Brandon’s manipulative tactics are proving successful in isolating Russell and Kolby, creating a divisive “Us vs. Them” dynamic. To avoid being misunderstood as a toxic masculinity group, Anthony’s “Man’s Movement” project requires rebranding. Brandon’s smear campaign against Kolby is successfully creating a new enemy for Kristina, causing turmoil within the group. The drama within the LAMDT crew has officially begun. During an argument, Brandon insulted Kolby, and Russell, unhappy with the insult towards his wife, was clearly displeased. Anthony and LaToya attempted to diffuse the situation, but the lines have been drawn on the OWN reality series.
Brandon’s actions make him a formidable villain. Under the guise of protecting his wife, he has manipulated Kristina into viewing Kolby as an enemy. This situation works out perfectly for him, as Kolby had exposed his new artist during a failed anniversary dinner. It’s clear that Brandon has had issues with Kolby and Russell since then. In the first two episodes, he quickly planted seeds of doubt in Kristina’s mind. Now, he has successfully isolated Kolby and Russell as a couple, creating a “Us vs. Them” scenario that Kristina has fallen into due to her love for Brandon. However, this is not protection; it’s a narcissistic manipulation tactic. Narcissists dislike being held accountable for their actions, so they employ various techniques to avoid it, including smear campaigns.
Shahida Arabi, an author and psychologist, explains the smear campaign tactic in a Thought Catalog article. She emphasizes that toxic individuals control how others perceive you when they can’t control how you perceive yourself. They portray themselves as martyrs and label you as toxic. Brandon has used this tactic by accusing Kolby, who greatly admired Kristina, of trying to copy her and replace her in the influencer world. Shockingly, his smear campaign has been effective. Although the Thompsons did their best to diffuse the situation, it was futile. LaToya recognized Brandon’s manipulative tactics, and it’s understandable that she and Anthony no longer trust him.
Moving on to Anthony’s “Man’s Movement” project, it desperately needs rebranding. The current name gives the impression of another toxic masculinity group. However, when Anthony explains the project’s purpose of uplifting young Black men in their community and providing them with the necessary support to set and achieve goals, it becomes clear that it’s a positive endeavor. To avoid misunderstandings, a rebranding effort is crucial.
During a meeting to prepare for the project’s first event, Brandon arrived wearing a shirt with Kristina’s face, signaling his intention to cause trouble. While the meeting was productive, Brandon acted confused for reasons unrelated to the discussions. It’s likely that he felt this way because he was not the center of attention. After the meeting, Anthony asked Brandon and Russell to stay behind and address the issues. Bravo stayed for the potential drama, not having been involved in the roller skating rink altercation. Anthony mediated the conversation, and Russell expressed his anger towards Brandon for insulting Kolby. Brandon’s insult deeply hurt Kolby, and Russell’s protective instincts kicked in. Although violence should never be condoned, a metaphorical “punch in the face” might make Brandon realize the consequences of his actions.
As Mike Tyson, the former heavyweight champion of the world, once said, “Everybody has a plan, until they get hit.” This quote stands true for Brandon. His plans involve demonizing Kolby to portray himself in a better light. However, everyone except Kristina sees through his façade. Brandon’s actions have immediate repercussions, as seen later in the episode.
At the men’s meeting, Russell informs Brandon that he and Kristina are uninvited from Kolby’s birthday party. Given their consistent history of causing drama at group gatherings, this decision is understandable. Anthony, recognizing this pattern, understands why they were excluded. While Brandon and Kristina act unfazed by the news, it seems like they are putting up a front. However, they were better off not attending the party. Despite Kolby being aware of the event and it not being a surprise, Russell genuinely wanted to make her happy, and she appreciated his effort. LaToya attended the party to show support and love, expressing that she has already addressed her issues with Brandon and Kristina and has no need to meet with them, unlike her peace-making husband. Meanwhile, during a meeting with Brandon and Kristina, Anthony fibs about LaToya’s whereabouts, a lie that is bound to cause conflict later on.
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Khushi Patel is a science fiction author who lives in Austin, Texas. She has published three novels, and her work has been praised for its originality and imagination. Khushi is a graduate of Rice University, and she has worked as a software engineer. She is a member of the Science Fiction Writers of America, and her books have been nominated for several awards.
