Tag: Zelena

Ranking the top 5 villains from “Once Upon a Time”

Happy Saturday TV Fans!  For today, I started to really think about all of the heroes and villains on Once Upon a Time.  One of the reasons why I truly love this show is because it redefines these roles from traditional fairy-tales.  Heroes we root for are far from perfect and villains transform into unlikely heroes, rewriting their own stories in the process.  Who says that villains can’t achieve a happy ending? 

It’s never too late to change and embrace the goodness within that has been stifled by past actions and circumstances.  While some villains are never able to redeem themselves, others have surpassed our expectations, sacrificing everything for the greater good.  Over the seven seasons of OUAT, we have witnessed some of our favorite heroes fall from grace and some of the most notorious villains accept their true destiny, saving the day and reminding us that we all have the potential to do the right thing.

Even though some of their roles have been redefined, one cannot forget how truly “wicked” they once were, proving to be formidable foes who threaten to extinguish all of the good in Storybrooke and other realms.

Whether they possess dark magic, a knack for manipulation, or an impressive evil cackle, these villains have paved their way into my top 5, refusing to make it easy for the good guys.  After all, where is the fun in that?  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the series yet. My top 5 villains from Once Upon a Time are:

5

Captain Hook

While most of us will think of Captain Hook as a hero, we can’t forget how he started out on the show.  Captain Hook was a villain who was purely out for revenge.  The “crocodile” is none other than Rumplestiltskin and is responsible for cutting off Captain’s Hook hand and for killing his love, Milah.  Milah was married to Rumplestiltskin, but we learn that she and Captain Hook were lovers, which only enraged Rumplestiltskin even further.  Captain Hook started off as a pirate looking for adventure.  He may have had selfish tendencies, but he didn’t truly become a villain until he became obsessed with his quest for vengeance.

Captain Hook teams up with Cora, but soon learns that there is more to life than revenge.  While it’s difficult for Hook to let go of this, his growing feelings for Emma show him that perhaps he can go down a different path…or sail down a different coast.  Captain Hook is redeemed by his selfless and pure love for Emma.  He becomes a hero one can be proud of and sheds his treachery in the process.

4

Zelena

Otherwise known as “The Wicked Witch of the West,” we learn that Zelena is Regina’s half-sister.  Zelena was abandoned when she was a child and never really found anyone who could truly accept her.  Rumplestiltskin taught her how to channel her rage and magic, which turned her into a powerful witch.

Zelena’s wickedness comes from her jealousy.  When she goes to see the wizard, she sees Rumple stating that Regina is his best student and her jealousy escalates so much that it turns her skin green with envy.  Zelena is a primary villain for most of the show, but she eventually forms a sisterly bond with Regina and learns what love is.

Even though Zelena is able to redeem herself, her side comments and puns still have a “wicked” quality that make fans adore her even more.  Zelena may be fighting on the side of good now, but that doesn’t mean she needs to suppress her opinions and sense of humor in the process.

3

The Evil Queen

After watching the entire series, it’s difficult to lump Regina Mills with the Evil Queen, especially since her evil half gets separated from her later on.  However, everyone has a past and Regina definitely has done her fair share of evil.  The Evil Queen focused most of her revenge on Snow White and made it a priority to become the most powerful of all.  She is known for ripping out the hearts of her enemies to control them, proving to be ruthless and coldblooded.

In Storybrooke, Regina is the mayor and is not afraid to showcase her “power” for all to see.  However, Regina’s love for her adopted son, Henry, teaches her that unconditional love is possible.  While her romantic love interest, Robin is killed, Regina is still able to hold on to goodness because of her family.

At the end of the series, “The Evil Queen” has transformed into the “The Good Queen,” and is actually elected by everyone in Storybrooke to lead them.  This is a pivotal moment for Regina because she spent most of her past forcing others to follow her commands.  However, she is now fully accepted as a hero and is trusted because of her goodness and courage.

2

Dark Emma Swan

Emma Swan is known as “The Savior” and the main protagonist on the show.  Even though she had trouble believing, she always tried to do what was right and when she becomes “Dark Emma Swan,” it was completely shocking.  The twist was a role reversal for our favorite hero, which kept us on the edge of our seats.

Emma’s actions were to protect Regina from darkness, as she consumes the magic of “The Dark One.”  Emma’s hair is now an icy white, as the darkness within her corrupts her, turning her into a fear-provoking villain.  Emma is still conflicted, as she clearly cares about her loved ones, but she recognizes how strong the darkness is.  She plans to sacrifice herself, but Hook intervenes and takes her place to save her. 

