Ranking the top 5 moments from “The Affair” season 5 episode 1 season premiere: “So What Happens Now?”

Happy Sunday TV fans!  After watching Showtime’s The Affair season 5 premiere, it seems like a lot has changed since we last checked in.  Time jumps are present, which may seem jarring and unfamiliar at first, but the opening to the final season of the show does a fantastic job of tugging at all of your emotions while making you cry your eyes out, but that’s part of its addictive and melodramatic charm.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the latest episode yet.  

In tonight’s episode, “501,” it looks like Noah’s book may be turned into a movie, bringing up some interesting questions for him.  Meanwhile, Helen attempts to cope with Vic’s deteriorating health and we time jump into the future to follow Alison and Cole’s adult daughter, Joanie.  My top 5 moments from The Affair season 5 episode 1 season premiere are:

5

“Why does Daniel leave his wife?”

Part one of the episode follows Noah and he is meeting with some kind of movie producer who is interested in his book.  The movie producer seems fascinated with the character based on Helen and brings up some questions of self reflection for Noah, asking him why the character left his wife.  Noah tries to explain that it is not really an easy answer and the movie producer seems to have an addiction for toxic relationships himself, but perhaps Noah needs to revisit his characters again so he doesn’t make the same mistakes in the present.

4

“You’re supposed to be on my side.”

After Vic was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in season 4, we now discover that he has tragically passed and Noah attends the funeral with Janelle.  Helen is doing her best to keep everything together, but she has to deal with Vic’s overbearing parents as well, who refuse to honor Vic’s final wishes for burial.  Helen has an outburst and rightfully so, which brings Noah into the mix.

While it seems like Noah has good intentions here, I’m not sure that Helen is ready to deal with him right now.  Noah is still somewhat of an outsider to his own family, discovering that Whitney is getting married through Vic’s recording, rather than hearing it from his own daughter.  Is it possible for him to finally make amends or will he simply accept his current circumstances?

3

“She’s a keeper.”

I was super excited to see that Janelle is still on the show, played brilliantly by Sanaa Lathan, but it doesn’t even seem like Noah notices her half the time.  Noah is clearly distracted by what is going on with Helen, but he has a strong, intelligent, and loyal woman right next to him.  Will Noah ever truly be satisfied or will he continue to chase after the unattainable?

I’m really hoping that he makes some kind of real decision in the final season, as I’m not sure that we have really seen too much growth for his character.  After everything he has been through, he is still ignoring the beautiful woman standing by his side to dive back into the drama and misery of what could have been.

2

“This is the age my mother died…”

Part two time jumps into the future, as we catch up with Joanie, played by True Blood’s Anna Paquin.  I have to say that I am impressed with that casting, as I could totally see her as Alison and Cole’s daughter and she is already channeling so much angst that we came to identify with Alison’s character.

So far we don’t know too much.  Joanie says that she misses her dad and is taking medication for her anxiety.  She has a husband and two daughters, but she fears that one of her daughters senses that she is adopted.  Joanie is also turning the same age Alison was when she died, which is clearly bringing up a lot of past issues for her. 

Based on the previews for the upcoming episodes, it looks like Joanie plans on following up on how Alison died and even decides to try and track down Ben Cruz, who we know is responsible for her mother’s death.  Will Joanie’s quest lead to answers or is she destined to follow her mother’s tragic fate?  I’m not sure, but I am very invested in this story-line.  Since we do not have Alison or Cole on the show any longer, Joanie is our last tie to this connection that I fell in love with so many seasons ago and I’m hoping everything can come full circle to bring us some justice for Alison.

1

“I had to be resilient.”

Part three of the episode is from Helen’s perspective.  We witness the moments leading up to Vic’s death and the birth of his child.  I’ve gone back and forth with my feelings on Helen as a character and I really started to genuinely like her in season 4.  In the season 5 premiere, Helen has finally reached her true moment in the spotlight.  In season 4, Joshua Jackson and Ruth Wilson had fantastic performances that still touch my mind, body, and soul, but Maura Tierney just stepped up to the plate.

She had me crying my eyes out with every single moment from her perspective.  Even though Helen is known for speaking her mind, those moments of silence, where you could just see the reality striking her felt so incredibly real and heartbreaking.  I was incredibly impressed by this performance and I can’t wait to see what happens next with Helen’s character.

Overall, I thought that the season premiere had a lot of promise and it will be interesting to see how it all ends.  Noah discussed the ending of his book in the beginning of the episode and I thought this was a clever way to remind the audience that perhaps the end of one of our favorite series will leave us with something unexpected as well.  Stay tuned!

