Distant Love (Part 79)

Two men sitting at a wooden kitchen table having breakfast with toast, jam, and coffee

The lads are already up and eating toast with eggs.

“Look what the cat dragged in, decide it was time to get up?” Aaron asked. The other fellas sniggered.

“Very funny,” Derek replied.

“I’m surprised he’s alive at all. You were really knocking them back,” Marcus intejected.

“Me too. I thought we’d have to delay the mission,” Charles added.

“Thank you all for your concern,” Derek just about managed to reply.

Mick spoke, his tone serious. “You will be able to take part in the mission, won’t you. We need to leave in under two hours on your shipped .”

Derek nods in the affirmative.

The guys talk about soccer briefly before heading out for a walk around the island. It gives Derek time to savor his food, he swears before God it has never tasted so good.

Maeve comes from the bedroom, her eyes drooping. “Where are they gone?”

“Out for a stroll.” Derek says having perked up somewhat after finishing his third cup of tea. “Actually, I’m going to head over now and check up on the ship. I’ll meet everyone over there for the departure.

It’s a sunny, pleasant day outside. There is not a cloud in the sky.

Distant Love (Part 78)

Bedroom with wooden bed, unmade bedding, and a wheelchair beside it

Derek wakes up to a massive headache. His mouth is dry. This is the worst he has felt since he caught the Aurex virus when he was young. He pauses for a moment, wondering how the previous night had ended. Nope, he doesn’t remember.

Maeve is in the bed beside him.

He kisses her forehead.

Her head moves from side to side. “Are you okay?”

“Not really, if I’m being honest. Feeling shit.”

Maeve opens her eyes and smiles. “I think you had a bit too much to drink. Do you remember the last thing you said to the boys?”

“Not really, what?! Derek’s eyes narrowed.

“That we are part of their next operation. Like, you didn’t even ask me,” She let out a mock laugh.

“Ah, no, I’m so sorry. I’ll go and explain that I was drunk.”

“I don’t think so, babe. It wouldn’t go down well. And we’re going to need these people if we are to stay out of prison.”

Derek sits up at the side of the bed. He had a sinking feeling. “I guess you’re right. God, I’m starving.”

With that, he moves back into his wheelchair, eager to get something to fill himself up.

Distant Love (Part 77)

Glowing digital world map connected by network lines hovering over a surreal alien landscape with five silhouetted humanoid figures

“So, where and what is this?” Derek asks.

Mick smiles. “This, my new friend is our next target. A relay station in Liverpool.”

Derek shrugs. “What is so important about that?”

Aaron interjects, “It’s an important communication portal between Earth and several major orbiting stations. The monetary cost of the damage will be enormous. We’re not going to change everything overnight. It’s about building sustained, prolonged pressure. Ya know what I mean.”

“I understand. Tell me more about the plan. There must be something I can do to help.”

Placing his hand on Derek’s shoulder, Aaron replies, “When I heard what you had done, I said fair fucks. A guy in a chair, breaking our Maeve out. I said that, didn’t I say that, Marcus and Charles?”

They reply in unison. “Yes, you did.”

Aaron looks directly at Derek, “I knew I was going to like this guy. And yes, I think there’s something you can do.”

Animated, they tell Derek about what they have planned. Every few minutes, they encourage him to down another whiskey. Soon, he feels groggy, and he finds it hard to follow what they are saying.

Maeve whispers in his ear. “I think you’ve had enough. Come on let’s get you into bed.”

Hulk Hogan: A Deep Dive into the Wrestling Legend

Silhouetted wrestler standing in a backstage corridor facing an arena entrance

I wonder how many of my readers remember the heyday of Hulk Hogan. In truth, I missed the best part of it myself, partly due to being too young and not having cable.

However, I did get to see some of his later years, and what a showman he was! That’s why I decided to give this a watch.

Bryan Storkel’s four-part Netflix docuseries Hulk Hogan: Real American, released shortly after Hulk Hogan’s (Terry Bollea) death in July 2025, aims to peel back the layers of one of wrestling’s most iconic and polarizing figures. Featuring Hogan’s final interviews, it promises an unfiltered look at the man behind the bandana and 24-inch pythons. The result is a nostalgic, WWE-adjacent tribute that delivers plenty of feel-good Hulkamania moments but often pulls its punches on the controversies, resulting in a glossy, uneven portrait.

The series shines brightest when it leans into Hogan’s larger-than-life persona and cultural footprint. Archival footage of early WrestleManias, the body slam heard ’round the world on André the Giant at WrestleMania III, and the explosion of Hulkamania is pure dopamine for ’80s kids. Those segments capture why Hogan transcended wrestling—he wasn’t just a wrestler; he was a marketing machine who helped turn the WWF into a global juggernaut.

Hogan’s charisma still leaps off the screen, even in his later, frailer years. The home movies and personal reflections add a human touch, showing the Florida musician who became a superstar. Moments like his honest (if self-serving) admissions about backstage politics—such as his role in derailing Bret Hart’s push—provide rare glimpses of accountability. Werner Herzog’s cameo offering philosophical musings on reality vs. performance is a weirdly compelling highlight. For fans craving nostalgia, these elements hit hard and deliver emotional payoffs, especially in the context of Hogan’s passing.

