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Episode 7 of The Agency  opens with Samia in a dangerous position—her family’s lives are threatened if she tries to step out and visit Paul again. The tension is palpable as she shakily calls Martian, letting him know just how unsafe she feels. Martian’s response is calm but filled with a sense of urgency, promising to handle the situation. Yet, the noose around both their necks is clearly tightening. It doesn’t help that things are also rocky between Martian and his daughter Poppy, whom he warns to stay inside for her own safety. But, of course, Poppy does what any teenager would do and sneaks out anyway. It’s a relief when an agent, acting on Martian’s orders, steps in to help Poppy avoid being spotted by Beijing’s surveillance team. The focus then shifts to the mysterious Operation Valhalla. We’re introduced to General Volchok, who’s running a mercenary group that specializes in high-stakes operations for the highest bidder. The operations range from Syria to Libya and Iraq, and these mercenaries have a terrifying reputation for war crimes. But what really struck me is how elusive they are. With troops spread across the globe and a deep sense of paranoia, they’re a near-impossible target. Henry explains that cracking Valhalla won’t be easy, and with legal issues complicating things further, it feels like the team is up against an insurmountable wall. Still, Martian is determined to find a way in, even if it means sending an “asset” into enemy territory. That asset? Alexei Orekhov, the man we’ve seen tortured earlier in the series. It’s hard not to feel for Alexei—his situation is bleak, and it seems like he’s being forced to choose between two awful options: cooperate or face a terrible fate in Belarus. India Fowler as Poppy in The Agency, episode 7, season 1, streaming on Paramount+, 2024. Photo Credit: Luke Varley/Paramount+ with SHOWTIME I couldn't help but feel the weight of Martian’s decisions. In a scene with Henry, Martian manages to avoid direct questions about his past with Samia, but the cracks are starting to show. There’s a sense that he’s on the edge of a breaking point—his loyalty is being tested, and his feelings for Samia might be clouding his judgment. What struck me most was the conversation between Martian and Poppy. He’s still lying to protect her, telling her everything is a drill and they’re safe. But it’s clear these lies are starting to eat at him, and I’m wondering just how long he can keep up this facade. Michael Fassbender as Martian in The Agency, episode 7, season 1, streaming on Paramount+, 2024. Photo Credit: Luke Varley/Paramount+ with SHOWTIME At the same time, Naomi is starting to question Martian’s relationship with Samia. Dr. Blake plants a seed of doubt, suggesting that Martian might be compromised, and I found myself agreeing. There’s so much history between Martian and Samia, and it’s hard to believe that doesn’t affect his actions, even if he tries to distance himself. Naomi digs deeper, finding old interviews that show a potential romantic connection between them, which feels like a big revelation. I’m fascinated by how this dynamic plays into the larger plot. Martian is playing a dangerous game, and it seems like everyone is starting to realize just how much of a personal stake he has in all of this. Meanwhile, Danny’s subplot continues to be a wild ride. When she finds out she won’t be going to Iran, she doesn’t take no for an answer. She resorts to threatening another researcher, which was brutal but kind of a reflection of how deep she’s sinking into this world of manipulation and power games. Watching her make these choices is tough, especially knowing how much she’s been pushed by the mission. It adds a lot of complexity to her character—she’s no longer the bright-eyed researcher, but someone who’s starting to embrace the darker side of the agency. The episode ends with Samia finally arriving at the college to meet Martian, who is ready to reveal everything. I’m not sure if she’s ready for the truth, though. I’m equally anxious and excited to see where this leads, especially since love seems to be the one thing that could unravel Martian’s entire world. But at the same time, I’m wondering if Samia is really who she says she is, or if she’s playing a larger game of her own. As things continue to escalate, The Agency  is really starting to shine. There’s a constant sense of danger that keeps me on the edge of my seat, and this episode brought that tension to a whole new level. Martian’s personal struggle with Samia is one of the most compelling parts of the show for me. Watching him try to protect those he loves while balancing his duty is heartbreaking, and I have no idea how this is going to play out. The subplot with Danny was a bit of a gut punch for me—her actions feel almost tragic, as if she’s losing herself in the mission. The show does a great job of weaving these personal stakes into the larger, more complex plot with Valhalla and the Russian connections, keeping things dense and full of intrigue. There’s a lot of uncertainty about whether Valhalla will be brought down, but it’s definitely shaping up to be a thrilling ride. I’ll be eagerly awaiting the next episode to see where things go from here. This has easily become one of the best thrillers on TV right now.

Written by Kae, Jazz and Barbara Just a few more hours until the curtain closes on 2024. The past year proved to be an exciting year for movies and television programming, with a blend of innovation, diversity, and a focus on quality storytelling shaping the landscape of new releases and returning seasons. Streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, Apple TV, Paramount+, and Amazon Prime continued their dominance with original content as well as acquiring existing films and series to appeal to diverse audiences, at home and abroad. With a cavalcade of content, there was literally something for everyone this past year to keep you occupied and entertained. Nevertheless, with the myriad of shows available and only 24 hours in each day, we are certain there were a few great cinematic moments you may have overlooked. So, in case YOU missed it, we took the liberty of putting together a must-see, catch-up watchlist of some of our top forgotten favs to close out the year.  Let’s see how many you can get in before the stroke of midnight fades the year to black. DISCLAIMER Disclaimer, created by five-time Academy Award winner Alfonso Cuarón. The show centers around a renowned documentary filmmaker, played by Academy Award  winner Cate Blanchett, who finds her life turned upside down when a mysterious novel is published, seemingly based on her life and the decades-long dark secrets she has tried to keep hidden. As she grapples with the implications of the book, she becomes embroiled in a web of intrigue and deception, questioning the nature of truth and the impact of storytelling.  The series, which also stars fellow Academy Award winner Kevin Kline as an aggrieved father, blends elements of thriller and drama, exploring themes of memory, identity, and the blurred lines between reality and fiction. Blanchette, in one of her finest hours, delivers a masterful performance as Catherine Ravenscroft in the original limited series, first released October 11 on Apple TV+. Blanchette’s portrayal is both compelling and layered, showcasing her ability to convey vulnerability and strength as she grapples with the implications of her past overshadowing the realities of her present. The tension and intensity she brings to the role elevates the narrative, earning her nominations for both a Golden Globe and Critics Choice Award. Blanchette’s depiction plays beautifully opposite her co-stars, Kline in one of his most powerful performances of layered in raw emotion and angst, to date, and Lesley Manville as his wife in stunning side-by-side performances as a couple who must confront the unimaginable as parents.  