The CW

I am also loving the new friendship between Clarke and Gaia and perhaps there is a little bit more here to ship. I’m a Bellarke fan for life, but I can’t ignore some of the vibes being thrown our way.

3

“We’ll all die…”

Oh, is that all. As if Sanctum doesn’t have enough to deal with, Raven stumbles upon an unstable reactor that could destroy everyone. She is faced with a difficult task, but is up for the challenge with Memori’s help, but I’m not sure that everyone is going to make it.

The 100 7 3 3
Images courtesy of The CW

Either way, let’s keep giving Raven and Memori screen time because they deserve it!

2

“We cannot ask The Commander because there is no Commander!”

Well, that makes things complicated. Raven is looking for members of Wonkru to volunteer as tribute to help her fix the reactor and she wants people she can trust. Indra, Clarke, and Gaia clash over whether or not to involve Madi, but Gaia ultimately decides to tell everyone that there is no more Commander.

The 100 7 3 4
Images courtesy of The CW

Wonkru is outraged and Indra points out, “You just lost Wonkru.” There is now an even greater divide among the people in Sanctum, which I’m sure Sheidheda will use to his advantage.

It looks like Raven will need to turn to the prisoners for help now…

1

“You’re the Queen of doing the impossible.”

That’s a great way to describe our girl, Raven and our favorite cockroach is back in action as well. Only, the moral compass is certainly wavering back and forth here. After convincing the prisoners to help with the cause, Raven fails to mention how dangerous this task really is.

The 100 7 3 5
Images courtesy of The CW

Since Murphy and Emori have Nightblood, they will most likely be fine with some radiation exposure, but others won’t be so lucky. Things get beyond tense when Murphy and Emori work to bring down the pressure, but when everyone starts getting sick, Raven realizes that the radiation is leaking more than she realized.

She recognizes that the prisoners will die and Murphy tries to get her to see reason and even points out that perhaps she can get in there and fix what is wrong. Raven clings to the delegation role here; however, and the few prisoners lose their lives in order to save the many.

It would have been nice to let them know that they were sacrificing their lives though…

Raven has done the impossible again to save her people, but has she just crossed a line? We’ll have to wait and see, but I don’t think things are going to calm down at all on Sanctum.

May we meet again.

Stay tuned!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on The 100 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…

Dash and Seek is available here!

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My performance of the week ending 5/30/20 on TV goes to…

Marie Avgeropoulos as Octavia Blake on The CW’s The 100.

Let’s talk about one of the most brilliant and incredible character transformations on a television series of all time. The quiet girl under the floor has stepped out of her big brother’s shadow, embracing love, heartache, leadership, loss, and happiness. While a lot of the attention still centers around Clarke, Octavia has quickly become the heart and soul of The 100 and season 7, episode 2 is another great example of this.

Octavia and Bellamy The 100 CW 2
Images courtesy of The CW

Please note spoilers are ahead if you are not caught up on season 7.

It’s not easy finding your way, especially when you grew up as a secret. Octavia only really knew Bellamy as her family, but she quickly became a reliable member of the group once our favorite characters made it down to earth.

After experiencing life out in the open with brand new eyes, Octavia met the love of her life, Lincoln. Their love was beautiful and transcendent of everything else around them, but Lincoln was killed in front of her, which was one of the most heartbreaking moments of the entire series for me.

Octavia and Lincoln The 100 CW
Images courtesy of The CW

Octavia turned her grief into strength and trained with Indra to become an unstoppable warrior. She was driven by revenge and eventually shattered her moral compass when she became the leader of Wonkru…Blodreina. Remember that familiar chant?

Octavia Blake The 100 CW 1
Images courtesy of The CW

“You are Wonkru or you are the enemy of Wonkru. Choose…”

Well, it’s not much of a choice when the alternative is death, but Blodreina transformed into a ruthless leader, but there were still glimmers of humanity within her. We later discovered that Octavia took on all of the burden so that no one else had to. As much as you wanted to hate her for her actions, you couldn’t.

Bellamy has always been able to bring Octavia back, but after their huge fallout, Octavia seemed truly alone. Her friendship with Diyoza allowed her to head down a path toward redemption as she stumbled across the mysterious anomaly.

After watching season 7, episode 2, Marie Avgeropoulos had me in tears once again. Her letter to Bellamy was so heartbreaking and hopeful at the same time. Octavia has finally learned what it means to love again, bonding with Diyoza and her daughter, Hope. Even though she has a new family, she still holds Bellamy close to her heart and wants him to know that she now understands.

