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Shadowhunters: The Mortal Instruments: Malec (2016)
A triumph for fans (and for the LGBTQ community).
So here's the deal: it's been established by episode 12 of 13 that the show is not the books. It is an entity of its own, paying truly thoughtful homage to the source material while maintaining a unique identity.
It's also not a mega-budget, critic favorite. That's not what this is. It was picked up by ABC Family, not bloody HBO.
In other words: If you have found by this episode that you're over whatever issues you have had with the show, you're over it. If not, you may never be. Because this episode was everything I could have dreamed of as a fan, and far more.
The writers are very smart; they chose to bring this specific couple to the forefront of the first season, rather than wait to give it the slow-burn treatment (that most gay relationships seem to get on television, and as it gets in the novels). And what's more is that it is treated like any other beautiful fictional relationship, regardless of sexuality. I feel like in light of recent llama drama relating to LGBTQ folks on TV being treated quite unfairly, this was a refreshing work of television.
This is not an awkward cast; they have genuine chemistry, and my goodness, it shows in this episode. The writers have taken a close look at character personalities, complexes, and inner struggles, and the cast has done fantastic at bringing these people to life.
One aspect I was really impressed by was the historical nature of the plot here; they introduce Ragnor, and you see and here bits that are evocative of The Infernal Devices. As a massive fan of that series, as well, it was heartwarming to watch... And may have made me slightly less skeptical on the subject of a potential adaptation.
Basically: This made the show for me. I'm floored. Thank goodness it's getting a second season; I daresay they will improve!
The 100: Terms and Conditions (2016)
Returning to its roots for the first time in a long time.
I will admit, I'm not fond of Lexa's exit. But it is what it is, and the show has a right to move forward. I think getting to explore minor characters that were once main characters is fantastic, really seeing Kane shine as a character (and see how far he has come since season one in his beliefs), as well as his relationship with Bellamy—who has been in a terrible spot for this season, but finally realizes the error in his ways through Kane. I am so glad the show got renewed. I want it to continue, I want this story to develop. I think, unpopular as my opinion might be, that the show as a whole is stronger after losing Lexa. It could have been very strong had she remained, but seeing how these characters, particularly Clarke, are impacted by her death, will be quite interesting.
I am rather ashamed of the people who feel the need to boycott the show. I understand the sense of betrayal they're feeling and agree they were wronged by certain individuals in the show's leadership. But to attempt to take the entire show down, to put Eliza Taylor and the rest of the truly spectacular ensemble cast out of a job after losing one (albeit, beloved) character is rather juvenile. I hope the show and the cast remains resilient, I hope any needed corrections are made in leadership, and that it continues to shock and enthrall us with its diversity and twisting storyline.
It's been sloppy of late, but shows go through low points. I think it will come out of this better than ever before.