Category: TV Reviews

TV Reviews

TV Review: Season 1 of NBC’S ‘THE VILLAGE’

by KristinLeave a Comment on TV Review: Season 1 of NBC’S ‘THE VILLAGE’

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Ok, people. I just have to say that NBC is killing it right now with their line-up! THIS IS US is one of the best drama shows I’ve ever seen, and THE VILLAGE is right on its heels (only because there’s only one season so far)! On the surface, it’s east to compare the two against each other, but the storylines go deeper than just superficial (metaphorical) wounds. After watching the first season of THE VILLAGE, I can easily say that it stands on its own two feet. I’m just hoping that it gets renewed for another season!

THE VILLAGE focuses on several groups of people living in a condo building in Brooklyn. Each little group in the building has their own storyline, but, individually, they’re all intertwined with each other in some way or another.

You have Sarah, a nurse who lives with her teenage daughter, Katie. Katie discovers she’s pregnant and is contemplating the idea of adoption. Based on what Sarah has told her, she’s lived her life believing that her father, a firefighter during 9/11, was killed in action. She has no idea that their new neighbor, Nick, is actually her father. Throughout the season, Sarah and Nick try to navigate through their own past and how to tell Katie the truth. Nick is also a veteran who is trying to find his way through his post-war PTSD.

Ava is an Iranian refugee who faces deportation and separation from her young son. You get to see how bonded the residents of The Village truly are when they all rally around her during this time. Ava has fallen for another resident, Ben, who is a police officer in NYC. It is revealed that, while Ben is willing to marry Ava to keep her in the U.S., he is still married to the mother of his deceased son.

Ron is the super of The Village building and an owner of a bar called Smalls. He’s married to Patricia, a social worker who is dealing with a relapsed cancer diagnosis. They are the “parents” to everyone in the building and often put their own struggles aside to help everyone else.

Gabe is a law student trying to stay out of the shadow of his power-hungry father. His grandfather, Enzo, lives in a nursing home, but comes to live with Gabe in The Village. Enzo is still mourning his late wife until he meets a new woman he quickly falls in love with. Gabe and Enzo have the most adorable relationship with each other throughout the entire season.

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With all of their individual storylines, they all seem to come together to support each other through all of their struggles. Truth be told, I’m a sucker for those moments. When someone is struggling with something and they have a group of people that are willing to drop everything to be there for them. I literally just cried my way through the entire season 1 finale, and I highly recommend that you check this show out if you haven’t already. The writing is fantastic, the cast is extremely diverse (with not one weak link) and it’s just so easy to connect with. Shout out to Grace Van Dien, who plays Katie, for a stellar performance throughout the season. Everyone was great, but Van Dien literally killed it every single time!

One of my favorite lines from the finale was when Gabe encourages Enzo to propose to his new love, Gwendolina. Enzo struggles with the idea of proposing with the ring that belonged to his late wife, but Gabe insists and says, “I think she’d want this ring on any hand that’s holding yours.” Seriously?!?!?! How could you not watch a show that delivers lines like that one?? Do yourself a favor and check this out. You can also join me in crossing my fingers that this gets renewed!

 

 

TV, TV Reviews

TV Review: THE HAUNTING OF HILL HOUSE | Season 1 Available on Netflix

by KristinLeave a Comment on TV Review: THE HAUNTING OF HILL HOUSE | Season 1 Available on Netflix

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Ho. Ly. Shitballs. Seriously.

I know, I’m late to the party on this one, but better late than never always applies, right?? I’m not a huge horror fan, so I tried to avoid this one like the plague. I’d watched the trailer and part of me wanted to watch the show, but the other part of me didn’t want to have nightmares for the next week, so I said NOPE!

BUT, here I am. After finally giving in and watching it over the last few days, I’m here to tell you that if you haven’t watched this yet . . . DO IT!! What a great show! Everything from the story to the cast (both in past and present) to the directing to the effects was phenomenal. I was terrified, but also could not stop watching even when that one part of me really wanted to.

SYNOPSIS: Flashing between past and present, a fractured family confronts haunting memories of their old home and the terrifying events that drove them from it. 

As the synopsis mentions, Netflix’s THE HAUNTING OF HILL HOUSE follows the Crain family in two separate timelines. The first is the family of seven moving into Hill House as Hugh and Olivia Crain attempt to flip and sell it. The family begins to experience paranormal activity that seems to increase the longer they remain in the house. The second timeline shows the family, now adults, still attempting to deal with the aftermath of what transpired during their time at Hill House as children. Both timelines weave in and out together in a way that works perfectly with each episode’s progression.

The show is loosely based on the novel of the same name by Shirley Jackson. Word to the wise . . . do not watch the show and then read the book trying to get answers you may not have received on the show! I’m only on the third chapter of the book, but these are two completely different situations. The book focuses on random people being invited to stay at Hill House, whereas the Netflix Original show focuses on the aspect of family and how these terrifying, traumatic events can cause a ripple in the lives of those who experience them.

Fun Fact: While watching episode 8, “Witness Marks,” one of the scariest scenes for me, personally, literally took my breath away. Maybe 5 minutes after that scene, the lights in my house flickered. I didn’t mention it to anyone because I figured it was probably just in my head because this show is insane, but nooooooooooo. My mother and brother both said they noticed it also. Half of the lights in our apartment complex had gone out. Ladies and gentlemen, I don’t think you want to know what might’ve happened to me if the power had gone out in my apartment as I was watching this show.

