Ranking the top 5 moments from “American Horror Story: 1984” season 9 episode 9 Season Finale: “Final Girl”

Happy Thursday TV fans!  After watching the FX network’s American Horror Story:  1984 season 9 episode 9 season finale, I learned that the 80’s will never truly die, but our killers certainly didn’t make it easy for our potential Final Girls.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet.  

In last night’s episode, “Final Girl,” we flash forward to 2019, as a familiar AHS face seeks out Camp Redwood, looking for answers.  Meanwhile, the Final Girl is revealed, but not before we get some unexpected twists and turns along the way.  My top 5 moments from the American Horror Story:  1984 season 9 episode 9 Season Finale are:

5

“You’re in danger…”

We certainly got a lot of time jumps during this season and it’s now 2019, as AHS alum, Finn Wittrock, shows up at Camp Redwood to find out the truth.  He comes into contact with Montana and Trevor and they learn that he is Mr. Jingles’s son, Bobby.

Small world!  Bobby has returned to find his father, but they tell him that he is dead and that he is in great danger now.

Bobby is quickly introduced to the supernatural threats on the campgrounds, but will he be able to make it out alive?  Let’s find out!

4

“You can’t sing Rebel Yell and not be a rebel.”

Fair point, Montana!  During the episode, we discover that Margaret brutally stabbed Trevor after finding out that he was trying to keep people from coming to her musical massacre fest.  Trevor tries to get over the campground lines so that he can be with Montana, but he can’t make it.  Luckily, Brooke shows up to help him, as Montana now realizes that she also has the chance for redemption.

Dylan McDermott’s character is killed pretty easily, but Montana is ready to take down the Night Stalker herself.

Naturally, she tells him that Billy Idol is waiting for him to lure him away, which is a great tactic!  The Night Stalker is surrounded by all the ghosts and they take out their revenge on him, trapping his spirit there for eternity.

Only they need to keep constant watch over him or he could summon Satan to be reborn, so this is certainly a lot of work.

While I was slightly disappointed with how easy it was to take down the Night Stalker, I was happy with Montana’s quest toward redemption here.

3

“Take her…”

The Night Stalker was really just the appetizer for the main course; however, as the ghosts now turn their attention on Margaret.

Margaret is not really intimidated, but they certainly pull out all the stops to brutally murder her.  They cut off her limbs one by one and ensure that the remains are spilled out past the campgrounds, but one should never truly discount Margaret…

Either way, this scene had my stomach turning, but it’s not like she didn’t have this coming.

2

“You were the last one.  The only one.”

Right before Margaret is taken, Brooke and Donna attack her, but Brooke is stabbed in the process.  When Bobby goes to the asylum to get some answers about his father, he meets Donna years later and realizes that she is the Final Girl.

Only nothing is that simple on AHS, as we find out that Ray saved Brooke and she has been secretly sending Bobby money all these years to try and give him a chance at a normal life.

It looks like Brooke and Donna are both the Final Girls after all!

Both of them killed it and were the highlight of the season for me, so I was really happy that they both were able to make it out of there OK.  Looks like they’re bonded for life now!

1

“The 80’s will never die.”

Even after hearing everything, Bobby still returns to Camp Redwood and of course the Night Stalker breaks free and tries to kill him.  The ghosts all band together to save him and Mr. Jingles shows up with perfect timing to stop Margaret, who has been hiding out all this time to get her revenge, revealing that she died right before her head was thrown across the line.

Bobby is stabbed and it doesn’t look too good for him, but his grandmother shows up to stop Margaret, giving Bobby his chance at a real happy ending.

Montana reminds him to keep their ghost stories alive so that the 80’s never die and we get somewhat of a happily ever after here.

So overall, I absolutely LOVED the first half of season 9.  The throwback to the 80’s and the music was out of this world.  The show did an excellent job of channeling that slasher vibe while also throwing in some campy horror humor to really lighten the mood and I thought that this was so entertaining.

However, once we got to the second half of the season, it felt like random plots were thrown our way and everything got a little bit chaotic.  It almost seemed like they didn’t really know where to go at a certain point and I almost wish they would have had fewer episodes with more 80’s slasher fun because the season was at its highest point during those moments.

Either way, I appreciated the music and had a lot of fun watching.  Although I really wanted to see Billy Idol!  There were some fantastic guest stars and some really great performances, but we’ll have to see what premise we get in season 10.  Stay tuned AHS fans!

American Horror Story:  1984 episode 9 Music Soundtrack Highlights:

A Flock Of Seagulls – I Ran (So Far Away) (Video)

Autograph – Turn up the Radio (Official Video)

Mike + The Mechanics – The Living Years (Official Video)

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own theories and thoughts on American Horror Story:  1984 below in the comments section.  Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

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

The Dreaming of Wonderland Book Series is available here!

Free Instant Preview of The Search for Alice 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 “American Horror Story: 1984” season 9 episode 8: “Final Girls”

Happy Thursday TV fans!  After watching the FX network’s American Horror Story:  1984 season 9 episode 8, I learned that many horror movies have a Final Girl, but that doesn’t mean we can’t have more than one!  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet.  

In last night’s episode, “Rest in Pieces,” Brooke and Donna continue to work together to carry out their story of revenge.  Meanwhile, the serial killers team up, determined to create a massacre that will be remembered for all time.  My top 5 moments from the American Horror Story:  1984 season 9 episode 8 are:

5

“We’re trying to listen to Creedence!”

Dylan McDermott’s character showed up at exactly the right time.  He certainly likes the feisty ones and he is stealing the show at this point with his overenthusiastic quest to get his numbers up so he can be a Serial Killer legend.  But can he truly keep up with Margaret and the Night Stalker?  Maybe not, but I’m entertained for sure!

4

“Kajagoogoo is dead!”

After discovering the dead bodies on the bus, Margaret is outraged, screaming out that “Kajagoogoo is dead!”  Her assistant tries to make things right, but Margaret wants him to clean up this nightmare, refusing to let a one hit wonder get in the way of her show.

Only Kajagoogoo refuses to let his single fade away along with him, as he comes back to life to continue to sing “Too Shy,” which was absolutely hilarious.

3

“I’m with Satan.”

