True Blood “I Will Rise Up” S2 EP9 Video Blog Review
Loading ...Posted on: August 19, 2009
Posted in: Featured, Reviews, ThinkHero Original Videos, Video
“It’s done; I’m a part of her now. Get out of the way.” Delivered almost as if he feels sorry for him. NOW we have a love triangle!
First the explosion. I loved seeing Bill after the poor hapless FOTS fools. “We didn’t really think he’d do it!” “Too late.” Now that is the response of a vampire. Although, in the literary counterpart, he did not stop at a warning. The fact that he did here, feels like one more way that the show backs down from anything they fear may complicate their characters psychic, moral or emotional structures. This is disappointing for me, because the more complex and layered they are, the more I want to watch them. Last year Bill killed Sookie’s uncle with no more than a few words from her, adding an element of danger to every casual conversation she may have with him. This year they have backed away from Bill the vampire nearly entirely, and I was glad that they gave Stephen Moyer at least a moment of justifiable rage to play.
Now, the Eric/Sookie blood exchange. Ohhhh, Eric, you little scamp you. My favorite line from the whole exchange “Bill your right; I believe I can sense her emotions.” One little quibble. I do not believe that any fully functioning woman would find it difficult to be powerfully attracted to both these delicious men without the aid of magic blood. I feel like this is another way that the show seems determined to remove their characters self-determination. They seem terrified to have the audience, in any way, think badly of these characters. The result of that fear is that they undermine our ability to process inner conflicts and relate to and love the characters more for them. Is it so hard to imagine that a woman could be in love with one man and simultaneously fear and want another? I mean Eric is funny and hot. I cannot even imagine what it would be like to have two such remarkable specimens fighting over me…Oh wait, yes I can. I’m sorry, you were saying?
The dream. If you did not find this beyond sexy, I plead with you to tell me why. Part of the fun of this show is that flavor of feminine-geared soft core, and this was for me this is the hottest scene since season one. I also felt like they were speaking for me with this exchange “I used to think you had no sense of humor.” “I used to think you were made of cold hard stone and empty inside.” They bring something out in each other, something each of them, though they may not know it, desperately needs. I must admit that having the sense of humor of a fourteen year old boy I did have a couple of “that’s what she said moments. Ahem, “you’re deep.” Well maybe that was more of a “God I hope so” moment. Now, I know there will be some strong disagreement on this one BUT the one line I could have done without in the exchange is “Only for Sookie”. First, why does everyone on this show feel it necessary to address her by her name on such a consistent basis? Really, wouldn’t the appropriate phrase be “only for you?” Are they afraid she may forget her own name and therefore is in need of constant reminders? Additionally, it makes her seem sort of self-involved (it is her dream!). Finally, I feel it undermines the development that we have seen in Eric to date. I would have preferred something more ambiguous, humorous, more Eric like in that moment. If we want heartfelt declarations of undying love – well that is what Bill is for. Also on a personal note, were I in that position (don’t I wish 
) my response to that line would be something along the lines of “Ok…let’s stop with the talking.”
I also feel that this scene was a great testament to the actor’s abilities. The chemistry was stronger than I initially imagined it would be. I also was surprised by how compelled I was by Godric’s final scene with Eric and Sookie. This could have easily slipped into difficult to watch melodrama, but what I felt was compassion for each being involved. Eric’s pain and confusion, Godric’s saddened realization “I told a lie, as it turns out.” And Sookies compassion and faith. “God doesn’t punish, God forgives.” I think that is indeed what many of us hope.
I officially, love Hoyt. Sexual fantasies aside, of all the characters on the show, he is the one I would actually want to date in reality. He is a good man. A genuinely good man. I think what impresses me most about this actor is his ability to authentically deliver lines that have the potential to make me feel proselytized to read as insincere. “No such thing.” In response to Jessica’s “you’re too good for me.” was done with just the right amount of casual sincerity for me to believe that he simply, believes that. His exchange with his mother was one of my favorite scenes of the season. In a show that touches on the idea of good and evil in sometimes heavy handed and polarizing ways, he does so in the most subtle, real and relatable manner. His goodness is simple, as is his mother’s evil. Hers is the most insidious form of hate. Insidious and pervasive, and sadly all too human. I love his gentle confrontation with her. His goading her to confront the genesis of a life filled with hate and abusive control of her son. How many times have we seen this woman in reality? The constant judger, the devouring mother. More times than I’d like to think about. This scene played with humor and sincerity and the most believable kind of love. I also really enjoyed her “shh that’s a secret” and that he ended up taking his grilled cheese sandwich with him after his emotional declaration of his own manhood.