With that being said, I’m really surprised at how much I enjoyed watching this show. It’s one of those ones where you really can’t even attempt to try to figure anything out. It has twists and turns and you don’t know what’s real and what isn’t. You become invested in these characters, both as children and as adults. Kudos to Mike Flanagan for delivering a fantastic horror show that is terrifying and lovely and freakishly interesting with the perfect cast to go along with it. Well done!

I do still have some questions:

Why does Hugh Crain say that Hill House is the most dangerous for Steven?

Why could the adult Crain children “speak” with Nell, but not with their mother?

Why does it seem as though Nell was sort of targeted as opposed to any of the other children? Her and Luke experienced the most traumatic of the experiences, but I got the sense that the house wanted Nell to come home more than any of the other children.

Also, I’m not sure if I missed something in my tensed-up, anxious state of watching, but, in the finale, why does Steven ask Hugh what he saw? He’d always been so fixated on what Hugh wasn’t telling the children about the night they left Hill House, but I feel like I missed what it was he was blocking out.

Lastly, I want to know how it was for these younger children to film a show like this and have to say some of the things they had to say and see some of the things they had to see. Here’s to hoping they’re all just really great, young actors that won’t be scarred for life!

 

If any of you have watched and have theories, please let me know what your thoughts were! It was also announced recently that there will be a second season titled The Haunting of Bly Manor to be released in 2020. Do you think they’ll bring back some of the same actors the way that American Horror Story does? I really enjoyed the casting for this show, so I’m kinda hoping they do!

 

 

Music, TV, TV Reviews

WATCH: Now on Netflix | Once in a Lifetime Sessions with ONEREPUBLIC

by KristinLeave a Comment on WATCH: Now on Netflix | Once in a Lifetime Sessions with ONEREPUBLIC

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I’ve been a huge fan of OneRepublic for years now. I’ve even claimed that ‘Native’ is my favorite album of all time — yes, even above my all-time favorite Justin Timberlake‘s albums. They’re musical geniuses no matter how you break it down. I got to see them live once when they co-headlined with The Script a few years ago and it was one of my favorite shows I’ve been to. Now I’m just waiting for them to come down to Miami again!

When I saw that a session from this documentary series with OneRepublic would be available on Netflix, I had to jump at the chance to watch it because why the heck wouldn’t I??

SYNOPSIS: Once In A Lifetime Sessions is an original and unique music documentary series giving viewers the chance to get up close and personal with some of today’s most celebrated music icons. Filmed on location at some of the greatest studios around the world, the Sessions highlight the craftsmanship, artistic depth, incredible skill and talent of the artists whilst also showcasing their catalogue. Each episode is dedicated to a single artist or group and features both an intimate live performance and a vinyl recording session. These are woven together with exclusive interview footage and a masterclass exploring the stories behind some of the most memorable songs of all time. Episodes include OneRepublic, Kasabian, George Ezra, Snow Patrol, TLC, Moby, Noel Gallagher and Nile Rodgers. Now streaming on US Netflix.

In all honesty, I’d never heard of this series before this particular session, but I love shows like this. I used to love watching MAKING THE VIDEO and the DIARY series on MTV back in the day (I’m in my 30’s, don’t attack me lol). As a lover of music and entertainment, I loved being able to see the behind-the-scenes of it all. How things began as an idea and how that idea was actually put together for an artist. That’s what really fascinated me. Getting to know your favorite artists behind the music. This series reminds me of that. You get to learn a little more about OneRepublic from their own mouths and you also get to watch a few live performances of them on stage.

I highly recommend check out this episode and also going back and watching any others that you can find! Personally, I’m hooked!

 

TV Reviews

THE ORIGINALS | S5E3 | “Ne Me Quitte Pas” Review [Podcast]

by KristinLeave a Comment on THE ORIGINALS | S5E3 | “Ne Me Quitte Pas” Review [Podcast]

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Hello there! Welcome to The Elijah Show! Mike and I got together to talk about this Elijah-centered episode of The Originals that was actually directed by the ever-so-talented Joseph Morgan aka Klaus himself!

Again, we apologize for being a bit late in getting these out to ya’ll, but we should be back on track now for this week’s episode.

Make sure to follow us on Twitter (@ThisIsKristin_ and @mikethemovieguy) and Instagram! You can tweet us or comment on Insta and we just might read your comments on air next week.

SYNOPSIS: In the immediate aftermath of having his memory erased by Marcel, Elijah awakens to find himself in the middle of nowhere and without a clue as to who he is. Unable to control his instinctive vampire ways, Elijah encounters Antoinette, a beautiful and free-spirited vampire, who helps him navigate his new life. However, a run-in with Klaus threatens to destroy the peace he’s finally found.

Don’t forget! Send us your thoughts, favorite moments and fan theories and we’ll try to answer you On Air!

Tune in to The CW on Wednesday nights at 9/8c for more of the 5th and final season of The Originals!

