Nostalgia Nook: S Club 7

Everyone probably knows ABC Family. But remember when it was FOX Family? Because I do. There were a lot of good shows on it. Including one centered around a British band import called S Club 7.

Most of us recall S Club 7 fondly from what I can tell. So why’s that? Let’s take a look, shall we?

Reach for the SPOILERS!

OUAT: David and Goliath

Last time on “Once:” Emma became the deputy sheriff as an old mine shaft collapsed. Regina looked ready to kill Graham but had to focus on assuring the people of Storybrooke that something will be done with the mine…and then assuring her son that she wasn’t hiding anything. Except she totally was, but he didn’t realize that. Regina demanded that Archie step up his therapy and squash all the fairy tale notions from her son. He was reluctant but she threatened to destroy his life.

So Archie did so and an upset Henry decided to explore the mine by himself. Archie went in after him as Emma searched around the mine. Another collapse trapped Archie and Henry in the mine, forcing Regina and Emma to work together to save their son. Emma did so and Archie confronted Regina, threatening her so he could continue treating Henry the way he saw fit.

In the Enchanted Forest, we learned more about Jiminy Cricket. He wasn’t always a cricket and was a human man trapped by his conmen of parents. He met a young boy who shows him some kindness but he ruined everything when he accidentally gave the boy’s parents a potion meant for his parents. The parents are turned into demonic marionettes and Blue turned a guilty Jiminy into a cricket so he could protect the young boy, Gepetto.

All the while, David and Mary Margaret were undeniably attracted to each other. But he still has a wife.

That, my friends, is a conundrum.

ANTM: Hair for Days

Last time “ANTM:” The 21 contestants discovered who was staying and who was going. The top 14 returned to their house before being paired up for photoshoots. At home, Mikey showed his true colors to Courtney and that friendship flamed out. Devin was crazy, Bello continued to hate him and Hadassah was just annoying. At panel, Devin rose to the top while Delanie and Stefano fell into the bottom. In the end, Delanie was sent home and Stefano given a second chance to prove he’s not just an accessory. Thirteen models remain, who will be eliminated tonight?

Find out!

Devin goes back to the house to celebrate his best shot. Everyone gathers into the Tyra Suite to see Tyra’s video. She gives him a tytytip about his strengths and weaknesses. Meanwhile, Bello still hates Devin.

There’s Team DMA—Devin, Mikey, and Ashley. Devin says Ashley and Mikey like each other. Ashley confirms it…as does them getting pretty cuddly in the confessional…and the tub.

TYRA MAIL! “A hero never gives up.” Hadassash thinks it means acting. She says she can’t worry about what everyone thinks of her. You might want to care a bit. Hadassah revealed she was in a school play as Sandy in Grease. There’s something about Devin being a scarecrow, so she dressed as one with Bello of course playing along as Dorothy. Devin reveals he doesn’t like Hadassah and he confronts her. He says she doesn’t have any friends and that she acts like she’s better than anybody. She says she never announced it because she would never say that…even if it was true. You just proved Devin’s point. Brava. Devin says she’s a pageant girl and not a model as we cut to…CREDITS!

Wanna be on top?

ANTM: No Neck Monster

Last time on Top Model: The top 22 finalists moved into their house, designed by the Property Brothers. Hadassah did nothing to endear herself to the others by calling a house meeting and explaining everything that she didn’t like. The next day, they had their first photoshoot but Alexa decided to call quits before it. Kelly even begged her to stay!

After the photoshoot, the judges whittled down the group to the 14 finalists. So the 21 remaining hopefuls were brought to a shipyard where they were told that they would walk a high-flying catwalk. Those who were chosen would make it across safely and the seven not chosen would be “dropped” (lowered down). Who made it? Who was dropped? Find out!

Wanna be on top?

We return to the shipyard where Alexis Borges repeats the challenge. He then tells the models that he’ll be watching so pretty much don’t screw this up. But they all seem to be freaking out about being suspended over the ground and frankly, who could blame them? Devin meanwhile goes on about how needs this show to make a name for himself.

Debatable.

OUAT: I’ve Got No Strings

Last time on “Once”: Emma met a pregnant teenager named Ashley who wanted to keep her baby despite everyone telling her she wasn’t suited for it. Emma tells her she can, no doubt also working through some of her issues about giving up Henry. Ashley assaults Gold and he asks Emma to track her down. Along the way, Emma meets Ashley’s ex-boyfriend/baby daddy and learns his father has arranged for Gold to give the baby away. Furious, she’s even more determined to make sure Ashley gets to keep her baby. She makes a deal with Gold to ensure it happens and Ashley gets to keep her little Alexandra as she reunites with her boyfriend.

In the Enchanted Forest, Ashley is apparently Cinderella. After Rumpelstiltskin kills her fairy godmother for her wand, Ella makes a deal with him to go to the ball. She fails to read the fine print and is horrified to learn he wants her firstborn child. That’s…kinda his thing, though. Anyway, when she gets pregnant she tells her prince the truth and they work with Charming to capture Rumple. Ella tricks him into using a magical pen and in revenge, he takes away her prince.

Harsh.

We open on…a puppet show. Or rather a marionette. As a couple entertains a crowd, a redheaded child makes his way through the people and picks their pockets. No one catches him and…wait…doesn’t that look like Pinocchio? Is this when he’s running with the wrong crowd?

(I'm not crazy, right?)

ANTM: Delayed!

I probably should've mentioned this last week and I'm surprised I didn't. But I've been on vacation, so I haven't been able to watch this week's episode. Once I do, I'll post the recap.

Thanks for your patience!

OUAT: Are You Sure That What You Wish is What You Want?

Last time on “Once”: Henry convinces Mary Margaret to read to John Doe, the hospital’s coma patient. When she does, he wakes up and ends up running off. Mary Margaret helps Emma and Graham find John Doe in the woods. She gives him mouth-to-mouth, saving him, and they return him to the hospital. There, Regina reveals that they’ve discovered John Doe is really David Nolan and she introduces his wife, Kathryn. Mary Margaret’s heart breaks as Emma grows suspicious over how convenient this all is. Regina manages to convince her otherwise, no doubt laughing all the way home about how she’s fooling the Savior.