Sacha Baron-Cohen rounds out the leading cast in a surprise dramatic role as Blanchette’s unsuspecting husband. Told in dual perspectives narration, you will think you know the truth — but, only if you stay until the end.  Disclaimer is based on the best selling novel of the same name by Renee Knight, and is streaming now on Apple TV+.  MR. AND MRS. SMITH Think of two of the most unlikely people to pair as a married couple. YEAH, these fit that bill! John and Jane Smith are new CIA recruits that have a combative, awkward relationship, to say the least. That's how it begins. How they ultimately come to work together captures your attention. They create this sleek, impressive duo and become an exciting, interesting, and surprising pair of super spies! The subtle touch of comedy added by Maya Erskine and Donald Glover, playing the titular characters, adds to this superbly entertaining limited series, just right for an end of year binge-watch.  Amazon Prime's Mr. and Mrs. Smith is a reimagining of the classic story originally told in the 2005 film starring Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie. The series’ storyline revolves around a married couple who appear to lead ordinary lives, but are secretly spies. Their dual identities and hidden lives create tension and humor as they navigate their relationship while also dealing with their espionage activities. The show explores themes of love, trust, and the complexities of marriage, all set against a backdrop of action and intrigue. Season 2 of the Amazon Prime Video mini-series, originally released May 2024, got exactly what it deserved! Despite initial comparisons to its big-screen predecessor, the straight-to-streaming reboot has definitely made a remarkable impression of its own. The series was nominated for 16 Primetime Emmys, including Outstanding Drama Series, taking home two statuettes at the 2024 ceremony. Check it out for a rewatch or a first watch. All 16 episodes of Mr. and Mrs. Smith’s seasons 1 and 2 are streaming now on Amazon Prime. BAD SISTERS Bad Sisters, the Apple TV+ series that follows the lives of the Garvey sisters, a close-knit group of women who share a deep bond and an even deeper dark secret. The story begins with the unexpected death of one of the sisters' husbands in season one, leading to an investigation that reveals the lengths to which the sisters will go to protect each other. The series blends dark comedy and drama, diving into the complicated ideas of family loyalty, love, and the complexities of sisterhood, all while maintaining a suspenseful narrative as the sisters navigate the aftermath of their brother-in-law's death. The ensemble cast, led by the show’s creator Sharon Horgan, features Eve Hewson, Eva Birthistle, Sarah Greene, Anne-Marie Duff, as the Garveys, and Fiona Shaw, of Harry Potter fame, as the sisters’ very own modern-day Gladys Kravitz. Bad Sisters is known for its sharp wit, engaging characters, and intricate plot twists, set against the often complicated backdrop of family dynamics. The first two episodes aired on August 19, 2022. Apple TV+ renewed the series for a second season on Nov 8. 2022, which started releasing episodes on November 13, 2024. The first season received a 2022 Peabody Award for excellence in comedy as well BAFTA and Emmy nominations. Seasons 1 and 2 of Bad Sisters are streaming now on Apple TV+. BLACK CAKE Based on the best seller of the same name,  Black Cake is a drama series on Hulu. It follows the story of Eleanor Bennet who leaves behind voice recordings for her children Benny and Byron after she dies. Neither child knows of her true heritage.  The story parallels between present day and the past starting from Eleanor's childhood in the Caribbean. Eleanor left the Carribean to travel to Europe and start a new life with a new identity. Eventually she ended up in the states leaving everything behind and never looking back. She left with good reason, but her children may not fully understand that. Grieving, Benny and Byron try to balance the struggles and hardships of their lives as dark family secrets are unveiled. They try to repair their strained relationship while coming to terms with their mother's secrets and her true identity.  It is a compelling family drama that has wonderful performances from the ensemble cast. The plot was intricate, the pacing was even and cinematography was beautiful. I never read the book and I understand that the story could be wrapped up in one season, but it felt opened ended and needed at least six more episodes to wrap it all up. I feel that it was not given a fair chance to be completed. Starring Chipo Chung as Eleanor, Mia Isaac, Adrienne Warren, and Bashy, Black Cake was first released Nov. 1, 2023, and streams exclusively on Hulu. ROB PEACE Heart-wrenching and powerful cinema, filled with anger and sadness.  Just some of the many words we could use to adequately describe director Matthew Carnahan’s brilliant film work with Rob Peace. The 2024 biographical drama, starring American rapper/musician Jay Will, as the title character, is based on the biography The Short and Tragic Life of Robert Peace by Jeff Hobbs. The film tells the inspiring true story of a young man from a challenging background who rises above his circumstances to attend Yale University. The poignant and powerful drama takes you desperately through the gifted young man’s challenging background as he must navigate the complexities of life between his upbringing in a rough neighborhood and his aspirations for success and a chance at an Ivy League education. The film, featuring an outstanding performance by Will, captures Peace's struggle against the odds while highlighting the systemic issues faced by many in similar circumstances. At its core, it is a story of a son’s love of his father, and how he used his brilliance and questionable choices to save him.  In the end, those choices cost him his life.  No doubt, this is an emotional movie that makes one think of their own life choices and their effect on the path you ultimately follow.  The underlying narrative is, at times, both inspiring and heartbreaking, exploring themes of identity, ambition, and the impact of environment on personal choices. The screenplay deftly balances moments of hope and despair, allowing viewers to connect deeply with Peace's journey. The supporting cast, featuring Chiwetel Ejiofor, Camila Cabello, Mary J. Blige, and Mare Winningham, delivers strong performances, adding layers to the story and illustrating the diverse influences that shape Rob's life. Rob Peace is a compelling and thought-provoking film in how it not only honors one young man’s remarkable life, but also how it serves as a broader commentary on the challenges faced by those striving to be better  — for themselves and their future. The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on January 22, 2024, and was given a limited theatrical release in the United States. Streaming now on Netflix, Apple TV, and Amazon Prime, Rob Peace is a must-watch for anyone called to stories of resilience and the pursuit of dreams against all odds. SHRINKING What does it take to forgive? To overcome? To be brave? To heal?  The truth?  