#and ep 2 has so much more to offer on rewatch

[bronx-bomber87]

Hi! just want to say really love The Rookie episode breakdown that you do.

So assuming you have watch all of them, do you have any list / ranking of best Chenford related episodes? Or can you give us your ranking of best Chenford related episodes? Really want to hear your thoughts on this. Thank you!

Hi @xiaozhen16! First off thank you for your lovely comment on my reviews. Means a lot I'm so glad you enjoy them. :) Also appreciate you wanting my thoughts on this. Let's see I have been with The Rookie since day one, actually pre-green light. I followed Nathan after Castle and his next project and saw The Rookie get its green light. So i've been with since the literal jump. Seen all eps for sure more than once haha Think I've rewatched it least 5 times since it started. Thank you for being patient while I took the time to answer this. Life is hard to fit stuff in so thank you. It'll be a long reply lol In order to answer this properly I'm going to do top 5 with an honorable mentions that could span up to 5 cause this is hard LOL Those will be in no particular order. I'll do it for each season. Except S5. I just can't choose S5 down to a top ten.

I love that entire season. But I can do 1-4. Someday I can rank S5 on its own ranking the entire season if you like but for now it'll be this. Let me know if you'd like me to do that in the comments. But for this one Each season has something different to offer for them. So it'll be easier to break it down by season but only going up to S4. Hopefully you enjoy this detailed reply. Anyone is welcome to comment and such too.

Season 1.

1x14 Plain Clothes Day

Hands down this is my favorite episode of S1 for them. It's a very telling episode for them both. Lots of growth as well. Lucy is hell bent to prove herself to Tim. She is nervous but driven to prove to Tim she is worth investing his time in. Her day is a plethora of jitters and mistakes. Tim consistently getting under her skin and rattling her cage. Then at the last minute like a phoenix rising from the ashes Lucy makes the right call. Such a clutch moment that impresses Tim more than he'll ever let on. Doesn't hesitate for one moment checking that man's garage out.

This is a huge step towards her growth as a cop and a person really. Its seminal episode for Lucy. A stepping stone to her confidence and learning to trust her instincts and not second guess herself. For Tim it's realizing as much as he loves to mess with Lucy he wants her to succeed more. He states in the very beginning of the episode how he's had 11 rookies wash out on this day. ELEVEN. He hasn't cared if his rookies have washed out 11 times. Then Lucy Chen walked into his life. Disrupted his life in the best way.

With her incredibly driven sunshine ways he REFUSES to let her be his 12th. Does everything in his ability to keep her from being fired. They have a lot of lovely moments in this episode ranging from messing with her to fiercely protecting her from that tool-bag trying to take her job. The scene outside the captain's office where he has to re-write her eval gah so very good. Overall just an amazing episode of moments and growth for them as characters and as a ship. Another step towards their rock-solid bond.

2. 1x20 Free Fall

What's not to love about this finale? It's the culmination of everything they've been through to this point in the season. We watch how Tim instantly protects Lucy from being infected. At first he's in control of the situation (or so he thinks..) Trying to keep Lucy calm while on the inside he is panicking. Attempting to keep up his tough T.O. act with her. Determined to show Lucy he's bulletproof no matter the situation. That quickly begins the devolve the longer he is in that room.

The more he has to deal with this disease alone the worse it gets. We get a front row seat into protective Lucy. The way she is losing it for Tim on the outside. Doing anything and everything to get him out of there. This is the first time we get to see Tim trust Lucy emotionally and not hesitate. Not only that but so openly. She has been knocking on the door of this all season.

The scene above is her reward for all that work. The role reversal that happens here is wonderful. Where Lucy becomes the rock. The one to comfort him while Tim is battling with his dark thoughts of suicide if this goes sideways. Trusting her enough to tell her such deep thoughts. Lucy guiding him through those emotions best she can. It's a fantastic way to end the season for them. Lots of earned moments in this one.

3. 1x11 Redwood

Our first Iconic OTP Line Episode. This is where we start to see Tim soften for Lucy. Those sharp edges dulling a bit. We get to watch how he knows exactly how to calm her when she is in a panic. Tim commands this entire episode for her. Distracting her from the moment that needle goes in to chewing out the nurse for not prioritizing her. It was our first glimpse into protective Tim and I was here for it. Excellent introduction to this side of him regarding Lucy. Does the Tim Bradford special where he tells her like it is while showing empathy.

The first time we get to see him care truly care and let her know that he's there. Has her back in a way no one really has before. Lucy is watching her career go down the drain in her eyes. Changing her life forever and is in panic city. Tim doesn't let her be a resident there for very long. This ep showcases how amazing he is at his job and how good Tim is with Lucy. Knows exactly what to do in order to keep her sane.

He spends his entire day distracting her and showing empathy in the process. Ultimately stopping her from going off the razor's edge. It's these moments she has with Tim that shift her POV of him. Why she fights for him like she does. Lucy knows the good heart this man has. That he cares about her as person. That she is more than just his rookie. It's so very good. Producing the line above. *sigh*

4. 1x07 The Ride Along

These early episode are what I like to call building block eps. The foundation that is laid in these are so important. It's Lucy showing up for Tim when he needs it most. Their relationship is in its infancy in these episodes. Being molded into what we see in the finale and honestly the future. Lucy noticing a serious wrong (Isabel taking advantage of Tim's deep loyalty) Not only noticing but not letting him throw his life/career away for it. The line above is EVERYTHING. She refuses to let Tim cross an ocean and compromise his soul for someone who wouldn't cross a puddle for him. The bravery it took for her take a stand I'll always commend her for. How scary it must've been for her to confront him like this. When he was still in his radioactive insanely damaged phase. Tim already meant more to her at this point than she expected. She couldn't stand back and watch him self-destruct for someone who didn't deserve it. Tim is not even close to being used to someone showing up for him like this at this point. It's so very foreign to him.

Not only that but someone putting him in place and knocking sense back into him. Something he comes to learn and love about Lucy. Becomes the fabric of their dynamic really. In the moment he's so angry with her but long term forever grateful she stepped in like she did. That crack in his wall starting to grow a little more. A defining moment for them early on in this season. They had me hook line and sinker after this. I was already low-key shipping them but this added to it.

5. 1x03 The Good The Bad and the Ugly

Another building block episode. A crucial one for them really. I love how their early episodes set them up beautifully for the rest of the season. If not for these episodes you wouldn't see how wonderful the growth is for them both. The episodes that'll be in my honorable mentions are the fruit of these. Because without seeing where they came from how could we deeply appreciate how far they've come? Tim is imploding at a high velocity in this episode. Doesn't care about the collateral damage either. At this point that damage radius includes Lucy.

We truly see Tim as his very worst in the beginning. The beautiful thing is Lucy see's past his hurt into who he is as a person. He is worth getting through to. Also she also see's he is a god damn dumpster fire. One that if she doesn't put him out he's going to take her down with him. You know Tim respects the hell out of her for the scene above. (Not in the moment but in the long term of it all.)

For standing up to him and showing him how selfish he was being. It's what earns her that wonderful scene in the shop afterwards. Where he opens up and tells her about Isabel and a little bit of their history. His way of thanking her for getting his head on straight. Their early stuff is so raw but so good. They're learning how to function together. Usually one of them leading the other more depending on the situation. Start of their wonderful dynamic.

~~~

Honorable mentions-Ones I wanted to include cause they're amazing but can only gif the top 5 and one mention ha So it'll be my top ten for each season. They have so many good eps.

1x18 Home Front

So much to love about this one. Lucy busting his chops the entire ep. Get our first glimpse into their playful work flirts. Her challenging him on his personal life and not work for the first time. Standing her ground in that opinion. Like she does best with him. Telling Tim he needs something other than work. Naturally is defensive at first and eventually caves in. It results in the cute paintball moment above we all know and love.

1x19-Checklist-We get another glimpse into what Tim is willing to do to keep Lucy from washing out. I love this episode and how we start to see Tim trust in her decision making skills. Like the woman with the swapped plates. She lets her go and it ends up working out for her. The final scene is the best where he logs OT for her to continue on in the program. Lucy feeling so supported with this gesture. *heart clutch* So good.

1x16 Green light- Our first look into how protective Lucy can be about Tim. Their rank be damned in her opinion. The way she protects and defends him to Detective Murphy is glorious. Not caring she's her superior officer. She is kicking him when he is already down and Lucy won't stand for it. Then Tim returns the favor when she's upset about catching Cole. ‘Grief is grief. It’s a hole that can’t be filled. But over time, it’ll shrink enough so that you won’t fall in every time you take a step.’ His growth in this line is amazing to watch unfold. How he has grown since his whole debacle with Isabel.

1x15-Man Hunt.- We see some more fruit of Lucy's impact on Tim. Him wanting to do more with his career. He decides to go for Sergeant and we all know she is part of that reason. Also we get a glimpse into Tim and his rookie days through Deacon and his 54 connection. Lucy is delighted to get a birds eye view to his past. It's the scene where they're defending the escaped prisoner that's the best. Saying how he refuses to do something he will be ashamed in the light of day. This moment being proof Lucy's impact on him from 1x07. Its beautifully full circle.

1x01 Pilot-Gotta include the pilot. It's what set the table for them. "Officer Bradford gets our hot shot." He sure does. Getting a look into them as characters and where they start off from. It's what hooked me to this show to begin with. Other than just my love for Eric and Nathan at the time lol I saw deep characters with so much potential and I've been hooked ever since.

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Season 2. Has an unreal amount of good eps for them did my best to keep it to ten.

2x11 Day of Death

Naturally this iconic episode is my favorite of S2. How could it not be? This is a massively seminal moment in their history. It's where they go from border-line friends to bonded in a way no one else will ever understand. We watch Lucy fight tooth and nail to stay alive. She is so resilient because she knows Tim is on his way. He won't let her die. Won't Let Caleb win. Her immense amount of faith is beautiful. Knowing that he will get to her in time. Not a doubt in her mind.

We watch Tim race against the clock to rescue her. The pressure and anxiety mounting through out the entire episode for him. Like a weight on his soul he refuses to put down until she is back. We get to witness how much Tim has come to care about Lucy. See the depth's he will go to get her back safely. Also get to see a darker side to him. Which I wasn't totally opposed to seeing in order to get to her. (and wouldn't mind seeing again. tbh) 'Today is your day of reckoning. I am responsible for a life that is in jeopardy, and I will do whatever I have to, to save her.' *fans self* That man is on edge from the moment she goes missing till she is in his arms above.

First actual relaxing breath he takes the entire ep. You see how his body slumps against her in relief as he holds her. How deeply worried he was and won't let her out of his sight afterwards. We all know that man slept at the hospital all night and didn't take his eyes off her until she woke up. To make sure he was the first face she saw. That final scene in the hospital a beautiful look into the deep bond they've formed at this point. I love them sfm. Where we get our next Iconic OTP Line. 'You know me so well. Too Well.' Amongst a flurry of heart eyes and emotions.

2. 2x12 Now and Then

What I love the most about this episode is how Tim steps back. Let's her get taken care of by someone other than himself. Control Freak Tim Bradford hands the reins over. Because her recovering is more important than his ego. The growth I can not. He see's a blind spot within himself that he can not help out with. So he heeds Nyla's words when she approaches him about taking her on. He watches anxiously from afar wanting not to over step the entire episode.

Lucy is hurt he doesn't let her ride with him right away. She is confused and her emotions are all over the place in this episode. Rightfully so. We get to see once again how much Tim cares about her. The way he's asking everyone around her how she is. Even asks Nolan how she is really doing. You know that was hard for him to do. We get to the end of the episode and this glorious scene above. Tim sharing a piece of his past to heal her present.

You can tell he so desperately wants to take on some of her pain. That if he could he would. Still shouldering the weight of her being taken being on him. Trying to give her some hard won perspective. This is his way of saying he's so proud of her, he misses her, hoping him sharing his past brings her back to him. Brings Lucy back to being his sunshine human. Not the angry resentful one he see's in front of him. It's a beautiful scene for the both of them. The sweet smiles when he tosses back the ring. My damn heart.

3. 2x13 Follow Up Day

Another Iconic moment in S2. This season is full of them. Ground breaking moments that drive them forward as a ship. He's passed his Sergeants exam. Hooray. Lucy is SO DAMN PROUD when they get the news. It's the thing he's been working toward since the beginning of S2. He's offered a Hollywood post. One that he can have quickly. A prominent position for him right out the gate and yet he hesitates. Why you ask? Well he's a little too attached to his current rookie that he pretends he isn't attached to. (While dating her best friend might I add. Something I would forget regularly in this season)

Lucy reminds him why he wants to stay around and not leave yet. She challenges him, supports him and believes in Tim in a way he's never had before. Has unwavering faith in him. He says he's not done training her yet. When really he's not ready to let go of the influence she's had on his life. Heart eyes galore. She is more important than moving up atm. I love it.

4. 2x02 The Night General

The beginning of Tim's quest to study for being a Sergeant. It starts off as Tim torturing Lucy with reading his out of print book to him. What starts out as him enjoying making her read it turns into so much more. Lucy quickly turns it around on him. Because well Lucy. Decides on specific segments to have him recite back. Quickly annoying him and he loses this game fairly quickly. It's during this studying we find out Tim learns a certain way. That he must be in motion to absorb the material. (Me too love) He doesn't take this news in stride very well because it's Tim.

Lucy goes above and beyond to apologize for upsetting him. She spends what I assume is any free time between shifts recording the book for him. Not only does she do this she reassures him that it's ok to learn this way. There is no shame in it even compliments him because of it. Telling him its why he excels at being a cop. I

I just adore this moment so much because she builds him up and encourages him. Never once letting him feel shame for how he learns. Lucy taking care of him in ways Tim can't even comprehend atm. He is overwhelmed by her support and empathy. Can only muster a really loaded 'Thanks.' Such a lovely building block for them. Also welcome to the sweaty gun show above *fans self*

5. 2x08 Clean Cut

Ahh the protective Lucy episode. We get to see how far Tim will go for Lucy in this season. The audience also gets to see how far Lucy is willing to go to protect and defend Tim. Just like in 1x16 she charges head long at a superior to defend Tim. Refusing to let anyone sully his name or character. From the moment their shop hits that woman's car she goes into 'Protect Tim mode.' at all costs.

Hell raining down on anyone who gets in the way of her clearing his name. Eating anyone trying to stop her from righting this wrong she KNOWS is a wrong against him. Tim is so defeated and resigned after it happens. He's not going to defend himself so Lucy takes it on herself to do this. The ferocity is noticed by Tim. Why he lets her lead the questioning against the shady BF.

Lucy breathes life back into him that they could overturn this. That unshakeable faith she has in him. Refusing to let him give up on himself. It's the way she builds him up and won't let him think any less of himself I adore so much. After it's reversed and he gets his award she's a proud wifey. Even throwing back his own words at him when he thanks her. Eyes full of love. It's fantastic full circle moment for them.