In the enchanted forest, Snow and Charming meet when she robs the carriage he’s riding in with his fiancée, Prince Abigail (still hereafter known as Princess Can’t Be Bothered and the like). Snow makes off with some jewels, including a ring later revealed to have belonged to Charming’s mother. He chases after her and captures her, forcing her to bring him back to whoever she sold his jewels too. After a brief skirmish with the Black Guard, Snow brings him to the Troll Bridge. Things go south quickly and they have to defeat the trolls together. Though they part ways after, it’s clear the two are already starting to fall in love.

And judging by the longing look David gives Mary Margaret, those feelings still exist despite the curse. As a forlorn Mary Margaret considers this, Emma shows up to ask if the spare room is still available. It is and the two become roommates.

All together now: Aww!

ANTM: Strike a Pose

Last time on “ANTM:” Cycle 22, y’all! The 31 finalists hit Hollywood, posed for pictures and walked a runway. They met the judges, made friends, made enemies and then 22 of them survived the first cut. Who makes it to the final 14? Find out tonight!

Wanna be on top?

ANTM: Somewhere in the Middle

Cycle 22. Wow, you guys. Can you believe it? I know I can’t. I also realized I’ve been watching the show for ten years now—I started watching in fall 2005. It’s been a trip.

Well, let’s start this cycle and see what Tyra and co. have in store for us this go-round.

Wanna be on top?

I missed the first three minutes and apparently missed most of the guys entering. I enter with Nyle introducing himself…and Ramon, his interpreter. Nyle’s deaf and communicates using ASL. Well okay then. This should be interesting and I have a feeling I’m going to be jealous of him since he won’t be able to hear all the drama and ridiculousness contestants are known to spew.

OUAT: I Will Always Find You

Last time on “Once”: Emma decided to stay in Storybrooke, much to Regina’s consternation. So Regina does everything she can to make Emma’s life miserable—including having her arrested and evicted. But Henry keeps coming to her rescue—with Mary Margaret in tow. Emma decides she needs to stay to help her son and decides to go along with Operation Cobra—AKA Henry’s plan to defeat the Evil Queen and break her curse.

In the Enchanted Forest, Regina decides to cast the Dark Curse to take away Snow’s happy ending. She goes to Maleficent and pretty much assaults her only friend to get the Dark Curse back (she exchanged it for the sleeping curse) and then attempts to cast it. When it doesn’t work out, her servant suggests she go talk to the Dark One. She does so and he tells her that she has to crush the heart of the person she loves most. In exchange for this information, Regina owes Rumpelstiltskin a favor. Well, that can only end well, right? Anyway, turns out Regina’s servant is really her father and she crushes his heart, casting the curse.

This is supposed to be a family show, right?

OUAT: Crushing Hearts Since 2011

So, way back in 2011 I first watched Once Upon a Time. And I really, really meant to recap it since the first season. But life got in the way then and I didn’t start recapping until last year with season 3B.

My sister put me on her Netflix account (thanks KB!) and so I’ve been able to go back to watch Season 1 Once Upon a Time again. Since season 5 doesn’t start until September 27th, I’m going to recap an episode until it comes back. (Yes, I realize I probably should’ve started earlier. But oh well). Maybe I can catch up soon.

So, let’s all go back to the eh year of 2011 and recall how we started the strange yet incredible journey that is Once Upon a Time.

Way, way back in the pilot: Prince Charming awakens Snow White and they get married. The Evil Queen shows up to threaten their happily ever afters and destroy the couple. Snow becomes pregnant and as she gives birth, the Queen casts her spell. Purple clouds devour everything as Charming gets their daughter to a magical escape hatch, being fatally wounded in the process.

That daughter may or may not be Emma Swan, who on her 28th birthday is found by the son she gave up for adoption. He says he’s been adopted by the Evil Queen and he lives in a town where everyone is a fairy tale character but they don’t know it. Emma takes him home and she gets the feeling that something is wrong. Henry asks her to say, his mother (the Mayor) practically bullies Emma to leave and some guy named Gold is creepy.

As she goes to bed, the town clock that’s been broke forever starts to move.

dun dun DUN!

The Astronaut Wives Club: Scandal

Last time on TAWC: Gus heads up into outer space as Betty tries to keep it together. She seeks advice from Louise, who is dealing with her cold persona and relationship with the other women. When something goes wrong during Gus’ flight, he ends up under scrutiny and it affects his whole family.

John Glenn prepares to orbit the Earth while his wife Annie prepares to face the media with her stutter. When John’s flight is delayed, Vice President Johnson comes to visit her himself. But she refuses to let him in and NASA tries to ground John. When the men rally around him, they relent and John eventually orbits the Earth.

Deke Slayton ends up grounded before his big mission and Marge fears her past played a part in it.

Brace for impact.

We pick up where the last episode left off. Marge asks Deke why he’s grounded. He says it’s because of an irregular heartbeat. But Marge notes he’s always had it and Deke says NASA was fine with it when he was chosen. Now they aren’t and he doesn’t know why.

I still think it has something to do with Marge’s past.

The Astronaut Wives Club: SNAFU

Last time on TAWC: We were introduced to the seven men who became the first astronauts and their wives. As the women adjusted to life in the limelight, they also managed to band together. Even Louise Shepherd, who remained aloof and tried to project the image of the perfect wife. Things weren’t always so perfect with her husband Alan, but they loved each other. After his successful trip to outer space, the women prepared for life as astronaut wives and Betty Grissom learned her Gus would be the next to go up.

Commence the Countdown…

Betty and Annie go shopping together. Betty’s looking for the perfect outfit to wear when she goes to the White House. She has a few doubts but Annie manages to convince her to get a yellow Jackie O number, stutter and all. Betty goes for it.

The Astronauts Wives Club: Members’ Only

I had been intrigued by the promos for this show for some time now. The 1960s? A group of women banding together? Romance? Intrigue? Promise of angst? Count me in! Having a summer series can never hurt, right? So enjoy these recaps!

They threw A LOT of characters at us in forty-two minutes (give or take a commercial). So I’m sorry if I don’t know everyone’s name right off the bat. The astronauts and their wives should be easy because—hey—they are historical people. I can look up their names.

Let’s begin.

