Charmed Reboot Season 1 Episode 5

[charmed_autistic]

Rating: 4 out of 5

Plot: “Mel is worried about Niko’s safety, so Mel and Harry come up with a plan to protect her; Maggie notices that Macy is upset about her situation with Galvin, so she offers to help; Maggie’s sorority sister Lucy turns to her for some help.”

The plot was satisfactory. There was mystery, intrigue and drama. All good things, in my opinion. The episode flowed well. The intended themes were more present this episode. They had shortcomings but it wasn’t as overwhelming this episode. However there were some boring parts.

Positives: We get to see quite a bit of mythology building again. We also get more background on Harry. Harry was actually likeable and, dare I say, charming this episode. We continue to see the sisters bond growing stronger. The sisters were actually relying on magic this episode. I’m shocked. We see great character growth from Maggie.

Negatives: Honestly, this episode gave me BtVS vibes but not in a good way. We have a witch using her magic to mess around with her girlfriend’s memory. Good intentions or not, it’s still icky, controlling and manipulative. It’s taking away Nico’s free will. I didn’t like it with Tara and Willow and I don’t like it here. Though to be fair, at least Mel isn’t doing it to force her girlfriend into emotionally and sexually abusive situations like Willow did. It’s more ethically akin to Bangel in I Will Remember You. Mel is doing the wrong thing for the right reason. The road to Hell is paved with good intentions. Mel obviously didn’t learn what Maggie did which is honesty is the best policy, even if the truth hurts. Plus, breaking up your only same sex couple in a series is definitely a problem. Harry has no memory of his mortal life. I truly hate that. Also, the villians were extremely boring this episode. Watching paint dry would be more interesting. Finally, the elders being allowed to take, examine and determine the acceptability of spells is something I don’t like .

References to the original (This section contains spoilers for the original series.): There are definitely comparisons to “She’s a Man, Baby, a Man!” Definitely not the best episode to remind us of considering that the episode unintentionally had some transphobic elements to it.

Theories/What I’d Like To See: We need Harry and Nico to get their memories back. I’ve already mentioned the similarities to BtVS so I hope it takes another BtVS like turn with The Charmed Ones having to “fire” the Elders and/or turn the tables where the elders truly understand their place as being not in control of our heroines.

Favorite Character This Episode: Believe it or not, Harry actually was ny favorite. I hated him before but I loved his adorable, sexy self in this episode. Rupert Evans stole every scene he was in.

Favorite Quote/Interaction: Harry to Mel: “As for your argument, I don’t see how Gangsta Bitch Music version 2 could be considered a radical manifesto.”

Tidbits: I still wish there was an opening credits sequence with a banging song like the original. I obviously wouldn’t want “How Soon Is Now” used again because that would be repetitive but something fresh and interesting. Heck, I hate when shows have no opening credits and only use a title card. Hopefully, they can make an opening sequence for season 2. Pretty please with a cherry in top.

Please join me again for next week’s episode. In the meantime, please send me asks and/or messages. I would like to get more involved with the community.