Merlin BFI Event
so I was lucky enough to go to the Merlin BFI event yesterday where the cast held a screening of the first 2 episodes of series 3 and I thought I would write up my report for anyone who is interested :D I'm not sure which parts are in episode 1 or 2 though because they showed it as one whole episode.
Arthur and Morgana fans: There's a picture at the end that's a surprise for you guys! I think you'll like it :D
So its the end of a lovely day. It all started yesterday when strandsofmagic (Rella aka Emrys from fanforum) and I went to pick up our tickets for the Merlin BFI event. Then this morning we hung out there from about 9 in the morning. We ended up meeting Angel Coulby and Anthony Stewart Head and getting pics with them! (which are posted below) But unfortunately the rest of the cast had gone in through a different back door. So we went inside and waited around. A nice security guard told us a couch to sit on where we might catch a glimpse of the cast as they moved about. And indeed we did. Angel came out and saw us and remembering us she waved to us. Katie walked past us and so did Bradley and Colin! We ended up running into Angel about 5 times today haha. Then about 11:30 we headed back into the main foyer for the start of the workshop. There were costumes contests, free giveaway, merchandise stalls, and many more things. We grabbed free season 3 posters, and I bought Arthur and Morgana action figures, the stamp sheet, and one of the Merlin books. Then we got into the line for the autograph signing. One of the photographers for the event asked to take a picture of us since we were one of the first in line, so I wonder if that will show up anywhere. Then the cast came down and there was immediate panic because Bradley wasn't there as they were seated. As I was one of the first people in line I got a signing from Angel who was very sweet and then went over to Katie. I asked her where Bradley was and she coyly said "I think he's planning something special for you guys" and assured me he'd be there later. I talked to Katie for a good 10 minutes I think haha. She's the sweetest person on Earth! She even remembered me from Paris comic-con which was like 3 months ago! When she saw me today she went, "Hang on, I know you!" and I told her I'd been at comic-con and she laughed and said I was a loyal supporter. I told her I was Team Morgana this season and she leaned towards me and with that little grin she does she whispered "So am I!" and then Arthur/Morgana fans prepare to love me because I gave her a copy of Road to Avalon! She was very gracious and seemed genuinely thrilled to have the book. She was practically squeeing over it. She told me it was one she hadn't read yet and then proceeded to jokingly ask me, "Am I in it?" and I laughed and told her a lot and she responded, "Good!" She's such a Morgana fangirl, I love it! And then get this, she had me sign the book for her! "That's how it works!" she said with a laugh. So adorable. I love that woman. I went over to ASH and Richard then and they very kindly signed postcards for me. And Richard asked me where I was from and as I responded the U.S. Colin overheard and came into the conversation *cue fangirl squee* and he asked me where in the U.S. I was from. I told him California and he smiled and said "That's great!" And I went over to him to get his autograph at that point and keep talking to him. I talked to him about San Diego comic-con and how I go every year but the one year he went I was in London. And he laughed and gave me an"awww" face and I mentioned that I hoped they would go again next year and Colin lit up and was like "I hope so too!" He said he had a great time and really enjoyed it and wanted to go back :D He's so cute, its ridiculous. I talked to him for a little longer and then had to move along.
I left the autograph line just as an announcer came into the balcony area and asked if we'd like to see a special guest: Prince Arthur himself. So naturally everyone screamed yes. So Bradley came out and did his whole bit that he did at BAFTA about being the best at stunts and not needing anyone else etc. So Andreas came out and they did their skit. It was pretty much a repeat of what happened at BAFTA. But Bradley managed not to drop his sword this time lol. And after that ended he proceeded to run down and join the autograph signing. So I rushed back to get back in line and try to meet Bradley. But unfortunately it didn't make it to me. And apparently they had moved Angel to sit in the empty space to Katie that was originally Bradley's seat and moved Bradley to the end of the table where Angel had been sitting. And at that point we all went in for the screening. They had to split it into 2 rooms because there was such a high demand. So the cast came into the room I was in and they sat in the very back row and to my pleasure as an Arthur/Morgana fan Bradley and Katie were sitting next to each other and whispering throughout the screening and I saw Katie put her hand on his back as they got up for their bathroom break <3 Oh and as a major bonus for me, as Katie was walking up the stairs to the back she had to pass my aisle seat and she saw me and legitimately paused and waved to me and said "Hi Neda!" Second time she remembered me!
So for the episode:
Morgana: Wow. Talk about 180 degree turn. I mean I knew she was gonna be "'evil" this season, but just wow. So putting aside that it was a little rushed and didn't really make sense in some ways, Katie pulled it off beautifully. That woman can do anything. Her evil smirk is just *guh* We have Morgana running into Arthur and Merlin and being returned to Camelot. Where she immediately proceeds to plot against everyone. She even stabs a soldier who spots her sneaking back to Camelot without a second thought. And then when he survives she ironically uses the poison Merlin used on her against the soldier. Without a hint of remorse. She does a lot of slinking around in this episode as she keeps sneaking in and out of Camelot to plot with Morgause. She seems to feel no remorse about anything. Except one shot where you get the sense, just for a moment, that she's not sure but then that vanishes. But Katie looked beautiful being evil and she does it so well!
