Entertainment

However, it’s worth noting that while we’re gearing up for some heartwarming scenes, there will still be a dash of tension in this upcoming set of episodes. This week, Lauren and Dave are finally parting ways, and the single pod members have their own share of issues to deal with. Meanwhile, our engaged couples are having crucial last-minute discussions. Given that we’ve got four couples to cover next week, we’re delving into Ben and Sara’s wedding preparations a bit early. So, let’s dive right in!

In the interview, Costner shared that Gene was the finest actor he’s collaborated with. This conversation took place during a disagreement between Costner and a director about their positions in a particular scene. As they were leaving the MGM studio, Hackman walked up to Costner, who thought he was going to receive criticism from the veteran star. However, instead of reprimanding him, Hackman said, “Hey, I’ve recently gone through a divorce and have been involved in some less-than-stellar projects. Watching you stand up for what you believe in today brought back memories of my passion for acting. Well done.” And with that, Hackman got into his car and drove away.

This show, named “Severance,” excels in two key areas: evoking authentic emotions and leading viewers into intricate mysteries. The episode I’m referring to as “the Gemma episode” is a captivating blend of visual and narrative elements that offers a glimpse behind the ominous elevator at Lumon, revealing their true activities. It also delves deeply into the concept of liminal spaces, both psychological and physical. If you found yourself searching for “bardos” or “Tolstoy” after the end credits, raise your hand – I’m right there with you! [Raises hand.]

As a movie enthusiast, I must admit that the plot would have been intriguing if not for the overbearing and instantaneous air of authority that Rivers carries around. It seems assumption is his preferred method of operation, as an investigator. Instead of delving into the circumstances surrounding Nathan Jordan’s (Larry Pine) demise, he jumps to conclusions, assuming that the wealthy real estate mogul was murdered by his wife-in-name, Helen (Victoria Clark), and her boyfriend, Dr. Jason Yamamoto (Phil Nee). In his mind, they must have collaborated to eliminate him for his fortune!

The latest adaptation of Matlock deviates from its original in numerous aspects. Unlike before, it incorporates an ongoing narrative alongside weekly cases, focusing less on traditional crime-solving procedures and more on office politics. However, similarities can be drawn to the original series when it comes to courtroom scenes. In this version, Olympia’s team employs a unique method of representing clients through feelings, intuition, and fortunate accidents. As I noted in my footnotes last week, “good lawyering” for these attorneys often means serendipitously discovering crucial evidence. It’s somewhat similar to the portrayal of skilled poker players in films, who always seem to draw the best cards.

Fortunately, Gabby managed to survive, possibly due to my negotiations with higher powers aimed at securing that specific result. Unfortunately, it was Tom Sandoval who met his end in the night. This turn of events might bring joy to his adversary, Dolores, but I’ll dearly miss Tom’s amusing arrogance. Even as he received word of his demise, he claimed he had seen it coming, given his perceived threat level within the group. “I didn’t know I’d be this good at it,” he quipped about his gameplay, a statement that was both poignant and comical, considering his earlier struggles with the game. However, did Tom truly lose? It’s intriguing to observe how The Traitors can influence a player’s preconceived image, and in this case, I believe the show worked wonders for Tom as it transformed him from an antagonist into a court jester. “For once, you were actually Faithful,” Alan says as he discards Tom’s portrait, a line the show had been waiting to use all season.

At exactly noon, Dana demonstrates her nurturing side fully. She consoles Heather when she reveals her miscarriage (Heather’s comment about the stroller really upset me), and manages Robby’s questions regarding his senior resident without adding to his stress. Dana finds Javadi’s awkward attempt to ask Mateo out on a date amusing yet refrains from humiliating her. She skillfully handles Doug Driscoll, our temperamental patient, as he continues to vent at the staff for their long wait time and belittle others due to his assumption of their financial status, and harasses sweet Mateo with racist remarks. Dana maintains composure by repeatedly explaining that patients are attended based on urgency, and Doug might leave when offered an AMA form, but unfortunately, he returns after learning about the importance of waiting for doctors to review his lab results. As always, Doug remains angry.

In episode nine, it’s clear that Sara was using TikTok one evening, with Ben by her side, both appearing on-screen before their wedding. Suddenly, she stumbled upon a TikTok about a man connected to the Minneapolis cast. Sara interpreted the TikTok as criticizing reality TV for glorifying poor male behavior and mistreatment of women and others. Ben acknowledged watching the video and admitted it likely referred to him. He explained that he had met the woman in the video on Tinder four years ago, they went on a few dates, and then he stopped responding (ghosted her). However, he couldn’t recall specifics about their relationship. He also mentioned blocking her on social media after seeing the videos. Sara chose to trust Ben, but seemed somewhat doubtful and puzzled.

In the films Hackman stars in, a smile or grin from him often indicates potential imminent violence or cruelty. For instance, in “The Quick and the Dead,” his character, John Herod, uses insinuating smiles to manipulate others, such as when he warns Sharon Stone’s character to leave town. In this scene, his smile signals danger, whether it be a physical attack or a more prolonged act of cruelty. Similarly, in “The French Connection,” Hackman’s character Popeye Doyle uses a persistent, nonsensical question to disorient suspects during interrogations. So, if you see Hackman flashing his teeth in delight, beware, as it may signal an aggressive or malicious act coming up.

Similar to numerous past hits on this network, TLC’s latest series features a large, charismatic family filled with larger-than-life personalities (seven children! two nannies! various pets!). However, unlike previous families who were unknown, this one is led not by ordinary Middle Americans but by Alec Baldwin, a half EGOT recipient, and his often-tabloid-targeted spouse Hilaria. Unlike other shows on TLC that aim to make its leads into stars, The Baldwins leverages star power to create a successful reality show. In this aspect, it certainly breaks away from the traditional TLC formula, although such departures are not uncommon for the network.