It takes a village of the most flawed, complicated, lovable, supportive, dedicated group of people you can surround yourself with, who have seen you at your worst and love you anyway. You need the ones you can call in the dead of night, with a simple “It’s me,” and they come running, no questions asked, to help you pick yourself up from the ashes and move yourself courageously through the struggles of this world. When you find that village, you will have the makings of your own version of Shrinking, Apple TV+’s breakout hit, streaming now in its sophomore season. Season 2 of Shrinking, released on October 15, 2024, builds on the solid foundation laid by its 2023 inaugural run, delivering a blend of humor, heart, and poignant explorations of mental health and personal growth. Created by Bill Lawrence, Jason Segel, and Brett Goldstein, this dramedy takes viewers deeper into the lives of its characters, all while maintaining its signature blend of wit and authentic warmth.  Jason Segel, nominated for a Golden Globe, reprises his role as Jimmy Laird, the unconventional therapist grappling with the loss of his wife while trying to navigate his own emotions and  often complicated relationships. This season sees Jimmy continue to ride of the ragged edge of what’s appropriate boundaries for therapy, leading to both hilarious and touching moments. Segel delivers a nuanced performance, balancing the comedic elements with the underlying sadness of his character pushing to find forgiveness for others… and himself. The chemistry among the supporting cast is the through line of the series, making their interactions feel authentic and relatable. Jessica Williams as Gaby brings an infectious energy to every scene, and her evolving relationship with new love interest Derrick adds depth to her story as the consummate caregiver. Harrison Ford, also a Golden Globe nominee for his role as Paul, the lead therapist and everyone’s mentor, showcases his impressive range of vulnerability often buried beneath his tough exterior. Spoiler Alert — bring your Kleenex when watch the season finale. One of the standout aspects of Season 2 is its willingness to tackle heavier themes while still keeping the tone light. The exploration of grief, healing, and the complexities of human relationships is handled with great care, allowing viewers to connect emotionally without feeling overwhelmed. The writing strikes a balance between humor and heartfelt moments, that will leave you laughing one minute, reflecting the next. Every.Single.Episode. Shrinking is streaming now in AppleTV+. Did you watch all the shows on the list? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

The plot thickens in Landman as hard-ball attorney Rebecca Falcone comes out of the shoot in episode 8 of the hit Paramount+ series with guns a-blazin’ for her anticipated verbal dust up with Cooper Norris. When we last visited The Patch, the oil company attorneys, Nathan and Rebecca (Kayla Wallace) hit a roadblock in their settlement talks with Ariana Medina, played by Paulina Chavez. Ariana, skeptical of the legal double-talk surrounding her husband’s oilfield death, continues to seek advice from her surprise new roommate, Cooper (Jacob Lofland). In turn, Rebecca is most pleased with finally crossing paths with the elusive oilfield crew newbie and sole survivor of the pumpjack explosion in the series’ season opener. Though Rebecca does her best to intimidate Cooper, with her not-so-subtle hints on his possible involvement with the explosion, she does so to no avail. It seems the young roughneck has been paying a lot more attention to the politics of oil industry litigation and accidental death payouts to victims’ families, than anyone thought to imagine. With Ariana solely leaning on him as her personal life coach, Cooper steps in to demand that M Tex Oil step up its settlement dollars to the Medina families.  Without question, the implications of such a fiery demand impact Cooper’s own long-term employment with the company. No worries though, Cooper’s animated heart eyes towards Ariana indicate that, for him, it may be worth it.   Now above Nathan’s pay grade to make that call on his own, the elder attorney radioes his boss’ boss Monty Miller (Jon Hamm) for approval to get the families to millionaire status. Played serenely by veteran actor Colm Freore, Nathan’s presence tempers every scene with his calm-in-any-storm persona as the voice of reason and often the only acting adult in the room. Rebecca finds that she may have met her match with the Norris Family men - a fact that is emphasized once again with a heated follow up convo with Cooper’s dad, Tommy, later that night. No doubt, this was not one of Rebecca’s best days. Back in Fort Worth, oil magnate Monty works on yet another issue as he seeks the Texas governor’s help with the menacing drug cartel near his oil rigs outside Midland, and asks for assistance from the Texas National Guard. Like candy from a baby, Monty gets what he wants. For now. As problems continue to rise for Monty, so does his blood pressure. He presses his driver to take a swing by the hospital on the way home —- a check of his Apple Watch has just told him that the stress has gotten the better of his heart. Sandwiched between the serious of this episode, we find a bit of comic relief in James Jordan’s oilfield engineer, Dale Bradley, still trying to navigate the antics of the Norris Family funhouse that has become his home life; and Ali Larter’s Angela, the rekindled pseudo wife to Billy Bob Thornton’s Tommy Norris. It is still up for debate, though, as to whether or not Angela as a character is on canvass for pure satire, or writer/creator Taylor Sheridan truly believes this is how Texas oil wives actually think and behave. In her rough-around-the-edges dialogue, one is left to wonder if Larter’s character lines are inserted merely for unfiltered shock value, or there is some deeper meaning to their overt shallowness, yet to be revealed. Nevertheless, what Angela’s presence lacks in substance and deep thought, Ariana’s time on screen with Cooper more than makes up for it, with its quiet display of a woman’s undeniable reservoir of strength and resolve. With their knowing looks, the quiet questioning of the appropriateness of their pairing — once again, the budding romance between the young widow and her gritty knight in oil-stained armor, drill down into what remains the heart of the narrative. And, in between the big oil economics lessons and what’s really killing our planet teen discussions in the episode, you find yourself mentally fast-forwarding through the filler scenes to get back to the storyline that clearly carries the sentimental weight of the show. When the other parts do not make sense, the angst of this right-person, wrong-time love affair, somehow, almost always does. For his part in the ensemble scenes playing opposite the burgeoning lovebirds, Thorton thrives in his versatility as an actor, tapping into his own ability to convey that needed sensitivity and touching depth, showcasing emotional nuances that contrast with the rougher edges of his persona. In these, dare-I-say tender, moments, Thornton uses subtle facial expressions, a softness to his voice, and gentle body language to illustrate Tommy’s inner conflict for his son, and the bitter reality of what a long-time relationship with his crew mate’s widow would mean. Thornton balances toughness with the vulnerability of a father, creating a rich and engaging portrayal, that translates into a character decidedly more relatable. To bring episode 8 to a close, Landman brings us back to the high-stakes drama that originally gave the big oil story its purpose. In the episode’s final minutes, the National Guard has arrived as promised and quickly makes its presence known with aerial training maneuvers, to serve as a deterrent to the cartel in and around The Patch. Little do the military men know, their presence may have indeed thwarted a drug runner exchange in process, even if not in the ways they intended. Only time and the next episode will tell what could possibly be the fallout for our favorite landman, as a result. Landman streams each Sunday on Paramount+.

