Scorchin' Summer Streamin' 25 - Boots - Season One/Series Finale

Following Heated Rivalry, Boots is the other gay series that caused a stir, streaming on Netflix back in October. It will be my final catch up for the Scorchin' Summer Streamin' 25 series, before I hit publish on the #RATED post for some NYE inspiration.

This military comedy/drama series was created by Andy Parker, based on the memoir The Pink Marine by Greg Cope White. 

Boots follows Cameron Cope (Miles Heizer) , a closeted gay teenager from Louisiana who enlists in the United States Marine Corps alongside his best friend Ray McAffey (Liam Oh). 

Set in 1990, when the military excluded gay people from service, the story depicts their boot camp training under Sergeant Sullivan (Max Parker), a drill instructor who takes special interest in Cope. 

Boots also stars Ana Ayora, Blake Burt, Cedrick Cooper, Dominic Goodman, Nicholas Logan, Kieron Moore, Angus O'Brien, Rico Paris, & Bates Motel's very own, Vera Farmiga.

When the series first started streaming on Netflix back in October, it received positive reviews from critics.

But then came the backlash from conservatives and The Pentagon under the Trump administration. Gotta love the arts under King Don.

Therefore, Boots was canceled after one season earlier this month.

Now, unlike Heated Rivalry, aside from the shower scenes, this wasn't horny at all!

Also it really wasn't that good. Proving my theory of Netflix being quantity over quality. There are good titles (like the final season of Squid Game, I have finally started), however a lot is just average. Like Sirens, this wasn't bad, but when we have HBO Max, Paramount+, Apple TV, Stan, Amazon, you really need to lift your game. No wonder why Netflix wants to buy HBO.

So how'd Boots end? With a whimper if you ask me. I'm pretty sure (as it was based on a book) this could have just been a neat and tidy miniseries. Either way, as the end of Boot Camp is around the corner, the recruits face a final test like no other that has them relying on brotherhood to make it past the finish line. 

John and Cody receive terrible news. Cameron learns a surprising revelation that could jeopardise everything he worked for. Sullivan makes a life-altering decision.

So as the final credits rolled, another Netflix show goes off to the TV graveyard quietly. Here is hoping Netflix offer some stronger titles in 2026.

Film Influencer 2025 - Anaconda

Bring back the 90's and a Nicki Minaj jam! The snake is back, baby! Doug (Jack Black) and Griff (Paul Rudd) have been best friends since they were kids, and have always dreamed of remaking their all-time favourite movie: the cinematic classic Anaconda. 

When a midlife crisis pushes them to finally go for it, they head deep into the Amazon to start filming. But things get real when an actual giant anaconda appears, turning their comically chaotic movie set into a deadly situation. The movie they’re dying to make? It might just get them killed!

Anaconda is a meta reboot of the classic, 1997 film, Anaconda. Believe it or not, this is the sixth instalment in the Anaconda film series. 

Alongside Rudd & Black, Steve Zahn, Westworld's Thandiwe Newton, Daniela Melchior & Selton Mello star, with a couple of special cameos.

Anaconda (thus far) has received mixed reviews from critics, whilst grossing $43.6 million worldwide. It has almost made budget! Yes, films still can make their budgets!

God I loved all the cheap shots at Hollywood, including "there are no new ideas right?". So true for the year of film that was 2025! Honestly this sums up 2025 really. A funny, piss take of the current state of cinema. Cause let's be honest, it's a little grim.

That said, I had a ball watching this film. And the cameos! WOW!

Will this win any awards when award season rolls around next year? HELL NO. Will anyone remember this film? Nope. But if Sony do intend to keep this franchise alive (which if you get the clues at the end) I reckon this old rubber snake has a film or two left in the franchise.

Honestly The Housemaid and Anaconda could have been the two best films of the last twelve months and I have seen them both in the past few weeks!

Anaconda is solid. 3.5 Stars. FUN!

Scorchin' Summer Streamin' 25 - Sirens - Miniseries

Sirens is a comedy limited series created by Molly Smith Metzler, based on her 2011 play Elemeno Pea. Streaming on Netflix back in May, I am finally catching up with the Julianne Moore and Kevin Bacon five episode run.

Sirens has received generally positive reviews from critics. Set over the course of a single weekend at a luxurious beach estate, the series explores themes of gender, power, and social class. Sirens is described as an incisive, sexy, and darkly funny exploration of women, power, & class!

Devon (Meghann Fahy) thinks her sister Simone (Milly Alcock) has a really creepy relationship with her new boss, the enigmatic socialite Michaela Kell (Moore). 

Michaela’s cult-ish life of luxury is like a drug to Simone, and Devon has decided it’s time for an intervention. But she has no idea what a formidable opponent Michaela will be. 

Want to know more about this fun, trashy, little Netflix run....

Devon, a sharp-witted but troubled young woman, becomes increasingly alarmed by her sister Simone's unsettling entanglement with her new employer, the enigmatic and controlling billionaire Michaela Kell. 

When Devon decides to track down Simone and impulsively invites herself to Michaela's opulent estate on the fictional island of Port Haven, tensions quickly rise. 

As Devon observes the psychological dynamics at play, she grows convinced that Simone is caught in a toxic and potentially dangerous friendship. 

Determined to pull her sister back to reality, Devon stages an intervention—only to find herself drawn into Michaela's manipulative web. 

If you binged this back in May, following the trailer will have no spoilers, but for those who want a recap of the finale, read on!

Ethan survives the fall from the cliff. 

Morgan invites Devon on a month-long yacht trip, but she declines in favour of returning to Buffalo with Bruce. 

Prompted by the kissing photo, Michaela fires Simone, leaving her in a state of shock. 

Jose escorts Simone, Devon, and Bruce to pick up Raymond from jail, where he had spent the night sobering up. During the pickup, Simone runs off to say goodbye to Peter. Jose drives back to retrieve her. 

At the gala dinner, Devon accuses Michaela of running a cult and being involved in Jocelyn's death—only to learn Jocelyn is alive, living in seclusion after a failed plastic surgery. 

Peter tells Michaela he wants a divorce and confesses to feeling uninspired, resenting their childlessness, and fearing Michaela's collection of evidence of his affairs—meant to protect her under the prenuptial agreement. 

He begins a relationship with Simone and asks Jose to escort Michaela out. Devon confronts Simone about her involvement with Peter. Simone invites her to stay at the estate with Bruce, but she declines. 

On the ferry home, Devon runs into Michaela and apologises for her accusations, and Michaela encourages Devon to cash the $10,000 check she gave her. Simone, now mistress of the House on the Cliff, gazes out to sea with a satisfied smile on her face.

Next I'm on my Netflix catch up journey, I'm heading to Boots! Love a controversial series. NEXT!

Scorchin' Summer Streamin' 25 - Heated Rivalry - Season One

Heated Rivalry is the horny Canadian sports/romance series everyone is talking about right now! The gay drama that has tongues waging, the world over. Streaming on HBO Max in Australia, the series being a Crave original in Canada.

Created, written, and directed by Jacob Tierney, the series is based on Rachel Reid's Game Changers novel series.

Following two rival professional hockey players, Canadian Shane Hollander (Hudson Williams) and Russian Ilya Rozanov (Connor Storrie), whose on-ice animosity conceals a passionate, secret romance. 

Also starring, François Arnaud, Robbie G.K., Christina Chang, Ksenia Daniela Kharlamova, Sophie Nélisse, & Nip/Tuck's Dylan Walsh.

Tierney began developing an adaptation of Reid's novels in 2023, with the series' development officially announced in January 2025. 

In April 2025, Williams and Storrie joined the cast under three-season contracts. 

Filming took place in Ontario and Quebec from April to June 2025, so hopefully season two will start production ASAP!

As the series was renewed for a second season earlier this month. No doubt it will get a third too! The series received critical acclaim, with praise for the directing, writing, and the lead actors' performances and chemistry. 

Heated Rivalry also achieved strong audience viewership, becoming Crave's most-watched original series to date and HBO Max's top debut for an acquired, non-animated title since the platform's launch in 2019.

The horny drama, has been described by media outlets as a global sensation and a break-out critical hit. So how'd it end over Boxing Day? Spoiler below, be warned! I was hooked on this series. I was late to the party, but smashed all six episodes, almost back-to-back!

In the finale, The Cottage, Kip and his friends watch Scott on TV accepting the Most Valuable Player award, where he discusses his coming out. 

Shane picks Ilya up from the airport and they head to Shane's cottage. Ilya is startled by a loon call, mistaking it for a wolf howl. 

After Shane opens up about his parents, Ilya tells Shane his mother committed suicide when he was 12 and that he was the one who found her body. The following evening, Ilya suggests marrying Svetlana to obtain American citizenship. 

When Shane asks him why he doesn't marry someone he'd truly love, Ilya admits he only cares about Shane. That night, Shane outlines a plan to start a suicide prevention charity together and an effort to transform their rivalry into a public friendship, while also having Ilya sign with a Canadian team in order to be closer to Shane. 

Ilya finally tells Shane he loves him, which Shane returns. 

The next day, they are kissing outside when they notice Shane's dad in the house, who hurriedly leaves. They go to Shane's parents' cottage, where they tell Shane's parents everything. While they suspected Shane might be gay, they're surprised by his involvement with Ilya. 

In private, Shane's mom tearfully apologises for making him feel that he couldn't be honest with her. Over dinner, Ilya calls himself Shane's boyfriend for the first time. With Shane's parents aware of their relationship, Shane and Ilya return to Shane's cottage.

So romantic, but will season two be more dramatic? I smell drama incoming! Bring on season two. Come on Canada, let's go! Never has there been such a horny gay series, since Queer as Folk, the US version.

Almost time for my new streaming series, Scorchin' Summer Streamin' 26. One more film review incoming too. Anaconda, hopefully Monday/Tuesday.

SEEYA!

Film Influencer 2025 - The Housemaid

The Housemaid arrived just after I posted my end of year film wrap early.

