‘The Flash’ Season 7 Episode 8 Recap: “The People V. Killer Frost” Review

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May 5, 2021

The Flash Season 7 Episode 8 — Danielle Panabaker as Caitlin Snow in ‘The Flash’ season 7 episode 8 (Photo: Bettina Strauss © 2021 The CW Network, LLC)

Redemption, self-sacrifice, and betrayal are at the heart of The CW’s The Flash season seven episode eight. The episode begins with Kristen Kramer (Carmen Moore) approving the security and safeguards at a place called Advanced Research Group.

At S.T.A.R. Labs, Team Flash is talking about what to expect at Frost’s sentencing (seems the ice queen decided to skip a trial and plead guilty). Frost (Danielle Panabaker) is ready to pay for the crimes she committed but Caitlin (also Danielle Panabaker) is desperate for Frost to get a light sentence, fearing losing her. An alarm sounds informing the team the Strength Force is in Keystone City. Frost knows Barry is hesitant to leave because of her sentencing hearing, and she and Speed Force Nora (Michelle Harrison) assure him he needs to handle it.

In court, Cecile (Danielle Nicolet) defends Frost and pushes for a light sentence, reminding the judge that Frost has changed and saved lives. Cecile claims Frost only wants to work alongside The Flash to protect the citizens of Central City. The prosecution argues that Killer Frost must pay for her crimes and asks for no jail time but instead that she be forced to take the meta cure which will eliminate her powers forever.

A little later, Caitlin, Cecile, Cisco (Carlos Valdes), Allegra (Kayla Compton), Joe (Jesse L. Martin), and Frost talk during a recess about the new goal the prosecution’s after. They know it comes from Kramer who Frost says has been targeting her since the day she arrived in Central City. Caitlin’s panicking, fearing if Frost is forced to take the cure it might kill her since she was created by her cold DNA powers.

Joe doesn’t understand why Kramer’s going after Frost so hard and wants to find out more about her. Frost reminds everyone she wants to plea her case the right way and tells Caitlin and the others not to try to do anything sneaky or under the radar to help her. When Frost leaves the room, Caitlin, Cisco, and Allegra team up to talk about a plan to save Frost at all costs.

Over in Keystone City, Speed Force Nora and Barry look for the Strength Force but their search takes them to an outreach program. They locate a social worker for the program named Alexa Rivera (Sara Garcia).

Caitlin shows up to the CCPD and distracts the officer at the desk saying she needs to get some personal effects that were never returned to her when she was in a few weeks ago. This allows Allegra to sneak by and place a device Cisco created that should destroy the meta-human cure stored at the CCPD.

Cisco knocks out the security cameras so that Allegra can get to the storage area without being seen. All is going well until Kramer walks out of an office and runs right into Allegra. Cisco alerts Caitlin using the comms and tells her to go help Allegra who’s telling Kramer she’s there to interview her. When Kramer says she doesn’t know what she is talking about Allegra explains she just needs five minutes and if she doesn’t get the interview her boss will chew her out.

Kramer agrees to the interview and as they are walking Allegra uses her powers to create a power surge, knocking out a few lights so she can drop the device unseen and unheard. Caitlin quickly grabs the device from the ground and puts it on the door to the storage room. Cisco activates it and a shock wave destroys the meta cure.

Barry and Speed Force Nora talk to Alexa and try to convince her to come with them to S.T.A.R. Labs to get tested because they think the Strength Force might be inside her. Upset and not putting up with Speed Force Nora’s pushy attitude, Alexa refuses.

Back at S.T.A.R. Labs, Barry and Speed Force Nora argue about how to handle Alexa. Nora wants to force her to take the test by speeding her to the lab to do it. Iris (Candice Patton) interjects and tells Nora that’s not who Barry is or how he handles things.

Back in court, Cecile has Joe testify on Frost’s character. In a touching scene, Joe tells the judge and everyone in court that Frost did commit the crimes she’s charged with but she has spent the last few years not only saving him but also the citizens of Central City – and, in fact, the world. “Everyone here in this courtroom owes their lives to Frost,” says Joe. He closes by saying he doesn’t understand how the court could even consider forcing her to take the meta cure because that’s not enforcing justice.

The judge is moved by Joe’s words and is about to give her ruling when the prosecution interrupts. They have new evidence that someone sabotaged the security cameras and destroyed the meta-cure at CCPD. Frost claims she didn’t do it she’s been in court and in custody. Kramer tells the court she has a new replicated version of the cure to give to Frost.

Caitlin stands up and admits it was all her doing and begs the court not to convict Frost. The judge slams down her gavel and demands order. Once the courtroom is quiet, she explains she’ll retire to her chambers and make her decision.

In the defense’s room, Frost asks to speak to Caitlin in private. Frost scolds Caitlin for doing exactly what she asked her not to do. Caitlin pleads for her to understand she did it to protect her and can’t bear the idea of losing her.

Caitlin receives a message from their mom that says Frost won’t die if she takes the cure, she’ll just be human.

Caitlin’s happy, but to her surprise and horror Frost refuses to take it. Frost claims that if she’s forced to take the cure it sets a precedent that any meta-human who does something the government disapproves of will be forced to take it as well. She tells an upset Caitlin that if she takes the cure, it will end who she is and Caitlin will still wind up losing her.

Over in Keystone City, The Flash appeals to Alexa to work with Barry. Alexa breaks down and admits she was there when the electrical storm happened in Central City and ever since has been suffering blackouts. She fears she might have the Strength Force inside her. The Flash assures her she can trust Barry and she agrees to go to S.T.A.R. Labs to be tested.

Kramer is expecting to meet with Joe in an interview room but is surprised to see Frost there instead. Frost asks her if she hurt someone she cared about or loved, and Kramer says no. Frost pushes back demanding to know why Kramer is gunning for her and Kramer tells her she hates evil metahumans and confesses she lost a whole platoon to a meta who betrayed her. Frost realizes Kramer’s goal is to go after all metas.

The following day Caitlin and Frost have a chat. Caitlin apologizes to Frost and Frost tells her about Kramer’s real agenda. Frost admits she doesn’t care what happens to her but wants to protect all the other metas. Caitlin has an idea of how to save them and stop Kramer.

