Read if you dare...

The musings of a 20-something gal

[sheslaysdragons]

Neighbours – 31/05/18 - 7854 Episode Review

All opinions and views are my own.

DO NOT READ IF YOU HAVE NOT SEEN THIS THURSDAY’S EPISODE CONTAINS SPOILERS AND SPECULATIONS!

Shown on Channel 5 in the UK, Eleven in Australia

 Synopsis: Yashvi takes a stand against Marisa, Leo tries to get Terese on side; David has an awkward encounter with Cassius.

 Today’s episode dealt with a heavy but topical issue – racism. After finally confiding in her mother about her teammate’s racial abuse, Yashvi finds the courage to stand up to Marisa. However, it takes Dipi discussing her own incidences with racism before Yashvi speaks up. Dipi says to Shane how “It’s not only an attack on Yashvi, it’s an attack on me, Kirsha, our entire family.”

She’s right as it was difficult to watch, seeing Yashvi so affected by Marisa’s behaviour. After realising that they are in this situation together, Yashvi finally informs her football team about Marisa’s racist comments towards her. They participate in mediation, where Marisa is confronted about her actions. Marisa’s mother is surprised and apologetic but she is not, continuing to deny that she had any wrongdoing. As a result, she is kicked off of the football team.

 Elsewhere, Leo is still working as a cleaner at the hotel under Terese’s mentorship. He’s getting frustrated as he feels his talents are being wasted by starting from the bottom. Fortunately, Terese informs him that she believes in his abilities but he has to learn from the ground up in order for him to fully appreciate his work. Leo also reveals to Shane that he too, has experienced racism whilst he was in high school. Dipi reminds Shane that “no matter how much you love me and her it’s not the same when you haven’t been through it”.  Although he understands that he can never empathise with his wife and daughter’s experiences, he still feels powerless wanting to protect his family. This leads him to pressuring Leo into firing Marisa, who works at the hotel. Leo is left with a difficult choice as at present, he has no grounds to sack her unless she messes up at work.

 Lastly, David meets Sheila’s new attractive gardener Cassius. He finds himself drawn to him and feels guilty for ogling him. He feels even more guilty when he hears that Aaron has been getting inappropriate comments about his physique, on a promotional photo for his business. He apologises to Cassius for ‘objectifying’ him but the gardener is understanding as is Aaron. 

 Overall, I would give this episode a rating 5/5. The best moment would be when Yashvi makes a vlog for Pipe Up about racism. The worst, when Marisa refuses to acknowledge that she is a racist. I feel like this was a fantastic episode. It was very well written and credit should be given especially to the actresses who play Dipi (Sharon Johal) and Yashvi (Olivia Junkeer) respectively. The emotional depth really hit home for me particularly as a woman of colour myself who has had her own experiences with prejudice. I think that soaps (or continuing dramas rather) are at their best when they handle societal issues. Neighbours was careful to depict the situation Yashvi was in with care. There are so many things I could go on about that the show did well with, such as Shane identifying his own privilege but still being able to support his family regardless. I loved that the situation affected the Rebecchis’ as unit since they are a mixed-race family. The little bits with David and Cassius were interesting as they pointed out the double standard when it comes to objectification. When it’s towards women, we are quick to condemn it but shouldn’t we do likewise when it’s towards men as well? It just revealed to me how there are so many things that we as a society have accepted as the norm when really, they are not right in any respect. Well done Neighbours, of all the storylines I’ve come across on the show I have to say that the racism one was the most powerful because it was so real. Media is a great tool to use to reflect the problems within the community, as a means to make people aware and compel them to bring about change.

 Until next time and thanks for reading,

 Ella M.

 x

[sheslaysdragons]

Neighbours – 08/01/18- 7751 Episode Review

All opinions and views are my own.

DO NOT READ IF YOU HAVE NOT SEEN THIS MONDAY’S EPISODE CONTAINS SPOILERS AND SPECULATIONS!

Shown on Channel 5 in the UK, Eleven in Australia

Synopsis: Paige is in turmoil over Gabe’s disappearance; Tyler faces the prospect of jail; Toadie and Sonya celebrate their love; David makes the ultimate romantic gesture.