Some honorable mentions before revealing my number one pick are:

  • Ingrid, the Snow Queen
  • Peter Pan
  • Black Fairy
  • Mother Gothel
  • Maleficent
  • Cruella De Vil
  • Cora Mills
  • Hades
  • Drizella
  • Doctor Facilier

1

Rumplestiltskin

It should be no surprise that my favorite villain has to be Rumplestiltskin.  Insert his classic creepy laugh here “dearie.”  Rumplestiltskin enjoys making deals and gaining power as a result.  He always has something up his sleeve whether you are aware or not.  If we look at a lot of the other villains mentioned, Rumple has played a role with almost all of them in some form or another.  While he is consumed by the power of “The Dark One,” Mr. Gold is no stranger to concocting his own schemes as well to further his agenda.

What makes him a truly great villain is that he often goes unnoticed.  However, he is the master puppeteer in many instances, which proves how powerful and dangerous he can be.  While it initially seemed like Rumple could never be redeemed, his pure love for Belle changes his tune.  Belle sees the good in him even when others see him as a monster or a “beast.”  While Rumple does disappoint Belle along the way by giving in to the darkness, he desperately tries to be the man she wants him to be.  However, Rumple does not fully redeem himself until the end of the series.  Up until this point, we have seen signs of goodness within him, but he has always been too afraid to fully commit.  Even in his past, he was called a coward and it seems like this has always come back to haunt him.

At the end of the series, Wish Rumple threatens everyone and Rumple finally realizes that he may not be able to be with Belle again after all.  He puts aside the one thing he cares about more than anything in order to help his family and friends.  When he sacrifices himself and gives his heart over to Nook, he has finally embraced the goodness that has been trying to surface for so long.

Rumple’s act is out of pure goodness and friendship and he can now finally earn the happy ending he has been searching for.  In the afterlife, Rumple and Belle are together and will never be apart again.

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to share some of your own thoughts and comments on your favorite villains from Once Upon a Time.  Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

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Ranking the top 5 moments from “Once Upon a Time” season 7 episode 22 Series Finale: “A Second Chance”

After watching ABC’s Once Upon a Time season 7 episode 22 series finale last night, Regina gets it right when she says, “This isn’t an ending.  I hate endings because then your story’s done.”  She reminds us that our stories are far from over and it’s not exactly a new beginning, as Emma suggested, but really more of “a second chance.”  I have to say that this series finale was an emotional roller coaster for me, reminding me why I fell in love with this show in the first place and why it will always remain a favorite for me for years to come.  Please note major spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In last night’s series finale, “Leaving Storybrooke,” Alice and Robin try to find some help for their family and realize how complicated it is to explain time travel.  Meanwhile, Rumple and Nook try to break out of the snow globe and Regina desperately attempts to get through to alter-ego Henry before he does something he can never take back.  My top 5 moments from Once Upon a Time season 7 episode 22 series finale are:

5

“Our story was so short.  Doesn’t make it any less epic.”

Alter-ego Henry has a lot of bottled up anger and plans on taking it out on Regina.  He blames her for all of his problems and thinks that ending her life will bring him some kind of satisfaction.  Regina doesn’t give up and reminds him that in another realm she is his mother.  In a touching moment she says, “You’ve saved me.  Please let me save you now.”  Henry initially turns his mother away, leaving her alone in a prison cell.  While Regina is dreaming, Robin visits her, as he is always still in her heart.  She tells him how much she has missed him and explains she may be joining him.  Regina clearly remembers being a villain and starts to think that maybe this is what she deserves.  However, the goodness in her is articulated by Robin, who tells her that she was able to move her dark actions to the light and that was all because of her.  He tells her that “her life is proof that no one’s path is set,” foreshadowing some of the events to occur later on.  Robin provides Regina with the strength she needs when it seems like the world is against her.  When he tells her how epic their love was, I have to admit that the tears already started coming.  While it seems beyond unfair that these two cannot be together, Robin will always be in Regina’s heart, reminding her that her new path is one of goodness and love.

4

Mad Archer gets their happy ending.

While I was initially hesitant about all of the changes in season 7, Mad Archer always kept me smiling and cheering for them.  Alice and Robin are beyond adorable and their love is pure and innocent.  They have an undeniable friendship and will do anything to protect the other.  In an absolutely swoon-worthy moment, Robin asks Nook for his blessing to marry Alice and he happily agrees.  Nook’s heart is severely weakened from the curse, but Robin reassures him, “no matter what you are walking Alice down that aisle!”  While we don’t get to see the wedding for these two, I am hoping that a spin-off or special may be in their future?  If not, it is definitely something to consider as these two beautiful and courageous women turn browsing a bookstore into an adventure.  Who wouldn’t want to watch these two lovelies take on the world?  Either way, we know that they have earned their happily ever after and they are responsible for saving Nook and the others from the snow globe, proving that they can be quite resourceful and convincing.  Of course they do have an assist from the absolutely fabulous Zelena, who doesn’t turn away from an opportunity to take a Selfie or to help her daughter from the future.  While they may have unintentionally angered Grumpy after destroying his lunch, one can’t help but fall in love with these two, as they will stop at nothing to protect the ones they love.  Their awkwardness makes them that much more adorable, proving that these two are truly meant for one another.  Well deserved Mad Archer!

