MARIAH's THOUGHTS on 13 Reasons Why Season 1 Episode 1 - "Tape 1, Side A"

About the Show:

After a teenage girl's perplexing suicide, a classmate receives a series of tapes that unravel the mystery of her tragic choice.
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Network:
Netflix

Genre:
Young Adult

Crime Drama/Mystery

Rating:

TV-MA

Created by:

Brian Yorkey

Series based on:

Thirteen Reasons Why

Based on the Novel Written by:

Jay Asher

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Cast:

Dylan Minnette – Clay Jensen

Katherine Langford – Hannah Baker

Christian Navarro - Tony

Brandon Flynn – Justin

Jutsin Prentice - Bryce

Kate Walsh – Mrs. Baker

See Full List of Cast & Crew on IMDB

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Episode 1: "Tape 1, Side A"

As the school mourns the death of Hannah Baker, her friend Clay receives a box of tapes with messages she recorded before she committed suicide.

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My Thoughts

Note: This review contains spoilers

I didn’t believe it couldn’t be turned into a movie. So now, Jay Asher’s 13 Reasons Why is a thirteen-episode series on Netflix. Jay Asher’s book was too much a good read to put down but as a television series it blew me away. In only the first episode, I was pulled into the story of a boy listening to the last words he’d hear from his high school crush; a teenage girl who tried to fit in. Dylan Minnette’s performance as Clay Jensen was on point because of his youthful appearance and skill in performing as an awkward teenager. Honestly, he’s 20 years old and can pass for a 16 or 17-year-old high schooler. Katherine Langford as Hannah Baker, I believe, wasn’t a bad choice either. Her voice was fitting to help set the mood and her appearance was beautiful.

Based upon the above two actors, I give tribute to the costume designers for clothing choice. Some people say it doesn’t matter, but clothes are an outward expression of feelings or personalities that some people can’t express. Hannah was dressed modestly yet radiantly and displayed an innocent beauty. Clay was dressed casually and comfortably as to not draw attention to himself. From the choice in clothing, I felt the persona of each character was subtly established and the mood of the episode grew off it.

But what really got to me was the musical score. Each song helped the episode flow from start to the last minute of the episode. It helped me feel the anxiety Clay felt while listening to the tapes, guilt, or sadness. 13 Reasons Why was a beautiful book and now it is an incredible series. The suspense keeps building, making me curious to know what (or who) the recordings will say next, but I want to savor each episode and watch it at my leisure.

JASMINE's THOUGHTS on Fear the Walking Dead Season 2 Episode 1 - "Monster"

About the Show:

AMC's Fear the Walking Dead returns at sea, aboard the Abigail. The group is unaware of the true breadth of the apocalypse; they assume there still a chance that some city, state, or nation might be unaffected, some place where infection has not hit. Abandoning land, Madison, Travis and Daniel gather their grieving families for ports unknown. But the respite of Strand's ocean-side home is short-lived. They will discover that the water may be no safer than land.

Television Network

AMC

Created by

Robert Kirkman

Spin-off Series from

The Walking Dead

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Cast:

Kim Dickens, Cliff Curtis, Frank Dillane, Alycia Debnam-Carey, Lorenzo James Henrie, Ruben Blades, Mercedes Mason, Colman Domingo, Elizabeth Rodriguez & Patricia Reyes Spíndola.

See list of cast & crew on IMDB.com

Here's a Season 1 recap

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Episode 1 Synopsis:

The families flee a burning Los Angeles on Strand's yacht. Strand remains mysterious. The group encounters danger at sea.

Read Full Recap

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*My Thoughts*

This first episode of this new season starts off in the midst of chaos as Los Angeles burns. The city is overrun with the dead, and they flee onto Strand's yacht. For now, they seem to be safe on Abigail as they search for anywhere that is "safe." Chris mourns his mother...and carries the anger that his father killed her. She was infected! He had no choice. Although Chris knows this, he still is angry...of course, he's been angry with Travis for some time now...killing his mother just added to his resentment.

