A Plan With The Fans

 


Solar Opposites, a Hulu original created by the minds behind Rick and Morty, offers a fresh take on animated storytelling. In the Pilot episode “The Matter Transfer Array” the show displays an episodic and A plot, B plot storyline comprised of humor while solving social and environmental issues with alien technology to various degrees of failure and success. However, the unique decision to release the entire first season at once prompts a reevaluation of what constitutes a pilot episode. What if the first season itself serves as a pilot that builds and adapts to fan reactions? This intriguing concept is exemplified by The Wall, a hidden plotline that develops throughout the series, captivating viewers and ultimately defining the show's identity.

At the end of the “The Matter Transfer Array” viewers see that Yumyulack has shrunken the school Janitor and places him in a giant terrarium. This giant glass enclosure comes to be known as “The Wall” is only shown and given no importance in this episode. The next glimpse of this C plot comes when Tim who becomes this arc’s first protagonist is introduced into “The Wall” for offending Yumyulack by wearing a red t-shirt, this is a quick introduction showing that more human adults have been added, and that a sort of post-apocalyptic society has developed. With the introduction of Cherie and the Duke in the next dive into this plot we start to see the unrest and the building of the serial storyline. But it is the first season’s seventh episode named “Terry and Korvo Steal a Bear” that places the C plot front and center. It steals the show from Terry and Korvo in a sense, makes Tim and Cherie the protagonist in a bid to stop the Duke who rules with an iron fist. We are shown what life in the wall is like, plot hooks are dropped, characters are developed, the entire time while the Shlorpian are in the background as quiet backdrops.

In an interview before the show’s Hulu release, SYFY Wire’s Josh Weiss was told by show creator Justin Roland, “We had always loved the idea of slowly putting the Wall stuff and having a story developing in the background of the show. Like a C story in one episode, maybe a B story. And then we loved the idea that eventually, we build to a full-on complete episode in the Wall.” (Weiss). This idea was only possible because of the shows all in one release which streaming services have introduced. The creators wanted the show released in one go, to draw in viewers get them hooked. Mike McMahan the co-creator relieved “Even in our pitch, we were like, “This has to all drop at once. We need people to be able to watch the whole thing at once, so we get to guide them on this unexpected journey.” (Weiss). The Wall becomes an experiment and the entire first season of Solar Opposites can be argued to be the show’s pilot from this perspective.

Television is a complicated product, building a show, creating a flow and idea, shaping a story and finally reaching success because the audience accepts it. The final part of this puzzle is the most difficult and confusing part for many a showrunner. When Roland and McMahan created Solar Opposites they needed to create something that built of their Rick and Morty audience without creating a duplicate. Many early complaints about Solar Opposites initially was that its episodic flow seemed like Roland’s and McMahan’s pervious hit. But the concepts and ideas introduced during the show’s release and their acceptance and increased demand by fans of this serial side have allowed the show to build its own identity. But how much say can fans have on a show? Even before the internet era fans had some pull-on TV, the Transformer’s series of 1984, which killed of one of its beloved characters Optimus Prime, brought him back after a mass letter write-in campaign by unhappy fan and a lower ratings third season (Seibold). Decisions shows make, often take fans comments and ideas into consideration, especially in this internet and social media era where communication can be almost instantaneous.

The Wall become an essential A, B or C serial plot of Solar Opposites now well into its 6th season, with the creator’s initial release idea of using the first season as a “Pilot” to the acceptance of the fans and their demand of more, has helped the show grow to what it is now. The show continues to build on these ideas and moves between its episodic and serial elements. The aliens are still there, and they bring hijinks and mayhem, but many watch for the human element, that breakdown of society and how people learn to grow even when tiny. Solar Opposites has moved away from Rick and Morty becoming its own thing and genre, it’s a nice success story and even with the initial creators leaving the show continues to draw in fans and move forward on its own merits.

                                                        Works Cited

 Seibold, Witney. Transformers Had To Revive Optimus Prime For The Sake Of Some Very Unhappy Kids. 11 September 2023. 10 November 2024. 

Weiss, Josh. Solar opposites Creators Break Down Those Unexpected Wall-Based Hijinks in Episode 7. 10 May 2020. 10 11 2024.