~~~

Honorable Mentions

2x19-Q Word

As I've said earlier S2 is chock full of goodies. Tim learning the place he still holds in Lucy's life. He is her GO TO. A place he thought he had lost in 2x11. He gave up having that spot in her life because he no longer felt worthy of it. That he was given his shot and he blew it. Lucy not for one damn second thought he forfeited that. She was more upset he wasn't engaging with her about this than anything else.

Lucy does her best to relieve him of his burden. Of the guilt he continues to feel. To let him know it was NOT his fault. That his opinion is one of most value to her. The very opposite of what Tim thought of his place in her world. It's a good episode. One of the best parts above. Lucy applying some salve to his guilty soul.

2x06 Fallout

Lots to love in this ep. Tim trying and failing at 'being nice' to Lucy while she goes through her emotions about her ex. To him tapping into his actual soft side for her. The genuine side. Them facing a bomb threat and Lucy getting to unleash all her anger about her ex's wedding Such a good scene.. With a little of Lucy throwing his words back like no one else can. Lastly ending with them deciding to spend their last moments on earth together drinking booze. Damn good ep.

2x10-The Dark Side

Ahhh the pre-DOD episode. Where Tim spends the entire episode being over protective of Lucy and not sure why he is. All he knows is he doesn't like this guy sniffing around her. His cop gut screaming at him with a mixture of jealously and actual worry. The whole episode is one giant foreshadowing for the following episode.

2x14 Casualties

Tim background eps are always my jam. I LOVE LOVE LOVE this man and learning of his history. Getting a little look into his life in the service with Mitch. Also the intro of their fur-baby Kojo and how very unready Lucy is to care for him. We get our next Iconic OTP line 'Some things matter more.' A moment which is such a prominent scene for them. Good precursor to the moment they share in 2x19 as well.

2x01 impact

The premiere got some real good stuff. We see how Tim reacts so very poorly to Lucy protecting him. Regressing them both with his flour bomb moment. HIs anger coming out in everything he does with her in this episode. Lucy taking it at first then reaches her boiling point towards the end. Basically hands him his ass in a way only Lucy Chen can. It's glorious. Turns him around so much he brags on her to Grey later on about her jump after a suspect. 'Of course she did. I trained her.'

~~~

Season 3

3x09 Amber

Ahh my fav ep of the season. This episode has so many good moments. Lucy with her list for a 'healthy parting.' How she is determined to make her last day a big deal with Tim. Where as Tim is also determined, just in the opposite direction. Because if he talks about it he's going to have to face her leaving. Which we all know he does not want to do. Fights her on it most of the episode. Until something serious happens. Then Tim finally gives in to distract Lucy from the stressful baby scenario they're currently in.

Takes care of her by letting her do the bloody list he's trying to avoid. They have a lovely moment of reminiscing over Plain Clothes Day. How far Lucy has come since that moment. The amount of confidence she had gained. Learning to trust her instincts fully. Something Tim saw in her day one and wanted her to hone in on. Lucy then brings up UC and Tim saying she doesn't have what it takes. it leads into the most iconic moment of the episode. Where she "pretends" to have feelings for Tim.

Sending Tim into an ABSOLUTE panic till she can't take it anymore and breaks into pure laughter. Wounding his pride severely in the process of proving her point. We get two epic moments in this episode. The parking garage scene is lovely. A culmination of the last year of so. How far they've both come. His last eval being one that brings them full circle. Lucy's flour bomb finishing off the nostalgia. The heart eyes galore in this scene and its topped off with them calling each other by their first names. Starting a new chapter with this wonderful moment.

2. 3x14 Threshold

I LOVE this episode so much. It's why it's number 2. This episode is the culmination of Lucy's fast track UC training with Harper. Lucy chomping at the bit to prove herself. A VERY anxious Tim observing from the outside. The flirty flirt we get in the car makes me squee every time. Little bit of Tim and Lucy truly coming out in that moment. The touching is everything as she communicates silently with him about what's going on.

Then we get this moment above. Where they are blatantly flirting and checking each other out. Especially Tim. Man could not be more transparent in his attraction to Lucy at this point. The elevator gaze before they even talk. *fans self* Shameless flirting, praise from Tim and to top it off Tim is the one to ask Lucy to save him a dance. I remember going out of my mind with excitement when I saw this episode. Look at them above. My god the UST in immense and I love it so very much.

3. 3x06 Revelations

The episode where Lucy begins her interest in UC. It's a ROUGH episode for Tim for a lot of reasons. From his PTSD about Isabel with Mack showing up to seeing Lucy put in harms way. We see the protective side come out fiercely in this one. He doesn't even try to tamp it down. Especially in front of others. i.e. the entire OP room LOL Tim battling past demons and losing terribly. Seeing his favorite human put at risk isn't sitting well with him. His panic at losing her or possibly getting hurt making him lose his mind.

Lucy just wanting him to be proud of her. For showing an interest outside of patrol. To be excited she got put on an OP because she kicked ass on the fly. Impressed Harper enough to green light her. His approval and opinion meaning the entire world to her. When he doesn't she is so very discouraged. That's what makes the moment above so important and amazing. Tim putting aside those demons and letting her have that approval and praise she earned ten times over. Because at the end of the day this OP was about her and not him. So he puts her first with the lovely moment above.

4. 3x11 New Blood

Where we see Lucy be utterly CONSUMED by jealously and insecurities. Tim gets his new rookie and Lucy is excited at first. Then see's Tim isn't treating her anywhere near how she was treated in the beginning. He's being nice, letting her drive, buying her coffee, being soft and empathetic. All things she had to drag out of him kicking and screaming. I've said this before but Tim was her first real 'puppy' with massive success. It was a lot of work though for her to have the relationship she has with him now.

Then this Katie Barnes comes in and gets it all in one shift. Lucy is losing her damn mind most of the ep. Watching from afar with massive jealously. Poor Jackson has to listen to it most of his shift LOL Comes with the bestie territory though. By the end of the episode she see's Tim filling out her paperwork and lets Tim have it. What I love is he doesn't get mad at her for it.

Doesn't reprimand her just quell's her insecurities. Explaining why he was training Barnes the way he was. Then seals the scene with the lovely line above. Lucy is absolutely beaming when he walks away. Full of so much joy and happiness she can't contain herself. He thinks she is one of the best rookie's he's trained and lets her know it. Saying maybe one day Katie could be as good as her. *sigh* So good.

5. 3x01 Consequences

Their first marriage episode of the season. Where Lucy is on Tim like white on rice. Her confidence and self esteem shines through out this season and this is the starter episode of it all. The way they go through Nolan's house together is fantastic. She challenges Tim the entire time with her own cop gut. It's so fun to watch the back and forth.

They go from cute banter to Tim being a fierce protector when they have to go see Rosalind. Tim tries to prevent her from going in. Wanting to shield her from this monster. Lucy refuses says she can handle it. Rosalind just see's someone she can play with. Tim attempts to hold back. Not interfere and tries to keep Lucy steady. Then loses it when she taunts Lucy with her barrel song. The official title of 'Fierce protector.' is born in this moment. Such a good episode for them beginning to end.

~~~

Honorable Mentions

3x02 In-Justice

I adore this ep because it is one giant flirting session. The scene above alone is proof of that. Tim just sitting back and enjoying the Lucy show. Setting up a game he knows she is going to absolutely crush. (and does) They're legit flirting in front of their call for like two minutes before they disengage and Lucy works her magic. Also we get to see how soft Tim is for Lucy and gone for her with her car. Telling her to get over until Caleb PTSD in brought into the picture. It's then he caves instantly. Also the introduction of their pseudo daughter Tamara. Lucy's 'puppy.'

3x04-Sabotage

The fruit of the last couple eps coming to fruition. Lucy having Tim revisit something he did on her first shift. Confronting him about how he treated those gardeners. Not only that but the impact he had on them through his actions. This brings Tim's defenses immediately up and he snaps at her. Trying to defend his actions because he is feeling defensive. He does a poor job of it and shuts down completely. Reason being he's ashamed of who he was then and Lucy bringing it up hurts in a way he wasn't expecting.

We get to see our boy go through some serious growth. MASSIVE growth really. I could not be prouder of him for it. For not shutting down for the rest of the day. Letting Lucy know he was wrong and what he can do so it never happens again. Love this ep for the Tim growth, Lucy calling him out and letting him know how proud she is of him. It's such a good moment/ep for them.

3x07 True Crime

I personally LOVE the documentary episodes so much. The reason being their banter is the best part. Their chemistry is on full display for all to see. Lucy owns Tim's ass in this one. Shoots down all his cocky comments. He is also all heart eyes whenever she isn't crushing him with her words ahha. Light hearted fun ep for them.

3x08 Bad Blood

Good ep for Tim telling her like it is when he's trying to avoid it like the plague haha Emmett breaking up with her over text. Lucy doesn't handle it well. She self destructs till Tim does what he does best and gives her some solid perspective. Helping her finally solve the 'Why' behind her break up.

3x05 Lockdown

Tim and Lucy being a united front against Doug is the absolute best. How Tim comes tearing into the station after Stanton and Lucy has to stop him. Then Stanton is an extra ass and Tim then has to prevent Lucy from hurting him. The way they have each other's backs always gets to me. They spend the entire episode this kick ass duo determined to protect Jackson. I love it sfm.

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Season 4 another super hard one for me but top ten helped.

4x09 Breakdown

I'm sure some of you thought I would choose 4x22. It follows this one pretty closely but I ADORE this episode. It's my favorite for so many reasons. Lucy has a day off and how does she spend it? With Tim and his sister redoing his childhood home. Totally normal 'Friend' status there. Nothing soulmate level about that at all....Then they spend the episode chasing down his father's sordid past. This is due to a gun they find in the wall. Not only that but how heavily Tim leans on Lucy during the process.

Let's her take the lead and trusts her to handle portions of it for him. Like interrogating his dad's former mistress. Then we get this GLORIOUS scene above. Hands down my favorite hug of their's. Tim confronting his father and walking out feeling nuclear in his emotions. He is radioactive from that interaction and so very hurt. He explains what his father did to Lucy. He's so disgusted and hurt.

Then he is NEEDING Lucy to know he isn't his father. That the Tim tests don't make him like his dad. He is on the verge of tears as he says this to her. The most vulnerable we have ever seen Tim in general but especially with her. Lucy jumping into action and gathering him up in her arms. Comforting him, letting him know he is NOTHING like him. Tim sinks into the hug. Wraps himself entirely around her. Letting her hold him up emotionally. It's here we see the last of his wall crumble to the ground never to be rebuilt again. This was the ep I knew we were headed towards them getting together. All time fav ep.

