Big Brother is Back (& I don’t hate it…)

Posted on July 4, 2019 by myhollywoodhangover

I’m finally caught up on Big Brother and ready to discuss!

Mostly because, I’m not hating it … yet. I’ve watched BB for ten years now (Season 11 was my first) and the last few years have been paaaaainful to get through. Season 15 had some of the worst humans possible on the show, who made terrible, racist comments toward one another. Seasons 18 & 19 brought us not one, but TWO summers of Paul Abrahamian. And last season was basically just one side of the house against the other, with no one enjoyable to root for.

But this year …

… doesn’t suck (so far)! In fact, I look forward to watching it on Sunday! Let’s get into it!

The House Guests

As the show progresses, I know I’ll be flippy-floppy on who I enjoy, but right now I really find everyone pleasant, except for Jason Momoa (I don’t even know his first name, but you know who I’m talking about). I don’t like how he tried to control the HOH this past week (Christie I think her name is? She reminds me actually of Christmas from a few seasons back, the contestant, not the season). And NOW *spoiler* he’s is the HOH for this upcoming week. Ugh.

Every year, I root for an all girls alliance, but sadly it seems like that won’t be the case, yet again. However, I guess it possibly could still happen as Christie decided to not complete Jason Momoa’s plan. I’d love to see them all band together to get out Momoa and his sidekick, homeboy Jackson. I also wouldn’t be sad to see Kat or Kemi leave as well; I read both their bios, and their BB knowledge seems quite limited, which always annoys me when CBS casts people who haven’t watched much of the show. So far, my favorites include Holly, Tommy, Nick, and Sam.

The Twists

While I think the secret powers are kind of dumb, I am obsessed with this Camp Comeback twist! Basically, the first four evicted leave the game (no comps or voting), but can continue to live in the house socially, with a chance to eventually enter back into the game (only 1 person). But, why I love this so much is if you’re Head of Household and evict someone, they don’t leave! They’re still in the house living right along side you, discussing with others why they got voted out, and hovering around with a chance to come back into the game fully.

David (who was gone too soon) and Ovi (who is so sweet & enjoyable) are the first two in this camp. I think both of them are strong players socially and could shake up alliances, especially because it seems like some house guests are starting to crack (Christie, Kat).

For Now…

Hopefully I can keep up and not fall behind with the show like I have in the past. It can be really hard, especially with it airing three days a week.

I predict Jason Momoa will target Kemi because that’s who he wanted out originally; she has no game knowledge and seems like she’s only good for talking smack on people, so I see her getting really upset with being nominated. I’m here to watch her implode … explode? Or, I could see Momoa being upset with Christie for not nominating Kemi last week like he wanted; Christie is in his alliance, so that too would be a shake up. It’s boring to me when alliances stay together for week after week, running the house; I like when they implode … explode? and there is oodles upon oodles of drama!

It’s pretty early to predict winners; I’d really like Sam Smith, aka Daffy Duck, win because he’s a dad and seems like a good dude. I also respect Nick and wouldn’t mind seeing him win because hes child therapist; I mean, what an incredible job to have!

Make sure you’re following me on Twitter for continued updates on all things BB21!

“Now that you’re telling me that, I remember …”

Posted on June 5, 2019 by myhollywoodhangover

Raise your hand if you’re enjoying Hannah’s season …

I just love her so much, plus I’m not hating the men, so I don’t mind writing another Bachelor related post (you can find my previous one here: 55 Thoughts From the Bachelorette Premiere).

Enough about the past though, let’s get into this week’s episode!

Jed’s One-on-One:

Sooo, my satellite was out the majority of this date due to a storm. Based off Twitter, Hannah took Jed to see the Boston Celtics, and Jed didn’t seem too impressed by the players, even though Twitter said they were well known?? #kindofaturnoff

There’s also this …

My TV did return, right at the moment where Jed basically told Hannah he came on the show for it’s platform and to further his music career. While I (and Hannah seemed to) respect his honesty, I think Jed is officially out of my top four.

Group Date:

I agree with Hannah; you have got to be a MAN to survive this date, so bring it on! At the same time, I live in the Midwest and Rugby is not something we have around “these here parts.” What a freaking crazy sport!! I can not BELIEVE they don’t wear pads and that even if a player is down, the game keeps going.

Regardless. The date …

… was extremely intense. The ambulance scene was totes overrated, however, the Luke on Luke drama was not. It completely looked like a cheap shot (given to Luke S from Luke P) based off the footage we were shown (& for once, it didn’t look edited).

Also, did you know that if you forget something, but someone tells you what happens, then you have the power to remember? Hm. Who knew?

Ya learn something new everyday!

If you don’t know what I’m talking about, it was how Luke P reacted when called out on the lies he told regarding his altercation with Luke S later on the evening portion of the date. The guys ganging up on Luke P was my favorite part of the night (Hannah’s silver suit was my least).

Tyler’s One-on-One:

First, I understand completely why Hannah was upset going into the date; the previous evening and the actions of Luke P shook her. How many of you reading this have misjudged a person you were in a relationship with? She felt the strongest connection to someone who all the guys have an issue with; that has to be really tough to think your opinion of someone you really like may be (& probably is) wrong. However, Tyler was there to turn her frown upside down and melt the hearts of the audience in the process.

Second, all the single women watching Tyler’s date …

Finally, Jake Owens! Bachelorette bringing out the big names for this date!!

Cocktail Party:

Awwww, Hannah and Peter are dating! I thought it was funny and cute when he asked her to be official, while still being okay she’s dating fourteen other men (hahaha). Annnd, that’s really all I took from her one-on-ones at the cocktail party … besides the Luke on Luke drama.

