kristenmuir

Series Review as a whole

This is the series I have been begging for, we have so many repeated storylines in verticals, and sure I have seen similar before but this series is one that the vertical space has desperately needed, a new take on the Billionaire CEO romance and a desperate love interest just trying to save her family member. From episodes 1&2 where the wine spill is used as an attempt at a "meet cute" only to be thwarted by Ethan basically saying he has seen it before, (haven't we all in sooo many verticals!) and telling her she doesn't have to dry clean - I laughed so hard at this (I am glad the male leads are catching on to this plan ;)). Throughout the series, you will laugh, get goosebumps, have your heartbroken for the leads, feel angry and happy all in a total of 56 episodes and a run time of 1 hour and 35 minutes (ish).

The push and pull of the relationship between Emma & Ethan was outstanding, both trying to play each other, both obviously failing miserably, but alas we get our love story! I love the way these to characters were written and that it wasn't as simple as billionaire sees girl billionaire sleeps with girl, girl and billionaire fall in love against all odds, and I have to say I think one of my favourite scenes was just the pizza party right at the end! This series has some amazing comedic scenes, whether it is Ethan (quite creepily) helping Emma out, then running away, or him panic running to the florist because he doesn't want her to think he is another f-boy and who can forget the iconic towel scene!

I also just have to add that the painting in Ethan's house being used as a plot point throughout the series, but leaving the viewer guessing its importance right until the end. I really loved this series, and I highly suggest you all updating your drama box subscription just to watch this one! It has been already called 2025's answer to "You Belong With Me" and they're not wrong!

The Cast

What a fantastic cast! The reunion of the Brando brothers, Aria Capone, and Luca Nere from "I'm The Rule" and the addition of Kyra what isn't to love! Not to mention all the amazing new faces we get on this set, the entire cast were all perfectly suited to their roles and gave an outstanding performance.

The chemistry between Eric & Kyra was off the charts throughout the entire series and these two as a duo are a force to be reckoned with when paired together, it makes sense now why D'Mitry said he couldn't see anyone else in these roles! And despite my brain making me laugh at scenes that were supposed to be serious, which honestly I blame Eric & Kyra for because they added in the names of other shows they've been in, I have watched 3 times and only managed to catch "The secret I can't Escape - a play on TSSCE - and Boss, Behave!, these two were without a doubt the perfect casting choice for the leads.

The relationships between certain characters were excellent, however, I wanted a more in-depth reason behind Derricks hatred for Ethan, and why Becky choses to do what she does! But, with only 56 episodes I understand certain aspects had to be left out and can appreciate the choices that were made to be included.

I also have to point out the amount of BTS content we received while this was being filmed, with my personal favourite being the wicked tiktoks/instagram stories featuring Kristine & Kyra vs. John* & Eric. - both of which I cannot find online anymore - Kyra if you would care to re-upload I am sure we will all be grateful!!! I loved being able to see this cast interact and act up while trying to film this project!

Finally, I loved that some of the production team stepped in for minor roles for this series, getting to spot some of the awesome team at Purple Light as part of the cast was so much fun!!

The Team and Production

Everything Purple Light touches turns to gold. And that is not an understatement, I have said it before but in previous reviews but their cinematography, sets, and overall production value is one of the best in the business of verticals and they truly are one of my favourite production houses! D'Mitry and his team know what works and focus on achieving that, you just know you are getting quality from this team!

For a moment I need to focus on the cinematography of this series, with one of the most heart breaking moments in the series, the "WE ARE DONE" moment, the individual view points of the scene only sought to escalate the raw emotion within the viewer as they are so close, but yet so far from each other and setup for Ethan in that scene as an emotional wreck on the floor, while Kyra is begging on the other side of the door, it damn near broke me. Also I would really like to live in Ethans house please and thank you!

In relation to sets and set design, I loved that this looked to be an ACTUAL office building, however, I do have some issues I would like to raise with Mr Sterling later in relation to workstation set up for his staff!! But the use of numerous extras to create that full office environment, the conference room, right through to Ethans house and even the initial meeting at the restaurant every scene felt complete and not completely under-filled (as happens so often in verticals due to the cost of background actors!)