Back in court, Frost’s allowed to make a statement before the judge delivers her decision. Frost tells the court that taking away a meta humans’ powers is basically erasing their identity. She asks, “Shouldn’t justice be changing how a person acts not how they were born?!”

Frost continues, explaining she’s changed. She learned that by protecting people she became selfless instead of selfish. She closes her statement by submitting a request for life in prison without parole.

Kramer tries to interject saying the prosecution wants to give Frost the cure, but the judge tells Kramer to be silent and sit down. The judge asks Frost if she understands what she’s asking for and she confirms she does. The judge sentences Frost to life in prison.

A slow-motion scene of Frost walking out of court handcuffed plays, showing she’s allowed to hug Caitlin one final time before being taken away to prison.

Later that night, Kramer says goodbye to Joe at his office and tells him despite their differences she respects him. He admits she’s a good cop but suggests she needs to check which side of the line she’s on.

Barry gets Alexa ready to be tested at S.T.A.R. Labs. She’s terrified she might have the Strength Force inside her, but Barry assures her if she does, he’ll help her. He runs the test and the Strength Force begins to appear. Barry quickly shuts it down and Alexa wakes up scared, asking what she’s going to do now. Barry tells her she’ll be all right and promises they’ll help her deal with this. Just then Speed Force Nora hits Alexa with a large blast of lightning.

Nora tells Barry and Iris they don’t understand Alexa will kill her to get what she wants. Barry argues that they can help Alexa, but Nora insists Barry should be helping her. Nora blames Iris for talking Barry into trying to help Alexa and prepares to blast her with lightning. Barry uses his speed and his own lightning to protect her but Speed Force Nora instead creates a lightning ball combining her and Barry’s energy and strikes an already unconscious Alexa.

Iris runs over to what appears to be a now-dead Alexa. Speed Force Nora stands there full of glowing electricity and says, “Time to choose a side, Barry.”

The Flash Season 7 Episode 8 Review:

Dramatic but lacking any real action or much suspense, season seven episode eight titled “The People V. Killer Frost” wraps up the prosecution of Frost all too fast and closes the best storyline of season seven with an overly dramatic and unsatisfying ending. It’s also far too reminiscent of the episode in season four featuring Barry Allen being on trial for murder. Perhaps the biggest problem with season seven – and the series since season five – is the constant reuse and retooling of storylines and episodes which were done extremely well the first time around.

The highlight of this episode is the exceptional performance delivered by Danielle Panabaker. Her scenes opposite herself as both Caitlin and Frost arguing and confessing their fears and love for each other are the strongest scenes in the episode. Panabaker displays just the right amount of emotion as Caitlin first shows her true anxiety and fear of losing Frost, her sister, and later the heartbreak of Caitlin looking at a piece of art Frost created as she’s headed to prison. It’s perhaps one of the most moving performances of the show’s run. She deserves an Emmy nomination for her performance. (It won’t happen.)

With the realization of Speed Force Nora being a deadly entity to deal with, Team Flash will have their work cut out since they’re more vulnerable than ever with Frost in prison.

GRADE: B-

Tom Hiddleston Announces New ‘Loki’ Premiere Date

By

Rebecca Murray

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May 5, 2021

Tom Hiddleston declares Wednesdays are the new Fridays in the short video announcing the new premiere date of Marvel Studios’ Loki. The upcoming original series focusing on the God of Mischief moved up its premiere date and will now arrive on Wednesday, June 9, 2021 on Disney+.

In addition to Tom Hiddleston, the cast of the much-anticipated comic book-inspired series includes Owen Wilson, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Sophia Di Martino, Wunmi Mosaku, and Richard E. Grant. The live-action series was directed by Kate Herron with Michael Waldron serving as the head writer.

The Plot:

Marvel Studios’ Loki features the God of Mischief as he steps out of his brother’s shadow in a new Disney+ series that takes place after the events of Avengers: Endgame.

Tom Hiddleston as Loki — Loki (Tom Hiddleston) in Marvel Studios’ LOKI exclusively on Disney+. (Photo courtesy of Marvel Studios © Marvel Studios 2020)

‘House of the Dragon’ – First Photos from the ‘Game of Thrones’ Prequel

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Rebecca Murray

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May 5, 2021

The first official photos have arrived in support of HBO’s first Game of Thrones spinoff/prequel, House of the Dragon. The upcoming fantasy series is based on George R.R. Martin’s Fire & Blood.

Martin serves as co-creator and executive producer. Co-creator Ryan Condal writes, executive produces, and is the co-showrunner along with Miguel Sapochnik. Executive producer Sapochnik directed the pilot as well as additional season one episodes.

Vince Gerardis, writer Sara Hess, and Ron Schmidt also executive produce. Geeta V. Patel, Greg Yaitanes, and Clare Kilner are involved with the series as directors.

HBO is currently in production on House of the Dragon and is targeting a 2022 premiere.

HBO confirmed the following cast details and plot synopsis:

“The series, which is set 200 years before the events of Game of Thrones, tells the story of House Targaryen.”

Emma D’Arcy as “Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen”: The king’s first-born child, she is of pure Valyrian blood, and she is a dragonrider. Many would say that Rhaenyra was born with everything… but she was not born a man.
Matt Smith as “Prince Daemon Targaryen”: The younger brother to King Viserys and heir to the throne. A peerless warrior and a dragonrider, Daemon possesses the true blood of the dragon. But it is said that whenever a Targaryen is born, the gods toss a coin in the air…
Steve Toussaint as “Lord Corlys Velaryon” (“The Sea Snake”): Lord of House Velaryon, a Valyrian bloodline as old as House Targaryen. As “The Sea Snake,” the most famed nautical adventurer in the history of Westeros, Lord Corlys built his house into a powerful seat that is even richer than the Lannisters and that claims the largest navy in the world.
Olivia Cooke as “Alicent Hightower”: The daughter of Otto Hightower, the Hand of the King, and the most comely woman in the Seven Kingdoms. She was raised in the Red Keep, close to the king and his innermost circle; she possesses both a courtly grace and a keen political acumen.
Rhys Ifans as “Otto Hightower”: The Hand of the King, Ser Otto loyally and faithfully serves both his king and his realm. As the Hand sees it, the greatest threat to the realm is the king’s brother, Daemon, and his position as heir to the throne.