TV Reviews

THE ORIGINALS | S5E2 | “One Wrong Turn On Bourbon” Review [Podcast]

by KristinLeave a Comment on THE ORIGINALS | S5E2 | “One Wrong Turn On Bourbon” Review [Podcast]

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Heyyyyyy…I know we’re a bit late in getting these out to ya’ll, but better late than never, right? One of us was busy taking care of two sick kiddies and it wasn’t me! So here is the first of three catch-up reviews!

Make sure to follow us on Twitter (@ThisIsKristin_ and @mikethemovieguy) and Instagram! You can tweet us or comment on Insta and we just might read your comments on air next week.

SYNOPSIS: When a mysterious disappearance brings Klaus back to New Orleans, Hope looks forward to the prospect of seeing her father again. However, when the dark magic that had been keeping them apart begins to manifest in dangerous ways across the city, Vincent turns to Ivy for guidance about what it may mean. Elsewhere, Marcel returns to New Orleans amidst increased tensions between the supernatural factions, while Freya makes a decision about her future with Keelin. Finally, Roman’s surprise visit to the Mikaelson compound forces Hope to reveal some dark truths about her family.

Send us your thoughts, favorite moments and fan theories and we’ll try to answer you On Air!

Tune in to The CW on Wednesday nights at 9/8c for more of the 5th and final season of The Originals!

TV Reviews

THE ORIGINALS | S5E1 | “Where You Left Your Heart” Review [Podcast]

by KristinLeave a Comment on THE ORIGINALS | S5E1 | “Where You Left Your Heart” Review [Podcast]

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Hey there, vamp fans!

Welcome back to another season recapping The Originals! Unfortunately, this is the last season for the show, but I’m sure we have a heck of a season ahead of us.

Check out the podcast below and let us know what you thought of the premiere episode!

Also, make sure to follow us on Twitter (@ThisIsKristin_ and @mikethemovieguy) and Instagram! You can tweet us or comment on Insta and we just might read your comments on air next week.

SYNOPSIS: Desperate to see her father Klaus after seven years, Hope resorts to drastic measures to bring her father back to New Orleans. Hayley attempts to minimize the fallout from Hope’s actions, but not before news of what she’s done ripples through the city. Meanwhile, Freya’s guilt over not being able to reunite her family gets in the way of her happiness with Keelin, while Rebekah struggles with her inability to fully commit to Marcel. Finally, struggling without Elijah by his side, Klaus’ murderous rampage throughout Europe leads to an unexpected encounter with Caroline Forbes.

Special shout out to our friends over on Twitter this week:

@theoriginalsaaf, @fairlyliterary, @_inthenova, @mrlsmith21, @jkimmay5, @the7thmatrix, @nerdette, @toomuchtelly, @hailqueenebony

Send us your thoughts, favorite moments and fan theories and we’ll try to answer you On Air!

Tune in to The CW on Wednesday nights at 9/8c for more of the 5th and final season of The Originals!

TV Reviews

THE RESIDENT | S1E1 “Pilot” & S1E2 “Independence Day” Review

by KristinLeave a Comment on THE RESIDENT | S1E1 “Pilot” & S1E2 “Independence Day” Review

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I’ve been excited about this show for weeks! I have a soft spot for medical dramas and, because I fell off the wagon with Grey’s Anatomy about 50 seasons ago, and Heartbeat was cancelled, and I can’t find Season 1 of Chicago Med anywhere, etc., I was stoked to catch this one. Especially because it stars Emily Van Camp (Revenge) and Matt Czuchry (Gilmore Girls). It seemed pretty unconventional in comparison with other medical shows, so I decided to check out some reviews ahead of the pilot episode. The overall consensus put the show at a B- so far, but I would put it at a B+ after the first two episodes. Here is the official synopsis for the show:

SHOW SYNOPSIS: The Resident centers on an idealistic young doctor who begins his first day under the supervision of a tough, brilliant senior resident who pulls the curtain back on all of the good and evil in modern day medicine. Lives may be saved or lost, but expectations will always be shattered.

Continue reading “THE RESIDENT | S1E1 “Pilot” & S1E2 “Independence Day” Review” →

TV, TV Reviews

SHOOTER | Season 1 Review | #TVreview

by KristinLeave a Comment on SHOOTER | Season 1 Review | #TVreview

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Hey there, TV lovers!

If you’re thinking about catching SHOOTER on USA Network, stop thinking!! Just do it!! I recently caught the entire first season on Netflix and I’m hooked. I was a fan of the film (ft. Mark Wahlberg) and, considering the fact that Wahlberg is an Executive Producer for the show, I figured it would be a good one. I wasn’t wrong.

Ryan Phillippe plays Bob Lee Swagger perfectly. He’s a triple threat: smart, talented and family driven. Swagger, a talented sniper, will stop at nothing to protect his family after he’s framed for murdering the Ukranian President.

Phillippe also has a great supporting cast in Shantel VanSanten, Cynthia Addai-Robinson, Eddie McClintock, Omar Epps, Josh Stewart and Tom Sizemore.

There’s action everywhere you look, but the action is driven (on Swagger’s side) by emotion, so there’s a good balance for everyone. To be honest, I thought this was the only season so far, so now I’m going to wrap this up and catch the second season on the USA app!