As to unabashed evil, I have been more than ready for the Maryann story to complete, but Michelle Forbes is such a compelling actress that she managed to suck me back in! I found myself thought provoked by her speech on states of ecstasy. It was the first moment I had any sympathy at all for her character. I’ve actually done some reading on states of spiritual ecstasy and in nearly every faith tradition, they do look like moments of total loss of conscious control, Sufi whirling Dervishes, Catholic ecstatic trances, southern snake handling and speaking in tongues – the tie that binds is the giving over of the ego and conscious mind. There was something sincere enough in this moment for me to pause and go, wait this woman truly believes she is doing right by her God. She does not simply dig evil. I enjoy that a rough parallel to the Steve and Sara Newlan/Fellowship of the sun storyline. The lengths that people will go to when their perspective gets distorted by imbalanced fervor. Although she was back to strait up evil for the remainder of the episode and the bar scene was a bit over the top for my tastes.
I loved the scene with Jason and Sookie. His character has come so far this season; I continue to be impressed with Ryan Kwanten’s ability to bring such depths to such a simple man. And the writers willingness to take him further. I look forward to seeing much more of Jason in the coming seasons.
Glad to see Lafayette with some sass and vigor back. I will say once again, that the fight for the soul of Tara and all the other townspeople would be more compelling were it more the result of their own internal conflict rather than simply the result of Maryann’s mindful control.
I did enjoy the Nan Flannigan scene quite a little bit. “I’m on TV, try me”. And quite on point in terms of the hierarchal structure in our society.
This was, all things being equal, my favorite episode of the season, and a great indicator of things to come. I’d love to hear what you guys think, so please post your comments below.
- Roth
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August 19th, 2009 at 6:59 PM
Nan Flanagan is the shit. Seriously, next to Lafayette, she's my favorite character. She's created an entire character with just her presence on the news.
August 19th, 2009 at 7:30 PM
The love triangle came out of nowhere if you ask me. I was hoping we could get some kind of explanation other than the one we received. I was hoping Sookie would eventually come around to liking Eric more than she has in the past. when I saw her beneath him in the rubble of the vampire nest I thought this is the beginning of the love triangle. It was but I just wasn't handled the way I thought they would.
The Blood exchange was eventual and I guess I'm sort of happy it has been done. They could have made a whole season out of Bill trying to protect Sookie from Eric which he would have ultimately failed. I liked the fact that the blood's effect was immediate and she was having dreams of him in the next few scenes.
I have to agree about Hoyt and Jessica, they're kind of like a parallel of Bill and Sookie, that's possibly why we like them so much. I like what just happened with Hoyt standing up to his mom and what not but where does there subplot go from here? I have no idea but it seems as right now that their story doesn't cross paths with either of the major two.
Bon Temps storyline is getting better only because we know we're finally getting close to a conclusion. I like the fact that the seriousness has picked up in order to find Sam.
I really enjoyed Lafayette's scene with Terra and Eggs. I mean was that not expected as soon as we saw those two meet up in the bar? Oh and the second time as Sookie's house was great. I didn't like the last thing Maryann said about how she'll be back and she'll bring them with her.
The acting was great in the episode. I thought that the whole Godric storyline was ok but ended way to quickly. I realize why he did it but thought that he was just relinquishing his Sheriff duties. I might have to watch that part again.
Anyway, the episode has to be a favorite among us True Blood fans but I can't wait for the upcoming episode because we get a preview of Bill and Sookie talking about how to stop a certain female character. I also liked the few shots we get of the town being deserted in the preview for the next episode. It reminded me of those Zombie movies from way back when.
This from Wikipedia for the next episode"
"With all hell breaking loose, Jason takes the bull by the horns to rescue Sam, at least for the moment."
What does this mean? I hope nothing bad…
August 19th, 2009 at 7:49 PM
I remember when the actress playing Nan Flanagan was on Lois and Clark and Seinfeld, hahaha
Dennis
August 19th, 2009 at 9:49 PM
This episode is by far my favorite too. Bill is now officially a complete A-hole. Sucker punching Eric when his maker is on the way to the roof to commit suicide? How low can you go Bill? And every single word he said to Sookie when she told him she wanted to go be with Godric. Get some class Bill.
I was disappointed as well that Bill didn’t kill the FOTS as he did in the books which led to Bill and Sookie’s first book break up. BTW, Sookie, if you don’t want Eric I will gladly take him. That vampire was clearly craved from marble by the gods! That dream sequence was so hot I’m surprised I didn’t burn my TV screen watching it…um …several times. Yeah, several. Let’s keep the number vague. And every time she heard “Bill” I kept expecting her to say “Bill who?”