3

“We heard you needed some help.”

After breaking out of the snow globe, Henry rushes off to save his mother, Regina.  He runs into a little trouble on the way and is saved by his grandparents, Snow White and Prince Charming!  While I was expecting them to turn up sooner or later, I was squealing and cheering for two of my favorite characters.  Snow and Charming bring together a round table to discuss their plan of action and look around them to see friends who used to be enemies, a new generation, and new friends who remind them of old friends, allowing Nook to take his rightful place at the table.  They learn that Wish Rumple’s plan is to use alter-ego Henry’s emotions against him so that he can cast a spell that will trap every single hero in their own portal or prison of loneliness.  He tests the spell out on poor Blue who doesn’t even really get a chance to interrupt, but it’s clear that this fate ends with all of our favorite characters winding up alone.  Snow White explains that they need to remind everyone not to lose hope and that they just have to believe to succeed.  While Snow White is certainly keeping a positive attitude here, Wish Rumple is ready to unleash his spell on every hero who has ever gotten in his way.

2

“A weak coward will not be the Rumplestiltskin the world remembers.”

Rumple refuses to let Wish Rumple win.  As the portals are all opened, Regina finally gets through to alter-ego Henry and ends the initial threat.  However, Wish Rumple is not about to give up that easily.  Our Rumple explains that he has evolved and is ready to do what’s right.  He even calls Wish Rumple “crocodile!”  He knows that he will be giving up his chance to see Belle again, but is finally ready to embrace the goodness that has been trying to surface for so long.  It’s about time.  Rumple makes the ultimate sacrifice and rips out his own heart.  This destroys Wish Rumple and he gives his heart to Nook who is dying after holding on to Alice so she wouldn’t go through the portal.  The curse between Nook and Alice is broken and Nook is healed.  Earlier Rumple revealed to Nook, “you were the closest thing I ever had to a friend,” which is heartwarming enough, but when Rumple sacrifices his own heart to save his dear friend, his goodness has finally shined through.  Rumple is gone but not forgotten and Regina thanks him for saving them and whispers to him that he does deserve his happy ending.  Belle is waiting for Rumple in the afterlife and the reunion between these two is simply beautiful.  They share a kiss and fade away to their next adventure.  Even though Rumple is gone, his story will live on and he is not alone anymore.  Robin’s earlier words to Regina about no one’s path being set come true here, proving that the greatest of all villains can become a hero one can be proud of.

1

“I now crown you The Good Queen.”

After the threat with Wish Rumple is finally over, Regina recognizes that they still need to figure out how to get everyone back to their right time and place.  However, she suddenly has a better idea and realizes that they need to cast one more curse.  Only this time everyone will willingly offer up a small piece of their heart for it to work.  The magic can bring everyone together, allowing all of the realms to exist in Storybrooke.  Regina talks about Storybrooke being a secret place tucked away in a forgotten corner in Maine and that’s what fairy-tales are.  They are secretly tucked away under our bed or on our bookshelf and it’s up to us to dust them off and discover mystery and adventure with each new story.  All of the pages come together to make a true collection and to bring together our favorite characters, opening our eyes to the unimaginable.  They give us something to believe in and everyone believes in Regina right now after she is able to successfully bring them all together.  Regina is the new elected ruler to her surprise and everyone is here to support her.  The Evil Queen has truly become “The Good Queen.”  Emma rushes in fashionably late with Hook and their baby, Hope, bringing cheers to OUAT fans everywhere.  After Regina talks about this being “a second chance” rather than an ending, she brings us back to all of the moments that made us cheer, laugh, and cry.  She says, “I refuse to believe there won’t be more adventures, more love, more family, and yes there will be more loss because that’s just a part of life and in the end we can get past it all with hope.”  While she speaks these words that really resonate with all of us, we flash back to some of those pivotal moments in Once Upon a Time, providing us with the perfect blend of nostalgia and closure. 