Finally hair, makeup and costume - FANTASTIC WORK, I loved that Ethans character wasn't in a suit the entire time, that he wore more casual clothing to the office and dressed up for events, Emmas character always looked immaculate, but it wasn't just the leads, every single person on screen looked perfectly dressed for the situation whether it was the office or an event!! Amazing work to the entire production team on this one!!

Leads

Kyra Wisley

Kyra Wisley as Emma Clarke gave what I think is her best performance I have seen so far. This character allowed Kyra to tap into a multitude of her outstanding abilities, and really shine through. I was left feeling hopeless and concerned while watching her breakdown from claustrophobia and giggling at her cheek when trying to manipulate Ethan. I felt like Kyra really had fun with this role and took the character to the next level.

The pain and heartbreak on her face during the challenging moments of this series, really do leave the viewer feeling heartbroken for Emma and watching her tears fall down made me want to jump through my screen and give her a big cuddle and be the friend she needed at that very moment, thankfully she had Maggie to help!

The resilience of this character is outstanding also, to not only have been cast aside by her family her whole life due to their need to care for her sister, her then taking on the role of caring for said sister, only to be betrayed by her also! But, Emma as a character also has to face endless taunts and bullying during the main conflict of this story, and she has to do it alone - with no PR team (I am looking at you Ethan!!) and the hurt on Kyras face during these scenes is exactly what you would expect from someone going through this! As I said earlier, this is my favourite character Kyra has played and what I believe is her best performance to date! Congratulations Kyra!!

Eric Guilmette

Henry Lockwood is so 2024, the new heart throb billionaire CEO in town is Ethan Sterling and Eric Guilmette of course was the ideal choice for this role. Eric can play any male lead and manages to fit the role seamlessly. As Ethan Sterling, Eric managed to encapsulate the progression of emotions of a man falling in love, with little dialogue but so much emotion demonstrated through body language and facial expression alone. Watching his portrayal of this character felt like watching a seasoned Hollywood actor who has been in the business for 20 years, which is a true testament to his extraordinary ability.

This character also allowed the viewer to see Eric's harsher side, and he was great with some awesome one liners included. I loved that this character allowed the viewer to see Eric completely in his element as the ultimate CEO who protects the one he loves, even if Ethan has some weird methods of doing so!

This is by far the best vertical I have seen Eric in a long time, being able to utilise his talent in ways that truly allowed him to stand out! I thoroughly enjoyed this portrayal and from interviews/lives we know Eric is truly at his best when working with Purple Light! I cannot wait to see what kind of love, and potentially bloody concoction the put together for us next! Outstanding work Eric you should be truly proud of yourself.

The Supporting Cast

"John Lane" *Requested to not use real name - Derrick Sterling

"John" has cemented himself, for me at least as one of the best villains in the game, watching his portrayal of Derrick Sterling was truly joyful and a little unnerving. "John" knows how to utilise voice inflections to expertly get his point across. But what I love the most about this character was how he used quiet tones and "compassionate" expressions to manipulate those around him. "John" is another outstanding actor who is a joy to watch!

Kristine Larson - Christina Young

Kristine Larson as Christina Young, Ethan Sterlings Executive Secretary, who has been in love with Ethan all along, trying to fend off any woman who gets close to him. Kristine was, as always fantastic in this series, Kristine is one of the few actors you can thoroughly enjoy as either a villainess or the leading love interest. I loved the use of the side glare and exaggerated screaming to really drive home her frustration in this series. Another fantastic performance Kristine!

Jade Edge - Becky Clarke

Jade Edge as Becky Clarke, welcome to the vertrasphere Jade! You have entered with a bang! I was shocked to hear Jade's American accent knowing she is British (thank you instagram live!), Jade was phenomenal in her role was Emma's sister, I loved her ability to seamlessly transition to the helpless sick sister through to another.

First and foremost can we have a standing ovation for Hunter Deng as this was the first vertical series he has directed and is, as I will say a few times, the best vertical series I have seen to date.