 Whilst the rest of the world has already rung in the New Year, back in Neighbours it is still Christmas Day. Paige is frantic, desperate to find Gabe. As word spreads round, everyone is on the lookout. "I am not sitting still until that baby is in my arms!" - Paige yells. Meanwhile Jack is trying to be supportive but even he ends up losing his nerve. In the end, it's revealed that none other than Louise is the little one's kidnapper. What could she possibly want?

 Unfortunately, Tyler finds that he’s the only remaining suspect in Hamish’s murder case. He ends up confessing, and after getting bail, has to appear in court on Valentine’s Day apparently. Maybe the likelihood of him going to prison will inspire a Typer wedding?

 Toadie and Sonya are enjoying their remarital bliss. They decide to go on a honeymoon on the Brennans’ boat (why is beyond me, it is so obviously cursed). They joke about Angie’s “baby-making elixir” and it is really is lovely to see these two reunited again. I love that Sonya was humming whilst smooching Toadie; they are essentially the equivalent to Susan and Karl! Their honeymoon takes a wild turn when they discover that they are lost at sea. There’s never a moment of peace for them is there? As for the appearance of Dee, it is unclear whether or not this is the real her or her doppelganger Andrea. Willow’s desire to track down her mother also makes me suspicious of her. Is it likely that she’s still in contact with her?

 Finally, David is still feeling guilty for rejecting Aaron’s request to move in with him. Inspired by Toadie and Sonya, he decides to propose to Aaron. He dresses up as an angel and dances to a funky club song before popping the question. The consequences are disastrous. Aaron is completely thrown by David’s actions, and seeing his ex-boyfriend Rory doesn’t make matters much better. He rushes off in a bout of confusion and David is devastated.

 Overall, a good episode. There was a lot of great drama but some storylines played out stronger than others. It was a nice opener for the first episode of the new year regardless. A 3/5 for this one. I’m going to be using a new rating system out of 5. As well as, making some other changes such as choosing the best and worst moments of an episode. It looks like it’s going to be a rollercoaster of a year for Neighbours and I’m looking forward to it! 

 Otherwise, thanks for reading, Happy New Year and until next time,

Ella M.

x

[andimackconfessions]

Confession #71:

I just wanted to say that I think Andi Mack is a great show. Sometimes it’s easy to get caught up in all the disagreements over ships and whatnot. But honestly, let’s just appreciate the show for what it is, which is wonderful storytelling 👏. The main reason I first started watching was because Andi is a girl who’s just trying to figure out her place in the world. And that’s something that not just her, but all the other characters are doing too. It’s something that everyone can relate to.

[worshipgifs]

[sheslaysdragons]

Riverdale - 2x08 - Episode Review

Shown on The CW in the US, available on Netflix in the UK.

WARNING CONTAINS SPOILERS AND SPECULATIONS.

All views & opinions are my own.

Chapter Twenty-One: House of the Devil 

Synopsis: FP Jones is released from prison; Betty decides to join the Serpents; Archie and Veronica find out more about The Riverdale Reaper.

This episode gets dark and seductive. First Jughead deals with his father FP coming out of prison (after he and Archie did a job for Penny in exchange for his freedom). Everything is seemingly going well as FP gets a job at Pop’s diner and has apparently joined AA. The Southside Serpents have embraced Jughead as their temporary leader as he attempts to keep the peace. His happiness is fleeting though. He and his Dad go riding on their motorcycles together and it’s great to see this pair back onscreen as I love their dynamic. FP loves Jughead more than anything as he says to him how he doesn’t “want that life” for his son. However, Jughead is committed to the Serpents and asks for his father’s “blessing” in joining them. FP concedes but it’s not long before he’s forced to take over from his son after finding out that Penny Peabody’s been blackmailing him. When he told Jughead, “you broke my heart” and kissed his head it was so emotional. The father/son relationships on this show are brilliant.

 Meanwhile, Betty wants to keep tabs on Jughead and that means joining the Serpents herself. Although the rules for female members are different as Betty has to do “The Serpent Dance”. On the other hand, Toni brands it as “outdated” and “sexist”. She couldn’t be righter but Betty’s devotion to Jughead runs deep. It’s not long before she finds herself up onstage at FP’s (short-lived) retirement party stripping and doing a seductive pole dance in front of everyone. Both Jughead and Alice are mortified. Alice, mainly because she sees her daughter turning into herself. Jughead decides (after Penny threatens her safety) that the only way to protect Betty is to call off their relationship for a while. T’awwwwww and just when they had reunited!