The series ends with us leaving Storybrooke and takes a moment to pass by the yellow bug and some of our favorite places in town, but it’s not goodbye.  We can always go back to Storybrooke anytime we want.  Our favorite characters still have untold stories that will continue on as long as we keep believing in them and passing them on to the next generation.  We all need something to believe in and OUAT truly sparked this in all of us, immersing us in a world filled with endless possibilities.  No one’s story is set in stone and we all have the chance to spread goodness to those people we love and to those people who may have some trouble believing.  It’s up to us to never give up and to continue to believe in magic and love, which will keep us strong even when the days don’t shine as brightly.  Thank you Once Upon a Time for giving us fans seven years of magic that will never be forgotten.

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on Once Upon a Time in the comments section below.  Thanks for reading and happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

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Ranking the top 5 moments from “Once Upon a Time” season 7 episode 17: “Chosen”

After watching ABC’s Once Upon a Time season 7 episode 17 last night, Zelena may be known as “wicked,” but it’s clear that all she really ever wanted was to be good.  Even though she has made her fair share of mistakes, she deserves the chance to prove herself and to be loved for who she is.    Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In last night’s episode, “Chosen,” Zelena/Kelly goes to Rumple for help since the “Candy Killer” has targeted her as his next victim.  Meanwhile, Nook/Rogers figures out that Henry never made it to New York, Drew/Naveen gets closer to Sabine/Tiana, and Hansel/Jack/Nick reveals his motives.  My top 5 moments from Once Upon a Time season 7 episode 17 are:

5

“I am tired of playing candy crush with you.”

In this episode, we get to see more of Zelena’s past and learn about her interactions with the witch from “Hansel and Gretel.”  Even though Zelena is known as “wicked,” she begins connecting to Hansel and Gretel’s father who is blind and begins to let her walls down.  Zelena feels that he sees her for who she truly is, which is something she has never experienced before and she wants to help him in return.  Zelena blinds the witch and offers to give her sight to Hansel’s father, but he declines when his children run to him, revealing that Zelena knew they were being held captive.  Hansel’s father is furious that she kept this from him, even though she tries to explain that she was just trying to protect him.  Zelena’s chance of happiness is destroyed here and her anger re-surfaces, burning harsher than the flames she inflicts on Hansel.  It is clear why Hansel holds Zelena responsible for a lot of the misfortune in his life, but it doesn’t seem like this Zelena still exists anymore.  Like Regina, Zelena has found her way to redemption, but it is hard to maintain this when old wounds insist on re-opening.

4

Hansel reveals his motives to Henry.

Henry is still being held captive by Hansel and tries to keep his cool by keeping Hansel talking.  Hansel reveals that Henry gave him a second chance because “Jack” had no past and earned the potential to be a true hero, something that Hansel had never experienced before.  He has absolutely no sympathy for witches, however; revealing that he believes they are all bad and that the arrival of Henry’s family is what set him off on this path of revenge.  Henry is still confused by this, as he doesn’t understand why Hansel is saying that Kelly/Zelena is his aunt, still clinging to the reality he has come to know so well in H Town.  Hansel shows Henry the blood test results proving that he is Lucy’s father, but Henry still tries to come up with a rational explanation here.

3

Rogers/Nook reads between the lines.

Nook/Rogers has his suspicions and approaches Jacinda/Ella and tells her that he found Henry’s car abandoned and that he never made it to New York.  Jacinda reveals her naiveté about the situation and explains that this could not possibly be true since she received text messages from Henry earlier that day.  Nook/Rogers reads between the lines and they figure out that only Hansel/Nick/Jack referred to her as “J.”  Nook/Rogers finds Henry and rescues him.  Good thing Nook/Rogers didn’t need to dust off his emoji decoding skills.

2

“Trust is a powerful thing.”

Drew/Naveen shows up again and it seems like him and Sabine/Tiana are getting closer, as he helps her with her food truck business.  There are definitely sparks flying between these two, but we know that Drew/Naveen has another agenda.  Later on, Dr. Facilier shows up and reminds Drew that he is there to collect a debt.  Drew/Naveen gives him one of Sabine/Tiana’s beignets for some sort of voodoo ritual.  Even though we know that Drew is working for Dr. Facilier, what are their plans for Tiana/Sabine?  We know that Dr. Facilier has several plans all in play at the same time, especially when he visits Hansel later and reveals that he is the one who woke him up and orchestrated everything.  Will this get him one step closer to obtaining the Dark One’s dagger?  Will anyone be able to stop Dr. Facilier before it’s too late?

1

“Must be a bitch trying to keep track of your driver licenses.”