It’s May 5, 1961 and a rocket carrying Alan Shepherd has just been launched by NASA. If all goes well, Shepherd will be the first American in space. As the rocket climbs into the sky, the camera pulls out into a living room.

Sitting on the couch, holding her breath, is Louise Shepherd. She watches her husband slip beyond Earth as a man sitting next to her asks her for a comment. He’s a reporter for Life, who has the exclusive interview with Mrs. Shepherd. Louise doesn’t say anything.

Nostalgia Nook: Pocahontas

Twenty years ago this week, Pocahontas opened in theaters. It had large shoes to feel, being the Disney movie that followed The Lion King.  Expectations were high. And while Pocahontas had a decent showing, it wasn’t the same megahit as the movies before it. It also pissed off a lot of historians.

And now we’re going to take a look at it.

Can you paint with all the colors of the SPOILER!

OUAT Season 5: Wishes and Thoughts

In a couple weeks (July 8th), the cast and crew returns to Vancouver to begin filming Season 5. Writer and co-producer Jane Espensen has already tweeted that the writers are back at work. So that means one thing:

Time to speculate!

***Please note, these are only my  pure conjecture. I have no ins with the writing staff nor do I possess a crystal ball.***

I feel like we might need a time jump, like between Season 3A and 3B. Mostly because we can’t keep pretending Henry is thirteen when Jared just turned fifteen—and looks it. He’s almost taller than Jennifer Morrison and Lana Parrilla. Let’s get Henry to high school.

Or at least give him a friend. Just someone his own age that he can be a kid with.

Please? What have Ava and Nicholas been up to? Can’t we bring them back? Even if it means a recast?

Gigi: Paris is Paris Again

Once again, I asked to go see a Broadway musical for my birthday. Unlike last year, I got to see it in my birthday month. I wanted to see Gigi and so we went to the Neil Simon Theater, ready to head back Paris during the Belle Epoque.

Unlike last year, I took forever getting this review out. I did want to get my once upon a time recaps out first.

So this is now being posted almost two months after I saw "Gigi" and on the same day it sadly closes. The Tony bloodbath can be awful some years.

Thank Heaven for SPOILERS!

Once Upon a Time Season 5 Updates

This has been a good week for us Oncers!

On Tuesday, it was announced that both Sean Maguire and Rebecca Mader had been promoted to the regular cast. I was expecting Sean's promotion but Rebecca's took me by surprise. Not that I'm not excited about it, though. With Rumple no longer the Dark One, Storybrooke needs a standing villain. (Though I'm still not sure Blue is on the up and up).

(No more of this though. Robin is Regina's. Got it, Greenie?) 

OUAT: Everything is Upsy Daisy

Last time on “Once:” After we see how Isaac became the Author, he then rewrites everything so that the heroes are the villains and vice versa. It’s heartwarming to see that Regina is considered a hero here as Isaac is determined to keep her from having a happy ending. If she does, everything is undone. So Henry works to get Regina to kiss Robin as she tries to stay one step ahead of Evil Snow and Evil Charming. Regina is determined to leave the Enchanted Forest, especially as Robin is marrying Zelena (ugh), so Henry sets out to find Emma, who is trapped in tower.

A tower that looks taken straight from Tangled.

(Seriously!)

Anyway, Henry has to get to said tower. So what does he do? Seek out Hook, of course! He finds the man on the Jolly Roger but it’s soon clear that Hook is not the captain. No, he’s a lowly deckhand who serves the real captain—Blackbeard. Since this is Rumplestiltskin’s happy ending, Hook is a coward. Which makes sense since that’s why Milah accused Rumple of being and why she left him for Hook. Henry takes charge, knocking Blackbeard out and telling Hook they will sail the ship. Hook isn’t sure he can do it by himself but Henry assures him he had a good teacher. “You,” he says. The cowardly pirate looks a bit confused.

(Aww, they wobbified Hook)

OUAT: Topsy Turvy

Last time on “Once:” Emma and Regina return to Storybrooke with Lily, Robin, an unseen Roland and Zelena. Regina immediately threw her sister into a padded cell in the hospital before going to collect the Author. She’s going to have him rewrite the story and give her a happy ending at last. Which means getting some blood from Lily, who is trying to leave town after her reunion with her mother didn’t go as she anticipated. Namely, Maleficent wasn’t as interested in revenge as Lily was. Maleficent asked the Charmings for help and in the process, Mary Margaret is injured. After a heart-to-heart with Hook, Emma forgives her mother just as Lily gives her mother a chance.

In the Enchanted Forest, Cora Freakin’ Mills returned from Wonderland, saying she wanted to help her daughter find true love. Regina reminded her mother that she killed Regina’s true love. But Cora had a run in with the captain of the SS Outlaw Queen, Tinkerbell, and knows about the Man With the Lion Tattoo. She offered to find him but instead found the Sheriff, disguising him as the Man With the Lion Tattoo. Regina saw through him easily and he admitted that Cora promised him he’d be king if he got her pregnant. Regina believed it was a plot by Cora to steal Regina’s throne and so she took a potion to sterilize herself. As Cora returned to Wonderland, she told Regina that she did want Regina to be happy and she wanted her to have a child to experience the joy of motherhood. She told Regina that she is the only one standing in the way of her happiness.

This finally sank in as Regina was about to have the Author write Zelena out of existence. Regina decided to not stand in her way anymore, revealing her happy ending to be the fact that she finally belonged in the world. And Robin was a part of that world, making for some relieved Outlaw Queen shippers—this recapper included. The Author disappeared, going to Gold’s shop in order to change everything and give the villains their happy ending.

Whew! That was one packed episode, wasn’t it?

Doctor Who: Let’s Rob a Bank

Last time on “Doctor Who”: The Doctor tries to figure out what lives under the bed. Clara and Danny have a disastrous first date. She then gets to meet young Danny as well as a descendant of his. As she tries to save the Doctor, Clara ends up in the Doctor’s past and meets him as a child. She realizes she’s the thing under the bed and assures the Doctor there is nothing for him to find. Clara then goes and makes amends with Danny, setting their growing relationship back on course.

Time Heist or “Bonnie and Clyde and Clyde and Bonnie”

The Doctor leads a ragtag band of bank robbers to steal something they can’t remember. Oops.