2. 4x22 Day in The Hole

So much to love in this episode. From their daughter getting her ‘first’ car to finding Tim's bizzaro world double 'Dim' LOL Also the introduction of Juicy aha It's so good I can not. Lucy getting beyond excited to get Tim all dressed up for his UC mission. Especially with the tattoo's. Then when Juicy gets involved so does Lucy. It's AU Tim and Lucy and I was dying. Lucy breaks his brain in more ways than one above. The way she stuns him with her UC background for their characters LMAO He stumbles on his words and shifts like his pants are getting little tight for him heh. They haven't even kissed yet.

It will forever crack me up his reaction. Also the hilarious lead up to the kiss. How nervous and awkward they are. 'Well that's romantic....I wasn't trying to be romantic.' LMFAO. Clearly Timothy.... Eric and Melissa's chemistry on full display in this moment. Then the way Lucy just grabs his face and the kiss above happens. How they instantly melt into each other. Like why haven't we been doing this the entire time? You can see Tim ready to seriously deepen the kiss above. The pre-tongue action going on. Hot damn. I remember having to rewind it making sure what I was seeing was real.

The hilarity that ensures when Tamara walks in is so so funny. Never not cackle at this. Lucy's 'Oh!' and Tim is stumbling over himself to get out of there. Makes me laugh just writing it. The awkward 'Good jobs' and pointing. I'm dying. Tim's epiphany in the hallway is the best. Can no longer run from how he feels anymore. That kiss unlocking why he's felt the way he does. The awkward way they interact at the station. Both hiding in their vehicles waiting to find the courage to come out. Gah such a good finale leading to an incredible season 5.

3. 4x12 The Knock

Another episode on the road to them ending up together. They are at soulmate level territory in the scene above alone. The entire episode is fantastic. 'Personal space I don't know her' is the theme of this episode for them. From this 'date' to their case. Where Tim lets her take the lead. They're right on top of each other in that hallway scene when Tim is asking her POV on what they should do.

The beach date is one of the best parts. I don't know how both Ashley and Chris didn't just get up and leave. It's so obvious Tim and Lucy are the ones on a date. Chris and Ashley just happen to be there. The way they flirt the entire time, the inside jokes, the way they know each other so deeply. Their intimate connection on full display.

It's the lack of space I adore so much. That magnetic pull of their's. Never be over Gerald the goat. The way they lovingly stare at each other after he's told the story. The only ones laughing are them. To think either of them (Chris and Ashley) actually thought they had a chance against their bond. Such fools. I would've been highly threatened after that display. Something so intimate about knowing someone on an emotional level like they do. Height of their soulmate moments in this one.

4. 4x18-Backstabbers

Gah this episode be still my damn shipper heart. Lucy getting annoyed she isn't getting any recognition as Tim's aide. Naturally at first Tim pushes against it. Gives her crap for asking for it. Little bit of Old school Tim coming out in this scenario. But we see by the end of the episode him cracking for her. Like he always does. Tim cashing in on the dance he owed her from 3x14. How these two don't know they're in love at this point I couldn't tell you. Blows my damn mind.

The fact that he gives up recognition for her to have it. To further her career and telling her he wants her to be successful? Gah not to mention the heart eyes in this moment. Lucy is beaming brightly like a Christmas tree at this gesture. Tim is so so gone for her by this point it's oozing out of him. If you watched these two above with no context you'd think they were together. Everything about them says how in love they are. The entire scene is one giant I love you/in love with you moment. Tim I don't do weddings Bradford tearing up the dance floor with his girl. Gah I can not.

5. 4x01-Life and Death

The premiere is so very very good. Tim offering her a safe space the moment they get some time alone. Especially after hearing how heartbroken she is. How she can't go back to her apt without Jackson right now. The way he gives her a safe place to crash land into. I love it sfm. Then we get the gloriously intimate and beautiful hug above. The one that sparks the flame between them. One they've been trying to keep at a low flame roaring into an inferno. Their emotions and closeness ramping it up to a level neither is ready for.

The chemistry in this moment is out of this world good. Both being smacked in the face with the growing UST between them. Lucy going for it but it being shot down by Wesley's call. Gah such a good way to start an amazing season. Then Lucy spends the rest of the episode worrying about him from the other side of the world. Letting him know that worry until he makes it back. Such a good premiere.

Honorable Mentions

4x07 Fire Fight

This scene alone is why it's my first honorable mention. Phew lord. The fiery UST in this scene. HOT DAMN. The brazen way they're both looking at each other. This is totally platonic friendship right here....The intense gaze gets me in my shipper feels. Then Tim gets his wits about him a bit before sassing her. Telling her the mic is too high. Her ripping it right off and his face LOL They're so married it kills me. I do love the way she bosses him around in this scene and afterwards when he's in the car. She's projecting jealously entire time.

4x06 Poetic Justice

Oh you know just another episode where all they do is compete and flirt. Not caring about anyone else around them while they do so. Because they can't handle their emotions yet. So they intensely channel it into flirting and competitive things instead. I love these idiots so much.

4x08 -Hit and Run

I LOVE this episode for the Tim background alone. We get the introduction of his sister Genny. Who I love sfm. Lucy of course eats up her being there. She THRIVES on any morsel of info she can get on his background. Lucy is enjoying herself till his dark childhood is brought up. His sister is there to sell their childhood home and he doesn't want to be apart of it. ""Wha-what do you want? Some other family to just cuddle up under the broken plaster where dad slammed my head against the wall?" Ugh my heart. My boy. But it's such a good episode in full for Tim. Also for Lucy getting to meet his sister.

4x14-The Long Shot

This is a great episode for Lucy. We get to see more about her background as well. Finally finding out why her mother is the way she is with her. Her deep digging revealing her father isn't her real father. How much she struggles in this episode emotionally. We get to see how natural it is for Tim to be there for her. Not an ounce of fight left in him to stay out of her personal life. This is just part of who they are now and it's such growth I can not stand it.

4x16-Real Crime

Another gem for the documentary series. If you think they were married in this last one they double down on this one. The amount of cuteness, sass and marriage moments is primo in this one. 'Can I be interviewed alone?' LMAO The epitome of Grumpy x Sunshine. Lucy having the time of her life while Tim is a grumpsaurous. Their dynamic gives me life haha I adore this entire episode for them.

S5 I adore all it's own. If you want a ranking from 1-22 I can do that but I can not choose. Hurts me too much to do that LOL but here are my picks for 1-4. Once again thank you for being so patient on my reply. This was a hefty ask to answer thank you for asking me :) I hope you enjoy the answer.

[absolutebl]

I kinda fell out of the BL game the last several months thanks to irl things, but I think I'm finally feeling like wading fully back in. I started with Love Syndrome III(only because @heretherebedork piqued my interest) and just finished Moonlight Chicken. What should I watch next? My limits are romanticized sexual assault, cheating, miscommunication as a main plot point, and no HEA. I could also do without a straight side couple, but I'd tolerate it if the main plot and couple are really good. Bonus points if there's a D/s dynamic, but that's not 100% necessary.

Thanks ❤️

Best of 2023 So Far?

Of course darling!

Hum last several months? Let's see...

Our Dating Sim (Viki) - if you haven't watched this it's a must. I actually handed out a 10/10. I NEVER do that. I can't tell you how much I loved this show (or have already rewatched it). It's a perfect short form KBL, an office set reunion romance featuring geeks that really suits 8 eps with no fluff and no chaff. Just comforting and yummy. Full review.

The New Employee (Viki) - just so good, SO QUEER, so soft, a near pitch perfect office BL with conflict derived from that setting. Also... Rainbow Rice Cakes and found fam and a lesbian bestie and all the goodness. My review is on MDL.

The Eighth Sense (Viki) - speaking of queer, this one is a bit rough (sticky and gritty), more in the Moonlight Chicken area. But very high quality, fabulous chemistry, and a remarkably complex offering for a KBL - think Blueming-esk but even better.

Unintentional Love Story (iQIYI) - @heretherebedork and I LOVED this one, but it is kinda hard to get hold of. I found the seme a bit stiff and reserved but Gongchan (who plays the uke) is a fucking GIFT. He has THE MOST expressive eyes, just drown in the emoting abyss. The external conflict tension and pressure is complex and excellent plus Korea gave us legit side dishes (NOT a love triangle, hally-fucking-luya). Review on MDL.

My School President (YouTube) - I adored this one! My favorite GMMTV offering in dog's age, and my new favorite pair GeminiFourth. It could have gotten a 10/10 from me but for too much singing. This is the side pair from Moonlight Chicken anchoring a high school BL full of the most teenage pining ever and it's GREAT.

All the Liquors (Viki, Gaga) - another KBL hitting hard and solid. This one is KBL-weird in the way of Tasty Florida or Behind Cut (which I've gotten used to, but is kinda a "type" now). It will wig you out if you have any baggage around alcohol. The logic behind the phobias are typically Asian romance qua? BUT it's still quite cute.

Never Let Me Go (YT) - of GMMTV handing out new series to established pairs this has been the most successful IMHO. PondPhuwin were about 10000x better in this than FUTS (and that's FUTS's fault, not theirs). It's typically Thai in that its a bit bloated and has a confusing plot, but at least it HAD a plot and the central relationship is solid and loyal. Their Our Skyy 2 follow up is also good. And very much adds to the cannon in a fun way rather than feeling superfluous - making this show ultimately 14 eps rather than the usual 12.

Bed Friend (YT, iQIYI, Gaga) - speaking of a bit bloated, this one derailed somewhat in plot for me (even at 10 eps) but NetJames really are glorious, and absolutely the hottest and the prettiest of 2023. Full of triggers for childhood abuse and sexual assault (backstory), but the main pair is very communication-heavy and based on a fuck buddy premise which has negotiation and everything, unique & fun to see. This is my high heat rec for the year so far, because the heat is PART OF THE PLOT and that's a gift we don't usually get. Review on MDL.

Between Us (iQIYI) - I'm still processing this one. I didn't have as high expectations as most but it was still a little disappointing. BounPrem are lovely of course, but somehow it just wasn't quite what I wanted. I did a watch along for this one so you can see me struggle. However, objectively, held up against other BLs? It's actually pretty darn good.

I hope some of these you haven't seen. None have romanticized sexual assault, cheating, or miscommunication as a main plot point (hum... maybe Between Us? Honestly I can't remember the plot points, it was all over the place), and all have HEA (this is me after all(.

[imagionationstation]

Slskskdk ur rants and dissections of any scene with the bros are so GOOD. I be disintegrating like that gif from the post I reblogged sslsk. I always go back and rewatch them with a new understanding and I'm kicking my feet and giggling like a maniac over it.

Thank u 4 ur service soldier🫡 ur work is a astounding and a key component 2 the tmnt fandom/ecosystem with the others. Goodness knows where we'd be without them🫡

(Also sksksk u knew👁️👁️ I WAS thinking about u when I saw that post)

Aforementioned disintegrating gif link here.

HAHA! Not only am I prideful, but I was RIGHT!

That feel good. I love the dopamine of success almost as much as the dopamine of “you believe that? NICE! I DO TOO!”

Also I love validation because there’s so many scenes that have me kicking my feet and then rubbing my hands like HECK YEAH LOVE AND BONDING like this one scene from the Squirrelanoid ep that has been on loop in my brain this week that’ll be just SO SATISFYING to share when I find the time to take screenshots and write thoughts.

Before Tumblr, I usually had “it’s cute that you like that but it’s not that big a deal” people to rant at and it’s nice that they let me rant, but the knowledge that there were humans out there that felt the same way??? Who wanted more?? WHO CARED DEEPLY???

Didn’t cross my mind as a possibility until I grew more comfortable online. Now I can’t shut up about turtles. TIS THE BEST!

*salutes* I do my best to serve the community! The fandom and the show deserve nothing less than the best I can offer.

Even if that means ticking people off because I will not pretend to be cool with certain tropes like Mikey is abused fans wish me too.

I have other rants and observations lined up, but I keep working on all of them at the same time and now I have, like, five asks in my drafts of unfinished essays. (You guys are amazing. I appreciate every one!)

I need to prioritize one but I love them all. The struggle is real.

Anyways~

You followers and rebloggers and pokers of the like button-

You all seriously rock! 2012Fandom is alive because of you!