Zelena/Kelly reveals that in this reality, she actually has a good life.  She even explains, “at least Kelly didn’t kill a munchkin,” and you can’t help but feel sympathetic toward her.  Kelly has a simple life here, including the love from a good man and a daughter that she is trying to connect with.  Hansel refuses to let Kelly live her life here and tries to make her suffer by kidnapping her fiancé, Chad.  Kelly/Zelena shows up and reminds Hansel to focus his revenge on her, desperately trying to protect Chad.  After the threat is over, Zelena/Kelly tells Chad about her jaded past, minus the fairy-tale details, and he still accepts her for who she is, which is absolutely heart-warming and beautiful.  It looks like Kelly/Zelena has a chance of true happiness here with the man she loves and her family.  Kelly/Zelena’s redemption is that much clearer in this moment.  While she is far from perfect, her willingness to change and protect those she loves proves that she is far from a villain.  She’s our hero! 

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on Once Upon a Time below.  Happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Once Upon a Time” season 7 episode 16: “Breadcrumbs”

After watching ABC’s Once Upon a Time season 7 episode 16 last night, Henry got it absolutely right when he finally realized that it’s not about having a good story.  Rather, it’s about having a good life and making the most of it by connecting with the people you love and care about.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In last night’s episode, “Breadcrumbs,” Henry is offered a job opportunity in New York, Nook/Rogers helps Tilly secure her own employment, and Zelena/Kelly tries to connect with her daughter.  Meanwhile, Rumple/Weaver seeks out Henry’s help against the “Candy Killer,” which leads to Henry’s own encounter with the killer and Zelena/Kelly gets a gift that is far from sweet.  My top 5 moments from Once Upon a Time season 7 episode 16 are:

5

H Town could lead Henry straight out of town.

Henry’s podcast is a hit with everyone and he feels like he is truly making an impact again.  He gets a surprising phone call about a possible job opportunity in New York, where he would be able to produce podcasts for others.  The only catch is that he would need to leave town and give up his own podcast in the process.  While Henry is excited for the opportunity, he quickly realizes that this means he would have to say goodbye to Jacinda/Ella.  But is he ready to give up on his chance at true love just yet?

4

“You want to break the curse as much as I do.”

Since Regina is out searching for items needed to break the curse, Lucy decides to spend the day with Zelena/Kelly.  Zelena is very blunt with Lucy about the odds of everything working out and apologizes by telling her that it’s been a while since she’s been around kids.  She confides in Lucy that she is having difficulty with her own daughter, Margot/Robin and has been continuing to lie to her.  While it will be no easy task for Zelena/Kelly to tell her daughter the truth, she will have to be able to break down her wall sooner or later, especially now that we know that the killer is after her next.

3

Fake adventure turns into a real adventure.

In this episode, we learn more about Henry’s past and how he ended up proposing to Jacinda/Ella.  Henry is desperate to seek out adventure with a great story behind it so that he can give Jacinda/Ella a ring with true meaning behind it.  Nook offers to help Henry with this and suggests that they go after Davy Jones’s locker.  This appears to be no easy task, however; as the two realize they need to sneak aboard the Jolly Rogers and deal with Blackbeard.  After the star sapphire ring is revealed, Henry tries to fight his way to victory, but quickly realizes that this was all a set-up by Nook to give him the adventure he was looking for.  Henry is frustrated, but the fake adventure quickly becomes all too real when a major storm approaches the ship.  Henry realizes that Davy Jones wants his ring back and tells the crew to sail the ship closest to the eye of the storm so he can return it.  The plan works like a charm and Henry has gotten his big story after all.  Only he finally understands that he doesn’t need it anymore.  He realizes that he doesn’t need a good story, but a good life and proposes to Ella with nothing to offer her but his love and devotion.  Ella happily accepts and it appears that these two are destined for the happy ending they deserve.  Now only if we can get them back to that in present day.

2

Nook/Rogers gets Tilly/Alice a job.

Nook made the right decision by agreeing to let Tilly stay with him, but he wants to help her contribute to society and get her life on the right track as well.  He helps get her a job working on Sabine/Tiana’s food truck and Tilly is beyond nervous since she has never had a real job before.  A few flirtatious remarks are made between Nook and Sabine/Tiana, hinting again at a possible romance brewing between these two.  This is put on hold for now, however; as Tilly gets to work.  After a few failed attempts to make the perfect beignet, Sabine/Tiana decides to give Tilly a chance at sales.  Tilly is determined to prove her worth and is actually quite the sales woman.  She comes up with the great idea to give out free samples and runs into Margot/Robin in the process.  The two share a heart-to-heart conversation and sparks are flying again, as Tilly finally feels like she is connecting to other people again.  Tilly is beyond excited that she is actually getting paid to do something she loves and Nook is extremely proud of her, the way a father is.  Now if only he can remember that he actually is her father.

1

Rumple/Weaver goes to Henry for help.