In case you need more convincing, check out the trailer for Season 1:

Music, TV, TV Reviews

2017 MTV Video Music Awards Review | #VMAs #MTV

by KristinLeave a Comment on 2017 MTV Video Music Awards Review | #VMAs #MTV

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I have to admit that, in recent years, I’ve skipped the VMAs because they just haven’t been what they used to be. This year, however, I stuck around and watched it with my niece, and while some moments were fantastic, others fell short. Here’s my take:

Katy Perry hosted the show this year and I felt like she fell a little flat. She has a great personality in that she can make fun of herself and she has a really quirky sense of humor that is rather infectious, but I feel like she might have done better with a co-host. The jokes fell flat sometimes and it felt a bit forced.

I was happy with the performances for the most part. MTV allowed some people (:::cough cough::: Fifth Harmony) to take forever giving their acceptance speeches, so they made up in time by cutting the length of some performances, which I thought was odd. In all honesty, I could’ve done without Lorde’s interpretive dancing to her new single (with no live singing whatsoever) in exchange for seeing some more awards being announced or full performances. Especially the Linkin Park tribute that Jared Leto so eloquently introduced. It’s been reported that Lorde was suffering from the flu, so if that was the reason for not actually singing, then I give her credit for still showing up. If I had the flu, my ass would’ve been in bed, under the covers with a box of tissues binge-watching something on Netflix, not jumping around on stage.

We also got an exclusive premiere of Taylor Swift’s new single, “Look What You Made Me Do.” Now, I’m all for the exclusive premieres because they’ve done that for years, but 1) Taylor Swift wasn’t even in attendance and 2) It felt like the video was like 10 minutes long. Again, I would’ve rather seen some more live performances or awards being announced.

Either way, there was a huge theme going on throughout the show where celebrities used their platform to address important issues going on in the world right now and I applaud them for speaking up without hesitation. Paris Jackson, daughter of the late Michael Jackson, used her time as a presenter to say,  “I hope we leave here tonight remembering that we must show these Nazi, white supremacist jerks in Charlottesville and all over the country that as a nation with liberty as our slogan we have zero tolerance for their violence, hatred, and their discrimination,” adding: “We must resist.”

P!nk accepted the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award and used her time to speak up about self-image and how her six-year-old daughter felt she was ugly because she felt she looked like a boy.  P!nk addressed her daughter and all others struggling with self-acceptance by saying, “We take the gravel in the shell and we make a pearl. And we help other people to change so that they can see more kinds of beauty. …And you, my darling girl, are beautiful. I love you.”

One of my favorite moments was when Logic, Khalid and Alessia Cara performed “1-800-273-8255” and sent an extremely powerful message about mental health to everyone listening. The artists performed the song, whose title is the phone number to the National Suicide Prevention Hotline, surrounded by a large group of suicide attempt survivors. You can watch the performance below and listen to the speech at the end for yourself (and you definitely should) OR you can read the speech here:

“I just wanna take a moment right now to thank you all so much for giving me a platform to talk about something that mainstream media doesn’t wanna talk about: mental health, anxiety, suicide, depression and so much more that I talk about on this album, from racism, discrimination, sexism, domestic violence, sexual assault and so much more. I don’t give a damn if you’re black, white or any color in between. I don’t care if you’re Christian, you’re Muslim, you’re gay, you’re straight. I am here to fight for your equality because I believe that we are all born equal, but we are not treated equally, and that is why we must fight. We must fight for the equality of every man, woman and child regardless of race, religion, color, creed and sexual orientation. So I say here and now, if you believe in this message and my message of peace, love and positivity and equality for all, then I demand that you rise to your feet and applaud, not only for yourselves, but for the foundation we are laying for our children.”

You can listen to what Brancey and I thought of the show by clicking play below:

Here are a few of my favorite performances of the night:

 

 

 

Did you watch the show? Let me know what your thoughts were and whose performances stood out to you the most!

TV Reviews

The Originals | S4E13 | “The Feast of All Sinners” Review [podcast]

by KristinLeave a Comment on The Originals | S4E13 | “The Feast of All Sinners” Review [podcast]

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What’s up, my fellow Originals fans?!

First and foremost, I want to apologize for being so late in getting this podcast review up for you all. We were having Skype issues and computer issues and school issues and life issues . . . you get the idea lol. But we didn’t forget about you and here it is!

Check out the podcast below and let us know what you thought of the episode!

Also, make sure to follow us on Twitter (@ThisIsKristin_ and @mikethemovieguy) and Instagram!

SYNOPSIS: In an explosive season finale, the Mikaelsons find themselves out of options as they face the all-powerful and un-killable entity known as The Hollow. With the life of Hope at stake, Vincent proposes a final, desperate plan – one that will force Klaus, Elijah, Hayley, Rebekah and Freya to make the greatest sacrifice their family has ever endured.

 

That wraps up Season 4 of The Originals! I hope you enjoyed our podcast reviews and I hope you all tune in next season!

TV Reviews

YOUNGER | S4E3 | “Forged in Fire” Review | #youngerTV

by KristinLeave a Comment on YOUNGER | S4E3 | “Forged in Fire” Review | #youngerTV

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Hello, my YOUNGER fam!! How did you all feel after this week’s episode? I have to say that this is one show that sends me on a 30 minute rollercoaster of emotions every week and I love every second of it!

