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Posts Tagged ‘Danai Guirra’

The Ones Who Live Episode 6 Review

Posted in Fantasy literature, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on April 3, 2024| Leave a Comment »

by LaTaeya Lane

Warning mild spoilers below.

TWD: The Ones Who Live was an epic ending to an epic love story.

Rick and Michonne head back to the CRM to obtain the dossier and to sabotage the Echelon Briefing. Each is responsible for their mission. Determined to return home, Rick is fueled with the hope of what he once was as he embarks on getting into the CRM to change things from the inside.

As their journey expands and their personalities shift into more complex individuals, we can still see the Rick and Michonne that we fell in love with in previous seasons of The Walking Dead.

Rick and Michonne overcome many obstacles throughout their journey while closing in on their most significant victory. The power couple beats all the odds to complete their mission. Rick nervously embraces his new lease on life and quickly reconnects with the people he loves.

The Ones Who Live intensely focused on Rick’s trauma and the CRM’s position and purpose in society. Michonne’s journey is centered on her love for Rick, who created a force of nature to change their world and the world beyond them.

The Ones Who Live was a masterpiece, as it continued to tell the whole story of Rick Grimes. Starting from the day he was shot and woke up from a coma, Rick’s intent to “find his family” and protect them has been at the forefront of his arc. Rick’s journey has led him to find his family and “focus on the future.” Rick’s desire to “thrive and fortify” will forever be etched into the astounding theme that love conquers all, and love is what makes people thrive and fortify. Rick has been through many trials and tribulations, but the one thing that has gotten him through is the love he shared with Michonne and his love for all the people who have come and gone throughout this time. Since Morgan saved him, Rick’s life has been shaped by each person who has played a role in his story.

Rick was born to lead.

Leadership is part of Rick’s DNA. As a Sheriff’s Deputy, the Leader of the Survivors, the town Leader of Alexandria, and a sergeant of the CRM, we see how much Rick’s Leadership has evolved. Rick’s personality is complex yet gentle. He is also edgy, determined, fierce, powerful, haunted, broken, hurtful, doubtful, and hopeful. He is a character who will heal from his pain but will always be a powerhouse in the world of The Walking Dead.

The last episode of Ones Who Live was a stunning example of how Rick’s story of survival can and will continue to live in the hearts of The Walking Dead Fandom. I’m still hoping for season 2 where we see Rick rebuild his life and reunite with Morgan, Daryl, Maggie, Carol, Ezekiel, Aaron, and even Negan. There is always more story to tell, and I would be honored to experience it again.

Check out The One’s Who Live on AMC+. Can’t get enough of The Walking Dead? Check out season 2 of Daryl Dixon coming Summer of 2024!

L.L.

Here is a sneak peek of season 2 of Daryl Dixon: The Book of Carol:

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The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live Episode 1 Review

Posted in AMC shows, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on February 26, 2024| Leave a Comment »

Warning Some Spoilers Below:

by LaTaeya Lane

TWD: The Ones Who Live, directed by Bert and Bertie Ellwood and starring Andrew Lincoln and Danai Gurira, continues the epic love story of the famous Colt Python slinger Rick Grimes and the Katana Sword-wielding Michonne. This story takes place in two different locations, as our main characters face a multitude of challenges, obstacles, and interesting circumstances along their journey to find each other. Rick’s journey to the CRM started after he blew up the bridge outside of Alexandria; Jadis found him near death on the edge of the river. Then we see Rick riding off into the world of the unknown in a helicopter with Jadis in tow.

Unsatisfied with their search efforts, Michone found herself going out to find Rick, feeling in her heart that he was not dead. She set out to expand her search beyond the borders of their walled community. On her travels, she ran into a man named Virgil in connection to a mysterious boat. The boat contained Rick’s Boots, a cell phone with an etched photograph of her and Judith, and a message written in Japanese, which were clues to prove that Rick was alive.

Their journey to each other leads them on a path to a much bigger and broken world.