‘9-1-1’ Season 4 Episode 12 Photos: “Treasure Hunt” Preview

By

Rebecca Murray

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May 5, 2021

The hunt for $5 million in buried treasure has the team slammed with rescues on Fox’s 9-1-1 season four episode 12. “Treasure Hunt” will air on May 10, 2021 at 8pm ET/PT.

Season four’s cast includes executive producer Angela Bassett as Athena Grant, executive producer Peter Krause as Bobby Nash, and Jennifer Love Hewitt as Maddie Kendall. Oliver Stark plays Evan “Buck” Buckley, Aisha Hinds is Henrietta “Hen” Wilson, Kenneth Choi is Howie “Chimney” Han, Ryan Guzman plays Eddie Diaz, and Rockmond Dunbar is Michael Grant.

“Treasure Hunt” Plot: When a famous mystery writer dies, Athena, Bobby and the 118 respond to the chaos caused by a city-wide manhunt for buried treasure the author left behind.

Series Description, Courtesy of Fox:

Creators Ryan Murphy, Brad Falchuk and Tim Minear reimagine the procedural drama with 9-1-1, exploring the high-pressure experiences of police officers, firefighters and dispatchers who are thrust into the most frightening, shocking and heart-stopping situations. These emergency responders must try to balance saving those who are at their most vulnerable with solving the problems in their own lives.

9-1-1 Season 4 Episode 12 — Oliver Stark, Peter Krause, Ryan Guzman, Kenneth Choi and Aisha Hinds in ‘9-1-1’ season 4 episode 12 (Photo by Jack Zeman © 2021 FOX Media LLC)

‘Mayans M.C.’ Season 3 Episode 9 Recap: “The House of Death Floats By”

By

Rebecca Murray

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May 4, 2021

Mayans MC Season 3 Episode 9 — JD Pardo as EZ Reyes and Clayton Cardenas as Angel Reyes in ‘Mayans M.C.’ season 3 episode 9 (Photo by Prashant Gupta/FX)

FX’s Mayans M.C. season three episode nine, the season’s penultimate episode, finds the Santo Padre chapter briefly increasing their ranks, Miguel seeking revenge for his mother’s murder, and Coco in dire straits. Episode nine, “The House of Death Floats By,” ends with EZ dropping a bombshell that could alter Bishop’s plans.

Episode nine opens with EZ (JD Pardo) in jail after getting into a brawl while out for ice cream with Gaby. Angel (Clayton Cardenas) bails EZ out and picks his bro up from jail. The two have a heart-to-heart and Angel reveals he saw Adelita. She’s definitely not doing well, and Angel only shakes his head no when EZ asks about the baby.

“When she showed back up out of the blue like that, I told myself don’t ever let her out of your sight,” says Angel. Adelita left and Angel blames himself for not being enough for her.

EZ laughs when Angel suggests Nails might be the one but turns serious when Angel confesses Nails is pregnant. Angel swears he won’t mess up this time and EZ thinks he’ll be a great dad. EZ suggests Angel better start using a condom but Angel’s not sure that would make a difference. “I got that 100-proof baby juice,” jokes Angel.

Over at the Galindo estate, Emily (Sarah Bolger) smiles as she examines the bruises on her neck left by Miguel. Although she initially appears content, her smile fades as she takes meds and then attempts to use makeup to cover the bruises.

Coco (Richard Cabral) slowly makes his way out of the bedroom and into the living room. Leticia (Emily Tosta) spent the night cleaning and the place is spotless. Leticia apologizes for going off on him and explains she’s pulled together a list of rehabs. She thinks the club can help pay for it. Coco is adamant that won’t work. If the club finds out he’s shooting up they would kill him.

When Leticia reveals Hope snuck out during the night, Coco begins panicking. He knows she’ll be killed if she returns to the drug camp, but Leticia doesn’t want him to leave. She begs him not to choose Hope over her. Coco leaves anyway, ignoring Leticia’s pleas.

Elsewhere, Bishop (Michael Irby) and Ibarra (Mike Beltran) discuss Bishop’s new plan without going into details. Bishop reveals only EZ knows what’s in store for now. He’ll let the guys party a little when Creeper and Pavia return, and then he’ll put the plan into action.

Bishop assures Ibarra he’ll never forget everything he’s done for the club and declares Canche will be dead by sundown tomorrow.

And speaking of Canche… The Yuma president is summoned to meet with El Banquero by Vatos Malditos’ president, El Palo (Gregory Cruz). Palo believes Canche should work a deal with El Banquero to procure heroin, cutting out Santo Padre and making Yuma the pipeline instead. El Banquero hints Galindo will be taken out of the picture.

Palo wants to patch over to the Mayans M.C. Yuma charter and help take out Bishop and Santo Padre.

EZ shows up at the butcher shop looking for Gaby and Felipe (Edward James Olmos) explains he sent her home because of the injuries to her face. EZ confesses as a child he looked through his mom’s book of Goya paintings and one struck a nerve. He says the painting of a dog swimming in the ocean (known as “The Dog”) expresses how he’s felt his entire life. He’s always believed he was going to be swallowed up by something and has unsuccessfully tried to lock that away. EZ admits what he’s done for the club weighs heavily on his shoulders and Gaby is his only lifeline. “I can’t lose her, Pop,” says EZ.

Over at the Galindo estate, Emily returns from a jog and gets into it with her sister, Erin, when she notices the bruises. Emily tries to play them off but Erin’s having none of it. Erin can’t believe Miguel attempted to strangle her and reminds Emily what Miguel is. Emily turns the argument around, reminding Erin she always comes crawling back to her and Miguel when she needs help.

“You stay in this house and you’re going to f*ck your kid up, too,” says Erin.

Emily gets defensive and grabs her checkbook. She’s ready to write a check to get rid of her sister, and Erin claims she only came when Miguel asked because she thought Emily needed her. Erin refuses to take any money and leaves.

Miguel (Danny Pino) is out at the spot where Dita died when Marcus Alvarez (Emilio Rivera) pulls up. Marcus brings his gun with him as he exits the vehicle, noting Nestor’s already there. Miguel reveals Nestor just told him about the motorcycle tracks he discovered near Dita’s dead body.