August 19th, 2009 at 9:49 PM
My favorite part of the show: Eric and Godric. I never imagined that I could like a character so much who only appears in literally 4 episodes. I expected that he would die – even without knowing what happened in the book. The Jesus references were so blatant that I would have been surprised if he hadn’t died. I didn’t expect to be so moved by the story. I owe that to the absolutely tremendous performance by Alexander. OMG – on paper that level of crying and grief just seems melodramatic but Alexander sold it. I actually cried. Also the performance by Allen Hyde was just perfect. I fell in love with HIM in the flashback scene when he made Eric a vampire. How awesome is it that we saw three different completely believable sides to Godric in as many episodes? Blood thirsty I love being a vampire Godric, powerful Ghandi/Jesus Godric, and tired ready to die Godric. And what a testament to Allen’s acting that I saw tired ready to die Godric under every Ghandi performance.
August 19th, 2009 at 9:51 PM
I wanted MORE Godric and Eric. I’m not sure anything short of letting him live would have satisfied me but as it was I was left wanting something more from Godric. Eric poured his heart out and then offered to die with his maker if he refused to live. In every scene of them together, Eric is respectful, attentive, adoring even. But Godric never touches him, never shows any sign of affection. Fine in all the public scenes, but on the roof, the very first time Godric touches Eric is at end just before he sends him away. And still no words of love or encouragement. He doesn’t give Eric any reason to continue living. That line ‘there are centuries of love and faith between us’ just seemed far too stilted and formal for the moment. I don’t know what he should have said – I’m not a writer and everything I can think of does sound corny and saccharine. But I wanted him to let Eric know that he did return his love, that he was proud of him, that he wasn’t sorry for making him, anything…
August 19th, 2009 at 9:51 PM
We know it is true because he refused to let Eric die with him. How ironic is that? Just seconds after telling Eric that keeping him alive by force would be cruel, Godric orders Eric to live. Then, with Eric gone, he asks Sookie to care for Eric. That really melted my heart. I know that logically, it makes sense that he didn’t need to say anything to Eric but I really wanted him to. I really wanted him to say something to ease Eric’s pain and get him to accept Godric’s death. As it was, it was, the story just seemed incomplete to me.
August 19th, 2009 at 10:06 PM
The love triangle, as a lot of the show itself, happens very differently in the novels. That said….it seems they wanted the triangle, without the mechanism that truly caused it in the books.
In the books, Eric loses his memory…completely….thanks to Maryanne…and Sookie takes care of him…in many many ways…..prompting him to promise his love to her for all of eternity. Bill, at the time….is shacking up with Lorena, unbeknown to Sookie. This all ends up playing out in the inevitable explosion, which took place in the hotel in the books. I won't give anything away, but suffice to say these guys aren't the only Supes in town
All in all, True Blood is stretching and molding and playing with the lines, but it's all good, extremely well done and with just enuf difference that, although I devoured Charlain Harris' novels, I am often surprised by the show! Kudos! A true Vampiric Tour de Force!
August 19th, 2009 at 10:07 PM
I agree – t's amazing what she has been able to create with very little to do. I am really impressed with this actress! I too heart Lafayette.
Roth
August 19th, 2009 at 10:14 PM
I think that the whole Sookie/Eric blood bond thing was very contrived, even in the books. Charlayne has some holes in her plots when it comes to creating a consistent mythology in her little world. Wouldn't it occur to Sookie that if a mouthful of Eric's blood would turn her into his devoted sex slave that perhaps her whole romance with Bill was the result of the gallons of his blood that she slurped up in season 1? It all just seems too convenient. I really hope that the writers don't sideline Bill the way the author of the books did. He was always one of the most intriguing characters to me.
I will agree though, the scene with Eric was hot.
August 19th, 2009 at 10:56 PM
Oh dear, I was SO disappointed with the "sex" scene. We had such high hopes and then this? You call it feminine geared soft-core, I call it a 12-year-old-Twilight-fan's-dream-come-true. I mean seriously… Eric sweetly caressing, kissing, sweet talking her, without so much as even the shadow of a fang? This is bad-ass 1000 year old Eric we're talking about, whose attraction can't be separated from his dangerousness; don't you think that even in Sookie's imagination, he would be wild and dirty? Isn't this part of the attraction, that he is ruthless Bill where Bill is main stream? The scenes with Bill and Sookie last season were incomparably hotter. I can only hope that this develops.