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

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

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

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Ranking the top 5 moments from “SMILF” season 2 episode 10: “Where Do You Want To Escape To?”

Greetings TV viewers!  After watching Showtime’s SMILF season 2  episode 10, I realized that Tutu was absolutely right when she said that sometimes we need to leave a door open so that we can escape.  Whether that means finding a new adventure, a new life, or leaving the possibility open, sometimes we just need to take that leap of faith and fly…like a bird.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In tonight’s episode, “Single Mom Is Looking (for) Family,” Bridgette prepares for Larry’s birthday party, but has a lot on her mind.  Meanwhile, Tutu is haunted by her past and Nelson reveals a secret to Bridgette.  My top 5 moments from SMILF season 2 episode 10 series finale are:

5

“It’s gonna be me and my sister, Coll, living across the hall.”

Tutu has had a lot of trouble moving on in season 2, but her sister, Jackie, has been very supportive.  In this episode, we find out that Tutu does plan on moving out of the house and will be living with Jackie, which could be a step in the right direction.  Even though she may end up altering her plans to go somewhere else with Bridgette, it’s nice to see that Tutu has such strong connections in her life.  However, she also starts to think about the past when she thinks she sees her former boyfriend in front of her.  The image is not real, but it does bring up a lot of unresolved memories and feelings for Tutu.

4

“You’re like the white girl in the scary movie.”

I was excited that we got to see Eliza again in this episode.  After Bridgette confides in Eliza about her mixed feelings for Rafi, Eliza hilariously tells her, “You’re like the white girl in the scary movie that goes down to the basement and is like helllllo?”  She may have a point here, but Eliza always keeps the laughs coming.  She is ready to discover her path as a doctor and I think that the future is definitely bright for her.

3

“You just stepped over the boundary.”

Bridgette and Rafi are trying to get Larry to go to sleep and Rafi ends up kissing Bridgette.  So I have been shipping these two together for quite some time, but Rafi is still engaged to Nelson and I’m not sure that he has his life back on track just yet.  Even though this kiss was swoon-worthy for sure, it doesn’t look like it is the right time for these two to get back together with everything else going on, but I sort of like the idea of them bumping into each other when they are 60 and overweight.  Either way, I’m glad that we got to touch on this before the end of the series, as the connection between these two has always been there for me.

2

“I will help you.”

Nelson confides in Bridgette and tells her that she is pregnant, which is big news, but it looks like Rafi doesn’t know how to process this, as they discover that he has relapsed.  In a touching moment, Bridgette tells Nelson that she will help her, which really says so much about Bridgette’s character.  She may be far from perfect, but she has a big heart and always tries to do what is right.  After confronting Rafi about his drug addiction, Rafi does not want to go to rehab and Nelson seems ready to support him in meetings.  However, Bridgette recognizes that she has been down this very same road before.  Bridgette’s main concern is for Larry, but it looks like she has just had a major epiphany about her life.

1

“I just want to be a f*cking person.”

Later on, we end the series with Bridgette and Tutu together, talking about their mistakes and their hopes for the future.  Tutu reveals that she has another daughter that she gave up for adoption and Bridgette tells Tutu that she feels like she’s “living someone else’s life.”  In a beautiful moment, the bird Bridgette tried to help flies out the window, showing them the way.  Where will they escape to?  New York?  Ireland?  I’m not sure, but the future is open for both Bridgette and Tutu and it looks like they will begin discovering it together, which was a clever way to end the show.  Even though I am disappointed that we will not see a third season, I think that this show was really unique and different and the characters were so real and resonating.  We don’t always have all the answers, but that doesn’t mean that we can’t take things one day at a time and figure them out together.

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and comments on SMILF below. 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

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Ranking the top 5 moments from “SMILF” season 2 episode 9: “The Cowboy Code”

Greetings TV viewers!  After watching Showtime’s SMILF season 2 episode 9, I entered a fantasy world that seemed like it was from the past, but we quickly learned that many of the “cowboys” were women and that the men were wearing make-up and crying in churches, allowing Bridgette and her friends the chance to make things right and set an example.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In tonight’s episode, “Single Mom Is Losing Faith,” Bridgette’s fun fantasy becomes a reality…or at least for the entire episode, as we enter an old cowboy movie premise, but quickly learn that women are leading the way, trying to make a difference in the west.  My top 5 moments from the SMILF season 2 episode 9 are:

5

“I know you!”

“You’re SMILF!”  Well sure, Bridgette Bird may be known as “SMILF” in these parts, but she quickly corrects the man she encounters when she tells him that it stands for “Single Mom Is Losing Faith.”  Throughout the series, we have gotten some fun glimpses into Bridgette’s fantasy world, but this one looks like it will last for the entire episode, which was fun for sure.  It looks like Bridgette is a bad-ass in this world and everyone better think twice about crossing her.