Miguel knows his mother was murdered and Nestor keeps Marcus out of trouble by claiming he’s the only one who noticed the tracks. Miguel explains Nestor was afraid of what it could mean when he found the tracks. He tells Marcus that Emily and EZ conspired to kill his mother and have been laughing at him behind his back.

Miguel tests Marcus’ loyalty by ordering him to kill EZ.

EZ heads over to Gaby’s house and is initially told she’s gone. Gaby (Sulem Calderon) finally comes to the door so they can talk about what happened. Her face is puffy and she has a black eye, and EZ apologizes. Gaby knows what happened had nothing to do with her and everything to do with who EZ is. She believes he can’t help himself and she’s done putting up with violent behavior.

Gaby reminds EZ he made a choice to be part of the club and has no problem flirting with death. She wants to distance herself from darkness and has decided to move to Lodi to be with her family and attend nursing school. Gaby loves EZ and believes if he loves her, he’ll let her go.

Back at the clubhouse, Steve (Momo Rodriguez) is having a really difficult time dealing with the fact he shot and killed a man. Hank (Frankie Loyal), Gilly (Vincent Vargas), and Taza (Raoul Max Trujillo) toss him their keys – and spout a few what the f*ck, Steve’s while doing so – before sending him off to clean their bikes.

After Steve heads out, Hank and Nails (Justina Adorno) have a chat. She’s just about to tell him about Angel when Angel walks in. Before Hank heads into the club’s meeting, he asks Nails if she wants to come to dinner with him and his mom. Nails says yes and Hank is all smiles.

EZ’s running late for the meeting when Steve asks to speak with him. Initially, EZ brushes him off but then changes his mind. Steve explains he’s having a rough time and can’t stop thinking about the guy he killed. EZ tells him to put it away, to lock it away because this is what they signed up for.

“This is who we are. Everything else is a f*cking lie,” says EZ.

The club celebrates the return of Creeper (Joseph Raymond Lucero) and Pavia (Roel Navarro), and this time it’s Creeper who delivers the “what the f*ck” line to Steve. Steve appears confused as Hank demands he remove his jacket. Steve places it on the table and is completely shocked when Bishop reveals they’re about to shed dead weight. Coco is out!

Bishop acknowledges Steve’s only been there four months yet they voted this afternoon to make him a member. Steve is no longer a prospect.

The club welcomes him on board, but Steve’s expression never changes. He looks lost as he stares at his new jacket.

Angel has the music turned down as she grabs Nails. He gets everyone’s attention and then holds up Nails’ hand. She’s wearing an engagement ring and a huge smile as Angel announces he’s off the market.

He accepts congrats from the club before making his way to his brother. EZ realizes Nails is wearing their mother’s ring and tells his big bro their mom would be proud of him.

It’s pitch dark when Coco arrives at the drug camp. He’s in the process of retrieving Hope when he’s stopped at the trailer door by a shotgun-wielding druggie. Butterfly (Spenser Granese) takes Coco’s gun as Isaac (JR Bourne) welcomes him back.

Coco’s strung up and gagged as Isaac wipes him down with a wet rag. He explains Hope was simply a lure to get Coco to keep coming back. Isaac says Hope didn’t know that’s what she was doing so Coco shouldn’t be angry with her.

Isaac reminds Coco he tried to steal pills from the group and he refused to bring them more heroin. Coco struggles against his restraints as Isaac injects him with heroin. Isaac explains he’s going to take every bit of Hope from Coco.

Miguel returns home to find Emily standing by the pool, smoking. He notices there’s something wrong and Emily reveals Erin’s gone and it’s probably for good this time. She confesses she said awful things and Miguel comforts her while admitting it’ll be nice to have the house to themselves.

Later that evening, Miguel draws a bath and sprinkles it with rose petals. Emily relaxes in the tub as Miguel pours her a glass of wine. They chat and laugh, and then Miguel heads to the kitchen to retrieve more wine.

Out of sight in the kitchen, Miguel stirs Emily’s prescription medication into the wine. He returns to the bathroom and hands it to her. She looks completely content as she smiles while sipping her drink. Moments later, Emily begins to realize something’s wrong as she struggles to hold her eyes open. She passes out and Miguel removes the glass from her hands then gently caresses her face. He uses just one hand to push her head under the water. She doesn’t struggle and continues to sleep as the pace of the bubbles on the water’s surface decreases.

Miguel leaves her that way and heads to their bedroom. He sits on the floor, crying, as he thinks about what he’s done. Suddenly he rises to his feet and races to the bathroom. He retrieves Emily’s body from underwater and she spits out water but doesn’t wake up.

He carries her to their bedroom and places her on their bed as she gags. Miguel apologizes and holds her as she continues coughing, eyes still closed.

Meanwhile in Mexico, Governor Sederica Palomo (Mia Maestro) delivers a speech condemning the Galindo cartel. Adelita’s young rebels have infiltrated the crowd and launch an attack that forces Palomo’s bodyguards to rush her away.

Palomo’s hustled to safety in a bathroom and locked in with one guard. He checks out the stalls and only makes it to the second door before he’s shot. Adelita (Carla Baratta) and Mini (Melany Ochoa) emerge from the stalls, and Adelita reminds Palomo she turned her back on the people she swore to protect – as did Miguel Galindo.

Palomo begs for her life but to no avail. Mini declares she’s Adelita as she viciously stabs Palomo over and over again. Adelita finally makes her stop.

Mini says, “Kill the devils,” as Adelita pulls her in for a hug.

The club’s still partying when Steve reverts to his prospect ways and tries to clean up empty beer bottles. Creeper reminds him he’s patched now and makes him take a seat. Bishop’s telling a story and EZ raises his bottle to acknowledge Steve’s achievement.

Steve, however, looks like someone’s just shot his dog.

Everyone at the table’s enjoying Bishop’s story except Steve. He glances around the table at his new brothers and then says, “Sorry, EZ. I don’t think I can put it away.”

EZ screams but it’s too late. Steve places the gun in his mouth and pulls the trigger.

Adelita and Mini are alone at a remote location when Adelita tells the young girl she’s leaving. Adelita claims she has to put the final part of their plan into action by herself. They say their goodbyes, with the adult Adelita passing on her name to the young rebel.