I thought Cam’s amputated leg/sick grandma/puppy story from last week was the most BS one guy could feed Hannah at a time, but Luke P took the cake. He continued to lie all through the party. His best of the night had to be the following …

Luke P to Hannah: “Luke S is not here for you, but here to promote his tequila brand.”

The guys to Luke: “Do you believe that Luke S is here for the wrong reasons?”

Luke P: “No, Luke S is here for the right reasons! I’ll go tell Hannah that right now!”

The guys: “Yeah, make sure you tell you how wrong you were.”

Luke P to Hannah: “Luke S wanted me to come up here and tell you he’s here for the right reasons.”

Or something like that. Watching at home, once the clock hit 8:55, (central time for me) we knew we wouldn’t be getting a rose ceremony until next week. I foresee a Luke v. Luke date in our future, or a Luke S departure. I don’t think Luke P will leave just yet; I’m standing firm that he’s the one who makes the inappropriate “sex before marriage” comments that piss Hannah off. Regardless, between not having to sit through Jed’s date, the Luke drama, and sweet & precious Tyler, this episode was not a bore!

One Final Thing:

Before we go, I must plug my absolute favorite Bachelor Nation podcast, Broses Before Roses.

It’s four (I’m assuming middle aged?) friends who watch and discuss the current season of whatever Bachelor franchise is playing.

And. they. are. freaking. hilarious!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Forewarning … they don’t take it as seriously as we all do, so there are times they get things wrong. There are also times they go weeks, or months without recording (which is so annoying!!). But I promise you, if you’re any sort of Bachelor fan, stick with these guys. They are so unbelievably funny! I wish they would recap more shows; it wouldn’t even have to be realty TV related. I’d take a recap of anything from them (except maybe sports).

Fingers crossed they read this (maybe even give MHH a shout out on their show??), and realize that if we must all sit through two hours of Luke P … then they least they could do is twist it into hilarious content for our listening pleasure!

But for now … here’s to finding out which Luke goes home next week!

Hopefully both!

The Game Is Over #GOT Recap

Posted on May 22, 2019 by myhollywoodhangover

I always feel so empty at the finale of a series. Think about it: all those years you put into it, every tweet or discussion with a friend … now it’s over. How will the characters’ lives go on if we can’t check in on them? For some reason, the Game of Thrones ending seemed the biggest of all. I don’t know if it’s because I was actually following along with the rest of the world instead of binging, or if it really was just that massive of a television event. Perhaps the show’s twists, turns, and shocking moments made it the world phenom it was. Regardless, I’m here to talk about it ending … and please don’t start a petition if you disagree with my thoughts.

Sunday night: I know I didn’t feel satisfied, but I also didn’t want to be angry like so many fans seemed to be. Mainly I was confused. Now that I’ve had some time to think about how the characters’ stories ended, I’m not confused or upset anymore. Everything actually makes so much sense, especially after two seasons of rushed storytelling.

So for this final Thrones post, I thought I’d go character by character to see where they landed on the scale of approval or disapproval as far as the writing.

Jon Snow: Initially I felt like, after all he’s been through, he gets banished to the Night Watch by his own brother … when Jon himself is the freaking one true heir to the Throne!? However, Jon never wanted the Throne, that was obvious. Also, I’m not sure if you would call them his happiest, but his days in the Night Watch, plus uniting the Free Folk with the Northerners seemed to be Jon’s most enjoyable (and stable) time. He was brought back to life by the Lord of Light to save the world, which he did in the battle against the White Walkers AND in killing Daenerys. After I really thought about it, I don’t know that I see Jon Snow living out his days anywhere else besides the Wall … or beyond.

Sansa Stark: What a story for this girl, to rise up from a little bird to now a queen! I have never been a Sansa Stark fan until this season and I really would have liked to see her rule the Seven Kingdoms. But, she is nothing if not loyal, and her loyalty to her people and home proves the person she is and the queen she’ll be. I also loved how she proclaimed the North’s independence! The girl is badass and will be as a ruler, no doubt!

Arya Stark: I would have enjoyed seeing Arya a) slit Cersei or Dany’s throat, & b) serve as the hand to the king (who I wish was Jon). But just as she’s not the lady by Gendry’s side, she’s also not an adviser to a ruler. She’s an assassin and explorer. I loved her emotional goodbye to Jon and the ending shot of her on the ship with the Stark wolf banner flying high!

Bran Stark: The. Last. Person. I. Would. Have. Chosen. To. Be. King … but, when I think back to everything he’s been through, mainly falling out of a tower window and watching Hodor die, I can see his story come full circle and his end being to sit on the Iron Throne. I knew there was more to that talk he had with Tyrion back in Winterfell, and I was really surprised Tyrion said Bran’s name when addressing the person who had the most interesting story; I thought for sure he’d say Jon. My least favorite scenes throughout the seasons were always Bran’s warging, but I guess they were important after all. They led him to the Throne.

Tyrion Lannister: I have been ride or die for Tyrion since early on … mostly because I relate to him in that I can’t fight, but would like to believe I could talk my way out of anything (I cannot). Plus he has the best quote of the show: “That’s what I do. I drink and I know things.” He killed his evil father, sided with Dany (before she went insane), and always seemed to see people’s true nature. With all that being said, I could not be happier that he made it until the end, especially when he had countless moments where he could have perished.

