Tag: TV dramas

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.**

REVENGE Recap: “Burn” Episode 4×20

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With now only three episodes remaining in this season of REVENGE, my anticipation for the May finale is ablaze with curiosity after last night’s game-changing hour of drama!

**SPOILER ALERT: If you have NOT watched up to episode 4 x 20 of REVENGE, stop reading and go watch!**

Now, let’s get down to the business at hand…Victoria’s hand, that is.

REVENGE "Burn"

FIRESTORM

Have we truly said goodbye to the Queen of the Hamptons?! If our eyes can be believed, than yes.  The end sequence (written by Ted Sullivan, directed by Kenneth Fink, and featuring a hauntingly-beautiful score by Fil Eisler) showed Victoria Grayson taking control of the situation and turning Grayson Manor to rubble with the help of an open flue and a lighter.

Throughout the episode, Victoria appeared to take the brunt of Emily’s Amanda’s plan of revenge. First, she got a not-so-nice greeting in the parking garage when a masked figure attacked the matriarch and searched her purse for some unknown item. Though she claimed that Emily was the culprit, she seemed too fearful to retaliate by handing over the incriminating flash drive to authorities.  Then, Emily adeptly retrieved said flash drive through a plan that involved pickpocketing a FBI agent and impersonating a firefighter.  Victoria’s mental state became unhinged as the minutes progressed until she donned a fiery red dress, sat on her throne, and flicked the lighter. She put the power back in her own hands, quite literally.

Victoria’s decision and motivation could not have been believed without the sheer talent of Madeleine Stowe.  She brought to life a character who was both tormented and strong, brave yet scared, and dedicated to her children.  Thank you for an incredible four years of Victoria Grayson!

GIRL FIGHT

I said this from the beginning of the season, but I’ll say it again: I like Margaux, and I think she’d make an amazing ally for Emily. Two smart, brave, passionate, and determined women fighting for a common cause would be a fierce duo no one should cross. However, I find myself enjoying the Margaux/Louise frenemy dynamic. Neither of these fiery women could agree on how best to protect and support Victoria, which led to loads of snarky comebacks and exchange of power until they finally decided to let their history be just that.

With Mama Grayson’s last act, she put into motion events that will pit Margaux and Louise against Amanda Emily. Ultimately, I still want our beloved heroine to outwit, outmaneuver, and outsmart the new tag team, but I’ll enjoy the ride in the meantime.

TAKING FLIGHT

“Don’t go, Jack!” That’s what kept running through my mind as our protagonist rushed to stop the man she loved (but has yet to tell him so) from leaving the Hamptons.  After Nolan attempted to convince his best guy friend of Emily/Amanda’s feelings, the two said a heartfelt farewell.  *Sidenote: The Nolan/Jack friendship has always been one of my favorites on REVENGE.  Kudos to Nick Wechsler and Gabriel Mann for making us love this bromance.* Nolan then booked it directly to his bff’s house, scolding her for not admitting her feelings sooner and prodding her to take action before it’s too late.

These two wounded characters hurt one another time and again, sometimes intentionally and other times due to misunderstanding and miscommunication. They’re both struggling to figure out who they are and how they fit into each other’s lives as adults. It’s a beautiful love story, based on friendship and developed over time.  As Amanda Clarke faces her past and an uncertain future, she’ll need Jack all the more in the present. I look forward to seeing how it develops in the final 3 episodes of the season.

As season four comes to a close, I anticipate a conclusion that will keep me glued to my seat and leave me momentarily speechless!

*DISCLAIMER: No endorsement by anyone associated with Revenge, its parent company, affiliates, sponsors, or artists implied!*

Reasons You Should Hire Me for Your TV Drama Series

Published on by Kelly DeenyLeave a comment

Working as a writer on a dramatic series was a dream that belonged to a teenage girl who hoped and wished. I now know without hesitation that the dream is not only possible but probable. It’ll take hard work – work that I’m ready, willing, and able to manage…I would love to gain insight from those currently in the Dramatic Writing profession. Understanding the paths they took may help guide me along my own.  – Day 31 of the Artistic Spirit Pledge: DRAMATIC WRITING

I write characters better than I sketch them!
I write characters better than I sketch them!