In the same context I really appreciate your thoughts on the path towards goodiness they seem to have chosen for most of the main characters, a danger many great shows have succumbed to and lost. At this moment Eric is probably the most layered and interesting character; I'm glad that in the last episode we got to see both his cunning and his vulnerable side and with the latter I of course refer to the superbly scripted and acted scene on the roof. Now I'm very afraid that next season's Eric will be this season's Bill: a vanilla coloured shadow of himself. It's too high a price to pay for Sookie's attention, whose character development (or poor acting) lets me more and more wonder with Rev. Newlin and Lorena, as to what "these people see in (her)" and why all the fuss.
Despite all my complaining still a fantastic show and full of great surprises!
August 19th, 2009 at 11:39 PM
She was on One Life To Live too in an unforgettable storyline and dying scene.
Go Jessica Tuck!
August 19th, 2009 at 11:40 PM
Mary Anne didn't take Eric's memory away, Hallow did. I just wish that they would put in the Orgy Shack scene before the Mary Anne/Tara/Eggs story ends! I really want to see Eric in his orgy get up and here him say, "Sookie, yield to me!".
August 19th, 2009 at 11:42 PM
Thanks Elizabeth! And I too was truly impressed with Allen Hyde's performance and how connected I felt to this character after such a short period of time. I wanted more of him, more of his relationship with Eric for sure, but I also appreciate that the show LEFT me wanting more on this one. It's a powerful choice to take someone from us who we've become connected to. I also look forward to seeing how this loss will affect Eric, where it will take him. I agree that both Aleksander Skarsguard and Anna Paquin were at their best in this scene. I was really shocked by how moved I actually was. Even more impressive given that they had but minutes to shoot the scene! I wish he had given Eric some comfort as well, but I also like that Eric will have to grapple with his own existence – without a road map – and forge his own path. I love that after all those years of life – he can still be challenged to so so. Ever growing and changing.
August 19th, 2009 at 11:42 PM
I also really agree that Bill really could have found a better moment to vent his spleen as it were! My friend and I were laughing about that – seemed a little childish and oblivious on his part – but I can understand why the writers choose that moment – gave Eric's "Get out of the way" a double meaning. And yes – that man must have been caved from marble haha. Not that there is a lack of great beauty in general on that show
Thanks so much for commenting! I look forward to hearing what you think next week!
Roth
August 19th, 2009 at 11:51 PM
Hi Landfill!
Yes, the love triangle and Sookies relationship with Eric is handled slightly differently in the book. Won't spoil anything – but I felt disappointed that they painted it as an "against her will" kind of thing. I would rather a more organic friendship and attraction develop – perhaps they still will head in that direction to some degree
We can hope! I really liked seeing Lafayette back to himself as well! I am not sure how Jessica and Hoyt will play into the main storyline…perhaps it will remain a subplot for us to enjoy for a time? Or perhaps they have some way to collide the stories in mind…we shall wee!
The acting was great in this ep – especially at the end! I also like the deserted town shots at the end – yes like a 70's horror a bit – creepy
All The Best!
Roth
Roth
August 19th, 2009 at 11:56 PM
Hi Christine! Thanks for posting! Yes it does happen quite differently in the book. It's true and I defiantly prefer some aspects of that. For sure, there are other elements that I LOVE in the show version of the characters – some aspects of Eric – Lafayette and defiantly Hoyt and Jason. Perhaps they will bring in some more of those elemts that we love so much from the books
in episodes and seasons to come 
Thanks again! I hope to hear more of what you think next week!
Roth
August 20th, 2009 at 12:05 AM
Haha fair enough! Well I admit the parts I loved best in the scene is when he grabs her and pulls her back down to the bed – yum. Your right – there could have been more sexual intensity for sure – but I am not sure if people are ready to see that from them…Some people had some trouble with just this bit of very gentle loving from them. But I agree, the hotter, the more intense – the better! But the way the characters have been set up – there may need to be some working up to that point, Plus this wasn't their real sex.
Ohhhh GOD please tell me they are not gonna vanilla ERIC – nooooooo!!!!
He is the most layered at this point! He and Lafayette – My hope is that the opposite happens – and that ALL the characters are given moe dimension! I think perhaps the creators have seen that backing down from that is not satisfying the fan base, and that they need not fear characters that are morally, sexually and psychologically complex – in fact – those are the characters we love.
Thanks so much for posting – really liked your thoughts!
Roth
August 20th, 2009 at 12:10 AM
Hi Amy! Thanks for commenting! You know I really agree with you and it was definitely something that bothered me about this episode. I was like, ok well, HELLO!!! If two drops of blood are making you suddenly attracted to Eric – Why are you not questioning your entire relationship with Bill?! She has had far more of his blood. I agree and wish they had not used this device. It dis empowers her as a character. Give her her free will, give her her choice, and let the characters relationships develop as they will, Thank you for commenting! Hope to hear more from you in the future!