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(Credits: Scribe/Social Media Manger: Brody Bush ; Writer: Manuel Alvarez; Photo/Video Editor: Charles Tucker ; Producer: Hunter Degioanni)

“Striving Through the Struggle: The Art of Character Development in The Bear”

The Bear is a culinary drama that transcends the kitchen, delving into the complexities of human relationships and personal growth. At its core, the series is a study of character development, as each individual undergoes a transformation shaped by their interactions with one another.

Carmy Berzatto, the central figure, is a talented but troubled chef who returns to his family's sandwich shop after a tragic loss. Initially, Carmy is a solitary and demanding figure, driven by a relentless pursuit of perfection. However, as the series progresses, we witness a gradual shift in his demeanor. He learns to communicate more effectively, to delegate tasks, and to express gratitude. His transformation is not solely internal, but is also influenced by his relationships with the other characters.

Sydney, Carmy's talented pastry chef, is initially portrayed as a quiet and somewhat timid figure. Yet, she quickly emerges as a confident and assertive leader, her culinary skills and business acumen growing with each season. Her bond with Carmy deepens, leading to a complex and dynamic relationship.

Richie, the chaotic and comedic force of nature, undergoes a surprising transformation. Beneath his bravado and comedic antics, he reveals a deep-seated vulnerability and a desire for connection. His loyalty to Carmy and the restaurant is unwavering, even as he grapples with personal demons.

Marcus, a skilled pastry chef with a gentle demeanor, embarks on a journey of self-discovery. He travels to Copenhagen, where he learns to embrace his creativity and confidence. His return to Chicago marks a new chapter in his life, both personally and professionally.

Tina, the seasoned veteran of the kitchen, is a pillar of strength and wisdom. She provides guidance and support to the younger chefs, particularly Carmy, who often seeks her advice. Her unwavering loyalty and dedication to the restaurant are inspiring.

Sugar, the youngest member of the team, brings youthful energy and enthusiasm to the kitchen. While initially portrayed as somewhat naive, she quickly proves herself to be a capable and resourceful cook. Her relationship with Carmy evolves from a mentor-mentee dynamic to a genuine friendship.

Through their shared experiences, these characters learn to communicate more effectively, to empathize with one another, and to support each other through challenges. The Bear is a testament to the power of human connection and the transformative nature of growth and as the video progresses you can clearly see that improvement within the characters of this series. The show demonstrates that even the most flawed individuals can evolve and become better versions of themselves.  

https://tamucc-my.sharepoint.com/:v:/g/personal/kvillarreal18_islander_tamucc_edu/EXy4-RT5z6FJpvVmSfqrYVIBVuBAMNbtY-3xfKhTFR2w0A?email=Ethan.Thompson%40tamucc.edu&e=EhUx7e

[Blog Producer: Sam Kunkle Social Media Manager: Rebecca Corpus Photo Editor: Robert Barrera Scribe: Abigail Newman Writer: Kaitlyn Villarreal]

Seeing the light on the Reservation

 

A figure walks down from a dark hallway, lit only by the natural sunlight emerging the room of a dying grandmother. The white noise of flowing conversation grows louder as the silhouette steps into the light, revealing Elora Danan Postoak. The camera pans away from her melancholic face towards the ones gathering for the pre-mortem wake. Old friends shake hands while the matriarchs pound dough and the little ones chase after one another throughout the house. Everyone is auntie, brother, uncle, cousin, and sister regardless of blood. What is ordinarily an empty house, is now a home full of love. The camera pans back to Elora just as she is scanning the crowd. She then picks up her chair and joins the room. In this very scene, we see a whole group of natives come together in their time of despair, akin to Elora’s, as her grandmother is her last living relative.

 

This is one of many examples in Reservation Dogs that relate to community, loss, and growing up within Native American culture. We will discuss these themes through examples from throughout the seasons and details that accurately reflect Native American culture. These themes are depicted across the three generations represented in the show, as a select few characters die, leaving the others to cope with the grief.