  1. DEDICATION: It takes a lot of hard work, time, energy, and talented artists (in front of and behind the camera) to bring a TV series to the screen each week. You only need read the end credits to see how many people are working together, united for a common goal. My passion and respect for the TV drama industry makes me a valuable asset to the team, whether you hire me to edit a script for consistency, answer telephones, or run errands for a producer.  I seek to develop my craft and learn from those whose expertise shines in the work they create.
  2. COMPLEX CHARACTERS: The characters I create and those I root for on a dramatic series must have inner turmoil on some level. I strive to develop situations where the labels of “protagonist” and “antagonist” no longer apply. It is through conflict exploration both internal and external that the characters develop, thus adding depth and complexity to the entire canvas.
  3. DIALOGUE: When I start a new story, it’s the dialogue that moves it forward. I can write idea after idea about what’s going to happen, but once the characters start conversing, the story takes on a life all its own. I find it not only exciting but creatively stimulating to create dialogue for each character that gives them a unique voice.
  4. TARGET MARKET:  I’ve spent most of my adult life utilizing my skill sets in programs, workshops, or completed writings that target teenagers and young adults.  With two decades of volunteer involvement in youth-oriented programs, I have a keen insight into their struggles, hopes, and goals. This understanding led me to write an 80,000 word Young Adult fantasy novel, which follows a young woman on her journey of individuality through family responsibility.
  5. GENEALOGY: I hated history, truly I did. However, when I realized that the ones who came before me experienced the same range of emotions (though the specifics differed) as I do, I saw them with renewed focus. We aren’t simply names and faces – we each have a story to tell.  My ancestors are complex characters in their own life story, and through genealogy research, I help create the first draft.
  6. APPRECIATION: The profound respect, admiration, and appreciation I have for the TV drama industry continues to inspire me on a daily basis. I love watching behind-the-scenes videos, reading interviews from Executive Producers and Show Runners, and discussing the episodes with viewers who share in my excitement. I hold this industry in high regard while also being able to look at it objectively.

I look forward to discussing my qualifications with you in greater detail. Please email me directly at kdeenywriter@yahoo.com.

Best wishes,
Kelly Deeny

Revenge Season 3 Finale Recap

Published on by Kelly DeenyLeave a comment

Season 3 of ABC’s Revenge started with a bang and a splash, keeping our interest the entire season through.  So, it’s no surprise that the finale would not only match the opener but take it to the next level of anticipation and intrigue!

Let’s recap, briefly, because there’s a great deal we need to discuss:

  • David Clarke was framed for a crime he didn’t commit
  • He was framed by Conrad and Victoria Grayson
  • David’s 9-year-old daughter Amanda was there the night her father was forced to the ground and taken into custody.
  • David Clarke died while in prison
  • Amanda Clarke, now grown, returns to the Hamptons as Emily Thorne, moving in next door to the Graysons.  Her plan – seek revenge for those who framed her father.
  • She married Conrad and Victoria’s son, Daniel, only to be intentionally shot by him on their wedding night (long story involving a fake pregnancy, alcohol, and a subplot about an ex-girlfriend).
  • Along the way, Emily/Amanda was helped by a handsome trio – David’s protegé (Nolan Ross), another revenge-seeker due to the David Clarke set-up scheme (Aiden Mathis), and her childhood sweetheart who only learned of her true identity during last year’s jaw-dropping season finale (Jack Porter).

WARNING: Spoiler alert!  Spoiler alert!  If you are not up to date on the last two episodes of Season 3, be forewarned that spoilers will follow.  Proceed at your own entertainment “peril”!

 

When we last left the Hamptons, Victoria had figured out that Emily was not all she claimed, Emily and her trio of helpers successfully trapped Conrad into admitting his long list of crimes and he was arrested, Charlotte Grayson Clarke (product of Victoria and David’s affair) finally opened her eyes, metaphorically speaking.  Oh, and Jack informed Emily that there’s a teensy-weensy possibility that David’s still alive.  And that brings us to tonight’s phenomenal season finale…