The Night Stalker is definitely not too shy about showing off where his loyalty lies, but Benjamin/Mr. Jingles is ready to stop him once and for all.  The Night Stalker is shocked and somewhat impressed to discover that Benjamin killed himself to stop him, but I’m still waiting for this final showdown between them.

Perhaps Benjamin should try and kill Billy Idol to distract the Night Stalker since he wants to protect him no matter what.

Our new trio of serial killers is formed and Margaret is determined to kill every single musician that performs (except Billy) to become a serial killer legend, but we’ll  have to see who has the true moment in the spotlight in the finale.

2

“You’re 80’s forever!”

Trevor continues to fall in love with ghost Montana, who is starting to realize that perhaps she doesn’t deserve to be happy.  After hearing about what Richard Ramirez has become, she thinks she is a monster and starts to blame herself for his actions.

Will Montana try and redeem herself?

We’ll have to wait and see, but she does push Trevor away, not wanting him to throw his life away to be with her in the afterlife.  I guess that’s a start…

1

“We’re the best story she’s ever had.”

Brooke and Donna continue to make an unbelievable tag team, but their plan gets put on hold when a nosy book writer shows up, claiming she knows exactly who they are.  Brooke promises her the story of her life in exchange for their freedom, but poor Stacy gets more than she bargained for when she is actually killed by our new trio of serial killers.

Brooke tells Donna that perhaps they are both Final Girls and I agree!  I’m absolutely rooting for them both and I just want to see their story of revenge take on a life of its own.  Donna is still reminding Brooke about doing the right thing so we will have to see how this plays out, but I’m all for changing up the rules to allow two Final Girls to come out victorious. 

How will it all end?  Stay tuned for the season finale next week!

American Horror Story:  1984 episode 8 Music Soundtrack Highlights:

Fading Fast- The Go-Go’s -Music & Lyrics (Beauty and the Beat 1981)

Creedence Clearwater Revival – Fortunate Son

Foreigner – ‘I Want To Know What Love Is’ [Official Music Video]

Survivor – Eye Of The Tiger

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own theories and thoughts on American Horror Story:  1984 below in the comments section.  Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

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

The Dreaming of Wonderland Book Series is available here!

Free Instant Preview of The Search for Alice 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!

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Ranking the top 5 moments from “American Horror Story: 1984” season 9 episode 7: “The Lady in White”

Happy Halloween TV fans!  After watching the FX network’s American Horror Story:  1984 season 9 episode 7, I learned that one should be careful about signing any kind of contract…especially if it’s with the devil.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet.  

In last night’s episode, “The Lady in White,” we say hello to some familiar AHS alum faces and they are ready to stir up some trouble.  Meanwhile, we flash back to the 1940’s and learn more about Benjamin’s past and Brooke shows us her Final Girl potential while rocking it at a roller rink.  My top 5 moments from American Horror Story:  1984 season 9 episode 7 are:

5

“She stole my life.”

Brooke and Donna make quite the tag team during this episode.  Donna reveals that she swapped out the lethal injection, explaining why Brooke is really alive right now.  Donna claims she is trying to make things right, knowing all too well what’s waiting on the other side if she continues down the wrong path.

Now that Brooke is finally free, will she be able to pull out all the stops as our Final Girl?  Let’s hope so!

4

“What about your stranger policy?”

Hey Dylan McDermott!  It’s always great to see him on AHS, although his character certainly seems shady.  After meeting Brooke and Donna at the roller rink, he claims he needs a ride to go see his girlfriend, but things get a little suspicious on the ride there, suggesting that perhaps they just picked up a serial killer stranger.  What are the odds?

3

“They couldn’t erase the evil.”

Dylan McDermott isn’t the only familiar face on this week’s episode of AHS 1984, as Lily Rabe also shows up, playing Benjamin’s mother.  We flash back to 1948 when Camp Redwood was known as Camp Golden Star, discovering that Benjamin’s mother worked there and he and his brother were campers.  After his mother told him to keep an eye on his brother, Benjamin lost sight of him for a moment and his brother ended up being brutally killed by the engine of a boat.

Benjamin’s mother has a nervous breakdown and decides to take her rage out on everyone, revealing the first real massacre here.  After Benjamin ended her life, her blood seeped into the campgrounds, which would explain why there is a curse here.  It’s clear that she may be the cause of all of this and it also explains why she hates camp counselors, since she blames them partially for her son’s death, giving us some Friday the 13th nostalgia.

Benjamin’s mother also blames him, but can he make things right?  Well, I’m not sure he will get the chance since he is killed by…himself?  I’m not really too sure about this part.  Was this supposed to be a projection of his brother or just the killer version of his own ghost?  Either way, this version of Benjamin may be a worthy match for the Night Stalker, Ramirez.

2

“Your hitchhiking days are over.”

After the stranger in the car takes out a cop, he reveals that he is a serial killer and he’s actually trying to catch up to the Night Stalker by adding to his kill list.  Brooke is presented with a choice:  she can either save herself and drag Donna to her death or be killed.

Brooke says she is choosing herself, but ends up throwing the car in the reverse.  Brooke and Donna work together and leave the stranger on the side of the road, but cut off some fingers to prevent him from hitching a ride.

Brooke is now the bad-ass girl I have been waiting for and I can’t wait to see this tag team see it through until the end!

1

“When you sign a contract with the devil, you better understand the fine print.”

The Night Stalker shows up and actually kills Kajagoogoo, claiming he already has his autograph after he signed a contract with the devil.  The rest of the tour bus is found dead as well, but what about Billy?!

The Night Stalker has arrived and he’s ready to leave his mark, but I’m very excited to see the final showdown.

Overall, the episode was all right.  I thought that the time jumps were slightly unnecessary, but I loved seeing some familiar faces on the show and right now, Brooke’s journey to become the Final Girl is the only thing keeping me invested.  I’m hoping she can get everything back on track for us because I don’t want to lose the 80’s slasher vibe that hooked me on to the new season in the first place.  Stay tuned!

American Horror Story:  1984 episode 7 Music Soundtrack Highlights:

Def Leppard – Armageddon It 

Deniece Williams – Let’s Hear It for the Boy (Official Video)

Alice Cooper – Poison (Official Video)

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own theories and thoughts on American Horror Story:  1984 below in the comments section.  Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

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

The Dreaming of Wonderland Book Series is available here!