Looking forward to this weeks ep!
Roth
August 20th, 2009 at 12:12 AM
Haha! That would be nice!
Roth
August 20th, 2009 at 1:25 AM
Hahaha! Loved your response. Also re-watched the scene and was able attain minor arousal over hair grabbing and arm muscle action
) Liked how he ignored her quests for Bill. He just _must_ be dominant. Hell, Edward Cullen is way more dangerous than Eric.
On character development I've decided that worry is silly and will cultivate a positive attitude from now on. Here's my new take on things: Bill's coming off more and more selfish as in he cares about nothing and no one besides Sookie and himself (He really would have killed everyone in the church, he didn't give a sh** about Godric, …) I try to tell myself that this is not completely unintentional on the writers'/directors' side. So maybe he'll continue his character development the negative way and will be the immature one with the good intentions. And Eric can continue to surprise us with his many different sides. Yayyyyy!
I agree with you on Lafayette, he's amazing! I so hope he will get more room next season. Loved how he kicked Eggs's boring ass, loved it!
I also want to see more Pam, I think she's super fun and potentially interesting. How will Eric's involvement with Sookie affect Pam's relationship with him… God, I'm taking this show way too serious!
Good talking to you!
Katharina
August 20th, 2009 at 2:23 AM
I just finished watching this episode fro the 4th time, and now finished watching this review. All things considered, I really have to agree with you views 100%, so I might have very little to add this week. Anyway, here it goes.
It does seem that HBO is not giving the viewers enough credit when it comes to the Bill-Sookie-Eric triangle. Totally agree there. I also wanted to see Bill loose control with the thought of Sookie nearly dying from the bomb. That would've helped enforce his darker nature to the audience, while we're seeing Eric's softer side. A turn of the tables so to speak. Though I do feel that Sookie should've known better than to suck out the silver in the first place. She's smarter than that. However, I loved seeing the look on Eric's face as the deed was done.
lol
As far as the explosion goes, I would've like to see Isabel die while Stan survive. Don't get me wrong- I love Isabel. Though it would've been interesting to see Godric replaced by someone who didn't share his pacifist ways. This is often an unfortuanate outcome of violence when rational minds/voices are lost and are replaced by true monsters. But I suppose it was only fair to see Stan get his come-uppins.
On another note, it was great seeing Jason and Sookie bonding after all of that craziness. My sides were hurting from laughter while they were watching the Newlins spar against Nan. "I hate your hair!!!" LOL XD!!
Dream sequence was awesome, and I agree with you on the "Anything for Sookie" comment. The Lorena appearance was a great way of symbolizing Bill's rather than having him in the dream directly. Well done. I'd like to see more of the battle of wits between Sookie and Eric. Also well done.
Also cool to see Sam turn into a fly and spy on Mary Ann. He seems to be trying to have some upper hand on her as he stays out of her grasp while doing recon.
Loved how Lafayette and Lettie Mae put aside there differences to rescue Tara. And our Hooka has his sass back! Woo-hooo! Notice how he can sense Mary Ann's supernatural nature. Hmmm. A little viking blood does a world of good. Do you think it also protects him from the Maenad's influence? We may soon find out.
Did anyone notice that while Nan Flanagan bertated Godric & Co. she was dressed in black? Such a different demeanor from the rational (white wearing) persona on TV. What a BEE-Yatch. I wonder how legitimate and sincere her pursuit on Vampire/Human equality is. Do you think she has something less noble to gain?
And finally, the scene on the rooftop between Godric, Eric and Sookie. SOOOO good!!! L:-) All three actors did an amazing job. Nathan Barr's music was SO poignant without being over the top. I suppose people's opinion of Eric varies. But now how you feel about him one can't deny that Mr. Skarsgard gave a really good performance. Though one may not feel bad for Eric, it was still jarring to see a 1,000 year old vampire break into tears and express grief. I personally felt uncomfortable and awkward witnessing it. Such a powerful scene that was well executed. Also, Sookie holding Eric's hand before he went inside was a nice touch.
When Godric finally decided to go on his own terms it made me ask myself if I would welcome the sun after 2,000 years.
Loved the dialogue between him and Sookie in that scene.
"A human with me at the end with human tears. After 2,000 years I can still be surprised. In this I see God."
To me, Godric is the most human character this season.
August 20th, 2009 at 2:26 AM
Yes, Katharina. Our Hooka is back!