Where Hulk Hogan: Real American falters is in its reluctance to truly grapple with the man’s flaws. It’s frequently labeled a “hagiography” or PR exercise—and for good reason. Darker chapters (the Gawker sex tape scandal and leaked racial slurs, family turmoil from Hogan Knows Best, steroid admissions, and political associations) feel rushed, sanitized, or spun in Hogan’s favor. The series avoids deep dives into specifics, omits key voices (notably a full Vince McMahon presence, despite audio clips), and sometimes shifts blame (e.g., scapegoating the reality show for marital issues).

Hogan himself sabotages some redemption arcs by dodging full vulnerability—excuses abound, and raw emotion is shut down quickly. The heavy emphasis on his later-life redemption (faith, third marriage, Trump friendship) comes across as agenda-driven rather than probing. Donald Trump’s appearance feels more like celebrity name-dropping than insightful commentary.

Structurally, the four episodes can feel disjointed, especially the finale, which rushes through the “downfall” era. It celebrates the myth without fully interrogating how the Hulk Hogan persona consumed Terry Bollea, or the physical and personal toll of the wrestling lifestyle that contributed to his health struggles.

Three stars out of five from me.

Distant Love (Part 76)

Architectural blueprints, measuring tape, pencils, notebook, coffee mug, and drinks on a wooden desk

The drink flows, and Derek feels warmer.

“So, what was it like growing up on the moon?” Aaron asks Derek. “It must have been great to be able to look up at the stars and to see the lunar surface.”

Derek stops to ponder his response. “Most of the time, it was pretty boring, to be honest. It’s like being stuck on a small island where the scenery never changes and where you must justify your own existence.”

Mick rubs his nose and then speaks for the first time. “I take it you’re not a fan of the authorities?”

Grinning Derek replied, “You do realize that you are speaking to probably the most wanted either down here or up there.”

Mick’s jaw clenched, “Can we trust you?”

Gasps went out from those in the room.

“Of course, we can trust him,” Maeve interrupted.

“It’s ok, everyone, I prefer to talk candidly like this. Yes, you can trust me,” Derek says, staring right at him.

“Good,” Mick replied, “We have a lot of work to get through. And some of our best work is done while drinking whiskey.”

Mick takes out a blue and white schematic. “This is our next target.”

Distant Love (Part 75)

Four friends sitting at a wooden table with whiskey bottles and glasses, laughing in a cozy pub

Maeve taps her foot against the floor as she sits at the table and waits for Derek to enter.

Her four male friends stand beside her chatting away to her aunt.

Marcus, with a mop of sandy brown hair is the closest and tallest of the group. Usually reserved around those he doesn’t know well, he comes alive around those he trusts

Charles, in a black jacket, is to his right. The two of them are inseparable.

Then there is Mick. An imposing man with a powerful physique. Maeve knows little about him.

It’s Aaron she knows best.

Aaron pushes Maeve’s shoulder. “Don’t worry we’ll go easy on your lover boy.

She smiles. “You better.”

There is the familiar sound of Derek’s wheelchair. He bellows, “These must be the guys I’ve heard about.”

“Hope it was only good things,” Aaron laughs back. “It’s great to meet the legend that saved Maeve.”

They both nodded at each other.

“Are you sure you saved the right one, though?” Aaron continues. “Maybe someone a bit..”

“You shut up, Aaron. Or you’ll be off this island,” Maeve retorts.

The room bursts out into laughter.

Auntie pulls out some bottles of whiskey. “Get that into you. It’ll do you good.”

Apex (2026): A Must-Watch Survival Thriller on Netflix

Sunset over rocky desert terrain with scattered vegetation and distant mountain range under colorful sky

Hello readers, I was switching between streaming services last night when I came across this film. I thought it was going to be about a giant crocodile. Fortunately, I was wrong.

Apex (2026) is a thrilling, pulse-pounding survival adventure that delivers exactly what it promises—and then some. Directed by Baltasar Kormákur with a lean 95-minute runtime, this Netflix original stands out as one of the platform’s strongest recent action-thrillers, blending breathtaking cinematography, committed performances, and white-knuckle tension into a gripping cat-and-mouse tale set against the raw beauty (and brutality) of the Australian wilderness.

The film follows Sasha (Charlize Theron), an extreme sports enthusiast and adrenaline junkie grieving a personal loss, who embarks on a high-stakes adventure with her partner Tommy (Eric Bana). What begins as a daring climb on a sheer rock face quickly spirals into a nightmare when tragedy strikes and a psychotic predator—brilliantly played by Taron Egerton—enters the fray. The story smartly draws inspiration from classics like Deliverance, The River Wild, and Cliffhanger, while carving its own path with creative twists on the “hunter becomes hunted” trope.

