Tag: secrets

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Riverdale” season 2 episode 22 season finale: “Welcome to New Southside”

Happy Thursday TV fans!  After watching the CW’s Riverdale season 2 episode 22 season finale last night, we are left with some major cliffhangers that will need to be addressed once season 3 begins.  I’m not sure I can wait that long, but I have to say that the season 2 finale provided us with a lot of content and answers, while sprinkling in some unexpected twists and turns as well.  Do you think you have it all figured out?  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In last night’s episode, “Chapter Thirty-Five:  Brave New World,” the fate of Jughead and Fangs is revealed.  Meanwhile, Kevin finds romance, Cheryl reminds us why everything looks good on her, Fred throws his support to Southsiders in need, and Betty tries to come to terms with what her father has done.  My top 5 moments from Riverdale season 2 episode 22 season finale are:

5

Jughead and Fangs are alive.

In the beginning of the episode, we cut to the scene fans have been talking about from the preview in the cemetery.  Luckily, it was just a dream and our protagonist, Jughead is alive in the hospital.  We also learn that Fangs is going to be alright too so fans everywhere can take a deep sigh of relief.  While these answers immediately comforted me, the drama is nowhere near over.  Jughead remembers that Mr. Lodge is behind everything, but his father, FP tries to tell him that the Serpents don’t exist anymore.  Betty and the others are beyond thrilled to find out that Jughead is alright, but Archie cuts to the chase when he explains that “there’s another mystery to solve.”  Who is the second black hood?  Theories are running wild, as they know that Mr. Lodge could be behind it since the motives seem to be purely political.  But how are they going to prove it?  While we get an answer to this question later on, it seems a little bit too easy and I’m not sure I’m buying it.

4

“Conspiring against my parents is proving to be a full time job.”

Veronica is still supporting Fred in the mayoral campaign, as she has taken a stand against her family.  She is done letting her father call the shots and it looks like Hermione has finally come around as well.  But can her motives be truly trusted?  We know that Mr. Lodge is a master manipulator and I would like to think that Hermione is trying to do right by her daughter, especially since her husband’s actions nearly got them both killed.  You can never be too careful with a Lodge, however; as we know that every action has intent behind it.  Hermione explains to Veronica that Mr. Lodge needs the Southside bar, “Whyte Wyrm” to further his plan.  Veronica seeks out the help of our favorite lawyer in town, Mrs. McCoy in order to get her money back.  This may be the only chance she has to stop her father, but is she ready to take him on and face the consequences?  Veronica soon realizes that “there’s a better smarter play here.”  She buys the “Whyte Wyrm” and makes a deal with her father.  She offers to trade it for Pop’s Diner.  Veronica realizes that Pop’s Diner is the only safe haven left in town where the people of Riverdale can truly belong and is not about to let it remain in her father’s clutches.  But is this really the right move?  Mr. Lodge tells Veronica that if they make this deal, that’s it.  Her credit cards, her trust fund, and her legacy will all be gone and there will be no turning back.  While we see the hesitation written over Veronica’s face, she accepts the consequences and the deal is done.  After all, “it’s all blood money anyway.”  But is Veronica really ready to take on a simple life where nothing comes easy?  At least she has her new business venture to distract her for now.

3

“Everything looks good on me.”

Cheryl works with Mrs. McCoy as well and Nana Rose is now officially her legal guardian.  Cheers Cheryl!  You deserve some happiness for sure.  Cheryl is beyond excited to deliver the papers to her mother, but is surprised to discover a secret meeting between her, Claudius, and Mr. Lodge.  Cheryl tells Veronica about what she saw, knowing full well that they were not trading maple syrup recipes.  Later on, Cheryl is getting ready to visit her “Cherie,” which I have to say is an adorable term of endearment for Toni.  Cheryl’s mother warns her not to go to the “Whyte Wyrm” because it is about to be raided by the police.  It seems like Mrs. Blossom has actually shown some concern for her daughter, but why now?  Either way, Cheryl warns everyone and Archie and Jughead get the Serpents out safely.  After the Southsiders receive a memo from the principal that they are going to have to go to “Seaside High” due to sudden overcrowding, no one is ready to just accept this.  All of our favorite characters are wearing Serpent jackets and are ready to walk out, showing their support for the Southside.  Toni tells Cheryl, “that jacket looks good on you” and of course Cheryl replies with, “Everything looks good on me.”  When Toni suggests that they “make it official,” Choni fans everywhere are swooning.  While we know she means becoming a Serpent, perhaps they can finally make their relationship legit.  These two beautiful ladies have definitely earned it and have proven their love for one another over and over.  It’s about time they get some time in the spotlight.  Don’t you agree? 

2

“I’m not like you.”

While all of the drama with Mr. Lodge is taking center stage, Betty and her mother are trying to put the pieces together again after Hal is taken off to jail.  The paparazzi are surrounding the house and Alice practically has a breakdown when she screams at them and quotes Dante, suggesting that their house is the entrance to hell.  Well darkness certainly resided there for quite some time, but the goodness of Alice and Betty certainly outweighs it.  Betty blames herself for what happened, however; and feels like she should have been a better detective and seen what was right in front of her.  While everyone around her reminds her that this is not her fault, Betty is still having doubts.  She wonders if evil can be passed on and Jughead tells her that she is a good person.  Now it’s up to Betty to believe this.  But can she deny the darkness whirling around within her?  After initially deciding not to visit her father, Betty decides to go see him anyway.  Her strength is admirable and one can’t help but cheer for her in this moment.  After telling her father that she is not like him, he asks her why she is really there.  Betty’s response gave me chills, as she tells him, “To say goodbye Dad.  No more darkness.  No more evil.  It’s over.  You have no power over me.”  In this moment, I was literally standing up and cheering for our girl, Betty Cooper.  While her father seems convinced that she will return, this moment allows her to truly move on and embrace the goodness within her.  I couldn’t be more proud.  Go Betty!  Now Alice on the other hand seems like she may be in need of some serious guidance.  Polly lets her know that she wants her to meet the person who “healed” her, but there is definitely something fishy about this.  The set up is certainly there for next season, but will Betty be able to save her mother from a possible cult?  We’ll have to stay tuned to find out.

1

“Welcome to new Southside.”

The end of the season finale brings a lot of change, as new leaders step up and heroes are torn down.  Archie is officially announced as the president of the school, which is certainly the right choice.  We also learn that the Southsiders are still welcome at Riverdale High.  Hooray!  Fred, on the other hand, loses the election to Hermione, but not without truly making an impact with the Southsiders.  After all, Fred opened his home to them and reminded us the importance of being a good neighbor to those in need. Hermione shows up at his doorstep and congratulates him, which actually seems sincere, so perhaps Riverdale does still have some good leadership after all.  Leadership changes within the Serpents as well, as FP officially retires and passes the torch to Jughead.  Jughead accepts and his first order of business is to give Cheryl her red Serpent jacket, which matches perfectly with the killer red boots she wore to the ceremony.  Is there a Serpent dance in Cheryl’s future?  We’ll have to see, but it’s great to see her become a part of this group, especially since she has been searching to belong for so long.  Well deserved Jughead and Cheryl!  While all of these new leaders step up, a dangerous group has come to power, however.  Mr. Lodge sits with his inner circle and discusses the plans for the future.  Everyone clearly has their own role to play.  For example, Claudius will handle the drugs and Mrs. Blossom wants a brothel.  Seriously?  Well I guess that’s to be expected.  There is someone who still stands in the way, however; and Mr. Lodge is ready to eliminate the threat once and for all.  Archie sneaks into the Lodge house and threatens Hiram.  He tells him that he knows he is behind everything, which includes Tall Boy supposedly being the second Black Hood and reminds him about the boy, Cassidy who was killed when they went up to the lake.  Archie tells him, “wherever you go, whatever you do, I’m gonna be there watching.”  Archie seems to be channeling his best impression of Liam Neeson here when he slams down the knife on the table to show he means business, but Mr. Lodge is ready to accept the challenge.  Right before Archie is sworn in as the president of the school in the auditorium; Mr. Lodge shows up and nods at him, as if to say he won the battle.  Archie is arrested for the murder of Cassidy up at Shadow Lake.   While Mr. Lodge may have won the battle, he has certainly not won the war just yet.  It looks like Bughead will need to take a break from being King and Queen Serpent to put their detective skills to the test to save their friend.  If anyone can help Archie, it’s his friends and family.  Look out Mr. Lodge because you are absolutely outmatched.  Stay tuned!

