Monday night’s episode of Freeform’s Shadowhunters made it clear that this season shows no signs of slowing down. Beautifully written and acted, it was full of intrigue, politics, romantic betrayal, and attempted murder. You can read our full review here, but here are some bite-sized bests from episode 2×14.
1: Best Book to Screen:
The whole f**king episode.
First and foremost, we want to congratulate this episode on being one of the best translations of the original book material to our screen that we’ve seen so far. There were so many amazing details in this episode that book fans were sure to catch and love. The Seelie Court was practically ripped from the pages, from the atmosphere to the Queen and her entourage. It was also great to see smaller tidbits that will undoubtedly play a larger role in the future, like those useful and magical fire messages, as well as Jace’s musical abilities. As much as we love the new and exciting directions the show is taking, nods and homages to The Mortal Instruments series are always a special treat.
2: Best Redemption:
Maryse starts mending fences.
A round of applause for Maryse Lightwood this week! She wasn’t really in the running for Mom of the Year up until now, but she’s definitely coming around. Her scene with Alec was heartwarming both in how far she’s come to express her pride in him and in how supportive Alec is of her and her happiness. He’s right after all; the Lightwood name has survived far more than a bit of marital scandal! Her scene with Isabelle was touching as well, and we were delighted when she reacted in concern for her daughter rather than the anger Isabelle expected in revealing her yin fen addiction. It’s a fabulous start, Maryse! We wish you the best!
3: Best Unexpected BROTP:
Raphael and Meliorn.
We did not see this one coming, but we definitely need more of it. Meliorn has been known to mingle with Shadowhunters before, but vampires? It was certainly a surprise to see how well he and Raphael got along – but it stands to reason they’ve both been around for a while, so their paths must have crossed before. Is this a decades-old friendship or just a new acquaintance? Either way, the sass ran rampant and we loved every second of it (especially Meliorn’s confusion over which pretty blond Shadowhunter was Jace). We hope to see more of these two throwing shade the Shadowhunters’ way in weeks to come.
4: Biggest Nerds:
Mr. Lightwood and Mr. Bane try to keep it professional.
We appreciate the effort, boys. It was adorable – but maybe that’s not quite what our favorite power couple was going for? Alec’s initiative to keep the newly minted Downworlder Cabinet free of nepotism is to be commended, though it might be a little rough when said cabinet is made up of your boyfriend, two of your sister’s exes, and your brother’s crush’s stepdad. Still, the show of professionalism between the new Head of the New York Institute and the High Warlock of Brooklyn was fine indeed. We almost couldn’t see your heart eyes…almost.
5: Popcorn Worthy:
The Seelie Court.
That music, the betrayal, and that epic kiss! This scene had us rewinding a few times just to take it all in. Sure, most of us expected a bit of conniving from the clever Fair Folk – but wow. As much as Clary must have desired that kiss, this moment was all around awful for everyone involved – and poor Simon, making him watch that smooch as well! We only hope that friendships (and relationships) can be salvaged after this. The Queen’s knowing smirk made us wonder: are her motives really to bring Simon into the Downworlder fold? Or was she having a little fun at the expense of some vampiric heartbreak? Only time will tell.
6: Best Reveal:
Sebastian is evil.
Okay, who’s shocked? Is anyone shocked? Perhaps a few of us are if you’re not as suspicious of our newest British mystery man as Alec Lightwood is. Sebastian is a baddie (perhaps quite a big baddie), but there is still so much in store for us to find out. Why was he trying to set Luke up? What does he want with Valentine? Why does he seem to be meddling in everyone’s affairs? And who in the name of the Angel is the poor guy tied up in his closet? This just goes to show you should never let yourself be blinded by charming British accents.
Shadowhunters airs Mondays 8/7c on Freeform and Tuesdays internationally on Netflix.