 Furthermore, Varchie are in trouble too. After a lust-filled montage plays Archie finally says, “I love you Ronnie”. His sentiments aren’t returned and Veronica tries to reassure him to no avail. She states, “I wanna be with you and you wanna be with me, can’t that be enough for right now?” Although it’s not enough, not even close and they go back and forth about it throughout the episode. They take over Bughead’s sleuthing duties and try to find out more about The Riverdale Reaper. It leads them to the old and abandoned house of the murdered Conway family whom the Reaper allegedly slaughtered. They discover the Conways had one child who escaped who turns out to be Riverdale High’s janitor, Mr Svenson. He’s not the Black Hood but he reveals that the Reaper got his comeuppance. This mystery just gets creepier and stranger.

 Varchie end up calling it quits. Yes, that sucks because these two and Bughead are essentially the show’s power couples.  However, it could result in some great storylines and direction for their characters. As for Barchie? They’re very similar and the issue in both their relationships is difference in terms of personality and background. I’m not sure how I feel about this ship but I’d like to see where it goes…

There were also more Cheryl and Josie scenes. She clearly has a bit of a crush/fascination with her. As for FP and Alice, I’m calling it now, those two are going to have an affair by the end of the season. I’m convinced there’s more history there. Is it possible that in the past FP chose the Serpents over Alice? I NEED TO KNOW!

 Overall, good episode. There were some moments that felt out of place but it was nice in terms of character and plot development as always. An 8.5/10 for this one. Archie and Veronica’s duet was really lovely, it fitted with the tone of the story but when Betty came in it got so eerie (flashback to her singing ‘Happy Birthday’ to Jughead).

 Until next time and thanks for reading,

Ella M.

x

[sheslaysdragons]

Andi's paternal family

Just a question but does Bowie have any other family besides his daughter? I just think it's weird that up until now it hasn't been mentioned AT ALL. I presume that he does and they probably just live outside of town. I also reckon that the show might be saving that backstory for later down the line. But in all seriousness does Bowie have parents? Do they exist? Will Andi ever meet them? It's just weird mehn 🤔. Am I the only one bothered by this? 😂

[sheslaysdragons]

Andi Mack Theory

Yo...but what if Amber's Dad turned out to be Bex's "toxic" ex Gabriel? That would be wild y'all

[taylorswft]

the mindy project was so important to me. not just as a young brown girl yearning for representation in media, but as a girl who has loved romance, fairytales, pop culture, and fashion her entire life, everything tmp is built upon. mindy wrote a show that celebrated a smart, funny, ambitious, and messy woman in her pursuit of love and success. she showed us that our romanticized ideals may have flaws, but that doesn’t mean they’re not worth striving for. the mindy project is a love letter to the rom-com and I can think of no better ending than that final wide-shot. 

[tmpgifs]

[anbimack]

2x04 // 1x10

[thecwriverdale]

Riverdale may be a TV drama, but sexual abuse and assault are very real. For yourself, a loved one, or a friend, go to GetThePowerBack.org to take control, stop the hurt, and reclaim the future.

[sheslaysdragons]

Riverdale – 2x05 – Episode Review

Shown on The CW in the US, available on Netflix in the UK.

WARNING CONTAINS SPOILERS AND SPECULATIONS.

All views & opinions are my own.

 Chapter Eighteen: When a Stranger Calls

Synopsis: The Black Hood terrorises Betty. Jughead officially joins the Southside Serpents. An old friend of Veronica’s, Nick St. Clair, comes to visit and stirs up trouble.

The Black Hood is harassing Betty and it is NOT ok! He continuously rings her throughout this episode, threatening to hurt those closest to her if she does not cut them out of her life. He makes her publish an old article about Alice Cooper’s shady past as a Southsider, in exchange for not carving Polly “like a jack-o’lantern”. Next, he moves onto Veronica, which results in Betty tearing into her best friend calling her a “privileged, shallow, airhead party girl” – ouch. Of course, Veronica is oblivious to the truth, too occupied with keeping Nick St. Clair company. That does not stop Betty from telling Archie, who has to help her fake break-up with Jughead. Nooooooooooo! The final straw comes when The Black Hood answers Betty’s requests to know more about himself. He leads her to an abandoned house where he makes her put on a black hood and proves that she’s just like him. Yup, this guy is a psychopath. She’s forced to protect Polly again, when the Black Hood finds out that she’s been confiding in Archie. So she gives up Nick St. Clair’s name as penance.