OUAT: Happy is What Happens When…

Last time on “Once”: Emma and Regina set out on a Team Mom Road Trip to find Maleficent’s daughter, who happens to be Emma’s old friend Lily, and to rescue Robin from Marilena. They find Lily, who knows all about her past and wants to seek revenge against Emma’s parents. Emma is like “I may be pissed off at my parents, but the hell are you going to hurt them.” Meanwhile, Rumple has Will steal Belle’s heart back. When Regina loses her leverage, she’s like “Call a truce and get in the car. I have to save my soul mate.”

When she gets to New York, Robin doesn’t believe her at first. Then Marilena shows her true colors, shocking him. Regina’s like “Thanks, Greenie. Robin, get Roland and get in the car.” But then Robin reveals that Zelena is pregnant. And this was me:

Outlander: You Got Trouble

Last time on “Outlander:” Jamie and Claire return to Lallybroch and get a cool reception from his sister Jenny. Jenny’s husband Ian was a bit more welcoming. Jamie tries to be a laird like his father but keeps screwing things up. After a talk with Ian, Claire sets Jamie straight and this leads to him having a heart-to-heart with Jenny. All seems well…until Claire wakes up to find several guns pointed at Jamie. Uh oh.

So the dirty, wild men pointing guns at Jamie are the Watch. They are pretty much a protection racket, shaking down the Scots for protection against the British. And it’s time for Ian to pay up and play host for a few days. Yet they don’t know why Jamie is in the house and they are suspicious.

(Jamie's getting used to this view)

Nostalgia Nook: The Pebble and the Penguin

In the 90s, Disney Animation was on fire. It kept releasing award-winning and box office topping movies. Other studies tried to capture the Disney magic…several times. Most weren’t as successful as Disney, though they reached their own success. So we have The Pebble and the Penguin.

March of the SPOILERS!

Outlander: Homecoming

Last time on “Outlander:” Geillis and Claire were put on trial for witchcraft. Ned snuck down from Caste Leoch to represent them and did his best to discredit the witnesses. But the people are determined to burn someone, so Claire and Geillis have to chose between them. Geillis reveals she’s not only a Jacobite but from 1968 and after witnessing Jamie save Claire from a flogging, chooses to sacrifice herself. As she’s led away, Jamie runs off with Claire.

In the woods, he asks her for the truth. So she tells him everything—she’s from the future and that she fell through the stones. Jamie takes her back to Craig na Dun, saying goodbye and leaving her free to go back to Frank. But she doesn’t and instead asks Jamie to take her home to Lallybroch.

Credits! Tobias Menzies’ name appears in them, so we’re going to get some Black Jack scenes. Should be good!

Renewals!

ABC has revealed it's renewed shows ahead of upfronts. I'm excited about this because I realized that most of the shows I watch are on the alphabet network.

Once Upon a Time is getting a fifth season! Earlier, staff writer Jane Espenson said the writers are prepared to go on for up to seven seasons. I'm hoping that in the next couple weeks we get word that Sean Maguire has been added as a regular cast member.

And yes, I'll be back to recap Season 5!

Fear not! Princess Isabella won't be trapped forever because Galavant is getting a second season! Here's how I feel:

Yes, I will be recapping season 2.

Len Goodman may be bidding the ballroom goodbye, but we don't have to! Dancing with the Stars will return in the fall as well.

It was also a good day for Marvel. Both Agents of SHIELD and Agent Carter got another season. Yay!

But it's not all good news. Sadly, Forever has been canceled. Unless it lives on somewhere online, this is me:

Here's to the 2015-2016 season!

New Once Poll!

The Once Upon a Time season finale is Sunday.

Or as social media is now calling it--Heroes and Villains.

So pick your side and vote.

OUAT: Reunited and It Hurts So Much

Last time on “Once:” Cruella became suicidal as she tried to keep her past association with the Author (AKA Isaac) from Gold. She kidnapped Henry, delaying Regina’s road trip to save Robin from Marilena. Gold separates the rescue party, making it so Emma faces Cruella alone. She ends up blasting the villain to save Henry, sending Cruella to her death. Mary Margaret and David show up after finding (and leaving) the Author at Gold’s cabin, revealing that the Author made it so that Cruella could never kill again. Henry wasn’t in much danger. Is Emma going dark now?

(Or a month-long vacation complete with a huge sleeping pill)

So, earlier in the week, I made a post on my tumblr about how I decided to have a drink during the show due to all the Outlaw Queen feels I anticipated. I figured it would be a nice way to end my Sunday night. Turns out I really needed it by the end of the episode.

But we’ll get to that. Though I may need another drink by the time I do.

Outlander: J’Accuse

Last time on “Outlander:” Jamie hopes the Duke of Sandringham will help remove the price from his head. Claire warns him about his suspected ties to Black Jack so Ned works out a plan to force the Duke’s hand. Claire also gives the Duke a little incentive and Jamie agrees to help him with a duel.

Meanwhile, Claire learns from Laoghaire that she got the ill wish from Geillis. Geillis then tells Claire that she’s pregnant with Dougal’s baby and she’s trying to get their spouses out of the way. Claire didn’t even know Dougal had one. But then she dies, then Geillis’ husband dies and Claire doesn’t think Geillis had much to do with the former but knows she was responsible for the latter. Jamie has to go away but he warns Claire to avoid Geillis. But when she gets a summons, Claire goes to Geillis’ and the two are arrested for witchcraft.

Credits! I noticed that they changed the credits a bit. Not in images, but who they credit. Tobias Menzies’ name appears nowhere. Instead, Lotte Verbeek (Geillis) and Bill Paterson (Ned Gowan) appear with Caitriona and Sam. Neat.

OUAT: If She Doesn’t Scare You, No Evil Thing Will

Last time on “OUAT:” We spent most of the time with Robin Hood and his family as they settled into New York City. Robin misses Regina and Marian misses her husband. Then Gold shows up and collapses with heart problems. He tasks Robin with stealing something Zelena sent with Walsh and he does. But in the process, Gold (and the audience) learn Marian is really Zelena. She’s been masquerading as Marian for the entire season in order to ruin Regina’s life. She makes a deal with Gold to save his life and then as “Marian” forces Robin to make a choice. He chooses “Marian” and Outlaw Queen fans everywhere reached for their alcoholic beverage of choice.