The episode kicks off with a gut-wrenching discovery: a couple stumbles upon the body of Judge Powell's son, who was missing, introduced in the last episode. Fans had clung to the hope of his safe return, but this grim twist sets a haunting tone. At a crime scene, the chief hounds La Guerta, clearly still bitter about her hire, as she steps up to lead the case. Meanwhile, Dexter, shaken by the sight of the child’s lifeless body, takes a moment to collect himself—a rare crack in his usually controlled demeanor. Deb is hanging out with her best friend at the Morgan household, plotting a trip to South Beach. Her plans hit a snag when she realizes her dad took the truck she was promised. True to form, Deb lets out a string of colorful expletives in frustration. Dexter is called to a case on the beach where La Guerta is already taking charge, impatient with his meticulous methods. The narrator slyly notes that she’ll come to appreciate them later, a nod to fans of the original series who know how their dynamic unfolds. The case itself involves a man in a skirt who has been murdered, but the scene takes a disturbing turn when an ignorant EMT refuses to touch the body, fearing AIDS—a stark reminder of the prejudices of the time. Harry reflects on the discovery of Judge Powell’s son’s body. He worries that it could be triggering Dexter’s memories of his mother’s brutal death and the realization that he has a brother out there. This prompts a trip to the agency to ensure all traces of Dexter’s past are wiped clean. Fans of the original series will find the callbacks thrilling, especially the deeper dive into Harry’s connection with Laura, Dexter’s mother, and how their relationship shaped Harry’s decision to adopt Dexter. This layer of backstory enriches the narrative in ways the original series only hinted at. In her chaotic subplot, Deb buys coke from a random street dealer and indulges with her friend. Back at home, Dexter has a tense conversation with Harry. Dexter wants to kill the person responsible for Judge Powell’s son’s murder, but Harry, ever the moral compass, is disappointed. He reminds Dexter that he killed just days ago. Dexter fears his urges will spiral if he doesn’t act, and Harry relents, asking if he has a target. Enter Mad Dog, a professional hitman rumored to have a body count nearing 200. It’s a cold case, but Dexter is ready to make it his mission. Deb’s storyline escalates as she sneaks into a club, steals a bottle of Dom from VIP, and meets an older man who gives her his card. Later, she goes to meet up with the man. She leaves Harry a message saying she will spend the night with her friend. Harry sees through her deception and chooses not to confront her. It’s yet another moment where Deb’s recklessness shines, and as always, she’s a polarizing character for viewers. Dexter begins stalking Mad Dog, setting the stage for his next kill. The episode crescendos with Dexter working through his emotions the only way he knows how: by doing what he loves. However, this time, his victim puts up a fight, almost escaping. It departs from Dexter’s usual clean, controlled executions, adding tension and unpredictability to the scene. Without spoiling too much, the episode ends on a gripping cliffhanger. Patrick Gibson continues to shine as young Dexter, perfectly capturing the character’s internal conflict and eerie calm. Each episode masterfully weaves together past and present, balancing character development with steadily unfolding plotlines. Ten out of ten. Another phenomenal installment in this prequel series.

After a chaotic and overstuffed premiere, Dexter: Original Sin  finds its footing in Episodes 2 and 3, "Kid in a Candy Store" and "Miami Vice," offering a nostalgic flow that echoes the classic tone of the original series. While Episode 1, "And in the Beginning...," tried to cover a lot of ground by revisiting key moments from Dexter  season 1, it struggled to balance the old and new characters. The new characters, in particular, felt somewhat forced, and it was difficult to get a natural sense of how they would fit into Dexter’s world. But Episodes 2 and 3 help smooth things over, and I found myself feeling far more invested in the story and characters. The second episode unpacks Dexter’s second kill after Nurse Mary, while the third episode finally introduces Maria LaGuerta, who was mysteriously absent from the earlier episodes. Christina Milian’s take on Maria is a standout, and I honestly felt she nailed the essence of Luna Lauren Velez’s iconic performance while also adding her own spin to the role. Watching Milian's Maria, I couldn't help but think how much she elevated the character. Patrick Gibson’s portrayal of Dexter only gets more compelling as the series progresses—he’s really starting to embody the eeriness and nuance that made Michael C. Hall’s Dexter so captivating. Even more intriguing, though, is Harry’s backstory, especially the unexpected retcon that reveals Deb’s biological brother’s death. This twist adds a layer of complexity and emotional depth that I didn’t expect from a prequel series, and I’m honestly hooked to see where it goes. Episode 2 takes its time laying the groundwork for the rest of the series, which felt a bit slow at first, but as Dexter settles into his role at Miami Metro, the pacing picks up, and it’s hard not to feel the pull of nostalgia. The Nurse Mary exposition and excessive use of licensed music (though I do have to admit, the Alice in Chains outro was a nice touch) started to fade into the background, allowing the show’s subtle details to shine. A personal favorite moment was the origin story behind Dexter’s donut offerings at Miami Metro—it was a small but sweet Easter egg that really made me appreciate how much care is being put into this prequel. It’s clear the creators want to honor the original series without merely copying it. What initially felt like weak imitations of familiar characters—especially Batista and the side characters—start to feel more authentic in Episodes 2 and 3. The transition from early awkwardness to fully fleshed-out personalities had me feeling more comfortable in this new world. When Dexter locks his sights on a predatory loan shark responsible for the deaths of his community members, the familiar core of the original series starts to reappear, and it felt like Dexter  once again. This shift, combined with the compelling flashbacks of Laura Moser and Harry, begins to silence any lingering doubts I had about the prequel’s potential. The main question I had going into Dexter: Original Sin  was whether Gibson could pull off the role of Dexter, and so far, I’ve been pleasantly surprised. He’s definitely growing into the role, and watching him prepare for his first kill was genuinely thrilling. Episode 3, especially, takes on that classic Dexter  vibe—Dexter going undercover, locking onto a target, and operating in the shadows. It reminded me of the glory days of the show, where Dexter’s need to kill was balanced with his deep sense of moral conflict. This was something that was sorely missing in New Blood , where Dexter was completely out of his element in a colder, unfamiliar setting. In comparison, Original Sin  feels like a return to form. By Episode 3, the show had answered most of my initial questions about whether a prequel could work without Michael C. Hall, and it’s quickly becoming clear that it can. The intrigue is there, and the story is shaping up to be just as captivating as the original. Ferrer’s role as a mid-season side quest fits seamlessly, while the main narrative involving the masked man who kidnapped and maimed a judge’s son slowly builds in the background, leaving me eagerly anticipating what’s to come. What really stood out in Episode 3 was how it captured the tension and tone of the original series, and I could feel myself getting more and more invested with each passing scene. Dexter’s eagerness to take down Ferrer paired with Harry’s growing concern for Laura’s safety created a great dynamic, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of dread and anticipation building. I’m also hoping we get some major revelations about Laura Moser or even Dexter’s biological father, Joe, especially after that brutal shipping container scene. By the end of Episode 3, I was hooked—no longer questioning if Dexter: Original Sin  could live up to the legacy of the original series, but rather fully invested in where the story is going. The show has truly found its rhythm, and it’s starting to feel like a vintage Dexter  season in all the right ways. It’s thrilling to know that a prequel, without the iconic lead actor, can still capture the same sense of suspense and complexity that made Dexter  such an unforgettable show. I’m excited for what’s next.