Arthur/Morgana: My OTP so I'll talk about them first. We got the epic moment from the trailer where he finds her in the woods and just breathes out "Morgana". The look on his face just melts my heart. But having seen filming pics she was supposed to be riding on his horse and there was supposed to be a scene in the Camelot courtyard where another knight carries her off inside while Arthur says something about Morgana to Merlin. But it was cut :( So I was prepared to be upset for the rest of the episode since right after Arthur's "Morgana!" there's a quick shot of them all riding on horses (and Morgana is perhaps on Arthur's horse, but I couldn't tell because it was quick) and the next shot is of her in her bed in her chambers. Uther wants to see her but Gaius says to wait until morning. So in the morning who is the first one in her chambers? Arthur is! Gaius tells Merlin that Arthur has summoned him to Morgana's chambers and Merlin nervously heads over only to find Arthur and Morgana sitting on Morgana's bed and Morgana sobbing to Arthur about how she couldn't believe it when she saw him in the woods. And Arthur is so relieved to be with her and he's soothing her telling her that she's safe now and HE PULLS HER INTO A HUG! Yeah my fangirl heart just about died right there. Then Morgana notices Merlin over Arthur's shoulder and gives him the evil eye. Arthur notices Merlin a moment later and Arthur and Morgana almost guiltily move apart. Arthur gets up to leave, which leaves Merlin and Morgana alone. Then later on Arthur is crying in Uther's chambers over his father being ill. Morgana comes in and puts her hands on his shoulder. Arthur says something like "I need him to be okay" And Morgana says "I know" and then getting an evil look in her eye she says. "We'll make sure he's looked after". Arthur places his arm around her waist and pulls her slightly closer and says "I'm glad you're here" such sweet moments! <3 And then at the end of the episode Merlin tries to talk to Arthur and says, "I have to tell you something. About Morgana" but Arthur brushes him off and says "I already know what happened" and goes up to proudly stand by his father while Uther declares Morgana the savior of Camelot. Also it might be my imagination as an ArMor shipper but I feel like Arthur raised his glass just slightly higher than everyone else's at the toast to Lady Morgana ;)
Morgana/Gwen: They didn't have a huge amount of screentime this episode. Gwen wasn't around all that much in general actually. Their first scene was Gwen promising to stay by Morgana's side as she slept her first night back. Then Morgana returned one night from scheming with Morgause and had her cloak full of some sort of concoction she and Morgause had been brewing with mandrake root and she had just killed the soldier when Gwen decides to turn up to Morgana's room to check on her because the light is on. Morgana hastily tosses her cloak out of sight as Gwen comes in and is standing in the room in her lovely red dress. Gwen is surprised that Morgana is still dressed in her clothes and Morgana snaps that Gwen can go and that she can dress herself, so Gwen leaves looking a little upset. Their next scene was Morgana staring out the window at Arthur and Merlin after thinking Morgause had killed Merlin. When Gwen asks her what's wrong she tries to airily play it off and says, "Oh I was thinking about what to wear" (at which the audience laughed). There was also a shot of Morgana and Gwen in the infirmary helping to heal soldiers later but they didn't interact.
Morgana/Uther: Uther was incredibly concerned for his ward. Despite Gaius constantly telling him it was madness Uther refused to give up looking for her. He wants to go see her the moment she returns but Gaius is already suspicious and tells Uther that he had better wait til morning. But of course Arthur is in her chambers in the morning. So after Morgana is dressed she goes to the great hall and runs and hugs Uther and has a tearful reunion with him. Emphasis on tearful because the tears were the key. Morgana wipes away Uther's happy tears with a handkerchief which she gives to Morgause for her spell. Uther dotes on Morgana like no father ever has and he says he would have given up anything in the world to see Morgana's smile again. Morgana pretends to be sorry she hurt Uther after he has been so kind to her and acts extremely grateful to be back with him. But every time his back is turned she makes a face of disgust and disdain. She rushes back to Morgause's side and helps her enchant Uther and Morgana places the spelled mandrake root under Uther's bed so he'll lose his mind. Uther throws a feast for Morgana and makes a touching toast to which she acts teary eyed and hugs him but then looks repulsed. As Uther starts to wobble and not feel well (think epicly drunk Uther stumbling outside with a goofy look and yelling "Arthur?" ) he heads outside for air and Morgana gets her evil smirk back (I lost how many times she evily smirked in these two episodes). Uther sees the ghost of Igraine in the well, grabbing his hand and the ghosts of Druid children he had drowned. Morgana shows no real emotion towards Uther except when people are watching. When Arthur is in the room with her she holds Uther's hand and pretends to be upset and as soon as Arthur leaves she drops his hand with contempt. She even pulls on the mandrake root at one point to increase Uther's suffering. She no longer has any affection for Uther left as she is completely certain Uther would have her killed in an instant now that she's embraced magic. Morgana is furious when she finds out Merlin removed the mandrake root and helped heal Uther. But she acts pleased and happy when he proclaims her the savior of Camelot in front of Merlin, Arthur, and the whole court.
Merlin/Gaius: Gaius was basically having a mantra of giving up on Morgana this episode. Merlin in a really sad moment asked Gaius what would happen to him if Morgana told the truth about the poisoning. Merlin immediately tells Gaius when he realizes Morgana is a traitor. Merlin pulls the mandrake root out from under Uther's bed and they help heal him. Then later Gaius spots Morgana searching under the bed and he pointedly asks her if she's lost anything, knowing full well what she's looking for. She breezily responds that she thinks she lost her earring but gives Gaius a look as he leaves after telling her Uther was getting better. Merlin ends up in the middle of battle with Arthur and he rushes back inside to tell Gaius to keep an eye on Morgana and then rushes outside to Arthur again. So Gaius tries to keep an eye on her but Morgana catches him looking at her not so subtly from across the room and being the young agile woman she is she sprints outside and up some steps to her chambers and Gaius obviously could not keep up. So by the time he gets there Morgana already has what she needs and has hidden, so Gaius just leaves. When Merlin turns up a little later asking where Morgana is and realizes Gaius lost her he gives an exasperated look like "Didn't I just tell you to keep an eye on her?!"
Arthur/Gwen: There were 2 Arthur/Gwen scenes in this episode. After Uther has fallen ill and Arthur is forced by Gaius and the council to take over Camelot. Gwen comes into his chambers. She tells him to have more faith in himself. Then puts her hand on his arm and tells him that she has more faith in him than she has in Uther or any other man. Arthur puts his hand over hers and stares at her longingly. He almost kisses her but Gwen pulls back and says, "I better leave, Sire" He tells her there is no need to call him "sire" but she says there is every need and then leaves. Later as Arthur is preparing for war against Cendred he catches Gwen's eye from across the room and they share a brief look. Some members of the audience did seem to cheer for them.