Meanwhile, Jughead, in an attempt to stop another “all-out war from erupting” joins the Southside Serpents. He takes part in the gang’s initiation, which includes looking after Hot Dog and retrieving a knife from the clutches of a snake. He does not tell Betty about any of this, relying instead on Toni for support. This drives Bughead further apart as now both of them are keeping big secrets from each other. Just before the final step in his initiation, Archie tells him that he and Betty are finished. Jughead now sees the Serpents as all he’s got left. Poor Juggie! After being ruthlessly beaten to a pulp by all of the gang members, he’s finally able to mourn the end of his relationship with Betty. He finds solace in the arms of Toni, who I bet has liked him from the very beginning. It is not surprising and I’m sure Bughead shippers will be up in arms but every good relationship will come under fire. If it’s one built to last then it can only come out of it stronger, hopefully this is the case with Betty and Jughead.

Veronica has to impress her old friend Nick St. Clair because her father needs his father’s investment. Unfortunately, Nick turns out to be absolute trash. He takes drugs and makes Archie feel jealous about Veronica in his presence. He even tries to come onto Ronnie at one point but she rebuffs him. He immediately insults her and she slaps him. You go girl! I love sassy Veronica. Sadly, Nick’s sins do not end there. He makes Cheryl Blossom his next target, spiking her drink at the Lodges’ open house. Just before he is about to assault Cheryl, the Pussycats crash in with Veronica leading them. They beat Nick up, rescuing Cheryl from his disgusting self.

Overall, I’d give this one a 9/10. Nick got exactly what he deserved, but I have a feeling he’s not going away that easily. One of the best moments of this episode was when Alice walked into the Lodges’ open house wearing that wonderful orange playsuit. Mama Cooper knows how to slay! I couldn’t help but burst out laughing every time Betty’s phone rang because of that ridiculous ‘Lollipop’ ringtone. It had a humorous, but eerie effect at the same time. I have a theory that The Black Hood is a team of people working together. I have another one that maybe Betty is The Black Hood and all those phone calls are hallucinations. It’s cray but always expect the unexpected with this show. Lili Reinhart was killing it this episode. Her acting was amazing, you could see the inner turmoil Betty was going through. The worst moment of this episode was obviously Cheryl’s ordeal. Hasn’t she suffered enough writers?! I liked that Madelaine Petsch did a video about how although the storyline was fictional, she was still advocating for real life victims of sexual assault to speak out and seek help. So timely but very needed.

Until next time and thanks for reading,

Ella M.

 X

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3lTOXwFukG8 

[sheslaysdragons]

Riverdale - 2x04 - Episode Review

Shown on The CW in the US, available on Netflix in the UK.

WARNING CONTAINS SPOILERS AND SPECULATIONS.

All views & opinions are my own.

Synopsis: Tensions between the North and Southside come to a head. The Black Hood contacts Betty. 

Chapter Seventeen: The Town that Dreaded Sundown 

Jughead has an unhealthy obsession with serial killers. So much so that he feels the need to collect books from the library about them for "research". Apparently Toni is the female equivalent of Jughead because she asks him to help decode the cipher that  The Black Hood sent to Betty. Betty is not having it though and offers to join forces with them and Kevin. It doesn't end well as Betty and Toni clash over the tensions between the North and Southside. Toni and Kevin leave but it is not clear who walks who home.

Bughead falls asleep decoding and they  wake up in one another's arms. Aww. The sweetness is short-lived when Jughead discovers that not only did The Black Hood send Betty the cipher, but also an incredibly disturbing letter. He's concerned for her safety and it is a comment about her being like "Nancy Drew" that leads to finally cracking the code. The Black Hood's next target is at  the town meeting which is ironically being held in his honour 😒. 

Meanwhile Archie Andrews is still relishing his title as Riverdale's designated hero. He's determined to go after The Black Hood saying to Veronica, "I wanna be the last thing he sees". The Red Circle's video has been seen by everyone. Hermione wants Varchie to break up (bye Felicia) and Archie is at risk of being suspended from school. Even his football pals abandon him (not for long though), but it doesn't stop him from fulfilling his mission. He's purchases weapons and dares to walk the streets  on the Southside, tagging the place with the Red Circle's logo. One of the Serpents, Sweet Pea, is not  happy and this leads to a heated confrontation. I was genuinely shocked when Archie pulled out his gun and snarled "who made a mistake?"