 

The first example of this is the case of Daniel. Throughout the first two seasons, the Rez Dogs grapple with the anguishing fact that their best friend took his own life without regard to how he left them behind. We see multiple moments in which someone is either grieving or remembering Daniel. In season 1, episode 6, “Hunting,” Willie Jack, and Leon reminisce about their old hunting trips with him. In season 2, episode 3, “Roofing,” Daniel’s father and the main character, Bear, have a heart-to-heart about their mistakes and traditional Native teachings before seeing what they suspect is Daniel’s spirit orb. Scenes like this build up until the finale of season 2, “I Still Believe,” where the group takes one final step to let go of their heartache. The scene opens on the beach with Cheese finishing his prayer: “We’ll remember you for all the good things we’ve done together.” The waves crash onto the shore while they all stand side by side. Tears are visible on all their faces as they walk toward the sea. A melody and a hum play as they scream at the cold water. They embrace again as Daniel’s spirit appears in the group hug. One by one, they all look at him with warm smiles. In that moment, they have no car, no food, and no money—but what matters is that they did this for him.

 

A similar scene occurs with the generation that came before the dogs in Reservation Dogs Season 2, Episode 7. Rita, Bear’s mother, begins to see the spirit of Cookie, Elora’s mother. Inspired by her son, Rita finds a way to say goodbye to Cookie as well. She gathers her sisters and a memento in the form of Cookie’s mixtape from their childhood, then heads down to the lake. After saying a few words in her honor, they toss the tape into the lake, bidding "Aho" to their late friend, hopefully believing they will see her "in the next life."

 

Next, we move beyond the generations to focus on the period of early colonization, where the story of the Deer Lady in Season 3, Episode 3 takes center stage. The Deer Lady is a Native American legend said to be a woman with hooves, created to punish bad men. In this depiction, she is originally a native girl who grew up during the early period of colonization. She is taken from her village and placed in a Christian boarding school with other native children. There, she connects with a boy who helps her navigate her terrifying new surroundings. One night, this boy is killed by the man who kidnapped the native children—the same man who is described as a "human wolf." That is also the night she transforms into the Deer Lady. In the present day, the Deer Lady comes for the man in his old age. The scene is emotionally charged as the Deer Lady stabs him, tears streaming down her face.

Reflection on these scenes reveals an ongoing theme of death and healing, where the generations are letting go of their pain while still keeping the memories alive with the help of those around them. The repetition of similar themes across different generations reinforces the idea that death is a universal experience that everyone must face—whether it is their own or that of a loved one. The fact that an ancient being can experience these same emotions through a different outlet further emphasizes that death is an inseparable part of life. But throughout this pain is a greater emotion-love.

The series finale, Dig, ends much like the scene at the beginning of this essay. It is the funeral of the

medicine man and the community come together in the face of yet another loss. They dig his grave and crack jokes about not bringing enough shovels; they cook greasy fry bread and reminisce with nostalgia. They say goodbye as they lay him to rest. It is another day full of sorrow and hope. And then, life goes on. Elora moves out of Okern to attend college, Rita moves to another state for a job, Cheese stays with his grandma while finishing high school, and Bear takes a year off to find himself in his hometown.

[Blog Producer & Social Media Manager: Corey Landa, Photo Editor: Than Cheng, Scribe: Lucien Zuniga, Writer: Denise Epsinola]

Why Abbott Elementary’s Approach to Repetition and Realism Keeps Us Watching

Repetition with difference is a strategy that Abbott Elementary utilizes to keep fans entertained and coming back for more. The main theme of repetition across seasons is the natural conflict that Abbott Elementary faces as a poorly funded school in a low-income area.

In the first season the show introduces us to an array of characters with very different personalities, personal conflicts, and strategies for teaching kids with limited resources. In season one, episode nine we learn about the health of Ava’s grandma. The show seems to be following the common theme of Ava being an irresponsible principal, skipping out on her duties again. We discover that Ava is the main character for her grandma with dementia, and immediately this common repetition comes to a screeching halt. We now peel back this empathetic and caring side of Ava that we haven’t seen before. The viewer (and Janine) are caught in the all too familiar pattern of judging Ava for her continuous way of being irresponsible and poor at her job. Instead we see Ava as a reliable caretaker. Janine is forced to swallow her pride and apologize to Ava for misjudging her. It was a powerful shift from the normal Ava shenanigans. This is a moment for fans to have some empathy and compassion for Ava, which is out of the normal narrative of how the viewer would see her. 