4

“Those are fightin words!”

As the episode continues, we learn that Nelson is the sheriff in town and has been laying down the law and also imposing some “cowboy taxes” on Bridgette.  The tension between these two is still apparent in this fantasy world, as Bridgette says, “You’re used to my sloppy seconds, aren’t you?”  Bridgette is trying to save up money to send Larry to the city school…or pre-school, so she needs to save every penny, but Sheriff Nelson is not making things easy for her.  Later on, the clash between these two continues, as Bridgette faces off against Nelson, only to get shot in the foot.  Whoops!  While this was a fun way to continue the love triangle issue going on, we only have one more episode so I’m not sure if we will find out who Rafi will wind up with.  Let’s hope so!

3

“Shame to waste that pretty voice on an empty audience.”

Bridgette goes off to find Rafi and discovers him singing and crying in a church while dressed up with make-up.  Bridgette hilariously bosses Rafi around and tells him not to cry because it will “ruin your pretty face.”  Once Bridgette finds out that Mr. Daddy is collecting too much interest on Rafi’s debt, she decides to take matters into her own hands.

2

“I used to be the fastest gun in the west.”

Apparently Ally also used to be the “humblest person in the west” as well, which is absolutely hilarious.  Ally makes a special guest appearance, but she really is the same old Ally, going on and on about her Mr. Daddy issues and passing judgment everywhere she goes.  Ally always brings some laughs to the table so it was really fun to have her in this episode.

1

“Time’s up!”

Later on, when Bridgette is playing cards, Larry decides to give up, but Bridgette reminds him that they need to stick by the “cowboy code.”  Bridgette explains that they don’t give up in this family and has a moment of clarity and inspiration.  She says, “I’m a bird…you’re a bird.  No cage ensnares us!”  Bridgette decides to take the fight to Mr. Daddy, as our favorite female characters line up for a gun fight.  Mr. Daddy is played by the wonderful, Clark Gregg, and brings us some laughs as well.  Aunt Jackie opens fire to break the tension and somehow doesn’t know how this happens, but Bridgette and the others still save the day in the nick of time thanks to Ally’s impressive shooting.  Only one episode left!  Stay tuned for more SMILF fun!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and comments on SMILF below. 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

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

 

 

Ranking the top 5 moments from “SMILF” season 2 episode 8: “Less Is More”

Greetings TV viewers!  After watching Showtime’s SMILF season 2  episode 8, I realized that change is never easy to accept.  Whether you are looking to start a new chapter in your life or saying goodbye to your past, there is always a moment where everything feels uncertain.  It’s up to us to keep moving forward, but some days are easier than others.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In tonight’s episode, “Sex Makes It Less Formal,” Bridgette throws Rafi a bachelor party.  Meanwhile, Nelson’s mother comes to visit and Tutu discovers an important letter.  My top 5 moments from the SMILF season 2 episode 8 are:

5

“I used Ally’s credit card.”

In the beginning of the episode, Bridgette is at a sex store, shopping for props for Rafi’s bachelor party.  I immediately started to wonder where she got the money for all of this, but things started to make a lot more sense when she mentioned using Ally’s credit card.  Bridgette realizes that she needs to return this and that perhaps this is becoming a problem.  Either way, Bridgette is ready to pull out all the stops for Rafi, including ordering a stripper for him named Ember, who ends up being Bridgette’s old friend, Jill.  After all, Rafi apparently loves strippers and we even learn that his mom was one.  Maybe this wasn’t the best idea?

4

“You look just like me!”

Nelson is feeling stressed out about her mother’s visit.  Nelson’s mother is played by the amazing Melanie Griffith, who puts quite a bit of pressure on Nelson.  After looking at Nelson’s beautiful apartment, she comments that sometimes “less is more,” which reveals that her mother may be a lot to handle.  After her mother over shares about her orgasms, Nelson decides to try on her wedding gown, but has a panic attack when she can’t get the dress off of her, causing her to soak away her troubles in the bathtub, with her wedding dress still on.  Are these normal wedding day jitters or is there something else behind Nelson’s anxiety?  We’ll have to wait and find out, but I’m hoping this gets resolved before the end of the series.

3

“Make your next chapter all for you.”

Tutu is having a tough time dealing with life after Joe, as she tells her sister that she is not moving.  Tutu begins surrounding herself with depressing things and even looks up different ways that she could potentially die.  Later on, her sister discovers a letter from Joe in their suitcase and Tutu gets the chance to hear some last thoughts from Joe, which gives her a sense of closure and comfort.  I thought that this was a really important and touching moment for Tutu, as Joe clearly wants her to find her way, but promises that he will always be looking out for her.