This week we saw Liza continue trying to reel Kelsey back into the friendship realm, and was shot down yet again. Those moments where Kelsey just flat out ignores her are actually uncomfortable for me to watch…especially when they’re at work!

In any case, Millennial gets invited to attend a secret publishing retreat in the woods for the weekend, which could make or break any last ditch attempts to reclaim their friendship. Kelsey seemed extra bitchy in this episode as she continuously points out when she feels Liza isn’t acting the part of an actual millennial. She forces her to drink until Liza can take no more and throws up in a planter. This is the last straw that forces Liza to consider an offer to launch her own imprint at a rival publishing company. It’s funny because I hate the idea of Liza leaving Millennial BUT after Kelsey opposed the offer from Charles to give Liza a promotion I was actually rooting for Liza here. Come on, Kelsey! I know you’re mad and all, but that’s personal. Liza has done nothing but help you and you wouldn’t be where you are without her! Am I right??

It’s okay though because when Liza gets reception back on their way home to NYC, she realizes that Caitlin is being hospitalized. When Kelsey sees Liza jump into mom mode, she changes her tune. I think she understands now why Liza did what she did and she takes the initiative to ask Charles to offer Liza the promotion after all. She even offers to give Liza the raise out of her own salary! Classy move, Kels! I’m so glad this friendship is moving back in this direction. I’m sure they have so much to repair, but it’s worth it.

Meanwhile, Josh meets with Maggie at the coffee shop where her assistant, Montana, works and he is instantly infatuated. The latter ends up straddling Josh in a heated make-out session back at his apartment and, I just have to say . . . she better not get used to it! Josh belongs with Liza and that’s that!

Diana is also having a tough time of her own when she decides to introduce herself to her boyfriend’s ex-wife. His ex-wife laughs uncontrollably in response, which upsets Diana. Never fear! Diana seems to have a good one on her hands and he cheers her right up.

That sums up this week’s episode and I’m not mad at it!

 

Make sure to tune in to TVLand every Wednesday at 10pm for more of YOUNGER.

 

TV Reviews

YOUNGER | S4E2 | “Gettin’ Hygge With It” Review | #youngerTV

by KristinLeave a Comment on YOUNGER | S4E2 | “Gettin’ Hygge With It” Review | #youngerTV

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Our beloved YOUNGER bunch is definitely gettin’ hygge with it in this episode, and I’m not entirely ok with it! If you’re wondering what the heck “hygge” means, you are not alone. According to Empirical’s new client, “hygge” is the Danish idea for coziness.

Coziness: something that Josh and Kelsey are having no difficulty finding with each other at the moment.

Coziness: something Liza is awkwardly engaging in with Charles as she rubs his back spasm on the floor of his office.

Coziness: something Maggie is failing to achieve with her new barista friend, Montana, when she misreads her fangirling for flirting.

One dynamic duo that is NOT getting cozy right now is Liza and Kelsey, which is still making me both sad and angry. Ok Kelsey, we get that you feel betrayed, but that doesn’t really mean you have to be such a mega biatch to your bestie. Give the girl some slack. Lying was wrong, but she did what she had to do to advance her career. She didn’t do it with the intention of making friends and dating younger guys. Those were just a bonus. It hurts me to see Liza trying so hard to get back on Kelsey’s good side. It also killed me when Liza bumped into Josh on the street when they were both clearly trying to avoid each other. Ughhh . . . I need these relationships resolved asap!

This episode was the episode for giving words new meaning. Josh and Kelsey realize that Liza’s name literally says LIES-a. Way harsh, Josh, but it was a funny moment nonetheless. Lauren tells Max that Kelsey has a type and calls her a “doppelbänger,” which is one of the best things I’ve heard on TV in a long time. And, of course, we learned what “hygge” means and how it relates to the episode.

Speaking of learning new things. Kelsey is seemingly disgusted with Liza’s lack of millennial knowledge when she fails to identify what a meme is during a business meeting with Diana and Charles. Now that Kelsey is aware of Liza’s secret, everything she does is a reminder that she’s a liar in her forties.

After misjudging Colin (again) and his intentions (again), Kelsey brings him as her plus-one to the Empirical party, but quickly realizes he’s only there because he got dropped from his second book option and wants to convince Charles to jump in. Liza pulls Kelsey aside and offers unwanted advice regarding the adorable douchebag. She wants Kelsey to know that she deserves better than Colin. Someone who walks on the outside of the sidewalk. Kelsey doesn’t want to hear her “old lady” advice and leaves with him anyway. As he’s un-lovingly walking on the inside of the sidewalk, Kelsey almost gets hit by a biker. Colin is too busy to notice as he’s texting his agent about the possibly of getting the book option with Empirical, so Kelsey ditches him to go back home. To Josh’s apartment. I hate saying that.

Josh is having a party at the apartment and convinces Kelsey to join them for some two-stepping. I hate saying that too. Ugh. I’m all for platonic friendships, but he looks a little too longingly at Kelsey sometimes and it makes me nervous!

Let’s not forget that Diana is on the verge of discovering Liza’s secret because of all the bickering between her and Kelsey. It’s crazy, but I think Diana would be the one person to remain on Liza’s side even if (and when) she eventually does find out.