Merlin/Gwen: Sadly this adorable duo was pretty much ignored in these episodes. They had one moment where Merlin rushes by asking if she's seen Gaius and she says no. And that's about it.
Morgause/Cendred: Morgause has apparently been spending time with Cendred for some time now in order to secure his cooperation in taking down Camelot. They have a very flirty relationship with some innuendos that older audience members certainly laughed at during the screening. "I don't think with my sword Morgause". She taunts him saying he's lost his nerve and he agrees to help her because she promises him she has a traitor in Camelot that will help them and they can absolutely count on her. So he leads his army against Camelot and they wait for Morgana to summon a skeleton army to help them. But after that army is defeated by Merlin Cendred abandons Morgause and pulls back his men saying "I would rather fail you Morgause than watch thousands of men die". But their banter was hilarious throughout the episode and they seem evenly matched, I kinda ship it lol.
Morgana/Merlin: Merlin looks like he's about to pee himself when Morgana returns. He's worried she'll tell that he poisoned her and he tells Gaius this. Then the next morning Gaius tells him that Arthur has summoned him...into Morgana's chambers. Merlin arrives to find Arthur and Morgana tearfully embracing. Morgana gives him the evil eye over Arthur's shoulder. Arthur leaves after noticing Merlin but Morgana firmly calls out, "Merlin, I need to speak with you!" She flat out tells him that she knows what he did, that he tried to poison her. But then she tells him that she's learned the error of her ways. She was so naive to trust in Morgause and Merlin was just trying to protect Camelot and his friends. She says she would have done the same in his place. So they share smiles and Merlin says its great to have her back, face full of relief and Morgana gives a big smile. But then she later goes to Morgause and mocks Merlin. "Merlin thinks I've changed. And I have. And soon he's gong to find out exactly how much". Merlin starts to get suspicious of Morgana and follows her out at night again. Stalking Morgana is becoming a habit Merlin lol. Morgana meets Morgause in the woods and boasts about how well their plan is going. But then says that Merlin suspects her but he can easily be stopped. Morgause asks how and Morgana turns with a snarl and says "Because he's already here! Did you really think I was that stupid Merlin?!" Merlin stands up from his hiding place, looks at Morgana, and then literally books it out of there for his life. But Morgause's men get him and drag him back to Morgause. She ties him up in enchanted chains. She asks him why a lowly servant is willing to give up his life for Arthur and Camelot time and time again. Merlin says its because he believes in a just kingdom. Morgause knows there's more to the story but Merlin won't tell when she asks him so Morgause leaves him tied up and goes. With the help of the dragon Merlin returns to Camelot and Morgana is furious. As Merlin is walking down a corridor she grabs his arm viciously and pulls him in an alcove. She basically snarls threats at him. She says cruel things to him and says that if he so much as breathes a word she will make his life a living hell and make sure he dies in the slowest most painful way. And then proceeds to blackmail him by asking what he thought Uther would do if he found out a mere serving boy poisoned his beloved ward? And then Morgana leaves Merlin looking very disturbed. Merlin asks Gaius to keep an eye on Morgana during the battle that commences but Gaius obviously fails. Morgana takes a magic staff Morgause has given her and summons a skeleton army. Merlin follows her down to the tombs. He begs her not to do this. To find another way. She gets angry and asks him what he would know about having magic and hating yourself for who you are and fearing you would be killed just for being born the way you are. In my opinion this is a glimpse into the hurt Morgana is feeling. The real reasons for her actions. Had Merlin told her at that moment about his powers I think she would have stopped. But Merlin doesn't do it. Yet again he lies to her. He tells her that if he did have powers he would want to use them for good because that's how magic should be. Morgana gets even angrier and literally tries to chop off his head with a sword. Merlin grabs a sword and they duel. Morgana doesn't hold back at all and I think she even stabs him at one point. Finally she slams the sword out of Merlin's hand and he asks, "What are you going to do? Kill me?" She maliciously asks "You don't think I can?" as she crouches toward him with her sword. Merlin starts to realize he's outmatched in sword fighting and so turns to magic. He collapses the ceiling on top of Morgana so she passes out. He then uses magic to snap the rod in two that was summoning the skeleton army and therefore saves Arthur and Camelot yet again because they were not winning against the skeletons. Later in the court room Merlin tries to talk to Arthur about Morgana but Arthur waves him off saying he already knows what happened. And as Morgana gives Merlin eerily evil looks Uther pronounces her the savior of Camelot.
Merlin/Dragon: Merlin tried every spell he could to get away once Morgause has caught and tied him up but Morgause's magic is apparently more powerful than his and he can't do anything. And then ironically the serkets (scorpions) who attacked Morgana attacked him. (First the poison now the scorpions, Morgana certainly is giving back what she got haha). One of them stings Merlin and in anger he gets a burst of power and sends it crashing into pieces. So with his last attempt he yells out in an old language, calling the dragon to his side as he falls to the ground. The dragon carries him away and heals him. When Merlin wakes up the dragon tells him that he is still weak and the dragon could not have resisted his call even if he had wanted to. Then he tells Merlin that seeing the good in others will be his undoing. He says it was a mistake to ever trust Morgana. "she is the darkness to your light. The hatred to your love. But now your destines are intertwined" or something like that. And the dragon reminds Merlin that he had warned him about Morgana and he hadn't listened. Merlin tells him he needs to get back to Camelot, and apparently now Merlin is a dragon rider because this time he rides the dragon's back all the way to Camelot in a shot a la Harry Potter on the Hippogriff.
Arthur/Uther: Arthur once again proves himself loyal to Uther until the end. When Uther is taken ill by Morgana's spell Arthur tries to help his father and keep it as quiet as possible. He even sits at Uther's bedside crying when Morgana comes in to comfort him and tells Gwen that he wishes his father were there. When Gaius suggests that Arthur take over Arthur is furious and calls it treason. He says as long as there is breath in Uther's body Arthur will serve and remain loyal to him. When Uther heals and rushes out to battle Arthur quickly drags him back inside for his own safety, though Uther gets shot in the leg on the way. Arthur promises Uther that he will still have a kingdom once he's well.