An entire hour of twists and turns, all lead up to a final few minutes that set an entirely new game in motion.  In summary, Victoria killed Aiden (I sobbed), Charlotte realized Jack was the “kidnapper” (darn it), and Emily had Victoria hospitalized in a mental institution (well played, Ms. Thorne).  Oh, wait…did I forget something – or someone?  A very much alive David Clarke climbed out of that van and revealed himself to a flabbergasted Conrad.  That is, right before David stabbed his former employer and drove away.  This sets up a multitude of directions for the show to take when it returns in the fall.  And I, for one, can’t wait!!  When does the full Season 3 DVD set come out, so I can watch them again? 🙂

Television programs receive my high praise when they keep my interest each week.  They hook me in with intriguing characters and surprising plot twists that ultimately create an added level of dimension to the story and the players.  Revenge is one such television drama series.  I’ve seen every episode from the pilot on through and look forward to seeing what happens next!

Little Lotte: Steering Through Choppy Waters

Published on by Kelly DeenyLeave a comment

**WARNING:  THIS POST IS NOT SPOILER FREE**

While those of us who call ourselves Revengers wait for the show’s return on December 8th, I took to my jewelry-making venture and made necklaces inspired by three of the female characters on ABC’s Revenge.  To see the “Emily/Amanda”-inspired piece, click here.  But, first…give “Charlotte” her turn in the spotlight.

Nautical pendant with accents of silver, dark red, and blue pearl beads.
Nautical pendant with accents of silver, dark red, and blue pearl beads.

“Charlotte Grayson Clarke” is a young woman torn apart by family.  Raised in an affluent household, she lived a carefree life until her world crumbled around her.  The revelation of her true parentage rattled her and had her searching for a place to call home and an identity that was all her own.  She found the unconditional love she never got from the Graysons (her brother, Daniel, notwithstanding) through the love of “Declan Porter” and her half-sister, “Amanda”.  She even found a friend in “Emily”, not knowing that “Emily” is actually “Amanda”.  Confused, watch the show!

After numerous tragic events within a short period of time, Charlotte underwent a reinvention of sorts.  She’s tougher, independent, and even a mini version of her mother.  She’s taken the helm of her own life and in doing so, has distanced herself from “Emily”.  Where not long ago she found a confidante and mentor in her brother’s fiancée, now she questions, distrusts, and even seeks to end the relationship.  Princess Lotte remains in the dark as to her familial connection with “Emily”.  So as she sets out to push “Daniel” towards happiness, she’s also destroying the plan her half-sister has put in motion.

Torn between two lives and ultimately two strong women, “Charlotte’s” necklace reflects a young woman attempting to take control of her life.  I added ruby-red accent beads to tie in her relationship to “Emily/Amanda”.  Plus, if my prediction is correct, the nautical theme will be quite apropos when Revenge takes it winter break.

 

DISCLAIMER:  No endorsement intended or implied

A Thorne in Their Sides

Published on by Kelly Deeny1 Comment

To fill the void until ABC’s Revenge returns on Sunday, December 8th, I’ve merged my love of writing and entertainment with a new-found artistic venture…jewelry-making.  Life inspires art, or in this case one artistic interest inspired another.

I have created necklaces inspired by three of the female characters on Revenge.  First up…”Emily Thorne/Amanda Clarke”.

Rose pendant with ruby-colored crystals and silver accents
Rose pendant with ruby-colored crystals and silver accents

Snatched from her father and the innocent life she led, a young “Amanda Clark” was forever changed in an instant.  Driven by fury towards those who wrongly accused her father, a now grown “Emily Thorne” is a shadow of her childhood self.  The young woman who returned to the Hamptons has tried desperately to maintain the persona she created so many years prior.

Very few know her true identity and fewer still know her true self.  As our protagonist fights for justice, she strengthens the walls around her heart.  Love in its truest and purest sense is difficult to maintain in the life that “Emily” has chosen.  At least, so far that’s been the case.  The romantic entanglements intertwine with lies, misunderstandings, and pain.  Pain of what was lost and what could never be.

Focused in her mission to destroy the Graysons, her actions are purposeful and clever.  Both the guilty and innocent have fallen prey to the path “Emily” willingly walks down.  With blood on her hands and pain in her heart, she does battle with the scared little girl she left behind in seek of revenge.