Gregory is a slow burn character. It seems like we learn more and more about him as time goes on, you don’t get to figure him out right away. In season one, episode eighteen we see a glimpse of Gregory’s personal life. A facetime with his father, showing how his dad views his career as “not a real job.” At this point we have learned that Gregory has a sweet side that deeply cares for his students and the well-being of Abbott. In fact it seems like this is what he admires the most about Janine, her love for the kids. Another
plotline that has repetition but also grows overtime is their friends-to-lovers trope. We often see these dramatic moments followed by a comedic moment to make everything a little less serious. In season two, episode twelve the conflict with Gregory’s father returns, displaying that this may become a common battle that he faces and maybe some foreshadowing into his career moves in the future. 

Janine is a character that we see build overtime as well. For example in season two when Janine breaks up with her boyfriend and experiences some financial trouble. This is a dramatic and serious topic that Janine casually jokes off. She often uses her sense of humor and people pleaser attitude to dismiss any issues she has. She is definitely a glass half full type of girl until she hits a certain breaking point. This is a theme that continues and shows repetition throughout the series. 

In Vanity Fair’s article; How Abbott Elementary Became This Year’s Breakout Broadcast Comedy they state: “From the pilot, Abbott delivers a perfect blend of tone that marries the comedic mockumentary format seen in Modern Family and The Office

with the more heartfelt moments as the teachers try to do right by their students within a system of tight budgets and low resources.” Which I think is a completely accurate description of what the show achieves and aims to accomplish. Quinta Brunson stars as Janine, the main character. However she does play a lot of other roles in the creation of the show. Channing Dungey the former President of ABC Entertainment noted, “I like the fact that Quinta is the star of the show, she’s the writer, the executive producer, and she’s in front of the camera—the fact that we are able to give her voice, this platform, is really important to me.”

Brunson also commented on how essential she believed it was for the show to be picked up by ABC and featured on network TV. “Despite the sexiness of streamers, Brunson says she always hoped her comedy series would be on network TV. ‘Although we’ve gone so far with streaming and streaming shows can be the most popular shows in the world, I felt like I hadn’t quite seen sitcoms really thrive in those spaces yet,” she tells Vanity Fair. “When you want to create something that inspires family viewing, but is still funny, is still fresh, it’s still moving the needle a little bit, but something that’s just enjoyable to watch, I thought that network was still the best place.’ ”

The themes we are so used to seeing in season one continue overtime but evolve as we go; under-funding and insufficient resources for students and teachers, misappropriation of school funding (cough cough Ava), and of course the persistence in the face of opposition and embracing the possibility of positive change. The “possibility of positive change” theme is demonstrated by Janine’s go-getterness early on in season one, but as the show progresses it seems like she is able to get her co-workers more on board. She is able to drag along Gregory, Barbara, and even Ava at times to achieve what she believes will help the students the most. We watch how the most unlikely bunch of people can work together and create meaningful bonds and friendships along the way.

 Instagram @abbotblogzs

Link by Link: How Connection Sets Only Murders in the Building Apart

Only Murders in the Building is a unique blend of comedy, mystery, and drama.  Its entertaining mystery plot captured audiences for how it explores the unexpected friendships and connections that can form in unlikely places. Created by Steve Martin and John Hoffman, the series follows three very different characters Charles, Oliver, and Mabel as they team up to solve murders happening in their shared historic New York apartment building, the Arconia. Though at the beginning they strangers from quite different backgrounds, their shared curiosity about a mysterious death brings them together. What starts as a murder investigation soon becomes a journey of friendship, personal growth, and discovery, showing how people who seem so different are connected in surprising ways. 

The idea of connection is at the heart of Only Murders in the Building. Each of the three main characters is dealing with their own kind of loneliness and isolation. Charles, a former TV star, lives alone and mostly keeps to himself. His past success seems to haunt him, and he does not seem to have close relationships. Oliver, on the other hand, is a failed theater director with a big personality who is struggling financially. He's loud, eccentric, and always looking for a new project to reignite his career, but underneath, he’s insecure and worried about his family. Oliver, on the other hand, is a failed theater director with a big personality who is struggling financially. He's loud, eccentric, and always looking for a new project to reignite his career, but underneath, he is insecure and worried about his family. Then there’s Mabel, the youngest of the group, who has a complicated past and a lot of unresolved pain. She returns to the Arconia with the hope of finding closure, especially around the death of her friend. These three might seem mismatched, but their loneliness and shared interest in true crime bring them together when they discover they’re all fans of the same murder podcast.  