[moonsorchid]

Rewatching ep.28 of Love Between Fairy and Devil

Part 2

(spoilers ahead)

So, where were we? Oh, yes, Xunfeng being Xunfeng

I love how DFQC simply smiles at Xiao Lanhua and they both go ahead and ignore Xunfeng

“Hatred is the foundation of the Moon Tribe.” *sigh* Xunfeng, my dear boy

“You made my brother indulge in love and neglect his duties” translation: Why no one loves me? Also, when did DFQC neglect his duties? Well, apart from the hellfire hiccup

“And you connected your lives through the One Heart Curse.” It’s not like she did it on purpose, dude. She doesn’t even know how she did it

Look at his face. Leave my babies alone, Xunfeng!

Xiao Lanhua has grown so much from that childish, carefree fairy. Even her voice is more mature. She states reasons why she has to go into the cave, using valid and logical arguments. And that is why I don’t understand people who refuse to watch it only due to her baby voice in the first episodes. It’s called character development

Their first fight as a couple. “No, I will sacrifice my life for you.” – “No, I will.” They sound as if they have already been married for 30000 years

So much angst. There is a fanfic waiting to be written here where he grabs her, kisses her and they have crazy make up s*x

Xiao Lanhua, as I am rewatching this, my respect for you has grown immensely. She never cowered in front of him, she offered well structured arguments that he couldn’t refute, and she proved to him and his people that she wants to be perceived as an equal to the Moon Supreme, and not a trophy or someone he has to break rules for in order to protect her

Earlier, DFQC took a step back in his character development, regressing to his villainous ways, issuing an order stating that those who will mention the rule about the cave will be killed. But her stance prevents him from becoming the evil, authoritative ruler he once was. (There is also probably a slight fear in the back of his mind that she might not make it out of the cave alive and that would mean that he would die too. However, that is a fear he has to face and trust her)

Paused to admire how beautiful this scene is  

You are the best, Xiao Lanhua, and I love you

“You made all the decisions yourself. You did whatever you wanted. You never asked me about my thoughts. But we are going to be husband and wife now. Then things should change. There is no hierarchy between a couple. No matter what happens, we have to face it together. Can you respect that?” I have no words, she is simply amazing

Side rant. Their love is so deep and transcendent because it is based on principles, respect, friendship, communication, not merely in physical attraction. There could never be a better partner for DFQC than Xiao Lanhua. She was the one who helped him heal his feelings, face his demons, get in touch with his authentic self and had the courage to face him as an equal. And in return, he was the one who challenged her to mature, to find her strength, and treat herself with the utmost respect and love she was never given. Side rant over

Xunfeng just happened to have on him the elixir that will prevent DFQC from feeling her suffering

And of course Xunfeng is feeling regrets: No, don’t go into the cave, I only said it so that you would give up. I don’t want you to suffer. I am not the bad guy here. I never meant to cause such trouble, I was just trying to scare you. My brother will never forgive me. I am laughing, Xunfeng, I am laughing so much

I can’t explain why, but I love this scene. Words fail me, I am just feeling emotional

Babieeeees

I won’t cry, I won’t cry

No, poor Xiao Lanhua :(

See you in ep. 29

[coffeelovesdramasalatte]

LITA Ep 3 Rewatch Thoughts Pt. 2

Part 1 here!

Ok I am HERE for this encouragement - I love that Phayu is always supportive of Rain's academic talents

Apparently Rain is not immune to Phayu's pout either. Good, a relationship should be built on equality

pls observe this cutie omfg no wonder Phayu can't take his eyes off him

i genuinely feel like this shot did something to my brain chemistry. i kid you not one of my main goals in life is to have someone do this to me (by which I mean I want to be in Rain's position). I would also ignore homework and all my responsibilities if someone looked at and held me like that pls

P'Aon so true, Boss WAS smiling like an idiot (in love)

Poor Rain, these were famous last words :( (I too have uttered them many a time until I realized I am not a nap-taker)

ETHEREAL

Is this a rock cover of flight of the bumblebee playing in the background??? POOR RAIN HE STAYED UP ALL NIGHT TO DO THIS :((((

Ok but this is actually a very important lesson that I'm glad they included. It's true that Rain finished the work on time, but he also should have ensured he got enough sleep and made it to the presentation on time. He's still in his first year so he has a lot of time to grow. The actual important line is this one below.

It was a harsh way of phrasing it, but it's true. Setbacks are a very normal part of life and everyone makes "mistakes" (missing deadlines, not being able to finish a project, etc). I put that in quotes because sometimes, these things are at no fault of the person. It is possible to put 100% of your effort into finishing something and not get it done (which, aside from Rain's poor time management, he actually did put in a lot of effort to this project). Failing at something even after putting in a lot of hard work sucks, but being able to pick up after that and still work hard is what makes a person successful. I related extra hard to this scene because I failed a class in my major during my first year of college even though all I did was study, and it put me back a full year bc it's only offered certain semesters and was required to move forward in the degree. I took it again the following year and was smarter about how I studied and even still, I almost failed again. But I liked my major enough to keep at it and somehow still managed to graduate on time and now I'm in grad school, so... (that was an unnecessary story but to reiterate, failure is normal and ok)

AWW look at him putting on a facade for his friends... I think it's interesting that he doesn't confide in Sky here

but instead flies to the garage... Even I questioned this

P'Saifah is a good bro, calling Phayu immediately to come comfort his in-law. Phayu is good here too, immediately grabbing his things to come running

I think I speak for all of us when I say watching Phayu ride in the heavy rain was nerve-wracking bc we were expecting an accident or something

OK this scene. THIS SCENE. Utterly perfect in every way, from the moment concerned Phayu walks through the door to see a drenched, teary Rain waiting for him. Something blue-yellow is going on here too methinks

There's something so incredibly intimate about the way Phayu crouches down to Rain's level, and then beckons him into his arms. His words too are so gentle, and he just holds Rain as he cries.

As opposed to many other sweet scenes, this sequence + the one after Rain comes out of the bathroom is actually the one that makes me most jealous of PhayuRain. There is nothing more valuable than having someone you can fall apart into and trust that they'll hold the pieces of you together. And honestly, in the grand scheme of things Rain didn't mess up horribly - it feels monumental to him bc it's probably the first time he's missed a deadline. It's important that Phayu still treats the situation with the gravity of something more serious, bc it shows how much he cares. And after Rain has calmed down, he advises him on how to do better next time without sugarcoating, but also sharing that he experienced similar things during his days as a student.

I'mma need Rain to zip it bc he looks perfect, as usual

I really like the framing in this scene where he's looking into the mirror and then introspecting "why did I put up a front with other people and then cry in front of him? idk but I'm thankful" - he's reflecting mentally and physically!!!

Can't believe a drama is out here giving important life lessons but I'm here for it. I also like that Phayu shows a bit of vulnerability by sharing that he got criticized too, and that Rain will be able to recover from it.

HEADPAT x 2

This is another set of shots that altered my brain chemistry. Who taught them to look at each other like this, hm? Rain looks so vulnerable and Phayu might as well be cradling Rain's soul in his hands ft. headpat

The way Rain tilts his head up? Exquisite

I'd also feel very motivated if I was in Rain's place. Phayu actually makes another few interesting points here - he says what's done is done, and then tells Rain to not dwell on it and take care of himself. Interestingly enough (story time pt 2 you can skip if you want). I watched this scene very soon after I missed a paper submission deadline for a conference. It's not the biggest deal, especially because my professor knew it was a big ask to finish an entire research project in the timeline he gave me and he wasn't even remotely upset about it (long story short I only had 2 weeks notice to flesh out the idea, get the data, analyze the data, and write the research paper - but you can't really control how long things take you when you do research bc the point is that it hasn't been done before). So even though no one reprimanded me, I still felt really upset bc I had made up my mind that I was going to do this impossible task and couldn't. To hear Phayu's reminder that I can be upset but I shouldn't spend too long being sad to the point I neglect to take care of myself was honestly nice. It also helped to put things into perspective that yes, I couldn't submit to this particular conference, but there are so many that happen all the time so it's not like the research is wasted - just pull yourself together and try for the next one. Anyways, I'm done treating y'all like my personal diary now <3

Yay, Rain feels comforted and finally smiles! It's like seeing the sun after a storm (literally) AND something yellow-blue is happening here

Post-credits garage brothers content!! This exchange is hilarious bc P'Saifah goes 'ah [Rain] is in the palm of your hand' as Rain's leaving, but then the show makes it literal bc Phayu's holding a picture of Rain in his palm via the phone screen, which also signifies to the viewer that Phayu is also in the palm of Rain's hand. Again, we love relationships built on equality hehe

I love that they let us see the moment Phayu decided to pursue Rain (he's looking at the picture of Rain on his phone for the first time - though I do question why the senior just randomly sent him a photo of Rain? Like at this point Phayu is an alumni of the frat so why just send an isolated photo of a freshman to him?? we'll never know I guess)

And that's episode 3! If you made it this far, I hope at least some of this was entertaining! Have a lovely day or night, whenever you're reading this <3 See you in the next one!!

[sathellio]

it's genloss ep 3 rewatch time! let's see if I cry this time

1. OH MY GOD I don't remember the last time I watched this episode and THE INTRO?? GOES SO HARD??? the glitches, the drone footage, the MUSIC??? ugh, perfection. literally took my breath away

2. hi gl!Ranboo, we are here, we want to help so badly (I feel so much despair at their ask for help)

3. I forgot how much the soundtrack in this ep adds to the ambience. it just feels so perfect for an abandoned mall where you don't know what to do, how to move forward

4. poor gl!Ranboo was just so scared. I think the only reason he trusts Hetch is because, well, what else can he do in this moment? he doesn't know where he is or presumably how he got there in the first place, so he clings to the first and only person to offer help, and that becomes his downfall

5. oh god, Hetch plants the idea that we, the audience, are not to be trusted. he says "they can't control you anymore." yes, it's true to some extent that we controlled him sometimes, but by saying "control" instead of "help" or some other, more positive connotating word, Hetch is making sure that Ranboo doesn't trust us, also making them trust Hetch more. it's an us vs them mindset. no wonder gl!Ranboo probably thought we killed him out of hate :(

6. oh, one of Ranboo's first thoughts being that he could have helped the others :(

7. "the police can handle this I can't handle this" ow ow ow :(

8. "that's security, you won't have to worry about it" yeah Charlie's the one that has to worry about it (I'm sorry)

9. oh Hetch said he reprogrammed the employees to think Ranboo is part of the show, but he really didn't because he Is still part of the show

10. "how long have I been here" :(

11. when Ranboo is searching the office for the usb he finds a little army dude just like the one found in Charlie in ep 2. do you think the employees donated all the things Charlie had or,,,

12. on the day 1 plan whiteboard there's magnet letters spelling out "newspeak." did we ever figure out what that's for?

13. "looks like they've upped security since, uh" since last time? :(

14. I saw someone say that in the heart of the facility the place where Ranboo enters the code looks like lungs, and that made me realize all the tubes and wires around that are like intestines and arteries respectively. even the colors make sense for that

15. remember how I said Hetch planted the idea that the audience is not to be trusted? yeah, that's why it didn't matter what code we picked. gl!Ranboo was too scared of us

16. who's blood is it at security when the door is opened? an employee?

17. oo the fire alarm adds so much (so silly it wasn't planned)

18. ugh the corridor running scene <3

19. Charlie saying he needs longer legs, silly

20. Hetch refers to himself as The Hetch, clue to his identity or him just being a weirdo?

21. gl!Ranboo murder arc rahhh

22. man the reveal of the cabin gets me every time

23. they already reset the cabin. they're ready for the next show

24. just Everything about it between the cabin reveal and the button press

25. no the music and the light and the birds and oh he almost made it :'(

26. AHHH THE BOW AND HETCH AND THE SLOW RISE WITH THE MASK ON THEN NOOOOOOOOO

27. god this is so painful :(

28. the subtle change in Ranboo's eyes when Hetch says the audience gets to pick oh god

29. the way Ranboo gets quieter as they weigh the options

30. I think the feeling of choosing death will live with me forever. the way the majority chose live at first because of course we want to save them. and then we heard what will happen, and we tried so hard to 50/50 it because we couldn't accept either option. the moment Ranboo begged for death it switched over. the long pause before Hetch announces the result when we know what was chosen lets our decision sink in. and then it's done. we were forced to speedrun the five stages of grief, or at least the first four

31. the way we can hear gl!Ranboo's last breath before the box closes? god

32. the way, when the lights go red and there's silence and all we can do is watch, it finally looks like a heart with all the veins and blood. roll credits and tears roll down my face

33. and then, of course, it's just another tape. nothing special. just an experiment

god I love generation loss so so much and I'm so so excited to see where it will go in the future. see y'all June 15th I guess

[where-theres-smoak-2]

Loki 2x5 Voices Analysis

Spoilers for 2x5.

I was rewatching ep 5 and got to the scene right as Loki learns to control his time-slipping, he hears all these voices and they are kind of quiet and jumbled together but I did wonder if there could be any clues in those lines that might tell us what is going to happen to our characters, or just any other parallels or interesting connections.