I love that a Lannister is now serving under a Stark (has this ever been a thing?), and he’s exactly where he needs to be: Hand of the King. Plus, how crazy that Bran is in a wheelchair and Tyrion is a dwarf, yet they are two of the most powerful men as the show comes to a close. All of it just proves that the strongest don’t always have what it takes to survive and rule.

Daenerys Targaryen: Okay, it wasn’t a huuuuge shock to me that she died. I wasn’t even really shocked it was Jon who killed her. I mean, I was, but I didn’t have a theory as to who would do it. The only way I would have been truly shocked was if she didn’t die at all. Jon killing her made sense; I’m glad he finally wasn’t turning a blind eye to her crazy (I think her speech to her soldiers did it for him; the b’s face was going so cray, I thought her eyes were going to fully pop out of her head).

I also appreciate Jon giving her, at least what seemed like, a merciful death. I mean, it seemed like she went quickly and somewhat peacefully? Omg, but if you want heart wrenching, it was seeing her dragon’s reaction. First, how he nudged her with his little snout, only to then lose it and spit fire. Correct me if I’m wrong, but I didn’t think Valyrian steel could melt by dragon fire? Or at least it seemed that way until Drogon really turned up the heat and melted down the Iron Throne to nothing. Many have theorized that Drogon knew the chair of 1,000 swords was the ultimate killer of his mother and that’s why he burned it down. I like that theory; I’ll take that!

Cersei & Jaime Lannister: Not fair that these two got to die together, however, if any character arc was fulfilled, it was theirs. I can’t believe the incestual twins were the epic love story of the series! While I was heartbroken Jaime left Brienne, it’s way more believable that he’d go back to his sister. I did like seeing Cersei beg not to die, but it would have been way more pleasurable for us fans to see her suffer, bleed out, be tortured, pulled apart by a dragon … ANYthing but go quick with the love of her life. “They came into this world together, and they left this world together.” Ugh, give me a break!

Yet, for some reason, this photo makes me so so sad …

Brienne of Tarth: I loved her ending, especially the part where she completed Jamie’s story in that big Knights dictionary. She took the high road, writing that “he died protecting his queen.” Brienne would never be “the scorned woman” because she’s simply too good of a human, perhaps the only good one on the show.

Additional advisers to the king … aka, the Small Council:

Samwell Tarly as the Grand Maester is my absolute favorite thing ever! Rock that robe Sam!
Brienne of Tarth getting the respect she deserves as the only female adviser AND Lord Commander of the Kingsguard! You go, Glen Coco!
I’m really confused why Bronn of the Blackwater is Master of Coin? Like, he may have came into riches since he got promoted to Lord of Highgarden, buuuut he’s never really had money, soooo I’m unsure why he’s running the budget now.
Ser Davos, aka Master of Ships, is a good man, who deserved to live through everything, although I never fully expected for him to make it to the end.

Ghost: He definitely needed justice after the way Jon literally ghosted him earlier in the season. I’m glad he made it through everything, especially battling White Walkers, to go live happily ever after with Jon in the end! (Wait, is this the most epic love story of the series??)

If I didn’t cover one of your favorites, you can read more about how all the characters’ stories ended here –> https://www.cnet.com/news/game-of-thrones-season-8-where-did-every-character-end-up-in-the-finale/

Closing Thoughts

I don’t think I have any. Maybe I’ll have more once I’ve thought harder, read Twitter longer, and discussed with friends further. I’m so sad the show is over, but I feel like all the loose ends got tied up; I’m satisfied. The writers provided us a satisfying ending! Plus, since I’ve read the first book, I’ll be starting the second one this summer; it’s not like it’s actually over!

For all of you that watched along with me …

Image result for game of thrones goodbye

That’s a wrap!

55 Thoughts From the Bachelorette Premiere

Posted on May 16, 2019 by myhollywoodhangover

Bachelorette is back!!

… and this time it’s Hannah’s turn to find love!

I decided that instead of recapping the premiere episode, I’d just keep track of my thoughts as they came to me while watching! Enjoy below and come find me on social media to share your thoughts too!

Omg I freaking love her!
I cried during ATFR when they showed Chris Harrison calling her and I’m crying this time too!
Ohh no! Not that awkward Colton toast again!
It may be silly, but I don’t think I’ve been this excited to watch the lead, rather than meet the “contestants.” I’m PUMPED to see Hannah’s journey!

Okay. The men. Hometown clips first.
This Tyler kid is cute … but um, not the best dancer …
THE PILOT IS CUTE!
It’s a no for me on the box guy, but undecided on the guy who loves his great grandmother.
Yes on the cute farm boy … no on the corporate man
Why do they keep calling her “The Bachelorette?!” Call her Hannah!

Cue the limo intros! It’s looking like she has some hotties!! (These pictures did not do them justice!)

She looks amazing in that silver sequined dress!!
Garrett: very handsome, don’t love his hair
Mike: like the skinny red tie, however, I wouldn’t be able to remember all those, ahem, “C words!”
Jed: Cute! “I can’t wait to get to know your heart!”
Tyler C: he was from the beginning … the dancer, right? Umm … maybe I jumped the gun too early on him; not digging it
Dylan: don’t like the white jacket
Connor S: fence jumper … um no; too much cheese
Devin: suuuper cute! Ugh, the virgin comment, not here for it
John Paul Jones: no no no no no no no no NO!
Then comes giggle guy, tongue tied guy, other guys I missed because I was looking on Twitter
Joe is the box guy, excuse me, “Box King” –> the WORST so far!
I LOVE to watch the guys inside the mansion judge the others as they arrive!