In the past, Robin tries to go straight for Marian but the Sheriff of Nottingham makes it difficult. Rumplestiltskin offers to help if Robin will steal something from Oz for him. He agrees and Robin meets Will upon arriving in Oz. Will asks for some of the potion Rumple wants for himself. Robin agrees but is caught by Zelena. He does give Will the only vial of the potion he got, returning home empty-handed. Robin decides to return to thieving, but adopts his “steal from the rich, give to the poor” mantra. Marian agrees to stay by his side through it all.

Also, Gold lets Regina call Robin…but she gets her sister instead. He tells her to help him turn Emma dark or Zelena will hurt Robin. Regina chooses Emma over Robin.

Outlander: Dangerous Moves

Last time on “Outlander:” Jamie, Murtagh and some other MacKenzie men stormed Fort William to rescue Claire. They then froze her out until Jamie punished her for disobeying him and putting everyone in danger. He spanks her and she then freezes him out as they return to Castle Leoch. There, Colum learns that Dougal and Ned have been raising money for the Jacobite cause and he’s not happy about it. But Jamie convinces his uncle to support it, so Colum gives them the money. He also decides to invite the Duke of Sandringham for a visit. Jamie apologizes to Claire and the two have makeup sex. After, Claire discovers an ill wish and Jamie reveals it has to come from Laoghaire, who is heartbroken over Jamie and Claire’s marriage.

Cue the credits!

OUAT: One Short Day

Last time on “OUAT:” We learned more about what Snow and Charming did to Maleficent’s child. Afraid about Emma’s potential for darkness, they agree to let the Apprentice transfer all of it into another vessel. They steal Maleficent’s egg, convinced it’s just a dragon. But during the ritual, they realize it’s a human baby. It’s too late and the egg—as well as Cruella and Ursula who tried to rescue it—end up in another world. Snow and Charming are racked with guilt.

Meanwhile, Regina tries to stall the villains from learning more about the Author but Gold figures it out based off a picture. Maleficent places everybody under a sleeping spell—except Mary Margaret, David and Henry are immune. Regina gets Henry to give her a fake page, allowing him to find the key to free the Author. After debating burning the page, Mary Margaret and David come clean to Emma. She frees the Author—despite August telling her that he was shady and that’s why he was trapped. Gold realizes Regina is playing them and knocks her out, saying he has something that’ll convince her to play by their rules.

Excuse me while I catch my breath.

Outlander: The Rescue

Last time on “Outlander:” After their wedding, Claire and Jamie can’t get enough of each other. Jamie learns there might be someone who can clear his name and he goes out to meet the man. He orders Claire to stay behind but she runs off when she spots Craig na Dun in the distance. In the 20th century, Frank is standing by the stones as Claire runs toward them. Before they can be reunited, British soldiers haul her back to Fort William and Black Jack. As he’s about to assault her, Jamie appears in a window with a pistol, ready to rescue his wife.

Time for season one to continue!

Nostalgia Nook: Murder, She Wrote

We love procedurals. And we love mysteries. I guess it’s trying to solve the mystery along with our sleuth. Or sitting on the edge of our seats, praying they figure it out before it’s too late.

I also believe we love to see sleuths who aren’t our usual ideas of detectives. Sure, we love our cops and our Sherlocks. But we also love our amateur sleuths, the ones who fall into it for other reasons. For my most reason example, I cite the new CW show iZombie. Liv Moore (Rose McIver) just wants to be a renowned heart surgeon and marry her fiancé Major. But when she gets turned into a zombie at a party, her plans change. She takes a job in the medical examiner’s office, which gives her a constant supply of brains to eat. It comes with the side effect of her absorbing the dead person’s memories and traits until she’s done digesting the brain. She teams up with a detective and claims to be psychic to explain how she knows the things she does. Together, they solve crimes.

One of my favorite sleuths though is Jessica Fletcher from Murder, She Wrote. So beware murders and SPOILERS!

OUAT: One Wrong Turn

Last time on “OUAT:” We learned more about Ursula’s backstory—how her father made her use her beautiful singing voice to kill sailors as punishment for humans killing her mother. How Ursula rebelled and ran away, making friends with Hook. How Poseidon offered him a way to kill the Crocodile in exchange for his daughter’s voice, which he believed would take away her reason for running away. How Hook at first remained loyal to Ursula until Poseidon wronged him and so he wronged Ursula in retribution. How a bitter Ursula became the sea witch.

In the present, Hook tries to get Ursula her happy ending in order to get more information about Gold’s plan. Emma and her parents plot to rescue August, who reveals more information about the Author to the Queens of Darkness. Regina has a cryptic dream about Robin, leading her to ask Emma to track down her soul mate. A rescued August reveals that the Author is trapped in the book. Meanwhile, Ursula keeps her end of the bargain when her happy ending is restore. She tells Hook that Gold plans to turn Emma dark.

Are you keeping up?

Good.

OUAT: Mysterious Fathoms

Last time on “Once:” Regina infiltrates the Queens of Darkness and survives their tests: getting drunk, destroying public property, nearly getting run over by a train and kidnapping Pinocchio. David and Mary Margaret tells Emma about the undercover plan and Emma immediately deems it a bad idea. She agrees to help Regina but Regina shakes her off since Emma sucks at being covert. Hook tells Belle about the Queens of Darkness and warns Rumple may come back. So he has her hide the dagger, except it’s really Gold so he has his dagger back. He then meets up with the Queens and turns Pinocchio back into August.

And in the Enchanted Forest past: How Maleficent Got Her Groove Back.

OUAT: Mean Girls Edition

Last time on “Once:” Mary Margaret and David did everything to stop the Queens of Darkness from raising Maleficent from being mostly dead. Of course, they failed. Meanwhile, Emma discovered Hook had a past with Ursula he was unwilling to discuss. Regina threatened Pinocchio for information about the book but then went to apologize to Marco for how she behaved. He helped her by giving her things he found with August’s motorcycle. In the Enchanted Forest, the Queens of Darkness enlist the Charmings’ help in asking Grandmother Willow the Tree of Wisdom for help in defeating Regina’s Dark Curse. But Snow’s pregnancy puts the kibosh on that. Later, Maleficent tells Snow she’s expecting too but Snow still refuses to help her. In Storybrooke, Mary Margaret confides in Regina that she and David did something that caused Maleficent to lose her baby. They then ask Regina to go undercover.