So I turned on the trusty subtitles and I figured, as I've got some time to kill, I'd go through each line and talk about what I think the significance of it might be, as a quick note I haven't done these in the order that they are spoken in the scene as some characters had multiple lines. Also this is all just my own interpretation and opinions.

As I said above I do think there could possibly be some hints in here as to where are characters are ultimately going to end up, but I also think it tells us a lot about what Loki wants and what he was thinking about in this moment as he was losing everything.

O.B/ A.D Doug: It was a fiction problem.

To be honest if these are supposed to be hints as to where our characters could end up at the end of the finale then I haven't really figured out what this might mean for O.B. The line is in reference to the conversation he had with Loki earlier about the difference between a science problem and a fiction problem. Like science says its impossible for Loki to time travel in the TVA a place that supposedly has no time and that it's impossible for him to go back to the moment the Loom exploded and fix it , yet fiction says that he can, fiction says the impossible can become possible.

So maybe this line was added to remind us the audience but also Loki himself that if he embraces it as a fiction problem then maybe he can do the impossible, like going back and rewriting the story.

It could also be a nod to this idea of authors and the power they hold, the power fiction holds. You've got O.B, who was the author of the TVA handbook which played a very important part in this season, Victor Timely and how O.B based his work off of him and how Victor in turn based his work of O.B's creating that Ouroboros imagery. You also have HWR who very much played the part of the playwriter, dictator everyone's lives for them. Now you've got Loki who has figured out that he can be the author now and rewrite the story.

Another nod it could be to is the season 1 finale where Miss Minutes makes Sylvie and Loki an offer on HWR's behalf, telling them he can put them on the timeline together and give them everything they've ever wanted. Sylvie's response to this is that it is fiction and Loki follows up with We write our own destinies now. You also had Sylvie say earlier in this episode 'we are all writing our own stories now, you should go write yours.' So maybe this line is just playing into this idea of rejecting the story someone else has pathed out for you and instead embracing the power of writing your own story on your own terms.

As for what it might mean for OB I'm not fully sure but I do think there is more to OB than we know as he often seems to be the odd one out. Unlike the rest of the gang he doesn't seem to have had his memory wiped when HWR invented the timekeepers and began to work more in the shadows. He's the only one who doesn't have a team to work with in his department at the TVA, whilst all the others where in timelines with 2's in them, 1962, 1982, 2012 and 2022, but O.B is the odd one out with his branch being set in 1994. There just always seems to be something slightly off about him and I do think we might get some kind of big surprise reveal about his character at some point in the finale. What that reveal could be and whether its good or bad, I have no idea. Maybe if they form a new TVA and O.B stays he'll be given the role of like story protector or Story recorder, in charge of making sure people get to write their own stories and then recording those stories, if that makes sense. But I'm just kind of throwing ideas out here I really don't have a solid idea of where they might take his character, but I'd love to hear everyone else's theories.

B-15: I looked happy.

This line by B-15 I thought was really interesting because its from season 1 but also because she doesn't actually say it to Loki, he's not even present when she does say it, she says it to Sylvie after Sylvie shows her the life she had on the timeline.

For B-15 seeing her past life was a big moment for her, it changed her entire perspective of the TVA and there work they were doing. She realised how wrong it was that the TVA had kidnapped workers from their lives on the timeline, that they had lied to them, that they pruned so many timelines and variants, people, for what was actually a lie. Immediately she decided to do something about it, to fight to protect those timelines. She is the one that convinces the Judge to change her opinion on the future of the TVA and who tried to appeal to Dox as well.

I've been of the opinion since the start of season 2 that B-15 given a choice would choose to stay at the TVA instead of going back to her life on the timeline. At first when I heard this line I thought it might have debunked that theory and maybe it was hinting that actually B-15 would return to her timeline as she was happy there and that is one possibility.

But having thought about it some more, I do think there is still an argument to be made that she would choose to stay at the TVA as it could be a case of the context of what she is saying being more important than what she is saying. As I said, I think this moment is the moment she changed her motivation and view of what the TVA really was but also what it could be. It was the moment she decided that she wasn't going to let what happened to her happen to anyone else, no one else was going to lose their happy life on her watch, type of goal. So I still think B-15 will decide that she'll make more of a difference at the TVA than going back to her life.

I said that I also thought that these lines could tell us something about what Loki was thinking and what he really wants and I actually think this line is telling us that he doesn't just want his friends to be safe, he wants them to be happy to, it could be a hint that when the time comes he'll give the option to return to their lives back to them, because as much as he wants his friends with him, he also wants them to be happy, so he makes that sacrifice of letting them go for their own happiness.

Casey: The TVA...

So the only thing Casey says is two simple words, The TVA. So I think this will mean that Casey will be one of those who chooses to stay at the TVA. I mean his life on the timeline isn't the happiness and he even asked when Loki said that they should all go back home, if they had to go back to exactly where they were, so its obvious that he doesn't particularly want to go back to his life. At the TVA Casey has friends, people who think like him like OB, and he is useful, he can help people, so I think Casey will get a promotion and will continue with his life at the TVA.

As for what this line tells us about what Loki was thinking/wanting well I think this one is an obvious one, he wants the TVA back, its the one place where he has felt like he has a purpose, where he can be good and do good, where he had friends. So it makes sense that the TVA would be in his thoughts as he sees everything slipping away from him.

The rest of lines are also very interesting as both Sylvie and Mobius/Don get more lines than the others, where they only get one, Sylvie and Mobius get three each. I think the reason for this is because they are the two most important people in his life at the moment, the ones he is closest to, its the woman he loves and his best friend. He cares and loves them both in particular and he really respects their opinions and advice. So it makes sense that its their voices that are the most predominant in this moment.

Mobius

So lets start with Mobius and what he says in this moment. The three lines are actually two quotes split into three, the first is:

'No I have to go back to see my boys.'

And the second that is split into two is a quote from season 1 from the scene when he gets pruned:

'If I could go anywhere...'

'Where ever it is I am really from.'

So this may be an unpopular opinion amongst some fans but I think these lines make it pretty clear where Mobius is going to end up come the end of the series, back with his boys on the timeline. But I don't think this necessarily has to mean the end for his character in future MCU projects. I actually had a thought about what Mobius/Don's role could be going forward in the MCU. It seems like Clint Barton's character is going to be phased out, retired. One important role Clint played in the MCU was that he was the 'ordinary' guy who was also a hero. He didn't have a special power, or a fancy high tech suit, he had his bow and his arrows, but he was also a father, he had a family. This was important for reminding the audience of how high the stakes were and what the consequences of the heroes losing were. If something happened to Clint then it would deeply effect his family and vice versa. I think Mobius could fill this role going forward, he'd be the dad, the 'ordinary' guy who still does what has to be done because he understands what the stakes are if he doesn't. So I could see him living a happy life on his timeline with his boys but where he joins the team when the need arises and helps Loki protect everyone before going back to his family again.

Going back to what this tells us about what Loki wants and thinks, I again think this shows us how much Loki cares about his friends. He's thinking about how Mobius/Don has been ripped away from his kids, from his life and I think it comes back to Loki just wanted his friends to be happy, even if that means letting them go back to their timelines. I also think Loki might be feeling a little guilty here as Sylvie had helped him see that he had pulled the gang away from their timelines more for his own selfish reasons than because he thought it was what was best for them. Don/Mobius could have been back in his timeline with his boys, instead he has this moment of fear and panic as he sees people turning to spaghetti and realises that he could be next and his boys will be left alone. So that is also playing on Loki's mind.

Sylvie

So Sylvie's lines in this moment were the most interesting to me. So here are the three lines she says:

'Everything is falling apart.'

'What's wrong with wanting something?'

'Do you think that what makes a Loki a Loki is the fact that we're destined to lose?'

When it comes to the falling apart line I think this is again telling us more about what Loki is feeling and wanting in this moment. Like Mobius/Don's line about needing to see his boys, this line reminds Loki that Sylvie's branch, the one where he was told that she was happy in and had made her a life on was now gone. Loki wanted Sylvie to be ok and yet he wasn't able to protect her timeline like he kept promising the TVA could do, so again its playing into the feeling of guilt and failure he is feeling in this moment. Its showing us how much he cares for his friends, he wants them to be happy, he wants them to be ok but right now they are all lost to him.

The line asking what's wrong with wanting something is particularly interesting to me. Sylvie says this to Loki right after he says that everything turned out the way she wanted and that she was selfish and she replied that of course she was selfish, that she wanted a life and then she asks him that question of what's wrong with wanting. I feel like all his life Loki has been told he's wrong for wanting, he was wrong for wanting to be heir over his brother, he was wrong for wanting to rule, he was wrong for wanting to have a purpose. He's never been allowed to actually get what he wants, so I think he now has come to associate wanting something as selfish and as something bad. But Sylvie is asking him to question that to ask himself if wanting something is really wrong.

I am going to come back to this subject of wanting in a moment but I want to talk about the last line that Sylvie says as I think it ties in with the line about wanting. The interesting thing about the last line, loki's being destined to lose, is that out of all the lines its the loudest and clearest. It's this line that helps Loki gain control of his time-slipping, I think that remembering that line combined with seeing Sylvie disappear in front of him, makes him think, no I'm not losing this time. I mentioned in another post that something else that is significant about this line is that it refers back to Sylki's nexus moment in 1x4. It's the moment that they feel that romantic connection to each other, that shift in their relationship into something deeper. I think its kind of beautiful that as Loki is losing everything that its that reminded of his love for Sylvie, the love that he has for all his friends that allows him to unlock that control and power over the time-slipping, allowing him to have the chance of saving all those he cares about.

I said that I thought the line about wanting something and loki's being destined to lose were connected, this is because Loki believes two things, he's not allowed to have what he wants, it would be selfish and that he is destined to lose. When it comes to the conclusion of this season in order for it to be satisfying, in my opinion, two things need to happen. Loki needs to win and he needs to get what he wants and accept that its ok to want it.

So if we look back over the last two seasons what do we know Loki wants? Loki is really bad at communicating what he wants, likely due to this shame he feels around wanting anything, I mean Sylvie really had to push to get him to admit to something as simply as wanting his friends back. But I think looking between the lines we can figure it out.

Loki wants to have a purpose. There's this running theme with the Loki's having this glorious purpose and without a purpose Loki is kind of lost.

In episode 1x5, Loki also talks about wanting to find a life with Sylvie, when they are talking about what they'll do after they've got to the end of time and defeated HWR Loki says they could figure it out together. Also when Miss Minutes offers for them to be on the timeline together, they both look hopeful for a moment, like that is something they both longed for.

We also know that he wants Sylvie to be ok. He tells her in 1x06 that he didn't want a throne, he just wanted her to be ok. When he find her on the timeline and she told him she was happy there, Loki backed off and instead focused on fixing the loom and by extension protecting the life she had created for herself.

We also know that he wants to help turn the TVA into a force of good, something that can protect as we see him trying to convince Sylvie that the TVA could be used this way.

He wants to protect his friends, he wants to have his friends with him. He tells Sylvie after the Loom explodes that he wants his friends back. But I also think he wants his friends to be happy.

He doesn't want to be alone and he wants to find where he belongs.

So for me the worst ending for Loki would be if he ends up alone, without a purpose or a home.

I did have one theory based on the clips of Loki entering the loom without a suit in the trailers and its one that I really hate and I will cry if it happens, so naturally I am going to share it with you all so you can suffer with me. But I did think that maybe Loki will sacrifice himself in order to safe his friends. However I don't think whatever he does to the loom will kill him I think it will send him and trap him at the end of time, like maybe whatever he does cuts the end of time off from the TVA and there is no way to get there, Loki can still control the timelines and guard them against any HWR variants coming through but he can't return, it could be a parallel to Thor's story in the first Thor film where he makes the choice to destroy the Bifrost and cut off his way back to Jane but saving lives in the process, and Jane then trying to find a way to reopen that connection. Maybe we'll get some hope with Sylvie and the TVA using HWR tempad to try and figure out a way of getting back to the end of time and bringing back Loki but that it will be left open ended and we don't get the answer as to whether they ever actually managed to get there.

As much as I'll admit it would be a nice parallel between Thor and Loki and it would paint Loki as the hero, I still don't want this to happen, I just feel like Loki has lost enough and deserves to win for a change. The only way I could except this happening is if Sylvie and the gang do find a way to open that connection up and maybe Sylvie chooses to join Loki at the end of time, like HWR and Ravonna had planned, that way at least neither of them are alone.