Returning to New York after leaving abruptly 7 years ago, Zoe Lopez (Anna DeRusso) is shocked when she immediately runs into her ex fiancé, Alex Blackwood (Jeff Violette) at an art gallery. Leaning on her friends, Lukas Anderson (Tate Doppler) and Elle (Carrie Terraccino), Zoe has been raising Alex and her son Casey (Aris James True). Having left without a word, due to Alex's father, Henry (Ashton Wolf), revealing to her that Alex is actually an Alpha Werewolf and that she does not belong in their world days after she had accepted Alex's proposal. Alex has spent the last 7 years searching for her, all while his father and mother, Beatrice (Maude Bonanni), have been trying to set up an arranged marriage with Sabrina Huntington (Jennylyn Caterina). So what happens when 7 years of distance has not dulled the love Zoe and Alex hold for each other? With Lukas vying for Zoe's heart and Sabrina vying for Alex's, can these two really make it work? Can they overcome the patriarchal domineering and demanding man that is Alex's father? And how will Alex feel when he learns the truth of Casey's identity?

This series has it all, and so much more. I cannot articulate accurately in one post just how fantastic this series is (that is why I broke this down into 3 posts for my instagram page!)

As a whole, this series hits every single mark, giving each character a multi-layered complex storyline that allows the viewer to understand just why each decision was made. The typical "villain" trait of being evil for the sake of being evil is thrown out the window. Enabling you to understand motivations behind actions and empathise with the antagonists.

The relationships established in this series also have a depth I have not seen in another vertical series before, with utilisation of flashbacks to give the viewer a full understanding of each relationship in the series. Of course, the main relationship in question is the one between Zoe and Alex, however, there is depth given to each and every grouping - with beautiful friendships, strained family dynamics, unrequited love, love that can only be described as written in the stars and of course parent/child love and protection.

The fact this is a werewolf series is almost a subplot to the entire storyline, which I truly appreciated - it was not all about alpha/beta/gamma/omega dynamics and brought the werewolf world into the human world. There was no need for growling or overuse of the titles given in a pack, but it was there and was given the perfect amount of screen time in this series.

I also have to call out 3 more things that were standouts for me in this series.

1. The way the arguments weren't based in anger but in fear and deep emotion 2. The transformation from wolf back to human form in the fight scene - I have never seen this done better in the vertical space 3. The storyline, it is unlike anything we have seen before, I cannot find a single fault in it.

Anna DeRusso as Zoe Lopez, Anna is a star in her own right, with a remarkable filmography thus far, however, as Zoe Lopez Anna managed to capture the very essence of the character, truly demonstrating just how spectacular of an actress she is. The tears welling up in her eyes as she speaks, the distant stares demonstrated in moments of reflection and sadness, the shake in her vocal-chords as she would become angry, hurt, scared, or sad. Every expression was perfectly timed, every line exquisitely delivered - Anna allowed the viewer to put themselves in her shoes and feel with her, that is a testament to her!

Jeff Violette as Alexander Blackwood, Jeff has come so far in such a short time, everyone needs to be reminded this man has a degree in construction management, gave up his comfortable life and stability to chase a dream and look at him now. This is Jeffs best performance, this is his best character. Every single aspect of this performance was delivered perfectly, the inflections in his voice, the furrow between his brow, the expressions on his face, the body language - I could go on. His portrayal of Alexander with outstanding, and I believe we have a new Alpha King in our presence. Jeff is going to go so far in his career and we are truly so lucky to be watching him flourish as an actor.

Tate Doppler as Lukas Anderson, firstly can someone please give Tate a lead role where he gets the girl! Tate is unbelievably good in this series, playing the caring best friend and stand-in father figure, he doesn't miss a beat, even though this was a supporting role, his performance left me wanting more of Lukas' character and to see where his life takes him! Fantastic work as always from Tate and as I said, someone please give him a lead role!

Jennylyn Caterina as Sabrina Huntington, OMG this girl, having to play an antagonist when you have the sweetest face and delivering a performance this good is truly remarkable! Jennylyn gave Sabrina dimension and allowed you to feel empathy and sorrow for, what is supposed to be the lead villain role, which is not easily achievable. Taking away from the script and focusing in solely on her performance, Jennylyn's performance was outstanding utilising her skills to really drive home the understanding that this is just a woman in love with her protector and saviour.

Other Special mentions in casting: Arie James True as Casey, Carrie Terraccino as Elle, Ben Whalen as Mason, Ashton Wolf as Henry, and Adam Chisnall as Mr Davis all gave stellar performances in their supporting roles no matter how big, the casting in this series was fantastic and every actor gave 110% making this series even better.