Luke coming in with some douchy line; he was the one who found God in the shower, right? … your douchy line just proves you probs haven’t changed much my man.
I’m trying not to like Cam, but I’m smiling during his limo exit …
The others are calling Cam “Mr. Rose” … uh oh, villain vibes??
Matt Donald: so so so so so cute!! Standing out, but not in a cheesy way!
Wait, so there are two pilots? That’s not the same guy from before?
Ohhh there is the cute pilot! What’s his name again?
Rachel’s commercial!

Go girl! Make that Zyrtec $$!!

Annnd we’re back! Hannah’s saying a prayer! Awe! She’s so wonderful … oh and her speech is great too!

Here come the one-on-ones …
Ugh, I don’t want to like this Luke guy … but I do. Please be honest about your niece and actually wanting a wife; don’t just be giving Hannah a line!
Mike Jones: “Tell me more about that!” Awww he’s pretty awesome; hitting the real, real topics; please don’t be playing her either!
These games are stupid; I prefer the actual conversations!
The rapper with the rose is reeeeally feeling himself, but I’m glad he was a gentleman and asked if he could kiss her.
Okay … the singer can get! it! Jed? Jud? Jude?
So thaaaat’s why Demi is here! Glad she’s looking out for our girl!

Whew! I was really worried the hot pilot had the gf! I predict now that he’s going to go far!
How does Demi know this is the guy?
Oh, because he’s a TOTAL DOUCHE!!
Wait, why would his girlfriend allow him to go on the show in the first place?!
Hannah Beast is about to be released!

Her snarkiness is exactly how I would handle this too!
Eat him alive Hannah!!
Whoa whoa whoa … he’s comparing having a girlfriend to her dating Colton months back?! DOUCHEEEE!
Hannah ain’t here to play!!
Neither is Luke; he’s going in for a round two!
Wait, who is that guy?! Missed limo scene alert.
Connor S. is kind of cute; I think I remember him from the ATFR?
First Impression: Luke. We all know the track record with the Bachelorettes and the men they pick for the First Impression Rose; he better not be playing her!
Eeek whoa …. Luke. Down boy with that make out sesh!

Time for the Rose Ceremony!

Some stay & some go … all I care is THAT SHE SENT FARMER MATT DONALD HOME!!!! He’s the new Grocery Store Joe for sure!! Hopefully justice is served for him in Paradise!
Although … I am happy the box guy went home and the non-cute pilot left too!
Hahaha it’s morning as they walk out.
“To adventures!!”

Thanks for sticking out the two hour premiere with me!

Follow me on IG & Twitter as we all track Hannah’s journey to find love!

Quotable RHONY: 11×10

Posted on May 13, 2019 by myhollywoodhangover

The housewives in New York City are out of control and I have the quotes and the countdown to prove it.

Cringest Quotes

1. Luann

“What, is Bethenny going to go home and watch her daughter sleep? Because, it’s Halloween; it’s 11:00 at night. I mean, isn’t the kid sleeping?”

You. Ungrateful. Peasant. I can’t even with Luann right now! How DARE she say that about Bethenny?! First, you make B come out on a night she even has her daughter with her, second, you don’t come down to see the ladies or invite them up to see you before the show, and last, you don’t start your performance on time! I’m sure I’ll hear something like, “She started 9 minutes late! Bethenny couldn’t stay?” I don’t have children yet, but I’m fairly certain if you have to relieve your babysitter, than you have to go.

I thought the Luann “too big for her britches cabaret star” story line was just to spruce up the season, but it’s very much true that she’s really feeling herself right now on the show. From not wanting the fish room, to talking shiz about Bethenny in the salon, to this. Get over yourself Countess!

I suppose her reckoning is coming though, if you watched the mid-season trailer or if you’ve read recently headlines claiming she can’t stay sober. I should probably cut her some slack because she has an uphill climb, but that also doesn’t excuse her insensitive comments so far this season.

2. Tinsley

“I figure if you’re going to lose it, and be so hysterical and emotional, you might as well do it looking like a clown, with a big bow on your head and like, pink cheeks.”

Yes, Tinsley, we can all see the big bow and the pink cheeks you’re wearing; you don’t have to remind us every episode. And quit acting like you were all embarrassed by your costume; you know you loved it.

Yay you for getting back into society … if getting back into society is having the Big Apple Circus announce your name and give you one line to say. Yay you for being strong and ending things with Scott … if being strong about it is getting drunk and hysterically crying over him. Yay you for having such a strong relationship with your mother … if having a strong relationship is relying on her like a child.

I know I know, I’m going hard on Tinsley too, and I do realize all she wants is a family. But, why does that have to define her? Why can’t she be strong on her own or put herself out there to meet the man of her dreams? Or heck, pull an Andy Cohen and get a baby before you get a man!? My annoyance with Tinsley comes from the fact that I just want to shake her, remind her how great her life is, and tell her to grow the F up!

3. Ramona

“I have lots of friends, so everyone can’t be invited; I’m sorry!”

As if her social climbing attempts that were caught on film this season haven’t been enough, plus the fact that she wants all these people to throw her birthday parties, Ramona helped create one of the most uncomfortable speeches in housewives’ history. THEN she had the audacity to blame it on Dorinda and Sonja (personally it was all three of their faults, but I like to put the majority of the blame on Ramona).

“Hello! You’re the one who reached me! [wtf does that even mean?!] I’m hosting and I invited you to co-chair, like why are you interrupting my speech? After I talk, then you talk.”

Riiiiight Ramona, because you’re the only one who ever has anything important to say.