“Adios, Adelita,” says Mini.

“Hola, Adelita,” responds Adelita, brushing away the young girl’s tears.

EZ drives over to Gaby’s place and bangs on the door. She asks him not to make their goodbye harder than it already is and EZ shocks her by declaring he’s going with her. “I choose you,” says EZ.

Mayans M.C. season three’s final episode, “Chapter the Last, Nothing More to Write,” will air on May 11, 2021. The just-announced fourth season is expected to arrive in 2022.

‘Big Sky’ Season 1 Episode 14 Recap: “Nice Animals”

By

Rebecca Murray

-

May 4, 2021

Big Sky Season 1 Episode 14 — Kyle Schmid, Michelle Forbes, Ryan Dorsey, and Britt Robertson in ‘Big Sky’ episode 14 (ABC/Darko Sikman)

ABC’s Big Sky season one episode 14 picks up with Jenny (Katheryn Winnick) injured and Angela dead after Rand crashed his truck into Jenny’s hotel room. The Kleinsassers needed to take Jenny out because she was getting too close to discovering the truth about what’s going on at their ranch. Unfortunately, Angela paid the ultimate price for helping Jenny with her investigation.

Jenny warns Sheriff Wagy (Sebastian Roché) she’s onto him and knows he’s an accessory in the Kleinsassers’ crimes. She blames him for Angela’s death and warns him he won’t get away with this.

Cassie (Kylie Bunbury) and Mark (Omar Metwally) are still working the crime scene at Mary’s house. They’re sure Ronald attacked her, but haven’t located her body. Instead of Mary’s corpse, they found a male who’s been dead quite a while wrapped up and stored in a freezer.

Mark’s certain Ronald will slip up soon, and he’s equally sure Ronald’s been watching them.

Jerrie (Jesse James Keitel) helps out at the crime scene and fills Mark in on Mary’s family. She’s learned Mary has a sister named Scarlet who lives nearby.

Sheriff Wagy confronts Horst Kleinsasser (Ted Levine), demanding to know if he ordered the attack on Jenny and Angela. Horst claims he’s innocent and didn’t know Angela would be killed. Sheriff Wagy reveals witnesses put Rand at the scene of the crime. Wagy’s also aware Angela told Jenny about the Kleinsassers criminal activities. Although Sheriff Wagy has covered for Horst for years, he’s drawing the line at the death of one of his people.

Cheyenne (Britt Robertson) pops up from the backseat of Sheriff Wagy’s car as he’s preparing to leave. He warns Cheyenne she doesn’t know who she’s messing with, but Cheyenne doesn’t back down. She claims she has the upper hand and suggests he not underestimate her.

It’s late at night when Ronald (Brian Geraghty) shows up at Scarlet’s place with his newly purchased big rig. He wants Scarlet and her young daughter Phoebe to leave right away on a surprise camping trip, promising they’ll have a lot of fun in the wilderness. He makes the camping trip sound irresistible and says he’s in a hurry to get started.

Horst interrogates his sons, and Rand (Ryan Dorsey) admits he came up with the idea to drive the truck through the hotel. J.W. (Kyle Schmid) reveals Cheyenne’s been talking to Jenny, which only serves to make Horst even angrier. Horst instructs the boys to dig Blake’s grave and then they’ll figure out what to do with the barrels out in the back pasture. He threatens their lives if they screw up again.

Jenny’s back at the detective agency and nursing her injured face when Cassie suggests she see a doctor. Jenny doesn’t have time for that but does have time to blame herself for Angela’s death. Denise (Dedee Pfeiffer) wonders how Rand knew she was meeting Angela. They don’t believe Wagy told the Kleinsassers, but Jenny’s certain they need to figure out what Horst has on Wagy that keeps him in line.

Although Denise would prefer Jenny gets some rest, she knows that’s not going to happen anytime soon. She’s researched missing ranch hand Cole Danvers and gives Jenny Cole’s mom’s address which earns her a thank you and a kiss from Jenny.

Ronald drives for hours and finally stops in the middle of nowhere. Scarlet and Phoebe are sleeping in the passenger cab and wake up when the truck stops. Ronald’s stashed Mary’s dead body right under where Scarlet’s sleeping, and he convinces his girlfriend and her daughter to go exploring while he unpacks and sets up camp.

Cassie returns to the crime scene at Mary’s place and learns they’ve discovered more blood inside the house. Jerrie fills Cassie in on Mary’s sister. Other than that, all they’ve really learned thus far is that Ronald met Mary, knew she was going to ID him, and he did something to her. Mary’s phone and laptop are missing, and Cassie’s sure Mary knew Ronald – that it wasn’t just a random encounter.

They’ve discovered the dead man in the freezer – Steve – went missing eight years ago. He was murdered with an icepick to the back of his head. It was a quick kill which makes it unlikely Ronald was the murderer.

Jenny pays a visit to Cole Danvers’ mom, Nora, who’s reluctant to speak to anyone about the Kleinsassers. Jenny explains Blake’s dead because he went against the family and she believes Cole knew something. Nora decides to talk after Jenny suggests she can get revenge for Cole’s disappearance. She explains Cole revealed he saw something he knew was wrong right before he disappeared. Nora never believed Kleinsasser ranch manager Gil’s story about Cole stealing a truck and taking off.

Over at the Kleinsasser ranch, Cheyenne has a talk with her mom, Margaret (Michelle Forbes). Margaret demands to know what happened to Blake and Cheyenne confirms J.W. killed him after they argued over Cole Danvers. Margaret confesses Horst has always treated her horribly and she even tried to kill him once with rat poison. Unfortunately, Horst didn’t even become ill. She thinks he’s too mean to die.

J.W. and Rand dig their brother’s grave and discuss prison. Rand admits he’s scared but J.W. believes their dad will take care of them. If Horst doesn’t, J.W. promises he’ll watch out for Rand. Rand, who’s definitely not all there, explains he wants to build a maze on the ranch after their dad’s gone – a maze that will scare people and freak out visitors.

Horst and Michelle have a private chat prior to Blake’s funeral. They exchange insults and Michelle confesses she’s going to kill him. Horst replies, “I expect nothing less.”