Tension rises as they set out to sea. As they move further away from land, they pass other survivors needing help. The need to help themselves and their families overrides the need to help others. It's survival mode now. Will the situation put more strain on Travis and Madison's relationship? No one likes the situation, but they have to do what they have to do to survive.

Alicia strikes up a conversation with Jack over the radio. While Strand avoids contact with other people, Alicia continues to converse with this person, and, eventually, revealing their location to this guy.

Moreover, Liza, Chris's mother, is laid to rest at sea. As Travis delivers a brief eulogy for her, Chris's resentment boils over and he abruptly ends this funeral at sea. Travis doesn't know what to do and asks Madison for help with Chris. Madison seems to be able to say the right words to Chris...and it seems to have sunk in.

They have their suspicions about Strand, but he did help them. However, it doesn't mean that Strand isn't keeping something from them. But, it doesn't hurt to be cautious...and that what he is doing, especially when they run into a capsized boat and its passengers floating dead in the water. Maybe there is a reason to his madness. But, Strand does seem to know more than he's letting on.

As they spend time on the yacht, we see how each of them deal and process what has happened as they try to figure out what to do next. Their world has been turned upside down, and now, they have to rely on each other to remain safe and alive. They are also learning about each others strengths and vulnerabilities. I can see that there is more about them that we don't know.

Season one created the world and introduced us to these characters. Now, in Season two, we will see the beginning of how they deal with their situation; and how they deal with other survivors.

Well, it's only the start of their survival. We will have to see where the ocean takes them. Are they any more safer at sea than on land? Is there a safe place to go? Or is there really "No Safe Harbor?" They will soon find out.

Until the next episode!

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Here's a sneak peek of Episode 2 - "We All Fall Down"

Fear the Walking Dead Sundays 9/8C on AMC

JASMINE's THOUGHTS on Damien Season 1 Episode 1 - "The Beast Rises"

About the Show:

Damien Thorn (James Bradley) discovers that he is the Antichrist. He must confront his past and cope with the truth of who and what he is.

Television Network:
A&E

Genre:
Supernatural/Paranormal Drama
Horror/Suspense

Series based on:

The Omen

Rating:

TV-14 V,L

Created by:

Glen Mazzara

Cast:

Bradley James - Damien Thorn

Barbara Hershey - Ann Rutledge

Megalyn E.K. - Simone Baptiste

Omid Abtahi - Amani Golkar

Scott Wilson - John Lyons

David Meunier - Detective Shay

Robin Weigert - Sister Greta Fraueva

   

   

See Full List of Cast on IMDB

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Watch the Full Episode

Episode 1 ; "The Beast Rises" Synopsis:

After experiencing a traumatic event while on assignment in Syria, acclaimed war photographer Damien Thorn is forced to confront his past and face the fact that he is the Antichrist.

Duration:

43 min 9 sec

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*My Thoughts*

Interesting premiere! And...I like it! The series starts off with Damien, a photographer, on assignment in Syria. Damien is now all grown up! I love that the show is connected to the original film, The Omen (1976). Just like the film, the paranormal/supernatural element in the show is integrated into the story.

We first had a sneak peek at this new show at SDCC 2015. Check out our photo album from the Damien panel, HERE! We enjoyed the Q&A panel. We got a first hand look at the new show and a behind-the-scenes discussion with the cast and creator.

The show is definitely dark and suspenseful. The show takes off years after the film. And now, Those loyal to the "Antichrist" are coming out of the "woodworks." All the while, Damien has to come to the realization of who he is; however, he is still a man. Like with any human being, Damien has to face the conflict between what he is and who he is.

He has grown up not remembering much of his past, but it seems that it is now catching up with him. He is finding bits and pieces of clues which opens up his memories. Yes, he is conflicted...and confused. Seeing that "666" just confirms what he has been told about what he is.

Just like the film, the show has elements of horror and suspense which makes it so gripping. In addition to these dark elements, Damien also has that drama element in which the character himself must deal with outside forces and inner conflicts. The realism of this character is apparent with how Damien confronts it all.