This can only end well, right?

(Well, that's ominous)

OUAT: Secrets, Secrets Are No Fun

Last time on “OUAT:” Storybrooke got back into a somewhat normal groove but Gold was about to disturb that. He got two of the Queens of Darkness back together and tricked Belle yet again. He gave her the translation for a spell to unleash the fairies…and Chernabog. With the demon terrorizing Storybrooke and possibly coming after Regina, she and Emma agree to work with Ursula and Cruella. Chernabog is defeated and they let the two into Storybrooke, over Mary Margaret and David’s protestations. They then let Gold into town, who says they need to resurrect Maleficent and keep an eye on Emma, who has potential to go dark. Meanwhile, Mary Margaret and David threaten Ursula and Cruella to stay quiet about some Dark!Secret! our heroes have. Also: not much movement on Operation Mongoose, Regina hasn’t heard from Robin, and the Queens of Darkness helped Rumple get the Dark Curse.

*Take a deep breath*

Nostalgia Nook: The Magic School Bus

A few months ago, 90s kids everywhere got a real thrill: Netflix announced it was reviving The Magic School Bus. A new generation would get to realize why Ms. Frizzle is the best teacher ever.

And maybe a Time Lord.

So why do we love her? Hop on the Magic School Bus and avoid the SPOILERS!

OUAT: Anyone Have a Giant Flyswatter?

Last time on “Once Upon a Time:” With the Snow Queen’s sacrifice, the Frozen arc was wrapped up as Anna, Kristoff and Elsa returned to Arendelle. Anna and Kristoff finally get married. Regina returned Marian’s heart and Robin had to choose. He chose Regina but when Marian collapsed, still icing over, Regina realized she had to leave Storybrooke to be healed. But she couldn’t go out alone as it was a one-way trip. Robin and Roland cross the town line with her as I yelled at my TV. Gold tried to cleave himself from his dagger by crushing Hook’s heart as Mary Margaret and Emma, tipped off by Anna, try to stop him. But it’s Belle who stops him, finally finding his real dagger. She orders him over the town line, banishing him. Gold finds his way to New York, where he discovers Ursula working at an aquarium. He tells her he has a plan.

Welcome back to Storybrooke!

Once Upon a Time Poll!

To the right, you'll see I've put up a new poll. If you're a fan of Once Upon a Time, go and vote! 

Who is your favorite Queen of Darkness? 

Vote until March 15th! 

Prince Charming: A Campy Fun Fairy Tale

So, I was considering doing this for a Nostalgia Nook as it came out in 2001. But I only watched it recently and wanted to save my Nostalgia Nooks for things that actually make me nostalgic. Since I post my Once Upon a Time recaps here and this does feature a cast member, I suppose this counts.

(I apologize for the quality of the screen caps. They're taken from YouTube.)

Rest in Peace

Former Top Model contestant Mirjana Puhar Dead in Triple Homicide

Mirjana is remembered by Top Model cast and creatives

It's a tragedy. I know I wasn't too fond of Mirjana on the show, but I thought she had a great career ahead of her. She just needed more life experiences. Too bad her life was cut short.

God speed.

Nostalgia Nook: Shakespeare in Love

Confession time! I only just watched Shakespeare in Love. It seems odd that it took me this long, too. After all, the movie has many things I like: history, romance, Shakespeare…But it wasn’t until I got Netflix that I finally was able to watch it. So what did I think of the surprise 1998 Oscar winner? Let’s find out! 

Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou SPOILERS!

“Into the Woods”: Fractured Fairy Tales

Once Upon a Time, in a far off kingdom lived a sad young woman, a lonely lad named Jack and a childless baker with his wife.

This is “Into the Woods,” Stephen Sondheim’s musical about fairy tales. Disney and Rob Marshall have brought it to the big screen, working with Sondheim and James Lapine. And being a musical theater geek, of course I saw it.

I had some hesitation when I saw Disney was going to produce the film. Since I was familiar with the stage show, I knew there was a chance it was going to be changed to fit more with the Disney tone. Especially when fairy tales are so synonymous with “Walt Disney.” But it wasn’t as bad as I had initially feared. In fact, it was still very good.

Into the SPOILERS!

Galavant: It’s Ain’t Over…

With the fight still on, Galavant decides to talk to Richard. Gareth agrees to take him to the king. This should be interesting.

(Spoiler alert: It won't happen)

So Galavant goes into Richard’s room and asks if they can get something to drink. Gareth says that the king needs his rest since they have to fight in the morning. He goes to get some rest…and then Richard sneaks out with Galavant to head to a pub for some alcohol.

Galavant: An Interrupted Moment

Last week on “Galavant:” Our singing heroes reached Valencia’s shores and took a break at the Monastery of the Brothers of Our Father of Perpetual Singing, led by Brother Weird Al. Isabella was racked with guilt over having to lead Galavant into a trap while Richard was giddy over the prospect of capturing Galavant at last. Magdalena decided to take matters into her own hands. And Chef was in love. But he had to stand up his lady love when Magdalena switched him for Galavant on the gallows. She offers Galavant a chance to live in the palace as her boy toy but he refuses, seeing her for what she is. He also starts to see Isabella in a new light as those in the dungeons plot. Richard goes with Chef to see Ricky Gervais and realizes his insecurities stem from his brother, Kingsley. And guess who Magdalena has summoned? Kingsley!

Things are heating up for this finale!

Galavant: Realizing Some Truths

When we last left our heroes before the commercial break, they had been captured by Richard after Galavant and Sid discovered Isabella had betrayed them. Sentenced to death, Galavant is saved when Magdalena switched him for the Chef, who thought he was on his way to a romantic dinner with the queen’s handmaiden Gwynne. Thankfully, the king realized the switch before he hanged his favorite Chef.

Now what?

Galavant: Have Fun Storming the Castle!