Jenny and Cassie ask Gil (Rosie’s dad) about Cole, explaining Jenny spoke to Nora Danvers. Gil admits he’s been waiting to tell his story for a long time. He tried to help Cole, but Cole asked too many questions. When Cole got into an argument with Horst, Rand killed him – believing he was protecting his dad.

Gil comes clean and reveals he wasn’t fired; Horst paid him off. Gil explains Horst and Sheriff Wagy brokered a deal with big mining companies to use the Kleinsasser ranch as a dumping point for toxic chemicals. The waste is kept in barrels in the back pasture and the paperwork’s under lock and key in Horst’s office.

Jenny and Cassie believe Gil might be able to help them get onto the ranch during the funeral.

Cheyenne tells Rand he doesn’t need to always do what J.W. tells him to do. She calls him a psycho killer and asks what’s going on in the back pasture. Cheyenne confirms she knows Rand killed Cole and Angela, just as J.W. joins them. She warns she might tell Sheriff Wagy what she knows and J.W. threatens she’ll be in deep trouble if she keeps talking.

Jenny and Cassie figure out the Kleinsassers were going to lose their land and chose to poison it instead. Their conversation’s interrupted by Mark calling with the news that Steve, the dead man at Mary’s house, fathered a child with Mary’s sister, Scarlet. They all admit they have no idea how this connects to Ronald.

Mark and Jerrie head over to Scarlet’s place after they can’t reach her by phone.

And speaking of Scarlet… Mom and daughter are walking through the woods calling out for “Arthur.” Ronald’s hiding behind a tree, clutching Mary’s dead body to keep from being seen.

During Blake’s funeral, Margaret hugs J.W. and whispers in his ear. “I know what you did,” she says as J.W. tries to pull away from her, causing a minor scene.

Jenny, Cassie, and Gil arrive at the back pasture under the cover of darkness. They look at all the barrels of waste, and Gil opens one up. A skull pops up in the acidic substance and Gil admits there are lots of bodies hidden this way.

Gil helps by taking a soil sample as Jenny snaps photos.

At the gathering after Blake’s funeral, Sheriff Wagy tells Horst he needs to bring Rand in for questioning. Wagy warns the State might get involved and Horst basically says to bring them on, he’ll take care of them.

Wagy explains he’ll get Rand’s statement and they’ll work the case from there. Horst is adamant no one will be questioning his crazy son.

Margaret strides through the funeral gathering, rips something from the wall and demands her family hang a painting in its place. Cheyenne suggests they do this when the guests are gone, but Margaret wants it done now.

Margaret’s painting is really creepy, depicting an eerie figure that seems to be representing death along with blood and coffins.

Horst clears the room and conducts a family meeting. He needs the family to hold it together until they solve their problem.

Mark and Jerrie make it over to Scarlet’s place and she doesn’t answer the door. A neighbor explains Scarlet and her daughter left with Scarlet’s boyfriend in a big rig in the middle of the night. The neighbor IDs a photo of Ronald as Scarlet’s boyfriend, although now Ronald’s hair has grown out.

Sheriff Wagy is driving on the ranch when he spots Gil’s truck. He calls Horst and alerts him to the problem.

Jenny, Gil, and Cassie are about to return to the truck when they realize someone’s heading their way.

Episode 14 ends with Ronald leaving the tent in the middle of the night. He‘s digging Mary’s grave when Phoebe suddenly appears and asks what he’s doing.

‘Prodigal Son’ Season 2 Episode 11 Recap: “You Can Run…”

By

Rebecca Murray

-

May 4, 2021

Prodigal Son Season 2 Episode 11 — Tom Payne and Lou Diamond Phillips in ‘Prodigal Son’ season 2 episode 11 (Photo by Phil Caruso © 2021 Fox Media LLC)

Fox’s Prodigal Son season two episode 10 ended with Malcolm learning his father has escaped from Claremont. Episode 11, “You Can Run…,” begins with a flashback to 1998 which finds Malcolm and Ainsley fighting over a Batman toy. Martin settles the argument and then asks Malcolm to look out for his sister while he’s off on a trip. He reminds Malcolm that Ainsley’s the only sibling he’ll ever have.

Malcolm’s sad his dad’s taking off, but Martin assures him that even when he’s not present, he’ll always be inside Malcolm’s head. (What a disturbing warning/threat that turned out to be!)

Flash forward to present day and Malcolm (Tom Payne) is attempting to make sense of the news his dad’s escaped.

Malcolm’s visiting his dad’s room at Claremont when Gil (Lou Diamond Phillips) arrives with U.S. Marshal Emily Ruiz (April Hernandez-Castillo). She confirms the U.S. Marshals have jurisdiction in this case but she’s letting the team stay on to help with the search. Emily believes Malcolm’s in a unique position to find Martin.

Malcolm thinks it will be Martin’s accomplices that ultimately lead to his whereabouts. He’s certain his dad won’t make any mistakes but the other two fugitives – Friar Pete and Hector – will. And Malcolm’s sure that of the three it’s Friar Pete who’s the wild card.

Jessica (Bellamy Young) is being treated by Dr. Vivian Capshaw (Catherine Zeta-Jones) in the infirmary when Gil and Malcolm catch up with her. She explains she was there to find out about a bank key of Martin’s and isn’t having any luck figuring out what it’s to.

Jessica recalls Martin was in a good mood yesterday. She’s certain he knew what was going to happen.

When Malcolm asks about Vivian’s relationship with Martin, she claims it was the same as with any other inmate. She lies in response to Malcolm’s question regarding whether she ever saw Martin steal anything.

After Jessica leaves, Malcolm hangs around and reveals he knows Vivian’s lying. She confesses she untied Martin and takes the blame for three killers now roaming the streets.

Ainsley (Halston Sage) shows up at Claremont concerned about her mom, and Malcolm admits he’s surprised she’s not at the news station prepping a report on their dad. She claims she’s not thinking about work right now; she’s worried about their mom.

The ambulance the escapees stole for their escape is located and contains two dead EMTs. Gil thinks The Surgeon killed them, but Malcolm explains the cuts are uneven. The Surgeon would have been much more precise. Plus, Malcolm reminds Gil, Dani (Aurora Perrineau), and JT (Frank Harts) the voicemail Martin left said he was never going to kill again. Malcolm doesn’t actually believe that, but he thinks Martin does. He’ll hold off killing as long as possible.