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

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

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Ranking the top 5 moments from “Riverdale” season 2 episode 21: “Judgment Night”

Happy Thursday TV fans!  After watching the CW’s Riverdale season 2 episode 21 last night, secrets are revealed, unlikely heroes are born, and a sacrifice has left us on the edge of our seats.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In last night’s episode, “Chapter Thirty-Four:  Judgment Night,” Fangs is rushed to the hospital and his real attacker is revealed.  Hermione Lodge announces a bounty award for the Black Hood and Veronica finds a file that causes her to lose faith in her father.  Meanwhile, Cheryl fends off the Black Hood, Betty attempts to protect her mother, and Jughead is faced with his old enemy, Penny Peabody.  My top 5 moments from Riverdale season 2 episode 21 are:

5

“I only miss when I mean to.”

In the beginning of the episode, Cheryl opens her door and finds the Black Hood waiting for her.  She doesn’t waste any time and rushes up to her bedroom.  Cheryl is able to get out the window to her bow and arrow set and shows off her impressive archery skills.  Cheryl’s got a crimson hood of her own and takes on the Black Hood without revealing the slightest bit of fear.  Cheryl is not a scared little girl anymore, embracing the hero within her and defending herself.  She calls Betty to warn her that the Black Hood is wounded and heading through the woods.  Betty’s initial reaction is to run to her father, but soon learns that she may not be able to reason with him anymore, as the darkness and madness within him have fully consumed his actions at this point.

4

“What the hell do you boys think you’re doing to my school?”

After Fangs is shot, the Serpents are looking for vengeance and decide to destroy school property to make their point.  Archie attempts to get them to stop and reveals the new information that Midge’s mother is responsible for shooting Fangs, unable to process her grief and looking for someone to blame.  While one can be sympathetic toward Midge’s mother, the Serpents do not back down, as they explain that this is further proof why they need to destroy everything on the Northside.  Archie is ready to defend, but there is no need to do so when Principal Weatherbee proves to be someone you do not want to mess with, especially when he has a baseball bat.  Let’s hear it for the adults of Riverdale!  Later on, the Ghoulies show up at Pop’s Diner and surround the place, leaving poor Archie alone again to try and stop them.  Luckily, it’s “Riverdale Dads to the rescue,” as Kevin so eloquently put it, when Sheriff Keller, Fred, and FP show up to defend their town.  I mean seriously Archie cannot take on every single threat, but it’s great to see some teamwork here even when Riverdale is being threatened left and right.

3

“Chaos is good for us.”

As things get worse in Riverdale, Mr. Lodge sees this as an opportunity, proving to once again be the most dangerous player in town.  Hermione has her suspicions and asks if he is keeping anything from her, but he assures her that everything he is doing is for her and Veronica.  Hermione announces a one million dollar bounty for whoever can deliver the Black Hood and Betty hilariously asks if that is even legal.  Veronica takes it a step further when she asks, “Are you and Daddy trying to turn Riverdale into Gotham City?”  Her suspicions cause her to take action and she discovers the hidden file her father is keeping on Fred, which includes a story he is about to leak, revealing the affair between Hermione and Fred.  Veronica is appalled that her father could do this to his own wife’s reputation, but Mr. Lodge will stop at nothing to damage Fred’s campaign.  As if this wasn’t enough drama for the Lodge family to deal with, Poppa Poutine’s son shows up looking for someone to blame for his father’s death and knocks on the Lodge door.  He takes out Andre and attacks Veronica and Hermione, looking to take away the people that Mr. Lodge cares about the most to even the score.  Another unlikely hero emerges when Hermione tells her daughter to run and she gets to her gun in time to stop this man, protecting her family.  When Mr. Lodge shows up, he tries to tell them both how sorry he is, but Veronica doesn’t want to hear it.  She backs away from her father as if he is a stranger and tells him, “It’s your mess daddy.  You clean it up.”

2

“I always knew you were a mama’s boy.”

While fans everywhere have accepted that Hal Cooper is the real Black Hood, we have been waiting for some solid evidence.  Well it’s finally arrived as Hal is no longer hiding his identity.  After Cheryl wounds him, he leaves the hospital, but not before killing a doctor in his way.  Betty realizes that the monster within Hal is no longer thinking rationally and worries for her mother’s safety when he threatens her.  Betty rushes home and Hal tells his daughter and wife that he wants to show them a home movie.  Alice is immediately confused, as Betty’s suspicions have now become a reality.  A killer is born during the film, as we see Hal as a young boy speaking to his mother about why he has to lie about his father killing the Conway family.  His mother tells him that “sinners have to die” and that Hal “must do better.”  Hal wants the conversation recorded so he can tell his story.  He admits that he is the Black Hood and takes credit for all the attacks and murders he is responsible for.  When asked about Fred, he mentions his adultery, focusing purely on cleaning up the sin in this town.  Hal does not take credit for the shooting at the debate, however; which makes Mr. Lodge our prime suspect once again behind this crime and perhaps in the second attack against Archie and his father.  When Alice and Betty realize the immediate danger they are in, Alice becomes a hero we can root for.  She tries to provoke Hal to distract him and it works like a charm.  After Hal tries to choke Alice, Betty knocks him out, proving once again that team Betty and Alice is a force to be reckoned with.  They call the police and Hal is arrested, ending the threat that has been tearing Betty’s life apart for now.  But something tells me that this is not the last we will see or hear of Hal Cooper, the Black Hood.

1

Jughead makes the ultimate sacrifice.

Penny and the Ghoulies are back and demand that the Serpents give up and leave so that they can take over this town.  Penny takes things a step further when she holds Toni captive, demanding that Jughead pay her a visit.  Luckily, Jughead brings some back-up, which is none other than our favorite archer in town, Cheryl Blossom.  “Untie her you Serpent Hag!”  I found myself cheering as Cheryl rescues her love, Toni, proving once again that Choni is absolutely swoon-worthy.  Jughead realizes that the Serpents are no match for the Ghoulies and calls up the devil himself, Mr. Lodge.  Jughead has put together all the pieces and knows that Mr. Lodge is pulling the strings here.  He makes a counter offer and shows up alone to see Penny, but not before he calls Betty to tell her how much he loves her.  Betty immediately knows something is wrong and calls FP who rushes off to help Jughead.  The end of the episode leaves fans with a cliff-hanger that perhaps no one saw coming.  FP emerges with Jughead’s lifeless body in his arms, covered in blood with his tattoo burned off.  Is our main protagonist really dead?  What happens now?  The questions are unending, as we need to wait a very long week to get to our season finale and finally learn the fate of our beloved Jughead Jones.  Let’s try to stay positive Bughead fans, but it looks like we need a miracle in Riverdale.

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on Riverdale in the comments section below.  Happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

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Ranking the top 5 moments from “Fear the Walking Dead” season 4 episode 4: “How Did You End Up Here?”

Happy Monday TV fans!  After watching AMC’s Fear the Walking Dead season 4 episode 4, I learned that some of us are born to run, but are we able to do so when we need to?  When it comes to survival, there has to be something more to live for than just food, as Nick explained.  Surviving becomes the everyday routine, but living is the hard part.  Living with guilt, living with emptiness, and living with the growing feeling inside you that you may never connect with the one you love again.  That’s the hard part.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet.  In Sunday’s episode, “Buried,” Al asks a big question and is in for an emotional roller coaster ride, as Victor, Alicia, and Luciana talk about why one day was so important.  Meanwhile, Morgan tells John that he plans to leave once Nick is buried and John discovers a painful truth of his own.   My top 5 moments from Fear the Walking Dead season 4 episode 4 are:

5

“How did you end up here? That’s a big question.  Sometimes those are the easiest ones to answer.”