4. Dorinda

“There you go. Important. Important. Don’t ever do that to me again. Don’t ever …”

I don’t necessarily judge Dorinda for her comments this week; she’s said much worse in the past. But, she was a part of that whole speech fiasco and she did interrupt Ramona (which she has a tendency to do), thus she made the list … if only because she contributed to us viewers having to watch part of the episode with one eye shut due to the awkwardness of it all.

However … not everything the women said this week was terrible because the ….

Greatest Quote Goes to …

Sonja

“The best thing that Luann could do right now is do what every other diva does; they just say ‘I didn’t mean to miss you all. I couldn’t find you.’ Don’t be defensive! That’s not the answer! You needed to come over and kiss our rings …… we’re divas too!”

While she may have been unhinged a few week’s back with the “f***ing Morgan letters!!” Sonja is more and more becoming the voice of reason for all the ladies. Plus, she calls out each of her friends when they are wrong. She stood up for Bethenny when Luann was trying to shame her for leaving the performance early, and she called out Ramona for her birthday party comments, her actions toward Harry, & the entire Birdie/Bridie fiasco. Sonja wins this week for me!

Honorable Mention:
Bethenny

I realize Bethenny was also in this episode, but mainly it was her running to and from events, so I don’t have any specific quotes to shame or applaud her for. I’m quite sure she had some great comments in her interviews (as she always always does), plus it looks like next week she starts to come for Luann, which I’m ready for, but nothing too memorable this week for me to mention. Well, except for this …

Image result for real housewives of new york shalloween

Thumbs up or down?

“We Don’t Trust Your Queen” GOT Recap 8×4

Posted on May 8, 2019 by myhollywoodhangover

The episode opened honoring the fallen from the Battle for Winterfell, alongside a beautiful speech by Jon Snow.
Know who was not one of the fallen? Ghost!
Party in the North!!

Gendry is named Lord of Storm’s End
Podrick, Brienne, Jaime, and Tyrion played a drinking game
Jon Snow is basically treated like a god!

Annnnd Dany didn’t seem to like it*

Image result for game of thrones starbucks cup

Oh ya! Starbucks made a cameo too!!

As the party continued, Tormund got more sloshed, and even cried over his longing for Brienne.
GENDRY FREAKING PROPOSED TO ARYA!!!*
Jaime and Brienne sealed the deal that fans have been waiting for since Season 2!!*
Dany pleaded to Jon not to expose the truth about his parents.*
And after a fun night of partying, the battle plans to take the Iron Throne from Cersei were underway!

A Stark meeting was held and Jon learned his sisters do not approve of Daenerys or her plan for war. So what does Jon do? Tells them his secret!
Winterfell:
- Jaime will stay there with Brienne and not go fight Cersei.
- Sir Bronn of the Blackwater arrived, almost killing Jaime and Tyrion …
- So Tyrion offered Bronn Highgarden in order to live.
- Gilly and Samwell have also done the deed … because Gilly is pregnant!
- Sansa opened her big, fat, HUGE mouth, and told Tyrion the truth about Jon, who then turned with his big, fat mouth and told Varys.
WTF! A dragon just died!
A ship just sank!
Missandei is captured!!

And just like that we’re back to what I would consider a traditional Game of Thrones plot: Tyrion and Varys discussing strategy and who should be the true ruler (as much as it pains me, I agree with Varys), Jaime returning to Cersei (we’ll discuss further in a minute), Daenerys back at square one with no army, and a beheading (RIP Missandei!).

Honestly, I’m not surprised the last three episodes are coming down to the battle for the Iron Throne (2019 hashtag anyone?), because this has been the plot all along … since the days of Ned Stark! For those who said Season 8 should be entirely about defeating the dead, and were upset it took place in only one episode, I disagree. The Night King and the White Walkers returning always felt like a subplot to me; the whole show has been nothing but strategy, “rightful rulers”, slaughter, war, death, and Cersei as the ultimate villain (except for the brief moment when she was shame, shame, shamed!), and that is the way the season will (or should) end (I’m assuming).

Let’s talk specifics …

“Arya, will you marry me?”

I won’t discuss this scene in much length, but I do need to mention it. How freaking cute was Gendry??? He was so excited that he became a Lord, he ran to his lady, confessed his love, told her she was beautiful, said he wanted her to be beside him as he ruled, and then proposed! SO SWEET! However, I get it, Arya is not a lady and she never has been. She’s an assassin & all around badass. Plus, GOT is not sweet. So as sad as I am that it didn’t work out, I understand why. Speaking of working out …

Jaime & Brienne (part 2)

After knighting her two weeks ago, to fighting alongside her last week, to ahem, well you know what they did this week, all my hopes and dreams and wishes were coming true for Jaime and Brienne. We all soooo knew once the virgin comment was made by Tyrion during their drinking game, and Brienne stormed off with Jaime following, it was going to happen! And OMG how funny was his “It’s so hot in here” pick up line?! The confident, Kingslayer who takes what he wants from women (okay, mainly his twin sister, barf!) had to use a pick up line in this moment? Regardless, it was sweet. What was even sweeter was he wouldn’t share details about it with Tyrion, plus he wasn’t going to return to Cersei, but rather stay in the North with Brienne.

Until he leaves. However, I’m convinced Jaime is not returning to King’s Landing to be with Cersei, but rather to take her out and redeem himself for being a “bad man.”

(Here is a great article that examines their relationship further: NYPost and a second article that disproves my theory Jaime is off to kill Cersei: Vanity Fair).

Is Daenerys becoming her father?