Morgana/Morgause: I'm not sure if Morgause has told Morgana of their connection or its just a magical community thing but she called her "sister" at least 2 or 3 times. Morgana is very adoring of Morgause, its almost scary. She smiles like a little fangirl at Morgause and tells her "You can do anything!" and constantly tells her she won't let her down and won't fail her. And Morgause seems to have utter faith that Morgana won't fail in her part and says Morgana can be counted on until the end. Morgana also mentions to Morgause that her magic is still weak. So she can wield it now I'm assuming, just not very well.
Arthur/Merlin: One of the best parts for last! There were so many funny and touching Arthur/Merlin parts that I lost track. There's Merlin telling Arthur that he's always going to be by his side protecting him. He also calls Arthur a "dollop head" and Arthur says there's no such word. Merlin claims there is and when Arthur asks for him to define "dollop head" Merlin says, "In two words? Prince Arthur" There's a lot more jokes between Merlin and Arthur about Merlin being scared and at one point Arthur pretends to imitating Merlin fighting with a sword to the amusement of his knights and then gives Merlin a satisfied face. So then Merlin decides to magic the sword out of Arthur's hand while he's training with a knight so Arthur gets smacked in the stomach haha. Merlin uses magic to save Arthur yet again and Arthur is clueless. He looks around and sees Merlin lying on the ground in the woods behind a tree trunk and tells him they're not playing hide and seek! Merlin doesn't want to leave Arthur's side during the battle and at one point Merlin tells Arthur he believes in his destiny to which Arthur looks at him like he's insane and asks if he's been on the cider haha. But Merlin gives a really touching speech about how Arthur is destined to be the greatest king and this victory will be remembered through the ages and though he tries not to act like it Arthur is touched and calls Merlin wise. Awww.
Then they showed another trailer! A lot of it was stuff we had already seen, things that stuck out to me were shirtless Gawain, Morgana in a dark throne with a crown on her head (squee), and Gwen telling Gaius that Morgana has changed and doesn't mean well for any of them any more and what looks like another A/G kiss.
I think that's about it. The day was such a blur that I'm sure I forgot something haha. If there's someone you want to know about that I forgot to mention, feel free to ask!
Q&A: Not much new stuff, so I'll just put what i can remember. The scene of Colin riding the dragon is apparently Colin in a shed on a mechanical bull haha. There was a question about whether Merlin's hat would return to which Johnny joked there would be an episode and a spin-off series. There was a question about whether a Merlin convention would be possible but Julian and Johnny didn't have the answer. The cast were asked who they would like to play: Katie said Katherine the Great, Angel said Cleopatra, I didn't hear what ASH said Shakespeare I think, Richard said there wasn't anyone he wanted to play and Bradley said he wanted to play Richard haha, and Colin couldn't come up with anything as Merlin is already the dream role so a fan suggested the Doctor to much applause. There were mentions again of how tight the budget was and how hard they had to work to make each series bigger and better. Pierrefonds was mentioned and how different it is there from Wales because fans come see them. They did make a point of saying it can be distracting though, so if you're going to Pierrefonds please be respectful. And Colin was asked about doing emotional scenes. He says its something that just happens, and he feels like emotional scenes are easier than comedy because with comedy the moment you try you fail. They (well Bradley and Angel I guess) were asked about what it was like to kiss their co-stars to which Bradley said it wasn't romantic at all as they were shining lights in your face and telling you to keep moving your head and it was awkward. To which Katie leaned so far forward in her seat I thought she was going to fall out and gave Bradley a shocked death-glare haha. Angel gave kissing Bradley a 2 out of 10 and Bradley gave kissing Angel a 1 out of 10. Katie was asked about the Merlin/Morgana sword fight. She nodded happily and seemed really impressed with it though she added, "I would like to see that its all my own work, but its not!" And Bradley jumped in saying something about Katie and hair pulling I think to which Katie leaned forward to look at him and went "OY HEY!" lmao. And my favorite question: Someone mentioned reading the synopsis for the episodes and that Morgana and Morgause were referred to as "the evil sisters" and she said that was a bit harsh and she didn't think that was right because they may be doing the wrong things but its for the right reasons since Uther is a tyrant and they're trying to protect their own. Katie grinned and leaned forward and was like "I like you!" She said she felt that Morgana was just in a bad position and felt that she had to side with the magical community against Uther and had no choice. Her mantra for the season is "evil is just a point of view". Though she is afraid of kids throwing stuff at her now for hurting Merlin. Awww Katie. And thats all I can remember, I'll add more later if I remember anything.
So then it was the end of the day and we all lined up in the hallway to watch them go out but the security guards moved us along and said there would be no signing. But being the persistent fans we all are we just waited outside instead. They came out one by one and had heavy security and publicists around them. Bradley was first and didn't really stop. He gave a few smiles but just kept going and yelled out "Thanks for coming!" Then Colin came and he was smiling and gracious and saying "Thanks so much for coming everyone!" and I think he remembered me because he turned to me and gave me a smile and a thumbs up! Richard left but on his way he actually paused to sign for people. When Angel came out people crowded her to the point where she seemed overwhelmed and the security had to move people away from her. Katie came out as bubbly and lovely as always. The security were surrounding her so she was apologizing at the door that she couldn't stop and sign for people but gave in and signed for 2 people but had to move on. Then she saw me and legitimately stopped. She held out her hand towards me and was like "Bye Neda! Thanks for coming! And thanks so much for the book!" I just about died. And I managed to get out a "Bye Katie! You're welcome, I hope you like it!" before she had to go. I.love.that.woman.
Pictures:
^ That's Colin by the way haha. After he walked by me.