When Tim Kono, a fellow resident, dies mysteriously in the building, Charles, Oliver, and Mabel’s life start intertwining. As they dig into the details of Tim’s life and death, they realize that there’s more to Tim's death that meets the eye. As they begin to uncover not just clues about the murder, but also pieces of each other’s lives and secrets. They decided to start a podcast themselves to investigate his murder, and their project quickly becomes more than just a hobby. Even though they are so different, their friendship grows as they spend time together, and they begin to see past each other’s quirks and flaws. The more they dig into Tim’s life, the more they realize that everyone has secrets and struggles, even the people they thought they knew. It’s a way for each of them to feel connected to something and to each other throughout the series. 

 The series also explores how these unexpected connections can lead to personal growth. Charles, Oliver, and Mabel each have walls built up around them at the start of the show. Charles is closed off and reserved, Oliver hides his insecurities behind his “larger than life” personality, and Mabel has put up a tough front to protect herself from pain. But, as they work together on the podcast, they start to open up and trust each other. Charles becomes more willing to take emotional risks, like trying to reconnect with people from his past and even starting a new romance. Oliver learns that he doesn’t always have to be the center of attention and begins to value genuine friendships over flashy ideas. And Mabel, through her new friendships, starts to process her past trauma and finds the courage to move forward in her life throughout the whole series.  

One of the most interesting things about Only Murders in the Building series is how it shows that people are connected in ways we don’t always see. The Arconia is a big building, filled with residents who, on the surface, seem to live separate lives. But as the three main characters investigate, they discover that many of the residents know each other and that there are hidden connections between people who live there. For example, Teddy and Theo Dimas, the wealthy father and son duo, had a secret life that no one knew about, and as they learn more about him, they realize how his actions affected other residents in unexpected ways. It’s a reminder that even though people might seem separate, especially in a big city, they are often part of a web of relationships and influences. 

 Throughout the series, the Arconia itself is a symbol of community and connection, even as it hides secrets within its walls. While each resident lives behind closed doors, wrapped in their own lives and concerns, the show reveals how deeply connected they actually are. Tim Kono’s death becomes a central point that exposes these hidden connections. We see this shown in season 1 episode 2, “Who is Tim Kono?” as the residents of the building congregate together to discuss all they knew about resident Tim Kono and how some of the residents were affected by it. As Charles, Oliver, and Mabel uncover more about Tim’s life, they find out how the other residents of the Arconia are also involved, showing that even when we think our lives are separate, we often share more with others than we realize. This idea of interconnected lives feels especially relevant in today’s world, where people can feel isolated despite living closely together. 

Only Murders in the Building also resonates with viewers for its mix of humor and heart. The show uses comedy to explore some heavy themes, like loneliness, failure, and grief, in a way that feels light but never shallow, creating deep moments within the show. The funny moments between Charles, Oliver, and Mabel make the serious moments hit even harder because we’ve come to care about them. The podcast they create together isn’t just a way to solve murder, it becomes a way for each of them to find a sense of purpose and connection that they were missing in their own lives, which is something they don’t realize until midway of season 1. 

In Only Murders in the Building, everyone is connected in some way, whether they realize it or not. It shows that sometimes, the people who seem the most different from us are the ones who end up changing our lives. The characters’ journeys, from lonely individuals to close friends, illustrate how connection can lead to healing and growth. The show’s charm lies in its ability to blend humor with deep insights into relationships, making us laugh while reminding us of the importance of reaching out and connecting with those around us. By the end of the series, they aren’t just solving murders, they are also learning to live more fully, embracing the messy, unpredictable beauty of life and friendship. Through mystery, laughter, and a little bit of drama, the overall message of Only Murders in the Building shows us that sometimes, the people who make us feel most alive are the ones we least expect.  

(Producer: Spencer, Writer: Precious, Photo/Video Editor: Yolanda, Social Media: Annie, Scribe: Nichole)