It really felt that way to me as I watched Sunday’s episode. However, I think that would be too convenient for the writers to do because it seems like they’re already leading her down that path. You could tell this by a) her resentment at Winterfell when all the men were congratulating & boasting about Jon Snow, b) her begging Jon not to tell anyone the truth about his parents because then all would know he’s the true ruler, not her, and c) thinking she could match Cersei with that tiny army and one dragon.

It doesn’t help that Missandei’s blood is on her hands for making rash battle choices when she was warned to give her army a rest. Granted that advice came from Sansa, who Dany seems to despise, but still. Now tides are shifting because Varys is questioning her sanity too; it’s not just the Starks that don’t trust her decision making. Maybe she does go power hungry and burns the world down? Maybe she tries to kill Jon? I have no idea where the plot surrounding Daenerys can lead because I’m sure to be shocked regardless: sane Dany who backs off I don’t expect, but tyrant Dany I don’t expect either. Here’s to finding out in the next two weeks!

“Not Today” GOT Recap 8×3

Posted on May 1, 2019 by myhollywoodhangover

So my usual format on recaps this season has been to highlight the major plot points from each episode, then pick my favorites to discuss a little more in depth. I’m still going to do that (or attempt to do that), but instead of plot points, it’s going to sound more like the thoughts that were running through my head while I watched. Buckle up!

The Red Lady showed up out of the dark (somehow getting past the Army of the Dead, I think?) and lit up the Dothraki’s swords. Visual bad-ass-ness!
However, that light went out quickly as the entire Dothraki civilization was wiped out in a matter of minutes as they ran towards the enemy. Why they went out on their own? I’ll never understand.
Now, not only was I sitting on my couch terrified out of my mind (this isn’t about me, this isn’t about me, this isn’t about me), but it seemed like every remaining fighter and character on the show was just as scared. AND WHY WOULDN’T THEY BE??
Then the battle was on!
They’re screwed.
They’re screwed.
They’re screwed.
Dany and Jon rode dragons.
They’re screwed.
They’re screwed.
They’re screwed.
Dany and Jon rode dragons some more.
The wights got up and over the wall!
Now they’re really screwed.
Totally screwed
So screwed.
Dragon fight!
“Dracarys”
Oh, okay so the Night King can survive dragon fire!
And he “woke up” the fallen …

Now they’re really f***ing screwed!
The final battle scenes with the music in the background? Theon’s death? Jorah’s last moments? I didn’t cry, you did!
HOLY SHIT BALLS ARYA!

Arya

Clearly we need to start here. Before we even get to the amazingness that was her slaying the Night King, we need to discuss her battle scenes. Her twirling and swirling and stab stab stabing was so awesome to watch! It reminded me of how far she’s come from her training with Syrio and then all her training with the Faceless Men. My favorite of it all was when the wights were coming up the steps and Arya jumped on their backs, only to roll down them and run away. Or at least I thought that was my favorite part until she was in the library. Again, I think it was a callback to her training (how to be invisible), but that scene had all the classic feels of a horror movie where the evil is right around the corner and the protagonist is trying to not be seen. Brilliant.

Never, ever, ever in my wildest dreams or wildest theories would I have chosen Arya Stark to be the one to kill the Night King. Oh it was so fabulous too because first she flies out of nowhere, only to have him grab her and have the audience think she’s a goner, but she’s no goner … she’s freaking ARYA STARK and when she catches the dagger in her right hand, slaying the Night King and thus his entire army??? I don’t think I’ve ever cheered for a fictional character more IN MY LIFE than I did in that moment.

RIP

Obviously we knew we would have to say goodbye to some, right? However, if my calculations are correct, the list isn’t very long. It includes …

Lord Commander of the Night’s Watch (according to Google his name is Dolorous Edd in case you were unsure …)
Lyanna Mormont (ughhhh RIP girl, but thanks for taking out the giant!)
Lightening Lord (whose name Google told me is Beric Dondarrion in case you forgot that one too)
Theon Greyjoy (which yes, was so sad, but did anyone really expect him to make it out alive?)
The Red Woman or Melisandre if you will (thanks for the useless fire and for Arya’s pep talk, but overall pffffft! Girl, bye)
Sir Jorah (hit me reeeeeeally hard, even though I did prepare myself for it)
The Night King

I’ve heard a few rumblings that viewers were upset more characters didn’t die. For sure it seemed like those in the thick of the battle should have been overran: Brienne, Jamie, Podrick (seriously, Podrick lived?), Samwell, and Tormund. The way the wights were charging, only then to rise back up from the dead, I don’t think realistically the aforementioned should have survived.

However, realistically dragons don’t exist either, so if in this world, these characters were meant to live, then they’re meant to live; I’m definitely not upset about it. They’re all my favorites. They just better not die in some really pointless way by Cersei’s army after surviving this battle.

Now What

Um, recover? Seriously, next episode I need them to all sit around a campfire and just talk about how lucky they are to be alive. Let Arya brag about her kill. Bury and honor the fallen brothers and sisters. Speaking of the fallen, how are they going to clean up all the bodies? Ugh, what a mess.

The “next time” looked like everyone is getting ready to go fight Cersei, who in my eyes is now the one, true villain of the show (she outlasted the Night King … ). At first I was all, “The North has no army,” but then my husband reminded me they have two dragons. I suppose Dany and Jon also have to sort out who gets to sit on the Throne once Cersei is defeated (if Cersei is defeated? No, no … once Cersei is defeated).

Regardless of what does happen … I hope everyone, including the viewers, get a moment to breathe because this week’s episode (almost) too much to handle!