2

“Maybe we need a warm up act.”

After finding the receipt for Nelson’s diamond ring, Bridgette is beyond upset, as she could use the money he spent on that for Larry’s preschool.  Bridgette has been drinking quite a bit at the bachelor party and decides to give everyone a show before the stripper arrives.  Bridgette starts out having fun, but confronts Rafi about it, revealing how hurt she is by this.  Maybe it wasn’t the best idea to throw a bachelor party for your ex-boyfriend though?

1

“We’ve seen each other at our worst.”

The most significant moment of the episode for me was when Bridgette tells Rafi that they have seen each other at their worst and never gave up on one another.  She also tells Rafi that he is a great Dad, which clearly means a lot to him.  Later on, Rafi tells Bridgette that he wants to her to go to their wedding, which is a step in the right direction.  However, Bridgette recognizes that this is where she needs to say goodbye to Rafi and move on, which is not easy for her to do.  I am still ultimately shipping Bridgette and Rafi, but I’m not sure if we will get this wrapped up within the last two episodes.  Fingers crossed!  Stay tuned for more SMILF fun!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and comments on SMILF below. 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 Feb 2019

The Search for Alice is available here!

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

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

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

Ranking the top 5 moments from “SMILF” season 2 episode 7: “You’re My Girl”

Greetings TV viewers!  After watching Showtime’s SMILF season 2  episode 7, I realized that true friendship is when you no longer consider that person your friend and instead, they become family.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In tonight’s episode, “Smile More If Lying Fails,” Bridgette and Larry get their hair done and are invited to Eliza’s party.  Meanwhile, Rafi and Nelson share their happy news and Bridgette shows up for her date two weeks late.  My top 5 moments from the SMILF season 2 episode 7 are:

5

“Do you like your hair?  No.”

In the beginning of the episode, the waitress leaves Bridgette a note saying that she does hair, in case she wants to take Larry.  Bridgette asks Larry if he likes his hair and he hilariously says, “No.”  Straight and to the point, Larry!  Larry is scared when he is getting his hair done so Bridgette decides to get her hair done too.  However, I’m not sure that identical cornrows was the right decision.

4

“Larry we gotta go get some weed.”

Eliza is stressing out at her party and calls Bridgette up in a panic to come over and get her some weed.  Bridgette hilariously announces this to Larry, as they head over to Tutu’s together.  It’s always fun seeing what Tutu and her sister are up to, but Bridgette tries to stick to the mission as much as possible with Larry by her side.

3

“A magical Puerto Rican wedding…I can’t wait.”

Rafi and Nelson announce that they are getting married and Bridgette seems genuinely happy for them.  However, she quickly discovers that Larry is invited to the wedding, but she is not, which makes Bridgette feel some type of way.  I felt really bad for Bridgette in this moment, as she realizes that her relationship with Rafi has certainly changed, now learning that he changed her name in his phone to just “Bridgette Bird.”  Is there any hope for these two?  I’m still hoping so!

2

“I’m here for our date…you’re two weeks late.”

Bridgette is still feeling upset about Rafi’s announcement and decides to call up the tattoo artist she stood up.  He seems eager to see her and immediately skips dinner to initiate sex, but Bridgette is less than enthused about his over-aggressive approach.  Bridgette hilariously begins texting Eliza during the act, saying that the sex is so bad, only she sends it to her date by mistake.  Bridgette leaves after an awkward goodbye, realizing that perhaps this was not what she needed after all.

1

“You’re my girl.”

At the end of the episode, Bridgette meets up with Eliza and confides in her about her date and about Rafi’s announcement.  Eliza proves to be Bridgette’s real friend, as she has her back and tells her that she is her cousin.  I love the friendship between these two, which is far from perfect, but they both support each other, which is important.  I was so disappointed to hear that SMILF has been canceled, but I’m looking forward to the remaining episodes of the series.  Let’s just hope it doesn’t end on a major cliffhanger!  Stay tuned for more SMILF fun!

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

**Goodreads Giveaway currently going on for The Search for Alice (100 copies available) from 2/21/19-3/14/19. Enter Goodreads Giveaway Here!

**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 Feb 2019

The Search for Alice is available here!