With 2024 quickly coming to a close, I thought I’d reflect on the eclectic array of book boyfriends I’ve managed to collect this year. With over 140 romance books read this year, (and more than a handful Why Choose, Reverse Harem, & Poly), I’ve collected an impressive menagerie of men.  However, which ones are my top tier?  There really isn’t any way that I could POSSIBLY pick only 5 or even 10, TOP book bf’s from this large of a pool. So I’ve decided to divide them into six categories, each with a top 5. Still hard, but I’m satisfied with the top contenders and I hope you are too.  I’ve divided the men into groups of five within six categories: Athlete, Bad Boy, Good Boy, Group, Mythical & Wealthy.  Athlete is pretty self explanatory. As I read a lot of sports romances, this was the toughest one to narrow down, with the majority of my faves being athletes. I ended 2023 on a major Hockey high and this year, that continued a bit with books like The Wingman  by Stephanie Archer and St Louis Siren’s  series by Alexandria House. Tessa Bailey had me looking at Golf with a fresh pair of eyes this year, thanks to Fangirl Down , and Sloan Spencer has me hooked with her new The Rugby Lovers  series. However, this year I was also grateful to find books centered on my favorite sport, baseball, and mi gente. Millie Perez’ Strikeout , Cat Giraldo’s Dominating the Diamond  series and Janiah Benitez’ The Hale  series all brought together my love of baseball and my love for my fellow Latine folk. Making this year one of my best Sport Romance reads years to date.  Bad Boys is a bit of a catch all. These are the Mafiosos like Prince of Ink & Scars by Raya Morris Edwards & the habitual or professional unalivers like Butcher & Blackbird  by Bryanne Weaver. Men covered in tattoos, riding motorcycles and busting faces open ala Savage & Ink  duet by Victoria Ashley. The man who growl, prowl and care about nothing and no one, except his woman like Them Boys  trilogy by Alexandria House.  Like Bad Boys, Good Boys is a blanket category for all my good guys, the gentle lovers, protectors, caregivers and friends who’s gentle ways melt the heart and make you swoon. Men from books like, The Love Con  by Seressia Glass, Sunny Disposition  by Deanna Grey, Perfectly Candid  by JS Jasper or Twice a Quinceanera by Yamile Saied Mendez.  Group is a bit more of a niche category. I found this one necessary since I read a good amount of Polyamorous, Reverse Harem & Why Choose books like Structural Duet by Sloan Spencer, My Brothers Teammates  by Melissa Ivers & House of Durand  by Erin Bedford. This is pretty self explanatory. These are my favorite partner pairings involving multiple men.  Mythical is for all my non human book loves. Including some books like Unhinged  & Hayseed  by Vera Valentine, which involve love with a DOOR and one that involves a SCARECROW. Honestly, they sound strange but the stories actually make sense. This year I did get a bit more into monster smut. There were gargoyles  in Titan  by Jillian Graves, tentacles in So.Very.Deep  by Trixie Sphinx, furry shape shifters in Baited   by the Beast  trilogy by Journee Jordan and fangs in Court of the Vampire Queen  by Katee Robert this year. Although I grew up reading paranormal and fantasy books, I’ve fallen off on my monsters, so it was good to dip back into a familiar story with a more grown up direction.  Finally we have our Wealthy category. Also, self explanatory. These are our Billionaire Bosses,  The Desire Variable  by Ana D’Arcy, Trustfund Babies, Fallen Foe  by L. J Shen, Boardroom Bad Boys, Billion Dollar Revenge  by Sharon Woods and Richy Rich Romeos, Only for the Week  by Natasha Bishop.  With all that explained, here are my TOP 5’s for each Book Boyfriend Category.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         Athletes:  Mateo- Strikeout by Millie Perez  Mateo- Wild Pitch by Cat Giraldo August- Long Shot by Kennedy Ryan Isaiah- Play Along by Liz Tomforde Declan- The Weiner Across the Way by Amy Award  Bad Boys: Jah- Jah by Alexandria House Caden- Prince of Ink & Scars Ray- Lilith by Alexandria House Renzo- Velvet Kingdom by BB Hamel Royal- Royal Savage by Victoria Ashely Good Boys: Ahmed- Curvy Girl Summer by Danielle Allen Rafael- Every Version of You by Sloan Spencer Luis- Island Affair by Priscilla Oliveras Elliot- Perfectly Candid by J.S Jasper Jake- Up the Ladder by Ana D’Arcy Groups/Duos: Jay & Marco- Structural Duets by Sloan Spencer Lukas & Colton- Pucking Sweet by Emily Rath Gideon & Kitt- Outfield Assist by Cat Giraldo The Vicious Lost Boys- The Dark One by Nikkie St Crows The Durand Clan- Indebted to the Vampires by Erin Bedford Mythical:  Xander- Essence & Runes by Taylor Lynn Khan- Khan’s Choice by Tacarra Matice- I Accidentally Summoned a Demon Boyfriend by Jessica Cage Titan- Titan by Jillian Graves Malachi- Sweet Vengeance by Viano Oniomoh Wealthy: Rome- Only for a Week by Natasha Bishop Gabriel- Yours, For Now by Leonor Soliz Finneas- When We Lied by Claire Contreras Julian- Love Redesigned by Lauren Asher Snow- Snow King Catches His SnowFlake by A.E Valdez So many great fictional men came into my life this year, so is just a small bunch but I am so glad for the adventures they each took me on. Cannot wait to see what magnificent men I’m able to collect next year.  As always, leave a comment below and let us know if you’d like to see more content like this, and what you think about my list. Book recs are always welcomed, so if you have a book boyfriend you think I should meet, leave a comment, or message me on IG, Fabel, BlueSky or Threads @TravelingBookieMonster

Now that the holiday season is in full swing here in the US, I’ve begun my yearly holiday reads. I’m not too big on the holidays but a cute holiday romance to cuddle up with is a great way to get through the long lonely winter nights.With so many holiday romances to choose from, I’ve decided to put together this handy little guide to help you choose the right cozy, spicy holiday read for this season. So snuggle into that blankie, grab that Kindle and let's pick a book.  Some of the titles below I have already read and my rating is listed, others are on my TBR. In order to make this little list more user friendly, I’ve also noted which books will help to diversify your shelf. Either by LGBTQ+ or Plus Sized rep, or if the author is Latine or Black. If the book fits multiple categories, I’ll let you know. As I’ve been on a mission the last two years to add more diversity to my bookshelf and hope to assist others with the same task, I hope you find this list useful.  Books are listed alphabetically by author's last name.  