One last thing …

Were Tyrion and Sansa going to kill themselves or go fight? Also, do I ship them?? Completely!

Rose & Thorn: RHOA Reunion

Posted on April 26, 2019 by myhollywoodhangover

First, let me apologize that this is coming so late in the week when the final part of the reunion was last Sunday. But you know what else airs on Sundays? Game of Freaking Thrones, so that’s been consuming the blog lately! You can catch up if you need to …

“We’re All Going to Die, But At Least We Die Together” GOT Recap 8×2
“You’re the True King” GOT 8×1
Game of Thrones is Back!! … almost

However, we are here to discuss the ladies of Atlanta and mainly the Season 11 reunion. I first thought I’d recap it (but you all watched). Then I thought I’d just share some overall thoughts (but my thoughts were a jumbled mess). Instead I decided to give my rose and thorn of this reunion; I’m curious to see if you all agree!

Reunion Rose: Porsha Williams

First, she was best dressed! Her baby bump brought the entire look together, but those earrings and her hair?? Flaw- less! Two, RHOA has officially become Porsha’s show. If you disagree, how? Take out this season entirely (because she’s a new person this season), and in the past it’s always been Porsha to bring the funny and the fighting.

While the Kenya hair pull is iconic, she’s no longer that woman. This season Porsha was nothing, if not the voice of reason, especially at the reunion. Maybe it was impending motherhood? Maybe it was her sobriety? Maybe it’s her new man and the fact that she’s now truly happy? Whatever it is, I thought she was on the right side of every single argument. I loved how she squashed her beef with Kandi and also stood up to Nene, but did so in a very mature way. “That shit was hurtful,” she said regarding how the women were really trying to be there for Nene this season, yet Nene completely wrote them off as friends.

I’m telling you, Porsha is going to be soon become to face of the Atlanta Housewives!

Reunion Thorn: Nene Leakes

I’m going to try very hard to not turn this into one big rant against Nene, but it’s going to be tough.

“I’m the real G!”

“Kandi’s not important”

And something else about how hard some women have to work to keep their peaches. At this point, Nene has reached OG crazy level where she thinks the entire show 100% revolves around her and wouldn’t be able to continue without her. LVP has shown this attitude for years, by never apologizing or never admitting when she’s wrong. Vicki proves this each season when she’s terrible to the new girls and always refers to RHOC as “her show.” Teresa was over the top about it on the last Jersey reunion, completely shunning Melissa for not taking her side and stating that any woman no longer on the show was because of her, meaning Teresa had a say in their departures.

Being an original cast member does not maketh the entire show ladies. Nene had SUCH a smug look on her face the whole reunion that at one point even Andy asked her, “What’s wrong?” in an extremely fed up tone.

I get she’s under an unimaginable amount of pressure because of her husband’s cancer, plus she feels very betrayed by her close friends (or friend* … Cynthia), buuuuut none of that gives her the right to think she’s better than anyone else on the show or to sit smugly on the couch for the entire three part, all day, reunion.

Closing Thoughts …

If you think I chose these two ladies as my rose and thorn because they got the seats next to Andy, you’re wrong. But, obviously I’m completely in tune with Bravo.

I was very proud of Cynthia for standing her ground against Nene because she rarely does stand up for herself. It was so dumb that the last five minutes of the entire season was a majority of the basis for the reunion, but whateverrrrrrrrrrrrrrr. In fact, out in the Twittersville, rumor is Kenya is going to come back, which means Cynthia has an ally now going into next season and going up against Nene. #TeamKenthia all the way!

And finally, the shady boot definitely needs to go to Mr. Andy Cohen. I wish I would have written down some of the questions he asked as I watched, but it seemed like if one housewife was discussing an issue with another housewife, he immediately went to that person to get their thoughts, but he always worded it to sound … not the most genuine! Buuuut, according to him …

… and he gets better and better at it each reunion!

“We’re All Going to Die, But At Least We Die Together” GOT Recap 8×2

Posted on April 23, 2019 by myhollywoodhangover

I thought that last week’s premier would be one of my favorites this season, but this week’s is looking to be my favorite Game of Thrones episode of all time! I mean, Brienne being knighted by Sir Jamie? Arya and Gendry? Before we get to that, here were the main plot points:

The opening scene had Jamie coming before those in charge at Winterfell, with a promise to fight the dead, while Daenerys narrated the terrible things he’d done against her family. Tyrion attempted to vouch for him, but ultimately, Brienne of Tarth convinced them all to allow Jamie to stay.*
Arya and Gendry flirted.
Jamie apologized to Bran; Bran reminded us he’s still an angsty teen.*
Tyrion and Jamie reunited.*
Brienne and Jamie reunited.*
Daenerys and Sansa attempted to have a sisterly moment, until Sansa reminded her, “What about the North?”
Theon returned.
Tormand and the others returned.
All the main players started to strategize battle plans; Bran said the Night King would come for him mostly and wants to be used as bait.
Tyrion and Bran seemed to have a bonding moment.
Jamie and Tyrion discussed the last time they were at Winterfell (Episode 1×1) and that now they will most likely die there; many others came to join their discussion circle.
Tormand told his “giant’s milk story.”
Arya reunited with the Hound.
ARYA AND GENDRY had s-e-x!!!!!*
Tyrion recounted the most famous battles everyone lived through; Sir Jamie knighted Brienne; Podrick sang.*
Jon told Dany the truth about his past.
and all of this was without a single Cersei scene!!