Rick finds himself in a community held against his will and does everything he can to reunite with his love, Michonne, including attempting to escape several times.

Episode 1 takes us inside the CRM as we see the life that Rick Grimes is living. He tries to hang on to the love and life of his past while his hope for finding his family and the future he envisions slowly fades away.

Rick’s newfound relationships appear to be established with great caution as Okafor (portrayed by Craig Tate) tries to push Rick into a major Leadership role within the CRM. During this recruitment process, we learn that Rick undergoes extensive Military training. We see Rick do everything from hand-to-hand combat training to Walker extraction and flight training. While receiving this training, he mentally resists the idea of being a CRM leader. He finds himself amid an internal rebellion whose purpose is to change the inner workings of the CRM.

Rick’s resistance leads him on a path of four failed escape attempts, with his last effort finally bringing his comic book character storyline to life with the mutilation of his left hand.

By the end of the episode, Rick tries to let go of the idea that he will return to Michonne and his family. As he tries to open himself to the possibility of a new future, unexpected firepower suddenly takes down a routine supply run with Okafor’s group in one of the very helicopters that he has learned to fly. He crashes into a nearby field. Rick escapes the aircraft to an even more dangerous situation. Rick’s protective mask is taken off to reveal his face, while the individual who killed the others in his group is shown to be none other than his one true love, Michonne.

They stare at each other for several long moments as their mouths are dropped in awe.

This episode was by far one of the best episodes that the TWD Universe has presented to us. The storytelling process and the spectacular cinematography have created a fresh take and a different perspective on how Rick’s adventure has continued through his long absence within the universe. The world of the CRM and the secrets they hold create a more detailed idea of the puzzle pieces that the CRM has left us throughout this time. Andy Lincoln’s portrayal of Rick Grimes is award-winning, bringing us back to when TWD was all about Rick since season 1, episode 1, Days Gone By. The entire production was done amazingly. The new Costume designs tell a story within themselves and add to the experience of drawing us into Rick’s life. The “what if “scenes with Michonne and Rick were captivating and very special. Seeing them engage with each other in a new way was magical. The supporting cast meshed well throughout the episode and did an excellent job blending their fresh take with Rick’s story.

It is going to be fantastic to see how this unfolds.

Episode 1 of The Ones Who Live was a great start to this new thrill ride, and I am all in!!!

Ten stars!!

L.L.

Check out the trailer below. The Who Live airs Sundays on AMC at 9:00

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Black Panther: Wakanda Forever Review

Posted in Fantasy literature, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on November 13, 2022| Leave a Comment »

by LaTaeya Lane

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever Review

Wakanda Forever directed by Ryan Coogler and starring Angela Bassett, Danai Gurira, Letitia Wright, and Lupita Nyong’o follows the story of how the world of Wakanda tries to find its place as they deal with the tragic events of losing King T’Challa.

This film was an epic adventure that introduced fans to a new villain, Namor portrayed by Tenoch Huerta as well as introduced us to a new generation of Black Female superheroes. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’s overall theme explored the impact of how devastating grief can have on loved ones as well as a community, but it also displayed the gentle tenderness of pain while exposing the grandeur and immense power of love, hope, family, and traditions.

The all-star cast conveyed raw emotion as their on and off- screen chemistry and love for Chadwick Boseman poured through each heartfelt performance. Angela Bassett delivered an award-winning performance as the mother of the late King while ruling as the Queen of Wakanda. Letitia Wright also deserves recognition for a job well done as she walked on the line of displaying such realism and strength in her role.

The Walking Dead’s Danai Gurira did an amazing job portraying the Wakandan General Okoye. Her performance projected the true spirit of love and loyalty in only a way that she could deliver.

The special effects blended well throughout the film and the score added to the raw emotion that the performers gave. The costumes and set designs were stunning as each look created a unique balance within the characters’ personalities as well as set the tone and mood to make the setting more magical. The action sequences were intense and drew you in as if you were fighting along with the characters. The origin story of Namor and his people was written very well and opened the door to an infinite form of possibilities regarding story development and the possible expansion of the Marvel Universe including the further exploration of Wakanda’s place in the world of the Avengers.