Another option is that they both end up running the TVA together. I know alot of people think Sylvie will end up settling on her timeline and that would be a suitable happy ending for her, I personally don't agree. I think the show has made it clear that whilst Sylvie claims she is happy on her branch, actually there is something missing and she is lonely, people who are happy and content don't tend to listen to songs about loneliness and not feeling satisfied with your life like Sylvie often does. Also I think if they both run the TVA together there could be a kind of ironic poetry to it. They would essentially do exactly what HWR offered them in the season 1 finale, to rule together, but they would have got there their own way. Followed their own path there. It could be a good way of bringing their story full circle.

2X6 Prediction Summary.

So here's a quick summary of how I think the finale will go for each of our characters.

Loki and Sylvie will run the TVA together, or sit at the end of time together.

Casey, B-15 and possibly O.B (still unsure on him) will choose to stay at the TVA but will be given important roles within the new organisation.

Mobius will go back to his sons and life on the timeline but will still make sure that they know he is available if they ever need his help.

Anyway I've rambled on enough now, I might do a proper prediction post of everything I think might happen in the finale before the episode but that's all my thoughts for now.

[lou-iz-stat]

So……. 2 MORE WEEKS!… and it still does not feel real to me that we are going to get season 2 so soon. I am sure it will destroy me and create an everlasting wound deep in my soul.

Anyway episode 6! I won’t lie this the episode that I have watched the most out of the rest. I have probably watched it over 15 times and that is not an exaggeration. It’s my fav episode because there are just so many iconic moments in this one.

Let’s not waste another moment. Get into this!

IWTV S1 E6: Like Angels Put in Hell by God

This ep starts with Louis looking real bad as he tries to recover from the drop inflicted on him by Lestat.

He definitely has PTSD from the fall 😔

At least we get the ‘cloud gift’ name drop.

We also have Dr. Fareed which is a character that is most prominent in the Prince Lestat trilogy I believe. I do not know if this is true I have not read that far yet.

We then go back to the story and Claudia is making Louis chase a goat for his recovery.

And here comes Lestat being where he is not wanted. The throwing of his coffin out the balcony is everything 🤣

When Lestat comes to give the car to Louis I must admit he looks so so good 😩 But I still don’t want Louis to let him back in! Because I know he has not changed even though he says so.

But I do believe that if Louis did tell him to leave and to never see him again Lestat would listen! But he doesn’t tell him that because he still can’t let Lestat go even after everything he has done. It’s too much!

Lestat is crazy for what he does with ‘Come to Me’ but I love when Sam sings it ❤️

And this what. I am talking about when I say that so much of this episode is so iconic! Swimming a dirty ass river to break into your exe’s place and telling Antoinette to leave HER HOUSE so that you can have violent hate sex while she is just outside listening to it all. It’s just so messy and insane! Gotta love it

Sam Reid is just so so good in the scene where they are questioning Lestat! His acting is just *chef’s kiss*

And everything he tells them of how he became a vampire is true 😭

“…I loved Lestat with a wounded one.” 😭😭😭

Yes Claudia you should baaaaaa at him!

Nooooo Claudia what he said about Magnus was true!

More Nicky name dropping this episode. And knowing the backstory with that I just wince at the whole conversation they are having. But what can I say she really is her father’s daughter

And of course he didn’t kill Antoinette being a brat so much so that he did not like being told what to do. And yes Louis he is ‘all kinds of fucked up’ and this why I love this show. Everybody is fucked up just some more than others.

Ugh the scene where Claudia tries to get Louis to leave with her breaks my heart.

Then we go back to modern day and this is where in the original interview Daniel wanted to be turned. And ohhhhh Armand is not happy that Louis offers to turn Daniel now hehe

The utter shock I had when Claudia is just sitting in the townhouse instead of on a train. 😱

But oh, oh! The train scene is everything. It is just so fucked up and scary! This show is in the horror genre after all. And that doesn’t stop this scene from being iconic.

From “Tickets, please!” To “Claudia, you left without saying goodbye…. Again” it just lives rent free in my head.

God he such an asshole to her!

And she defeats him at chess at the same time that she is plotting his murder! That’s some queen shit honestly.

When Lestat is shouting in French, if you ever look up what he is saying it is actually so unsettling

Awwww our boy (Daniel) is eeppy

I don’t care what anyone says I love the 70s flashback.

And boom! As we all know Rashid is actually someone Daniel has met before! Shocker! Yeah yeah it’s Armand we know this.

Yay! I got through another one! We only have one more rewatch then s2! I cannot believe it and again it does not feel real at all! I am sure by next week I’ll be able to write more since I won’t have as much school work left to do.

Thanks for reading

14 days!!!!! Life is worth living!

[pinkberrypocky]

pmmm rewatch live notes: ep 2

hihi back for my ep 2 notes! idk what to say other than that tbh i had so much to say before ep 1 notes but nothing new same deal. enjoy :)

madoka wakes up from a dream of what happened the day before which mirrors the first ep and implies that the first “dream” was a memory

the daily morning routine stays the same even though madoka’s world has been irrevocably changed 

mami lives alone which shows again a level of maturity that doesn’t match their age 

kyubey says magical girls are “duty bound to fight witches” what a convenient way to not mention that they need to fight witches to survive 

sayaka ponders potential wishes like riches and fame which shows her naivety 

madoka's mom talks about giving her boss and break and maybe moving up the ladder at work showing her maturity 

mami says that many suicides are caused by witches which is a Wild thing to say considering that becoming a magical girl is essentially signing a contract to become a witch and die so it’s essentially a suicide contract a suicide due to a witch

mami invited them to see her fight a witch so that they can see the reality of it before committing 

but at the same time she puts on an air that she is more put together an unaffected bc she wants them to feel protected and also bc she selfishly doesn’t want to fight alone anymore 

hitomi wondering how sayaka and madoka got so close over a night and assuming it’s romance is another reminder that they’re young innocent naive girls who shouldn’t be going through these horrors 

mami is such a good name for her bc her whole thing is protecting and guiding like a mother i think this homophone is intentional 

mami and sayaka assume homura is being selfish about rewards and that’s why she doesn’t want madoka to be a magical girl but really homura is being selfless bc she’s saving madoka like she asked her in the past even though she wants to be together with madoka where they can understand each other

sayaka says that they are blissfully ignorant fools for not knowing what to wish for and acknowledges that the two of them are privileged and that’s why they are struggling with kyubey’s offer

opens up a conversation about how upbringing and social status has an impact on who is more or less susceptible to fall into dangerous situations 

sayaka stands protectively in front of madoka when homura comes to talk to them on the roof

when madoka asks homura what she wished for she stops, gives a long look at madoka, and wordlessly walks away

mami calling her showing sayaka and madoka the daily life of a magical girl “magical girl class” lightens it to a level that doesn’t match the severity of the situation

same w sayaka’s bat and madoka’s drawings 

sayaka says “it's a lot less exciting than i was expecting” about tracking the witch which is a crazy thing to say considering mami died in like the next episode

sayaka is really pissed off by homura while  madoka tried to understand her 

reminiscent of how the two of them interact w homura and kyoko later on

red and orange background as they track down a witch w mami

red shoes of the woman about to commit suicide that mami sayaka and madoka save

witch kiss on the woman is red too

mami’s soul gem glints in her hat which is important considering it means it gets destroyed when her head is bit off and that’s why the injury kills her

in the labyrinth madoka doesn’t make any active actions only follows and watches vs sayaka who gives commentary and swings her bat

ending song playing as they fight the witch showing like hey this is where the fucked up shit behind 

GRIEF SEEDS CLEANSING SOUL GEMS IS CANNIBALISM

homura doesn’t accept the grief seed from mami not bc she’s a lone wolf (which she is) but bc she wants mami to survive and be ok so madoka is happy 

at the end sayaka is smiling that everything wrapped up well but madoka looks pensive bc she isn’t able to completely disregard to more unsightly parts 

but once sayaka voices her opinion madoka is swayed and smiles too

[yohangaontdj]

The Devil Judge Rewatch Ep 9 (Part 1)

This episode has so much domestic bliss that I shall spend Part 1 and Part 2 talking about it.

And it starts with Yohan bringing drinks to Gaon.

The other time we saw Yohan serving a drink to him, it was coffee. And the whole affair was business-like as if they were in a meeting.

This time round, the ambience is casual, intimate. The two of them in their home wear, and so like buddies or family members having a drink after a long day at work.

And we get to see Yohan being vulnerable before Gaon. His emotions, as he talked about his brother. It was there, Yohan not trying to hide it. And to me, it shows how much the two had progressed. How much closer they were that Yohan had allowed himself to be that open to Gaon. Which I believe isn't a thing that Yohan does easily, and will only do so with those that he fully trusted.

Its just so so domestic, this scene. And it makes me feel like they're an old married couple who had been woth each other for a long time.

And it's also interesting that this is Yohan's first time serving alcohol to Gaon. When previously, he had taken the champagne flute out of his hands in Ep 4.

Makes me wonder if it's because Gaon couldn't drink much. I maybe wrong but in the previous episode, he had brought orange juice instead of soju when Professor Min and Soohyun had gathered at his place for a meal.

And then we also have a depressed Gaon with Soohyun at a bar. And Soohyun had to urge him to 'bottom ups'.

This is highly unusual if you have seen a lot of Korean drama. Usually when the drama character is facing some crisis, they would be found drowning their sorrows with bottles and bottles of soju. But we don't see Gaon doing that.

And I can't help but wonder if Yohan had found out by chance that Gaon gets drunk easily. Maybe there were some chocolate with alochol that someone had gifted to Yohan. And Gaon had, after taking two or three, started doing pretty interesting antics when inebriated. (I did write a fic based on the idea that Gaon couldn't drink in my Fictober Challenge 2021).

And so, Yohan only let Gaon drink when the two were at home.

Next, we have Gaon being so at home in the mansion.

Then getting startled and trying to hide what he was watching from Elijah.

I couldn't help be tickled by Gaon's reaction. Cause he had chosen such a public place in the mansion to watch what wasn't a very nice video. Then getting flustered when Elijah had stumbled upon him.

It's the kitchen where anyone can just walk in. And to think that Gaon hadn't thought of that. I take it as a sign he is so at ease in the Kang mansion that he pretty much do as he pleased, just like anyone will do so in their own home.

And here, we have Elijah offering her help to Gaon, her second time doing so.

She did it in Ep 8, offering to hack into the prison system so that Gaon can kill the scumbag who had cheated his parents.

And I love how, each time, Gaon had listened to her with a smile on his face. He hadn't put her down or scoff at her suggestion just because she is a mere sixteen-year-old.

And that takes patience as well as a willingness to treat the other party with respect, even though they are so much younger. Which, to be honest, isn't easlly found in the Asian context where seniority matters a lot.

And this next bit had me laughing so hard. How the sight of Ms Ji taking out an apron, can have Elijah becoming like this.

And Gaon's remark about Yohan never forbidding him to cook! 🤣

And just look at their contrasting expressions in the next pic.

Poor clueless Gaon will find out in the next bit, why Elijah's reaction had been like - Are you mad? Or are your tastebuds that bad, you want to eat Ms Ji's cooking!

I just love TDJ and their sense of humor.

More domestic bliss to come in Part 2.

[dangermousie]

Farscape rewatch - 2x13, Look at the Princess Part 3

I am very very fond of Jenavian. She’s one of my favorite one-off characters in fact, a Lady Bond who’s very very cool.

Also, pretty on brand that Crichton does not get the heart of a princess that is so typical of that sort of set up. Instead he gets a NSA one night stand with an agent, all sex and no feelings on either of their parts. (One of the things I love about him btw is that he sees a strong deadly woman and goes - attractive. I do think that progression of his one-off flings from tech and innocent with possibility of mutual feelings Gilina to murder factory tough nothing but sex Jenavian says a lot about his character progression.)

And this one night stand is the last time he voluntarily even looks at another woman, isn’t it? We are only halfway through season 2 of a show with four seasons and a mini and that is it for him. At the end of the episode Aeryn gives him hope that a relationship is possible and that is all John “I have hope or I am nothing” Crichton needs. Think of second half of s3 with Moya Crichton or Crichton in the beginning of s4 - he thinks he lost Aeryn as much or more than he believes for the bulk of this three parter and all he does is love her harder and pour his obsession into wormholes and…finding her.

Side note and digression: for a man who for so long put hope as his most important thing, his reason for going on, to declare in the end of s3 that he loves Aeryn “beyond hope” is just…no words.

So ominous. And then of course we see John (who had no problem killing the Scarran) fail to kill his bete noire and just let him off with a warning which is so so wrong that even without knowledge of the rewatch it sets off every alarm bell in the universe.