Free Instant Preview of The Search for Alice 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 “American Horror Story: 1984” season 9 episode 5: “Is That My Head in There?”

Happy Thursday TV fans!  After watching the FX network’s American Horror Story:  1984 season 9 episode 5, I learned that “a darkness resides in everyone,” but that doesn’t mean that you have to tap into it.  Should you willingly accept it or can you still make things right even from the other side?  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet.

In last night’s episode, “Red Dawn,” we dive more into Rita/Donna’s past, as she comes face-to-face with something she cannot explain.  Meanwhile, Brooke makes an impulsive decision and Margaret tries to eliminate everyone one-by-one.  My top 5 moments from the American Horror Story:  1984 season 9 episode 5 are:

5

“A hunger I can’t satisfy…”

In this episode, we dive more into Rita/Donna’s past and flash back to 1980.  Donna was following her father because she thought he was cheating on her mother, but discovered something even more disturbing, learning that he was a serial killer.  Donna’s father tried to explain that he had always been like this, but Donna tried to reach out to him right before he stabbed himself.

This explains Donna’s obsession with studying serial killers, but she is not sure she can rationalize what is happening in front of her now when the Night Stalker comes back to life.  The Night Stalker claims that he is “evil” and Donna even sees her dead father talking to her, but is the Night Stalker a projection of Satan or something else?

4

“It’s your fault my future is in radio!”

Xavier continued to make me laugh out loud during this episode, beyond furious that his face is ruined.  However, that doesn’t stop him from jumping right back into character to take down Mr. Jingles with his bow and arrow.

Too bad he’s stopping the wrong killer, but you gotta love his enthusiasm.  Unfortunately, Margaret eliminates Xavier, but I have a feeling he will continue to bring on the campy horror laughs even in the afterlife.

3

“I don’t want to die when I don’t even feel like I’ve lived yet.”

Ray randomly shows up and has a heart-to-heart talk with Brooke…only we know that Ray is actually dead.  To make things even more weird, Brooke loses her virginity to a ghost and they later discover Ray’s head in the fridge.

“Is that my head in there?”  It’s clear that Brooke is beyond traumatized from this encounter, but Ray seems to be just as confused.  I’d like to say that perhaps Brooke’s day might be improving now, but things are only going to get worse.  Sorry Brooke!

2

“I’m gonna rip you apart.”

Margaret is not holding anything back now, as she starts to split the group up one-by one, determined to add more ears to her collection.  Mr. Jingles is determined to stop Margaret once and for all, but of course Xavier gets in the way.  After Montana and Brooke’s showdown, everyone is pretty much dead except for Brooke and Margaret, as a school bus of campers shows up with perfect timing.

Margaret puts her acting skills to the test and stabs herself in the leg, claiming that Brooke killed everyone.  Brooke is taken away in handcuffs, but I hope this isn’t the end for either of them.

1

“We can be gods here!”

Montana is initially pissed off to be dead, but she embraces it pretty quickly, realizing that she can do whatever she wants and kill whoever she wants.  She claims that they can be gods here and it looks like these ghosts are looking for some revenge, but we know that they cannot leave the campground. Only we see the Night Stalker and Mr. Jingles take off in a car headed to L.A. after Mr. Jingles apparently accepts Satan as the Night Stalker did.

Is this the reason why they can leave?  I’m thinking so, but now I’m wondering what direction we are headed in for the remaining episodes.  This felt like the end of something for me and yet we know that these spirits have some unfinished business, so I guess there is more to see.  Stay tuned for the 100th episode of AHS next week!

American Horror Story:  1984 episode 5 Music Soundtrack Highlight:

Amii Stewart – Knock On Wood – Official Video

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own theories and thoughts on American Horror Story:  1984 below in the comments section.  Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

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Ranking the top 5 moments from “American Horror Story: 1984” season 9 episode 4: “It Feels So Good”

Happy Thursday TV fans!  After watching the FX network’s American Horror Story:  1984 season 9 episode 4 last night, I realized that “we’ve always got a say in what happens next,” but what if you really can’t explain what is going on?  What if there really is no rational explanation for it?  Are we still in control or are we helpless?  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet.

In last night’s episode, “True Killers,” we learn more about Montana’s connected past with the Night Stalker, along with their shared appreciation for Billy Idol.  Meanwhile, the two killers on the loose finally cross paths, but who will end up victorious?  My top 5 moments from the American Horror Story:  1984 season 9 episode 4 are:

5

“This is aerobics.  It’s serious!”

This show is really making me laugh out loud and I love it!  In the beginning of the episode, we get an important glimpse into Montana’s past and discover that she first met the Night Stalker when he stumbled into her aerobics class.

The Night Stalker seems to hit it off with Montana right away, but reacts when one of her students decides to go off on her for her music selection.  After the Night Stalker presents Montana with a bloody surprise, she seems more turned on than scared, revealing that perhaps she has had a darkness within her all along.

4

“Promise me she’ll suffer.”

We don’t have to wait too long to understand Montana’s motive for wanting Brooke dead, as we learn that her brother was the best man at Brooke’s wedding.  Montana blames Brooke for what happened and is looking for revenge, but she clearly wants to make Brooke’s pain last.  The Night Stalker seems to be on board with killing for his girl, but does he have an agenda of his own as well?

3

“You always hated the crust.”

While Mr. Jingles is off on his killing spree, Xavier attempts to get Birdy to safety, but when Mr. Jingles shows up, it appears they used to be friends and he remembers her from the camp prior to the massacre.  We learn that Mr. Jingles enjoys a PB&J sandwich, but once he spots Xavier, it’s clear that he also has a hunger for something else.

Poor Xavier almost gets cooked alive, but Birdy is able to save him in time.  Birdy asks Xavier to put her out of her misery and he reluctantly agrees, but once he sees the burns on his face, he realizes that his dream of being on the cover of TV Guide may be over…

2

“You shouldn’t have crashed this party.”

Brooke manages to escape, but ends up caught in a net, as Rita reveals her plan to her.  Brooke says, “F*ck your research,” but she really is in quite the jam now.  Montana finds her and realizes that she can finally have the Night Stalker kill her once and for all, but of course Mr. Jingles shows up with perfect timing and we get an impressive showdown between both killers, which ends with the Night Stalker getting a tree branch stabbed through his throat.