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

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Ranking the top 5 moments from “Shameless” season 9 episode 14: “Don’t Ever Look Back”

Happy Sunday TV fans!  After watching Showtime’s Shameless season 9 episode 14 season finale, I realized that we sometimes get a second chance, even after we have hit rock bottom.  So what do we do with it?  Do we play it safe or do we travel into the unknown?  The decision is never easy, but all we can do is try and embrace the future.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In tonight’s episode, “Found,” Fiona makes a huge decision that will impact everyone around her.  Meanwhile, Liam moves out, Carl and Debbie team up, and Frank burdens everyone with his recovery.  My top 5 moments from Shameless season 9 episode 14 season finale are:

5

“I moved out.”

During the episode, Liam decides to move out of the Gallagher house for good.  Debbie tries to get him to come back home, but Liam explains that he doesn’t want to be a Gallagher anymore and even Carl asks, “Is that an option?”  Debbie refuses to give up and Liam presents her with a list of demands of 46 items that will need to be addressed in order for him to consider moving home, as Liam is looking to embrace his culture in a stable environment.  Good for you, Liam!

4

“I’m a man again!”

Kev is thrilled to be “a man again” and even starts thinking about renting himself out as Jesus.  V is skeptical, but Kev has endless possibilities, including “A Jesus Stripper” and “Last Supper Jesus.”  It looks like Kev has embraced this new role, but someone should probably tell him that “Bar Mitzvah Jesus” may not go over that well…

3

“Now that’s a woman!”

In the beginning of the episode, Carl and Debbie team up to get some revenge on Kelly for breaking their hearts, as they go into full stealth mode to mess up her truck.  Kelly is furious and confronts Debbie, as we hilariously see that Carl spray painted “heart beaker” instead of “heart breaker.”  Debbie informs Kelly that she knows how to spell, but takes this moment to stand up for her brother, as she tells Kelly that she really hurt her brother and that he feels rejected.  Carl is ready to give up on school and settle for working in fast food, but we know he is worth so much more than that.  Kelly refuses to accept this and storms into “Captain Bob’s” and zip ties Carl and takes him out of there, telling his boss that he quits.  Kelly really is one hell of a woman, as she tells Carl to man up and kisses him, suggesting that there is hope for these two to get back together.  Yay!

2

“You just love them.”

Tami decides to move forward with her pregnancy after getting her test results back from the doctor.  Lip wants to be a father, but Tami thinks that he will be a terrible one.  In a touching moment, Lip gets some advice from Kev, who tells him that you just love them, which is actually really great advice.  I personally think that Lip will be an excellent father, especially after seeing how good he was with Xan, but it will definitely be an adventure for sure.

1

“I’m scared.”

After receiving the $100,000 check from Max, Fiona realizes that she now has a second chance.  Fiona goes to visit Ian in prison and he tells her to go because she deserves it.  Fiona is scared, but Ian reminds her, “Don’t ever look back.”  Ian will always be there to love and support her, along with the rest of her family, but Fiona recognizes that it is time to start her life somewhere else.  Lip wants to throw Fiona a goodbye party, but she leaves before it, realizing that she may not be able to go if she stays for that.  Fiona recognizes that it is now or never and takes that leap of faith to get on the plane and move forward toward the unknown.  She loves her family and even leaves Deb a check for $50,000 and reminds Frank that she did it all, as he tries to thank her for helping over the years.  It’s clearly difficult for Frank to admit this and he probably has his own feelings about his oldest daughter leaving, but Fiona takes the high road and doesn’t look back.  We’re proud of you, Fiona Gallagher!

I have to say that I definitely shed a few tears at the end of the episode.  I will absolutely miss Emmy Rossum on the show and I’m not sure that it will be the same without her, but we definitely still have a lot of Gallagher fun to keep us entertained.  Fiona was always the heart and soul of the show for me and I feel like I just said goodbye to my best friend when she got on the plane.  You’ll never be replaced, Fiona, and I hope that you get your chance at a happily ever after!  Stay tuned!

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

**Goodreads Giveaway currently going on for The Search for Alice (100 copies available) from 2/21/19-3/14/19. Enter Goodreads Giveaway Here!

**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 Feb 2019

The Search for Alice 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!

Ranking the top 5 moments from “SMILF” season 2 episode 6: “Free Money, Free Money, Free Money!”

Greetings TV viewers!  After watching Showtime’s SMILF season 2 episode 6, I realized that sometimes we just need one person to truly believe in us.  That person may not always be right, but just knowing that he or she is in your corner can make a world of difference.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In tonight’s episode, “Should Mothers Incur Loss Financially?” Bridgette tries to get a job, as the bills begin to pile up all around her.  Meanwhile, Tutu is in for a shocking discovery and Rafi and Nelson have an argument.  My top 5 moments from the SMILF season 2 episode 6 are:

5

“I want a pony.  Me too.”