In the beginning of the episode, Al sets everything in motion when she asks the big question to Victor, Alicia, and Luciana.  We get to hear about one day in particular that changed everything for each character, which lets us into their hearts and minds for just a little while.  Luciana remembers heading off to the library with Nick when everyone went out looking for supplies.  Luciana tried to get Nick to stay on track and focus on finding food, but he reminded her that “people need a reason to stick around and it can’t all be about food.”  Nick’s eyes lit up at the idea of starting a library at the stadium.  Even though it seemed like he mostly wanted to do this for Charlie, his words have a lot of truth behind them.  Luciana talks about a book of maps and navigation that they came across.  They decided to flip to any page randomly and that would decide their fate and where they head to next.  Luciana gravely says, “I should have never opened that book.”  The book opened to somewhere north, but Nick realized that the book took them to somewhere much farther than on those maps.  It’s what sparked the idea to find seeds and fertilizer to replant and build up the stadium.  Luciana breaks down into tears when she talks about this.  Nick’s focus on re-growth seemed like a wonderful sentiment, but it is brutally destroyed when we remember that Nick is dead now at the hand of Charlie.  However, that doesn’t mean that he wasn’t right all along about needing something more.

4

“You’re either with us trying to keep this going or you’re not.”

When Al gets to Alicia, she remembers that very same day and talks about going out to the abandoned water park with Naomi to find supplies.  Naomi was the newest member to their group and Alicia was putting a lot of trust in her when they set out together.  Going on the run brought them closer, but that can be a dangerous thing.  After barely escaping a gruesome death on the slip n’ slide filled with walkers, they came across a stash of medical supplies which made the trip worth it.  Naomi told Alicia to keep a look out and grabbed the supplies, taking off for the truck.  However, she doesn’t make it very far when she realized there was no gas in the tank.  Alicia remained calm when she approached the truck and shared a little about how she went off on her own for a while and that she soon discovered it was not where she really wanted to be.  She offered to get Naomi gas and told her that perhaps she will come to the same conclusion.  Alicia’s willingness to let Naomi go showed her that she truly understood the need to run, but she’s been down that path before and she won’t leave her mother, Madison again.  Naomi ultimately came around and returned to the stadium with Alicia.  They explained that they were going to set up an infirmary but Naomi warned Madison that “things are going to get worse before they get better.”  She’s certainly right about that, but no one could imagine to what extent.

3

“You want to get to know me.  This is me.”

For me, Victor’s disclosure of that day is the most resonating.  Victor carried his past around him and tried to cling to the good man he was been trying to be.  However, we know that it is no easy task to move forward without looking back from time to time.  Victor had a car filled with supplies that he had been keeping hidden from everyone.  His initial plan was to run away and survive as long as he could, but he had second thoughts.  Victor spotted the “Vermont’s finest” bottle that he was saving to celebrate with Alicia and said, “I got a little reminder of what I stood to lose.”  Victor brought back the truck with supplies to Madison but didn’t tell her the truth.  Even though Victor had always done what he needed to do, he found himself staying with Madison to do the right thing, even if will not work out in the end.  Victor had finally become the good man he had been trying to be for so long but at what cost?

2

“I should have convinced Madison to leave.  I should have kept the car secret.  We should have flipped to another page.”

While each character’s story about that day is emotional and sympathetic, this moment intertwines all three of them and reminds us that the day all results in the same outcome.  Nick is dead and the guilt is all too real and heartbreaking.  They all wanted to believe or stay or become a better person, but this had a consequence that can never be reversed.  While we all find ourselves replaying moments in our lives, regret and grief is something that we unfortunately need to experience along the way.  It can change us forever if we let it or it can remind us to hold on to the connections around us.  For now, it looks like Victor, Alicia, and Luciana are ready to turn to vengeance, but is it truly the right call?

1

“The answers only matter if they’re the truth.”

The van pulls over and Morgan is surprised that they want to bury Nick in some random spot off the road.  However, he quickly realizes that Victor, Alicia, and Luciana have another agenda, as they dig up weapons and supplies, ready to take on the Vultures.  Morgan reminds them about the importance of burying Nick and suggests that they bury him by a tree since he liked to grow things so much.  In a beautiful moment, Morgan places the blue bonnet flower over his grave, symbolizing that something good can still live on in a world filled with chaos and emptiness.  While everyone argues about whether or not to go after the Vultures, John Dorie comes across Naomi’s pack and recognizes the gun he described in the season premiere episode.  It belongs to his love; Laura who we discover is actually named Naomi.  Alicia reveals that she is dead and John is distraught, as the hope that has been keeping him going for so long finally breaks.  Al promises to find out what happened to her and goes off with Victor, Alicia, and Luciana, while Morgan stays behind with John.  John tells Morgan that he was right about being better on your own, which is perhaps the most heartbreaking moment of all.  John tried to see the good in everything around him, but his belief has been harshly shattered.  Based on the preview from next week’s episode, it looks like we will get to learn quite a bit about John and Naomi’s time together, but there is another question that is much more pertinent.  If Naomi is dead and the stadium is gone, where is Madison?  I am desperately hoping that she is alive, but our favorite characters are dropping like flies.  We’ll have to stay tuned to find out!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own theories and thoughts on Fear the Walking Dead in the comments section below.  Happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

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Ranking the top 5 moments from “Riverdale” season 2 episode 19: “Prisoners”

Happy Thursday TV fans!  After watching the CW’s Riverdale season 2 episode 19 last night, I once again have Betty’s “Lollipop” ringtone playing over and over again in my head, but there is nothing sweet about Betty’s decisions, as she proves to be quite a dangerous force that you do not want to mess with.  Jughead got it absolutely right when he spoke about different kinds of “prisoners” and how difficult it can be to free oneself from a dark past, ambition, or a quest for revenge.  While our characters feel trapped behind bars figuratively speaking, Betty is quickly becoming an accomplice that could very well see the inside of a jail cell if she’s not careful.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In last night’s episode, “Chapter Thirty-Two:  Prisoners,” the town comes together to mourn the loss of Midge, Mrs. Lodge recruits Cheryl to smear Sheriff Keller, and Mr. Lodge feeds on Archie’s ambition.  Meanwhile, the Black Hood begins calling Betty again, Alice comes clean to FP, and Chic confesses.   My top 5 moments from Riverdale season 2 episode 19 are:

5

Bughead is on the case.

Everyone has their own theories about the resurfacing of the Black Hood.  While some believe it could be a copy cat killer, others believe that Mr. Svenson had been set up, leaving the real killer unmasked and still out there.  Jughead throws out Chic’s name and Betty initially dismisses this since he had no motive to hurt Midge, but then finds a connection that is worth exploring.  We learn that Mr. Svenson and Chic were at the “Sisters of Quiet Mercy” around the same time and Mr. Svenson could have recruited Chic.  Bughead decides to check this out further and they talk to one of the sisters and get their hands on Chic’s file.  Only what they find is far from what they could have ever anticipated.  The picture in the file is not Chic.  Betty demands an answer, but the Sister explains that this is the Charles Smith who stayed there.  While fans have guessed that Chic is not who he says he is for quite some time, it’s all out in the open now and Betty confronts him in front of Alice to find out what he really wants.  Chic attacks them with a knife once he realizes his cover is blown, but Betty proves to be a force to be reckoned with when she knocks him out.  Alice is distraught and rushes out.  She feels guilty for turning away the real Charles Smith from her doorstep after Chic tells her he later overdosed as a result of her rejection.  Alice cannot bear the thought of being responsible for the death of her son.  While Betty is clearly angry at his betrayal, she refuses to let Chic go until she finds out the truth.