Gil sends JT and Dani off to check on any nearby stolen cars.

Malcolm tells Gil that right now his dad’s most likely looking for a quick way to stock up on supplies including cash and food. Unfortunately, the closest place with everything needed is Malcolm’s house. Gil and Malcolm race over but they’re too late, the fugitives have come and gone. Malcolm’s weapons are missing which means The Surgeon’s now armed.

Jessica and Vivian have a heart-to-heart, bonding over Martin’s betrayals. Jessica confesses she only makes it through the day with the help of gin and the prospect of viewing Martin’s open casket in the near future.

Back at the station, Malcolm lectures the officers on what to expect when looking for Martin. Emily’s sure they have less than 20 hours before the threesome splits up. JT reports a LeSabre was stolen close to where the ambulance was found and everyone should be on the lookout.

After the meeting breaks up, Malcolm admits to Dani he’s not fine. He wonders how he can do his job when he was so clueless about Martin’s plan to escape. Dani assures him they’ll figure it out through good detective work.

Emily, Dani, and Malcolm head over to an auto shop where the LeSabre was spotted. No one at the shop got a good look at the occupants, and Malcolm quickly figures out they only parked at that location to rob a nearby bowling alley.

Malcolm checks it out by himself and finds a dead employee on the ball return. Friar Pete shows off his bowling skills and Malcolm realizes this place reminds him of his youth. Pete confirms it dredged up memories of his dad and living above a bowling alley when he was 10. His father was always an angry man and constantly pissed at God. The bowling alley became Friar Pete’s first sanctuary.

Malcolm advances on Pete while asking where Martin’s headed. Friar Pete warns him not to get any closer and shows he’s got one of Malcolm’s stolen guns in his waistband. However, Malcolm’s not intimidated. Shooting isn’t part of Friar Pete’s MO but launching a bowling ball at Malcolm’s head apparently is. Malcolm dodges the ball and Friar Pete resorts to using the gun. He’s about to shoot when Emily arrives and takes him down with a bullet to the head.

Malcolm’s angry Emily killed the best lead they had to Martin’s location. Emily’s equally upset Malcolm was gambling with the lives of innocent people in the neighborhood by letting Friar Pete almost shoot him and escape.

Jessica’s back at home and Gil confirms they’ve got officers posted outside. Plus, he reinforced the exterior locks and JT’s going to remain in case Martin shows up. Gil promises this will all be over soon.

JT delivers the news the key matches a safe deposit box at a bank where Martin has an account under the name Jonas Salk (the creator of the polio vaccine).

Malcolm and Dani find the time to discuss Malcolm’s state of mind. He knows Dani believes he has a death wish but claims he was in “full control” with Friar Pete. Dani points out that’s not completely true and Malcolm was in fact risking his own life to find his dad. Dani reminds Malcolm taking a bullet for his dad is a bad idea; Martin isn’t worth it.

Malcolm confesses he’s never had a friend like Dani before and Dani says she hasn’t either. “Mine was a compliment…was yours?” asks Malcolm. “The jury’s still out,” answers Dani.

Emily’s located Friar Pete’s phone and it only has one number in it. Malcolm calls it and Ainsley picks up. She thinks it’s her dad and Malcolm doesn’t say anything, stunned.

Gil interrogates Ainsley, asking about her secret visits to Claremont and why she thinks her dad would call her. Ainsley doesn’t answer and Gil warns the U.S. Marshals are ready to make a federal case against her. She denies helping to plan a prison break and reveals it was Martin who reached out to her. He just wanted to talk and thought she’d appreciate a sympathetic ear. Ainsley claims they talked about “life stuff” and describes her dad as surprisingly insightful.

Jessica’s at the station anxious to hear what’s going on with Ainsley but all Gil will say is that it’s clear Ainsley’s desperate for a father in her life. He wonders if he could have helped her more when she was younger, and Jessica reminds him he was with Malcolm growing up and yet Malcolm’s still heavily influenced by Martin.

Gil left the interrogation room so Malcolm could step in, and Malcolm acknowledges he knows she’s been lying. Ainsley confesses she’s worried she’s just like their dad. Martin’s been filling her head with the idea she takes after him during their secret talks, and Malcolm assures her the fact she’s worried she’s like their dad proves that she’s not a psychopath like him.

While Malcolm’s telling her she’s a good person, Ainsley’s thinking about a conversation with her dad when he encouraged her to cry a little and pretend she was worried so she’d pass for normal. Malcolm asks if Martin ever dropped any hints as to where he’d go if he was free. Ainsley wipes away a tear and recalls a random story about apple picking in an apple orchard upstate when she was a kid.

Malcolm’s sure it’s an invitation to escape with their dad. He says Ainsley must have passed a test and Martin would have been convinced she was just like him. Malcolm’s silent for a moment and then announces he knows where Martin’s heading.

Gil and Malcolm head to the only commercially owned apple orchard in Kingston, New York. They’re looking for a woman who used to own the place and the man who answers the door – Bobby Stevens – is her son. She passed away and now he runs the place. Malcolm doesn’t mince words when he asks if his mom was involved with Martin Whitly. Gil explains Martin escaped and he may have a connection to this farm, but Bobby claims not to know of any connection.

While they’re talking Gil receives a text from JT that says Jonas Salk paid Stevens Orchards $400,000 back in 1994. Gil explains what he just learned and Malcolm demands to know what’s in the barn.

Bobby takes them to the barn and shows them the crop-dusting plane inside, a plane that used to be considered top of the line. They bought the plane in 1994 or 1995 after his mom took flying lessons. Malcolm’s sure Martin actually bought the plane with the $400k in case he needed to escape.

Malcolm pokes around inside the plane and locates a secret compartment containing a bag full of money. Bobby seems legitimately shocked by this discovery. The bag also contains passports with Martin’s photo as well as Malcolm’s Batman toy.

Bobby claims his wife needs him at the house and takes off.

Malcolm wonders why Bobby never asked about The Surgeon’s location. He and Gil figure out that’s because Martin’s already at the orchard!