Henry is surprised when Detective Weaver knocks on his door, as he is getting ready for his trip to New York.  Rumple/Weaver explains that the “Candy Killer” is a fan of his work and they found a copy of Henry’s “Once Upon a Time” book at one of the crime scenes.  Henry at first seems conflicted about helping Detective Weaver, as he is worrying about leaving for his job interview, but begins to have a change of heart when Rumple/Weaver tells him that Henry Mills was his favorite character.  It wasn’t because he merely had hope and belief, but it was because he fought for these things.  Rumple/Weaver tries to spark this in Henry again so that he will choose the right path.  Henry realizes that the killer must be a character in the book too and is trying to re-write it.  They narrow down the search and realize that the killer thinks he is Hansel, proving the fan theories out there to be true that Jack/Nick is Hansel.  He is out for revenge against the coven because he holds them responsible for his sister’s death, but will this plan be put on hold now that Henry is on to him?  Unfortunately for Henry, he lets his guard down with Nick and tells him about what he told Detective Weaver.  Since Henry is now a threat to Hansel’s operation, he holds him captive at his place.  We also learn that Hansel’s next victim will be Zelena/Kelly, as she finds her very own box of chocolates waiting on her doorstep.  We will have to wait until next week to find out why Hansel finds Zelena mostly responsible, but we know that Zelena will not go down without a fight.  Will she be able to stop Hansel?  Will Henry be able to escape?  Something tells me we need Regina to get back to town fast for back-up.  Stay tuned!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on Once Upon a Time below.  Happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Once Upon a Time” season 7 episode 14: “The Girl in the Tower”

After watching ABC’s Once Upon a Time season 7 episode 14 last night, the words of Lewis Carroll seem more than appropriate, reminding us that all the best people are mad and I completely agree.  One can really sympathize with Tilly/Alice who feels invisible in the world around her, desperately trying to find someone to connect to.  Whether it be to Nook or an unconventional silent friend, Tilly/Alice is hanging on by a thread and desperately needs someone to believe in her.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In last night’s episode, “The Girl in the Tower,” we learn how Alice is able to break free from the tower with the help of a giant troll and we see the first time that she meets Robin.  Meanwhile, Rogers/Nook puts everything on the line to help Tilly, Ivy/Drizella takes off to find her sister, Regina and Lucy put “operation hyacinth” into motion, and Zelena tries to find out what her sister is hiding.  My top 5 moments from Once Upon a Time season 7 episode 14 are:

5

Ivy/Drizella goes to find Ana.

While it appears that Ivy/Drizella is finally trying to do the right thing, no one said that this would be an easy task.  Ivy/Drizella is learning that and realizes she needs to go and find her sister, Anastasia on her own and continue to make amends.  She confides to Henry that she wishes she had met him before and maybe she would have made better choices as a result.  While Ivy/Drizella cannot go back and change the path she took, it’s not too late for her to break off into a new one that could lead her to good.  However, after seeing the preview for next week’s episode, it looks like she may not be ready to help Regina, so is this goodness short-lived?

4

“Nobin” and “Tower Girl.”

While we know that there is a romance between Alice and Robin at some point in time, we get a glimpse into their very own “meet cute.”  Robin points an arrow at Alice, who is spying on her father, Nook from afar.  After Robin reveals the reasoning behind Nook’s new nickname, Alice playfully suggests that they call her “Nobin.”  “Yea don’t call me that,” Robin says, clearly not a fan of her new nickname.  In return, she calls Alice “Tower Girl,” and the two head off to find the troll that is destroying villages.  Alice tries to defend the troll and explains that he is her friend, but Robin is determined to prove that she can live up to the legend of her father.

3

“Sometimes you just have to look up and face your problems.”

After getting captured, Robin escapes to go kill the troll and Alice follows quickly behind, proving that she can improvise with a hairpin as well.  Just as Robin is about to take the shot, Alice intervenes to protect her friend.  Robin turns on the men she came there with and explains that she would “rather be a troll lover than fight beside a bully like you.”  Robin makes the right call and chooses friendship over pride.  The famous “yellow bug” car makes a cameo appearance as well, bringing fans back to the days of Emma Swan.  Robin and Alice try and stop the troll and Alice realizes that she created him during her loneliness.  She is able to successfully turn him back into a statue, now understanding what true freedom means.  Robin has now returned to Hyperion Heights in present day and she meets Tilly who is in desperate need of some advice.  Robin tells her that “sometimes you just have to look up and face your problems,” before revealing that she is reading “Alice in Wonderland,” which is her favorite book.  Tilly takes her advice literally and realizes that the troll statue has a camera hidden in his eye, providing her with the alibi she needed to prove her innocence.

2

Rogers/Nook tries to help Tilly/Alice.