And now for the surprise for the Arthur/Morgana fans: TA DA! Credit for the pic goes to strandsofmagic because my camera was acting up. Katie with her new copy of Road to Avalon :D
Arthur and Morgana fans: There's a picture at the end that's a surprise for you guys! I think you'll like it :D
So its the end of a lovely day. It all started yesterday when strandsofmagic (Rella aka Emrys from fanforum) and I went to pick up our tickets for the Merlin BFI event. Then this morning we hung out there from about 9 in the morning. We ended up meeting Angel Coulby and Anthony Stewart Head and getting pics with them! (which are posted below) But unfortunately the rest of the cast had gone in through a different back door. So we went inside and waited around. A nice security guard told us a couch to sit on where we might catch a glimpse of the cast as they moved about. And indeed we did. Angel came out and saw us and remembering us she waved to us. Katie walked past us and so did Bradley and Colin! We ended up running into Angel about 5 times today haha. Then about 11:30 we headed back into the main foyer for the start of the workshop. There were costumes contests, free giveaway, merchandise stalls, and many more things. We grabbed free season 3 posters, and I bought Arthur and Morgana action figures, the stamp sheet, and one of the Merlin books. Then we got into the line for the autograph signing. One of the photographers for the event asked to take a picture of us since we were one of the first in line, so I wonder if that will show up anywhere. Then the cast came down and there was immediate panic because Bradley wasn't there as they were seated. As I was one of the first people in line I got a signing from Angel who was very sweet and then went over to Katie. I asked her where Bradley was and she coyly said "I think he's planning something special for you guys" and assured me he'd be there later. I talked to Katie for a good 10 minutes I think haha. She's the sweetest person on Earth! She even remembered me from Paris comic-con which was like 3 months ago! When she saw me today she went, "Hang on, I know you!" and I told her I'd been at comic-con and she laughed and said I was a loyal supporter. I told her I was Team Morgana this season and she leaned towards me and with that little grin she does she whispered "So am I!" and then Arthur/Morgana fans prepare to love me because I gave her a copy of Road to Avalon! She was very gracious and seemed genuinely thrilled to have the book. She was practically squeeing over it. She told me it was one she hadn't read yet and then proceeded to jokingly ask me, "Am I in it?" and I laughed and told her a lot and she responded, "Good!" She's such a Morgana fangirl, I love it! And then get this, she had me sign the book for her! "That's how it works!" she said with a laugh. So adorable. I love that woman. I went over to ASH and Richard then and they very kindly signed postcards for me. And Richard asked me where I was from and as I responded the U.S. Colin overheard and came into the conversation *cue fangirl squee* and he asked me where in the U.S. I was from. I told him California and he smiled and said "That's great!" And I went over to him to get his autograph at that point and keep talking to him. I talked to him about San Diego comic-con and how I go every year but the one year he went I was in London. And he laughed and gave me an"awww" face and I mentioned that I hoped they would go again next year and Colin lit up and was like "I hope so too!" He said he had a great time and really enjoyed it and wanted to go back :D He's so cute, its ridiculous. I talked to him for a little longer and then had to move along.
I left the autograph line just as an announcer came into the balcony area and asked if we'd like to see a special guest: Prince Arthur himself. So naturally everyone screamed yes. So Bradley came out and did his whole bit that he did at BAFTA about being the best at stunts and not needing anyone else etc. So Andreas came out and they did their skit. It was pretty much a repeat of what happened at BAFTA. But Bradley managed not to drop his sword this time lol. And after that ended he proceeded to run down and join the autograph signing. So I rushed back to get back in line and try to meet Bradley. But unfortunately it didn't make it to me. And apparently they had moved Angel to sit in the empty space to Katie that was originally Bradley's seat and moved Bradley to the end of the table where Angel had been sitting. And at that point we all went in for the screening. They had to split it into 2 rooms because there was such a high demand. So the cast came into the room I was in and they sat in the very back row and to my pleasure as an Arthur/Morgana fan Bradley and Katie were sitting next to each other and whispering throughout the screening and I saw Katie put her hand on his back as they got up for their bathroom break <3 Oh and as a major bonus for me, as Katie was walking up the stairs to the back she had to pass my aisle seat and she saw me and legitimately paused and waved to me and said "Hi Neda!" Second time she remembered me!
So for the episode:
Morgana: Wow. Talk about 180 degree turn. I mean I knew she was gonna be "'evil" this season, but just wow. So putting aside that it was a little rushed and didn't really make sense in some ways, Katie pulled it off beautifully. That woman can do anything. Her evil smirk is just *guh* We have Morgana running into Arthur and Merlin and being returned to Camelot. Where she immediately proceeds to plot against everyone. She even stabs a soldier who spots her sneaking back to Camelot without a second thought. And then when he survives she ironically uses the poison Merlin used on her against the soldier. Without a hint of remorse. She does a lot of slinking around in this episode as she keeps sneaking in and out of Camelot to plot with Morgause. She seems to feel no remorse about anything. Except one shot where you get the sense, just for a moment, that she's not sure but then that vanishes. But Katie looked beautiful being evil and she does it so well!