Brooke and Montana are able to get away and this certainly ruins Montana’s plan, but Rita witnesses something horrifying when she sees the Night Stalker’s body levitating in mid-air.  His eyes turn black and he is brought back to life, reminding us of the supernatural presence still lurking at Camp Redwood.

It’s one thing to have a harmless camp counselor marching around dead, but it’s quite another to have an undead serial killer on the grounds.  We’ll have to see how this plays out, but it is keeping things interesting for sure.

1

“You never had a chance…”

We certainly get a lot of plot twists thrown our way in episode 4, as we also finally learn what’s up with Margaret.  I suspected something was off with her from the start and so did many of you, but she finally steps into the light to face Mr. Jingles.  We get to see another flashback for Margaret and discover that Mr. Jingles had somewhat of a crush on her and wanted to protect her.

Margaret used this to her advantage and manipulated him, taking her own revenge out on her bullies at camp while framing her poor “Benji Bear.”  After being locked away in the asylum, Mr. Jingles started to truly believe that he was the killer, but Margaret reminds him now that she set the whole thing up.  She even cut off her own ear to sell it, but it looks like Margaret is ready to embrace her true self again.

After shooting Mr. Jingles and eliminating Trevor, Mr. Jingles manages to get away, but the real killer has now emerged.  We know that the campers will be arriving shortly, so what is Margaret’s end game here?  Is she looking to re-create another massacre?  How will the supernatural elements come into play?  Stay tuned!

American Horror Story:  1984 episode 4 Music Soundtrack Highlight:

Billy Idol – Rebel Yell (Official Music Video)

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own theories and thoughts on American Horror Story:  1984 below in the comments section.  Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

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

The Dreaming of Wonderland Book Series is available here!

Dreaming of Wonderland Series Final Chapter Blog

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

**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 “American Horror Story: 1984” season 9 episode 3: “Happy Jingles Day!”

Happy Thursday TV fans!  After watching the FX network’s American Horror Story:  1984 season 9 episode 3, I started to wonder if there truly is method behind madness or if some people are just evil?  Well, it looks like we are about to test this theory out and then some.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet.  

In last night’s episode, “Slashdance,” we get a glimpse into Rita and Ray’s past, discovering that everyone has something to hide at Camp Redwood.  Meanwhile, there are still two killers on the loose while impostors run around dressed up as Mr. Jingles to celebrate the anniversary of the massacre.  My top 5 moments from the American Horror Story:  1984 season 9 episode 3 are:

5

“You totally missed it!”

Everyone gets quite a scare when multiple Jingles start appearing, as we quickly learn that it is Jingles Day.  Several kids decide to prank people to celebrate the day of the massacre because apparently it’s tradition, but they are in for a big surprise when the real Mr. Jingles shows up to break up the party.

I guess he isn’t too impressed by the day in his honor, as he proceeds to brutally kill these impostors, but he hesitates when he comes across one with an inhaler, which suggests that perhaps Mr. Jingles doesn’t want to kill everyone…

4

“Oh honey, I wish you could see your face right now…”

Brooke and Rita make it to the car, but Brooke starts to panic when her friends take too long to catch up.  She thinks that she should go for help, but Rita has other plans when she injects Brooke with a tranquilizer, providing us with an interesting twist for sure, as we learn that Rita has been less than honest with the rest of the group.

But why does everyone seem to be so focused on Brooke?  We already got a glimpse into her past and I’m sure some of Joey’s family members might want to seek out revenge, but is there something else from her past that has not surfaced yet?

3

“Maybe it isn’t all my fault.”

So, we learn that Rita is not Rita at all and her real name is Donna Chambers.  She is a psychologist who studies serial killers and she paid Mr. Jingles a visit in the asylum a week before he escaped.  Donna gets Mr. Jingles to open up and chat, as she explains that she thinks that something in his life caused him to be this way.

Donna certainly seems to blame pornography and the military quite a bit, but she wants to see Mr. Jingles in his natural habitat, as we discover that she was the one to help plan his escape.  Donna talks about redemption, but I’m not sure if Mr. Jingles is really making that much progress during his killing spree…although I guess sparing one life is something?

Donna is also far from innocent, as she meets the real Nurse Rita on the way to Camp Redwood and decides to take on her identity.  While it initially seemed like Donna killed poor Rita, Rita wakes up later on when Xavier and Montana are hiding from Mr. Jingles and begins screaming even after they tell her to be quiet.  Rita’s day doesn’t get any easier, as Mr. Jingles decides to shut her up permanently…by shoving an oar in her mouth.

2

“What the hell are you doing down there?”

“I’m dying!”  The campy horror humor continues in this episode and several moments made me laugh out loud.  Ray doesn’t learn from his past mistakes, as he repeatedly leaves his friends to die to save himself…but what goes around comes around.  Ray yells out, “See ya,” when riding off on the motorcycle…right before Mr. Jingles decides to decapitate him.  So long, Ray!

1

“Why the hell haven’t you killed her yet?”

Fake Rita was not the only twist during the episode, as Montana comes face-to-face with the Night Stalker at the end of the episode.  While it initially seemed like Montana was in some real trouble here, the two proceed to make out and Montana asks him why he hasn’t killed her yet.

So now of course, I am extremely interested in Montana’s past and motive and it looks like we will get to see a glimpse of it in next week’s episode.  The twists and turns keep coming our way and I have to say that I am absolutely loving the new season!

American Horror Story:  1984 episode 3 Music Soundtrack Highlights:

Chicago – If You Leave Me Now “HQ/HD”

Daryl Hall & John Oates – Maneater

Kajagoogoo – Too Shy

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own theories and thoughts on American Horror Story:  1984 below in the comments section.  Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

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

The Dreaming of Wonderland Book Series is available here!

Dreaming of Wonderland Series Blog

Free Instant Preview of The Search for Alice 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 “American Horror Story: 1984” season 9 episode 1 Season Premiere: “Welcome to Camp Redwood”

Happy Thursday TV fans!  After watching the FX network’s American Horror Story:  1984 season 9 episode 1 last night, I remembered that perhaps we should listen to creepy gas attendants who tell us that there’s nowhere to run or hide.  Or maybe we should go answer a payphone in the middle of the woods when a killer is on the loose.  Let’s make some good choices and go back in time to enjoy some 80’s slasher fun with a killer soundtrack!  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet.  