Malcolm’s sure Bobby rushed back to the house because his family’s being held hostage. Malcolm’s determined to go it alone but Marshal Ruiz calls and thwarts that plan. Gil and Malcolm step outside the barn to discover the place is crawling with U.S. Marshals. Gil confirms he’s been keeping Emily in the loop. Malcolm asks to speak with his father alone, but Emily denies his request.

The officers make their move and a gunshot is heard from inside the house. The Marshals report the target is down. Emily can’t immediately confirm the identity of the target and Malcolm takes off running into the house to see for himself.

The family’s being hustled out as Malcolm sees the target is Hector. He asks about his dad’s whereabouts and Hector claims Martin was never with them. He never made it to the ambulance.

Hector explains Martin told them about Malcolm’s weapons and the orchard with the plane and bag of money. He laughs and says, “Guess he had other plans for himself.”

Gil immediately calls Jessica to let her know Martin’s still on the loose.

Malcolm returns to Claremont and speaks with Dr. Vivian Capshaw as she’s on her way out after being fired. She’s holding a box with her possessions as Malcolm confesses he believed his dad wanted him to find him.

“He’s a killer who deserves to be hunted down. I’m never going to forget that again,” says Martin.

As she’s walking away, Vivian turns and tells Malcolm she believes in karma. She’s sure Martin will get exactly what’s coming to him.

The final scene of episode 11 is of Dr. Vivian Capshaw walking to her car in the rain. She places the box in the front seat and then walks around to the trunk. A banging can be heard from inside as she says, “Quiet now. Here we go, darling. We’re almost free.”

‘The Last Letter From Your Lover’ Trailer Starring Shailene Woodley and Felicity Jones

By

Rebecca Murray

-

May 4, 2021

Netflix’s official trailer has arrived for the film adaptation of Jojo Moyes’ bestselling novel, The Last Letter From Your Lover. The romantic drama, adapted by Nick Payne and Esta Spalding, will premiere on the streaming service on July 23, 2021.

The two and a half minute trailer was accompanied by the film’s poster as well as a batch of photos.

The cast includes Felicity Jones, Callum Turner, Joe Alwyn, Nabhaan Rizwan, and Shailene Woodley. Augustine Frizzell (Never Goin’ Back) directed and Simone Urdl, Jennifer Weiss, Graham Broadbent, and Pete Czernin produced.

The Plot, Courtesy of Netflix:

A pair of interwoven stories set in the present and past, The Last Letter From Your Lover follows Ellie Haworth (Jones), an ambitious journalist who discovers a trove of secret love letters from 1965 and becomes determined to solve the mystery of the forbidden affair at their center. As she uncovers the story behind Jennifer Stirling (Woodley), the wife of a wealthy industrialist, and Anthony O’Hare (Turner) the financial journalist assigned to cover him, a love story of Ellie’s own begins to unfold with the assistance of an earnest and endearing archivist (Rizwan) who helps her track down more letters.

‘All Rise’ Season 2 Episode 15 Photos: “Hear My Voice” Preview

By

Rebecca Murray

-

May 4, 2021

All Rise Season 2 Episode 15 — Simone Missick as Lola Carmichael in ‘All Rise’ season 2 episode 15 (Photo: Erik Voake © 2021 CBS Broadcasting, Inc)

Lola presides over the case of former Sheriff Wayne McCarthy on CBS’s All Rise season two episode 15. “Hear My Voice,” directed by Michael M. Robin from a script by Felicia Hilario and Annie Brunner, will air Monday, May 10, 2021 at 9pm ET/PT.

Simone Missick leads the cast as Judge Lola Carmichael, Wilson Bethel plays Mark Callan, Marg Helgenberger is Lisa Benner, and Jessica Camacho stars as Emily Lopez. J. Alex Brinson plays Luke Watkins, Lindsay Mendez is Sara Castillo, Ruthie Ann Miles is Sherri Kansky, Lindsey Gort plays Amy Quinn, and Audrey Corsa is Samantha Powell. Peter MacNicol recurs as Judge Albert Campbell.

Guest stars include Castulo Guerra, Malaya Rivera Drew, Yeniffer Behrens, and Julianna Mia Behrens.

“Hear My Voice” Plot: Lola finds herself in the judicial hotseat when she presides over the case of former Sheriff Wayne McCarthy (Louis Herthum), and struggles because she and Mark can’t talk to each other outside the courtroom. Also, Detective Rashel (Nick Wechsler) and other cops come forward to speak against McCarthy, but Corinne (Anne Heche) continues to turn their testimonies against them, and Luke demands that Mark allow him to take the stand.

Series Description, Courtesy of CBS:

All Rise is a courthouse drama that follows the chaotic, hopeful and sometimes absurd lives of its judges, prosecutors and public defenders, as they work with bailiffs, clerks and cops to get justice for the people of Los Angeles amidst a flawed legal process. Among them is newly appointed Judge Lola Carmichael, a highly regarded and impressive deputy district attorney who doesn’t intend to sit back on the bench in her new role, but instead leans in, immediately pushing the boundaries and challenging the expectations of what a judge can be.

‘The Blacklist’ Season 8 Episode 16 Photos: “Nicholas Obenrader” Preview

By

Rebecca Murray

-

May 4, 2021

The promo video for NBC’s The Blacklist season eight episode 16 teases details on Red’s new recruit. Episode 16, “Nicholas Obenrader,” will air on May 7, 2021.

The cast of The Blacklist is led by James Spader as Raymond “Red” Reddington and Megan Boone as Elizabeth Keen. Diego Klattenhoff plays Donald Ressler, Amir Arison is Aram Mojtabai, Hisham Tawfiq is Dembe Zuma, and Harry Lennix stars as Harold Cooper.

Nicholas Obenrader” Plot: Liz and the Task Force track new leads in their investigation of N-13, while Red takes steps to infiltrate Townsend’s criminal organization.

Season 8 Description, Courtesy of NBC:

With his back against the wall, Raymond Reddington (Spader) faces his most formidable enemy yet: Elizabeth Keen (Boone). Aligned with her mother, infamous Russian spy Katarina Rostova, Liz must decide how far she is willing to go to find out why Reddington has entered her life and what his endgame really is. The fallout between Reddington and Keen will have devastating consequences for all that lie in their wake, including the Task Force they helped to create.