Anyway, I find the ending very very on brand: dark and heartbreaking, but with a glimmer of hope. Crichton has let Scorpius walk away (and knowing what I do now, about the chip, it is only the beginning of his madness arc), and he has had to leave behind a child he will never see (and of whose existence he didn’t know until it was too late, as the medics artificially impregnated Katralla and only then told him), which is something that he has enormous issues about.

His ‘good guys win for once’ is tinged with bitterness but also total lack of surprise. He has learned by now that the universe isn’t kind, and that any victory is not really that. But then there is also the amazing scene at the end (I still remember the first time I saw it, I literally screamed out loud) with Aeryn and the compatibility vial. And that is hope. It must take a huge huge deal of courage for Aeryn to be the one to make the first step, however tentative, and in a way, that step is enormous. She has learned in this three-parter that children is something that will always be something John will want, and with the compatibility vial test, what she is offering, however, tentatively, however hypothetically (and you see her brace herself as if for battle), is a chance to them together for that future, acknowledgment that this might be a possibility for them: a relationship, a real one, with possibly future children even. I have rewatched that scene literally dozens of times: her fishing the vial out, the way his breath catches when he sees, the utter silence with which they place the drops and the tentative, fragile way they kiss. And their eyes. Their eyes throughout. And then her walking away still in complete silence and he sits there, stock still, just staring after her, his eyes shining and full of so many inexpressible things being expressed, after all, and as she walks away, poised, you see her smile.

But then - it’s such an interesting thing to me. The guy Aeryn goes climbing with in this three parter tells her that emotional pain is worth it because of the good times before it hurt. And Aeryn decides to risk this by the end of this ep - she decides the risk of hurt is worth it for the possibility of happiness. But that gets calibrated and recalibrated for her during the show. She gets skittish more than once - think beginning of season 3 where what spooks her is not that controlled John killed her but her own feelings, her growing emotion and her terror at how consuming it is. Or think about her after Talyn-John’s death where she goes through the worst hurt (and how telling is it that John’s death breaks her the way her own never did) and she decides that no happiness is worth going through this pain again.

But! And that is what gets me so much - no matter the risk and even the certainty of pain, no matter the suffering she can never stick to her attempt to leave him, to not get involved. She always always always comes back, always gives in to her heart. She can’t be without him any more than he can be without her, whatever the price. And I love it so much. (The thing is, I think John never wavers, never tries to fight it the way she does not just because they are different people with different backgrounds and personalities but because his love for her is what he latches on as a reason for living, as a way to keep some sanity, as the one thing to hold to in the horror pit his life thrust him into. John is a deeply obsessive person and Aeryn replaces his desire to go home and even wormholes for him but I love that despite her nonlinear way to get there, her devotion is no less.)

[daughterofluthien]

I’ve seen a lot of opinions going around about That scene—The Titling Scene—and how it differed from canon, and I wanted to offer my two cents.

First off, I was absolutely in the camp of folks initially being mildly disappointed by the way this was adapted. It was sort of an ‘oh. That’s it?’ reaction for me—which makes sense, since the titling scene is THEE scene for me in the original stream. Like, I was anticipating it so much, that it would almost be impossible for me not to be disappointed.

I do think the wording could’ve been stronger—I’m not sure why the changed the line to “do watch your manners towards a noble” rather than just “regardless of your relationship with her, do watch your manners,” unless they were worried that an audience wouldn’t understand the implication/why Percy chose to title her in that moment. But honestly, while it lessens the impact a little, that’s a minor quibble at the end of the day.

The bigger thing that I had an issue with—and what I’ve seen a lot of other folks have issue with as well—is that it isn’t the mic drop moment that it was on stream. Syldor doesn’t back down, he verbally attacks Percy over it instead. And that was… definitely frustrating, on a first watch. However, on a rewatch and some contemplation, here’s a couple thoughts about why I think they made the decision they did, and why I think it was the right one (even if I do still prefer the stream version akskfkkd).

1). Rather than talking over Vex, Percy empowers Vex to defend herself.

look, the titling is an incredible moment. Iconique. *chef’s kiss* Especially in the context of an improvised scene. But in a scripted show I can see how there would be something that might not sit right about having Vex essentially remain passive for the entire encounter.

In stream iirc she talks back to syldor more in the initial conversation, which makes the titling scene Percy backing her up. But in the show, in what I assume was an attempt to both show continuity to vex as a kid trying to gain Syldor’s approval and so that Saundor can reaaaaalllly focus in on the daddy issues stuff, Vex kinda shuts down for the first third of this ep. She reverts to how she was as a kid—where Vax has already yelled at him, she’s still trying to earn his approval. Which means, when it comes to the titling scene, if it played as is on stream, Vex would essentially remain passive the entire time, which… is less than ideal, honestly.

Instead, seeing Syldor berate Percy is the catalyst she needs to stand up to her father—to defend Percy, but also to, finally, defend herself. This is Vex’s arc—it needs to be fully about her an her decisions.

2). The titling is for Vex’s benefit, not Syldor’s.

Obviously, Percy wouldn’t just title anybody to make a point to a shitty dad, so this was very clearly always a gift to Vex. But on stream, in the moment, it does play as if the purpose is mainly to embarrass Syldor. (Which it does, spectacularly and gloriously.)

However, with the title being a complete no sell in the show, that means that the purpose it does have is on Vex—which their follow up conversation proved.

Which, honestly, I can get behind. Fuck Syldor, this was never about him anyways. Who cares what he thinks.

3). Economy of mic-drops

The Feywild arc in campaign 1 occurred over 5 episodes of critical role and nearly 17 hours of gameplay. TLOVM is telling that same story in less than an hour. In order to set up the feywild and Garmelie/Artagan (as well as leave a little time for some breathing room and character moments, after the breakneck pace of the first half of the season), they decided to pack two memorable, fan-favorite Perc’ahlia moments into 30 min.

In order for “My heart is someone else’s” to have the impact that it needed to, the previous mic drop moment needed to set it up, not overshadow it.

(And holy shit did it have an impact. The music, the realization, the determination in her voice. Percy’s lil eyebrow raise reaction shot… Let me tell you, I immediately ascended out of the material plane)

To go back to my original point, this needed to be Vex’s story arc, not Percy’s. Especially in such a short form media, the titling needed to serve her arc of overcoming her insecurities and not being emotionally trapped by the shitty relationships in her past. And I think they definitely adapted the scene in a way that served that purpose.

Do I like the original moment better, still? Yes. Yes I do. But I also really like how they decided to adapt it, changes and all.

[dribs-and-drabbles]

Colours in Our Skyy 2 A Tale of Thousand Stars (with a little Bad Buddy) ep 4

It had never been certain but I had hoped all along that we would see Pat and Pran in ep 4...and how wonderful that we did...and hence this post exists!

I had thought this would be a quick, short post since the Bad Buddy elements weren't that long/the ep focused mainly on Phupha, Tian and the ATOTS side of the crossover. But, HA!, this is me after all and I've ended up with 23 screenshots 🤦🏽‍♀️ So let's dive in so this doesn't get longer than it needs to.

First, all the red and blue details so common around Pat and Pran: It's hard to see in the left pic but the red of the triangle cushion mat and the blue of Pat's clothes offer the first pairing. Then it's the pens, post-it notes, mosquito net, watering can, mailbox, and sign that offer some more (I'm including pink as red here). I love the "Pat and Pran's love sprout" sign, which feels like an upgrade of the "Pavilion of Peace" sign which Pat brought with him to the bus stop build in BBS ep 3. Yellow - love and happiness - also features, as it has done a lot in these four eps, as well as the olive greens (obstacles to their happiness), which might hint to the 'conditions' Phupha leaves for Pran in his permission for him to put on the play.

And then Pat and Pran leave Pha Pun Dao...but their colours stay with Phupha, Tian, Yod, and Kampung. Even the pouch the children made has these colours, along with yellow. Note that Yod is wearing blue when he drives Pat and Pran away, but then later he wears red when he leaves with Tian - however, an extra walks by in a blink-and-you'll-miss-it moment in blue to add another pairing.

I loved @grapejuicegay's addition to my ep 3 post in which she talked about how both Tian and Phupha lying under the red and blue blanket could show the influence that Pat and Pran were having on them. And even once Pat and Pran leave we can see that their influence remains with Phupha and Tian: In the childrens' clothes, the registration plate and the sign in the car park, and even on their 'date' in the city in the sign of the photo booth. Of course it goes beyond just the colours, as Pat and Pran's influence has played a role in enabling Tian and Phupha to have these moments together.

I'll interrupt the colours for a moment to talk about Tian's elephant pj pants. At first, I loved that it reminded me of Pat's shirt in BBS ep 11, and of the shot of Ink and Pa's feet in BBS ep 9 that I love so much... But then I rewatched the scene before and was reminded of Phupha's line, "I want to know if you forgot how to set up a mosquito net". It's probably not meant to be read as deep as Pat's shirt but I love the connection between Phupha's words and the elephant pants - an elephant never forgets! - and I wonder if it might have been intentional.

Back to the colours, and I'm not surprised Pa and Ink are in red and blue again - but this time the opposite of how they were in ep 1. I do like the styling of putting Pa in similar shirts each time, with the colour trim on a white shirt with a logo print. I haven't talked about any browns above - the earthy colours - since they are used a lot in ATOTS and for different reasons to BBS...but the browns on Pa could relate to my BBS interpretation of the colour - yielding or sacrifice - because we see Pat and Pran yield and kiss each other after being encouraged by Pa (and Korn and Wai) at the end of the play. There's also more red and blue in the bouquets of flowers, and the lighting/curtain behind the group.

And so we come to the end of our time with Pat and Pran and I'll just highlight the obvious/more of what I've already said. Pran is in Pat's blue with his own red in the blanket to the side, with yellow - their love and happiness - in his lap. (Read into all that as you want). Pat is in yellow with teal shorts - mint green/teal being symbolic of their union as a couple (incidentally, I love that in BBS it seemed that Pat wore Pran's mint green shorts a few times...but as their relationship has gotten stronger the mint green has gotten deeper to this teal colour we've seen Pat wear a few times in these OS2 eps). Even the crisps packet Pat picks out is yellow with red. All of this, to me, is as delicious as Pat finds Pran's finger.

And lastly, I'll leave you with Tian and Phupha, since this was supposed to be their ep, and a more neutral palette...because I absolutely ADORED the complementary colours of these outfits, absolutely showing they are a perfect match for each other. Also, it's interesting the way their 'city clothes' are all quite monochrome whereas in Pha Pun Dao their life is full of all different colours.

[ep 1] [ep 2] [ep 3] [ep 4] (<- I was right to be hopeful!)

[its-chelisey-stuff]

here's the extremely biased recap of my 2023 in dramaland:

also, happy holidays and merry christmas to all who celebrate!!

favorite drama: Because I can never pick just one and I know, it's a weird combination lol:

Moving (kdrama) Perfect, from beginning to end. Breaks your heart and heals it at the same time. Delivers on action, plot, family and romance. SO much romance.

Dr Romantic (kdrama) saw S2&S3 back to back. If you're in pain, you only need Teacher Kim and the Doldam team.

My School President (thai drama) still obsessed with the ost till now. A simple coming-of-age love story, executed perfectly. On par with Heartstopper. There, I said it.

I spent my time rewatching instead of making posts about any of these lol

Favorite Male lead: Jang ShinYu (Destined with you, kdrama). Excuse you, that show had 99 problems, but Rowoon wasn't one of them.

Runner Up: Seo Woojin (Dr. Romantic, kdrama).

Favorite female lead: I'm gonna be honest, I think they did dirty most female leads, especially in Korea, but the women from Dr. Romantic were all exceptional. So they're my pick.

Favorite OTPs: DoHa&YoungHwa (Moon in the Day, kdrama). ALL the ships in Moving. TinnGun (My School President, thai drama). KiHo&MokHa (Castway Diva, kdrama).

Favorite period drama: Under the Queen's Umbrella, (kdrama).

Runner Up: The Forbidden Marriage(kdrama) Also, i have just realised I didn't see many period dramas this year, but many dramas had a past life, that has to count, right?

Best chaebol romance: The third finger offered to a King (jdrama). Shame on you Korea, you failed to deliver on your area of expertise.

Runner up: A boss and a babe (thai drama). My Demon (kdrama)

Best makjang to keep you at the edge of your seat: Perfect Revenge Marriage . Runner Up: Celebrity. I know it's not exactly a makjang, but idk how else to describe it.

Best Mother: The Queen (Under the Queen's Umbrella, kdrama). Half of her problems were created by her own children, poor woman.

best father: Adoptive dad, Castaway Diva (kdrama). The man was a saint.

Runner Up: Kim Sabu, Dr. Romantic. He has like 20 children among his medical staff lmao

Best Daddy: Joo In Sung, Moving. I don't have to explain lol

Most intense high school romance&story: The Eclipse (thai drama). Runner Up: Never let me go (thai drama)

Best Musical drama: My School President (thai drama).