I also want to see how Pam reacts to Eric and Sookie. Pam is such a spoiled child who is about to have her Daddy taken away by the "new girlfriend". LOL
August 20th, 2009 at 3:49 AM
I wanted to elaborate on the acting. Alexander Skarsgard was phenomenal in the last episode. The point when he broke down in tears begging Godric not to go was amazing. I thought if there were awards to be given he'd have one. I just thought it was great because Eric is portrayed as heartless without a trace of human left in him. Seeing something like that doesn't happen every episode and I bet we won't see him so vulnerable for awhile.
Anyway, great review once again. I'm looking forward to next week's review.
August 20th, 2009 at 4:27 AM
I loved this episode i enjoyed seeing Eric and Sookie together they truly do have chemistry going on. I also loved the end with Godric and Eric that made me cry i have never seem Eric feel before it surprised me i also the loved Godric and Sookie scene It was so moving i was hoping that he would decide not to die he was one of my favorite Characters and i wanted to see more of him. this episode was sweetness!
August 20th, 2009 at 5:20 AM
Goos talking to you too! And I know what you mean
I also agree with what you say about the characters I like Pam a lot as well, will be cool to see more from her. I think and hope the sexual intensity will heat up – has too
K – I really like what you say! Hope to hear more from you on the upcoming eps!
Roth
August 20th, 2009 at 5:22 AM
Thanks! And thanks for your comments! All good points – you know you bring up something interesting – if the blood causes sexual arousal – why isn't Lafayette having sex dreams about Eric
!?
Thanks Again!
Roth
August 20th, 2009 at 5:25 AM
Thanks Francesca! And thanks for commenting! I agree, that scene was really moving. It was sad to see him go, but also good of the show to do it! Thanks for watching and for commenting!
Roth
August 20th, 2009 at 8:33 AM
intensedebate needs a way of giving thumbs up to host wardrobe.
August 20th, 2009 at 4:43 AM
Why didn’t I hear about your reviews anytime earlier?
I love the points you raised about the lack of complexity in the characters. It definitely isn’t “popcorn for ’smart’ people”, if they are of the opinion that the audience shouldn’t engage their brain cells. It is television after all, and a good source of if you only look at it that way.
I’m having such difficulty connecting with most characters. I have to point out Jessica, Hoyt and Maryann who make me enjoy enjoy the True Blood hour.
August 20th, 2009 at 12:07 PM
It was really uncomfortable and awkward for me to watch the scene with Eric breaking down emotionally. Somehow when you acknowledge in your mind that a character is bad ass, snarky and brooding, you really don't expect him to blubber. I thought the director would have encouraged his unwillingly plunge into emotion with far more grace and dignity. I would have been satisfied with barely controlled anguish wrapped in a helplessly angry exterior. When a Viking can't get his way, he plunders the village, he doesn't sit at the gates and cry. Totally ruined the image of Eric in my mind, and I haven't even read the books. Bleh.
Also, I was disappointed by Sookie's reaction to Bill in "Time Bomb" from the very start. She isn't pissed at all that he didn't come immediately to her rescue when she was trapped with the FOTS. That would have been an opportunity to begin the rift between them. Coming forward to "I Will Rise Up," this would be the second time Eric would have 'saved her life', by now they could have allowed Sookie to warm up to him a little bit. At least some genuine gratitude. But no… as soon as the dust clears, not even a thank you, she shoves him off like, dude you're heavy GTFO. No gratitude either when she realizes he's hurt from literally throwing himself in the path of bullets to save her, just "heal yourself already, OMG!" and disgust. Boo.
As for the writers, I'm also disappointed with how they made the blood exchange the only reason Sookie now feels drawn to Eric. There was so much juicy build up between the two characters (Eric and Sookie) for example, back in Fangtasia when they are negotiating the terms of her going to Dallas, you really start to see the chemistry develop within the sharp by-play of words, and those long looks of silence between them. It was great, and also in direct contrast with how Sookie and Bill's relationship began. I would have really liked to see that chemistry continue, but it doesn't, she goes from intrigued to disgusted before you can say 'bomb.'
Other than those two things, the episode was alright.
August 20th, 2009 at 3:36 PM
Great review! A lot of good points here. I agree that the show is more enjoyable when the writers allow the characters more complexity and don't back down. Yes, it was great to see Vampire Bill go after the FOTS guys, but in the end, he seemed to lose interest. It became a midnight snack instead of a throwdown. I expected something more along the lines of Eric ripping apart the redneck in the Fangtasia basement. THAT is an angry vampire!