4

“No more secrets.  No more lies.”

Alice rushes over to FP and is in tears, not knowing what to do next.  She can’t take the lies anymore, which have been wreaking havoc on her conscience.  She tells FP that she had his child and he is beyond shocked.  As he tries to comprehend this news, he stays strong for Alice who is clearly at her breaking point.  FP asks if Chic is his son and Alice explains that Chic is someone else and that their real son is dead because of her.  While we know that Alice is not directly responsible for his death, her pain and suffering is heart-breaking, as the past comes racing to the present, refusing to let go of her until she finally deals with the secrets she has kept buried for so many years.  While this revelation may bring Alice closer to FP than she imagined, that will need to be put on hold until the madness subsides.

3

Archie tells Mr. Lodge he wants to bring down the Black Hood.

During the episode, Archie feels like he keeps seeing the Black Hood, convinced that they did not get the real killer.  He shares his concerns with anyone who will listen to him, including Sheriff Keller.  Archie is worried that the killer will circle back and go after his father again and refuses to let that happen.  Before Archie can do anything else, Nick St. Clair and some of his friends jump him and hold him captive for ransom.  Nick is the least of Archie’s worries, as he eventually breaks free to rush toward Veronica’s side.  Later in the episode, he talks to Mr. Lodge about what happened and reveals to him his intent to bring the Black Hood down.  Mr. Lodge finally has the leverage he needs over Archie to control him the way he wants and agrees to help him anyway he can.

2

“How much is it worth to get him back in one piece?”

After Archie is kidnapped, Nick calls Veronica and blackmails her, demanding one million dollars.  Veronica is beyond disappointed in her parents when they refuse to pay the ransom and takes some of the money herself.  She doesn’t have nearly enough, however; and Nick proposes that they have a night together to serve as the rest of her payment.  Veronica is initially appalled by this, but will do anything to protect Archie.  Nick puts on a live feed for Archie to watch, desperately hoping that he will hurt him as much as he has hurt him.  Veronica meticulously puts on her lipstick and dresses for the occasion, but can she really go through with something like this?  Like Betty, Veronica is not one to be messed with, as she uses her charm and femininity to her advantage.  She gives Nick a taste of his own medicine and roofies him, causing him to pass out.  You would think this would be punishment enough, but Veronica is not done yet.  She calls up Nick’s father and blackmails him for one million dollars and gets exactly what she demands.  Later, she puts the money on the table and tells her parents what she did; reminding them that she is a Lodge too and always gets what she wants.

1

“That’s your very own angel of death.”

After finding out that Chic is not really her brother, Betty has a sea of emotions taking over.  With almost perfect timing, the “Lollipop” ringtone begins playing, luring her back to the darkness.  She answers and the Black Hood greets her by saying, “Hello Betty.  You miss me?”  The Black Hood asks for Betty to deliver Chic to him so that he can get what he deserves, explaining that he has murdered before.  At this point, we are not sure if Betty will follow the Black Hood’s orders.  He isn’t threatening her right now, but merely requesting this, so she has every opportunity to keep her moral compass intact.  Betty pulls a gun on Chic and takes him to the cemetery, demanding that he confess.  Chic tells her that he did kill Charles after they got in a fight but that he didn’t mean to kill him.  His tears suggest that he is finally telling the truth, but it’s too late.  Betty tells him she will begin counting and give him a head start when the Black Hood shows up at the edge of the cemetery.  Chic begins frantically questioning her, asking her what is going on, but Betty remains unwavering.  Chic finally takes her advice and rushes off, as she nods to the Black Hood.  While we are unsure if Chic was able to make it out alive or not, it doesn’t seem like we will be seeing him again anytime soon.  And as for our sweet and lovable Betty Cooper…well she is playing a dangerous game that makes her role play days seem like a distant dream.  Has Betty fully committed to the darkness?  Will she become the Black Hood’s accomplice?  Her lies to Jughead and her family suggest that this is not over for her yet either, but is the Black Hood closer to her than she thinks?  After asking where her father is, did we just unmask Hal Cooper as the real Black Hood?  All signs point to yes, but stay tuned!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on Riverdale in the comments section below.  Happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

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Ranking the top 5 moments from “Once Upon a Time” season 7 episode 15: “Operation Bromance”

After watching ABC’s Once Upon a Time season 7 episode 15 last night, it’s important to remember that even if you have made mistakes all throughout your life, it’s never too late to do something good to help tip the scale.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In last night’s episode, “Sisterhood,” we learn about how Ivy/Drizella joined the coven and how she crossed paths with another fairy-tale favorite, Gretel.  Meanwhile, Regina and Lucy take a break from “Operation Hyacinth” to bring “Operation Bromance” into the mix to help cheer up Henry at “Flynn’s Arcade,” straight out of the film, Tron.  Doctor Facilier continues to work on earning the trust of those around him, but not without making a dangerous enemy in the process and the masked killer is finally revealed.  My top 5 moments from Once Upon a Time season 7 episode 15 are:

5

“Your clandestine boyfriend…when were you going to tell me about this?”

After learning that Doctor Facilier is after the Dark One’s dagger, Regina needed to decide whether or not to involve Rumpel.  She does tell him what’s going on, but it’s clear that Rumpel is not pleased that she waited so long.  After all, Rumpel always knows more about keeping secrets than anyone else.  Rumpel gets a lead on Anastasia and explains to Regina that they need to find her before Ivy does to prevent her power from being unleashed into the wrong hands.  Even though Doctor Facilier is working very hard to win over the trust of Regina, Rumpel trusts him about as far as he can throw him.  The two come face to face and a new rivalry has emerged:  Rumpel vs Facilier, who will win?

4

“Operation Bromance is a go.”

Lucy confides in Regina that she feels awful about keeping her mother and father apart, but Regina assures her that she is doing the right thing until they can figure out a way to break the curse without harming Henry.  While Jacinda has Lucy to cheer her up, Lucy is worried about her father, Henry.  Thus creating, “Operation Bromance.”  Back in the world prior to the curse, Regina explains that Henry’s two best friends were Nook/Rogers and Jack/Nick.  Lucy strategically texts them all to get them down to “Flynn’s Arcade” in an effort to provide Henry with some much needed fun.  Henry is not initially pleased saying, “she literally texted me into the friend zone,” but Lucy has good intentions.  After a while, Henry begins to relax and have a good time with his friends, making “Operation Bromance” a success, until he makes wagers about who will walk through the door next.

3

“The next girl who walks through the door, I’m going to ask her out.”

In walks Jacinda, as if straight out of a cheesy romantic comedy flick that makes you cry even though you’ll never admit it.  The lighting is just right, her hair has just the right amount of bounce, and she smiles at Henry so brilliantly that you can practically see stars in their eyes.  Fate has brought these two crazy kids together again and the begin talking about odds and chances, proving that you make your own luck, but sometimes destiny has a funny way of not letting go until nature runs the right course.  While it’s great to see this moment between Jacinda and Henry, it’s dangerous for them to be together until Regina and Lucy can break the curse.  But will they be too late?

2

“I guess you underestimated the power of sisterhood.”

Just as Ivy/Drizella has announced that she will make amends and do good, temptation comes her way several times throughout the episode, making her choices that much more important.  She initially turns down Gothel’s deal and takes a stand against her, refusing to make the same mistake she did when she killed Gretel to join the coven.  Even though Ivy/Drizella is standing alone, she needs to stay strong in order to survive.  However, this becomes difficult when the killer targets her next.  Luckily, her pepper spray and stiletto heel provide just the right amount of back-up to get away, but Ivy/Drizella is clearly feeling vulnerable now that she knows her life is in immediate danger.  With perfect timing, Doctor Facilier approaches her and offers her up a deal.  He explains that she can use a magic bean to escape to another realm, but she will need to sacrifice her sister, Anastasia to do so.  Doctor Facilier tries to manipulate her decision by explaining that Ana will die either way, but at least she can survive in one outcome.  Ivy/Drizella is able to bring Anastasia to her with the help of a lighted lantern but makes the horrible decision to choose herself over her sister.  The tables turn quickly, however; as Gothel wakes Anastasia up and puts sister against sister.  Ivy/Drizella has made numerous mistakes just like her mother, Victoria and now she has one final chance to do something right.  She drops her weapon and the two sisters choose their bond over revenge, spoiling Gothel’s plan.  It took you long enough Ivy/Drizella, but we’re happy to see you finally get it right.