How do you all think Charles would react? I’m on the fence because Liza is Liza, but she just keeps digging that lie deeper and deeper when it comes to him. I just really love this show and the phenomenal writing, so I’m curious to see where it all goes.

Also . . . I’m a millennial so if Millennial or Empirical are hiring, I’m available lol. Let me know what you thought of the episode and how you used the term doppelbänger in a sentence this week haha. Here are some more outtakes to hold you over until next week:

Make sure to tune in to TVLand every Wednesday at 10pm for more of YOUNGER.

 

TV Reviews

YOUNGER | S4E1 | “Post Truth” Review | #youngerTV

by KristinLeave a Comment on YOUNGER | S4E1 | “Post Truth” Review | #youngerTV

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You guys!!! It’s back!! Words can’t express how much I love this show. My only complaint is that each episode is only 30 minutes! We need more, TV Land! We need more!

The Season 4 premiere of YOUNGER, which aired on Wednesday, June 28th, picks up where Season 3 left off. Liza’s lies (say that five times) are catching up to her, and she’s forced to “unburden” her truth on Kelsey (Hilary Duff). The tension is high throughout the conversation, but Liza (Sutton Foster) has got to be exhausted from all the lying! Kelsey doesn’t take the news well and sneaks out of Maggie (Debi Mazar) and Liza’s apartment in the middle of the night.

Now let me say that, on a personal level, I don’t think what Liza did — lying about her age in order to be considered for a job she was already good at — was necessarily wrong, but I think she definitely should’ve told Josh (Nico Tortorella) and Kelsey a lot sooner. The truth always comes out in the end, and, let’s be real … when you marinate something for a little longer than necessary things can get salty. Do you like what I did there? lol.

In any case, Kelsey feels betrayed by her bestie and now has to face the burden of finding an apartment to live in. During a meeting with Charles (Peter Hermann) and Diana (Miriam Shor) regarding a potential book deal, Liza is determined to come clean with them as well. Before she can spill the beans though, Kelsey stops her in her tracks and saves her from ruining her career. Did her alone time allow her to consider Liza’s position and possibly forgive her? Not quite. She tells Liza that if she reveals the truth, the Millennial imprint will be done for — it’s all business.

Kelsey ends up bonding with Josh over their shared feelings of betrayal by Liza. Spoiler Alert (if you’re not caught up on Season 3): Josh is still heartbroken after finding Liza kissing Charles in the Hamptons right before he was about to propose! He tells Kelsey not to ask him about that night in the Hamptons ever again. Ugh … Josh’s heartbreak makes my heart break!

Surprisingly, Kelsey calls in Emily — the Entertainment Weekly writer who blackmailed Liza into publishing her labradoodle book in exchange for not revealing her secret — into the office for a chat. She tells Emily that they’ll only publish her book if she keeps Liza’s secret AND puts Millennial on EW’s 29 Under 29 list to garner more publicity. Liza takes this as a sign of forgiveness, but she’s dead wrong … again. After the EW party, Kelsey tells her that what she did was for the imprint, not for her. She doesn’t know that she’ll ever be able to forgive Liza because she broke her heart. And to be honest, this whole exchange broke mine! I love the friendship that Kelsey and Liza have, so to see it on the rocks like this is difficult. Especially when I can understand both sides. Liza didn’t have bad intentions when she started this lie of hers, but she took a little too long to reveal the truth to those who trusted her integrity. Kelsey has gone through a lot in the past few seasons, so to have the one person she relies on reveal this huge lie, I can see why she feels so utterly betrayed.

While Josh and Kelsey wallow in their feelings of betrayal, Liza goes out with Charles to see items related to Ernest Hemingway being sold that once belonged to his father. Liza sees love letters written by Hemingway to Marlene Dietrich, which Charles explains the two were “victims of unsynchronized passion.” Ummm … yes, Liza … that was probably directed at you!

I should tell you all now that while I’ve been on the fence regarding the Josh-Liza-Charles love triangle at times, I am definitely on Team Josh at the moment. Josh is young, yes. He’s a bit more spontaneous and wild as opposed to Charles, yes. But Josh loved Liza despite her lies and he wanted to start a family. He was about to propose to the girl and saw her kissing her boss (which is a no-no as it is)!

After the 29 Under 29 party, Lauren (Molly Bernard) offers Kelsey her Uber ride which has just arrived. Kelsey takes the bait and Lauren and Liza follow the Uber on Lauren’s phone to find out where Kelsey has been staying. Turns out she’s Josh’s new roommate! He greets her at the door with a set of keys and my immediate thought is … this will not end well!

Ughhhhh … why do you do this to us, YOUNGER?? We get it, cliff hangers are your thing. But our broken hearts can’t take much more! Either way, I’m as hooked as I was during the first season and I’m not going anywhere!

If you’re not caught up yet, you can find all the episodes on the TVLand app, On Demand and on Hulu. Also, it was announced recently that YOUNGER has been renewed for a 5th Season!

Make sure to tune in to TVLand every Wednesday at 10pm for more of YOUNGER.