Veronica is alarmed by the lengths Archie is willing to go to though nonetheless supports him. She is even willing to fetch his gun from the toilet. Are they relationship goals or nah? 😉 Unfortunately, Sweet Pea ends up challenging Archie and his pals to a fight refereed by Queen V herself. The visuals during the Serpents vs. Bulldogs scene were stunning. The most epic moment was when Veronica used Archie's gun to fire a shot into the air, stopping the fight. Later she tends to her boyfriend's wounds and they make out a little. Does Fred stop them? Of course not. They do pause but only to chuck the gun in Sweetwater River. They are going to regret that soon. 

At the town meeting, Mayor McCoy struggles to maintain control. Sheriff Keller suggests a "town curfew" and it is at this point when Alice Cooper takes over. Funnily enough, she wants to get rid of the Southside despite allegedly growing up there? Fred jumps in, suggesting that what the town really needs is unity. Enter Bughead with a warning that the building needs to be evacuated because of The Black Hood. Betty finally confesses all but her nightmare is only beginning. She gets a phonecall from none other than...yup you guessed it 😏.

Overall, lovely episode. A 10/10 for this one. Kevin and Reggie are becoming the most quotable characters on the show. I would love to know what else "The Book of Reg" contains. Yes Kevin, "Betty's ponytail is iconic and beyond reproach" 😎. The Lodges are somehow connected to The Black Hood, I'm sure. Hiram gets weirder with each episode. If anyone can destroy Bughead, it's Toni 😔. I'm loving that this season we get more focus on Varchie. I like how their relationship is developing into ride or die. Alice's crying about her childrens' safety was emotional. I'm scared for Betty, she should relocate ASAP!!!

Until next time and thanks for reading,

Ella M. 

X 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YcdlTfJIlPM

[sheslaysdragons]

Riverdale - 2x03 - Episode Review

Shown on The CW in the US, available on Netflix in the UK.

WARNING CONTAINS SPOILERS AND SPECULATIONS.

All views & opinions are my own.

Chapter Sixteen - The Watcher in the Woods 

Synopsis: Archie is determined to help protect Riverdale's residents; Veronica continues to clash with her parents; Jughead starts at Southside High whilst Kevin plays with danger. I was worried there would be two more dead bodies to bury in this episode but luckily Moose and Midge survive. Unfortunately, Moose ends up in hospital after apparently shielding Midge from the shooter. This other violent incident prompts Archie to make the town's safety his priority. He forms the student equivalent of a neighbourhood watch called 'The Red Circle'. With the help of Reggie and his trusty bat, they manage to rescue Ethel who is allegedly being followed by a suspicious car. I am loving more Reggie. Only he would comment about how Moose's "nurse is hot" as opposed to Archie who wants to find the person who put him in hospital in the first place. In the end, with some nudging from Hiram Lodge, Archie makes a video threatening the mysterious masked crusader. Though we then see Hiram watching the video and smiling to himself. Is Hiram apart of all this craziness? Only time will tell... Meanwhile, Kevin Keller has long forgotten about Joaquin. Instead he's opting for late-night trysts with randoms in the woods. Though wait...wasn't he also doing that last season? However this is the first time we see Betty disapproving of his actions. Not because she doesn't want him to have fun but because Riverdale's dangerous, now more than ever. Kevin was the one who found Jason's dead body and he also manages to find Moose  and Midge just in time. I liked that Kevin's character was explored more in this episode. There was even an emotional scene between him and his Dad, Sheriff Keller.  He insists that he wants their relationship to be more open and for his son to be safe. Cheryl  (who's suddenly more interested in Kevin's life) has a point when she says that "Kevin wants validation". And the person he's probably sought it the most from is his Dad. At least he's finally paying his son more attention, as opposed to his job that he never really does well anyway 😅. Veronica is still Daddy's little angel as she desperately tries to introduce him to her friends and boyfriend Archie. The end result is Archie and Hiram sipping rum whilst he threatens and advises him all at the same time. He also chastises Hermione for trying to warn their daughter about spending time with Archie. Hiram is the kind of guy who will kill you but have you convinced that he's helping you. Unlike the Blossoms, who loved to hide in the shadows and portrayed themselves as being squeaky clean, the Lodges are forever in a bizarre power struggle. It gets even weirder when Ronnie decides she wants to help out with the family business for real. Oh honey, what are you getting yourself into?! 🙈 Jughead starts at Southside High and the transition is anything but smooth. The Serpents are still trying to control him and there are even more gangs at school to contend with. Thankfully he encounters the lovely Toni Topaz (the pink hair is gorgeous). She's also a Serpent but seems to respect Jughead's desire to stay clear of them. He ropes her in as a photographer for the school newspaper, the Red and Black. Can we just acknowledge the fact that only Forsythe Pendleton Jones the 3rd would resurrect a dead newspaper on his first day? His teacher Mr Philips was spot on when he gives him the introductory "welcome to hell". He gets beaten up by a group called the Ghoulies and lies to Betty about it. No Juggy, no - this is how it all gets messed up! He does say to Betty  (before they are yet again interrupted) how he thought she "liked him reckless". Not in this way though! We finally find out that Riverdale's masked crusader is called 'The Black Hood'. His agenda is "my wrath is the price of your lies, your secrets, your sins". He basically wants to purify the town. Yeah good luck mate 😉. Overall, great episode. 9/10. I think that the momentum got better in the second half. Interested to know more about Toni and Sweet Pea. Until next time & thanks for reading, Ella M.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TiyBwwqeCN4 