1

Intentions are revealed.

Even though Ivy/Drizella has left this realm with her sister, she did not have the key to breaking Henry’s curse, which leaves Regina in the same mess she was in before.  Doctor Facilier approaches her and explains that he merely left the two sisters so they could find each other and tapped into Ana’s magic when they re-formed their bond.  Regina is still skeptical at this point of Doctor Facilier’s motives, but he gives her the magic as a gift so that she can use it to find a way to save her son.  Regina tries not to let her feelings get in the way as she asks what the price is of accepting this gift.  Doctor Facilier charmingly explains that “the only price is your smile,” but it seems a little bit too cliché if you ask me.  While Doctor Facilier may have Regina fooled for now, Rumpel is not about to let him just take his dagger.  While all of this is going on, the masked killer is finally revealed to be…..Jack/Nick.  But why?  What does he have to gain here?  Who will he target next?  Stay tuned to find out!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on Once Upon a Time below.  Happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Riverdale” season 2 episode 17: The Wait is Over!

Happy Thursday TV fans!  After watching the CW’s Riverdale season 2 episode 17 last night, we learned that new alliances have been formed, which bring together former enemies and divide other families even further than Shakespeare could have thought even possible.  While the line between blood and loyalty has blurred almost into non-existence for some, others have put aside their selfish needs to do what is right for everyone.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In last night’s episode, “Chapter Thirty:  The Noose Tightens,” the car in Swedlow Swamp resurfaces, causing new enemies to come to town and pushing Alice to the breaking point.  Meanwhile, Betty wants a serpent tattoo, Archie continues to act first and think later, and Veronica and Toni team up to rescue Cheryl from the “Sisters of Quiet Mercy.”  My top 5 moments from Riverdale season 2 episode 17 are:

5

“No need to become the Montagues and Capulets just yet.”

It’s all out in the open now that Fred Andrews is running for mayor against Hermione Lodge and it’s about time someone took a stand to protect the town of Riverdale.  When the Andrews family comes face to face with the Lodge family, you can cut the tension with way more than a knife.  Veronica and Archie immediately detect that this is only going to get worse and Veronica tries to make light of it with some Shakespeare humor.  However, we all know that Romeo and Juliet was a tragedy and that the young lovers are the ones who get caught up in the cross fire.  Can the same be said for team Varchie?

4

Nothing stays hidden for long.

Alice is shocked to learn that the car belonging to the man Chic killed, Dwayne, has re-surfaced in Swedlow Swamp.  Alice sits down with FP, Jughead, and Betty to come up with a plan and FP reminds them of the importance of laying low and acting normal in the meantime.  However, Betty even admits that “normal is investigating when the world says they shouldn’t.”  Our favorite detective team, Bughead enlists the help of Kevin to get more information and is shocked to learn that the stolen car has been claimed by the owner.  Chic involves himself further than he should and contacts Darla who is the ex-girlfriend of Dwayne.  As if right on cue, Darla shows up at the Cooper house and tries to blackmail them for $10,000.  Alice is more than happy to give her the money and wipe her hands clean of this whole mess, but the drama isn’t over just yet.

3

“Who are you Archie?”

An excellent question from his mother and Archie should really take some time and look in the mirror to figure it out.  Archie continues to make the wrong decisions and is losing his temper more and more.  Archie even threatens some of Mr. Lodge’s criminal business associates without blinking an eye, which even has Mr. Lodge reminding him that he shouldn’t pick a fight he can’t finish.  After the Lodge family discovers that “Agent Adams” has double crossed them, they are not sure what the long term plan is.  The Lodge family is currently in danger, but Archie will stop at nothing to protect him.  Rather than show up to support his father announcing his intent to run for Mayor, Archie sets the “Dark Circle” loose on their enemies, which leads to him getting a thank you car from Mr. Lodge.  Archie is creating an even bigger divide between him and his family without realizing it, which has us wondering, is all of this really worth losing your soul over?  A Faustian deal comes to mind, especially when we can easily imagine Mr. Lodge as the devil, signing contracts in blood.  Will Archie be able to come back from this?  Will his family be able to forgive him?

2

Alice makes the right decision.

When Betty goes to retrieve the $10,000 from the bank, the man who was Chic’s “manager” shows up as well and it’s clear that the Cooper family is in a lot of trouble again because of Chic.  Luckily, the Serpent gang shows up as back-up to help them.  Darla and the manager leave for now with the cash, but it’s still very dangerous that they know more than they should.  After all, secrets never stay buried for long in Riverdale.  Alice is beyond grateful and makes an announcement to the Serpents that she is done attacking the South Side.  She makes the difficult decision to ask her son, Chic to leave since he has put her family in danger twice now and then shows up later on FP’s doorstep.  Are Alice and FP back together?  Will Chic really stay away?

1

Toni rescues Cheryl.

Fans were more than disappointed after the interrupted first kiss between Choni, but fear not, love is still blooming in the air.  Toni enlists the help of Veronica and Josie to help find Cheryl, as she knows that there is no way that she is being held in a boarding school, especially since her social media account has been dead silent.  The girls go and confront Mrs. Blossom who is armed and ready.  She tells them that Cheryl is mentally ill and even shows Josie the picture that Cheryl sketched not too long ago of the two of them, revealing that Cheryl was the one who was threatening and stalking her.  Josie is out, but Veronica and Toni are not about to completely abandon their friend.  Nana Rose makes the right call and tries to help Toni find Cheryl but is rudely interrupted by Uncle Claudius.  They then learn from Kevin that the “Sisters of Quiet Mercy” practice gay conversion therapy and that there is a secret tunnel that can lead them to Cheryl.  Toni and Veronica put on their fantastic spy-like outfits which have just the right amount of flair and break in.  Cheryl is stunned when she sees Toni and the two share a swoon-worthy kiss in front of the film screen.  The cheers for Choni should be deafening as this kiss was well worth the wait.  Veronica and Toni successfully rescue Cheryl who is surprisingly not broken from this ordeal.  Rather, she says that “revenge is a dish best served cold,” and informs Kevin that she is ready to take on the lead of the school play, which is none other than Carrie White from Stephen King’s classic.  While I’m sure that Cheryl can pull off anything, including being covered in pig’s blood, her family better watch out for sure since Cheryl is no stranger to making things in her way burn to the ground.  Stay tuned!  New episodes return on April 18th!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on Riverdale below.  Happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Riverdale” season 2 episode 16: “Primary Colors”

Happy Thursday TV fans!  After watching the CW’s Riverdale season 2 episode 16 last night, it seems like everyone is running in different directions, whether it be a path toward the truth or one to chase away nightmares.  Either way, Jughead got it absolutely right when he talked about two trains on the same track going in opposite directions, destined to collide.  The question now becomes, who is going to derail first?  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In last night’s episode, “Chapter Twenty-Nine:  Primary Colors,” Veronica makes the bold decision to run for class president and asks Betty to be her running mate.  Meanwhile, Jughead goes on a hunger strike to make a point to Mr. Lodge, Archie’s mother returns to town, Andy Cohen shows his support for Hermione Lodge, and Cheryl hosts a sleepover party that ends in disaster.  My top 5 moments from Riverdale season 2 episode 16 are:

5

“Take deep breaths, keep smiling, and turn the other cheek.”

