Merlin 2x08
EPIC! Finally! This is the kind of episode I was hoping we would have gotten right at the start of the season. Now don't get me wrong, I've loved all the episodes so far, but this was what I was expecting following the epic conclusion of season one.
Now to get it out of the way: THE RESET.
First of all, I am such a sucker for these tragic catch 22 scenarios. Merlin really had no choice, even though it almost broke his heart. I just love the tragedy of it all.
Second, I don't think the reset will last. Arthur was in a very vulnerable state emotionally, so he clings to Uther and his beliefs....for now. It's just what makes him feel safe right now, after all he was majorly traumatised, for a moment there his whole life was turned up side down.
Plus, if you think about it, Morgause/"Igraine" did lie to Arthur in that she made it seem that Uther knew he was killing his wife when he went to Niumeh for help. That was not the case.
Now Uther is still a hypocrite, but he did not intentionally sacrifice Igraine.
I think that's an important distinction.
I kinda also liked that with that ending, it means the Igraine/Arthur's birth card has not yet been fully played. It is sure to play a major part in the future.
Now back to being a flaily fangirl:
OH ARTHUR! OH BRADLEY! He was beautiful in anger and in grief. I must say I might have had something in my eye when he broke down and just sobbed at Uther's feet.
I think it's very significant that Merlin got to witness it as well, it will help him see Arthur differently.
And Merlin! With the shiny eyes at the end!!! MY POOR BOYS!!! Colin, and especially Bradley just nailed it tonight.
I loved all their scenes, from Merlin teasing Arthur about being beaten by a girl, and helping a sweaty prince out of his armour, to the rope incident.
But of course what I loved most was THE CONVERSATION!! Finally, I've been waiting for this moment for soooo long. I just wished they would have devoted more time to Arthur and Merlin talking about their respective parents.
Now this episode should have been a two-parter.
Also looooved all the Morgana/Morgause storyline.