That said this film co-produced/directed by Paul Feig is pure holiday fun. Really what the world needs right now.

Based on the 2022 novel of the same name by Freida McFadden, the film stars Sydney Sweeney, Amanda Seyfried, Brandon Sklenar, Michele Morrone, & Elizabeth Perkins. 

The story follows a young woman with a troubled past (Sweeney) who becomes the live-in housekeeper for a wealthy family, the Winchesters’ (Seyfried & Sklenar). Their seemingly perfect life unravels when she discovers their household hides dark secrets.

Thus far, the film has received positive reviews from critics, who praised Feig's direction and the performances of the cast (particularly Seyfried), as well as the film's plot twists and sense of fun.

Throughout the film, audiences into a twisted world where perfection is an illusion, and nothing is as it seems. 

Behind the Winchesters’ closed doors lies a world of shocking twists that will leave you guessing until the very end.

Honestly we haven't had a trashy thriller all year long really.

This was a lot of fun.

Not sure whether it would land on any of my end of year categories, best of. But it was, in a way one of the best films I've seen this year.

I don't often want to see a film again, however this was one of those films, I'd happily see again.

The Housemaid should stand out from some of the holiday shit currently on at local cinemas. Also this sure beats the hell our of watching the Ashes or the Sydney to fucking Hobart. YAWN!

I'd really give this a solid 4 stars.

Until next time folks!

Scorchin' Summer Streamin' 25 - The Last of Us - Season Two

I have had a major HBO season of catch-ups this week (and last) completing, I Love LA, IT: Welcome to Derry, The Chair Company and now second season of post-apocalyptic hit series The Last of Us.

Originally streaming between April & May, however I had just returned from holidays and backed up! Like I would be after a long haul flight.

So again based on the video game franchise developed by Naughty Dog, the season is set twenty-five years into a pandemic caused by a mass fungal infection, which causes its hosts to transform into zombie-like creatures and collapses society. 

The second season, based on the first half of the 2020 game The Last of Us Part II, follows Joel (Pedro Pascal) and Ellie (Bella Ramsey) five years after the events of the first season, after they have settled into Jackson, Wyoming, with Joel's brother Tommy (Gabriel Luna) and Ellie's friends Dina (Isabela Merced) and Jesse (Young Mazino).

HBO renewed The Last of Us for a second season less than two weeks after the series premiered in January 2023. 

Critics felt the season reinforced The Last of Us as the best video game adaptation, praising the action sequences, direction, performances, production design, and writing, though some criticised the pacing and considered the story to be incomplete. 

The season was nominated for several awards, including 17 Primetime Emmy Awards. 

The series averaged almost 37 million global viewers per episode. HUGE. The Last of Us could be HBO's biggest series right now. Apparently season three will land in 2027.

Part of the third season, will be the group travelling to Seattle to track down Abby (Kaitlyn Dever), who is set to be the focus of the third season.

So how did season two end you ask? Don't read on, like me if you are behind AF. This is the time of the year though to catch up right! Like I am doing now on the horny Canadian series Heated Rivalry also streaming in Australia on HBO.

Ellie regroups with Dina and Jesse, shaken by her own brutality against Nora. She shares a clue from Nora about Abby's location, then divulges the story of Joel's massacre. 

Dina suggests they return home. Jesse and Ellie search for Tommy, but Ellie deduces that Abby is hiding in an aquarium and leaves to pursue her. Ellie is captured and nearly executed by the Seraphites, but escapes to the aquarium to find Owen and Mel. 

She holds them at gunpoint and demands Abby's location. When Owen grabs a gun, Ellie fatally shoots him and the bullet strikes Mel, who reveals that she is pregnant; she asks Ellie to save the baby via a caesarean, to no avail. Jesse and Tommy recover a devastated Ellie and bring her back to the theatre. 

Later, Abby ambushes them, killing Jesse, injuring Tommy, and holding Ellie at gunpoint. A gunshot rings out. Three days earlier, Manny wakes up Abby, having both been summoned by Isaac.

This season was awesome, heartbreaking and action packed! Bring on the third season which is meant to be longer! Also a fourth season is expected, which is no surprise with the numbers it's pulling. Impressive!

Till next time, happy holidays!

Scorchin' Summer Streamin' 25 - I Love LA - Season One

I Love LA is a new comedy, created, written by, & starring Rachel Sennott streaming on HBO. 

Alongside Sennott, Odessa A'zion, True Whitaker, Jordan Firstman, & Josh Hutcherson star in this Girls for 2025 kinda series. The eight episode run started last month, while also getting renewed the same month.

Like all HBO series, there is bad language, sex and 2025 issues tackled head on. With limited comedies streaming on HBO of late, is this different to the Chair Company? Hell year, this one follows, a codependent friend group reunites, navigating how the time apart, ambition, and new relationships have changed them.

The season boots off with Maia's 27th birthday, she approaches her boss, Alyssa, for a promotion. Alyssa is hesitant, citing Maia's lack of experience in a managerial role. 

Before their conversation is interrupted by a phone call, Maia describes her relationship with Tallulah, now an estranged friend living in New York City, as a time when she had a talent manager role. 

Later, Maia arrives home to find that Tallulah has come to Los Angeles, as arranged by their friend Alani. Their reunion is awkward, and Maia says her request for promotion was successful. 

At Maia's birthday party, the pair reveal they have both been lying about their successes, and decide that Tallulah will move to Los Angeles and live with Maia as a client.

The season goes full circle in the finale with the crew going to New York as Maia and Dylan's relationship hits rocky ground.

I will be interested to hear where this HBO takes us in season two. Likely we will have to wait till 2027, as HBO have a stacked line up with a load of new series incoming! Along with series like Euphoria and Industry, some which have been MIA longer than others.

Welcome to the TV world of content overload, where you wait years now for your favourite show to return!

Until next time, it's Christmas Eve. Yawn.

Scorchin' Summer Streamin' 25 - This City Is Ours - Season One

This City Is Ours centres around Liverpudlian crime boss Ronnie Phelan, whose desire to retire from criminal life, after one last major drug deal, triggers an intense power struggle between his long-time right-hand man, Michael Kavanagh, and Phelan's impetuous son Jamie.

Streaming in Stan, originating from BBC One, set in Liverpool (UK), this is yet another drug/crime family series gone wild.

Less violent and action packed than Gangs of London and the USA's Power franchise. However it still packs an honest UK punch.

Starring Sean Bean as Ronnie Phelan, leader of the gang, alongside James Nelson-Joyce, Hannah Onslow, Jack McMullen, Julie Graham, Laura Aikman, Saoirse-Monica Jackson and Darci Shaw.

Back in May, the series was renewed for a second run.

Filming locations including Liverpool & Spain with filming taking place last May. Season two seems to be on the way, with filming commencing in October.

As we head into the summer break, it's time for me to catch up on 2025 series like this one. Concluding back in May, my Stan backlog is not too bad.

A bit more about the show and the real lead, James Nelson-Joyce.

Michael’s (Nelson-Joyce) life in organised crime is about to change. With the boss hinting at retirement and rivals vying for control, he must navigate the chaos to protect the woman he loves and the child he’s always wanted.

So if you like gang/crime family series, this one could be your new summer catch-up. It's no MobLand. But over the eight episodes it got better.

With a much more easy to follow character count than a Power series, at least the character development in this series was an improvement in this crime genre.

Stay cool today. The heatwave is here to stay by the looks of things. Real Scorchin' Summer Streamin weather!

Scorchin' Summer Streamin' 25 - The Chair Company - Season One

The Chair Company is one of HBO's wildest shows to stream/air! Created by Tim Robinson & Zach Kanin, it follows Ron Trosper (Robinson), a man whose embarrassing workplace incident involving a faulty chair leads him to investigate a far-reaching conspiracy involving the chair company. 

Alongside Robinson, Lake Bell, Sophia Lillis, Will Price & Joseph Tudisco also star.

The Chair Company received widespread acclaim from critics with some calling it one of the best shows of the year.

Reviewers praised its inventive blend of cringe comedy and surreal mystery, singling out Robinson's performance and the show's offbeat tone, a style some noted may not appeal to all audiences. The series premiered to 1.4 million viewers across HBO platforms, the network's biggest comedy debut in over five years and one of the top three HBO Max comedy launches in the platform's history.

Last month, alongside I Love LA, the series was renewed for a second season.

But what did I think? Look it was addictive, however it was as crazy AF!

HBO for a while left its 30 minute comedies to the HBO Max service, with iconic comedies like Veep, Silicon Valley and Somebody Somewhere concluding with no real replacements.

Even the wildly comedic And Just Like That streamed on HBO Max.

So how did season one conclude, while leaving it open for a second run, read on. If you were late to the party, like me, don't read on!

A young boy fatally shoots Hollywood producer Stacy Crystals with a 3D-printed gun, accusing him of ruining his father’s life. 

While Ron is suspended from work, he reconnects with his family.

In an HR meeting, Jeff feels humiliated by discussion of Ron overpowering him and invites Ron for drinks to smooth things over. 

Mike visits Ron and becomes angry when Ron says the investigation is over. Ron tries to help Mike reconnect with his daughter Lynette but is turned away. 

While chasing the family’s new dog, Ron discovers she has returned to her former owner’s house. At a karaoke bar with Jeff, Ron hears one of Jeff’s original songs and recognises the melody and voice from RBMG’s hold music. He rushes to Jeff’s office and finds a hidden compartment containing paperwork identifying Jeff and Stacy Crystals as the real owners of RBMG. 

Back home, Lynette explains that her biological father died and donated his heart to Mike, and that Mike’s obsessive behaviour after being invited to walk her down the aisle led to a restraining order. Ron then receives another call directing him to his high school gym, where the masked man from his security footage reveals that all recent events stem from a humiliating high-school incident involving Ron's colleague Amanda and claims she caused Ron’s chair collapse using telekinesis. 