Octavia and Bellamy The 100 CW
Images courtesy of The CW

This was such a huge moment for Octavia as a character. Through it all, she finally is able to recognize her mistakes and redeem herself to become someone others can always count on.

What’s next for Octavia? This is the final season of the series so it will be interesting to see if Octavia’s journey toward self-discovery is almost done. I’d love to see a reunion between her and Bellamy, but I also have a feeling that she may sacrifice everything to save him and her friends, which would make her an eternal hero. I’d also love to see another flashback or memory with Lincoln because it truly was the ultimate love story of the series.

Octavia The 100 CW 3
Images courtesy of The CW

Either way, I am so beyond impressed with Marie Avgeropoulos as an actress. She channels so much strength into her character and has shown us so many sides of Octavia. Some of them have been good and some of them have been on the other side of the spectrum, but everything she pours into her character is compelling and disturbingly real.

I can’t wait to see how it all ends and I will be an Octavia Blake fan for life!

May we meet again.

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! 

Ranking the top 5 moments from “The Walking Dead” Season 10 Episode 12: “Walk With Us”

Happy Sunday TV fans! After watching AMC’s The Walking Dead season 10 episode 12, we were reminded that “things don’t always work out the way you want” and sometimes what you desire most of all can lead to your downfall.

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

In tonight’s episode, “Walk With Us,” the war is here, as we get a few unexpected casualties. Meanwhile, Negan finally gives Alpha what she wants, leading to the epic ending you have been waiting for.

My top 5 moments from The Walking Dead season 10 episode 12 are:

5

“I’ll never walk with her.”

The opening of the episode is beyond intense. There are still flames everywhere as our group defends Hilltop. Lydia refuses to walk with her mother and runs off, but ends up bumping straight into Negan. She is initially relieved to see him, but it looks like he has another agenda up his sleeve. Where does Negan’s loyalty lie? We’re about to find out…

4

“Her hand just slipped out of mine.”

In the midst of all the chaos, Yumiko actually spots an injured Magna in the crowd.

TWD AMC 6
Images courtesy of AMC

Magna was able to survive the cave-in, but says that she lost track of Connie and couldn’t find her. This doesn’t necessarily mean that Connie is dead and I am remaining positive about one of my favorite characters on the show, but I was glad to see that Magna is all right.

Magna and Yumiko take a break from the war to break up, earning some screen time during the episode.

3

“Never!”

After Mary finally gets a chance to hold baby Adam, we witness a sweet moment. It’s good to see family back with family except they are being followed by a hungry horde of walkers. Mary sacrifices everything to protect her nephew and leads the walkers away, taking them out one by one.

TWD AMC 4
Images courtesy of AMC

Only Beta is waiting for her and stabs her, waiting for her to turn so that she can walk with Alpha. Mary’s actions were so brave and I was honestly so upset to see her die after showing so much promise and potential.

After being turned, Alden shoots her with an arrow to prevent her from falling victim to such a cruel fate. Beta runs off again and even takes out one of his own followers to protect his identity.

2

“I can stay here with you.”

Judith has always been so strong and mature, but she certainly grows up a lot after this episode and my heart goes out to her. The plans goes slightly off when Ezekiel is separated from the kids, but Earl gets them to the safe house.

Judith discovers that Earl has been bitten and offers to stay with him so that he does not have to be alone. Earl tells her that he is not alone and tells her not to come out again so that he can stop himself as a threat.

It’s not that easy to stab your own brain as we find out and poor Judith is left to take out undead Earl. Daryl and the others find the kids and they are all safe, but this has clearly taken a toll on Judith and I’m pretty sure that she has gone through more things than any other kid on the planet…ever.

TWD AMC 5
Images courtesy of AMC

Even though this was heartbreaking to watch, I finally felt like Judith got a true moment to shine, channeling Carl quite a bit here.

1

“Took you long enough.”

Negan informs Alpha that he has found the thing she is looking for, leading her off to where he has Lydia held captive. After an interesting Lion King debate, Negan actually reveals quite a bit about his own feelings after his wife died.

Alpha explains that it is Lydia’s destiny to die because she loves her. Lydia has always been Alpha’s weakness and as Lydia breaks free, we discover that she is in a different shack.

Alpha finds her own shack empty and Negan swiftly slashes her throat. He rolls her undead animated head toward Carol, revealing that these two make quite the team.

This was probably one of the best episodes I have seen on the series and I was very satisfied with this outcome. Welcome back to the team, Negan!

So, now that Alpha is dead, what does this mean for the fate of The Whisperers? Is the threat really over or will they take revenge?

Stay tuned! Next week we finally catch up with Michonne!

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

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

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