In last night’s episode, “Camp Redwood,” Brooke, Montana, Xavier, Chet, and Ray all meet at Perfect 10 Aerobics and decide to take summer jobs as camp counselors at Camp Redwood.  We hear the campfire chilling story of the infamous killer, Mr.  Jingles and it seems like anyone with a half a brain would stay clear of this camp, but where would be the fun in that?  My top 5 moments from the American Horror Story:  1984 season 9 episode 1 season premiere are:

5

“I heard serial killers become more active in the summer months when it’s hot.”

Meet Brooke, played by the brilliant and amazing Emma Roberts, who seems to hit it off right away with Montana, played by Billie Lourd, at an aerobics class.  Brooke appears to be somewhat of a shy loner and clearly has a past since we witness her looking at an engagement ring in her jewelry box, but I’m already invested in her character and Emma Roberts can do no wrong for me.

4

“You’re a bad-ass!”

So maybe Brooke should have taken her own advice about leaving windows open in her apartment.  After initially turning down Xavier’s offer to go to Camp Redwood with them, an intruder breaks into her apartment and takes her jewelry.  The stranger claims to be the Night Stalker and seems to heavily worship Satan.  Connection to Hotel and Apocalypse? 

I’m not sure if this attack was random or not, but Brooke makes excellent use of my favorite weapon of choice…a frying pan, which definitely makes her a bad-ass in my book!  And so it’s off to Camp Redwood, since Brooke clearly doesn’t want to stay by herself for the summer.

3

“I have been fighting the lord’s fight against filth around the world for years.”

After our group hits a stranger in front of Camp Redwood with their car, they meet the head of Camp Redwood, Margaret, played by the hilarious and enchanting Leslie Grossman.  Seriously, I love this fierce trio of ladies and I’m hoping they can bring the fire again this season.

Margaret seems to be a big fan of following rules and we know what happens when you don’t follow the rules in a slasher film.  Margaret reminds them that girls wear red and boys wear blue and that they shouldn’t even try to make purple, which was another fun connection to Apocalypse.  Margaret has a vision of making Camp Redwood into a safe and pure place for children, but I’m not sure one can ever really lose the reputation of being the site of the “worst summer camp massacre of all time.”

2

“He liked to kill and he was good at it.”

The opening of the episode flashes back to 1970 and we witness serial killer, Benjamin Richter (aka Mr. Jingles) brutally attacking and killing some camp counselors who were having some late night extracurricular activities together.  In 1984, the group gathers around a campfire and Rita, played by Angelica Ross, fills them in on the history and questions why they are all really there.

Mr. Jingles apparently has a thing for collecting ears, which is beyond disturbing and we discover that Margaret is the only survivor from his massacre, showing off her missing ear. We also learn that Mr. Jingles has escaped the asylum he was in during present day (1984), grabbing a new set of keys, as he heads off to Camp Redwood.

Is he looking to eliminate Margaret once and for all or is he just looking to kill as he goes?  I’m not sure just yet, but there has to be a lot more to this if we are revealing the identity of the killer in episode 1.  Perhaps Margaret is in on it now?  It’s an early theory of mine, but we shall see.

1

“It was him!  I am not imagining all of this!”

After discovering the stranger from the road hung up on the back of a door, Brooke freaks out and takes off.  She is able to escape, but her friends think she is imagining things, especially when the body has mysteriously vanished and the rain coat killer seems to just be a rain coat.  Brooke is convinced that what she saw is real and decides to throw all caution out the window by answering a ringing payphone outside. 

I’m not really sure this is the best decision, but it does give us a chance to see that the Night Stalker is also lurking in the shadows.  Are there two killers on the loose or is this all connected?  I’m not sure, but it looks like Brooke is our potential final girl and I can’t wait to see what happens next!

Overall, I thought the season 9 premiere was a lot of fun.  It provided us with a lot of nostalgia and cleverly reminded us about the slasher movie trope, while keeping us invested in the main plot.  It looks like I am planning on staying at Camp Redwood after all.  How about you?

**Fun fact:  Roy from “Roy’s Gas n Grab” warns our group of characters and tells them that they’re all going to die, which is a fun throwback to Crazy Ralph in Friday the 13th telling the counselors they are all doomed.

American Horror Story:  1984 episode 1 Music Soundtrack Highlights:

Bananarama – Cruel Summer

Rockwell – Somebody’s Watching Me 1984

Daryl Hall & John Oates – Private Eyes 

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own theories and thoughts on American Horror Story:  1984 below in the comments section.  Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

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

The Dreaming of Wonderland Book Series is available here!

Dreaming of Wonderland Series Blog

Free Instant Preview of The Search for Alice 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 9 episode 16: “The Storm”

Happy Monday TV fans!  After watching AMC’s The Walking Dead season 9 episode 16, Ezekiel reminded us that “things fall apart.”  However, “it’s knowing when to keep fighting and knowing when it’s over.”  But is it ever really over?  The threats continue to pour in and our characters are tested again and again, but somehow they continue to survive even when it feels like the entire world is against them.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In last night’s episode, “The Storm,” winter is the real enemy, but the walkers are not really up for a snow ball fight either.  Meanwhile, Lydia gets up close and personal with a walker, Dog goes missing, Carol tries to cope with her loss, and Negan is finally let out of the cage.  My top 5 moments from The Walking Dead season 9 episode 16 season finale are:

5

“You don’t have to protect me.”

In the beginning of the episode, the characters start to flee or prepare for the brutal winter storm that is headed their way.  We get to listen in on some chatter on the way and find out that apparently we need to send a raven in order to get a response from Maggie, but I appreciate that they are trying to keep that story-line open.  Lydia is not really a welcomed guest, but Daryl refuses to let anyone talk to her with disrespect.  Lydia feels extremely guilty and tells Daryl that he doesn’t have to protect her, but Daryl reminds her that “it’s their problem, not yours.”  I love that Daryl is looking after Lydia here because he obviously wants to do something nice for Henry, but I think Daryl also sees a lot of himself in Lydia as well.  Daryl believes that she is a good kid and is willing to help her, but Carol is having a tough time, as she explains, “Every time I look at her, all I see is him.”

4

“It’s like Christmas to me.”