After last week’s episode, it seemed like Nook would never be able to see the blaring clue right in front of him that Tilly/Alice is his daughter.  While he still has not realized this, Rogers/Nook finally makes the right decision and tries to help Tilly.  He hides her out at Henry’s apartment and tells her, “I believe you now.”  Even after Tilly discovers that no one in the town remembers her and the pieces of hair show up in her backpack, Rogers/Nook does not abandon her.  He continues to help her and at the end of the episode, he asks Tilly to stay with him, which is beyond heart-warming.

1

Step 1 of “Operation Hyacinth.”

While Lucy doesn’t seem thrilled about the idea of “walky-talkies,” she is ready to go to work and help Regina find out what Doctor Facilier is doing in town.  Initially, Regina keeps this from Zelena, however; and takes Doctor Facilier on a decoy date while Lucy breaks in to see what she can find.  Zelena interrupts the date and asks her sister why she is lying to her.  Regina explains what is going on and tries to warn Lucy who is able to get out in just the nick of time, but not before finding the tarot cards revealing the death card.  Doctor Facilier proves that he is not easily fooled and drops by Regina’s place with Lucy’s hat.  He tells her that he is here for The Dark One’s dagger and shows Regina her own fortune cards, revealing that love is still a possibility for her.  But at what cost?  Regina finally tells Zelena everything, including about her feelings for Doctor Facilier.  When Robin comes in to see her mother, Zelena hates that they have to lie to her and Regina tells her, “welcome to the club sis.”  While Regina was able to get some important information out of Doctor Facilier, is he being completely truthful with her?  Will Regina tell Rumpel what is going on?  Stay tuned to find out!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on Once Upon a Time below.  Happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Once Upon a Time” season 7 episode 11: Love is Stronger than Magic

So I am thrilled that ABC’s Once Upon a Time has finally returned from its long winter hiatus, bringing us new episodes.  While it was recently announced that this will be the final season for OUAT, it really gives the show the opportunity to sum up its new story line.  When fan-favorite characters left the show and we found out about that season 7 would focus on a new story with only some of our favorite characters still sprinkled in to keep us hooked…pun intended, I had some doubts about how much longer the series would last for.  Now that we know the series is ending, however; this could actually be a great thing.  Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely adore this show and will miss it, but I’d rather see it go out strong than continue to grasp at straws and unconvincing story-lines just to be able to produce new episodes.  Either way, I’m looking forward to see how it all ends and I hope the Lost Easter eggs keep coming!  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In last night’s episode, “Secret Garden,” Zelena learns a hard lesson about parenting from Hook, Henry refuses to sit by without trying to help Lucy, and Regina opens her heart to her sister.  Meanwhile, Mother Gothel has her own agenda and Victoria/Lady Tremaine makes the ultimate sacrifice.  My top 5 moments from Once Upon a Time season 7 episode 11 are:

5

Lost Easter Egg:  The Apollo Bar.

So my top 5 moments would not be complete if I didn’t dedicate one to our favorite candy bar, the Apollo Bar.  For those of you who are Lost fans like myself, I am sure you jumped out of your chair with this Easter egg.  While the Apollo Bar has made appearances before on OUAT, I was thrilled that it was actually in a hospital vending machine this time.  In Lost, Jack is seen getting an Apollo Bar from the hospital vending machine and fans swooned over the “vending machine scene” featuring Juliet and Sawyer reuniting in the series finale.  It was great to see our favorite candy bar make another appearance, keeping fans satisfied with a much needed sugar rush.

4

“Test me too.”

After watching the mid-season finale of OUAT, it was clear that Henry was in great pain over Lucy’s condition.  While he hasn’t made the connection yet that he is her real father, he is not about to just sit around and pray that she gets better.  When Lucy’s parents are blood tested, Henry asks the doctor to test him too.  While she explains that the match would be much higher if he was blood related to Lucy, Henry is willing to try anything, even if there is the slightest chance that he could help her.  Little does he know, his test results prove that he is a match to Lucy, bringing to light his relation to her.  When the doctor looks over the results, an unknown threat poisons her and takes the results along with a lock of her hair.  While we don’t know who is behind this just yet, I’m thinking that Rumpel has to be involved somehow.  We’ll have to stay tuned to find out more, however.

3

“We’re going to do it together.”

We’ve seen so many ups and downs for our favorite sisters, Zelena and Regina, but it looks like Regina is ready to put all of their differences aside for good.  When she suggests that they team up to take down Mother Gothel and help Lucy and Henry, Regina suggests that they do it together.  Zelena says “wicked and evil,” but Regina corrects her with “no…sisters.”  These two are a powerful force and now that they have truly embraced their sisterly bond, there will be no stopping them.  Mother Gothel is no match for them, but that doesn’t mean it will be easy to take her down.  When Mother Gothel approaches Zelena, she asks her to bring her the resurrection amulet, but Zelena immediately recognizes that there will be a catch.  Mother Gothel will certainly not go down without a fight, but let’s hope Zelena and Regina’s bond doesn’t shatter like the sign of their bar.  They need to stick together and fight the good fight.