The return of Jamie Lannister

I freaking love Jamie Lannister and I love him most this season because he left Cersei behind and stared dreamily at Brienne, which gives me hope for them to be together in the end (even though I believe his dreamy looks are more so out of admiration love than lusty love). Let’s dive a little deeper into all the Jamieness this episode.

First Dany needs to cut him a break. Sure, he murdered her father, but it’s only because the Mad King was going to burn King’s Landing to the ground. Jamie even admits he was defending his home and his family, so why stay so angry with him?

I loved seeing him and Tyrion back together (even though I don’t reeeeeally think Tyrion is his brother, but I’ll save that theory for later). I loved his interaction with Bran, especially the fact that Jamie apologized, admitted he’s changed, and appeared to have an actual discussion with Bran. Most people these days who talk to Bran just get his moody vagueness.

Lastly, how sweet was it that Jamie not only knighted Brienne, but also said he wanted to serve under her command during the battle against the White Walkers?? Her tears were all of our tears and Tormand’s smile was all of our smiles as we watched this lovely moment when Jamie showed Brienne of Tarth the respect she utmost deserves.

Arya and Gendry

On the one hand, I totally want to be like, “Get it Arya girl!” I mean, we’ve watched her and Gendry awkwardly flirt for two episodes now, plus felt some sort of connection between the two back in Season 1 when they first met (even if it was only a friendship connection then). Also, Gendry is looking damn fine these days (what am I saying; he’s always been pretty fine).

On the other hand (which much of Twitter agreed), to us Arya will always be like what, twelve? I can totally see how this intimate scene was more awkwardsville for fans than most GOT sex scenes. In fact, it might have been the most cringe worthy of them all (even if we did want it to happen).

Overall thoughts on the episode …
too many reunions?

Game of Thrones can never seem to win with their fans, right? Last season, people were upset because the action was moving too fast (like Gendry really made it back to Daenerys in time, only for her to arrive with the dragons in time, before everyone all froze to death?? Suuure …) and yet now fans are complaining that the first two episodes of Season 8 have had zero action.

I, however, am in the minority on this. If you read my post last week over GOT, you would know I prefer a little more conversation, a little less action. In fact, I am living for all these reunions that remind us fans everything we’ve endured and everything these characters have endured the past eight seasons. Like, what is wrong with reminiscing a bit? Also, don’t tell me this episode was some sort of closure or goodbye to everyone because they’re all going to die in the battle against the dead. How could that happen when we still have three more episodes after the fight to end all fights? Logistically, everyone can’t die if there are still three more episodes to go, but also the fight can’t last for 320 minutes. Guess we’ll just have to wait and see … for which I couldn’t be more excited! (And scared.)

“You’re the True King” GOT 8×1

Posted on April 16, 2019 by myhollywoodhangover

Game of Thrones is baaaaaaaack and I couldn’t be happier, or more basic about it! Seriously I saw so many tweets over the weekend about how obsessed we all are with this show …

… yet, it’s fun to be part of the cult following. It’s fun to discuss with others, and it’s fun to blog about, so here we are! My recaps of season 7 were mostly my list of emotions felt during each episode (as told through emojis). This season I think I’m going to simply list off the major plot points, then pick a few to discuss in depth! So let’s get started!

Major plot points of the premier:

Jon Snow, Daenerys Targaryen, the Dothraki & the Unsullied arrived in Winterfell, to a much unwelcoming Northern people.

(But Dany looked bomb in that white & maroon coat, though!)

Theon saved his sister.
Sansa gave Daenerys stink face.
Cersei consummated her relationship with the grossest of gross Greyjoy, after he arrived with the Iron Bank’s army.
Jon Snow rode a dragon.*
Jon and Dany kissed.
Jon and Arya reunited.
Bronn was summoned by Cersei to kill her two brothers.
Sam found out Dany killed his father and brother.

The face you make when you find out your best friend’s girl had her dragons roast your father & brother.
Sam told Jon the truth about his biological parents.*
The Night King left some weird, bloody, foot, spiral “message” that I don’t understand, but you can read more about here.
- Sidebar: Does the Night King have a brain? He has to right? I mean he obviously has rational thought to have the idea to spear a dragon, thus giving him an ice dragon; now this message? Do just the White Walkers have thought, and the wights don’t?
Jamie arrived in Winterfell & realized Bran is alive … or did he already know he was alive, they were just having a massive stare down (which Bran did with everyone in this episode for some reason??) …. ??

Further discussions:

Jon Snow riding a dragon.

We all knew it was coming; we saw the dragons warming up to Jon after we learned he’s half Targaryen. The fact that he only rode the dragon to go off and have a secret rom com moment with Daenerys makes it better (or possibly worse). Was it all a bit cheesy? Totes. Was it what we were all waiting for? Hells ya.

Jon Snow finding out the truth about his biological parents.

I was really shocked that Jon found out so soon (episode 1) that Dany is his aunt, I mean, that he’s the true heir to the Iron Throne. I thought for a moment he was going to hurt sweet Samwell based off his reaction. Think he was more upset that he has to end his relationship, or that he’s the true king … probably that he’s the true king, but who knows for sure; Jon Snow can be so sulky sometimes. However, rather than waiting this season to see when it would be revealed, I’m glad we can all look forward to how it will play out.

and one last thing …

Finally, can we talk for a moment about how horrible the Northerners were treating Dany’s army, and Dany herself?

I get it, I get it, you named someone King and he basically said, “Screw you” by bending the knee to an outsider … a female outsider from the deep south. But why can’t they just realize she’s basically there to save their butts from the ice army of the dead? Be grateful!!!