Back in Alexandria, the characters realize that they need to find a suitable place to get warm, but Gabriel recognizes that they have to let Negan out or he will freeze to death.  Finally!  Negan does not disappoint, as he hilariously comments on the “hot little quadrangle” we have to entertain us, which doesn’t really amuse Rosita and her suitors.  Negan takes it one step further and tells Gabriel, “Your girl’s doc is also your girl’s baby daddy,” but refuses to have his comments be called predictable.  He later says, “Father…not the Father” to keep the laughs coming for us, which reminded me why I love Negan’s character so much.  He may not have too many fans in Alexandria, but he absolutely kept me entertained.

3

“You’re not weak.”

Lydia’s guilt is overwhelming her and she ends up getting up close and personal with a walker stuck in the snow.  Lydia closes her eyes and starts bringing her arm toward its mouth, but Carol interrupts this before anything can happen.  Later on, Lydia tells Carol that her son is dead because of her.  In a heartbreaking moment, she says, “Henry said I was a good person, but he was wrong.”  She asks Carol to kill her, hoping to fix everything.  Carol’s grief has been consuming her and it was beyond heartbreaking to watch her go through Henry’s box of things.  However, Carol knows that Henry truly cared about Lydia and is still a good person.  Carol doesn’t grant Lydia her request and simply tells her, “You’re not weak,” which I thought was a really important moment between these two.  Carol and Lydia may never really form a close bond, but they both have a shared love for Henry, which is a link that will never be severed.

2

“I feel like I’m losing myself again.”

Carol continues to lean on Daryl’s shoulder, but Ezekiel is not exactly pleased.  He later approaches Daryl and asks him not to continue on to Hilltop with them once they are out of the storm.  Ezekiel explains that he is not trying to be the bad guy, but that he wants to give Carol and him a fresh start after everything they have been through.  Daryl doesn’t give him an answer, but he does later ask Carol what she wants him to do.  The bond and friendship between Daryl and Carol is so strong, but Daryl is willing to walk away if that’s what Carol needs.  Daryl and Carol have been through a lot together so it’s understandable why Carol is leaning on him so much, but it doesn’t make it any easier for Ezekiel.  At the end of the episode, Carol decides to go to Alexandria and gives Ezekiel back his ring.  Ezekiel tells Carol that he’ll never stop loving her and Carol says, “I’ll never regret the fairy-tale,” which broke my heart.  Carol has been through unimaginable horrors and I just want her to have something good, but I think it will take a very long time before she is able to open up her heart again.  Carol needs to heal, but she has to do this on her own so that she doesn’t lose herself again.

1

“Thank you for saving her.”

We get some action during the episode, as the walkers begin popping out of the snow while Daryl and the others cross into Alpha’s territory to get to safety.  Daryl even cleverly uses an icicle as an interesting choice of weapon.  Meanwhile, Judith also gets herself into trouble when she runs after Dog in the middle of the storm.  Negan rushes after her and tells her, “You’re just trying to get a little extra Negan time.”  I mean, we’ll take all the Negan screen time we can get.  Negan saves Judith and Dog, but has injured his leg severely.  Luckily, they make it out OK and Michonne later approaches Negan to thank him for saving his daughter.  This is a very big moment, revealing that perhaps Negan can make a difference after all, even though Michonne has had a hard time accepting this.  Does this mean that Negan will be out in the open from now on?  I really hope so because I think that he can truly prove his worth in Alexandria.  Negan also leaves us with a very important observation.  Michonne risked a lot by cutting into Alpha’s territory, but will there be consequences?  Negan explains that “no one ever thinks that they’re the evil one” and he’s spot on.  We cut to Alpha briefly who says, “I’ll need to be stronger for what comes next,” as Beta begins whipping her arm.  No wonder Lydia has so many issues.

So what exactly is coming next?  It certainly gives us some setup for season 10, but we’ll have to wait to find out.  We are also left with a mysterious voice coming over the radio at the very end.  So who is on the other end?  Is it an old friend or a new potential ally?  It sounded like a female.  Is it possible that this is a crossover from Fear the Walking Dead? Maggie? Someone connected to Rick?  I’m not sure, but it definitely keeps my interest invested, as I am looking forward to finding out more.  Overall, the episode provided us with a nice balance of setup and action.  Nothing was going to compare to the shock of episode 15, but I still thought that the season finale had a lot of important moments and it really gave us a chance to connect with some of our favorite characters even more.  Stay tuned for season 10 and don’t forget that Fear the Walking Dead begins June 2nd!

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

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

The Search for Alice is available here!

The Search for Alice Feb 2019

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

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

[twitter-follow screen_name=’TV_Fanatic_Girl’]

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

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 9 episode 15: “The Calm Before”

Happy Monday TV fans!  After watching AMC’s The Walking Dead season 9 episode 15, I remembered that if you witness a happily ever after moment on TWD, it’s probably too good to be true and it means that something is coming.  Something shocking, horrifying, and heartbreaking.  While you may think you’re ready, it’s amazing how much a certain reveal can impact you.  However, it’s important to keep going and to remember the good.  There is always still a glimmer of hope remaining and sometimes it appears in the most unexpected places.  Please note MAJOR SPOILERS are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In last night’s episode, “The Calm Before,” the fair is underway, as everyone tries to participate in the fun.  Meanwhile, Daryl takes a group out and is surrounded by threats and Alpha is ready to make a deal, but not before proving just how ruthless she can be.  My top 5 moments from The Walking Dead season 9 episode 15 are:

5

“Let the fair of new beginning begin!”

In the beginning of the episode, Ezekiel addresses the fair and tells everyone, “We’ve always been bound to each other…we always will be.”  Ezekiel mentions sacrifice and specifically brings up Rick, Carl, and Jesus, while also having a replica of his tiger next to him, which was truly touching to see.  Jerry’s title for the fair is shot down and we are welcomed into the fair of the new beginning.  It looks like everyone is ready to join in on the fun and come together to celebrate, but we know that the Whisperers are still lurking around, waiting to make their next move.  I’m not sure that anyone was truly ready for what was about to come next, however.

4

“I have just the thing.”