In the beginning of the episode, we get to witness Bridgette’s long list of bills, as she desperately tries to find full time employment.  Bridgette even goes on an interview and seems to hit it off with the potential employer, but it doesn’t end up working out after she notices that Bridgette has a child.  Bridgette is prepared to sacrifice time with Larry to support him and even asks him what he would like to buy with their money in the future.  Larry responds with the only logical answer:  a pony!

4

“What are you, a welfare queen?”

After Bridgette applies for SNAP benefits, she is excited to try out her food stamps at the grocery store, only she learns that it does not apply to many of the purchases she actually needs.  Tutu is upset that Bridgette went this route and hilariously asks her if she is a welfare queen, which transitions us into a hilarious clip of Bridgette being the ultimate welfare queen in one of her daydreams.  I have to say that I loved the costume!  Bridgette then gets into an argument with Tutu after she refuses to give her the money to pay for the groceries, as Bridgette tells her that she is a terrible mother and storms out.

3

“I’m just dropping off the keys…”

Rafi drives Bridgette to Ally’s house to drop off the keys, but Bridgette discovers that no one is home and takes this opportunity to go on her own shopping spree in Ally’s house.  She takes groceries and a watch, among other things.  Bridgette realizes that it is wrong to steal from Ally, even though she probably won’t notice that any of the stuff is missing, but this scene was extremely comical to watch.

2

“I’ll wash your hair tonight if you want.”

We witness an argument between Rafi and Nelson, as Nelson begins to get frustrated since she is paying for all of their bills.  Nelson supports Rafi and believes in him, but she gets angry when he doesn’t wait for the plumber.  After Rafi confides in Bridgette, she gives him some really great advice and reminds him that he and Nelson are great together and that she is there for him every step of the way.  In a sweet moment, Rafi brings jugs of water home and offers to wash Nelson’s hair.  He then proposes to her and it looks like these two might have a happily ever after.  However, I am still leaning toward Rafi and Bridgette in the end.

1

“How about we make a bet?”

At the end of the episode, Bridgette and Tutu come together, as they both have a lot going on.  Tutu suggests that they make a bet and says that Bridgette will find her dream job within a year and will take any job she can get in the meantime.  Bridgette tells Tutu that she will find her own house to buy since Joe’s son is insisting on selling the house she has grown to love over the years.  Even though Bridgette and Tutu often argue, they love each other and this bet proves that they will continue to support one another as much as they can.  Stay tuned for more SMILF fun!

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

**Goodreads Giveaway currently going on for The Search for Alice (100 copies available) from 2/21/19-3/14/19. Enter Goodreads Giveaway Here!

**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 Feb 2019

The Search for Alice is available here!

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!

Ranking the top 5 moments from “SMILF” season 2 episode 5: “Single Mom in Love Forever”

Greetings TV viewers!  After watching Showtime’s SMILF season 2 episode 5, I realized that preparing for parenthood is never easy and things don’t always go according to plan.  But it’s all worth it in the end.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In tonight’s episode, “Single Mom in Love Forever,” we travel back to 2014, as Bridgette and Rafi prepare for parenthood.  Meanwhile, we finally understand where Tutu’s nickname comes from and also discover Bridgette’s inspiration for her son’s name.  My top 5 moments from the SMILF season 2 episode 5 are:

5

“You cannot have a baby with that idiot.”

In the beginning of the episode, Tutu makes her feelings known right away, as she reacts to the news that Bridgette is pregnant.  Even though Tutu is not Rafi’s biggest fan, she wants to support her daughter and do right by her.  Rafi tries to bond with Tutu in several moments, but Tutu is still disappointed in some of her daughter’s decisions.  That doesn’t mean that she will not be there for them, however.

4

“We’re not naming our kid after Hitler.”

One of the funniest moments of the episode is when Rafi suggests that they name their son, Adolfo.  Bridgette explains that adding an “o” to a name doesn’t really help and uses the example, “Hitlero,” to further her argument.  At this point, they haven’t decided on a name just yet, but Bridgette clearly wants it to mean something special.

3

“I know how much you love me.”

Rafi proposes to Bridgette when he finds out that she is pregnant and they have plans to get married.  However, they are not without issues, as we learn that Rafi kisses someone else, which rubs Bridgette the wrong way.  Bridgette knows how much Rafi loves her and Rafi is extremely excited to be a father, but she ends up telling him that she can’t marry him while in labor.  However, I still see some sparks between these two in present day, so maybe they are finally ready to give it another try?  We’ll have to wait and see.

2

“You’re in labor right here in a park.”