I was definitely not disappointed in the bed scene with Sookie and Eric but agree with one of the above posters that it was a little tame in the tooth department. But hey, it's Sookie's fantasy. And as a personal observation, I do think the 'magic blood' probably awakened an attraction that Sookie already had for Eric, but now she is going to fight even harder against it. Let's not forget that Sookie is a survivor of childhood molestation by a family member. Trust is key for her yielding to a man, and Eric has just blown it with his mischievous trick ( a mistake that Eric in the books keeps making too, IMO). Then again, drawing out the sexual tension between these two is a good thing for the longevity of the show, right? Like you, I am looking forward to seeing Eric bring out the humor in Sookie, and Sookie bring out the emotional depth of Eric.
Really fun review, Roth! I'll be coming back to see what you have to say about the last few episodes.
August 20th, 2009 at 3:56 PM
Spot on for this episode. I loved this episode – I'd rate it a 10 (except for the cheesy visual effects in the Godric meeting the sun scene).
Other quick thoughts. The book Sookie would have known there was a bomb before the Nukinator opened his jacket. She should have read his thoughts.
In the book, Sookie plays a more extensive role in finding the bad guys by reading their minds and their memories. In the series, her role is quite small, and so far not terribly impressive – there is no reason yet for the vampires to be impressed by her abilities. It's a bit uncomfortable for her to be involved in the vampire meetings at this point. So, for the series, her only reason for being at the FOTS was that Godric was trying to commit suicide and didn't bother to tell the vampires not to look for him? Seems like a waste of her talents.
That aside, isn't it great to see movie-quality acting in a tv series?? Everyone of these actors is exceptional. And, like you, I think the Maxine-Hoyt scene with the cheese/potato chip sandwich was OUTSTANDING.
August 20th, 2009 at 4:35 PM
sookies dream with eric is what she wants to hear… its her dream so she wanted to hear eric say those things… not meaning eric would actually say that.
August 21st, 2009 at 12:30 AM
This entire season has been building a certain intensity not seen in other shows. Alan Ball & Co. seem to have found the secret formula for instigating hair-pulling, nail-biting excitement upon their audience. Season one rubbed me the wrong way – at least for the first few episodes. The idea of throwing together all these different mythologies and hitting the "blend" button was too much at once for a superfocused mind like mine.. but I got used to it. Now, season 2 has me by the throat, unsparingly.
I have always loved Vampires.. As a child, I chose to be a Vampire at least 8 or 9 times for Halloween.. haha Well, I can say that I am satisfied with the portrayal of Vampires in TB. My original love(s) were the characters from Anne Rice's Vampire Chronicles. The movie "Interview with the Vampire" moved me beyond words, in a way that has only been reproduced once more – during the scene in "I Will Rise Up" with Godric, Eric, and Sookie on the roof.
There is absolutely nothing wrong/deranged about Eric falling into grief at his master's decision to die. Can you imagine? Wow. This person who taught me about life for CENTURIES! For a thousand years! Has decided he wants to go ahead and take his exit from Life eternal – without you. I would cry just as hard.. I would beg just as much for his life, were I him. For some reason, I easily fell right into his mindset while watching..I felt the horrible emptiness at losing a part of him.. Social personality has no bearing on the real inner core of a person (or vampire).
I think Alex did an A+ job. Godric mentioned "I don't even think like a Vampire anymore". I'm sure he didn't mean he thought like a human. He was thinking like some kind of Demi-God – one who saw his power and wanted to use it to perpetuate life around him, not destroy it. He was over 2,000 years old.. older than the memory of Jesus Christ.. So – his detachment from Eric's pain was understandable – he did not understand it. His mode became self-loathing for what he was, what he had been, what he had done all those years. He moved onto a higher level, and that is amazing. Very well acted by Allan Hyde. He had the weary, love-and-hate-worn visage going quite well.
I love this show more every episode. I think I will actually get withdrawals once it ends.
August 21st, 2009 at 3:31 AM
It occurred to me that since HBO's approach with Eric has been to paint him as very bad early on (torture scene) and then becoming more human during season 2, that HBO could be taking a good Bill approach and make him look more like and A-hole. That would be a satisfying risk if HBO walks that fine line of sometimes alienating Bill's fans in order to make him more complex so we are left to grapple with ourselves. Obviously, that's the direction they may take with Sookie's character (hints that she has makings of a vampiress). I am curious to see what Eric-Sookie's Season 3 relationship will look like with both witnessing Godric's death affecting their relationship. That dynamic is not in the books at all, so I'm only waiting to see what that adds.
August 21st, 2009 at 4:51 AM
I agreed with much of your comments. I would also like to add that this episode has restored some of my faith in HBO's writing. I can now see the direction they are taking with Sookie and Eric, and where it might go into Season 3 and 4, and see how it adheres to the spirit of the books and adds. I was originally not happy with painting Eric as a bad guy, and I could not see where the entry for a real love might be. I was also disappointed with a lack of humor from Sookie, and a lack of spine or development. Why would Eric bother liking Sookie's character?