Award, Amy- Honkers Under the Holly. Plus Size rep. Fake Engagement trope. (Rating: LOVED) Cochrun, Alison- Kiss Her Once for Me. Queer rep.  Second chance lesbian romance. (Rating: LOVED) Grosse, Kayla- Trick Shot. Plus Size & Queer rep. Novella. One night only & Insta Attraction tropes. (Rating: LOVED) House, Alexandria- Black love rep. Always My Baby. Second Chance trope. (TBR) All I Want. Second Chance trope & Mental Health rep. (TBR) Merry Christmas, Baby. Workplace (TBR) Jingle- Mingle; Workplace trope. (TBR) New Year, New Boo? Workplace trope.(TBR)  Keys, Ashantay- Nuttin for Christmas. Black love rep. Best Friend’s Brother. (TBR) Lora, J.L- A Noche Buena for Lonely Hearts. Latine Rep. Just for the night. (TBR) Murphy, Julie & Simone, Sierra- Christmas Notch Series (TBR) A Merry Little Meet-Cute. Plus Size rep. A Holly Jolly Ever After. Workplace.  A Tingle Bell Mingle. One Night Stand Price, Jade- How the Monster Stole Me on Christmas Eve- Monster. (Rating: ENJOYED) Quinn, Meghan- Resting Scrooge Face. Novella (Rating: ENJOYED) Rhodes, Meg- Her Yuletide Troll. Plus Size Rep. Monster.  Small town trope. (TBR) Rose, Sedona- The Christmas Wish. Black love rep. Novella. (TBR) Stimpson, Michelle- Let It Snow. Audiobook. Narrators: Kendrick Sampson & Jurnee Smollett Black love rep. (Rating:ENJOYED) Soliz, Leonor- Under the Meh-stletoe. Latine & Plus Sized Rep. Two Holiday Grumps. Small Town trope. (Rating:LOVED) Warren, Mary- Taylor. Plus Size & Autism rep. Snowed in for the Holiday trope. (Rating: ENJOYED) Valdez, A.E- Snow King Catches His Snowflake. Black love rep. Double booked cabin for the  holiday. (Rating:LVOED)   Books are listed alphabetically by author's last name.  Award, Amy- Honkers Under the Holly. Plus Sized Rep. Fake Engagement trope. (Rating: 4.5   ) Cochrun, Alison- Kiss Her Once for Me. Second chance lesbian romance. Queer main & supporting characters. (Rating: 5 ) Grosse, Kayla- Trick Shot. Plus Size & Queer Rep. Novella. One night only & Insta Attraction tropes. (Rating: 5  ) House, Alexandria- Black rep. Always My Baby. Second Chance trope. (TBR) All I Want. Second Chance trope & Mental Health rep. (TBR) Merry Christmas, Baby. Workplace (TBR) Jingle- Mingle; Workplace trope. (TBR) New Year, New Boo? Workplace trope.(TBR)  Keys, Ashantay- Nuttin for Christmas. Best Friend’s Brother. (TBR) Lora, J.L- A Noche Buena for Lonely Hearts. Latine Rep. Just for the night. (TBR) Murphy, Julie & Simone, Sierra- Christmas Notch Series (TBR) A Merry Little Meet-Cute. Plus Size rep. A Holly Jolly Ever After. Workplace.  A Tingle Bell Mingle. One Night Stand Price, Jade- How the Monster Stole Me on Christmas Eve- Monster. (Rating: 4  ) Quinn, Meghan- Resting Scrooge Face. Novella (Rating: 4  ) Rhodes, Meg- Her Yuletide Troll. Plus Size Rep. Monster.  Small town trope. (TBR) Rose, Sedona- The Christmas Wish. Black Rep. Novella. (TBR) Stimpson, Michelle- Let It Snow. Black rep. Narrators: Kendrick Sampson & Jurnee Smollett (Rating: 4  ) Soliz, Leonor- Under the Meh-stletoe. Latine & Plus Sized Rep. Two Holiday Grumps. Small Town trope. (Rating:5  ) Warren, Mary- Taylor. Plus Size & Autism Rep. Snowed in for the Holiday trope. (Rating: 4  ) Valdez, A.E- Snow King Catches His Snowflake. Black Rep. Double booked cabin for the holiday. (Rating:5  )

The season finale of Dune: Prophecy  delivers everything we’ve come to expect from the series: high-stakes drama, shocking deaths, and revelations that reshape the narrative landscape. Episode 6, aptly titled “The High-Handed Enemy,” ties up key plot threads while leaving enough unresolved to propel us into the eagerly anticipated second season. Let’s start with Lila, a vessel for the Foremothers, whose portrayal by Chloe Lea deserves high praise. Lea’s nuanced performance masterfully conveys the distinct personalities of these “other memory” visitors. This time, it’s not Mother Superior Raquella speaking through Lila; instead, it’s Reverend Mother Dorotea, back from the dead with some unsettling truths about the Harkonnens. Through Lila, Dorotea reveals skeletons—both literal and figurative—from the Sisterhood’s past, exposing the bloody consequences of a schism within their order. We learn that Young Valya, alongside Tula, Francesca, and Kasha, orchestrated a brutal purge of Dorotea’s Butlerian followers. Using The Voice , they compelled Sisters to choose loyalty or death, leading to a devastating massacre. This rift is far from resolved, as Dorotea, with Emiline and Avila’s support, now physically dismantles Anirul’s systems in the Sisterhood’s secret chambers. The ideological battlelines are drawn, and the Order faces an uncertain future. Meanwhile, Tula embarks on a solo mission to Salusa Secundus to confront her estranged son, Desmond Hart. In a heart-wrenching sequence, we discover that Desmond’s deadly power comes from a micro-level thinking machine implanted against his will. Tula’s anguish is palpable as she declares, “My son was not born a weapon—he was made into one!” The identity of those responsible remains a mystery, but their connection to the Harkonnens and Arrakis looms ominously. Back at the imperial court, power shifts violently. Natalya consolidates her position, arresting her own daughter, Princess Ynez, for attempting to free Keiran Atreides. In a calculated move, she eliminates Sister Francesca with a cyanide-laced needle originally intended for Emperor Corrino, who takes his own life in a final act of agency. With the emperor dead, Natalya ascends to the throne, her alliance with Desmond Hart and his mind-burning abilities cementing her grip on power. The chaos in the imperial halls provides an opening for Valya, who has her shapeshifting acolyte assume Ynez’s identity. This subterfuge allows Valya, the real Ynez, and Keiran to escape Salusa Secundus aboard a cargo ship bound for Arrakis. Their escape is punctuated by a pitched battle at the spaceport, with Ynez and Keiran fighting back-to-back and Valya briefly reuniting with Tula. As the group reaches the windswept sands of Arrakis, a vision reveals to Valya the mechanical beings responsible for Desmond’s transformation. These entities, long observers of the Harkonnens and linked to the spice-producing planet, now emerge as key players in the unfolding saga. Determined to confront them on their terms, Valya declares, “If the shadows are where they want to fight, then that’s where I’ll go.” The episode concludes with Valya, Ynez, and Keiran standing on Arrakis’ desert expanse, resolved to take the fight to their unseen enemies. With the royal heir secured and her plans for Imperium control recalibrated, Valya’s path forward promises even greater intrigue and conflict. Season 2 of Dune: Prophecy  can’t come soon enough.