 

Here are some outtakes from this episode to hold you over until next week:

 

TV Reviews

The Originals | S4E12 | “Voodoo Child” Review [podcast]

by KristinLeave a Comment on The Originals | S4E12 | “Voodoo Child” Review [podcast]

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You guys!!! Mike and I are almost caught up on our recaps for The Originals. So sorry for the delay, but Mike had daddy duty and I was finishing up with one of my last classes. Adulting sucks sometimes, doesn’t it??

In any case, was anyone else watching this episode on the edge of their seat? There was also a lot of backlash towards the writers regarding the direction in which Hayley and Elijah’s relationship seems to be heading. Mike & I discuss our feelings on that in the podcast, but let me just say that if you’re a fan of the show be a fan of the show. Don’t start shooting hate towards the writers and creators because a relationship doesn’t have a picture perfect path that you want it to go on. They deliberate over the direction of the show in all aspects and they’re professionals for a reason! They know what they’re doing, people! Think before you send negative comments to people just because a pair of fictional characters aren’t giving YOU what you want. Write some fan fiction if that makes you feel better. As a writer myself, I just hate seeing the horrible comments like I saw on Twitter after these last few episodes aired. It’s not cool.

Anyway, check out the podcast below and let us know what you thought!

Also, make sure to follow us on Twitter (@ThisIsKristin_ and @mikethemovieguy) and Instagram!

SYNOPSIS: When The Hollow targets the most vulnerable Mikaelson, Klaus is forced to rely on Vincent, who believes he can use The Hollow’s own dark magic to defeat their enemy for good. Meanwhile, as Marcel worries that Vincent’s plan might backfire, the King of New Orleans decides on a deadly backup plan of his own. Elsewhere, after falling victim to The Hollow’s manipulations, Hayley struggles to figure out Hope’s future in New Orleans, while Freya must confront her darkest fear.

 

Special shout outs to our friends over on Twitter this week: @theoriginalsaaf, @tvdfansonline, @trentontess and @damonaddict_!

Send us your thoughts, favorite moments and fan theories and we’ll try to answer you On Air!

Tune in to The CW on Friday night at 8/7c for the Season 4 finale of The Originals!

 

TV Reviews

The Originals | S4E11 | “A Spirit Here That Won’t Be Broken” Review [podcast]

by KristinLeave a Comment on The Originals | S4E11 | “A Spirit Here That Won’t Be Broken” Review [podcast]

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What’s up, peeps?!

Ok, my anxiety is growing with all of this business with The Hollow lurking around! What do you think is going to happen? Will Kol betray his siblings to save Davina? Do you think it’s truly over between Marcel and Rebekah? What do you think The Hollow wants with Hayley? Let us know what you think!

Check out the podcast below and let us know what you thought!

Also, make sure to follow us on Twitter (@ThisIsKristin_ and @mikethemovieguy) and Instagram!

SYNOPSIS: When it’s discovered that The Hollow is using a magical totem to fuel her power, Freya enlists Rebekah and Klaus’ help to locate and destroy it. Elsewhere, an ultimatum by The Hollow puts Kol at odds with his own siblings, while an unexpected run-in forces Marcel and Rebekah to confront the growing tension between them. Finally, The Hollow’s plan for Hayley leaves her in the fight of her life.

 

Special shout outs to our friends over on Twitter this week: @theoriginalsaaf, @tvdfansonline, @trentontess and @damonaddict_!

Send us your thoughts, favorite moments and fan theories and we’ll try to answer you On Air!

Tune in to The CW on Friday nights at 8/7c for more of The Originals!

TV, TV Reviews

TV Series Review: FRONTIER | #frontier #netflix

by KristinLeave a Comment on TV Series Review: FRONTIER | #frontier #netflix

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SYNOPSIS: Follows Declan Harp, a part-Irish, part-Native American outlaw who is campaigning to breach the Hudson’s Bay Company’s monopoly on the fur trade in Canada. 

Ok, so the big bro (Mike “the Movie Guy”) gave me some homework a few weeks ago to check out a show called Taboo, starring Tom Hardy. I did, and I loved it (in fact, I should probably do a review for that one too!). After watching the first season of FRONTIER, I get a ton of Taboo vibes.

We all know that Jason Momoa plays the aggressive macho dude role really well (if you haven’t seen him on Game of Thrones as Khal Drogo, do yourself a favor and fix that!), but it kinda sucks that he’s typecasted into these roles. He’ll also be stepping into the water shoes of Aquaman, set to be released in 2018. With that being said, he plays the lead role of Declan Harp really well on FRONTIER. He’s determined to make heads roll, but still conjures up some sympathy from the viewers, which is what I like in a show.

The supporting cast is also great and full of lovely accents! You get some Native American, some Scottish and some of my own peeps, the Irish! There is a ton of cursing, some suggestive language, drinking and debauchery for those of you (like me) who enjoy a good F-bomb lol.

In comparison to Taboo, the quality is a little lacking. The throat-slitting happens way too easily, the stabbings barely produce any blood and sometimes the scenes in the tavern actually sound like a soundstage, but the show is still a great watch. I went into it with Taboo as a comparison, so if you haven’t seen Taboo, you might actually really like this one. I’ve seen both and enjoyed them regardless of production quality. With the first season being only 6 episodes, I’d say check it out. See what you think!

The show originally aired on Discovery Canada, but you can catch the first season on Netflix now. According to IndieWire, the show has already been renewed for a second season, so keep your eyes open for that as well.