Kormákur’s direction is masterful here. The opening sequence alone is a showstopper: a couple waking up in a tent literally affixed to a vertical cliff, with nothing but gravity and stunning vistas below. The film maintains this high-octane energy throughout, balancing visceral action with quieter moments of resilience and resourcefulness. It’s briskly paced, never overstaying its welcome, and feels like a “real movie” rather than typical streaming filler—slick, methodically gripping, and refreshingly focused on thrills over unnecessary exposition.

Charlize Theron gives a breathtaking performance. Her character displays just the right amount of weakness and strength at the right time.

The Australian landscapes are a character in their own right. Cinematography captures both the majestic allure and unforgiving danger of rugged peaks, raging rivers, and dense wilderness. Nature feels alive—beautiful yet deadly—and the practical stunts combined with convincing effects create immersive, teeth-grinding tension.

Five stars out of five from me. A must watch.

Exciting Times in Writing: My Recent Progress

Laptop on wooden desk with coffee cup, glasses, lamp, and floating digital icons

Hello my dear readers. First of all, my thanks to you for your time and support. This has been the been the best month to date with over five hundred views. The vast majority of views are from outside Ireland, most are from the United States. It will be interesting to see where I can bring it from here. Exciting times.

A brief update on my social media

X – my handle is @markahern2000

I have 149 followers. Slow growth

Bluesky – @markswritingcorner.bsky.social

2,800 followers. Growth in followers was explosive at one point but has since come to a complete halt. Disappointing but engagement on the platform has improved.

Mark’s Writing Page on facebook

135 followers. This is showing slow growth.

I have 61 people subscribed on the website and I also post to my 600 friends on Facebook.

So, enough statistics. What about the creativity aspect?

Wheelchair Wars – This is what I’m concentrating on at the moment. More or less at 40k words. However, I need 55k to 60k so expect more post on this lol

Galway Girls and Pegasus – Parked for now.

Distant Love – First Draft – expect more posts.

Of course, I will still be doing my reviews of whatever I fancy. Think I might even do one later.

That’s all for now. I’d love to hear your thoughts if you wish to comment.

And please subscribe to one of my platforms if you have not already done so.

Distant Love (Part 74)

Dim hallway with wooden door labeled 12B slightly ajar letting light in

“And what role do these people that are coming later have in the group?” Derek asks.

The auntie now sits at the table. “They are what is called an active duty cell. The rebels who get their hands dirty. You may find some of the stuff they do reprehensible but its all for a good cause.”

Derek looks her right in the eyes. “I understand. The thirst for freedom, to live one’s life as you wish. It is something intrinsic to being human. My life on the moon had been set out. Leaving and seeing Earth was never supposed to be in my future. I understand.

The auntie nods.

Derek retreats to his room. It’s important that he would be on top of his game later on. Guilty thoughts plague him.

He awakes hours later to the noise of chattering.

They have arrived.

There is a knock on his door as he transfers back into his wheelchair “Yes?”

“It’s me, Maeve. They are here and asking to meet you.”

“I’ll be out in a minute.”

He took a big breath and looked into the mirror hanging on the wall.

It’s important I make a good impression. My life may depend on it.

Malcolm in the Middle Revival: A Nostalgic Return

Man sleeping on beige couch in a cluttered living room with TV on and empty cups on table

Twenty years ago, Malcolm in the Middle was a mainstay on television. It was a single-camera comedy series that followed a dysfunctional working-class family and starred Frankie Muniz in the lead role as Malcolm, a child prodigy. The ensemble cast included Bryan Cranston and Jane Kaczmarek as Malcolm’s parents, Hal and Lois.

It was a show that I watched with my friends and family.

So, what’s the latest series like? Well, it appears life is still unfair..

This four-episode limited revival, which dropped on Hulu (and Hulu on Disney+) on April 10, 2026, brings back the original magic with Frankie Muniz as Malcolm, Bryan Cranston as the ever-optimistic Hal, and Jane Kaczmarek as the formidable Lois. Nearly 20 years after the original series ended, it feels like no time has passed — except now the kids are grown, Malcolm has a daughter, and the family dysfunction has evolved into even wilder, more relatable territory.

The premise is pure Malcolm: After years of keeping his distance to build a stable life for himself and his daughter, Malcolm gets pulled back into the family vortex for Hal and Lois’s 40th wedding anniversary. What follows is a rapid-fire barrage of slapstick, awkward family revelations, gross-out humor, and surprisingly touching moments about growing up, parenting, and the unbreakable (if exhausting) bonds of family.

The cast chemistry is electric. Cranston steals scenes as the aging but still manic Hal — his physical comedy and wild energy are peak form. Muniz slips back into Malcolm’s exasperated genius with ease, while Kaczmarek’s Lois remains the unstoppable force of nature we love (and fear). The brothers (Reese, Dewey — with a recast that works surprisingly well — and Francis) bring their distinct flavors of chaos, and the whole ensemble feels lived-in and authentic.

I found the end of the first series particularly hilarious, but I won’t spoil.

The show keeps the signature fourth-wall breaks, fast-paced editing, and irreverent tone, but adds emotional depth around adulthood, legacy, and what happens when the “genius” kid becomes the reluctant adult trying to escape the cycle.

Five stars out of five from me. You know what to do.