Bridgette has been preparing for a home birth, but Tutu reminds her that there are no life saving devices at home and tries to get her to go to the hospital.  Bridgette is extremely determined to have a home birth, which is painful to watch.  While I understand her wanting to follow through with her plan, I think that maybe it would have been a good idea to go to the hospital after all, but at least everything worked out in the end.

1

“See someone was giving away Larry Bird T-Shirts.”

After walking around while in labor, Bridgette comes across a Larry Bird T-Shirt.  She initially tries to steal it, but the woman selling it ultimately tells her she can have it.  This inspires Larry’s name, as she gives birth to her son in this very shirt.  Bridgette, Rafi, and Tutu’s reaction to Larry’s arrival is sweet and heartwarming.  Tutu requests to be called “Tutu” because it is Hawaiian for Grandma and she always thought of herself as Hawaiian.  I guess that’s as good a reason as any.  Either way, this episode gave us the chance to see Bridgette’s past, which was important and revealing.  Stay tuned for more SMILF fun!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts on SMILF 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

**Goodreads Giveaway currently going on for The Search for Alice (100 copies available) from 2/21/19-3/14/19. Enter Goodreads Giveaway Here!

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!

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Shameless” season 9 episode 12: “You’ll Know the Bottom When You Hit It”

Happy Sunday TV fans!  After watching Showtime’s Shameless season 9 episode 12, I realized that “people do crazy shit when the power goes out.”  However,  Frank reminded us that “you just gotta stay creative.”  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In tonight’s episode, “You’ll Know the Bottom When You Hit It,” Frank uses the city blackout to make a quick profit and decides to show Fiona the ropes.  Meanwhile, Lip says goodbye to Xan, Debbie and Carl continue fighting over Kelly, and Kev deals with a “ticking time ball.”  My top 5 moments from Shameless season 9 episode 12 are:

5

“Nobody likes a clinger.”

In this episode, Carl feels that Kelly is being distant, but he becomes almost obsessive when he finds out that Debbie is constantly texting her.  This leads to an ongoing fight over Kelly’s affection, as both Gallagher siblings seem unwilling to give up.  Later in the episode, Kelly breaks up with Carl for being too clingy, but does this mean that she will explore some potential feelings for Debbie?  I’m thinking so, based on the preview for next week’s episode.  Maybe Carl’s former girlfriend, Kassidi, can come back from the dead?  Or maybe she’s not really dead?  You never know on Shameless.

4

“She needs to hit rock bottom.”

Lip has a lot going on in this episode, as Xan exits in the beginning, but not before giving Lip a friendship bracelet she made him, which is adorable.  Later on, Tami finally has a talk with Lip and they decide that they are going to give parenthood a try, which I am so excited about.  While they admit that they don’t know what the future holds for them, I really think that Lip will make a great father and will support his child no matter what.  This is an important step in Lip’s life and it looks like things are finally coming together for him.  However, Lip is still extremely worried about Fiona and even throws out her stuff to make his point.  Later on, Lip has an important talk with V, explaining that if she is really Fiona’s friend; she won’t let her stay with her.  Lip understands that Fiona needs to truly hit rock bottom so that she can finally get some help.  It’s not always easy to turn your back on someone you love, but sometimes it is necessary to save them.

3

“Gallagher’s Blackout Supply.”

The entire city is dealing with a blackout and no one is happy about it…except Frank.  Frank is known for his get-rich-quick schemes and he takes full advantage here, as he has been preparing for a possible blackout for quite some time.  Frank officially welcomes Fiona to the “ranks of the unemployed” and decides to show his daughter the ropes.  They negotiate over her cut and Fiona explains that “Frank’s Blackout Supply” will be renamed “Gallagher’s Blackout Supply,” which definitely has a better ring to it.  Fiona is actually really “creative” with her sales skills and the two of them have a line down the block, as they sell ice, batteries, flashlights and all other necessities during this time of panic.  Sure, their prices may be a little outrageous, but they absolutely have a demand for their products.

2

“We found the true power of the South Side.”

It seems like everyone is taking Frank’s advice in this episode about being creative, as Kev decides to have a cookout at The Alibi so that the steaks V purchased don’t go bad.  It seems like a great idea and a lot of the neighbors show up, but they also learn that the rest of Chicago got their power back.  Fiona starts a protest march for the South Siders, which consists of some catchy slogans such as:  “What the f*ck Chicago?  Should’ve had power hours ago” and “South Side is where it’s at.  We’ll f*ck you up with a baseball bat.”  Power is finally restored and everyone celebrates at The Alibi, as Kev takes a minute to comment on how everyone came together and had a great day.

1

“We get exactly what we deserve.”