I liked it! The show definitely opened and followed the basic theme of the original film. I loved how clips from the original film was integrated into the show as Damien's memory flashback(s) and in family photos. Let's see where they go with the show!

Until the next dark episode. What will Damien do now that he knows what he is!?!

JASMINE's THOUGHTS on Lucifer Season 1 Episode 1 - "Pilot"

About the Show

Lucifer is the story of the original fallen angel. Bored and unhappy as the Lord of Hell, Lucifer Morningstar has resigned his throne and retired to the City of Angels, where he owns an upscale piano bar called Lux. When a beautiful pop star is murdered, for the first time in roughly 10 billion years, he feels something awaken deep within him. Is he actually capable of feelings for a human being? The very thought disturbs him. The murder attracts the attention of LAPD homicide detective Chloe Dancer, who finds herself both repulsed and fascinated by Lucifer. At the same time, God's emissary, the angel Amenadiel, has been sent to Los Angeles to convince Lucifer to return to Hell. But with the City of Angels at his feet and a newfound purpose, Lucifer's having too much fun to go back now.

Social Networks:

   

Based on the comic book series by:

Vertigo

Rating:

TV-14

Cast:

Tom Ellis as Lucifer Morningstar

Lauren German as Chloe Decker

Lesley-Ann Brandt as Maze

D.B. Woodside as Amenadiel

Rachael Harris as Kim Martin

Kevin Alejandro as Dan

Scarlett  Estevez as Trixie

See Full Cast on IMDB

Episode Synopsis:

Upon leaving hell Lucifer Morningstar retreats to Los Angeles for a more exciting life. When the murder of a friend connects him with LAPD detective Chloe Decker, Lucifer becomes intrigued with the idea of punishing criminals, sending the devil himself into a struggle between good and evil.

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*My Thoughts*

First off, we already had a chance to watch this pilot episode at the San Diego Comic-Con 2015. And, yeah, I am so glad that we got an advance screening of this new series. Based on the comic book series by Vertigo, the show basically follows Lucifer as he leaves Hell, and decides to reside in Los Angeles. Just in this first episode, it was filled with elements of drama, suspense, humor, and, of course, the paranormal/supernatural.

Lucifer has the knack to reveal the deepest and darkest desires of people which is pretty humorous, especially in the way Lucifer's charm can coax it out of people. After the death of a friend, he is introduced to detective Chloe Decker. However, Lucifer doesn't seem to have any kid of effect on her. No wonder he's fascinated with her. And, the investigation continues. They both want to find the answers to the murder, so now, they end up helping each other.

Tom Ellis brings out the charming, witty, funny character with ease. The pilot episode introduces the audience to several of the characters that intertwined with Lucifer. However, I did see that was a cast change for the character Dan, Chloe's ex & Trixie's father. Either way, both actors fit the character of Dan. I enjoyed the "playful" banter between Lucifer and detective Chloe Decker. Lucifer seems to be at odds since Chloe is not affected by his charms. Morever, Lucifer's charms on everyone else is so hilarious! I'm definitely excited to watch more.

For now, here's a sneak peek at Episode 2 - "Lucifer, Stay. Good Devil"

Mondays 9/8 C on Fox

MY THOUGHTS: Shadowhunters Season 1 Episode 101 - "The Mortal Cup"

Based on Cassandra Clare's series The Mortal Instruments, Shadowhunters is an all new TV series on Freeform (formerly ABC Family) that follows Clary Fray's journey into the shadow world where she will the truth about herself, downworlders, and demons while searching for her mother.

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Genre:

Fantasy/Paranormal Drama

Action/Adventure

Based on the novels by:

Cassandra Clare

Cast:

Katherine McNamara as Clary Fray

Dominic Sherwood as Jace Wayland

Matthew Daddario as Alec Lightwood

Alberto Rosende as Simon Lewis

Emeraude Toubia as Isabelle Lightwood

Harry Shum Jr. as Magnus Bane

Isaiah Mustafa as Luke Garroway

See Full Cast & Crew

Episode Synopsis:

One young woman realizes how dark the city can really be when she learns the truth about her past. Based on the bestselling young adult fantasy book series The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare, Shadowhuters follows Clary Fray, who finds out on her birthday that she is not who she thinks she is but rather comes from a long line of Shadowhunters - human-angel hybrids who hunt down demons. Now thrown into the world of demon hunting after her mother is kidnapped, Clary must rely on the mysterious Jace and his fellow Shadowhunters Isabelle and Alec to navigate this new dark world.