Arthur/Morgana: My OTP so I'll talk about them first. We got the epic moment from the trailer where he finds her in the woods and just breathes out "Morgana". The look on his face just melts my heart. But having seen filming pics she was supposed to be riding on his horse and there was supposed to be a scene in the Camelot courtyard where another knight carries her off inside while Arthur says something about Morgana to Merlin. But it was cut :( So I was prepared to be upset for the rest of the episode since right after Arthur's "Morgana!" there's a quick shot of them all riding on horses (and Morgana is perhaps on Arthur's horse, but I couldn't tell because it was quick) and the next shot is of her in her bed in her chambers. Uther wants to see her but Gaius says to wait until morning. So in the morning who is the first one in her chambers? Arthur is! Gaius tells Merlin that Arthur has summoned him to Morgana's chambers and Merlin nervously heads over only to find Arthur and Morgana sitting on Morgana's bed and Morgana sobbing to Arthur about how she couldn't believe it when she saw him in the woods. And Arthur is so relieved to be with her and he's soothing her telling her that she's safe now and HE PULLS HER INTO A HUG! Yeah my fangirl heart just about died right there. Then Morgana notices Merlin over Arthur's shoulder and gives him the evil eye. Arthur notices Merlin a moment later and Arthur and Morgana almost guiltily move apart. Arthur gets up to leave, which leaves Merlin and Morgana alone. Then later on Arthur is crying in Uther's chambers over his father being ill. Morgana comes in and puts her hands on his shoulder. Arthur says something like "I need him to be okay" And Morgana says "I know" and then getting an evil look in her eye she says. "We'll make sure he's looked after". Arthur places his arm around her waist and pulls her slightly closer and says "I'm glad you're here" such sweet moments! <3 And then at the end of the episode Merlin tries to talk to Arthur and says, "I have to tell you something. About Morgana" but Arthur brushes him off and says "I already know what happened" and goes up to proudly stand by his father while Uther declares Morgana the savior of Camelot. Also it might be my imagination as an ArMor shipper but I feel like Arthur raised his glass just slightly higher than everyone else's at the toast to Lady Morgana ;)
Morgana/Gwen: They didn't have a huge amount of screentime this episode. Gwen wasn't around all that much in general actually. Their first scene was Gwen promising to stay by Morgana's side as she slept her first night back. Then Morgana returned one night from scheming with Morgause and had her cloak full of some sort of concoction she and Morgause had been brewing with mandrake root and she had just killed the soldier when Gwen decides to turn up to Morgana's room to check on her because the light is on. Morgana hastily tosses her cloak out of sight as Gwen comes in and is standing in the room in her lovely red dress. Gwen is surprised that Morgana is still dressed in her clothes and Morgana snaps that Gwen can go and that she can dress herself, so Gwen leaves looking a little upset. Their next scene was Morgana staring out the window at Arthur and Merlin after thinking Morgause had killed Merlin. When Gwen asks her what's wrong she tries to airily play it off and says, "Oh I was thinking about what to wear" (at which the audience laughed). There was also a shot of Morgana and Gwen in the infirmary helping to heal soldiers later but they didn't interact.
Morgana/Uther: Uther was incredibly concerned for his ward. Despite Gaius constantly telling him it was madness Uther refused to give up looking for her. He wants to go see her the moment she returns but Gaius is already suspicious and tells Uther that he had better wait til morning. But of course Arthur is in her chambers in the morning. So after Morgana is dressed she goes to the great hall and runs and hugs Uther and has a tearful reunion with him. Emphasis on tearful because the tears were the key. Morgana wipes away Uther's happy tears with a handkerchief which she gives to Morgause for her spell. Uther dotes on Morgana like no father ever has and he says he would have given up anything in the world to see Morgana's smile again. Morgana pretends to be sorry she hurt Uther after he has been so kind to her and acts extremely grateful to be back with him. But every time his back is turned she makes a face of disgust and disdain. She rushes back to Morgause's side and helps her enchant Uther and Morgana places the spelled mandrake root under Uther's bed so he'll lose his mind. Uther throws a feast for Morgana and makes a touching toast to which she acts teary eyed and hugs him but then looks repulsed. As Uther starts to wobble and not feel well (think epicly drunk Uther stumbling outside with a goofy look and yelling "Arthur?" ) he heads outside for air and Morgana gets her evil smirk back (I lost how many times she evily smirked in these two episodes). Uther sees the ghost of Igraine in the well, grabbing his hand and the ghosts of Druid children he had drowned. Morgana shows no real emotion towards Uther except when people are watching. When Arthur is in the room with her she holds Uther's hand and pretends to be upset and as soon as Arthur leaves she drops his hand with contempt. She even pulls on the mandrake root at one point to increase Uther's suffering. She no longer has any affection for Uther left as she is completely certain Uther would have her killed in an instant now that she's embraced magic. Morgana is furious when she finds out Merlin removed the mandrake root and helped heal Uther. But she acts pleased and happy when he proclaims her the savior of Camelot in front of Merlin, Arthur, and the whole court.
Merlin/Gaius: Gaius was basically having a mantra of giving up on Morgana this episode. Merlin in a really sad moment asked Gaius what would happen to him if Morgana told the truth about the poisoning. Merlin immediately tells Gaius when he realizes Morgana is a traitor. Merlin pulls the mandrake root out from under Uther's bed and they help heal him. Then later Gaius spots Morgana searching under the bed and he pointedly asks her if she's lost anything, knowing full well what she's looking for. She breezily responds that she thinks she lost her earring but gives Gaius a look as he leaves after telling her Uther was getting better. Merlin ends up in the middle of battle with Arthur and he rushes back inside to tell Gaius to keep an eye on Morgana and then rushes outside to Arthur again. So Gaius tries to keep an eye on her but Morgana catches him looking at her not so subtly from across the room and being the young agile woman she is she sprints outside and up some steps to her chambers and Gaius obviously could not keep up. So by the time he gets there Morgana already has what she needs and has hidden, so Gaius just leaves. When Merlin turns up a little later asking where Morgana is and realizes Gaius lost her he gives an exasperated look like "Didn't I just tell you to keep an eye on her?!"
Arthur/Gwen: There were 2 Arthur/Gwen scenes in this episode. After Uther has fallen ill and Arthur is forced by Gaius and the council to take over Camelot. Gwen comes into his chambers. She tells him to have more faith in himself. Then puts her hand on his arm and tells him that she has more faith in him than she has in Uther or any other man. Arthur puts his hand over hers and stares at her longingly. He almost kisses her but Gwen pulls back and says, "I better leave, Sire" He tells her there is no need to call him "sire" but she says there is every need and then leaves. Later as Arthur is preparing for war against Cendred he catches Gwen's eye from across the room and they share a brief look. Some members of the audience did seem to cheer for them.