Carol is ready to go off after Henry, but with perfect timing, Daryl and the others return to The Kingdom.  Carol tells Henry that he can never run away from her again and we also get to see Michonne reunited with her old friends.  Everyone is very receptive to Michonne even though she has been gone for quite some time.  Carol asks Judith if she remembers her and Judith explains that she has been drawing pictures of them since she was little.  Tara breaks up the party; however, when she spots Lydia, recognizing the danger here.  After some discussion, a pact is made between all four communities, as Ezekiel is more than eager to whip out the treaty he has been holding on to for all this time.  Although, I kind of liked Tara’s idea to “spit and shake” on it or to have a blood oath.  All of the communities have now come together, as Rick’s vision for the future is not completely lost, but can the communities still stay strong after tragedy?

3

“You guys are adorable.”

The fair is underway and it seems like love is in the air on TWD.  Carol and Ezekiel get to meet Lydia and Ezekiel says, “Our son is taking a girl on a date to the movies tonight.”  I guess it would be a step up from dining on bugs together.  Henry’s annoying friends try to mess with Lydia and make her jealous, but Henry tells Lydia that he really likes her, which is genuine and somewhat sweet.  We also get to see Enid and Alden confirm their relationship status, Rosita and Eugene have a heart-to-heart talk and we witness a kiss between Magna and Yumiko.  However, perhaps the sweetest moment for me was when Daryl asks Connie to feed Dog while he is gone, which I thought was adorable.  But why are we taking all this time during the episode before the season finale to devote to us shipping these characters together?  While all of this was going on, I knew that it meant that something big was about to happen.  Someone is definitely going to die and seeing them happy and together will only make us that much more heartbroken later.  I almost wish I wasn’t right here, but we aren’t watching a Rom-Com.

2

“I don’t know if there’s a happy ending here.”

You’re absolutely right, Carol, as Daryl takes out the A team to investigate things further.  Daryl is with Carol, Michonne, and Yumiko, but they are quickly surrounded by walkers and then come face to face with an overwhelmingly large group of the Whisperers.  They fight valiantly, but they are outnumbered here.  Daryl sees Beta again, who tells him, “You just had to give me the girl…now that deal is done.”  After watching a lot of setup and Rom-Com moments, I thought that this was the major plot point before the storm hits in the season finale, but nothing could prepare me for what came next.

1

“I want to tell you a different story.”

So, we are now at my top moment and I want to remind you again that major spoilers are ahead.  While the fair is going on, Alpha uses her freshly made skin mask to fit in and walk around.  She ends up even conversing with Ezekiel and is quite convincing and later sits down next to Lydia at the movies, motioning for her to be quiet.  We then go back to Alpha approaching Daryl and the others, as she tells Daryl to come with her.  Alpha recognizes what it means to talk to someone leader-to-leader and she sees that within Daryl.  Alpha shows Daryl a huge horde of walkers beyond the cliff and tells him that she has let his people live all this time.  Daryl asks Alpha if she killed Lydia, but Alpha doesn’t directly answer this.  She tells Daryl that she wants his people to stay on his side of the border and that he will know it when he sees it.  Ominous, right?  Alpha also tells Daryl that she doesn’t think he can protect her daughter, but she hopes that she is wrong, which reveals the tiniest sliver of humanity within Alpha.  When we see Alpha crying after Lydia has told her to leave, Alpha kills the Whisperer who witnesses her displaying human emotion.  Even if humanity exists within Alpha, she is not about to compromise her position as the leader.

Daryl heads off with Michonne, Carol, and Yumiko, and they stumble across Siddiq, who has clearly been taken or attacked.  As they begin to approach the border, you can see stakes lined up from far away.  The stakes are decorated with the decapitated re-animated heads of ten victims, but of course, we need to get a little bit closer and zoom in on each and every one of them, to truly feel the impact here.  So who didn’t make it?  Here is the complete list for your reference:

The Highwaymen’s Ozzy and Alek:  I was just starting to like them too.

D.J. and Frankie:  Former saviors that I almost forgot about.  I’m still glad that you were able to at least try and protect members of the community.

Tammy Rose:  I found it interesting that Tammy Rose was up here, only because we watch Alpha take a moment to look at her and the former Whisperer baby, which had me thinking that perhaps this selection wasn’t random?  Either way, I feel really bad for her husband.

Rodney and Addy:   I almost forgot about these characters, but they were Henry’s annoying friends and they did converse with Lydia, so is that why they are up here?  I also think it’s important to note that Alpha is not above selecting children to die.  Did she determine who was weak or was this just the luck of the draw?

Enid:  So here come some of the bigger characters.  We get a glimpse of Alden looking for Enid while he is performing and my heart sank.  Enid has not really had too much screen time lately, but this was still awful to see.

Tara:  I was not prepared to see Tara up here and I immediately started crying.  I have a soft spot for Tara because she is goofy and just true to herself, reminding me a lot of myself sometimes.  Tara was also the first LGBTQ character on the show and she has grown so much as a leader and a friend.  In the comic series, it was Ezekiel up here, but a major leader from a community needs to go.  I’m just really sad that it was my girl, Tara, who deserved better.

Henry:  As much as I have complained that Henry is such a pointless and annoying character, he didn’t deserve this fate.  However, Lydia kind of sealed this outcome for him by defying her mother.  You really didn’t think that Alpha would let Lydia live and keep her new boo, right?  What really got me here was Daryl trying to protect Carol from seeing this, as he repeats, “No, just look at me.”  My heart truly went out to Carol in this moment.

Siddiq is left alive and explains that Alpha told him to talk about what happened, mostly to drive them apart and scare them, but Siddiq stands before everyone to tell them a different story to inspire them.  Siddiq tells them about their friends and family coming together one last time to fight for their lives with honor.  They became real heroes and Siddiq explains, “We have to keep going for them and for all of us…we need to honor them and remember these friends…our family, died as heroes.  That’s the story that I want to tell you and for us to remember.”  This moment was truly powerful and it proved that hope can still exist even in the worst of times.  In the beginning of the episode, the couple traveling to the fair are murdered, but are carrying H necklaces, which represent Hilltop or Home, but they also represent hope.  Daryl takes Lydia out to the spot where Henry died and she leaves one for him and I don’t think that she will ever forget what Henry did for her. 