Now that Hermione Lodge has announced she is running for mayor, the Lodge family was forced to show their poker hand early and reveal that they are planning on opening up a for profit prison.  The town of Riverdale is not so pleased with this announcement and many of the kids at school are taking it out on Veronica as a result.  Her parents discuss the importance of maintaining a low profile, but it’s hard to oblige when Ethel Muggs is pouring a strawberry milkshake over your head in front of the entire cafeteria.  Surprisingly, Veronica handles this embarrassment with grace and shrugs it off.  She is not able to keep her composure, however; when Reggie confronts her in the hallway.  While Veronica is able to successfully take a deep breath and smile, she refuses to turn the other cheek in this situation and punches Reggie in the face.  A satisfying moment for sure, but it gives Veronica the wrong type of press and her family is outraged by her behavior.  They remind her that they need her to be a “good obedient little girl,” but will Veronica comply?

4

A cupcake and a kiss.

Veronica fails to listen to her family and decides to run for class president rather than lay low.  “As the Thelma to her Louise,” Veronica naturally asks Betty to be her running mate and it seems like they have a great campaign going.  Veronica even provides everyone with a cupcake and a kiss to associate them with something sweet.  Unfortunately, everything goes more than sour after Veronica mistakenly trusts Josie with a celebrity endorsement.  While Josie appears to be on board with this, she secretly goes to Ethel and provides her with intel on Veronica, revealing that she knew about her family’s plans to turn South Side High School into a prison.  A harmless concert goes horribly wrong when Ethel hands out flyers with all of this information; causing everyone to turn against Veronica…including Betty, who tells her that she can no longer be her running mate as a result.  Will Veronica be able to earn everyone’s trust again?  Unfortunately it looks like she will need to make a very difficult decision between her family and her friends to do so.

3

Cheryl’s fears become a reality.

Cheryl has been having nightmares and hallucinations ever since she overheard her mother’s plan to get rid of her and Nana Rose.  She decides to hold a sleep over party with her “inner circle and cousin Betty” to distract herself, but it’s really to confide in them about what’s going on.  Everyone is not really sure what to make of Cheryl’s fears, but Betty steps up and tells her that she feels like strangers are lurking behind every corner at her house too and empathizes with her.  Cheryl is beyond terrified and gets even closer to Toni.  Choni is about to share their first kiss, only they are interrupted suddenly.  Nana Rose has fallen badly and is rushed to the hospital, but Cheryl knows deep down that this cannot be an accident.  She is convinced that Uncle Claudius and her mother pushed Nana down the stairs but doesn’t have any proof.  Her mother intervenes when she tries to talk to the doctor and takes her into the car ominously saying that they will “make her all better.”  Noticing Cheryl’s disappearance, Toni shows up at the Blossom house to find her, but her mother mechanically tells her that she is out of the country at boarding school.  Toni knows this cannot be true, but the door slams in her face before she can get in another word.  The end of the episode reveals Cheryl locked away in some type of mental institution, her hair done up in pigtails, as if to bring her back to some sort of childhood state away from the rest of the world.  Will Toni be able to rescue her?  Why is Uncle Claudius wearing his dead brother’s pajamas?  It looks like the Blossom family is not done with secrets and deception just yet, but we will have to stay tuned to find out more.

2

“You know nothing about my darkness…but you will.”

After Betty confronts Chic about the DNA results, Alice explains that Chic doesn’t have any trace of Blossom blood because Hal is not his father.  While it seems like a reasonable explanation, Betty is still not buying Chic’s act and is determined to get to the bottom of this and protect her family.  Betty is outraged when she finds Kevin over at her house who told Chic about her “catfishing scheme,” and sold her out in the process.  Betty warns Chic to stay away from her friends and threatens him with a lighter right over his face, reminding him that she “catches bad men” and for him to “consider himself warned.”  Chic does not listen to her threat, however; and goes behind Betty’s back and tells Alice what she did.  He then shows Alice Betty’s role play wig, revealing that her and Jughead have taken their relationship to the next level.  Alice is shocked by this information but has a heart-to-heart talk with Betty later on and confides to her about her past relationship with FP.  While she rules FP out as Chic’s father, it begs the question, who is his real father?  Betty tells Chic that she wants a truce for their mother’s sake, but it’s clear that she is not giving up anytime soon.  Go Betty!

1

Archie vs Jughead.

Jughead makes the brave decision to go on a hunger strike to continue his stand against Mr. Lodge and the destruction of South Side High School.  While Betty supports him on this, Archie is having conflicted feelings yet again.  Jughead tells Archie that they are like “two trains running on the same track in opposite directions, destined to collide” and he is absolutely right.  Jughead clearly gets Mr. Lodge’s attention and asks the serpents, “Who is ready to go to war?”  They make the decision to chain themselves to South Side High School creating a lot of publicity in the process.  Archie’s mother returns to Riverdale and is appalled by Archie’s behavior.  She tells him that he needs to respect his father who has always done everything the right way to support him and cannot get over his allegiance to the Lodge Family.  Mr. Lodge steps things up when he tells Archie to take force against Jughead.  Archie clearly does not want to hurt his best friend, but Mr. Lodge ominously reminds him about the consequences of breaking an oath.  Archie takes this opportunity to ask for a favor in return and Mr. Lodge agrees to let his father out of his contract.  This leads to Fred announcing that he will run for mayor against the Lodge Family, which will clearly cause even more drama.  While Archie is trying to protect his family with his decision, he cuts Jughead’s chains, creating a rift that could shake the entire town.  Jughead refuses to fight him and reminds Archie that there are cameras all around, capturing exactly what he is doing.  In Jughead’s mind he is winning the good fight, but it looks like he is losing his best friend in the process.  He makes the brave decision to run for class president and wants Betty to be his co-president.  The collision is becoming all too real now, as Archie and Jughead become that much more divided.  Who will wind up victorious?  Stay tuned!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on Riverdale below.  Happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Riverdale” season 2 episode 15: “There Will Be Blood”

Happy Thursday TV fans!  After watching the CW’s Riverdale season 2 episode 15 last night, I am pondering whether or not blood really is thicker than water?  On the surface, it seems like familial bonds are the strongest there are, but it’s more than just sharing blood.  It’s about love, trust, and unconditional support.  While some characters manipulate the need for this bond to get what they want, others go in a completely different direction and swear allegiance to what could be their greatest enemy in an attempt to do the right thing.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In last night’s episode, “Chapter Twenty-Eight:  There Will Be Blood,” Jughead gets closer and closer to finding out the truth, tracking down every lead he comes across.  Meanwhile, Betty enlists Kevin to help her find out what Chic is hiding, Hal wants a divorce, and a secret will from Mr. Blossom brings new and familiar faces to town.  My top 5 moments from Riverdale season 2 episode 15 are:

5

Cheryl and Toni continue to bond.

Choni is back for this episode and it’s about time Cheryl has someone in her corner.  When Cheryl learns about the secret will, she invites Toni to attend the reading and even helps her try on some of her clothes.  Cheryl’s mother is clearly not happy with her presence, but Cheryl is not about to let her ruin this.  Toni points out that Cheryl’s mother “is a nightmare” and Cheryl agrees with “isn’t she though?”  While this seems like a harmless observation, Toni is spot on when Cheryl eavesdrops on a private conversation between her mother and her long-lost Uncle Claudius, who seem to be hinting at getting rid of Nana Blossom and then Cheryl.  Is Cheryl’s life in immediate danger?  Who can she turn to for help?  Hopefully, Toni will continue to be there for Cheryl, as it looks like she may be in the need of some serious rescuing.

4

Jughead tries to uncover the truth behind Mr. Lodge’s master plan.