Merlin/Gwen: Sadly this adorable duo was pretty much ignored in these episodes. They had one moment where Merlin rushes by asking if she's seen Gaius and she says no. And that's about it.
Morgause/Cendred: Morgause has apparently been spending time with Cendred for some time now in order to secure his cooperation in taking down Camelot. They have a very flirty relationship with some innuendos that older audience members certainly laughed at during the screening. "I don't think with my sword Morgause". She taunts him saying he's lost his nerve and he agrees to help her because she promises him she has a traitor in Camelot that will help them and they can absolutely count on her. So he leads his army against Camelot and they wait for Morgana to summon a skeleton army to help them. But after that army is defeated by Merlin Cendred abandons Morgause and pulls back his men saying "I would rather fail you Morgause than watch thousands of men die". But their banter was hilarious throughout the episode and they seem evenly matched, I kinda ship it lol.
Morgana/Merlin: Merlin looks like he's about to pee himself when Morgana returns. He's worried she'll tell that he poisoned her and he tells Gaius this. Then the next morning Gaius tells him that Arthur has summoned him...into Morgana's chambers. Merlin arrives to find Arthur and Morgana tearfully embracing. Morgana gives him the evil eye over Arthur's shoulder. Arthur leaves after noticing Merlin but Morgana firmly calls out, "Merlin, I need to speak with you!" She flat out tells him that she knows what he did, that he tried to poison her. But then she tells him that she's learned the error of her ways. She was so naive to trust in Morgause and Merlin was just trying to protect Camelot and his friends. She says she would have done the same in his place. So they share smiles and Merlin says its great to have her back, face full of relief and Morgana gives a big smile. But then she later goes to Morgause and mocks Merlin. "Merlin thinks I've changed. And I have. And soon he's gong to find out exactly how much". Merlin starts to get suspicious of Morgana and follows her out at night again. Stalking Morgana is becoming a habit Merlin lol. Morgana meets Morgause in the woods and boasts about how well their plan is going. But then says that Merlin suspects her but he can easily be stopped. Morgause asks how and Morgana turns with a snarl and says "Because he's already here! Did you really think I was that stupid Merlin?!" Merlin stands up from his hiding place, looks at Morgana, and then literally books it out of there for his life. But Morgause's men get him and drag him back to Morgause. She ties him up in enchanted chains. She asks him why a lowly servant is willing to give up his life for Arthur and Camelot time and time again. Merlin says its because he believes in a just kingdom. Morgause knows there's more to the story but Merlin won't tell when she asks him so Morgause leaves him tied up and goes. With the help of the dragon Merlin returns to Camelot and Morgana is furious. As Merlin is walking down a corridor she grabs his arm viciously and pulls him in an alcove. She basically snarls threats at him. She says cruel things to him and says that if he so much as breathes a word she will make his life a living hell and make sure he dies in the slowest most painful way. And then proceeds to blackmail him by asking what he thought Uther would do if he found out a mere serving boy poisoned his beloved ward? And then Morgana leaves Merlin looking very disturbed. Merlin asks Gaius to keep an eye on Morgana during the battle that commences but Gaius obviously fails. Morgana takes a magic staff Morgause has given her and summons a skeleton army. Merlin follows her down to the tombs. He begs her not to do this. To find another way. She gets angry and asks him what he would know about having magic and hating yourself for who you are and fearing you would be killed just for being born the way you are. In my opinion this is a glimpse into the hurt Morgana is feeling. The real reasons for her actions. Had Merlin told her at that moment about his powers I think she would have stopped. But Merlin doesn't do it. Yet again he lies to her. He tells her that if he did have powers he would want to use them for good because that's how magic should be. Morgana gets even angrier and literally tries to chop off his head with a sword. Merlin grabs a sword and they duel. Morgana doesn't hold back at all and I think she even stabs him at one point. Finally she slams the sword out of Merlin's hand and he asks, "What are you going to do? Kill me?" She maliciously asks "You don't think I can?" as she crouches toward him with her sword. Merlin starts to realize he's outmatched in sword fighting and so turns to magic. He collapses the ceiling on top of Morgana so she passes out. He then uses magic to snap the rod in two that was summoning the skeleton army and therefore saves Arthur and Camelot yet again because they were not winning against the skeletons. Later in the court room Merlin tries to talk to Arthur about Morgana but Arthur waves him off saying he already knows what happened. And as Morgana gives Merlin eerily evil looks Uther pronounces her the savior of Camelot.
Merlin/Dragon: Merlin tried every spell he could to get away once Morgause has caught and tied him up but Morgause's magic is apparently more powerful than his and he can't do anything. And then ironically the serkets (scorpions) who attacked Morgana attacked him. (First the poison now the scorpions, Morgana certainly is giving back what she got haha). One of them stings Merlin and in anger he gets a burst of power and sends it crashing into pieces. So with his last attempt he yells out in an old language, calling the dragon to his side as he falls to the ground. The dragon carries him away and heals him. When Merlin wakes up the dragon tells him that he is still weak and the dragon could not have resisted his call even if he had wanted to. Then he tells Merlin that seeing the good in others will be his undoing. He says it was a mistake to ever trust Morgana. "she is the darkness to your light. The hatred to your love. But now your destines are intertwined" or something like that. And the dragon reminds Merlin that he had warned him about Morgana and he hadn't listened. Merlin tells him he needs to get back to Camelot, and apparently now Merlin is a dragon rider because this time he rides the dragon's back all the way to Camelot in a shot a la Harry Potter on the Hippogriff.
Arthur/Uther: Arthur once again proves himself loyal to Uther until the end. When Uther is taken ill by Morgana's spell Arthur tries to help his father and keep it as quiet as possible. He even sits at Uther's bedside crying when Morgana comes in to comfort him and tells Gwen that he wishes his father were there. When Gaius suggests that Arthur take over Arthur is furious and calls it treason. He says as long as there is breath in Uther's body Arthur will serve and remain loyal to him. When Uther heals and rushes out to battle Arthur quickly drags him back inside for his own safety, though Uther gets shot in the leg on the way. Arthur promises Uther that he will still have a kingdom once he's well.