August 21st, 2009 at 4:51 AM
However, in this episode Sookie's purity of heart comes out in her defense of Godric to Nan, in being there for his death. You remember why Bill fell in love with her, when she reminds him, what if that was you in 1800 years. At the same time, you're reminded of how Sookie may be changing herself, that she recognizes in her own dreams how she has a bloodthirstiness within herself, a lust for Eric, and a fear that she may really be losing interest in Bill. Also little hints like, Eric did this to Sookie to show his superiority to Bill still reminds us that this is still a playground bully game to him. But with the rooftop scene, it opens up the possibility of two "survivors" bonding through a highly emotional experience. This arc makes the Eric-Sookie relationship more interesting and deep. Very different from the flirty, joie de vivre, mutual understanding of each other from the books. I'm looking forward to how Eric's grief changes him in Season 3, as Sookie and Eric are thrown together more often and must learn to trust each other.
August 21st, 2009 at 9:42 PM
Thanks for commenting Jdgon!
I can certainly understand how you feel. I too was disappointed by the blood exchange being the reason for the attraction – it really doesn't work with the wold they have created. Then Lafayette would be dreaming of Eric and Sookie would need to question her relationship with Bill.
I get where you are coming from, hopefully things will go in a way that we can all enjoy in the final three episodes! Thanks again for posting and hope to hear more from you in the coming weeks!
All The Best!
Roth
August 21st, 2009 at 9:47 PM
Thanks Randy!
Thanks for commenting. Yes, I have hopes that they will bring some more depth to thee characters in the coming season. Really good to hear your thoughts – hope to hear more from you in the coming weeks!
Many Thanks!
Roth
August 22nd, 2009 at 12:09 PM
I know, it's only that I was hoping for Sookie to have a more interesting dream … I find she's getting more obnoxious by the minute and she sure requires a lot of saving. To me it was her chance to redeem herself and she pretty much blew it. It's just rather unbelievable that she required the help of blood to dream of him at all.
August 22nd, 2009 at 12:13 PM
Why would he indeed? I laughed so hard when Rev. Newlin said "Honestly, what do these people see in you?" as those are my exact thoughts at this moment. The only fun we had with her lately was the fight with Lorena.
August 23rd, 2009 at 12:52 AM
Thanks! I agree that we need to see vamps acting like vamps – it's ok that we get lulled into forgetting sometimes only to be reminded of dangerous they are – that is the journey that Sookie is on as well.
! Thanks so much for your comments – really enjoyed reading them! Looking forward to hearing what you thin of this weeks ep!
Haha – the love scene was tame – you're right. You're also right that it was also only her dream – so we can have high hopes on what the real thing will look like
All The Best!
Roth
August 23rd, 2009 at 12:55 AM
Hi Michelle – Thanks for posting!
True that was what she wanted to see and hear – I liked the scene and also hope that things will heat up even further.
Thanks again for posting!
All The Best!
Roth
August 23rd, 2009 at 1:04 AM
Thanks Sheryl! And I would really agree on the CJ – I wrote it off as budgetary restrictions
I also would like to see more of the Sookie from the book – the strength, the talent, the practicality and yes, oh yes – the humor
!
I also agree that these actors are exceptional! And can not wait to see more of Hoyt and his mom
!
Thanks so much for posting! Looking forward to hearing more from you!
All The Best!
Roth
August 23rd, 2009 at 1:09 AM
Thanks Robert!
I really enjoyed reading your comments! I also have always been drawn to the mythological Vampire and Vampire lore – loved the Anne Rice novels as well. I also really agree with your assessment of this episode and what was happening with the characters.
I hope to hear more of your thoughts next week!
Thanks so much for posting!
All The Best!
Roth
August 23rd, 2009 at 1:14 AM
Thank you h2onymph1 ! I am a water girl myself
!
Yes, I think it will be interesting to see where this new development will take them. And is a deviation from the book that I enjoy. Though I must admit that I would really like to see some more of their humor – especially hers. It is one of the things that I so enjoy about the character. Thank you again for posting! I really hope to hear what you think of this weeks ep.
Many Thanks!
Roth
August 31st, 2009 at 1:59 AM
I think the dream with Eric was to highlight the difference between Eric and Bill. In the first season Sookie has a dream about Bill and it was all fangs and he was kinda forceful and "vampy" and then in contrast Eric's dream was the opposite. What does that mean? I think it shows how well Sookie and Eric are made to be together.