Fiona’s drinking has gotten worse and even Frank tries to intervene at this point, as he tries to tell Fiona that she is a bad drunk, but she doesn’t want to hear it.  Later on, when everyone is celebrating at The Alibi, Fiona still can’t be happy and she takes it out on everyone there.  V makes a strong decision by informing Fiona that she cannot stay with her and Fiona says she understands.  Fiona ends up sleeping in her abandoned apartment building and wakes up, recovering from her drinking.

As Fiona walks down the stairs, she comes across an old copy of “Business Reviewer” magazine addressed to her and finally hits rock bottom, realizing that she no longer recognizes the girl who used to subscribe to that magazine.  The girl who was so motivated and talented, but she is still in there somewhere, as we finally get a glimmer of hope.  Fiona ends up joining Lip at a meeting at the end of the episode.  They exchange glances, but don’t say anything, which is extremely powerful.  It looks like our girl, Fiona, is finally going to get the help she needs.  It’s about time.

Overall, this was one of the best episodes I have seen in a long time.  There was as lot of fun throughout it, but my heart went out to Fiona.  Emmy Rossum’s performance was so real and heartbreaking and I still don’t know how I will be able to deal with her exiting the show, but this episode truly touched me.  Stay tuned!

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

**I 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

**Goodreads Giveaway currently going on for The Search for Alice (100 copies available) from 2/21/19-3/14/19. Enter Goodreads Giveaway Here!

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!

Ranking the top 5 moments from “SMILF” season 2 episode 4: “It Only Has To Work Once”

Greetings TV viewers!  After watching Showtime’s SMILF season 2, episode 4, I realized that “there’s something about Bridgette Bird.”  Sure, she may be a little quirky, but it’s important that she recognizes who she is and stays true to herself.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In tonight’s episode, “So Maybe I Look Feminine,” Bridgette has a busy day planned, as she tries to tackle her to-do list.  Meanwhile, Nelson invites Bridgette to the salon, which leads to some temptation and fantasy along the way.  My top 5 moments from SMILF season 2 episode 4 are:

5

“You’re the one that should shush.”

In the beginning of the episode, Rafi and Nelson arrive at Bridgette’s apartment to pick Larry up for a fun weekend.  Bridgette is thrown off when Nelson shushes Larry while on the phone.  Bridgette is very protective of Larry and she wants him to feel loved wherever he goes, but she chooses not to confront Nelson in this very moment.  However, she does point out to herself that Nelson is the one that should really shush.

4

“Rollin with the homies…”

After trying to tackle her to-do list, Bridgette takes Nelson up on her offer and joins her and her friend at the salon.  After flipping through some hairstyle choices a la Britney Spears and Brittany Murphy, Nelson decides she will be going with the Brittany Murphy look and her and her friend break out into a tear-filled “rollin with the homies” to honor Brittany’s classic performance in one of my favorite films of all time, Clueless

3

“I think you should consider going blonde.”

While waiting for her stylist, Bridgette meets a bride to be, played by Ari Graynor, and the two bond over some eyeliner tips.  The woman suggests that Bridgette goes blonde, which allows us to see Bridgette’s fantasy world complete with an adorable polka dot ensemble, while watching a polo match.  Bridgette actually looks really fabulous with her blonde hair, but we quickly learn that it has somehow transformed her entire life, which I’m not sure is really possible, but sometimes we all need a change in our look here and there.

2

“Is that Kevin Bacon on a horse?”

I mean, Bridgette’s fantasy would not be complete without Kevin Bacon showing up on a horse.  After all, Hollow Man is her favorite film.  Later on, Bridgette crosses paths with Kevin Bacon, who offers to “finger bang” her.  However, he does not want to do this in front of his horse, Peggy, named after Pegasus.  After the act is complete, Kevin asks Bridgette to dinner, who is beyond thrilled to accept.

1

“I missed you today.”

After the encounter with Kevin, Bridgette confronts Nelson about shushing Larry and Ari Graynor’s character ends up getting brutally hit in the face with a polo ball.  There is blood everywhere and Bridgette repeatedly asks, “Will someone help her?”  Bridgette spots a mannequin dressed like her former self in a t-shirt and shorts with brown hair, reminding her who she really is.  This moment snaps Bridgette back to reality, as she is now staring in the mirror at her messy brown hair and makes the decision not to go to the salon.  Bridgette is beyond thrilled to see Larry return, reminding her what’s truly important to her.  Stay tuned for more SMILF fun!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts on SMILF 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

**Goodreads Giveaway currently going on for The Search for Alice (100 copies available) from 2/21/19-3/14/19. Enter Goodreads Giveaway Here!

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!