Last time on Galavant: Galavant and Isabella spend the night in Sid’s hometown, where they learn Sid hasn’t been truthful about his adventures. The townfolk believe he’s the hero and Galavant is his squire. Galavant reluctantly plays along while Isabella gets a little too involved, claiming she and Sid are betrothed. Sid’s parents throw a ball in their honor. Meanwhile, in Valencia, Richard throws a ball to relieve the boredom he’s feeling. It doesn’t go so well—mostly because Richard has done away with most things needed for a ball while invading Valencia—until he turns it into a roast. The Eunuch finally tells the king that his wife is cheating with the Jester, ending the party. Richard seeks out the Jester, asking to learn how to make the queen laugh. Meanwhile, Galavant helps the Pirate Lord Bonneville’s pirates fix their boat while Isabella grapples with her guilt over leading Galavant into a trap.

With Valencia in sight, let the show begin!

Galavant: A Pirate’s Life for Me

Anyone else disoriented by the start of this episode? I felt like the previous episode needed a better, more proper ending. We go from Sid telling his parents they need to talk to our singing heroes on the road again. It was jarring and I was like “What just happened?”

Our trio starts with a song about how they are the best of friends now and are working well together. Except when they are getting on each other’s nerves. Like how Galavant eats all the raisins out of the trail mix, how Sid feels likes a third wheel and how Isabella snores at night. (She also eats with her mouth open). But otherwise, they’re doing alright as they reach the waterway which will lead them to Valencia. Isabella suggests they go another way due to bandits but Galavant doesn’t listen to her.

(There might be some tension)

Guess what happens? If you guessed they get captured by bandits—you’re right! Congrats!

(Oops)

Galavant: Let’s Have a Kiki

Last week: We are introduced to Galavant, a brave knight quashed when the love of his life willingly marries the king. The king, though, appears to be on the losing end of that deal as she’s demanding and cold to him. Galavant is then charged by Princess Isabella of Valencia to help her free her country from Richard. He agrees, unaware Isabella is working for the king. After a training montage and defeating Sir Uncle Jesse in a joust, Galavant is feeling more like his old self.

Oh, and there’s lot’s of singing along the way.

And that’s what you missed on Glee Galavant.

Nostalgia Nook: Happily Ever After

It’s easy to believe Disney has a monopoly on fairy tales. And in some ways, they do. Yet there are a few who give Disney a run for their money. For example, a few years ago, I covered Shelley Duval’s “Fairie Tale Theater.” And now, I’m covering HBO’s animated take on fairy tales.

We have clear visions of what a fairy tale princess and prince look like: Blond hair, blue eyes, white as Wonder Bread. Of course, most of them are based off the Grimm Brothers’ fairy tales, which were German in origin. (Hitler, Nazism and the Aryan belief didn’t just come out of nowhere, after all). But HBO took that and went: “Nah, man. We’re going to make sure every child can see themselves in the fairy tale. So there!”
Thus, we have “Happily Ever After: Fairy Tales for Every Child.”

Once upon a SPOILER!

Galavant: Hark! It is John Stamos!

ABC has made the decision to air “Galavant” back to back to fill an hour. Not entirely sure why, but hey—time for more Galavant!

We open with Galavant being reunited with Magdalena. Except not as King Richard soon appears. Galavant tries to fight him but he’s not wearing any pants. Everyone starts to laugh and Galavant starts screaming.

It’s at that point he wakes up. Isabelle and Sid are glad—he’s been screaming for a while. They break camp and head out to continue their quest. And they sing about it as well. It’s not as catchy as the title song, but it’s good. Isabella even slips in that she’s working for the king and Galavant thinks he hears her but she keeps singing that he didn’t hear anything.

(A nightmare as old as time)

Galavant: The Mightiest Earworm Ever

It may even be more catchy than It’s a Small World.

Admit it: You’re singing it now.

Yes, that opening song to “Galavant,” ABC’s foray into musical TV shows. In it, we learn everything we need to know: Galavant is the greatest hero in some unnamed faraway kingdom. He falls in love with Magdalena and the two are quite happy together. Until one day the king, Richard, decides to kidnap Magdalena and make her his queen. We open on their wedding day as Galavant rides to rescue his beloved.

There’s just one problem: she’s decided that she’d rather have the fame and fortune Richard can give her over Galavant’s love. So she lets him down and marries the king. Heartbroken, Galavant retreats to his humble cottage and begins wallowing. And that’s where our story truly begins.

(Who doesn't want to be queen?)

Aladdin: Once Again, Genie Steals the Show

Disney on Broadway strikes again! This time, the House of Mouse offers it’s 1992 classic “Aladdin” in live musical form.

My family and I went to go see it after Thanksgiving. We trooped into the city and made our way to the New Amsterdam theater. Our performance played to almost a full house, which was nice. Even if the person a few seats down from me spent nearly the entire show on his or her cell phone until the usher flashed them to put the phone away.

Let’s go ride on a magic carpet into a whole new world of SPOILERS!

A Royal Christmas: Because A Princess for Christmas Was Taken

No, I’m pretty sure that’s why the title was chosen. Because the other one was taken. It’s still an American girl, a small European nation and being out of her element. And of course, Christmas.

So grab your tiara and avoid the SPOILERS!

Top 10 News Stories of 2014

Hard to believe but 2014 is over. It’s been a year. And as we’re bidding it farewell, let’s take a look back. Once again, these are the top news stories as voted on by the monkeys in my head. They look forward to this every year.

Here’s to 2014!

OUAT: Farvel

Last time on “OUAT:” Storybrooke fell under the Shattered Sight curse. Gold got Hook to do his bidding but the pirate failed to bring Henry to him. The Evil Queen and Mary Margaret had an epic fight in the Sheriff’s office. Emma and Elsa try to get Ingrid to stop the curse while her past with Emma unfolds. Anna finds the key on the beach and Ingrid sacrifices herself in order to save Storybrooke. Everything is back to normal.

For now.

A Princess For Christmas

I’m surprised I haven’t reviewed this movie before. Actually, I swore I had until I checked my tags. And my archived posts. So I’m doing it now!

It’s the Christmas season! Which means I’m bingeing on Hallmark. And this movie is a staple of their Christmas season.

Beware royal SPOILERS!

Big Hero 6: More Likeable Heroes Than the Guardians of the Galaxy

My family and I continued our Black Friday tradition of going to the movies. Once again, it was a Disney movie. I had heard great things about Big Hero 6. So we chose to go see it.

Hello, I’m your personal SPOILER robot.