With her best friend Simon in tow, Clary must now live among faeries, warlocks, vampires and werewolves to find answers that could help her find her mother. Nothing is as it seems, including her close family friend Luke who knows more than he is letting on, as well as the enigmatic warlock Magnus Bane who could hold the key to unlocking Clary's past.

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*My Thoughts*

Well...I didn't hate it. I didn't love it. It's ONLY the first episode. Even though I have read the series a few years ago, I can see the changes made to accommodate this TV series adaptation. And...that's just it! This is an adaptation. I can see that much of the integral characters and plot have stayed true to the books. However, there are some distinct changes to the character storylines. And, in no way am I going to compare the film to this series. It wouldn't be fair to either writers.

Moreover, I think this is a good start. Much of the Institute has been modernized from what is written in the books. With that, it gives the feel of a covert operations theme. Well, shadowhunters are hidden from the mundane world...right!?! Hence, covert operations style institute...haha! The show revealed a dark undertone to its theme of the show....seems fitting for the storyline.

This episode delves into introducing viewers to these characters, their background/storylines, and the plot. I like that cast. But...their acting seemed unnatural and forced. The dialogue seemed stiff and fell flat. However, the more I watched, the cast seemed to slowly fall into character.

I think this is a series worth following to find out what direction they will take viewers. I think this deserves a chance. I will more than likely keep watching.

For now, get a sneak peek of Episode 2 - "The Descent into Hell Isn't Easy"

Tuesdays 9/8C on Freeform (formerly ABC Family)

JASMINE's THOUGHTS on Supergirl Season 1 Episode 1 - "Pilot" (2015)

About the Show

Supergirl is an action-adventure drama based on the DC Comics character Kara Zor-El, Superman's (Kal-El) cousin who, after 12 years of keeping her powers a secret on Earth, decides to finally embrace her superhuman abilities, and be the hero she was always meant to be.

Twelve-year-old Kara escaped the doomed planet Krypton with her parents' help at the same time as the infant Kal-El. Protected and raised on Earth by her foster family, the Danvers, Kara grew up in the shadow of her foster sister, Alex, and learned to conceal the phenomenal powers she shares with her famous cousin in order to keep her identity a secret. 

Years later at 24, Kara lives in National City assisting media mogul and fierce taskmaster Cat Grant. She works alongside her friend and IT technician Winn Schott and famous photgrapher James Olsen, who Grant just hired away from the Daily Planet to serve as her new art director. However, Kara's days of keeping her talents a secret are over when Hank Henshaw, head of a super-secret ageny where her sister also works, enlists her to help them protect the citizens of National City from sinister threats. Though Kara will need to find a way to manage her newfound empowerment with her very human relationships, her heart soars as she takes to the skies as Supergirl to fight crime.

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Cast

Melissa Benoist, Calista Flockhart, Chyler Leigh, Mehcad Brooks, Jeremy Jordan, David Harewood

See Full Cast & Crew on IMDB

Watch the full pilot episode

Episode 1 - "Pilot"

Synopsis:

After 12 years of keeping her powers a secret on Earth, Kara Zor-El, Superman's cousin, decides to finally embrace her superhuman abilities and be the hero she was always meant to be.

My Thoughts

So...I finally got a chance to watch this first episode of Supergirl! I have been looking forward to this since I heard the news about it! Now that I have watched the premiere episode, I am absolutely floored at how much I loved it! It seriously brought some Superman nostalgia! I loved how there were some cameo appearances by past actors that portrayed favorite superheroes.