[sheslaysdragons]

There’s always that one guy...

The earth-shattering moment you realise that it’s ok that Someone doesn’t care about you. Why? Well, because you care about yourself now. At first all you ever wanted was That Someone’s attention. It’d be nice if you could say hello. It’d be great if you could start a conversation with me for once. Can I not always be wondering if you’re my friend or not? Then there’s the painful bit: being ignored. If you like, let’s expand and define it as ‘Ignoration’. The period of Ignoration is where you don’t exist to this Certain Someone. It’s like you’re air or dust. Regardless of how much They say it, or others tell you, you know-that-you know-that-you-know that it’s complete nonsense for it to be all in your head. You feel it when They acknowledge everyone else except you. This Someone may blame it on their shyness or their awkwardness but to be perfectly honest…maybe they just never really liked you and were too sheepish to say it. Or they repeatedly did with their actions but you weren’t ready to let go. Now that you’ve admitted that to yourself, you can calmly move onto the next stage.

Acceptance. It doesn’t matter that they never cared about you, because you’ve learned to love yourself. Your life no longer depends on whether That One Guy will notice you anymore. Try not to make such a big deal out of the fact that it’s been…how many years? You’ve lost track. All your friends used to be dumbfounded that you’d spent so long pining after him when it was abundantly clear nothing was ever going to happen between the two of you. It was amazing how much you rationalised and reasoned with yourself. You’d built this imaginary romance in your head. You know the type where one day he wakes up and realises that you’re what he’s been missing and sweeps you off your feet? Never going to happen. Never will happen. And that’s ok. Maybe he was timid. Who cares? Maybe you were just too antisocial. Maybe you expected too much from him. Who cares? You’ve got your standards and you won’t lower them for anyone, not even him. See all the frustration and confusion you harboured in your heart you handed over to God in prayer. Despite the revelation that he was Somebody Else’s Guy you still found yourself hoping it was all a dream. Though this is reality and it’s hard to get over, but you have to for your own sake. 

You know what isn’t a mere fantasy? One day you will meet a guy who will realise your worth. You will not have to climb a mountain to get his attention; he will see and love and accept you just as you are. However, at this moment in time you must do that for yourself. It doesn’t matter if That One Guy never paid attention because you’ve learnt to love yourself. Learning to love yourself means realising who you are in Christ. It’s knowing that chasing other people only ends in emptiness, but God always satisfies. You’re not mad anymore. You’re not hurt or perplexed. You don’t even feel embarrassed. Sometimes we have to go through really bad, weird, hurtful experiences to get to the point where we finally experience growth. So instead of the bad, you’re left with good. You’re thanking That One Guy for never valuing your worth. Maybe God was sparing you from something or maybe it just wasn’t meant to be. You wish him all the best in life. You hope he’s happy and fulfilled and aware of his purpose. Maybe one day he’ll see this post and of course, understand that you’re talking about him. Who cares? You’re free from all that time, effort and energy you spent trying to gain his approval. And if you ever do see those wedding pictures on social media you won’t get upset. 

‘Cos guess what princess?