Runner Up: Castway Diva. Park Eun Bin can do everything. What a Queen.

Best Cohesive storytelling imo: My Lovely Liar. Not the best, but pretty good overall. Runner Up: Sountrack No 2 (kdrama). Worst thing about this is that it was so short, I needed more!!!

Swetest down to earth love story: Hidden Love, cdrama.

Runner Up: HeartLiming in Moonlight Chicken (thai drama). And basically all the other couples in there. The Last twilight Series (thai drama).

Most tragic love story: Moon in the day, kdrama. The competition was strong, but I think falling in love with the man who killed your whole family and caused the downfall of your kingdom is hard to top. Plus, she had to kill him in the end. And it took 1500+ years to get their HEA.

best wtf did I just watch but why was it so fun: My man is cupid (kdrama). Runner Up: Fish Upon the Sky (thai drama)

Best Live Action: From me to you, jdrama. Cute coming of age story. I still prefer the 2010 movie though.

Dishonorable mentions:

Biggest what if: Justice in the Dark (cdrama). I can't talk about this without crying lol Runner Up: Till the end of the moon. I need cdramas to be 40+ eps again!

biggest disappointment: It is with a heavy heart that I must say the Legend of Anle (cdrama). Still, I had my fun with it. I will always be biased about GongJun lol Runner up: King The Land, i mean where was the plot??

messiest past lives story, the theme of the year in kdramas: See You in my 19th life. Runner Up: Destined with You.

[craacked-splatters]

OKOKOK I JUST FINISHED DHMIS AND IM GOING INSANE HOLY SHIT

tumblr is the only place where my hyperfixations and ramblings won't make me seem like I've been trapped in a basement never seeing the light of day as I piece together a century long conspiracy. Apologies 4 the person I'm about 2 become . I'm gonna full theorist mode but I only have time to point out the puzzle pieces in d first ep for now cuz I got work in like 6 hrs :(( ill come bak n do rhe rest ltr feel free 2 add if u want

--

Ok so i was rewatching the eps again on my phone & collecting screenshots for my conspiracy board when I found this symbol in the intro 2 d first ep

And I was like wait a min that kinda looks like d ones from the book so i went to see if was true and yep

I don't know if there's anymore symbols scattered around in the other eps or if it was just forshadowing either way its making my brain vibrate. Has anyone else noticed this before? It's so cool

The other things in d intro that seemed a bit weird 2 me was the pics n letters on the fridge, the fact that our 3 guys r coming out of a clock house, and fuking roy looking into d house thru a hole in the wall. The symbolism and metaphors r there guys. I know it but Im putting a pin on unraveling that for ltr cuz I don't have time rn :((

I kept my eyes peeled 4 anything else n then I saw the similarities between the breifcase n his older bro and yellowguy and his imaginary older bro

Both of them were like stuck in the shadow of their younger sibs u know kinda left behind, like the smol suitcase felt inferior n could only watch as his younger was running around being bigger n better, the yellows fake bro was always stuck in the background while yellow took the spotlight,

and they both like lost their shit and injured themselves. The suitcase bro punched a wall n the fake bro literally comitted suicide. Maybe I'm looking to much into this but that kinda intrigued me a bit. Again I'll dissect to that ltr cuz I don't have d time 😔

So the 1st EP was about work & jobs right?

Noticed how like each guy had the same positions in each job?

Duck: (The judge, cryptocurrency, General, astronaut)

At 1st duck's jobs are more centered on power,on bieng a higher authority figure, someone who is respected, admired and successful. He views himself above the rest, he said one needed aggression to get ahead in workplace, (u know w/ the attention freaks part lmao),he narssistic, hes selfish, and is always strivings for better positions, better everything (the vending machine, wanting a better job etc)

He doesn't like this job, he failed at his work tasks, and no one is taking him seriously.

When the screen lady starts singing about stress n shit I was like hold up

First we see, him on the beach with a crab offering him pills. Relaxation=drugs?? An escape from reality perhaps 🤨

Then him walking on a tightrope with a bunch of red things under him (portraying his struggles with his inner demons maybe?? Showing that he is or was barely keeping himself from falling to them??)

This whole thing. The line segments with the relaxing never being an easy straight line,(gotta go thru hell 1st b4 ur happy type of thinking??) And also the colors on the diagram. It's our 3 main guys. Red duck and yellow. (I'll dissect this ltr too no time rn😔)

And this. The coins, (cryptocurrency?? financial issues??) The screw(shitty work jobs maybe) the crab(drugs) the red snake(inner demons?) And the green thing...idk what that is it has scissors n looks like its shushing(untold secrets/issues?) Maybe ita part of himself he doesn't like or harms him

Duck is forced to like his job. He tries to go along with this whole bs, but he can't and snaps causing the hand accident. Is that what happened from before he was dead? Did he cause the death of someone? We know they all died at the same time different places.Then we see ltr that his jobs aren't as powerful as before, he is a mailman, hes a struggling artist, those jobs usually arent seen as impressive as say a CEO. Is this lore👀 could it be a bit of backstory for duck👀

Next we have Red: (Doctor, Barber, boss 2 whole company, horseshoe maker) His jobs are more concentrated on responsibility and expectations. A lot of ppl rely on doctors to help them out, a lot of pressure is laid on their shoulders especially with serious situations. With barbers you want them to give you exactly what u asked for, or at least something acceptable if u cant think of anything. Bosses are bosses. They're literally in charge of a shit ton of things. They keep everything running smoothly cuz 1 wrong move and everything starts going haywire. And horses need shoes to walk I guess

Notice how red is kinda... negligent? I wouldn't say lazy hes not. But remember how he would always want to do something else besides what they were doing? Or be anywhere else besides in the now? He didn't want to do anything at all in the 1st ep deciding to just chill. He didn't want to acknowledge yellows sadness in the Death EP, I guess he didn't want to deal with it? He wanted to meet a real fam, saying that the 3 of them weren't it. The whole road trip breakdown and "Im not going back to that house"?? Very interesting 👀

Yellow: (lumberjack, icecream man, fisherman, assembly worker, therapy patient??)

Yellows jobs r more centered on labor. They're average jobs regular ppl like u and me could get whenever. They usually don't ask for degrees or sumthn just experience perhaps. They might be easy, but there is a form of danger to them Lumberjack? You chop up wood dude, you could easily lose a limb or die. Ice cream man? Well you could always run over someone and uh, stranger danger? Fisherman? Fall out and drown or get lost at sea Assembly line worker? You saw what happened the same as the lumberjack (Trust me I work at a GE and ppl r always getting hurt)I got nothing 4 patient 😔

Besides the assembly one(I'm not counting it it was a lesson), the other jobs could be viewed as experiences.

Lumberjack- helping build the shack with his dad (Roy was there)

Icecream man- its icecream. lot of us go after that car. Especially children.

Fisherman- going fishing for fun, could be a bonding experience idk

Therapy patient- c'mon

There's a lot of shit I didn't cover but it's fine. Everything is so cool and fascinating I'm losing sleep to this whole thing. I'll talk more about it later I'm tired n it's 5am I've got 2 hrs to sleep.

Edit: yo I'm literally at work rn but I realized something. Yellows jobs are repetitive too. A cycle of things that are done a sort of loop. Lumber jacks, assembly line workers, etc etc usually focus on doing one task only, over and over whether it's screwing in bolts, chopping wood, serving food doesn't matter. It's repetitive, meaning you don't have to worry about changes bcuz there aren't supposed to be. You become accustomed to it, it's reliable.

This might've been a bit forshadowing about the way our 3 characters have to start the same routine in the same house again and again, a seemingly endless loop.

Did y'all notice how yellow was extremely against the road trip idea? And the death episode? He didn't want the routine to change. he didn't like it was confusing to him. And just when he's getting used to a change it all collapses on him. Man :(( this show is so cool fr I'll continue dissecting ltr gotta go now

[charliethomascoxuniverse]

I’m currently rewatching ep 2 S2 of Kin for like the 4th time (so happy we got so much more Mikey goodness this episode!), and I think this little exchange between Michael and Jimmy is my favourite of the episode.😂

Jimmy: I’m telling you, Michael, wait until you f*cking see this! Coming in?

Mikey: Do I have to?

Jimmy: Yes! You’re my brother. I value your opinion on these things. 

Mikey: F*ck’s sake. 

Jimmy: Yeeeaaaaaah, that’s the attitude! 

The sheer exasperated sibling quality of this scene cracks me up - Michael being a grump and Jimmy compensating with mockingly extra enthusiasm. 😂

And then once they get inside, what are they there for? A baby Burmese python! Naturally, Jimmy’s just dragged him along to torment him with snakes again. lol

(Is this the face of a man who has any opinions to offer on the matter of snakes? Except that maybe buying one that’s going to grow to be 20ft long and keeping it as a pet is not a great idea.)

The Jimmy & Mikey scenes are always among my favourites (both for the brotherly affection and the greater complexities of their relationship), so I hope we get more of them this season. 

I do find myself worrying about the rift their father’s return from prison is likely is cause though. Michael obviously already has Bren’s number when it comes to what the man’s capable of and immediately took the initiative to try and make sure the rest of the family is united against him. 

Despite Michael’s trepidation over Bren’s return, he also seems to be the only one who’s not afraid openly go toe-to-toe with him. Other than Amanda (and maybe surreptitiously Frank), he seems to be largely standing alone thus far.

Jimmy’s obviously aware of what Bren’s like, but perhaps not to the same extent. Plus, his relationship with Bren - despite it’s tensions - doesn’t seem quite as adversarial as Bren’s with Michael. And I can’t help but notice that whenever Bren’s going off about something, Jimmy is always the one most conspicuously closed-mouthed. 

The juxtaposition of the scenes in episodes 1&2 where Jimmy and Michael separately accompany Amanda to the Turkish money transfer store just speaks volumes about the difference in their characters. 

When Jimmy’s told only one person can go in the back, he just accepts it and remains behind (despite looking uncomfortable about it) while Amanda conducts the rest of their business. Whereas Michael, in same scenario, just silently stares the store clerk down as if daring him to stop him from going with Amanda; unsurprisingly the man doesn’t challenge him. One brother is an insecurely submissive follower, and the other is a self-assured Mr F*ck-Around-and-Find-Out. xd

But it’s Jimmy’s insecurities that ultimately weaken him, and thus make him so malleable to Bren’s manipulations. Manipulations that can only serve to drive a wedge between he and Amanda - who will then just be driven even more firmly to Michael’s side, resulting in further conflict between he and his brother. 

All of which is great for Bren, because in playing Jimmy off against Michael he not only gains himself an extra lackey (who Mikey will be unwilling to take out), he also checks him as a support to Michael and Amanda. 

At least until Bren crosses the line and Jimmy finally wakes up and realizes he needs to find his courage and stand up to the man. And that he needs to stand with Michael to bring him down. ~

(*screeches* In case it’s not obvious, I really NEED the rest of those episodes!! I am in torment okay- Netflix bingeing has ruined me! 😭😬)

And speaking of Mikey and Jimmy, here’s some interesting things Charlie had to say about their relationship and his role as Michael:

“It really helped explain Michael (the brotherly dynamic). How Jimmy handles being around Michael, how he’s protective and also kind of feels threatened by him, was so revealing to me. I think that their history with their father is very, very complicated. I think that Michael has done stuff that is almost unforgivable in the past towards his brother, but at the same time, weirdly, he kind of - I think Jimmy knows Michael took the brunt of the father’s abuse. And in a way Jimmy can’t ever, you know, can never not try to be protective of his brother.

There was a version of a lot of the Jimmy and Michael scenes where we could have played them with much more tension. And much more kind of chest-puffing, like try to be the top dog, and neither one of us felt like that was right. We didn’t discuss it necessarily, but I think that we both felt that like ‘these two have been through so much’. That really they just love each other, and they want to support each other. What that means sometimes - and this is true of a lot of siblings, a lot of families in general - it means you have to find a way to forgive things that once seemed unforgiveable.”

~

“One of the things I liked about Michael, I’m fascinated by what he doesn’t say as much as what he does say, you know? And in a family where everyone’s got opinions and everyone’s giving their input, and he just kind of sits back and takes it all in and keeps his opinions to himself most of the time.

I’m not, as a performer, I’m not afraid of that. I’m not sitting there counting my lines in a script wanting more. (laughs) You know, I quite enjoy that. I did a similar thing with Boardwalk Empire - you know, the character in that doesn’t say a huge amount but he’s very influential.”

~ Charlie Cox

(That said, I’m thrilled to see Mikey stepping up so much more this season!!! 🔥❤️🔥)