The man says he is Amanda's boyfriend and attacks Ron.

So where will season two take us on this wild ride! With new HBO sitcoms DTF St. Louis and Rooster landing next year, I'd say we'll have to wait to 2027 to find out!

See you next time kids.

Best Movies of 2025 (Film Influencer 2025)

OK real talk (again), 2025 is the year of yet another Avatar film. So in saying that, I have no real interest in seeing many more films this year. So let's just go ahead and dive into my favourite films of 2025.

To be honest, this was a bit of a random year for films. Films about cats and global warming, Pamela Anderson, returning to acting and those Aussie Philippou brothers doing Australian cinema proud!

Nicole Kidman also did bad, bad things in Babygirl, whilst Wicked returned for its second act.

Kiwi film Tinā, blew me away. It was heartbreaking and beautiful all at once.

The Roses also excited me, but missed the list. The trailer gave me 5 star vibes, but seeing the full thing was a little less than a five star experience. 

Anyway, let's hope 2026 has some interesting films on offer. Supergirl could get superhero films back on track, whilst I reckon we might get our fair share of reboots, prequels and sequels. Until then, maybe I'll catch another film before we say goodbye to 2025 in coming weeks.

So what were my favourite films of 2025? Take a look at the list below.

BEST hyped film of 2025 - Sinners

BEST jump out of the seat film - Bring Her Back

BEST Teen drama/coming of age/comedy blah - Tinā (the students at Tinā's school)

BEST film of 2025 - Flow (Latvian: Straume)

BEST small (budget) film - The Last Showgirl (less than two million) 

BEST Aussie Movie - Bring Her Back

BEST Music(al) film - Wicked: For Good

BEST controversial film of 2025 - Babygirl

BEST Drama - Tinā 

Scorchin' Summer Streamin' 25 - It – Welcome to Derry - Season One (Chapter One)

It: Welcome to Derry is HBO's attempt horror TV based on Stephen King's 1986 novel It, whilst serving as a prequel to the films It (2017) and It Chapter Two (2019).

Starring Taylour Paige, Jovan Adepo, Chris Chalk, James Remar, Stephen Rider, Clara Stack, Amanda Christine, and Mikkal Karim-Fidler, with Bill Skarsgård reprising his role as Pennywise from the films and serving as an executive producer on the series.

Originally set to stream on HBO Max, the series moved to the parent station amidst all the HBO/Netflix, HBO/Paramount sales hype of late.

I wondered why HBO Max had cancelled or moved nearly all their titles excluding The Pitt and the final season of Hacks. Lanterns will also stream on HBO in place of being a HBO Max title.

The Penguin, Dune Prophecy and now finally It: Welcome to Derry have all become HBO originals. However while The Penguin was a miniseries, It: Welcome to Derry is planned for a three chapter run.

With chapter one just concluding. That said, this was the only HBO series not to get handed a renewal recently, when I Love LA and The Chair Company were handing second seasons.

But, the series received generally positive reviews from critics, so a second (chapter) season, could be announced this side of Christmas.

I was lucky enough to get to go to the first episodes screening over the bridge. FUN!

So how did it kick off in Cremorne's Hayden Orpheum?

In 1962, a couple with their son move to Derry, Maine just as a young boy disappears. With their arrival, bad things begin to happen in the town.

So if you are not up to date, do not read ahead. Here are some plot points from episode eight. Apparently too, the season was meant to run for nine episodes. Fun fact!

A dense fog descends on Derry as Pennywise kills the school principal and lures most of the children to the auditorium, where he hypnotises them and begins taking them away. 

Ronnie, Lilly, and Marge follow him, while Pennywise taunts Leroy about Will. Leroy seeks Hallorann's help, and with Rose's special tea, Hallorann silences the voices and tracks Lilly's dagger. Pennywise separates Marge, sensing her future son Richie Tozier will cause his death.

Hallorann freezes Pennywise long enough to free Will and the other children as the others arrive, but Shaw and the military intervene, killing Taniel and detaining the adults. Pennywise kills Shaw and pursues the children as they try to restore the "cage". 

The adults subdue the soldiers and shoot Pennywise, slowing him until Rich's spirit appears and helps complete the ritual, imprisoning Pennywise. After Rich's funeral, Hallorann and Hank leave Derry, Ronnie and Will share a kiss, Charlotte and a honourably discharged Leroy stay, and Ingrid is institutionalised. 

Twenty-six years later, Ingrid witnesses Elfrida Marsh's suicide and meets her daughter, Beverly.

So will we get chapter two? That's all up to HBO. However something tells me, the sale is more important for Warner Bros right about now.

Til next time!

Scorchin' Summer Streamin' 25 - Hotel Costiera - Season One/Series Finale

Hotel Costiera is an English-language with a touch of Italian in this (now) one and done Amazon series.

Not as wild and fun as Malice in Greece, this Italian series tries to be an action/drama even a comedy at times.

Starring hunky Grey's Anatomy hunk, Jesse Williams as Daniel "DD" De Luca, a fixer at a luxury hotel on the Amalfi Coast. 

I missed this when it was originally released in late September, but recently, the series was canceled after one season. It isn't Amazon's normal teeny bopper romance or even macho action series, the show lies in no man's land. Not as twisted as The Girlfriend, whilst not as addictive and full on as Malice.

The Amalfi Coast does look incredible though. As does Daniel De Luca, a former Marine, returns to Italy to work at a luxury hotel in Positano. Shortly thereafter, the owner's daughter disappears, and De Luca is tasked with finding her.

So if like me, your 2025 has been full on, you need an escape, maybe this is your next binge.

Also it's the week of the hit series Fallout returning to the streamer with a solid 2026 outlook. Deadloch, Cross, The Boys, Nicole Kidman in Scarpetta, with Reacher and it's spin-off on also on the way TBC too.

Until next time dear readers. 

Scorchin' Summer Streamin' 25 - Loot - Season Three

In Loot, Molly Wells (Maya Rudolph) embarks on a journey of self-discovery after getting an $87 billion divorce settlement from her wealthy tech billionaire husband John Novak (Adam Scott) of 20 years, and we find her thriving in her role as the head of her philanthropic organisation, the Wells Foundation. 

Molly has landed the jet for season three, with viewers left on the edge of their seats following the season two finale that saw Wells and her trusted and somewhat assistant Nicholas (Joel Kim Booster) board Molly’s private jet with her orders to take her as far away as possible after blowback from her fellow billionaires about stepping up philanthropy and her awkward exchange with her will-they, won’t-they colleague Arthur (Nat Faxon).

This season will also continue to follow the antics of the beloved group of misfits at the Wells Foundation as they work together so Molly can live up to her promise of giving away all of her vast fortune. Alongside Rudolph, Faxon & Kim Booster, the returning ensemble cast includes Michaela Jaé Rodriguez & Ron Funches.

The third season begun mid-October. I am praying daily for news on a fourth season. With that cliffhanger! Right! No spoilers though. 

Season three continued the fun, with some of the funniest moments of the series thus far.

Season three kicks off with Molly, after passing out from being given an unknown substance, wakes up surrounded by wreckage on the shore of what appears to be a deserted island with Nicholas, who informs her that her plane crashed. 

However, Nicholas has staged the crash, and they are actually on the island of "St. Novak's", with the staff of a nearby mansion working to keep up the ruse so Molly can enjoy a mental health reset. 

Sofia, Howard, and Rhonda arrive and force Nicholas to confess the truth to Molly, who at first refuses to leave the island due to seeing Arthur with Willa. She is then motivated to return home, but the only way off the island is via a ferry owned by Gerald Canning, the leader of "Vagine", a senior citizen nudist colony. 

While Rhonda embraces the nudist lifestyle, the others reluctantly participate in various activities without their shoes to persuade Gerald to let them use his ferry. As they are about to leave, Arthur, having traveled to every island Molly owns, arrives by rowboat and admits that he dumped Willa and loves Molly, with whom he shares a kiss. 

Molly allows Rhonda to stay with the nudists while the rest of the group sails home.

This is just a taste of how random season three was. It was brilliant! Apple TV better renew this. I have hope given they recently renewed Platonic, following its conclusion back in October.

Until next time!

Film Influencer 2025 - Wicked: For Good (Wicked: Part Two)

Wicked: For Good, the sequel to Wicked (2024), it adapts the second act of the 2003 stage musical by Stephen Schwartz and Holzman, which was loosely based on Gregory Maguire's 1995 novel, a reimagining of L. Frank Baum's 1900 novel The Wonderful Wizard of Oz and its 1939 film adaptation.

Last year’s global cinematic cultural sensation, which became the most successful Broadway film adaptation of all time, now reaches its epic, electrifying, emotional conclusion in Wicked: For Good. 

Starring returning cast, led by Academy Award® nominated superstars Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, as Elphaba and Glinda estranged and living with the consequences of their choices. 

Elphaba (Erivo), now demonised as The Wicked Witch of the West, lives in exile, hidden within the Ozian forest while continuing her fight for the freedom of Oz’s silenced Animals and desperately trying to expose the truth she knows about The Wizard (Jeff Goldblum).  

Glinda, meanwhile, has become the glamorous symbol of Goodness for all of Oz, living at the palace in Emerald City and reviling in the perks of fame and popularity. Under the instruction of Madame Morrible (Michelle Yeoh), Glinda is deployed to serve as an effervescent comfort to Oz, reassuring the masses that all is well under the rule of The Wizard.  

As Glinda’s stardom expands and she prepares to marry Prince Fiyero (Jonathan Bailey) in a spectacular Ozian wedding, she is haunted by her separation from Elphaba. She attempts to broker a conciliation between Elphaba and The Wizard, but those efforts will fail, driving Elphaba and Glinda only further apart. 

The aftershocks will transform Boq (Ethan Slater) and Fiyero forever, and threaten the safety of Elphaba’s sister, Nessarose (Marissa Bode), when a girl from Kansas comes crashing into all their lives. 

As an angry mob rises against the Wicked Witch, Glinda and Elphaba will need to come together one final time. With their singular friendship now the fulcrum of their futures, they will need to truly see each other, with honesty and empathy, if they are to change themselves, and all of Oz, for good. 

So if you have seen the musical when it has toured Australia once or twice, you'd know the story. However, visually, this was spectacular. Way beyond what you see at the stage show.

Wicked: For Good premiered in São Paulo last month.

Since then, the film received mixed reviews from critics, while grossing $448 million worldwide on a $150 million budget, becoming the second-highest-grossing Oz film and second-highest-grossing musical film adaptation. 

I am not a huge fan of musicals on the big screen, however the songs of Wicked are iconic, the witches, iconic, Ariana, beyond iconic!

I enjoyed this 3 stars for a Friday night at the movies. It also wasn't my first musical experience of the week. I did see the opposite, Pretty Woman going from film to stage. It was pretty average.

So in summary, Wicked stage to screen, good witches, Pretty Woman film to stage, not so wicked.

Later!

Scorchin' Summer Streamin' 25 - All's Fair - Season One

All's Fair has been one of the most talked about shows in months! The season drew strong viewership & became the most-watched scripted Hulu show debut in three years, with Variety describing it as a "camp classic".

Last month, the series was renewed for a second season. Despite a shocking Rotten Tomatoes score.

The legal drama is created by Ryan Murphy, starring Kim Kardashian, Naomi Watts, Niecy Nash-Betts, Teyana Taylor, Matthew Noszka, Sarah Paulson, & Glenn Close. What a cast. Despite, being panned by critics, who criticised the writing and Kardashian's performance. Paulson absolutely shines as Carr.

Not to mention all the guest stars per divorce. Far and wide actors, singers and more join the all female lead series. Not to mention Matthew Noszka! What a babe!

But what is All's Fair all about?

A team of female divorce attorneys leave a male-dominated firm to open their own powerhouse practice. Fierce, brilliant, and emotionally complicated, they navigate high-stakes breakups, scandalous secrets, and shifting allegiances—both in the courtroom and within their own ranks. 

In a world where money talks and love is a battleground, these women don’t just play the game—they change it.

The fashion, the vile insults from Sarah Paulson, this is wild! Definitely not something you'd expect on Disney+ lol

Despite the critics, I enjoyed this nine episode run. Unlike American Horror Story, this actually was unhinged and consistent from episode one. It didn't start strong and end weak. It was just delicious trash from the first scene.

I highly recommend this. It is nowhere near as bad as what the critics are saying. Give it a holiday season crack. Tonight, I'm finally off to Wicked!

Golden Globes TV 2026 Nominations | Predictions

Its clearly awards season! My predictions in bold and red. But you know this already if you are a regular reader.

Winners will be announced Sunday, January 11 (USA) hosted by Nikki Glaser. Aussies Jacob Elordi, Sarah Snook, Rose Byrne, Joel Edgerton and Nick Cave are all nominated for 83rd Globes.

BEST TELEVISION SERIES – DRAMA

The Diplomat (Netflix)

The Pitt (HBO)

Pluribus (Apple TV)

Severance (Apple TV)

Slow Horses (Apple TV)

White Lotus (HBO)

BEST TELEVISION SERIES – MUSICAL OR COMEDY

Abbott Elementary (ABC)

The Bear (FX)

Hacks (Stan)

Nobody Wants This (Netflix)

Only Murders in the Building (Hulu)

The Studio (Apple TV)

BEST TELEVISION LIMITED SERIES, ANTHOLOGY SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION

Adolescence (Netflix)

All Her Fault (Peacock/Binge)

The Beast in Me

Black Mirror (Netflix)

Dying for Sex (Disney+)

The Girlfriend (Prime Video)

BEST PERFORMANCE BY A FEMALE ACTOR IN A TELEVISION SERIES – DRAMA

Kathy Bates, Matlock (CBS)

Britt Lower, Severance (Apple TV)

Helen Mirren, MobLand (Paramount+)

Bella Ramsey, The Last of Us (HBO)

Keri Russell, The Diplomat (Netflix)

Rhea Seehorn, Pluribus (Apple TV)

BEST PERFORMANCE BY A MALE ACTOR IN A TELEVISION SERIES – DRAMA

Sterling K. Brown, Paradise (Disney+)

Diego Luna, Andor (Disney+)

Gary Oldman, Slow Horses (Apple TV)

Mark Ruffalo, Task (HBO)

Adam Scott, Severance (Apple TV)

Noah Wyle, The Pitt (HBO Max)

BEST PERFORMANCE BY A FEMALE ACTOR IN A TELEVISION SERIES – MUSICAL OR COMEDY

Kristen Bell, Nobody Wants This (Netflix)

Ayo Edebiri, The Bear (FX)

Selena Gomez, Only Murders in the Building (Hulu)

Natasha Lyonne, Poker Face (Stan)

Jenna Ortega, Wednesday (Netflix)

Jean Smart, Hacks (HBO Max)

BEST PERFORMANCE BY A MALE ACTOR IN A TELEVISION SERIES – MUSICAL OR COMEDY

Adam Brody, Nobody Wants This (Netflix)

Steve Martin, Only Murders in the Building (Hulu)

Glen Powell, Chad Powers (Hulu)

Seth Rogen, The Studio (Apple TV)

Martin Short, Only Murders in the Building (Hulu)

Jeremy Allen White, The Bear (FX)

BEST PERFORMANCE BY A FEMALE ACTOR IN A LIMITED SERIES, ANTHOLOGY SERIES, OR A MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION

Claire Danes, The Beast in Me (Netflix)

Rashida Jones, Black Mirror (Netflix)

Amanda Seyfried, Long Bright River (Binge)

Sarah Snook, All Her Fault (Peacock)

Michelle Williams, Dying for Sex (FX)

Robin Wright, The Girlfriend (Prime Video)

BEST PERFORMANCE BY A MALE ACTOR IN A LIMITED SERIES, ANTHOLOGY SERIES, OR A MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION

Jacob Elordi, The Narrow Road to the Deep North (Prime Video)

Paul Giamatti, Black Mirror (Netflix)

Stephen Graham, Adolescence (Netflix)

Charlie Hunnam, Monster: The Ed Gein Story (Netflix)

Jude Law, Black Rabbit (Netflix)

Matthew Rhys, The Beast in Me (Netflix)

BEST PERFORMANCE BY A FEMALE ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE ON TELEVISION

Carrie Coon, The White Lotus (HBO)

Erin Doherty, Adolescence (Netflix)

Hannah Einbinder, Hacks (HBO Max)

Catherine O’Hara, The Studio (Apple TV)

Parker Posey, The White Lotus (HBO)

Aimee Lou Wood, The White Lotus (HBO)

BEST PERFORMANCE BY A MALE ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE ON TELEVISION

Owen Cooper, Adolescence (Netflix)

Billy Crudup, The Morning Show (Apple TV)

Walton Goggins, The White Lotus (HBO)

Jason Isaacs, The White Lotus (HBO)

Tramell Tillman, Severance (Apple TV)

Ashley Walters, Adolescence (Netflix)

BEST PERFORMANCE IN STAND-UP COMEDY ON TELEVISION

Bill Maher: Is Anyone Else Seeing This?

Brett Goldstein: The Second Best Night of Your Life

Kevin Hart: Acting My Age

Kumail Nanjiani: Night Thoughts

Ricky Gervais: Mortality

Sarah Silverman: Postmortem

Scorchin' Summer Streamin' 25 - Bel-Air - Season Four/Series Finale

It's season finale time for Peacock’s Bel-Air. Streaming on Stan in Australia, the three week episode drop concluded yesterday. With a three episode final binge yesterday, I have now concluded the series.

In season four, Will tries to balance the fun and excitement of senior year with the expectations that have brought him to this moment. 

Carlton tests his own resolve as he deals with the fallout of some very big decisions that could threaten his future. Together, both boys will help each other through this pivotal time in their lives. 

An unexpected power shift will threaten the brotherhood between Phil and Geoffrey, whose loyalties to the Banks family will be tested. Viv struggles with reinventing herself as she looks at motherhood from a different perspective. 

Its Ashley’s freshman year in high school and she’s working through a rebellious phase but quickly learns that the status quo may no longer serve her. Hilary goes on a journey of self-exploration.

Bel-Air was the reimagined version of the sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and is based on Cooper's short fan film of the same title. 

Starring Jabari Banks, Adrian Holmes, Cassandra Freeman, Olly Sholotan, Coco Jones, Akira Akbar, Jimmy Akingbola, Jordan L. Jones, & Simone Joy Jones. 

I caught up on the first three seasons back-to-back, so watching the final eight episodes was a breeze.

It felt like a good time to end this teen-pre Uni drama. Also expect a surprise cameo.

Not as amazing as Peacock's The Day of the Jackal, however I do look forward to The Copenhagen Test landing later this month.

For now, I'm halfway through the All's Fair finale. Wow!

Scorchin' Summer Streamin' 25 - The Day of the Jackal - Season One

The Day of the Jackal is a British spy thriller television series, based on the Frederick Forsyth novel and 1973 film of the same name. 

Starring Eddie Redmayne & Lashana Lynch. 

I am very late to the party, with, the first series began airing in November 2024. That same month, it was renewed for a second series. Bring it on I say! Binge needs more content, ASAP! This however, is one of the best things for Peacock (USA) to have ever streamed. Maybe because it's partnered with Sky (UK Atlantic) 

The Day of the Jackal received positive reviews from critics and received two Golden Globe Award nominations, Best Television Series – Drama and Best Actor for Redmayne.

Reimagined into a contemporary political setting, this series is based on a popular novel which centres on a ruthless British assassin, known only as “the Jackal", and the intelligence officer intent on capturing him.

The Jackal, (Redmayne) makes his living carrying out hits for the highest fee. But following his latest kill, he meets his match in a tenacious British intelligence officer (Lynch) who starts to track down the Jackal in a thrilling cat-and-mouse chase across Europe, leaving destruction in its wake.

Filmed in multiple locations, this was perfect, addictive escapism. Read on for how episode ten went down, or if you are like me (late to the party), get on Binge now! Ten episodes, easy watch! Do it now!

River's release is postponed indefinitely. Bianca quits MI6, as Kirby refuses to keep pursuing the Jackal. 

Kirby is revealed to be acting under orders from Whitelock, together secretly working for Winthrop. Kirby lures Bianca with an unsanctioned operation to kill the Jackal. 

Bianca accepts the job, recruiting Vincent. They follow a lead to stake out the Jackal's Spanish estate, which Nuria eventually abandons with Carlitos. While attempting to leave Croatia, the Jackal sustains wounds and ultimately kidnaps an elderly couple. 

He kills them when they attempt to overpower him. He eventually returns home. Bianca and Vincent infiltrate the house, but a drunken Alvaro startles them and gets himself shot and killed, alerting the Jackal. 

The Jackal then kills Vincent and leads Bianca on a chase through his house. Tricking her into believing that she could win, he allows her to monologue about her personal achievements before shooting her in the neck and killing her. 

Fleeing the house, the Jackal is ambushed by Winthrop's men. Kirby is later promoted to Chief. She claims that Bianca and Vincent went rogue, but Halcrow knows the truth thanks to a final text message from Bianca. 

In Budapest, the Jackal meets with Zina, who also escaped an attempt on her life. She reveals Winthrop's identity as her employer. The Jackal agrees to exact revenge but heads off in search of Nuria and Carlitos first.

This was a quality thriller. Binge, you did good getting this Peacock title. Here is hoping I don't have to wait too long for season two. It's just on around a year the season one finale aired.

Film Influencer 2025 - Now You See Me: Now You Don't

I have been missing the movies after a week or so off, so with a Sydney Summer heatwave, what better place to be than the cinema. After a ten year break, Now You See Me: Now You Don't, is the third instalment in the Now You See Me film series.

Following 2016's Now You See Me 2, returning cast Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, Dave Franco, Isla Fisher, Lizzy Caplan, & Morgan Freeman, are now joined by Justice Smith, Dominic Sessa, Ariana Greenblatt, & Rosamund Pike.

Rosamund Pike is outstanding as the sequels big bad, while another, sequel is in development for the film series.

So far receiving mixed reviews from critics, with many deeming it an improvement to its predecessors. What did I think? Watch the trailer and scroll down.

The tricks were fun, the new cast added a new generation of magicians/tricksters to the growing cast.

I must say, the film did leave you on a mini Mark Ruffalo based cliffhanger.

This was enjoyable, fun, put your feet up cinema. Good job team. When December gets crazy, it's also nice to see a fun, popcorn film where you can just let the worries of the world disappear for around two hours.

Until next time. A big TV week of finales. The critically destroyed, All's Fair wraps its first run. Whilst Loot and Bel-Air streams it's final three episodes, ever.

Now You See Me: Now You Don't, gets a solid 3 Stars.

AACTA Awards 2026 Nominations (TV and related nominees) | Predictions

Nominations have just been announced for the AACTA Awards 2026.

Fast facts - 

• AACTA Festival will run for 5 days from February 4 – 8th 2026.
• AACTA Awards Industry Gala: Wednesday 4 February 2026
• AACTA Awards will screen at 7.30pm AEDT, Friday 6 February on Channel 10.
• Apple Cider Vinegar has topped the TV nominations
• The Newsreader and The Narrow Road to the Deep North followed with 12 nominations and Mystery Road: Origin at 11 nominations
• Next were Mix Tape (8 nominations), The Survivors (6 nominations) and The Twelve: Cape Rock Killer (5 nominations)

Predictions bold and in red.

AACTA Award for Best Miniseries

• Apple Cider Vinegar – Samantha Strauss, Liz Watts, Louise Gough, Helen Gregory, Emile Sherman, Iain Canning – See-Saw Films / Picking scabs (Netflix)

• Invisible Boys – Nicholas Verso, Tania Chambers – Asphodel Films and Feisty Dame Productions (Stan)

• Mix Tape – Angie Fielder, Polly Staniford, Aoife O’Sullivan, Tristan Orpen Lynch – Aquarius Films and Subotica (in Ireland) (Binge, Foxtel)

• The Last Anniversary – Nicole Kidman, Per Saari, Steve Hutensky, Jodi Matterson, Samantha Strauss, John Polson – Made Up Stories, Fifth Season and Blossom Films (Binge, Foxtel)

• The Narrow Road to the Deep North – Jo Porter, Rachel Gardner, Shaun Grant, Justin Kurzel, Alexandra Taussig – Curio Pictures (Amazon Prime Video)

• The Survivors – Tony Ayres, Andrea Denholm, Cherie Nowlan, Andrew Walker – Tony Ayres Productions | Matchbox Pictures and Universal International Studios. (Netflix)

AACTA Award for Best Drama Series

• Bay of Fires – Marta Dusseldorp – Archipelago Productions and Fremantle Australia (ABC)

• Black Snow: Jack of Clubs – Rosemary Blight, Milly Olrog, Lucas Taylor, Ben Grant – Goalpost Pictures (Stan)

• Mystery Road Origin – Greer Simpkin, David Jowsey – Bunya Productions (ABC)

• The Family Next Door – Melinda Wearne, Dean O’Toole, David Ogilvy, Jenny O’Shea – Beyond Productions Pty Ltd (ABC)

• The Newsreader – Joanna Werner, Michael Lucas – Werner Film Productions (ABC)

• The Twelve: Cape Rock Killer – Hamish Lewis, Michael Brooks, Ally Henville, Ian Collie, Rob Gibson – Warner Bros. International Television Production Australia Pty Ltd and Easy Tiger Productions Pty Ltd (Binge, Foxtel)

AACTA Award for Best Narrative Comedy Series

• Austin – Joe Weatherstone, Catherine Nebauer – Northern Pictures (ABC)

• Bump – Dan Edwards, John Edwards, Claudia Karvan, Kelsey Munro – Roadshow Rough Diamond (Stan)

• Ghosts – Kylie Washington, Sophia Zachariou, Bree-Anne Sykes, Joshua Mapleston – BBC Studios Productions (Network Ten, Paramount+)

• Mother and Son – Jude Troy, Richard Finlayson, Matt Okine, Alexandra Cameron – Wooden Horse (ABC)

• Strife – Steve Hutensky, Katie Amos, Asher Keddie, Mia Freedman, Sarah Scheller, Lorelle Adamson – Made Up Stories and Fifth Season (Binge, Foxtel)

• Top End Bub – Rosemary Blight, Ben Grant, Miranda Tapsell, Joshua Tyler – Goalpost Pictures (Amazon Prime Video)

AACTA Award for Best Lead Actress in a Drama  

• Alycia Debnam-Carey – Apple Cider Vinegar

• Aisha Dee – Watching You

• Kaitlyn Dever – Apple Cider Vinegar

• Tuuli Narkle – Mystery Road Origin

• Teresa Palmer – Mix Tape

• Anna Torv – The Newsreader

AACTA Award for Best Lead Actor in a Drama

• Mark Coles Smith – Mystery Road Origin

• Jacob Elordi – The Narrow Road to the Deep North

• Travis Fimmel – Black Snow Jack of Clubs

• Sam Neill – The Twelve: Cape Rock Killer

• Hunter Page-Lochard – Reckless

• Sam Reid – The Newsreader

AACTA Award for Best Acting in a Comedy

• Claudia Karvan – Bump

• Asher Keddie – Strife

• Ben Miller – Austin

• Sally Phillips – Austin

• Angus Sampson – Bump

• Denise Scott – Mother and Son

• Miranda Tapsell – Top End Bub

• Michael Theo – Austin

AACTA Award for Best Documentary

• Ellis Park – Justin Kurzel (Dir.), Nick Batzias, Charlotte Wheaton – GoodThing Productions

• Journey Home, David Gulpilil – Maggie Miles (Dir.), Trisha Morton-Thomas (Dir.), Rachel Clements, Jida Gulpilil, Lloyd Garrawurra – Savage Films and Brindle Films

• Not Only Fred Dagg But Also John Clarke – Lorin Clarke (Dir.), Richard Keddie – THW Film Company & Lorin Clarke Productions

• Songs Inside – Shalom Almond (Dir.), Katrina Lucas – Songs Inside Pty Ltd

• Unbreakable – The Jelena Dokic Story – Ivan O’Mahoney (Dir.), Jessica Halloran (Dir.) – In Films

• Yurlu | Country – Yaara Bou Melhem (Dir.) – Illuminate Films

AACTA Award for Best Comedy Performer

• Hamish Blake – Lego Masters Australia: Grand Masters of the Galaxy

• Melanie Bracewell – The Cheap Seats

• Aaron Chen – Guy Montgomery’s Guy-Mont Spelling Bee

• Tom Gleeson – Hard Quiz

• Luke McGregor – Portrait Artist of the Year

• Guy Montgomery – Guy Montgomery’s Guy-Mont Spelling Bee

• Sam Pang – Sam Pang Tonight

• Julia Zemiro – Crime Night!

AACTA Award for Best Supporting Actress in a Drama

• Essie Davis – Apple Cider Vinegar

• Aisha Dee – Apple Cider Vinegar

• Michelle Lim Davidson – The Newsreader

• Robyn Malcolm – Mystery Road Origin

• Heather Mitchell – The Narrow Road to the Deep North

• Susie Porter – Apple Cider Vinegar

AACTA Award for Best Supporting Actor in a Drama

• Luke Carroll – Mystery Road Origin

• Mark Coles Smith – Apple Cider Vinegar

• Daniel Henshall – The Family Next Door

• Daniel Henshall – The Newsreader

• Matt Nable – Apple Cider Vinegar

• Ashley Zukerman – Apple Cider Vinegar

AACTA Award for Best Entertainment Program

• Dancing with the Stars – Peter Beck, Amanda Bainbridge, Deb Spinocchia, Kylie Washington – BBC Studios Productions Australia (Seven Network)

• Eurovision Song Contest 2025 Grand Final: Access All Areas – Paul Clarke, Emily Griggs, Angela Downing – Beyond Productions (SBS)

• I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here! Australia – Beth Hart, Alex Mavroidakis, Josie Steele, Clare Bath – ITV Studios Australia (Network Ten)

• Lego Masters Australia: Grand Masters of the Galaxy – David McDonald, Hamish Blake, Di Yang, AJ Johnson – Endemol Shine Australia (Nine Network)

• Portrait Artist of the Year – David McDonald, Kate Feely, Maria Handas – Endemol Shine Australia (ABC)

• That Blackfella Show – Rowdie Walden – ABC (ABC)

AACTA Award for Best Comedy Entertainment Program

• Guy Montgomery’s Guy-Mont Spelling Bee – Bronwynn Bakker, Cameron Bakker, Guy Montgomery, Greg Sitch – Kevin & Co and ABC (ABC)

• Hard Quiz – Chris Walker, Kevin Whyte, Tom Gleeson, John Tabbagh – Thinkative Television and ABC (ABC)

• Sam Pang Tonight – Sam Pang, John Origlasso – One Wolf Productions (Network Ten)

• Spicks and Specks – Rowdie Walden, Anthony Watt – ABC (ABC)

• Taskmaster Australia – Bronwynn Bakker, Cameron Bakker – Kevin & Co and Avalon (Paramount+)

• The Weekly with Charlie Pickering – Charlie Pickering, Chris Walker, Kevin Whyte, Frank Bruzzese – Thinkative Television and ABC (ABC)

AACTA Award for Best Children’s Program

• Do Not Watch This Show – Andy Lee, Greg Sitch – Lee Bones Productions (ABC)

• Hard Quiz Kids – Chris Walker, Kevin Whyte, Tom Gleeson, John Tabbagh – Thinkative Television and ABC (ABC)

• Play School: All Together – Bryson Hall, Lyndal Mebberson – Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC)

• Space Nova – Suzanne Ryan, Yasmin Jones – SLR Productions and Giggle Garage (ABC)

AACTA Award for Best Stand-Up Special

• Aunty Donna: The Magical Dead Cat – Jessica Galea, Georgia Mappin, Tom Downey

• Celia Pacquola: I’m As Surprised As You Are – Kevin Whyte, Celia Pacquola

• Claire Hooper: So Proud – Kyran Nicholson, Claire Hooper

• Geraldine Hickey: Don’t Tease Me About My Gloves – Kevin Whyte, Geraldine Hickey

• Melbourne International Comedy Festival – The Allstars Supershow – Rowdie Walden, Susan Provan

• Melbourne International Comedy Festival – The Gala – Rowdie Walden, Susan Provan

AACTA Award for Best Factual Entertainment Program

• Alone Australia – Riima Daher, Joseph McMahon, Beth Hart, Keely Sonntag – ITV Studios Australia (SBS)

• Gogglebox Australia – David McDonald, Will Minchin, Natasha Pizzica – Endemol Shine Australia (Network Ten)

• Muster Dogs Collies and Kelpies – Michael Boughen, Matthew Street, Lauren Rudd – Ambience Entertainment Pty Ltd (ABC)

• Take 5 with Zan Rowe – Zan Rowe, Nikita Agzarian, Josh Schmidt – Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC)

• The Piano – Bethan Briegel-Jones, Gemma Murphy, Josie Mason Campbell – Eureka Productions (ABC)

• The Secret DNA of Us – Josie Mason Campbell, Sophie Meyrick – Eureka Productions (SBS)

AACTA Award for Best Documentary or Factual Program

• End Game with Tony Armstrong – Steve Bibb, Dan Brown – Barking Mad Productions, Smashing Films, Allstory Pictures and Barking Mad Productions, Smashing Films, Allstory Pictures (ABC)

• I Was Actually There – Loni Cooper, Josh Schmidt, Julie Hanna – Docker Media (ABC)

• The Assembly – Melissa Maclean, Mark Fennessy, Therese Hegarty, Julie Hanna – Helium Pictures (ABC)

• The Kimberley – Electra Manikakis, Nick Robinson, Peta Ayers, Mark Coles Smith – Wild Pacific Media (ABC)

• The People vs Robodebt – Paula Bycroft, Michael Cordell, Andrew Farrell – CJZ (SBS)

• Who Do You Think You Are? – Maxine Gray, Carolyn Kung – Warner Bros. International Television Production Australia Pty Ltd (SBS)

AACTA Award for Best Lifestyle Program

• Gardening Australia – Gill Lomas – ABC (ABC)

• Grand Designs Australia – Brooke Bayvel, Michael Collett – Eureka Productions (ABC)

• Love it or List it Australia – Karen Warner, Geoff Fitzpatrick, John Luscombe, Howard Myers-Rifai – Beyond Productions (Binge, Foxtel)

• Restoration Australia – Brooke Bayvel, Michael Collett – Eureka Productions (ABC)

• Selling Houses Australia – Caroline Swift, Kam Vurlow, Monique Bushby – Warner Bros. International Television Production Australia Pty Ltd (Binge, Foxtel)

• The Cook Up with Adam Liaw – Emily Griggs, Gavin Jarrett – SBS (SBS)

AACTA Award for Best Reality Program 

• Australian Idol – Joel McCormack, Riccy Felixberto, Wes Dening – Eureka Productions (Seven Network)

• Australian Survivor: Australia v The World – Amelia Fisk, David Forster, Phoebe McMahon, Toby Trappel – Endemol Shine Australia (Network Ten)

• Married At First Sight Australia – Tara McWilliams, Alexandra Spurway, Stevo Petkovic, Dimi Theodoulou – Endemol Shine Australia (Nine Network)

• MasterChef Australia – Marty Benson, Adam Fergusson, Eoin Maher, April Mackay – Endemol Shine Australia (Network Ten)

• The Amazing Race – Rikkie Proost, Alenka Henry, Jane Rowley – Eureka Productions (Network Ten)

• The Great Australian Bake Off – Emily Commens, Amanda Bainbridge, Deb Spinocchia, Kylie Washington – BBC Studios Productions Australia (Binge, Foxtel)

More info and categories can be found here.

Scorchin' Summer Streamin' 25 - Film Club - Season One

Best friends Evie and Noa have watched films together since they first met five years ago. But are they only there for the love of movies?⁣

This English romantic comedy-drama is from Aimee Lou Wood (The White Lotus) and Ralph Davis.

Commissioned by BBC Three, the series streams on Binge in Australia. Alongside Wood & Davis, Suranne Jones, Nabhaan Rizwan, Adam Long & Liv Hill star in this six part comedy.

Filming got underway in Manchester in late 2024, with the series landing on Binge around October.

We are now getting into the catch up TV era part of 2025.

Sports, repeats, non-ratings filler content, thank god for streaming.

Binge have struggled with filling the content void of HBO when they lost the contract mid this year.

Film Club isn't perfect, its quirky, a bit romantic, very English. Also, Aimee Lou Wood is super sweet as the lead.

OK so if you are in need of romance in the lead up to the holidays, Film Club is a bit of fun. Not sure if there is a chance of a season two. Watch this space...

Scorchin' Summer Streamin' 25 - Malice - Miniseries

Malice may be in the running for the most addictive series of Q4, Scorchin' Summer Streamin' for 2025.

This delicious revenge drama/thriller stars Adam (Jack Whitehall) is a charismatic tutor who charms his way into the life of the wealthy Tanner family while they’re on holiday in Greece.  

When the family’s nanny falls dangerously ill, Adam orchestrates his way in to their London home and his true vengeful nature begins to emerge.

Alongside Whitehall, X-Files and Californication legend, David Duchovny stars, with Carice van Houten, Christine Adams & Raza Jaffrey.

Malice streams now on Amazon with all six episodes either ending with a cliffhanger or a bang! I am fairly sure this is a miniseries with how episode six unfolds, however there is room for more Malice in Greece or the UK.

Amazon usually does either Superhero/anti-superhero/male action series well or teen dramas like The Summer I Turned Pretty. So it was refreshing to see Malice follow The Girlfriend, in the revenge/drama genre.

David Duchovny is delicious as this mega rich alpha father, who gives zero fucks about his family or businesses he invests in.

My mother and father were (like Reckless) hooked after episode one. So much so they stayed up later than me, night one of watching to conclude episode one.

To be fair, I was done and dusted binge watching this in around 36 hours.

Honestly, drop everything, stop watching Love Island and Big Brother, as this is so much more intense.

Really and truly in my upcoming RATED, this will be top 10, or even top 5 easy. Smashing!

Scorchin' Summer Streamin' 25 - Reckless - Miniseries

New SBS/NITV Original Reckless is a fast paced four-part series starring Tasma Walton (The Twelve, Mystery Road) & AACTA Award winner Hunter Page-Lochard (The Newsreader, Critical Incident).

All episodes stream now on SBS On Demand. Reckless is a deadly funny thriller straight out of Freo where guilt, family and dysfunction collide in a wickedly funny, high-stakes thrill ride. 

When feuding siblings June (Walton) and Charlie (Page-Lochard) cover up a deadly hit and run in their hometown of Fremantle, their lives spiral wildly out of control. As the lies pile up, so do the consequences and soon, everyone in town has something to lose.

Fast and fearless, Reckless, written by Kodie Bedford (Mystery Road, Return to Paradise) and Stuart Page (Total Control, Cleverman) is a uniquely Australian take on crime and chaos where small-town secrets, family feuds and guilt make for explosive TV.

I started this show a little while back on SBS On Demand with my parents. Aged 71 and 90. Both loved it. Me in my mid-40's means this little series that aims high, is a multi generational crowd pleaser.

I look forward to seeing how SBS's other new drama, The Chaplain turns our. As back in September, Reckless was named as one of two of SBS new upcoming dramas. So I was a little surprised Reckless landed this side of Christmas and 2025. You can view what SBS has in store for 2026, here.

Either way Reckless streams now, showing off the chill WA. The series moves fast across four action packed episodes.

Until next time!

Scorchin' Summer Streamin' 25 - Talamasca: The Secret Order - Season One

Stan has taken on the third of Anne Rice's Immortal Universe. Talamasca: The Secret Order from the shared universe based on Rice's novels, which started in 2022 with Interview with the Vampire. Which (along with Mayfair Witches) streams on ABC iView.

Talamasca: The Secret Order stars Nicholas Denton as Guy Anatole, William Fichtner as Jasper, Elizabeth McGovern as Helen, Maisie Richardson-Sellers as Olive, Céline Buckens as Doris & Jason Schwartzman guest starring as the "rakish vampire" Burton.

So it started its six episode first season strong, however the conclusion on Monday left me feeling a little flat. It just didn't have the same energy as Interview with the Vampire. It was more like a second rate spin-off series, similar to Mayfair Witches, which has always felt the less superior series of the Immortal Universe.

Stan has done well with summer content. Bel-Air commencing yesterday for a three week express final season. Power Book IV: Force is now in its final season with Spartacus: House of Ashur, the return of the Spartacus franchise early next month.

Back to Talamasca: The Secret Order, this is one of those shows I'd only recommend if you have caught up on everything else. Savage I know!

Until next time!

Scorchin' Summer Streamin' 25 - He Had It Coming - Season One

He Had It Coming ends on one hell of a cliffhanger! Just when I thought the latest Stan Original (released last Thursday) was heading into miniseries territory, episode eight dropped a bomb at the end of the episode!

He Had It Coming, starts after their feminist art project is co-opted by a killer, two college women must form an unlikely alliance and track down the culprit. 

Starring Liv Hewson, Lydia West, Natasha Lui Bordizzo, with Duncan Fellows, Roxie Mohebbi, Tom Dawson, Alex Champion de Crespigny, and Miah Madden.

This was a damn fine little local series filmed, possibly in Parramatta.

With great tunes and an underlying mystery the entire run, He Had It Coming was a refreshing return to quality drama on Stan, following the slightly disappointing Watching You.

With Sunny Nights and Dear Life to come, Stan has a fairly packed local summer schedule. Not to mention a Bump Christmas movie for good measure this Sunday.

Stan is the last remaining, all local streaming service down under.

Whilst they have been lazy announcing the future of Black Snow, Ten Pound Poms, Scrublands and Wolf Like Me. They still are churning out some damn fine content.

He Had It Coming felt fresh, fun and aimed at a younger audience. This to me was well done, quality, local content. Good job all. Great song selections too!

Scorchin' Summer Streamin' 25 - Tulsa King - Season Three

Tulsa King is another Taylor Sheridan series living on Paramount+. Lead by Sylvester Stallone as Dwight "The General" Manfredi, Martin Starr, Jay Will, Vincent Piazza, Garrett Hedlund, & Dana Delany. 

Annabella Sciorra, Frank Grillo, and Neal McDonough joined the second-season main cast, continuing through into the third. 

Paramount announced ahead of season three, a fourth season as well as a spin-off series called NOLA King which will star Samuel L. Jackson, have both been ordered. So in true spin-off style, Samuel L. Jackson joined for episode nine and ten of this season.

I expect NOLA King to land ahead of the fourth (and possibly final) season of the Stallone mother series. Wow without Taylor Sheridan, there would be like no content on Paramount+.

So how'd you think Samuel L. Jackson did? Does he deserve a New Orleans version of Tulsa King? Time will tell. So how'd the finale, Out of Adventure go down. Spoilers below.

Margaret and Dwight discuss Thresher's election prospects which have improved since the bombing incident. Thresher later invites Margaret to join his team permanently after the election.

Dwight then discovers Joanna is missing, before then receiving a ransom call from Dunmire. Dwight musters a crew and more weapons, but while doing so Cole goes to volunteer assistance, telling them where Joanne is being held.

The crew invades the Dunmire home, and rescues Joanne. Dunmire himself escapes and is pursued by Dwight, who catches him and burns him alive in retribution for Montague's death.

Musso meets Dwight and gives him the federal liquor licence in exchange for the information extracted from Deacon. Dwight refuses to disclose where Deacon's body is but assures Musso it will never be found.

This wasn't my favourite season of Tulsa King. I have to be honest, season one felt refreshing and new. However now in the third season, it's all a little rinse and repeat. That said Samuel L Jackson did add something to the final two episodes of the run.

Next up, Talamasca: The Secret Order wraps its first season, while USA network TV is all about to go on end of year breaks. Then in Australia it's the last week of TV ratings. Expect repeats, sport, lengthy pre-sporting game panels and Big Brother hanging around a little longer. Thank god for catch ups on streaming services.

Film Influencer 2025 - Bugonia

Bugonia is a film I've been wanting to see for weeks. With Wicked, other big blockbusters this film has been pushed to the undesirable session times for a bit now. However today all the stars alighed for me to see a lunchtime session of this black comedy English-language remake of the 2003 South Korean film Save the Green Planet! 

Bugonia follows two young men who kidnap a powerful CEO, suspecting that she is secretly an alien who wants to destroy Earth. With a small lead cast, it's lead by CEO energy Emma Stone, Jesse Plemons, Aidan Delbis, Stavros Halkias, and Alicia Silverstone.

Bugonia has received generally positive reviews, with critics praising the performances of Plemons and Stone.

What did I think of a Sunday film following a wedding and some live, local music? See below the trailer for my score.

So TV has been taking up a big part of my viewing schedule as we head into summer slack. Sydney generally dies all December/January, so hopefully I have some more time to catch up with some fine cinema over the holidays.

However for now, this Emma Stone lead oddball film was far more enjoyable than her recent random, Showtime series, The Curse. I will pass this as it gave a good commentary on the recent back and forth of net zero discussions from our so called leaders.

3 Stars. Is there any film or TV series the USA will not copy from our amazing Korean friends. I am just awaiting them to give Demon Hunters a go! lol

Scorchin' Summer Streamin' 25 - Return to Paradise - Season Two

Detective Sergeant Mackenzie Clarke (Anna Samson) should be back in the UK, living the life she always dreamed of.

But one confession changed everything. When her ex-fiancée Glenn admitted he might still love her, Mack couldn’t walk away.

Now she’s stuck in Dolphin Cove — torn between risking her heart and revealing what she overheard.

Luckily for Mack, there’s no shortage of distractions. Her obsession with cracking the toughest cases keeps her busy, and in Dolphin Cove, murder is never far away.

Yep, Return to Paradise landed again on ABC iview and ABC TV this time last week.

Since then I have stream all six new episodes of this Australian-British crime/comedy/drama series.

This is the second spin-off series of long-running crime series Death in Paradise. Alongside Samson, the local version of this series stars some local favourites. Andrea Demetriades, Tai Hara, Catherine McClements, Celia Ireland and cutie Aaron L. McGrath. UK star, Lloyd Griffith also stars as Detective Senior Constable Colin Cartwright.

Just in the first two episodes (episode two filmed at local Anita's Theatre airs tonight) the guest star list is damn impressive these season.

Danielle Cormack (Shortland Street, Wentworth Prison), Michelle Lim Davidson (The Newsreader, Utopia), Damian Walshe-Howling (Janet King, Last King of the Cross) all star in episode one. Whilst episode two is lead by You Am I's Tim Rogers, with Justine Clarke (Home and Away) and Zoe Carides (Death in Brunswick).

Sadly the ABC announced their 2026 programming on Thursday. No existing shows were renewed or cancelled. Just new ones announced. 

This was by far the most promising announcement of programming for 2026 from any of the free to air networks or even Binge/Foxtel.

Let's hope ABC and maybe the soon to be sued BBC brings this delightful mystery series back for a third. This is ABC winning formula through and through!

Scorchin' Summer Streamin' 25 - Murdaugh: Death in the Family - Miniseries

Murdaugh: Death in the Family is another true crime miniseries created by Michael D. Fuller and Erin Lee Carr for Hulu/Disney+.

Starring Aussie Jason Clarke as Alex Murdaugh, Patricia Arquette as Maggie Murdaugh, J. Smith-Cameron, Johnny Berchtold, & Brittany Snow. 

Based on the Murdaugh Murders Podcast by Mandy Matney, who investigated and blogged about the unfolding case of Alex Murdaugh, who was accused of the murders of his wife, Maggie, and their son, Paul, on June 7, 2021; she is played by Brittany Snow in the series. 

The series depicts the events leading up to the double murder. Which sometimes feels extremely bloated. If this was made in the UK, this would have straight up been four episodes. Instead the USA gave us eight, long, drawn out episodes.

That said the second half of the run is way better than the first four episodes.

So who are the Murdaugh's? I'd personally never heard this story. Maggie and Alex enjoy a lavish life of privilege as members of one of South Carolina's most powerful legal dynasties. But when their son Paul is involved in a deadly boat crash, the family is faced with a test unlike any they've ever encountered. 

As details come to light and new challenges emerge, the family's connections to several mysterious deaths raise questions which threaten everything Maggie and Alex hold dear. 

Hulu on Disney+ has had loads of quality content of late. They are streaming the most talked about series, All's Fair right now, Secret Lives of Mormon Wives is back, while me and the parents actually enjoyed the 2025 remake of the classic, The Hand That Rocks the Cradle.

So Hulu is punching above their weight right now on the Disney+ app. While this might not be the best title I've seen for a while, it was an interesting watch.

Hopefully over the weekend, I'll get of to see the final instalment in the Wicked film saga. Have a good weekend!

Scorchin' Summer Streamin' 25 - Morning Wars - Season Four

Morning Wars fourth season opens in spring 2024, almost two years after the events of Season 3. With the UBA-NBN merger complete, the newsroom must grapple with newfound responsibility, hidden motives and the elusive nature of truth in a polarised America. 

In a world rife with deepfakes, conspiracy theories and corporate cover-ups — who can you trust? 

And how can you know what’s actually real? Along with Witherspoon and Aniston, the star-studded ensemble cast includes Billy Crudup, Karen Pittman, Nicole Beharie, Nestor Carbonell, Mark Duplass, Greta Lee, Marion Cotillard, Jeremy Irons, Aaron Pierre, William Jackson Harper, Boyd Holbrook, and Jon Hamm.

Fans of the show will be happy to know, the series was renewed for a fifth season back in September, ahead of the premiere of the fourth season.

Spoilers below! Warning!

The November 19 finale, Knowing Violation finale was explosive. Here were some highlights of the last hour of season four. Bring on season five I say!

Having begun a sexual relationship with Celine, Cory offers to give the EPA report to the Dumont family if Celine helps negotiate Bradley's release. However, Cory contemplates his decision when Miles reveals that Martha brokered the Wolf River cover-up in exchange for getting Cory a job at UBA. 

Ben seeks Mia's help in investigating the person responsible for Alex's deepfake audio, and Mia discovers that Celine orchestrated the deepfake. Alex demands Celine's resignation, but Celine threatens to reveal Alex and Paul's negotiation with Dmitry. 

Faced with no choice, Alex announces her resignation live on TMS. Alex seeks advice from Martin, who suggests that she sue Celine for wrongful dismissal. Alex and Martin hold a press conference accusing UBN of corruption and announcing Alex's intentions to sue Celine; Ben defies Celine and runs the story on TMS. Outraged, Celine calls Cory and threatens to keep Bradley in prison unless Alex stops the conference. 

However, Cory broadcasts the phone call live during the conference, and it is revealed that Cory has given Alex the EPA report. Celine leaves the country, leaving the UBN board to find a new interim CEO. Bradley is released from prison and has an emotional reunion with Alex.

It was a wild ride of a final episode for the season. To be honest the whole season was wild. So as I said, bring on season five! Maybe that will be the last for the Apple TV long staying power drama!

Film Influencer 2025 - The Running Man

​In a near-future society, The Running Man is the top-rated show on television—a deadly competition where contestants, known as Runners, must survive 30 days while being hunted by professional assassins, with every move broadcast to a bloodthirsty public and each day bringing a greater cash reward. 

Desperate to save his sick daughter, working-class Ben Richards (Chad Power's, Glen Powell) is convinced by the show’s charming but ruthless producer, Dan Killian (Josh Brolin), to enter the game as a last resort. 

But Ben’s defiance, instincts, and grit turn him into an unexpected fan favourite—and a threat to the entire system. As ratings skyrocket, so does the danger, and Ben must outwit not just the Hunters, but a nation addicted to watching him fall.

Directed by Edgar Wright & written by Wright and Michael Bacall. 

This is the second adaptation of the 1982 novel by Stephen King, following the 1987 film. 

Alongside Powell & Brolin, William H. Macy, Lee Pace, Michael Cera, Emilia Jones, Daniel Ezra, Jayme Lawson, Sean Hayes & Colman Domingo all star in this action packed reality TV piss take.

With MKR and The Golden Bachie finishing the past week in Australia this is timely AF. Along with Big Brother making a fairly solid return to Network Ten.

The Running Man has received mixed reviews, though many critics considered it to be an improvement over the original 1982 film.

Look I needed a fun, popcorn, action, wham, bam, thank you maam midweek film. This hit the spot. The run time is a little long, the soundtrack could be more bangin', but overall this was solid.

Powell, is a hot star right now. Also that scene with him on the building roof just in a towel! Damn!

3 Stars.

Scorchin' Summer Streamin' 25 - RFDS - Season Three

Back in October 2023, RFDS was announced that the series would be renewed for a third season, which concluded with a double episode last Wednesday.

Now this show has been a ratings winners for the Seven Network. Drama at 7:30pm Wednesday nights worked.

Who would have thought?

Also with a lead in of popular soap, Home & Away, Seven brought drama TV back to primetime on Wednesdays.

Production commenced last August, with filming starting in South Australia, in Adelaide Studios as well as on location in the Flinders Ranges town of Quorn, the Port Augusta RFDS Base and regional surrounds, which will double for Broken Hill, as the real Broken Hill airport and RFDS base were being upgraded.

The third season finally premiered at the start of October. This followed on from season two wrapping October 2023. So it's generally a long time between drinks for this series.

Seven also left off RFDS at their upfront presentation for 2026. Sadly the only confirmed local drama for 2026, will be Home & Away.

This leaves Seven far behind Channels 9 & 10. Who though their respective streaming platforms Stan and Paramount+ are kicking Seven's ass in the output of local drama.

As Seven don't have a streaming platform (other than the ad heavy 7plus) there drama output is left to the primary and secondary channels.

Anyway aside from the poor station of local dramas on network TV, let's chat season three of RFDS below.

If you haven't watched the finale. you may not know the cliffhanger revolves around Emma Hamilton as Dr. Eliza Harrod, in Stephen Peacocke's as Nurse Pete Emerson arms.

Their on again off again, will they get back together is a key plot line in season three.

Rob Collins as Dr. Wayne Yates continues to shine, although he questions his upcoming wedding too to,Ash Ricardo as Mira Ortez.

While the gay character on the series, Jack Scott as Nurse Matty Harris has a love triangle with a bisexual cop, which Emma Harvie as Chaya Batra has also been shagging. Chaya also has many plot points, including a connection to the early on bus crash at the start of the season.

The bus crash and multiple incidents across the season begun to feel like an Aussie version of 9-1-1.

The third season also starred, Rodney Afif as Graham Morley, Sofia Nolan as Taylor Emerson, Thomas Weatherall as Darren Yates & Justine Clarke as Leonie Smith.

With the series getting from 707K to 849K viewers per episode, surely we will see this back in a few years.

With limited drama on free to air drama, it has to be acknowledged that SBS and ABC punch way above their weight with local content. Only last week delivering Reckless on SBS and Return to Paradise's second season last week.

Speaking of, I should have some reviews on those two series soon. Seeya!

Scorchin' Summer Streamin' 25 - All Her Fault - Miniseries

All Her Fault is the best thing to come outta Peacock in a hot minute! Given Poker Face just got the axe (looking for a new home, with a new lead though) and Bel Air will conclude in coming weeks.

This Big Little Lies style, mystery/thriller limited series stars Aussie Sarah Snook. It was also apparently filmed in Melbourne.

Based on the novel by Andrea Mara, all eight episodes landed on Binge, down under the other week. Thus far receiving generally positive reviews from critics, with particular praise towards Snook's performance.

And let's just say in Australia, Binge needed a hit!

Alongside Snook, The White Lotus season one star Jake Lacy also stars, with Sophia Lillis, Michael Peña, Dakota Fanning, Abby Elliott, Jay Ellis & Thomas Cocquerel.

A brief tale of what the miniseries is about below the trailer.

When Marissa Irvine (Snook) goes to pick up her young son Milo from his first playdate with a boy at his new school, the woman who answers the door has never seen or heard of either Marissa or her son, it's the beginning every parent's worst nightmare. 

As Marissa and her husband Peter begin a desperate search for their son, their family starts to come apart at the seams. With new friend Jenny Kaminski, the only person that Marissa can count on, the two women form a close and unlikely alliance. 

Together they hunt for Milo, uncovering deep family secrets that alter the course of both their lives forever. Charged with finding Milo and bringing the kidnappers to justice, Detective Alcaras unravels the complex and frightening web of deception and lies that has ensnared both the Irvine and Kaminski families, but his moral code is stretched to breaking point.

This was honestly addictive AF. It really gave Big Little Lies vibes being set in the windy city, Chicago.

I still need to watch, The Day of the Jackal, while I am excited for the return of Bel Air on Stan later this month.

Until next time, hopefully I'll catch a movie before The Morning Show wraps next week. Also I need to get into the double finale of RFDS this weekend. So much TV, so little time lol

Scorchin' Summer Streamin' 25 - Reasonable Doubt - Season Three

Reasonable Doubt has just concluded its third season. With Power's Joseph Sikora joining as Bill Sterling, new lawyer to Jax's firm.

Emayatzy Corinealdi continues as Jax, a corporate criminal defence lawyer navigating challenging high-profile cases. Along with McKinley Freeman, Tim Jo, Angela Grovey, Thaddeus J. Mixson, Aderinsola Olabode, and joining season three, Rumer Willis as Wendy.

Last week (ahead of the the finale) the series was renewed for a fourth season.

After a tumultuous season of fighting to save her best friend from a life sentence while healing from her own deadly affair, Jax Stewart has finally earned some peace in her life...even if she sees it all as a little boring. 

So, when a former child star finds himself in a heap of trouble, Jax seizes the opportunity to spice up her daily routine. But when her client's personal life turns out to have all the drama and danger of a Hollywood movie and Jax's own professional future comes under threat from a charismatic associate at her firm, can Jax clear her client's name without losing the personal and professional successes she's worked so hard for.

This season was hectic. On many levels. A child star (Kyle Bary as Ozzie), sexual abuse from a female to a younger male, family dramas, season three had it all.

Even a cliffhanger!

With Mariah Carey and Mary J Blige soundtracking the final few moments, the series felt like it was closing out for good. Then we get that one last scene.

Disney+ has given loads of quality dramas lately. Murdaugh: Death in the Family concludes next week after a slow first few episodes, while All's Fair is blowing up online!

I for one cannot wait for season four of Reasonable Doubt. Jax is a legend! The music used is incredible. McKinley Freeman gets hotter by the minute!

Hopefully over the weekend, I'll get through the double RFDS finale. Until then, bye-bye!