Overall, this episode initially gave us a lot of setup for what’s to come, but it also provided us with one of the most shocking moments of the entire series here.  After the episode, I could not stop thinking about what happened and that image of all ten re-animated heads on the stakes, marking the border.  It was beyond disturbing and so heart wrenching, but we know that no one is every really safe on this show.  That doesn’t mean that it makes these moments any less tragic; however, as we connect so much with these characters and continue to root for them to prevail.  Winter is coming in true GOT fashion, but our favorite characters will need to keep fighting.  Will this tragedy inspire strength and community?  Let’s hope so, but I also think we need Negan at this point.  Maybe let him out of the cage already, Michonne?  Stay tuned for the season finale!

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

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

The Search for Alice is available here!

The Search for Alice Feb 2019

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

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

[twitter-follow screen_name=’TV_Fanatic_Girl’]

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

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 9 episode 14: “We Have To Protect The People We Love”

Happy Monday TV fans!  After watching AMC’s The Walking Dead season 9 episode 14, I remembered that scars are not always on the outside.  Sometimes the scars we can’t forget run past our flesh, screaming on the inside, refusing to be tamed.  They are a constant reminder of something, but they can also be a badge of courage, pushing us forward and giving us strength.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In last night’s episode, “Scars,” we get an important glimpse into Michonne’s past and finally learn the truth about the “X” marks.  Meanwhile, Lydia continues to make a great impression wherever she goes and Negan sheds some light on his unconventional friendship with Judith.  My top 5 moments from The Walking Dead season 9 episode 14 are:

5

“What about her?”

Daryl arrives at Alexandria’s gates, looking for some help from Michonne, as Henry is badly injured.  However, Lydia’s presence does not make things easy, as Michonne and the others do not trust outsiders.  Daryl vouches for Lydia and says that she is with them, but can they really trust her?  Michonne explains that she does trust Daryl and allows them to pass through, but she’s definitely keeping her guard up.

4

“Think about that.”

The gross ship between Henry and Lydia continues, as Lydia tells Henry that she will never forget what he did and starts touching his scar, explaining that she likes it.  Michonne interrupts this stomach-turning love connection to have a talk with Lydia.  She sits next to her on the stairs and says, “To save my people, I’ve had to risk others…it’s what I had to do.”  Lydia listens intently, as Michonne further says, “If I could just walk away and take all the risk with me…think about that.”  Michonne walks away without letting Lydia respond to this, but her message is pretty clear and to the point.  Is Lydia strong enough to do the right thing here and walk away?  Lydia cares about Henry, but she is constantly putting her new friends in danger by being with them.

3

“So now you’re curious.”

I love how Negan is now the constant voice of reason, as Michonne confronts him when Judith goes missing.  Michonne wants to know more about their friendship and thinks that Negan is feeding Judith bullshit to earn her trust.  However, Negan gently reminds Michonne that Judith can “smoke out the bullshit.”  He tells Michonne that Judith likes hearing stories about her father and brother, as Negan tells her about some bad-ass moments featuring them, which brings her closer to her family.  Negan says that he shoots it straight with Judith and Michonne asks him if he told her about what he did to Glenn and Abraham.  Negan surprises her by saying that she has heard those stories too, but Michonne has heard enough and tells him, “You don’t get to talk to me about Carl…she is my daughter!” 

Judith is Michonne’s daughter and Negan reminds her that she acts a lot like her mother sometimes, which is actually really great advice and ultimately points Michonne in the right direction so that she can find Judith before anything happens to her.  Michonne has been trying to protect Judith’s innocence for so long, but perhaps it is time for her to start treating her like the strong young woman she is becoming.

2

“Children are capable of anything.”

During the episode, we flash back to Michonne’s past when she was pregnant with R.J.  Michonne gets a blast from her past, as she crosses paths with her old friend, Jocelyn, played by True Blood’s Rutina Wesley.  Michonne is so happy to see her and welcomes her, agreeing to help her save her group of children.  Jocelyn explains that none of the adults in her group made it, but that children can be capable of anything, as she has become a den mother of sorts to them.  However, everything is not as it seems, as Michonne discovers that they have raided their supplies and left Alexandria, taking Judith and some of the other kids with them. 

Michonne and Daryl rush off after them and are caught, as we watch the horrifying act of the children branding both Michonne and Daryl with the “X” marks under Jocelyn’s instruction.  Michonne manages to break free and refuses to leave her daughter behind, as she shows just how far a mother will go to protect her child.  Michonne kills Jocelyn and tries to get through to the children, but they are too far gone to know what is right and wrong at this point.  Michonne’s stomach is slashed by one of the children, which was horrifying to watch.  I seriously could not believe that Jocelyn and the children could be this cruel and merciless, but we are living in different times now.  Judith’s life is threatened and Michonne does what she must do to protect her daughter.  She kills the children in her way and saves her daughter and she’s had to live with this choice for all this time.  No wonder she does not trust anyone at this point.

1

“We have to protect the people we love and we will.”

Negan is not the only one to give Michonne some advice, as Daryl suggests that Michonne tells Judith about that day as well.  After tracking Judith down and stopping the walkers in her way, Michonne tells Judith that she has to tell her something.  Judith actually remembers that day and explains that she initially did not recognize her mother because she was covered in blood.  She didn’t talk after it happened because she thought it made her mother sad, which furthers this loving bond between Michonne and Judith.  Michonne chose to be Judith’s mother, but it has not been easy, especially since Rick is gone.  However, Michonne does the best she can to protect her family, but she recognizes that it is time to finally confide in her daughter and tell her the truth.  Michonne takes Judith to the spot she buried, which is where Michonne made the promise to never bury another child again.  Judith understands where her mother is coming from and this is a really important moment for these two.  Michonne agrees to help Judith track down Daryl and the others, as they approach the Kingdom together, but we learn that the Whisperers are lurking in the bushes, ready to inform Alpha about this place.

Overall, this episode provided us with some really important information and shocked us with horrible truths and realities.  The dead have not been the main threat on this show for quite some time, as we witness how dangerous humanity can be.  We don’t always see betrayal coming, but sometimes we have to take a risk and trust someone to protect the ones we love.  I was impressed with the performances and even though it was more of a transition episode, I thought that it was necessary and important, revealing so much about Michonne’s character and reminding us that each decision can have a consequence, which makes leading extremely difficult.  Is Michonne ready to take on Alpha?  We’ll have to see, but it looks the Whisperers are done waiting in the shadows.  Stay tuned!

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

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