Morgana/Morgause: I'm not sure if Morgause has told Morgana of their connection or its just a magical community thing but she called her "sister" at least 2 or 3 times. Morgana is very adoring of Morgause, its almost scary. She smiles like a little fangirl at Morgause and tells her "You can do anything!" and constantly tells her she won't let her down and won't fail her. And Morgause seems to have utter faith that Morgana won't fail in her part and says Morgana can be counted on until the end. Morgana also mentions to Morgause that her magic is still weak. So she can wield it now I'm assuming, just not very well.
Arthur/Merlin: One of the best parts for last! There were so many funny and touching Arthur/Merlin parts that I lost track. There's Merlin telling Arthur that he's always going to be by his side protecting him. He also calls Arthur a "dollop head" and Arthur says there's no such word. Merlin claims there is and when Arthur asks for him to define "dollop head" Merlin says, "In two words? Prince Arthur" There's a lot more jokes between Merlin and Arthur about Merlin being scared and at one point Arthur pretends to imitating Merlin fighting with a sword to the amusement of his knights and then gives Merlin a satisfied face. So then Merlin decides to magic the sword out of Arthur's hand while he's training with a knight so Arthur gets smacked in the stomach haha. Merlin uses magic to save Arthur yet again and Arthur is clueless. He looks around and sees Merlin lying on the ground in the woods behind a tree trunk and tells him they're not playing hide and seek! Merlin doesn't want to leave Arthur's side during the battle and at one point Merlin tells Arthur he believes in his destiny to which Arthur looks at him like he's insane and asks if he's been on the cider haha. But Merlin gives a really touching speech about how Arthur is destined to be the greatest king and this victory will be remembered through the ages and though he tries not to act like it Arthur is touched and calls Merlin wise. Awww.
Then they showed another trailer! A lot of it was stuff we had already seen, things that stuck out to me were shirtless Gawain, Morgana in a dark throne with a crown on her head (squee), and Gwen telling Gaius that Morgana has changed and doesn't mean well for any of them any more and what looks like another A/G kiss.
I think that's about it. The day was such a blur that I'm sure I forgot something haha. If there's someone you want to know about that I forgot to mention, feel free to ask!
Q&A: Not much new stuff, so I'll just put what i can remember. The scene of Colin riding the dragon is apparently Colin in a shed on a mechanical bull haha. There was a question about whether Merlin's hat would return to which Johnny joked there would be an episode and a spin-off series. There was a question about whether a Merlin convention would be possible but Julian and Johnny didn't have the answer. The cast were asked who they would like to play: Katie said Katherine the Great, Angel said Cleopatra, I didn't hear what ASH said Shakespeare I think, Richard said there wasn't anyone he wanted to play and Bradley said he wanted to play Richard haha, and Colin couldn't come up with anything as Merlin is already the dream role so a fan suggested the Doctor to much applause. There were mentions again of how tight the budget was and how hard they had to work to make each series bigger and better. Pierrefonds was mentioned and how different it is there from Wales because fans come see them. They did make a point of saying it can be distracting though, so if you're going to Pierrefonds please be respectful. And Colin was asked about doing emotional scenes. He says its something that just happens, and he feels like emotional scenes are easier than comedy because with comedy the moment you try you fail. They (well Bradley and Angel I guess) were asked about what it was like to kiss their co-stars to which Bradley said it wasn't romantic at all as they were shining lights in your face and telling you to keep moving your head and it was awkward. To which Katie leaned so far forward in her seat I thought she was going to fall out and gave Bradley a shocked death-glare haha. Angel gave kissing Bradley a 2 out of 10 and Bradley gave kissing Angel a 1 out of 10. Katie was asked about the Merlin/Morgana sword fight. She nodded happily and seemed really impressed with it though she added, "I would like to see that its all my own work, but its not!" And Bradley jumped in saying something about Katie and hair pulling I think to which Katie leaned forward to look at him and went "OY HEY!" lmao. And my favorite question: Someone mentioned reading the synopsis for the episodes and that Morgana and Morgause were referred to as "the evil sisters" and she said that was a bit harsh and she didn't think that was right because they may be doing the wrong things but its for the right reasons since Uther is a tyrant and they're trying to protect their own. Katie grinned and leaned forward and was like "I like you!" She said she felt that Morgana was just in a bad position and felt that she had to side with the magical community against Uther and had no choice. Her mantra for the season is "evil is just a point of view". Though she is afraid of kids throwing stuff at her now for hurting Merlin. Awww Katie. And thats all I can remember, I'll add more later if I remember anything.
So then it was the end of the day and we all lined up in the hallway to watch them go out but the security guards moved us along and said there would be no signing. But being the persistent fans we all are we just waited outside instead. They came out one by one and had heavy security and publicists around them. Bradley was first and didn't really stop. He gave a few smiles but just kept going and yelled out "Thanks for coming!" Then Colin came and he was smiling and gracious and saying "Thanks so much for coming everyone!" and I think he remembered me because he turned to me and gave me a smile and a thumbs up! Richard left but on his way he actually paused to sign for people. When Angel came out people crowded her to the point where she seemed overwhelmed and the security had to move people away from her. Katie came out as bubbly and lovely as always. The security were surrounding her so she was apologizing at the door that she couldn't stop and sign for people but gave in and signed for 2 people but had to move on. Then she saw me and legitimately stopped. She held out her hand towards me and was like "Bye Neda! Thanks for coming! And thanks so much for the book!" I just about died. And I managed to get out a "Bye Katie! You're welcome, I hope you like it!" before she had to go. I.love.that.woman.
Pictures:
^ That's Colin by the way haha. After he walked by me.
And now for the surprise for the Arthur/Morgana fans: TA DA! Credit for the pic goes to strandsofmagic because my camera was acting up. Katie with her new copy of Road to Avalon :D