Recaps

So, this was actually a great episode, in that my major complaint about the show (its tendency to drop subplots and characterizations without a second thought, so for example Catherine’s use of a python to suggest Nostradamus not leave town was never really ever addressed, and by that I mean they barely interacted for the rest of the season – not because he was avoiding her, just for plot, and even then there was none of the snake-related tension you might expect) was addressed. EVERYBODY got some consequences! Bring your one-night-stand and her kid back to the castle? Her existing friendship with your wife is torpedoed. Shove a powerful nobleman’s son into a dungeon to die? That nobleman’s going to be proving his power by forcing your hand on some stuff! Constantly hang out with your douchey ex? Your fiance’s probably going to be sad about it. And of course, my favorite: try to gently poison Catherine for her own good? Ooooh, buddy, don’t. (The slightly more analytical version of that is at the AV… Read more »

Welcome back to Reign, the show that doesn’t care harder than any show has ever not cared! I’m lucky enough to be covering for Caroline at The AV Club for the opening few weeks of the season, which means the bulk of my commentary will be found over here, all official-like, for the moment. (Since it was the first episode of the season and I had to break down all the returning subplots plus remind everyone Leith is Gross Gatsby, it’s a monster.) My unofficial commentary will remain here! And of course, our primary concern is this nerd and the queen who occasionally tolerates him: Here, technically, she is talking about how they are unprepared for the spread of plague. In reality, we can only assume she’s making it clear how weird it is to even look at him after he shaved, as he studiously waits his turn for petty revenge. (Later, when he approaches the throne, Catherine motions the guards to let him through and he looks so gently happy about this restoration of… Read more »