*Visit the website to learn more about this complex character and the talented young woman, Emily Van Camp, who portrays her with grace and care.*

DISCLAIMER:  No endorsement intended or implied!

Vamping It Up: Why I Love The Vampire Diaries

Published on by Kelly DeenyLeave a comment

**SPOILER ALERT:  This post may contain spoilers for those viewers who haven’t seen all of last season’s episode.  Proceed at your own entertainment “peril”!**

Up until the Primetime Emmy Awards telecast on September 22nd, this blog will focus on the returning TV shows I’m most excited are coming back.  This week’s entry is…The Vampire Diaries!

I’m 36 years old, and I love watching The Vampire Diaries!  Yes, you read that correctly.  It’s intelligently written and understands their audience and genre in a way not many do.

I do not consider myself a horror fan by any stretch of the imagination, but I tend to enjoy the supernatural-esque television programs.  Then again, that’s probably only because Buffy the Vampire Slayer was an excellent TV show.  I was so impressed by the high quality of content each week for 7 years that when I heard a new vampire show was coming to TV, I was instantly intrigued.  Besides, it was under the care of two gifted individuals – Kevin Williamson and Julie Plec.

I grew up during the WB heyday of television.  Which is why, if Joss Whedon, Kevin Williamson, and J.J. Abrams ever worked on a project together I would absolutely stand in line to buy tickets.  These are three exceptionally talented writers/show runners who seamlessly balance comedy, suspense and drama.  I watched Dawson’s Creek each week, engaged by the stories, characters and dialogue.  So, the creator of Dawson’s Creek bringing a vampirific show to television…you better believe I was going to watch!!!

There are so many elements that make TVD a must-watch show – complex characters, surprising twists, and a beating heart.  It doesn’t just scare you, or throw melodrama in your direction.  Instead, it interweaves supernatural content with an emotional base.  It’s not just that vampires are roaming around town.  More importantly, the audience sees and understands how these situations impact the characters on an emotional level.

Hand-made necklace that's rather Vampire Diaries-esque
Hand-made necklace that’s rather Vampire Diaries-esque

In much the same way as Buffy, The Vampire Diaries allows their characters to drive the show.  If we don’t care whether Elena lives or dies, then why bother watching?  If Damon never has moments of decency, then he’d become one-note.  If Stefan remained always the hero and never faulted, then we’d long for something deeper.  In all of those instances, the opposite occurred.  For example, Elena Gilbert encompasses kindness, family, friendship, humanity and life itself.  She keeps the show grounded in a world filled with tragedy and despair.  When she hurts, we hurt.  When she losses another important person in her life, we cry along with her.  The writers continuously take Elena on a bumpy ride that I hope doesn’t end soon.  Because as she battles her own demons, we ultimately wish that she succeeds.

We care about what happens to the characters on this beloved drama series because of the nuances in the acting performances.  They each portray comedy and drama with ease.  They melt our heart one minute then showcase their range when their character shifts from tortured soul to outright cruelty.

Nina Dobrev (Elena), Paul Wesley (Stefan), and Ian Somerhalder (Damon) easily weave in and out of heartbreak and breaking hearts.  They’ve each been given the gift of playing characters without conscience and ones torn apart by their actions.  In Nina’s case, there are many times when she gets to weave in and out between 3 very different characters, and does it so well that I forget the same actress portrays them all!  These three gifted individuals have us rooting them on even when their respective characters are on a downward spiral.

As phenomenal as those three artists are, The Vampire Diaries has gifted us with a strong canvas of characters that inhabit the world of “Mystic Falls”.  Some of those actors who stole our hearts (no pun intended) are portrayed brilliantly by the following – Candice Accola, Kat Graham, Steve McQueen, Zach Roerig, Michael Trevino, Joseph Morgan, Sara Canning, Claire Holt, Matthew Davis and so many more.

While I’ve singled out one aspect of TVD, there are so many other pieces of the puzzle that accent one another beautifully – the writing, music, stunts, and cinematography blend together perfectly; thus creating a finished work that’s worthy of my praise and admiration.  The Vampire Diaries doesn’t get award recognition from academy members, yet they’ve won on a much more significant level.  The cast and crew of this heart-wrenching TV drama have the love and respect of their audience.  As such, they’ll live on in our hearts years after the series finale.