In the beginning of the episode, Jughead is hard at work, desperately trying to put together the pieces of the puzzle staring in front of him.  When Archie approaches him and tells him that Mr. Lodge bought Pop’s diner without anyone knowing, Jughead feels the need to get to the bottom of this because he thinks that Riverdale is in great danger.  After interviewing Pop and learning that Pop wants to keep this from getting out because he is trying to protect his family, Jughead obliges but not before he gets a mysterious phone call from a bus driver that has some information.  After learning that Mr. Lodge has a connection to “Shankshaw Prison,” he turns to his father, FP for some much needed assistance.  FP pays one of his former connections a visit in prison and they get some seriously helpful intel.  Intel so helpful, that it prompts Mr. Lodge to make some serious moves to avoid Jughead releasing a story that will hurt his plan.  Jughead is quickly becoming a dangerous threat to Mr. Lodge, but will Mr. Lodge take action against Jughead and FP or keep his plan moving quietly?

3

Cheryl’s father has a secret will.

Cheryl is surprised to find out about her father’s secret will, especially when she learns that a public reading will be held.  Everyone quickly discovers that half of Mr. Blossom’s assets will go to Cheryl and the other half will be split among anyone who can prove they have Blossom blood running through their veins.  Alice Cooper is beyond angry, when she realizes that this is the reason why Hal has now asked her for a divorce.  It also explains why Polly has decided to pay her family a visit as well, finally introducing them to her adorable twin babies.  While it’s clear that everyone wants their fair share of the money, Betty is surprised to find out that Chic does not want to have his blood tested, which immediately gets her spidey senses tingling.  After Cheryl delivers a heart-warming speech and tells the public that she wants “no more blood, no more madness, no more horror,” it’s like she unknowingly opened up a door to a new dangerous threat.  The spitting image of her father walks in the room, causing her to faint.  Don’t fret, Mr. Blossom is not back from the dead, but his identical twin brother, Uncle Claudius is here to claim his fortune as well.  While it initially seems like Uncle Claudius has good intentions and was merely trying to outrun the Blossom curse previously, he clearly has other motives, as he seems more than willing to comply with Penelope Blossom’s plan, putting our beloved Cheryl in great danger.

2

“CSI Nancy Drew.”

Betty has been having her suspicions about Chic for quite a while now, but has no solid evidence against him.  She enlists the help of Kevin to “webcam” with Chic and to probe him for information.  It seems like they are getting somewhere, but Kevin has second thoughts and feels bad about lying to Chic.  Even though Kevin is out, Betty takes matters into her own hands after hearing about Chic’s refusal to get his blood tested.  His suspicious actions continue when he makes side comments about wishing it was just him, Betty, and Alice again, after Polly has arrived with the twins, making Chic feel unwanted and overcrowded.  Chic gets what he wants after taking the twins out for a night stroll, when Polly announces that she is going to move to San Francisco.  While Polly may be out of the picture…literally, as he cuts her out of a photo, Betty is still on the case.  She sneaks into Chic’s bathroom and takes his dental floss to have it tested behind his back.  Betty is done with the lies and deception, as she confronts Chic and throws the results in his face.  She looks him straight in the eyes and convincingly says, “you’re not who you say you are so who are you?”  This is a question that we are all pondering right now for sure.  Since Chic is not Betty’s biological brother, what does he want with the Cooper family?  Is Betty in danger now that she has confronted Chic about his lie?

1

Archie and Veronica blur the lines between family and friendship.

When Mr. Lodge strategically suggests that Archie’s dad, Fred run for mayor, it seems like he is making Fred’s childhood dream into a reality.  However, Archie knows that being the mayor means becoming a “dog on a leash,” and he is not about to let his father get mixed up with this.  Veronica faces a difficult choice when her family asks her to convince Archie to get on board with this, which she clearly has mixed feelings about.  While both Archie and Veronica have trouble knowing which side to choose, Veronica jumps in to protect Archie from her father’s “apocalyptic wrath” and takes the blame for telling Jughead about Pop’s diner.  It’s apparent that Veronica loves Archie and will protect him, but will her father learn about her betrayal?  This is not the first time that Veronica has chosen to do the right thing over what her family wants.  After Mr. Lodge learns that Jughead is uncovering his plans to turn South Side High School into a prison, he quickly reveals this to Fred, hoping to keep him on their side.  The plan back-fires, however; when Fred announces he is out and wants no part of this.  This is not the future he wants for his town and for his son.  When he asks Archie to leave with him, Archie makes the bold decision to stay behind and hear what Mr. Lodge has to say.  He goes even further with his loyalty, when he signs a blood oath with Mr. Lodge and throws his notebook into the fire, destroying all of the secrets he has learned along the way.  Is Archie making the right choice or are his feelings for Veronica blinding him from the truth?  Mr. Lodge keeps things moving without showing any weakness, however; and Hermione Lodge announces that she is running for mayor with confidence and poise.  Now that all of the chess pieces appear to be in place, it looks like there is only one thing standing in Mr. Lodge’s way….Jughead Jones. 

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on Riverdale below.  Happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Riverdale” season 2 episode 14: “The Last House on the Left”

Happy Thursday TV fans!  After watching the CW’s Riverdale season 2 episode 14 last night, I am left with Mr. Lodge’s words of wisdom:  “you never ever hesitate” when it comes to protecting the ones you love.  While his words hold true for Archie especially, it’s often difficult for some of our other favorite characters to let their walls down and open up to one another, especially if they have a “ponytail and a secret.”  A dangerous combination for sure of sweetness and scandal, but what happens when we finally let others into our inner most thoughts?  Can we really trust them or are we in for a dangerous road of lies and deception?  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In last night’s episode, “Chapter Twenty-Seven:  The Hills Have Eyes,” Veronica, Archie, Betty, and Jughead are off to a weekend getaway at Veroncia’s family cabin on the lake, which leads to an eventful night where buried secrets reach the surface and dangerous threats lurk behind the corner.  Meanwhile, Cheryl deals with her own feelings of insecurity and leans on an unexpected new friend, Josie learns the truth about her mother, and Jughead gets a weird vibe from Chic.  My top 5 moments from Riverdale season 2 episode 14 are:

5

Weekend getaway.

Veronica is absolutely thrilled when her father suggests that she go to their family cabin for a relaxing weekend with her boyfriend and friends.  However, what Veronica doesn’t know is that her father, Mr. Lodge is trying to keep her away from Riverdale, as he begins some important business transactions.  Mr. Lodge does fill Archie in on the plan and lets him know that his right hand man, Andre will be there in case anything goes wrong.  Mr. Lodge is trusting Archie not to spill the beans to Veronica, which shows that Archie really has passed the test of loyalty with flying colors.  Is he up for lying to Veronica to win Mr. Lodge’s approval, however?  Our favorite couple, Bughead happily joins in on the fun and poor Cheryl is left out, as they aren’t really looking for a fifth wheel to spoil the weekend.  It seems like romance and relaxation is in the air, but not for long, as Mr. Lodge’s plan backfires when Veronica catches Archie talking to Andre in the woods.  Veronica is clearly hurt and angered by this betrayal, expecting much more from her boyfriend and father.

4

Josie learns about her mother’s relationship with Sheriff Keller.

After the Lodge family threatened to expose Mayor McCoy, she needed to make quick and sudden moves to protect her reputation and her family.  She comes clean to her daughter, Josie about her relationship with Kevin’s father, Sheriff Keller and gently explains that she will be getting a divorce.  Josie is completely crushed by this news and feels hurt and betrayed by her mother’s actions.  Not thinking clearly about consequences, Josie shares the news with Kevin who doesn’t know anything about his father’s affair.  Josie’s mother is upset by Josie’s cruelty as it was not her news to spread, but they come to an understanding when Josie reveals how hurt she was by this revelation.  At the end of the episode, the four sit down at Pop’s diner and it looks like they will be able to get through this after all, with some heartache along the way for sure, but at least it’s all out in the open now.

3

Jalapeno margaritas and hot tubs.