One day your time will come too…  

[sheslaysdragons]

Riverdale - 2x01 – Episode Review

Shown on The CW in the US, available on Netflix in the UK.

WARNING CONTAINS SPOILERS AND SPECULATIONS.

All views & opinions are my own.

‘Chapter 14: A Kiss Before Dying’ 

Synopsis: Fred fights for his life in hospital as the town holds vigil for him.

If you thought the season 1 finale was bloody, then brace yourself for the season 2 opener; it’s even bloodier. Archie, who in a time of crisis has somehow managed to gain adequate driving skills, races to get his father Fred to hospital. An unconscious Fred has various visions about the future, all surrounding Archie; his graduation, proposing to Veronica and their eventual wedding. Interestingly enough, these all end with the entrance of the mysterious shooter. Ironically, the memory of being shot is what eventually wakes him up as he decides that he’s come back to “protect” Archie. This leads one to believe that Fred may just know exactly who shot him and why.

Meanwhile, Archie struggles to cope in the aftermath as his friends rush to his side. The scenes between him and Veronica are great. Veronica tries her best to be a good girlfriend to Archie, even when he tries to push her away. After a steamy shower scene (can we please acknowledge the grossness of how he was washing blood off himself in there) together, Archie wants to be alone. Veronica refuses telling him she’s “not going anywhere”. He then cries in her arms in a moment that’s surely worth making the top 10 best moments in their relationship. Could Varchie be endgame material?

Bughead are still going strong but the question of Jughead joining the Southside Serpents remains ambiguous. Jughead has somehow (like Archie) magically acquired adequate driving skills on a motorcycle though Betty joins him on it hesitantly. He later explains to her that his foster parents will “cover” for him as he’ll continue to live in FP’s old trailer. He wants to stay there because now that his dad’s in prison, he wants reminders around to feel close to him. Aww, bless you Juggy. Sadly, Jughead was quite naïve in thinking that the Serpents having his back wouldn’t come without strings attached. After asking them to make inquiries about who Fred’s shooter might be, he finds them back at FP’s trailer violently interrogating a potential suspect. Whether he likes it or not, Jughead Jones is a part of the Southside Serpents and it’s definitely going to be a wild ride. 

After the fire at Thornhill, Penelope Blossom ends up in hospital. Turns out she tried to salvage a family picture and it resulted in her being completely burned. Dang. If we thought Cheryl was a mean girl before, she’s meaner now. In fact, she’s stone cold. She towers over her mother threatening her saying that “things are going to be different Mommy”. Different because now Chezza has all the power. And it’s freaking amazing! I suspect that Penelope killed Clifford and staged it to look like a suicide. However, I’m probably wrong as this is Riverdale so anything’s possible. I loved that Cheryl made time to see Fred, it was a sweet gesture to thank Archie for saving her. 

The most shocking twist this episode is that Fred’s brush with death was a red herring. The real victim is Ms Grundy who relocated to neighbouring town Greendale. She’s still hooking up with her students but it’s not entirely fair to say she gets her just dessert. Her murder is brutal as she’s strangled by no other than Fred’s shooter. Pop’s is right, there is an “angel of death” and he’s clearly unstoppable.

The cinematography this episode is fantastic, as per usual. Particularly the scenes with Fred’s visions, Bughead’s kiss in the rain and so forth. On a side note, after that wedding I’m wondering if the Andrews’ have Scottish heritage? I loved the entrance of the formidable Hiram Lodge. It’s about damn time. He basically orders Veronica to give him a welcome home kiss and it’s as awkward as it sounds. Only time will tell whose more evil, Hermione or Hiram. When the former sneered at Veronica with “I’m not a violent person” it was chilling. She seems like the type to kill quietly and maliciously. I loved Veronica’s wedding dress in Fred’s vision but the hospital staff’s uniform was interesting. Don’t they usually wear scrubs? Oh well, everything’s weird in Riverdale. We got a glimpse of the Josie and Pussycats as well as new Reggie (Charles Melton) but will hopefully see more of them in further episodes. 

Overall, a 10/10 for this one. KJ Apa’s acting was fire this episode, Archie had a lot of emotional scenes. Riverdale is back with a vengeance, literally. I’m so excited for this season, so many things to look forward to!

Until next time and thanks for reading,

Ella.M

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[sheslaysdragons]

Freedom - International Day of the Girl