Marvel created an amazing tribute to Chadwick that is sure to leave moviegoers in tears. Overall, I gave this film five stars for the beautiful story and theater experience that it showcased.

L.L.

Check out the trailer below:

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The Walking Dead Episode 9 Recap/Review

Posted in AMC shows, Comic Book Movies, Fantasy literature, Horror Movies, Horror shows, Reviews, Walkers, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , on February 22, 2022| Leave a Comment »

Season 11 Episode 9: Major Spoiler Alert!

The Walking Dead Season 11-part B picked up where we last left Daryl as he was officially recruited to join the Reapers. Still reeling from Pope’s death and Daryl’s so-called “betrayal,” we find Leah completely changed as her true colors surface while taking on the leadership role of the Reapers. Maggie, Elijah, and Negan find themselves in an all-out war against Carver. Determined to capture her to settle the score with Maggie, Carver’s army of one is eventually subdued. Negan leaves after the fight with Carver. Daryl manages to make his way back to Maggie while using the Reaper Carver as bait to negotiate a peaceful truce between the two groups. Gabriel lurks in the shadows while he waits for the perfect moment to strike. He briefly battles an inner struggle of faith, reason, and survival while engaging in a defining character moment with the Reaper Preacher. This moment shows strength and a formidable force that Gabriel tries to remain contained within but unleashes when necessary. Elijah is injured from the fight with Carver and makes Maggie promise that the Reapers get what they deserve after they kill his sister Josephine. Maggie’s take no prisoners attitude quickly contributes to things ending with the deaths of the Reapers by her own hand. Daryl and Maggie find themselves on opposite sides as Maggie attempts to end things with Leah. She takes a shot at Leah but only grazes her shoulder. Leah manages to get away, and Daryl goes after her but allows her to leave, realizing that they might have had a life together if they had made different choices. Maggie and the group find the food they are looking for, and she keeps her promise to go back for Alden. Unfortunately, she learns that Alden is now a Walker.

Suffering from another loss, Maggie and the group push forward as they reunite with Gabriel and the members of their Alexandrian Community. Daryl discovers that Connie is alive and well. Aaron and Rosita save Judith and Gracie from the basement Walkers. The community experiences a moment of peace, and when they think, they may need to fight again, Eugene returns with the Commonwealth Community. 

No Other Way was a great episode that closed one story chapter and opened another. We soon experience another time jump in the Walking Dead’s storytelling process. In the upcoming scenes, some Alexandria members are trying to fit into the Commonwealth lifestyle. As we see Daryl dressed in Commonwealth soldier attire, we are unsure what this means exactly. He approaches The Hilltop and comes to talk to Maggie or offer her something. Maggie seems uninterested, and the Hilltop looks like it is undergoing reconstruction. Those who have read the comics know that the presence of the Commonwealth may not mean that it is a good thing.

Overall, the production of The Walking Dead has gotten better with time. The Basement Walker scene with Aaron was amazing. At this point, Aaron has taken on the persona of a superhero as he keeps pushing his human limits; he has evolved on so many levels. Judith’s abilities have also improved, and she proves time and time again that she is Rick and Michonne’s daughter. Maggie’s ability to lead and her strength has transformed into a powerful force to reckon with. We see a complete pillar of determination with her and the other characters as well. The Walking Dead’s look has also transformed into a blockbuster theater experience. The sets are more extensive and have more depth, personality, and energy. The story expands with each episode, and the bricks are being laid to reveal Rick’s return. As the story develops, Daryl is more than the lone wolf. We see his ability to love, fight and survive among the harshest and trying of circumstances. Daryl’s love for holding on to his true family has ignited a light in him that cannot be easily extinguished. This episode is worth watching more than once.