OUAT: The Great Thaw

Last time on “OUAT:” Storybrooke braces for the Shattered Sight curse. Elsa believes she can find her sister and Belle says that if Anna was under the curse, they might be able to make a vaccine. After a few false leads, Elsa manages to find Anna and Kristoff—they had unfrozen in Arendelle and tried to escape Prince Hans. Except Blackbeard two-timed them and threw them overboard. When they get Anna to Granny’s, they discover the fairies are gone. Under Rumple’s orders, Hook has trapped them in the hat. Everyone takes cover and braces for the worst.

Things are getting ugly in Storybrooke.

OUAT: Under Pressure

Last time on “OUAT”: Emma freaked out about her out of control powers and decided to ask Gold to take them away. Regina and Robin had a night of passion followed by a day filled with her helping locate Emma while him tried to find more information about the storybook for her. Hook tries to stop Emma as does Elsa. The latter succeeds while the former loses his heart to Gold. Robin discovers something that could change everything for Regina. In Arendelle, Anna and Elsa plot to take down Auntie Ingrid but she gets the drop on them. She casts Shattered Sight on Anna, which is how Elsa ended up in the urn. Rumple stole the urn back and the Apprentice sent Ingrid into our world to wait for Emma. Now, she’s casting Shattered Sight on all of Storybrooke.

Duck for cover, here comes another curse.

(You think the residents of Storybrooke are used to this by now? Like the rest of them are like “Oh, another curse? Must be Thursday”?)

OUAT: Those You’ve Known

Last time on OUAT: See my recap for Part I.

And now onto Part II!

Emma arrives at the Abandoned Mansion at the edge of town. You know, the one Belle and Gold honeymooned in back in the premiere. She meets up with Gold, who has set up the hat in the ballroom. He tells her all she has to do is walk through the doors. Emma asks him what he would do. He tells her he wouldn’t do it. But then again he’s power hungry and only looking out for himself. He’s not to be trusted. Which should be Emma’s cue to RUN AWAY.

She doesn’t.

(Seriously. Not to be trusted)

ANTM: Let’s Hear It For the Boy

This past cycle on “ANTM”: It was another cycle of girls vs. boys! Romeo seemed to have an eerie power to send people home…until he broke the show’s “no physical contact” rule and got himself eliminated. Mirjana fell in love with Matthew until he rejected her after learning she had a boyfriend. Then she moved on to Denzel while Kari and Keith started flirting before she was eliminated. Chantelle was brought back before the models went to South Korea. Tyra addressed Adam’s drinking while the models didn’t like Chantelle. It’s boiled down to four finalists, but when we last left off only a few minutes ago, someone was about to go—Lenox or Keith. Who will get to walk in the final runway and compete for the (dubious) honor of “America’s Next Top Model”?

Find out!

Wanna be on top?

ANTM: Welcome Back

Last time on “ANTM”: The final five had to learn lines in English and Korean for a challenge with Korean soap opera stars. Adam flubbed up, Lenox let her nerves get to her and Keith charmed Clara for the win. Then the guys imitated Elvis while the girls imitated Marilyn Monroe in their photoshoot. Adam surprised everyone by rising to the top while Lenox and Shei landed in the bottom two. In the end, Lenox would go on to represent the girls in the finale. Four finalists remain, who will be crowned America’s Next Top Model? 

Find out!

Wanna be on top?

Nostalgia Nook: The Santa Clause 2

It’s December! Hopefully you aren’t sick of Christmas yet. We have twenty days to go. Enjoy the season!
A few year’s ago, I wrote about “The Santa Clause,” the movie staring Tim Allen as a man who lost sight of what was really important until he became Santa Claus. It has since become a Christmas classic. But it took some time for the movie to get a sequel. (I think Tim Allen’s legal troubles probably played a large role in the hiatus). So, how’s the sequel? Let’s take a look.

You better not pout, you better not cry, you better not shout, I’m telling you why—SPOILERS are coming to town!

OUAT: The Mirror Blue Night

Last time on “Once”: We learn more about Ingrid and her sisters. They tried to keep Ingrid’s powers at bay and support her though they do pay a visit to Rumplestilskin. After a tragic accident, Gerda traps Ingrid in the urn. In Storybrooke, Emma captures Ingrid, a plot by Ingrid to mess with Emma’s head. Make her doubt her family and their love for her. When her powers go haywire, it looks like Ingrid might be right. Emma flees as her loved ones worry. Meanwhile, Robin gives into his feelings for Regina.

And Marian is still a popsicle.

OUAT: Trapped in Ice

Last time on “Once:” Emma wants to know more about Sarah Fisher and why she’s so obsessed with her. Robin wants to know why Regina’s avoiding him. That answer is that she can’t unfreeze Marian so he’s just going to have to fall back in love with his wife. Belle reveals she knew Anna in the past having met her while on a quest to discover how her mother died. Anna learns that Auntie Sarah is really Auntie Ingrid, who was one of her mother’s two sisters. Auntie Ingrid captures Anna while Belle feels guilty she didn’t help her friend. After a run in with the Snow Queen’s mirror, Belle comes clean to Elsa. They discover Ingrid is trying to replace her sisters with Elsa and Emma.

Whew.

ANTM: LINE!

Last time on “ANTM”: Chantelle continued to rub everyone the wrong way. Kelly set the models loose on Seoul for go-sees. Chantelle didn’t win many people over and Will was too tall for the clothes. Keith and Lenox did the best but Keith won the challenge. After a photoshoot for shoes, Keith continued to stay at the top. Adam and Chantelle fell into the bottom and Chantelle was eliminated for a second time. Five models remain, who will be eliminated tonight? Find out!

Wanna be on top?

Ms. J pays a visit to the Model Suite! He tells them about Korean soap operas. And the models are going to be in one. Lenox is not thrilled about that, saying she gets nervous. Ms. J then reveals some of the script is in Korean. Keith is nervous about not remembering but he vows to make them like him. Ms. J tells them they are the top 5, the competition is on and they are not friends now. He wishes them luck.

Everyone studies their script. Will says he has to pretend to be straight again and is nervous. Adam is focused and says he can memorize lines easily. He celebrates that he doesn’t need the script and everyone is like “Wha?” Will and Lenox think he’s going to get in his own way.

CREDITS!