Veronica realizes that their weekend getaway will need some spicing up, especially after some dangerous secrets are revealed.  She whips up a batch of her margaritas and suggests “step 1:  clothes off, swimsuits on.”  While it seems like this love rhombus can relax somewhat, Veronica suggests that her and Jughead kiss to “level the playing field.”  While Archie and Betty are clearly not thrilled with this idea, they sit by quietly and let it happen because they do still feel guilty about their own secret kiss.  Even though Betty initially kept the kiss from Jughead, he is willing to forgive her and explains that he’s “not intimidated by a black hood prompted kiss.”  Betty shows her gratitude later on by bringing out her favorite black wig and her sexy side as a distraction, leading to some “aggressive hand holding” as Veronica would say.  While it seems like Bughead is ok for now, will the couple be able to survive more secrets and betrayal?  After all, Jughead still doesn’t know about Betty’s new and dangerous obsession with “webcamming.”

2

“Cheryl Bombshell.”

Cheryl is clearly disappointed and feeling left out when she is not invited along to the weekend getaway and is desperately trying to avoid her own home that her mother has “turned into a sex playground.”  While Cheryl makes some rash decisions as a result of this, it’s hard not to feel sympathetic towards her.  Cheryl calls Jughead and reveals the truth about Betty’s kiss with Archie that she thought was “like with tongue serious,” desperately trying to spoil their weekend since she is hurt.  Toni walks in on this and calls her out on it, but Cheryl puts her guard up immediately and reminds her exactly who she is:  “Hi I’m Cheryl Blossom, aka Cheryl Bombshell which means I need no reasons.  Feel free to tremble.”  Toni is not scared off by this, however; and continues to reach out to her, recognizing that she is in pain and in need of a friend.  After seeing Cheryl alone at the movies, Toni offers to sit with her.  Cheryl later admits to Toni that she “never cries at movies because real life is tragic enough.”  In this moment, Cheryl finally lets her guard down, revealing her vulnerability and past secrets to Toni.  Toni sympathetically listens to her and a budding friendship or relationship is forming at this point for sure.  In a beautiful moment, Toni simply tells Cheryl:  “you’re not loveless.  You’re not deviant.  You’re sensational.”  Toni’s uncomplicated honesty is getting through to Cheryl and it looks like their relationship will grow even further based on the previews revealed for next week’s episode.  Will Cheryl’s mother come between their relationship, however?

1

“It really was the last house on the left.”

While I initially caught the film reference from Jughead, I never guessed that this comparison would actually not be far off by the end of the episode.  Tensions begin to run high when Archie, Veronica, Betty, and Jughead learn that Mr. Lodge has bought Sunnyside Trailer Park, clearing the debt and evictions of everyone who lives there along with the Riverdale Register.  Jughead initially jumps to the conclusion that Mr. Lodge is buying their silence along with the free press in this action and underlying animosity comes screeching to the surface, as this puts a clear divide between Archie and Veronica and Betty and Jughead.  This argument is put on hold, however; when armed robbers break into the cabin, putting their lives in immediate danger.  Veronica doesn’t lose her cool and carefully presses the panic button when she reaches for her purse, signaling to Andre and the rest of her father’s security company that they are in desperate need of some assistance.  The robbers run off, but not before grabbing Veronica’s necklace, which prompts Archie to irrationally run after them.  Andre lets him know that he’ll take it from there and Archie walks away, but not before hearing a deafening gun shot that lets him know the threat is over for good.  While Archie clearly has mixed feelings about what happened because of his moral compass, Mr. Lodge reminds him that “you never ever hesitate,” which causes the memories of the Black Hood to come flooding back, invading his conscience and pulling at his unresolved guilt.  Will Archie be able to come to terms with what happened?  It looks like he will need to put his own feelings on hold for now, while Mr. Lodge continues to make strategic moves in Riverdale.   Of course this begs the question, what is his end game in all of this?

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on Riverdale below.  Happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

You can now follow me on Twitter as well! https://twitter.com/TV_Fanatic_Girl

 

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Riverdale” season 2 episode 12: “Bitter Sweet Symphony”

Happy Thursday TV fans!  After watching the CW’s Riverdale season 2 episode 12 last night, I’ve realized how dangerous it can be to live in the moment.  Decisions have consequences but it can be tempting to push them aside and worry about them later.  That is until they show up again, threatening everything that matters most to you.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In last night’s episode, “Chapter Twenty-Five:  The Wicked and the Divine,” Veronica announces her Catholic confirmation, which seems to be more of a substitute for the spotlight to be on her in front of an adoring crowd.  Penny is back and is looking to seek revenge on Jughead for how he treated her and Archie gets an exclusive invite to Mr. Lodge’s poker game.   Meanwhile, Betty tries out “webcamming,” Jughead comes clean to her about the past, and Alice begins cleaning…literally, to cover up something beyond appalling.  My top 5 moments from Riverdale season 2 episode 12 are:

5

Jughead comes clean to Betty about his past with Toni.

Jughead and Betty have pretty much avoided having a serious conversation since their breakup until now.  Whether it was too hard to talk about or they were concerned with hurting each other in the process, their breakup has been somewhat of a smooth ride.  However, when Jughead and Betty are face to face in the beginning of the episode, Jughead feels the need to tell her the truth about what happened with Toni.  He reveals that they did have a fleeting moment but that’s all it was.  Betty is offered the chance to reveal any secrets she may be keeping, but decides not to tell Jughead about her kiss with Archie or her new scandalous life of “webcamming.”  Jughead offers to “shield her from darkness,” but Betty has already gotten a taste for it and is spinning a complicated web of deception without realizing the consequences just yet.

4

Veronica’s Confirmation.

Veronica really knows how to do absolutely everything in style.  She turns her Catholic Confirmation into more of a Debutante ball.  Veronica wants to sing The Verve’s “Bitter Sweet Symphony,” at the event with Josie because it was from the film, “Cruel Intentions.”  I was excited for the reference but also a little saddened that this is the only way Veronica knows this epic song.  Either way, her performance with Josie is beautiful as Veronica walks down the aisle of the church in style, rejecting Satan and making her family proud.

3

Penny is back and seeks revenge on Jughead.

After Jughead turned Penny away from the Serpent’s gang and had her tattoo carved off her arm in a brutal way, it was no surprise that Penny would be back at some point.  She wants “blood for blood” and demands that Jughead be kicked out of the gang and that she be able to remove his own tattoo.  Jughead continues to make excuses but his father ominously reveals to him that he “will be the death of us.”  Jughead is always reacting and needs to take the time and patience he puts into his writing and apply it to everyday life.  Without realizing it, Jughead is taking a turn down a very dark path and it may be too late for him to find his way back unscathed.

2

Archie is invited to Mr. Lodge’s poker game.

Archie is thrilled when Mr. Lodge begins to take notice of him and actually commends him on what he did to Nick Sinclair.  He invites him to his poker game which Archie ambitiously accepts, knowing that some major players will be in town and it will be a great time to provide Agent Adams with the inside scoop.  However, when Archie learns that one of the players was found dead, he has second thoughts about coming clean about what he found out.  He lies to Agent Adams, which begs the question, is Archie in over his head?  Have his feelings for Veronica complicated his mission to bring down Mr. Lodge?

1

Betty and Alice Cooper embrace the darkness.

In the beginning of the episode, Betty is sporting her femme fatale black wig, turning away from the computer with newfound passion and excitement.  While her deception may initially seem harmless, Betty is not ready to abandon it just yet.  She begins keeping secrets from those she loves without even the slightest hesitation to suggest that she has no guilt or second thoughts about her actions.  While Chic opened the door to the darkness, inviting Betty in, she is making her own decisions.  Later in the episode, Betty and Jughead reunite and share a passionate kiss as Jughead tells her that “he wants all of her,” but what will he do when he finds out that he needs to share Betty with the rest of the cyber world?  Whether intentional or not, Chic has also brought out the darkness in his biological mother, Alice as well.  At the end of the episode, a man appears at the door looking for Chic and Betty walks into her mother cleaning up a mess of blood with the lifeless body spread across the floor.  Alice quickly tells her daughter to close the door, implying that she is not about to let her actions reach the surface either.  Who is responsible for the death of this stranger?  Is Alice covering up for Chic or did she do the unthinkable?

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on Riverdale below.  Happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl