Category: TV Shows

Write Kind of Love Story: A BRIDGERTON Season 3 Appreciation Post

Published on by Kelly Deeny1 Comment

Entertainment news sites posted their BRIDGERTON season three recaps and reviews with much haste, but I needed time to process before putting pencil to paper. I suppose if I was keeping with the theme I’d have used a quill.

If you’ve read any of my previous film/TV/theatre “reviews” then you won’t be surprised by my glass-half-full style. I choose to celebrate the pieces of work that inspire my appreciation instead of picking them apart in search of faults. The shows (or films) I write about on this platform are ones that moved me enough to share my enthusiasm with others. Such is the case with the third season of Netflix and Shondaland’s jewel, BRIDGERTON.

Credit: Kelly Deeny – May 11 2024 at Bridgerton Promenade event in NY

Based on Julia Quinn’s eight-book historical romance series, BRIDGERTON follows the love stories of the beloved Bridgerton siblings: Anthony, Benedict, Colin, Daphne, Eloise, Francesca, Gregory, and Hyacinth. The first two TV seasons followed book one (Daphne’s story) and book two (Anthony’s), respectively, while season three chose to highlight Quinn’s fourth book in the series: Romancing Mr. Bridgerton. This love story follows Colin Bridgerton and Penelope Featherington, the couple nicknamed “Polin”, as these two beloved characters go from friends to lovers.

May 11, 2024 at the Bridgerton Promenade in New York

Fans of both the books and the TV series adore “Polin”, and the lead up to season three made evident the admiration. I was one of many who attended the online event on Valentine’s Day, went to New York for the Promenade, and took a day off work for the season’s debut. I championed “Polin’s” season for many reasons (see earlier post) before its entrance into society and do so even more at its finale. While society awaits news as to which B sibling will lead season four, it’s a fitting time to celebrate the artists in front of and behind the camera who made “Polin’s” season such a memorable one.

Decision Makers

When it’s time to promote a television series, those who grace the screen typically make the press rounds. However, no TV show would be possible without the producers, showrunners, writers, and directors – to list but a few of the creative artists behind the camera. They are tasked with making decisions that impact what viewers will ultimately see. Their names are many and yet special recognition must be given to Jess Brownell for taking on the carriage reins of season three as showrunner. She guided the series forward from the work of creator Chris Van Dusen’s first two seasons, and that is not a responsibility to be taken lightly. Bravo on a job well done, and I look forward to what’s to come.

Given that a novel and television series are two different mediums, changes are to be expected when translated from page to screen. This holds true for all three seasons of the series so far. However, BRIDGERTON’s behind-the-scenes team did an excellent job honoring key aspects of “Polin’s” love story from the novel while crafting TV that keeps you intrigued. By splitting the season into two parts, with a one-month gap in between, they built anticipation and garnered excitement for what was still to come.

Setting the Scene

We tend to expect period dramas to feature hair, makeup, costume, and production design at their finest. Sometimes they stand out so significantly that it detracts from the story, tone, or performances. That is not the situation with BRIDGERTON’s third season – just the opposite, in fact. The talented artists excel in the above fields because they blend fantasy, magic, and artistry. They accentuate the scene and the characters who inhabit the world without detracting from it.

Penelope’s journey this season originates from a desire to gain control over her own life. In doing so, her appearance changes to reflect a woman learning to love herself. The new hairstyles framed her face beautifully while the gowns flattered her figure instead of hiding it. The hair, makeup, and costume teams enhanced the beauty already there, thus letting Penelope’s beauty shimmer both inside and out.

Part of BRIDGERTON’S majestic tone stems from the talented artists behind the scenes. They are artists painting the canvas that the actors then get to bring to life. The costume design team weaved elegance, vivid color, and bold statements into each finished piece of attire while the creative hairstylists added an extra level of excellence with pieces that keep the viewers all abuzz (there were spinning swans)! Makeup artists tend to get overlooked unless they are completely changing an actor’s appearance; however, it is in the smallest of details that makeup artists thrive. The subtle, nuanced decisions like changing Nicola’s makeup to softer shades this season to reflect a more grownup Penelope, for example.

Last, but certainly not least, the production designers excel at blending the historical and fantasy elements of the BRIDGERTON world. The welcoming blue tones of the Bridgerton family drawing room, the vibrant colors in the Featherington home, or the closed-in design of the Cowper household are as alive as the characters who play within their walls.

Cast of Characters

This cast…they are exquisite! Whether they grace the screen for most of the season or mere moments, they leave an indelible mark on the BRIDGERTON world. In the third season, viewers were treated to expansive storylines featuring characters we’ve come to love (The Mondrichs, Featheringtons, Lady Danbury, and Genevieve) and those whose backstory makes it less easy to hate them (*cough* Cressida *cough*). The actors embody their characters in such a way that they are more than caricatures or Regency stereotypes. They are navigating this world, trying to figure out where they fit in (or even if they want to). I, for one, am excited for their journeys to continue in season four!

To Hate or Not to Hate

Cressida Cowper can be mean, petty, vindictive, and outright cruel – easy to label her as a “bully” and pay her little heed. However, thanks to brilliant writers, Cressida’s story expanded this season to explore the whys behind her actions. Special mention is due to the actor who portrays this former (and perhaps current) antagonist: Jessica Madsen. Madsen gave Cressida depth, revealed vulnerability, and unleashed spitefulness when needed. Thus, viewers could not easily cast her aside. I can’t wait to find out what she’s been up to when season four graces my screen!

FAMILY

Ah, siblings! They can be your best friend, worst enemy, or a combination of the two. It can be challenging to be seen and heard amongst siblings that stand out, and this season showcases just that. Colin and Penelope have very different sibling experiences, yet each are integral to their development as characters. The Bridgerton and Featherington siblings provide levity and lightedheartedness but also highlight the importance of navigating your own path. These pivotal relationships are such due to the immense talent of the cast, who portray characters searching for their own place in the world amid family dynamics that often pull you back in.

The Bridgerton siblings tease, interfere, nudge, and poke one another with love always at the heart of the matter. The cast make these interactions look effortless, creating a family bond that centers the series. The Featherington sisters could’ve easily become objects of frivolity and silliness if not for the deft handling of their portrayers – Harriet Cains (Philippa) and Bessie Carter (Prudence). These two characters are catty but vulnerable, ridiculous and clever, cruel and kind. Their dimension adds layers to not only their individual characters but the entire family dynamic.

At the head of each family are mamas different in demeanor yet equally devoted to their families. Polly Walker (Portia Featherington) and Ruth Gemmell (Violet Bridgerton) showcase depth of range in these roles. They give authenticity, complexity, and vulnerability to two women raising their children in a judgmental, male-dominated society. Now that their families are forever linked, I’m excited to see how these two fierce mamas fare in the seasons ahead.

Viewers care about the Bridgerton and Featherington families precisely because the actors portray them with such a range of talent.

LUKE AND NICOLA

To bring two of Julia Quinn’s fan favorites to life requires actors who can easily move through drama and comedy; artists who embody awkwardly adorable and confidently passionate with equal ease. Luke Newton and Nicola Coughlan embody all the above and more. They infused charm, humor, vulnerability, and love from the start of season one and navigated their respective characters’ journeys with seamless ease. This season required them to run the gamut of emotions within eight short episodes: love (unrequited and passionate), jealousy, longing, self-doubt, confidence, anger, hurt, pride, and more – with all focus on them for most of the season.

Luke and Nicola have brilliant on-screen chemistry (important for a romance) but more importantly they have allowed their characters to be vulnerable together. Viewers care about “Polin” as a romantic duo because we are invested in Penelope and Colin as individuals first. As Luke and Nicola grew with these beloved characters, it made “Polin’s” journey even more engrossing. It is precisely because this pairing is grounded in friendship that viewers waited with anticipation between parts one and two to discover whether the foundation would hold when truth seeps through the cracks.

These two talented actors are deserving of all the fanfare they’ve received, and I love that they shared the press bombardment together. They showed up across the globe with grace and humor, handling the onslaught of fame as a unit. May their respective stars keep shining on and off the screen.

BRIDGERTON’s third season not only met my expectations but exceeded them spectacularly! I appreciate all the talented, hardworking artists in front of and behind the camera who played any part in bringing “Polin’s” story to life. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

**DISCLAIMER: No endorsement by anyone associated with BRIDERTON, NETFLIX, SHONDALAND, or CVD PRODUCTIONS is implied!**

BOOK REVIEW – Fire Cannot Kill A Dragon: Game of Thrones and the Official Untold Story of the Epic Series

Published on by Kelly DeenyLeave a comment

In the October 2020 release of Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon: Game of Thrones and the Official Untold Story of the Epic Series, author James Hibberd takes readers along the journey, from start to finish, of the award-winning drama series that changed television. Hibberd’s passion for and experience in entertainment reporting lends itself to a book ‘GAMES OF THRONES’ fans are bound to love as much as the show that united them.

Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon differs from a standard behind-the-scenes book in that it features a balance of perspectives from the points of view of the cast, crew, and novels’ author who started it all. We get insight into how what we now define as a megalith of television greatness almost never made it to the screen, and the hurdles it overcame through sheer determination of those who believed in the project.

DIRE CHOICES

How did ‘GAME OF THRONES’ (GoT) come to be? Who were the ones who gave the greenlight for the adaptation from novel to television series? What is it like to be the ones who navigate the massive ship through waters that shift from calm to choppy without notice? Hibberd’s book excels by having a multitude of interviews and insights from TV executives, showrunners, directors, production designers, and writers. These were the individuals who brought to life the world we’d only imagined by making tough choices based on what they deemed best for the show. If not for them, we’d never been introduced to the talent of the actors and actresses who became household names.

CHARACTERS OF PROMISE

While reading the interviews Hibberd features in the book don’t be surprised if you laugh one minute then are moved to tears (especially in Emilia Clarke’s stories) the next. From Gwen/Nikolaj’s and Emilia/Kit’s banter to sister-soulmates Maisie and Sophie, the love and respect they have for one another jumps off the page. Friendships forged in laughter, shared struggle, and respect bond the GoT on-screen talent in ways we can never fully understand. Hibberd reveals the depth of mutual admiration the cast have for one another while also celebrating a fellowship that may go its separate ways, but will journey on forever changed. The gifted cast of ‘GAME OF THRONES’ hurdled into stardom together, and it’s only the beginning of a path well earned.

“DEER” VIEWERS

I joined the GoT fandom late in the “game” – only back in 2016, but quickly caught up in time to enjoy the final two seasons as they aired. This brilliant show became one of my favorite TV series of all time, and I have immense respect for the dedication and talent of those in front of and behind the scenes. Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon examines some difficult (and at time debated) creative choices through interviews with those who had to make them. As a viewer, I may not always agree; as a writer, I have the utmost respect for the decision makers.

At the age of 13 I thought that I’d grow up to be a TV writer, for I loved dialogue and character development. From that point on, I yearned to learn the how’s and why’s of making a television series (particular the dramatic kind). I’d buy entertainment-related magazines and read them front to back. I’d purchase series collections so that I could watch the bonus features, hearing from the artists in front of and behind the camera. While my writing path led to YA Fantasy author instead of TV writer, I celebrate the industry for the art it creates and admire those artists who share their talent, consistently seeking to improve their craft.

In Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon, James Hibberd’s respect for the industry and those who create within it are infused into each page. He delved into the world of ‘GAME OF THRONES’ from the perspective of both a professional in the industry and a fan of the craft. I borrowed the book from the local library, and devoured it’s contents within five days. I promptly bought a copy to keep in my personal collection.

I highly recommend this book for those in the GoT fandom (though caution newcomers that spoilers are included) and fellow TV enthusiasts interested in how an award-winning, pop-culture phenomenon not only gets made but soars as high as any dragon!

**DISCLAIMER: Do endorsement by any of the aforementioned individuals is implied.**

Queens of the Ashes: GAME OF THRONES Arya and Daenerys

Published on by Kelly DeenyLeave a comment

ARYA STARK

Arya’s been a fighter since S1E1; not only in a sling-an-arrow-stick-em-with-the-pointy-end kind of way. Her journey has been one of vengeance, retribution towards those who harmed her loved ones. She’s fought to survive, stay sane, and figure out not only who she is but who she wants to be.

Arya knew deep down what she did not want to be – she was no lady in the way the world formed them. She was a fighter, truthteller, passion-fueled girl who saw her loved ones taken from her again and again – her father, mother, brothers, Gendry. She literally lost her sight when she took vengeance into her own hands and fought back. When death came for her, she ran through the streets of Braavos – wounded but determined. Though trained to be “No One”, the lone wolf made a choice in the House of Black and White:  A girl HAS a name – A girl is Arya Stark of Winterfell; and she’s going home.

Over the course of two seasons, Arya’s gained those she lost; reuniting with her family, her champions, and her best friend. She opened her heart and made herself vulnerable in ways she could control – still doubtful of letting others see her clearly. Where once she was resigned to a life of death and loss, Arya was suddenly faced (pun intended) with another path. One veiled by uncertainty and vengeance. Now, Arya Stark of House Winterfell has a chance to return home once more – where home ends up remains to be seen.

DAENERYS TARGARYEN

She’s spent the past seven seasons finding out who she is through what matters to her. She’s always been surrounded by advisors (some who betrayed her and others who offered clarity and reason among chaos) and now at the end of it all she’s got but one trusted ally left (two if you count her dragon).

Daenerys’ trusted inner circle grew as a result of deep respect and belief. She saw those who were tortured and imprisoned as people worthy of her help – and freedom. She believed, and destiny confirmed, that she was the one to save them all. Jorah, Missandei, Grey Worm, Tyrion, and Jon all stood at her side because she’d earned their respect and love. One by one they’ve been taken from her, either through death or perceived betrayal. Her actions in S8E5 were ones of a woman whose world crumbled before her – alone and deceived by destiny. Everything she fought for and those who fought in her name told the story of a brave woman destined to rule – to rid the Seven Kingdoms of the tyranny that’s plagued them. Never do I believe she ever thought that her choices would lead her to become that which she fought against.

QUEENS OF THE ASHES

While Arya’s journey has been one of vengeance, Daenerys’ was justice to those who committed unspeakable acts. When faced with death, Arya chose life. Daenerys chose vengeance. They have been wounded (physically, emotionally, and mentally), burned (literally in Daenerys’ case), and threatened by those who deemed them weak. Time after time, they stood back up. They rose from the ashes and kept moving.  These two complex, flawed fighters have been on mirror journeys – how their stories end I do not know. But I will most definitely be watching!

**DISCLAIMER: No endorsement by anyone associated with GAME OF THRONES is implied.**

A Stark Reality: Why GAME OF THRONES Matters

Published on by Kelly DeenyLeave a comment
HBO shop front window (cropped view)

After a decade of hard work, sweat, tears, blood, and friendship – we soon bid adieu to the award-winning drama series, GAME OF THRONES. A show so beloved by fans and critics alike earns its spot among television greatness with sweeping saga storylines, fantasical elements, memorable characters and dialogue, costume masterpieces, and special effects that look more real than not.

I entered the GoT fandom in 2016, after my older sister’s passing. Perhaps watching this particular series with my mother seems an odd choice, but it bonded us – allowed us to escape from our grief for a while and rebuild a foundation on which House Deeny can stand. We binge-watched the first six seasons before the seventh’s premiere, and wait with anticipation together for the final journey into “Westeros”.

My mother and I are not alone in our excitement; a claim validated when I went to the HBO shop on Sixth Avenue ten days before the S8 premiere. The store was busy (as it will likely be for the near future) with fans pondering the agonizing decision of which item NOT to get. (To my delight, there were lots of House Stark merchandise leaving the shelves.)

Praying to the TV Gods (Old and New) that my favorite character survives!

GAME OF THRONES matters to people; I implore you not to discount it as a mere pop-culture phenomenon or decade-long fad as that would be doing a disservice to the cast, crew, and fans. If you doubt GoT’s significance, look at social media stats, fan fiction writings, cosplay photos, or the multitude of well-researched theory videos on YouTube. This fandom cares about not only the actors who’ve shot to stardom (deservedly so), but the finished artwork that is GAME OF THRONES. They know the names of those behind the scenes, respectful and appreciative of the writers’, directors’, and musicians’ dedication and craft.

We’re surrounded by chaos, anger, vitriol, and violence in our day-to-day life; so much so that it can seem daunting to trust that hope, joy, and love will reign supreme. People are fighting every day for what they believe in – to find justice for those persecuted or to put aside long-standing disagreements to battle an even greater threat. GAME OF THRONES entertains, shocks, moves, and awes us, but more importantly, it offers viewers a chance to examine the world around them and their part in it. We can overcome even the most challenging of obstacles, building relationships instead of walls.

The fans will certainly mourn the loss of the show (and most likely many of their beloved characters) come May 20th, but appreciation does not have a finale date. To all the artists (in front of and behind the camera) who were a part of GAME OF THRONES all these years: Your work matters! May this be but one reminder of just how much you all matter. Your watch has ended.  On April 14th, it’s the fans turn!

*No endorsement by any of the aforementioned entities, organizations, or their subsidiaries is implied.*

TIMELESS: Saving History and Inspiring Hope

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I watch a ton of television and not all of them are worth blogging about – save a few. Now, I can proudly add NBC’s TIMELESS to that list.

With a touch of sci-fi rooted in historical fiction, TIMELESS follows a dedicated team (a historian, a pilot, and a soldier) determined to protect the present by saving history. Season one allowed us to delve into the wants, needs, hopes, and fears of it’s heroic trio:  Lucy Preston (Abigail Spencer), Rufus Carlin (Malcolm Barrett), and Wyatt Logan (Matt Lanter). We came to understand them, cheer for them, “ship” them, and care enough to take the weekly journey with them.

After the hard-core fan base brought the show back from the TV cancellation bunker, season two honored what made the show so beloved while deepening it’s importance as a must-watch drama series. The creators and writing team didn’t play it safe by any means. They raised the bar each week, challenging their viewers to see history, and those who played an important role in it, as complex yet identifiable throughout time. They seamlessly interwove current struggles with those of who came before. For though our circumstances were drastically different, our hopes and fears weren’t so: love, acceptance, free will, freedom, friendship, and fighting for a cause you believe in.

 

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March for Science, Washington, D.C. – April 2017

 

I’ve reiterated numerous times on my genealogy blog how history was my least favorite subject. My older sister was the history buff, traveling to interesting locales and continuously learning about important points in our country’s foundation. If she were still alive, Jen would definitely have been a weekly viewer. (Wherever she is in time and space now, I hope she’s visiting all those historic places she researched so ferociously.)

Featuring a talented and diverse acting ensemble, TIMELESS makes history accessible to all; for what makes us different strengthens us. The flawed, relatable characters (including Jiya, Mason, Agent Christopher, and even Flynn) are a community, a team, a group of people who care for and love one another – race, ethnicity, or sexual orientation but a part of the whole.

I learn, reflect, and am moved after watching TIMELESS for two seasons. I implore the TV-powers-that-be to see as much worth in this impactful series as we do!

 

*DISCLAIMER: No endorsement by anyone associated with TIMELESS, NBC, its employees, subsidiaries, or associates is intended or implied.*

Actors are Real People

Published on by Kelly Deeny3 Comments

Despite what the fine print on your TV ads might say, actors are real people. Truly, they are! Unfortunately, I am continuously amazed that a percentage of the population treat celebrities as though they are not.

Actors (whether on screen or stage) have hopes and dreams, family and friends, ups and downs, and yes, even political opinions about the country and world in which they live. I’ve heard it stated on more than one occasion that “celebrities” shouldn’t complain about all the media attention or lack of privacy because it comes with the profession. That’s preposterous, ridiculous, and a load of…[bleep].

There’s been much talk as of late regarding “fans” and their sense of entitlement towards celebrities. The idea that fame constitutes ownership on any level is unfathomable. These are men, women, and children who are following their artistic passion. Their profession of choice enables them to make their dreams a reality – to act, sing, dance (all three) and share their art with the public. That’s beautiful and worthy of admiration. However, that does not invite a break in boundaries or lack of privacy by the adoring public. We have NO right to expect and/or demand that an artist (regardless of medium or level of fame) owes us their time, attention, or signature.

I completely understand the excitement of seeing your favorite actor, actress, or musician in person and the once in a lifetime opportunity of getting a selfie to show friends and family. I get that – I truly do. (If I ever met Lea Salonga in person I’d probably lose all ability at putting words together cohesively.)  But to intrude upon their personal space or assume that they have a right to acknowledge my presence because I may will it so…well, no – never would I ever.

Real People image

I like to think of celebrity sightings as a glass-half-full moment. If my favorite TV star or musical lead willingly makes time to sign autographs and take selfies, then that’s a happy surprise. Beside, there’s always conventions!!!!

 

If they choose instead to wait at the theatre between shows or are exhausted, in a rush, enjoying peace and quiet, or waiting at the airport then who am I to expect or assume that my needs supersede theirs? They owe me nothing – it is quite the opposite. If they’ve been brave enough to embrace their talent and succeed because of it, I owe them my respect and admiration.  I will continue about my day and, if moved enough, write a letter or blog post sharing my appreciation.

Perhaps the next time you’re frustrated, angry, or annoyed that an actor passed you by without acknowledgement, you might consider that…

Actors are real people!

 

*Recent allegations regarding illegal and unethical behavior by some in positions of power in Hollywood must be voiced and heard in order to enact change. I applaud the brave individuals speaking out against a culture poisoned by those who believe fame gives them a sense of entitlement. If you commit a crime, you should be held accountable by law – regardless of your chosen profession.* 

 

A GAME OF THRONES Newbie

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Winter came late for me as it was only last year when I journeyed into the TV series so many adored. After binge-watching the first six seasons of Game of Thrones with my mother I watched each Season 7 episode with excitement and anticipation.

I’d say I’m sorry it took me so long, but the circumstances which led to last year’s binge-viewing made us appreciate the drama series all the more. House Deeny lost its eldest daughter in June of 2016 and sadness filled the space we called home. My parents mourned for their first born, and the “Little Women” – esque sisters grieved for their fierce, independent, outspoken big sister.

 

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Picture of my sister was taken at a Scottish cemetery

 

A few weeks after my sister’s passing, my mother began her research into an Irish family vacation the following summer. When I mentioned that the Deeny ancestors came from Northern Ireland (Rathmullan in County  Donegal and Dungiven in County Derry to be specific), she focused on that area for her tourism research. It was then that GoT entered our world.

“There’s a Game of Thrones tour,” she told me. “Have you watched that show?”

“I haven’t, but so many people tell me I’d love it.”

We were hooked after the first episode and made it a weekly (or bi-weekly) viewing date. I don’t know that I could’ve watched a show that’s graphic in many ways with my mother under normal circumstances. However, we had to move forward into a new normal. Watching “our show” each week became a bonding opportunity for us. For an hour we could immerse ourselves into the drama and intrigue of a fictional world and the characters who inhabited it.

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We cheered for our favorites (Arya, Jon, Sam, and Tyrion) and I often wondered if my mom grieved when Catelyn Stark did. Like the fictional matriarch of House Stark, my mother is a passionate defender of her daughters – compassionate, wise, outspoken, and full of love. Just as Sansa and Arya embody the qualities of their mother in different ways, so too do the Deeny sisters.

This brilliant piece of fictional television deserves all the award recognition it’s received over the years, and I look forward to seeing the talent (on-screen and off) be recognized again for their stunning work in season 7. Game of Thrones is one such show that blends all artistic pieces into one seamless work of art. From the score; to the complex and twist-turning writing; and the raw, flawless acting GoT‘s praise warrants even more.

While I watched the newest season with dear friends (as my mother preferred the “wait for the DVD” method), we’ve decided that buying S7 in December will be a joint Christmas gift to one another. I’ll have plenty of time to get her caught up before the next and final (noooooo) season, and maybe we’ll still have time to get in that GoT tour in Ireland before S8 E1 airs.

UPDATE: 01/03/18 – I bought the Season 7 DVD the day it was released and my mother is now all caught up. She waits, as the rest of us do, for what Season 8 will reveal!
**DISCLAIMER: No endorsement by any organization mentioned above or their affiliates, actors, or producers is implied.**

 

 

‘Supergirl’ Inspires a New Generation at PaleyFest LA

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They walked down the aisle, their red capes leaving a trail of smiles behind them.

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My level of excitement for film and television blossomed throughout my childhood and remains intact as I approach the age of forty. However, the stark reality of a world so cocooned in fear and misery can make even this entertainment girl a little disillusioned. My view can sometimes cloud with a mist of cynicism and entitlement but every now and then, the briefest of moments can dissipate the mist and let a little bit of wonder shine in.

 

‘Supergirl‘ panel at the 2016 PaleyFest LA event

Taking time out of their Sunday night schedule, cast members Melissa Benoist (Kara/Supergirl), Calista Flockhart (Cat), Chyler Leigh (Alex), Mehcad Brooks (James), David Harewood (Hank/J’onn), and Jeremy Jordan (Winn) along with Executive Producers Greg Berlanti and Ali Adler joined us for an evening of laughter, discussion, and shared affection for this beloved series. Each of the panelists were absolutely delightful and the camaraderie between them evident – from Jeremy and Mehcad “suggesting” an interesting twist to the James/Kara/Winn love triangle to the heartfelt exchange between the Danvers sisters’ portrayers when asked about their off-screen relationship. I think Calista summed it up perfectly when she declared that “This is one of the most amazing, supportive casts…”.

 

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L-R: Moderator – Leanne Aguilera, Berlanti, Adler, Benoist, Flockhart, Leigh, Brooks, Harewood, and Jordan
 

Even before the lights dimmed and the panelists took their seats onstage, inspiration hit me like a ray of sunlight. I knew that I would write about the event after the fact, but was unsure how to present it, until I saw all the young girls in their Supergirl costumes. “This is what matters,” I thought as I stood alongside fellow fans along the Dolby Theatre’s balcony, straining to get a peek of the press line. A young girl with long blond hair walked up next to me and peered over the balcony. I grinned and said, “Are you excited?” The shy smile and wide eyes answered my question, warming my heart and sending my spirit soaring.

 

Before I knew it, my memory flooded back to myself at a young age. My long blonde hair fell over my Cinderella shirt as I’d watched the Main Street parade, waiting with growing anticipation for the arrival of my favorite animated princess. I waved emphatically and to my utter shock she pointed to me and said, “You look like me.” Thirty-some odd years later, at the TV version of a stage door experience, a young girl waiting to see her favorite character wiped that cloud of disillusionment right away.

 

The inspiration continued throughout the event as the actors talked about the positive influence of a show like Supergirl for the younger generation. Chyler spoke about how meaningful it is for her being a part of this show, given she has two young daughters, and the look of awe and excitement on the faces of children who visit the set and see Melissa in costume.

 

The moment that touched me most was when Mehcad Brooks took off his mic, jumped down to the front row, and placed a young fan on stage so we could all see the adorable Supergirl costume she had on. She had just asked Melissa if she could be her friend, to which Melissa immediately replied, “Yes, of course!” And when they realized that the rest of us couldn’t see the costume, Mehcad flew in to save the day. What a moment that must have been for that precious child whose smile hadn’t faded by the time we all left the theater an hour later.

 

It’s moments like those that reaffirm my support for the show and the delightful cast. As Melissa said, “I’ve been so privileged to get to know all these little kids who’ve been inspired by the show.” And that, ladies and gentlemen, is what makes Melissa (and her on-screen counterpart) inspiring to those young of age and young at heart.

*DISCLAIMER: No endorsement by or affiliation with anyone associated with Supergirl, DC Comics, Warner Brothers, CBS or their subsidiaries is implied.*

An Entertainment-Filled Weekend

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A recent trip from the east to west coast inspired me on both a personal and professional level.  As such, I wrote about my experiences on my Author website and have included the links below for your reading enjoyment!

A RECAP OF STORY EXPO 2015:  http://kellydeeny.com/2015/09/14/a-recap-of-story-expo-2015/

Story Expo

SUNDAY SOULJOURN: ENTERTAINMENT PATH

Sunday SoulJourn: Entertainment Path

Sunday SoulJourn Hollywood

Goodbye REVENGE: A Fitting Series Finale

Published on by Kelly DeenyLeave a comment

REVENGE viewers spent the past week speculating as to how this four-year journey would end. Who’d make it out alive? Would Amanda be able to say goodbye to Emily Thorne, the identity that defined her for over a decade? Were happy endings in store for Nolan, Jack, David, and Emily? How would the epic rivalry between Emily and Victoria finally come to a close? Tonight’s final episode of the series answered those questions and more.

I sat, riveted, on the edge of my seat throughout the entire episode.  I laughed, cried, and grinned from ear to ear.  I will miss watching this show but am so grateful for the four years of stories created by the REVENGE team, on-screen and off.

Instead of dissecting the episode, I decided to use this forum as a way to celebrate the show and all those dedicated and talented individuals who brought it to life.

It takes a village to raise a…TV show.  While the cast (I’ll get to them in a moment) become the face of the program, so many artists are involved to make the magic happen: set designers, prop masters, script supervisors, stunt coordinators, production assistants, and more. We would easily pass them in the grocery store and never recognize them, though their work left an indelible impression on our lives.

The journey of these characters has come to its end, but my respect and admiration for the cast only grows. Without their talent, we would never have cared about what happened each week. We wouldn’t have rooted for “Emily/Amanda” and loved to hate “Victoria”. One of the saddest parts about REVENGE ending its run is that I won’t see this talented group of actors portraying the characters that I adore. Each of the gifted artists deserve their own blog post, but let’s focus on the dynamic trio:

  • NICK WECHSLER (Jack Porter) – With a combination of gentlemanly charm and raw emotion, Nick made us care about “Jack”. We felt for the man on the outskirts of the truth, and understood his actions. We wanted him to find out that “Emily” was really “Amanda” and when he finally did, Nick steered his character through the choppy waters of that revelation. His character endured tremendous loss over four seasons, and its due to Nick’s talent that we grieved with him. “Jack” was not only “Amanda’s” safe place…he was ours, too.
  • GABRIEL MANN (Nolan Ross) – It takes tremendous skill to flow in and out of comedy and drama, yet Gabe made it look easy. One moment we’re laughing at one of his quotable one-liners, and the next, we grasp the gravity of the situation in which these characters lived in for four years. It’s fitting that it didn’t take long for “Emily” to trust “Nolan”, because we’d already fallen for him by episode 1×1.
  • EMILY VANCAMP (Emily Thorne/Amanda Clarke) – An actress whose work speaks volumes without uttering a world. That’s how I define Emily’s talent. She can say so much through a quiver of the lips, tear-filled eyes, and revenge-focused glare. We wanted “Emily Thorne’s” plan to succeed, because her portrayer maneuvered effortlessly between scarred little girl whose childhood was shattered, and a determined young woman on a mission. We cheered her on when she exuded control and fearlessness. We wept with her when loss hit home. Emily VanCamp’s work throughout the series is not only worthy of viewers’ praise and respect, but of acting awards too.

REVENGE may have set sail for the horizon, but it will live on with its viewers infinity times infinity!

**DISCLAIMER: No endorsement by anyone associated with REVENGE implied.**