I am looking forward to seeing what the rest of the season will bring with the hope of Rick and Michonne returning before the end of the season.  

Check out the trailer below:

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The Walking Dead Season 10 Premiere

Posted in Fantasy literature, Reviews, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on October 7, 2019| Leave a Comment »

Warning  Light Spoilers below…

Season 10 of The Walking Dead directed by Greg Nicotero picks up several months after the people of Alexandria suffered major losses at the hand of the Whisperers. The story continues as Rick’s legacy lives on within Alexandria. The communities band together to prepare for another battle.

Daryl and Carol once again make a deep-rooted connection while attempting to make plans to see what’s beyond the realm of Alexandria, Hilltop, Kingdom and Oceanside. MICHONNE learns that Judith is a lot stronger than she seems and realizes that her maturity level is more than she anticipated. The group faces a major challenge as they attempt to stay within the boundaries of the agreement between the communities and the Whisperers.

Overall this was a very enlightening episode that showcased the strength of many of the newcomers. Some of our favorite characters like Daryl are opening up more and making more connections with the community. Alpha’s daughter is trying to create a home for herself in the community while Negan continues to step out embracing humanity.

The flow of the episode was good and provided fans with the expectations and excitement of what our vision of a season 10 premiere should be. The opening scene was epic and the show displayed a great deal of elevation and evolution among characters, plot, setting, and mood. The Walking Dead has now stepped into the future of survival and has demonstrated what true unity means within the spectrum of humanity.

I can’t wait to see how this season unfolds.

L.L.

Check out the trailer below…

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Black Panther Movie Review

Posted in Fantasy literature, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , on February 21, 2018| Leave a Comment »

 

Black Panther 2018

Black-Panther-poster-main-xl

Black Panther Movie Review

Marvel’s Black Panther Directed by Joe Robert Cole and starring Chadwick Boseman, Danai Guirra and Lupita Nyong’o tells the story about a man’s rise to power as he claims his right to the African Throne of Wakanda. Wakanda is a technologically advanced African nation that is isolated from the outside world. As T’Challa embraces his new role as King, he is constantly challenged as the secrets of his past begin to surface. He struggles to maintain the throne and keep Wakanda’s existence concealed from everyone. The modern world and the realm of Wakanda quickly begin to clash once an ancient Wakandian artifact is stolen from a museum. The secrets of Wakanda’s technology are about to become public knowledge from the exposure of a past and new arising threat.

Overall, I thought that this movie was very engaging and filled with action. I would not expect less because of the high expectations that Marvel Comic movies present. Everything fell into place nicely. The Score took you on the journey with the characters, and the special effects were impressive. There were some moments that could have been cut in the editing room, but for the most part, the movie was well made. The cast was great, and Boseman did well in portraying his character, but I must say, seeing Danai in action made me love her even more. Obviously, I’m a big fan of TWD, so I felt that Danai stole the show in so many ways. Her strength and tenacity within her acting were so inspiring that it made me want to see more of her. Her character and (developed) backstory could be featured in a stand-alone film. Danai was spectacular! I know I didn’t really mention the first villain, (Ulysses Klaue) Andy Serkis, but It’s important because he also played a significant part in The Age of Ultron film.  (Everette K. Ross) played by Martin Freeman reprised his role as prominent CIA Agent investigating the peculiar Earthly revelations that technology has embarked within the modern world. (Ross also had a prominent role in (Captain America Civil War) as well. It was nice to see Serkis and Martin Freeman together again. It’s very clear that Marvel is crossing over all the films so that they can become a cohesive Universe. All the pieces of the puzzle are beginning to fit very nicely. This is setting the tone for the first Infinity War Movie which is set to release in theaters this May. I saw a clip of the Avengers alongside the Black Panther and Okoye running toward something. I’m sure the clip is still floating on the internet.

Black Panther was a great film; it is a must see. I give this movie 5 stars!

L.L.

Black-Panther-Poster- michone

Check out the trailer below!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZ4xKXKQSww

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