The use of lighting and weather to reflect the emotions of the characters was a stroke of genius in this series, with darkness and rain right at the beginning of the series when our 2 leads meet outside the bar (I will come back to this) right through to the final episode where you have what can only be described as golden hour lighting casting across the faces of the actors as the storyline resolves. Again we see scenes of Alexander emerging from the darkness into the light, almost as if a parallel to his realisation of Casey's true identity. And finally, although I could rant about this all day, the fight scene lighting, unequaled in the vertical space, with the mood set for a battle before anything even occurs - truly outstanding in every single episode of this series.

Quickly jumping back to the scene out the front of the bar, the two standing out the front facing away from each other in the pouring rain with a red and a black umbrella, I cannot put into words how this scene made me feel - the rain falling around them like the emotions they were holding back in that moment only to collide together in a burst of passion. Truly remarkably shot and production/post production did an outstanding job here.

Special effects - THE WOLVES LOOKED LIKE REAL WOLVES NOT CGI - I could cry with how happy this made me! The specs of werewolf given to the view through this series climax in the fight scene, but each special effect given, whether it is the glowing eyes or the parental link between Alexander and Casey, everything is done in such a way you don't feel taken out of the moment because of cheap special effects - allowing the viewer to remain completely immersed in the series.

Soundtrack - again, every time the soundtrack is played in this series, it is expertly timed and THE CORRECT VOLUME, the song choices, while yes have been heard in a vertical before still add to the value of the series and are not an afterthought to the series.

Choreography - THE FIGHT SCENE CHOREOGRAPHY WAS THE BEST FIGHT SCENE IN A VERTICAL, that coupled with the hint of the "spicy" scenes without needing to be overtly explicit in nature. Every scene was perfectly staged and gave the actors a jumping off platform to deliver their outstanding performances.

Congratulations to the entire production/post production crew on this series.

This series has raised the bar in the vertical space with production, performance, and storyline - this is the best vertical I have seen to date and therefore I cannot in good faith give it a simple 10/10, so as if this is *insert country of choice*'s got talent - I am pressing the gold buzzer, straight through to the top. I know the verties voting for 2024 has just closed, but this may very well be the strongest contender for vertical of the year 2025, couple of the year 2025, and King and Queen vertical Legends 2025. Every single star in this series should be nominated for academy awards, alas they may have to settle for verties next year.

Childhood best friends and neighbours, Skylar Heron (Cayla Brady) and Jamie Donner (Christopher Quartuccio), have gone separate ways in life, but when Jamies ex-girlfriend Tiffany Ryland (Vanessa Von Schwarz) finds Jamie as Skylar's lock screen she loses her mind, only for Jamie to come to the rescue. When Jamies house become inhabitable due to a fire, he becomes Skylar's roommate, and it's like no time has passed between them, well except Jamie is now the quarterback, and Skylar's feelings for Jamie have landed her with a target on her back. With the help of some new friends, Macy Sherwood (Cle'era Hollingsworth) and Elijah Townsend (Evan Brown), and some old ones too Addie (Natalia Montgomery Fernandez) and Jamie, Skylar finds herself more popular than ever and in the running for snow queen, but Tiffany definitely has other plans..

Cayla Brady expertly plays the role of the awkward, nerdy high-school girl just trying to get through the year as well as the confident, kind and beautiful Skylar we see by the end of the film, I loved the way she portrayed this character, from using her body language to demonstrate the awkward shy side and slowly her shoulders go back as the series goes on and Skylar gains confidence, even down to the awkward run she does away from Jamie at the start of the film everything was perfect.

Christopher Quartuccio is outstanding in this role, I believe this was only his third vertical and let me tell you this boy entered the vetrasphere with a BANG, his portrayal of Jamie was fantastic, and felt as though he was a seasoned professional with 15 years of acting in leading roles under his belt! I cannot believe how talented this man is and I hope we get to see a lot more of him, before he makes it big in Hollywood (because let me tell you he will!)

This is how a great vertical is made, and this one is one of the BEST I have seen ever on ReelShort and with MFMN is the best they have put out in the last 4 months.