Landman opens under its now all-too familiar contemplative atmospheric music as an oil pumpjack slowly pulls liquid life from the ground in the glow of a West Texas sunrise. Now seven episodes in, the scene signals it is going to be another day of hard labor on The Patch, and the start of the latest installment of Taylor Sheridan’s oil-spired megahit on Paramount+. However, on this particular day, Billy Bob Thornton’s Tommy Norris finds himself at the hospital early — it’s release day for his son, Cooper (Jacob Lolfland).  In a surprise turn, young widow Ariana Medina (Paulina Chavez) has also arrived to be the one to take the battered and bruised young roughneck home. Despite Tommy’s protests of the two leaving together as being the worst of the all-time worst ideas, a defiant Ariana leaves with Cooper in tow to her house to continue his recovery from the brutal beating he took at the close of episode 5. Once there, Cooper winces and groans, as Ariana assists him to the only comforting bed in the house —  in, of all places, the master bedroom.  Cue the dramatic opening theme music. While you could see the signs on this from a mile away, the burgeoning Romeo-and-Juliet romance between Cooper and Ariana remains the standout storyline, as the series moves into the back half of its debut season. Outside of Thornton, Lofland and Chavez remain the only other two onscreen for the show allowed to explore any measure of depth in their characters. Their often tender and poignant scenes give the gritty oil drama the emotional beats it so desperately needs, and, perhaps, more importantly a reason for any us to care about life away from the oilfield. Despite his visible battle scars, Cooper and Ariana are physically beautiful together. And, when balancing an unexpected charm to the often complicated circumstances confronting the lead character, the young couple’s brief, yet refreshingly simple scenes work wonders at keeping audiences engaged, regardless of the fact they are never awash with elaborate dialogue. Meanwhile, across town, the same cannot often be said for the workout wonder twins, aka Tommy’s ex-wife/rekindled pseudo new wife, Angela (Ali Larter), and their coming-of-age daughter, Ainsley (Michelle Randolph). While there is always hope with each new episode, that these two characters, in particular, would be written with a modicum of more nuance and depth, we remain in the shallow end of the pool with them once again in this episode. In scenes rife with I-cannot-believe-that’s-the-dialogue moments, we are subjected to watching the two settle into their new lives in Midland. In these decidedly filler scenes, Angela educates her daughter about how life works. And, for a woman, apparently, that’s only through the use of her body to make a man happy, or, as we soon learn, killing time being the savior of the world at a nursing home, complete with supplying residents with homemade margaritas and spearheading a rousing round of Cards Against Humanity. What are we even doing, Taylor? For the love of Whataburger fries and ketchup, please give these women something more meaningful to do onscreen.  Nevertheless, to keep things moving on the other side of the equation, oil executive Monty Miller, played by Jon Hamm, makes his requisite single appearance for the episode. In his role serving as a reminder that there is an oil company that needs to be run here, he remains in Fort Worth wheeling and dealing his way to millions. When Monty calls Tommy to tell him about the deal he is working to seal on drilling for another company, Tommy reminds him of those pesky drug smugglers lurking behind the sagebrush, and his need for more people, protection, and permits to make this new payday a reality.  Back out in the field, Tommy and oil engineer Dale (James Jordan) begin the maintenance on their boss’ stagnant wells. As expected, the menacing drug cartel’s goons arrive within minutes to renew fresh threats of no drilling in the area until the smugglers are paid back for their product lost in the series’ season opener plane/tanker fire. Not one to bring a knife to a gunfight, Tommy digs his dusty heels in, as he stands prepared for this eventuality, this time, backed with a crew bringing more heat than the smugglers. And, though the latter retreat in response, it is a no-brainer for anyone paying attention, they will not be gone for long.  For all its support character flaws, the sharp and clever dialogue, reserved primarily for Thornton in each scene with his co-stars, does a decent job capturing the absurdities of his grizzled landsman’s daily situations. This plays out in vivid technicolor in the closing minutes of the show, when Tommy, by order of his wife, finds himself dealing with his daughter’s potentially promiscuous social life at her first Patch party by car light in the West Texas desert, and the daddy-daughter sex talk no one should have wanted.  Despite Landman’s hightlighting of the realities of big oil life, thematically, it continues to skirt the idea of diving too deep into the controversial issues surrounding it, such as environmental concerns, corporate ethics, or the impact of land ownership, often present with its cinematic Montana cousin, Yellowstone . Instead, the narrative continues to centers directly on Tommy’s desperate attempt at finding a plausible work-life balance, whether he asked to do so or not. Showcasing both the humorous and often tragic consequences of life working in the oil industry, as well as the even more complicated navigation of his unconventional family life, the show continues to resonate well each week with contemporary audiences for its character-driven storytelling, as evidenced by the attraction of more than 650 million minutes of viewing across just three of the show’s episodes.  Nevertheless, Thornton’s portrayal of the titular character, himself, as the weathered roughneck for life that strikes liquid gold for the series. As the episodes unfold each week, viewers find themselves more and more invested in his world, no doubt, in a desperate effort to find out whether it will be  the work or the life that ultimately gets the better of everyone’s favorite landman.  Created by Taylor Sheridan and Christian Wallace, Landman streams each week on Sundays. Watch it from the very beginning on Paramount+.

The Six Triple Eight should have been about the amazing feat of an all-Black women Battalion sorting through 17 million pieces of mail, but Perry’s laziness made it a Romantic Drama.  The opening scene of a tired soldier whining his way through the war-torn trenches of San Pietro in 1943 gives the viewer a promise that this historic story will be taken seriously. But that is quickly deflated as bombs start dropping and soldiers are killed off through hilariously unrealistic effects.   Before long we are placed a year earlier into the semi- sunny “romance” of Lena Derriecott (Ebony Obsidian) and her love interest Abram David (Gregg Sulkin) who just so happens to be white and Jewish. Now you may be thinking what does an interracial romance have to do with the only all-Black women battalion that served in Europe. Well, if you’re Tyler Perry it’s the literal engine that stores the story’s plot.   Though it is clear that the building of their romance and eventual death of Abram is what drives Lena to enlist; it is not clear why Perry feels the need to insert a romance in this story at all, when there’s so much historic context to go off. We get a lot of info about Lena’s feelings for Abram by his ghost literally haunting her throughout the movie. Yet, we barely get any real substance of why these women joined the army.  One of Perry’s best attributes is he has no trouble getting amazing actors to star in his productions. Yet, their performances always seem stunted by his one- sided vision.  The Six Triple Eight  is no exception when Kerry Washington takes center stage as Captain Charity Adams.   Washington’s character takes the brunt of the racist and sexist comments which is thrown around so carelessly throughout the movie that it’s hard to take seriously. This gives the dialogue a flat one-dimensional perspective that leaves little room for any nuanced conversation within the movie. It paints every white character as racist or complacent, and every black character as the victim of this racism with no real way to stand up for themselves. Unless you see a lot of grandstanding that gets cut short, by whatever racist comment Perry feels the need to insert in the story without actually flushing out the intricacies of what it meant to be Black and a woman in the army at this time as redemption.  Furthermore, Perry’s use of his supporting actors like Oprah as Mary McLeod Bethune, Susan Sarandon as Eleanor Roosevelt, Shanice Williams as Johnnie Mae and Sarah Jeffery as Dolores Washington is downright abhorrent.  Perry is too focused on a grand love story that was never there to put any real substance into the characters that actually shaped this historic event. He steps right into his stereotypical writing when it comes to Johnnie Mae, portraying her as an ignorant, comic relief because of her weight. While simultaneously painting Dolores as the voice of reason in the group because she is light skin.   He also makes Eleanor Roosevelt seem like a loopy ditz and just places Mary McLeod Bethune (Oprah) in the movie for the purpose of telling us why the 6888th Battalion is qualified for the job instead of showing us.  We do get some facts about the process used to sort through the mail in the last 20 minutes of the movie. I just wish we got more information about the women and their sisterhood, rather than the love story between Lena and Ahram and then Lena and Hugh Bell (Jay Reeves) which Perry forced the story to stand on.  Perry has stated that the script only took him two weeks to write, and it is evident in the way he struggles to show us who the women of the 6888th battalion was and lazily tells us what he assumes them to be. It truly makes you wonder if this story would have been better utilized in the hands of someone who more closely resembled the women of the story.