The episode opens with a sort of Kara history to the point when she reaches earth and grows up. Now, twenty-something Kara is similar to Clark's personality as in both are somewhat socially awkward...all the while keeping their true identity a secret. Events then start falling into place in which Kara soon has to decide on who she really wants to be...and assimilates herself as the new hero for National City. These events, good and bad, helps Kara decide on what she wants to do and believe.

Of course, Supergirl's story is similar, yet separate, from Superman's story. Well...yah! They both are from Krypton, and will go through the similar cycles in regards to learning how to live on Earth. I really enjoyed the tie-in with Superman's appearance...although shadowed, it helped bring the story together. This is definitely a good start on following the adventures of Kara Zor-El...be it as Supergirl or as Kara Danvers.

The cast is amazing! They definitely brought substance to the characters, especialy Melissa Benoist as Supergirl/Kara Danvers. The whole set up of all the characters was well in terms that their places in Kara/Supergirl's life was well defined and explained. The story slowed evenly in which it didn't leave me with questions or doubts, but wanting to watch more of Kara's growth as Supergirl as she embraces who she is...and all the adventures that lie ahead of her.

Of course, I'm speaking as a fangirl as I review this episode...haha! While watching the premiere of this new Fall series on CBS, it brought about that nostalgia of when I was a kid watching Christopher Reeve as Superman. I sure hope there is more cameo roles to appear in this series...maybe even a crossover with other DC adapted shows and/or a Superman appearance. Now, that would be awesome...to see the cousins together...at last! Well, we will have to see! I know I will keep watching!

Monday nights 8/7c on CBS

JASMINE's THOUGHTS on Fear the Walking Dead S1 E1 "Pilot"

About the Show:

Living in the same universe as The Walking Dead, Fear the Walking Dead is a gritty drama that explores the onset of the undead apocalypse through the lens of a fractured family. Set in a city where people come to escape, shield secrets, and bury their pasts, a mysterious outbreak threatens to disrupt what little stability high school guidance counselor Madison Clark and English teacher Travis Manawa have managed to assemble. The everyday pressure of blending two families while dealing with resentful, escapist, and strung out children takes a back seat when society begins to break down. A forced evolution, a necessary survival of the fittest takes hold, and our dysfunctional family must either reinvent themselves or embrace their darker histories.

Cast:

Kim Dickens, Cliff Curtis, Frank Dillane, Alycia Debnam-Carey, Lorenzo James Henrie, Elizabeth Rodriguez, Ruben Blades, Mercedes Mason, Patricia Reyes Spíndola.

See list of cast & crew on IMDB.com

Stay connected with AMC's Fear the Walking Dead

    

Here's a look at the series!

Here's the first 3 minutes of episode 1!

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*My Thoughts*

Note: This review contains NO spoilers

So, I finally watched the first episode of this spin-off series of The Walking Dead. Like the start of any drama, viewers are introduced to the main characters; and it sets up the world that this series takes place in. In this first episode, we are introduced to Madison Clark, her kids, and her boyfriend Travis Manawa. We get to know right off who Nick Clark is, and with him, we start to see his storyline and how he fits in this new world that slowly is being revealed to them...as well as viewers.

We see a lot of character development with each of the cast, especially when dealing with real issues that is happening in current events.

It is all to real when dealing with dysfunctional and blended families...and that is what this show focuses on. How the member of these families learn to deal with the changing of society/civilization. Although Travis Manawa is a major part in this family dynamics, this first episode focuses most on the Clarks.

As far as what I watched, this intro into this new series did have a flair for the dramatics. I did not think it disappointed at all in regards to building up to the dramatic suspense of throwing these unsuspecting characters into a world of the walking dead....no pun intended...lol!

This pilot episode did seem a bit slow; but then again, this episode did squeeze in multiple character storylines in which gave viewers a profile on who these characters are and the importance they have and will have in the following episodes.

I am already liking this new spin-off series...on to the next episode!

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Here's a sneak peek of episode 2 of Fear the Walking Dead!

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Fear the Walking Dead Comic-Con 2015 poster!

Watch Fear the Walking Dead Sundays 9/8C on AMC