Check out the trailer below, and then watch the darn show! Let me know what you think!

 

TV Reviews

Fear the Walking Dead | S3E1, S3E2 & S3E3 Review [podcast] | #FTWD #TWD

by KristinLeave a Comment on Fear the Walking Dead | S3E1, S3E2 & S3E3 Review [podcast] | #FTWD #TWD

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What’s up, peeps??

We’re back to talk about Season 3 of Fear the Walking Dead! While some of us are more excited than others, I’m pretty stoked to see Daniel Sharman (aka Troy) gracing our TV screens once again! Continue reading “Fear the Walking Dead | S3E1, S3E2 & S3E3 Review [podcast] | #FTWD #TWD” →

TV Reviews

The Originals | S4E10 | “Phantomesque” Review [podcast]

by Kristin1 Comment on The Originals | S4E10 | “Phantomesque” Review [podcast]

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Hey there, everyone!

How did you all enjoy the directorial debut of our beloved Daniel Gillies?? I have to say, I love that The Vampire Diaries and The Originals have allowed some of the cast members to test their talents at directing. We’ve seen episodes directed by Ian Somerhalder, Paul Wesley, Joseph Morgan, Charles Michael Davis and now Daniel Gillies. Can’t wait to see what some of the women can do!!

In any case, I couldn’t make it on Skype today, but I sent Mike my thoughts on the episode and he held down the fort!

Check out the podcast below and let us know what you thought!

Also, make sure to follow us on Twitter (@ThisIsKristin_ and @mikethemovieguy) and Instagram!

SYNOPSIS: After the devastating events of the previous episode, Klaus requests that his estranged siblings Rebekah and Kol return home to stand by their family against The Hollow. Meanwhile, Freya recruits Hayley for a dangerous journey that will put both their lives at risk — but may be the sole means of saving someone they love. Elsewhere, tensions rise when Marcel leads a hunt for The Hollow — putting him on a collision course with the person he was least prepared to face. Finally, as Kol continues to mourn the loss of Davina, he is forced to consider the lengths he’d go to see her again.

 

Special shout outs to our friends over on Twitter this week: @theoriginalsaaf, @tvdfansonline and @trentontess!

Send us your thoughts, favorite moments and fan theories and we’ll try to answer you On Air!

Tune in to The CW on Friday nights at 8/7c for more of The Originals!

TV Reviews

The Originals | S4E9 | “Queen Death” Review [podcast]

by Kristin1 Comment on The Originals | S4E9 | “Queen Death” Review [podcast]

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What’s up, peeps??? How are you all coping after Friday’s episode??? It took me a while to pick my jaw up off the ground, but I know things will work out for our Mikaelsons! I mean…they will, right?!?!?!

Mike and I got together this afternoon to talk about last night’s episode and it was an interesting podcast, to say the least lol.

Check out the podcast below and let us know what you thought of the episode. If you listened last week, you know that Mike gave me some homework to do. I had to pitch our app idea to someone involved with The Originals and I’d say I got an A haha.

Also, make sure to follow us on Twitter (@ThisIsKristin_ and @mikethemovieguy) and Instagram to keep up with our shenanigans!

SYNOPSIS: When The Hollow sends a terrifying message to Vincent, he must team with Hayley and Freya to embark on a desperate mission to stop the Hollow once and for all – even if it requires a heartbreaking sacrifice. Refusing to allow anyone in his family to pay the high price of defeating their enemy, Klaus makes a surprising alliance and enacts a plan that threatens to change the Mikaelson family forever.

 

Special shout outs to our friends over on Twitter this week: @theoriginalsaaf, @tvdfansonline and @trentontess!

Send us your thoughts, favorite moments and fan theories and we’ll try to answer you On Air!

Unfortunately we have a bit of a break now, so make sure to catch the next episode of The Originals on June 2 at 8/7c on The CW!

TV Reviews

The Originals | S4E8 | “Voodoo in My Blood” Review [podcast]

by KristinLeave a Comment on The Originals | S4E8 | “Voodoo in My Blood” Review [podcast]

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Helloooooooo, The Originals fans!!

Mike and I FINALLY got together last night to talk about The Originals!

Check out the podcast below and let us know what you think of our new idea for an app featuring the voice of Charles Michael Davis! Haha! I mean, wouldn’t you enjoy an app that lets you hear the BEST speeches ever for any occasion? I think we’re on to something here!

As always, reach out to us on Twitter  (@ThisIsKristin_ and @mikethemovieguy) or Instagram and let us know your thoughts on the episode and where you think our favorite vamps (and witches) might be headed!

SYNOPSIS: After being summoned by the ancestors, Hayley and Klaus travel to the ancestral world and come face to face with Davina, Klaus’ former foe and the one person who holds the secrets to The Hollow’s demise. Meanwhile, old wounds are re-opened when Elijah and Marcel are forced into an uneasy alliance. Together, they meet with Alaric who has tracked down a crucial artifact that could help in their fight against The Hollow. 

 

Special shout outs to our friends over on Twitter this week: @theoriginalsaaf, @tvdfansonline and @trentontess!

Send us your thoughts, favorite moments and fan theories and we’ll try to answer you On Air!

Tune in to The CW Fridays at 8/7c for more of The Originals!