The Fire Inside  tells the story of Claressa Shields, the greatest female boxer of all time (yeah – I said it and you will too after seeing this film). At an early screening for the film, I found myself instantly drawn in. Claressa grew up in Flint, Michigan, where she faced many challenges, but one thing she could count on was finding that safe space at a local boxing gym. Despite being the only girl there, she never let that stop her.  What I found to be beautiful about the storytelling in this film is that it emphasized the connection between Claressa (played by Ryan Destiny - Grown-ish and Star ) and her coach, Jason Crutchfield (played by Brian Tyree Henry - If Beale Street Could Talk ). He saw something in her, a fire inside  (pun intended) that doesn’t come around that often. Seeing her potential, he took it upon himself to nurture her natural talent and by 2011, when Claressa was only in high school, helped her qualify for the 2012 Olympic trials.  Courtesy of Amazon MGM Studios Barry Jenkins (writer - Moonlight, If Beale Street Could Talk ) says “This is both as honest  a story, and as patriotic  a story, about the American dream as you could possibly make.” Not only that, Jenkins wanted to accurately portray the connection between Claressa and Jason. Similar to Claressa, he grew up without a father and his coaches “were kind of [...] father figures” to him. This was evident when you saw how Jason motivated Claressa to be the best boxer she could be, and how Claressa is more at ease during a match when she knows Jason is there backing her up.  This isn’t much of a spoiler, but at the 2012 Olympics in London, Claressa won the gold medal. You’d think with achieving this great victory, and at such a young age, there would be endorsement offers overflowing with companies fighting for the chance to work with Claressa, but no. Even at the pinnacle of success, Claressa learned quickly about the inequality she’d face as a female athlete.  Courtesy of Amazon MGM Studios Throughout her career, Shields remained true to herself– being self-assured the entire time stating “I came into professional boxing being myself, and not allowing anyone to change me. But I had conversations with my team where they said, ‘Can you be more like this, or like that? Can you not be like this or like that?’ And [...] I think the hardest part of things was having to look at the people on my team, look them in the eye and tell them, ‘I’m going to do this my  way.’” Courtesy of Amazon MGM Studios This feeling of empowerment is showcased beautifully in the film as well and I must say Ryan gives the performance of her lifetime with this one. On playing the teenage and young adult Claressa in the film, Ryan notes that “Shields is such an inspiring person. I felt the importance of the film, and portraying her [...] it’s something that I do not take lightly at all. I know this is such an important and unique story for us to tell.” Ryan’s ability to make the audience feel the frustration of achieving the highest placement in the Olympics and then going back to regular life as if nothing has happened should be studied. I found myself wanting to join the fight alongside her.  As I’ve previously mentioned, Claressa is very self-assured and has always advocated for herself. Which is why it comes as no surprise to learn that during her Olympic journey (going for the Gold again at the 2014 Olympics Games), she was successful in her pursuit against the Olympic board to increase stipend afforded to female athletes to compete with male athletes. A fact that I was glad to see make it into the film.  Courtesy of Amazon MGM Studios There were some parts of the film I wish they’d expand on (e.g. how a fall out with Claressa and her mother was resolved) but I’ll chalk it up to a time constraint. Despite that, The Fire Inside is a must-see film that will leave you walking out of the theater truly inspired. Catch it in theaters Christmas Day.

Admittedly, I had no idea who Bob Dylan was when I caught an early screening of A Complete Unknown , but I left the theater a new fan. James Mangold’s new film about the rise of one of the most iconic singer/songwriters explores a specific moment in Bob Dylan’s life rather than telling the entire story. We get the beginning of his story, his rise to fame, and that iconic moment at the Newport Folk Festival. I believe this choice is what makes this movie a must watch whether you’re a fan or not.  I walked into the theater fully prepared to be unimpressed with this film if I’m being completely honest. Not only did I not know who this story was about (sorry, Bob Dylan), I was afraid that it would do what most biopics do, and that’s tell an unfulfilling story; one that isn’t compelling enough to keep the audience engaged, but I was happy to be proven wrong. From the moment the movie started, I found myself wanting to learn everything about this Bobby Dylan person. Timothée Chalamet does this thing where he makes Bobby both likeable and insufferable at the same time.  Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures Before this film, I wouldn’t consider myself a fan of folk music – is that even a thing anymore? The music in this film, however, had my foot tapping and fingers snapping without knowing a single word. What was interesting to me was seeing the transition of Bob’s music from folk to the rebellious electric style. What I believe the audience will enjoy about this film is that it’s not unnecessarily dragged out with how that transition came to be and how Bob’s fans responded to that shift.  Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures Music plays a major part of this film –obviously, and knowing that Timothée performed Bob Dylan’s iconic songs himself, adds an extra appreciation to the material. He’s been preparing for this role for about five years, and believe me when I say, that fact is proven throughout this film. Production mixer, Tod A. Maitland, says that they’ve “done this movie 98% live”. There was this scene where Bob Dylan plays Carnegie Hall, and Maitland said that before that scene was shot, they were going to use playback, but Timothée insisted on “going live” – loved this choice because it was one of my favorite scenes.  Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures Should you go see A Complete Unknown ? I vote – yes! Whether you’re a fan of Bob Dylan or not, there’s something about this film that I believe will ignite a love for a genre of music that is making a comeback. Bob Dylan’s quick rise to stardom and his ability to captivate audiences is beautifully displayed in this film. Timothée Chalamet’s accurate portrayal of  Bob Dylan’s mannerisms (I had to search for old footage to make sure it wasn’t exaggerated) makes you feel like you’re back in the 1960s meeting young Bobby Dylan for the first time. A Complete Unknown releases in theaters Christmas Day.