2

“Piss off Nook.”

Zelena finds an unlikely source of help in Hook…or “nook.”  She comically comments on how she forgets that there are two Hooks and gives him her new nickname, meaning “new Hook.”  Zelena is distraught over her daughter, Robin’s decision to go to Mother Gothel to learn about magic, but Hook reminds her not to give up.  He tells her that love is stronger than magic and he is absolutely right.  Even though Zelena initially claims that “I don’t need a parenting lesson from a pirate,” she quickly realizes that her unconditional love for her daughter is the only thing that can save her.  Hook tells Zelena that her love for her daughter makes her “so daring, so brave, so utterly fearless,” and I can’t think of a better description for our former wicked witch.  Zelena is able to save Robin by taking her place as the sacrifice, allowing Robin to truly see that her mother cares for her.  It looks like Zelena has found a calling far greater than ultimate magic and power.  Good thing she had Hook…or Nook along to help her see it.

1

Victoria/Lady Tremaine redeems herself.

While it initially seemed like Victoria/Lady Tremaine was a villain without a soul, we now get to see her walls come down, as she finally does the right thing.  She has a lot to make up for and even tries to come clean to Anastasia with all of her horrible deeds.  The truth hurts, but Victoria knows that she needs to make amends, especially after what she did to Lucy.  She refuses to let Mother Gothel keep her held captive, using her Louis Vuitton shoe to get her out of the well.  Who said that fashion couldn’t be useful?  When the power of the resurrection amulet is unleashed, Victoria quickly learns that the sacrifice is now her other daughter, Ivy/Drizella.  Victoria makes the same decision as Zelena and takes the place of her daughter, sacrificing herself in the process to save her.  This act of kindness and unconditional love is truly touching.  Even though one cannot deny all of the horrible things Victoria has done in the past, her sacrifice shows her daughter that love can conquer evil.  Let’s hope that this is enough to bring Ivy/Drizella to the side of good.  We’re going to need all the help we can get against Mother Gothel.

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on Once Upon a Time below.  Happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Once Upon a Time” season 7 episode 10 winter finale: You just need to believe

After watching ABC’s Once Upon a Time season 7 episode 10 last night, I am wondering if every curse can really be broken.  True love’s kiss or belief in the impossible is not always enough.  Rather, sacrifices need to be made for the greater good.  But can our favorite characters from OUAT make these difficult choices?  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In last night’s episode, we learn about the moments leading up to the curse and how it was cast.  The power of the coven of 8 is introduced and an old friend is back to help.  Meanwhile, Rumpel enlists the help of Anastasia, Robin and Alice are revealed to be in love, and poor Lucy is still in a coma.  My top 5 moments from Once Upon a Time season 7 episode 10 are:

5

Zelena is back.

When Regina took Henry to San Francisco to enlist some help, fans were excited because we knew Zelena would be the one she goes to.  In Zelena’s new life, she is an exercise peddling instructor and even tells her class to fly like monkeys.  Zelena is hesitant about stepping out of her new life.  Regina uses MacCutcheon whiskey to bring back her memories.  Lost fans will be pleased once again with this Easter egg as Charles Widmore’s liquor of choice is getting quite a bit of screen time this season.  When Zelena remembers who she is, she confides to her sister that she is about to get married and enjoys her new life, complicating her choice.  Zelena ultimately decides to help her sister, but it is clear that she will want to return to the simple life she has come to know and love here in San Francisco.

4

Rumpel tries to help Anastasia unleash her magic.

Rumpel is convinced that Anastasia is the guardian and this will ultimately help him achieve his own destiny.  However, he recognizes that Ana is the only one who can save Lucy right now.  He lays out several knives on the table in front of her and explains that “all you have to do is tell me which one of these has magic.”  Lost fans will recall a similar conversation when Richard Alpert goes to visit John Locke as a child and lays out several items on a table and asks “which one of these items belongs to you already?” Whether this was intentional or just familiar, this scene allowed us to see exactly what Ana is capable of.  It is clear that she is overflowing with magic and is unsure how to control it all.  Will her powers be used for good or evil? 

3

Gothel proves to be a worthy foe.

Ana’s childish innocence gets in the way later when Drizella tries to trick her into giving away her magic.  However, Gothel double crosses her and gives Ana all of Drizella’s power, hoping to unleash the full force of the coven of 8.  The symbol of the coven of 8 has been surfacing all over the place, but it is clear that unleashing their dark magic will be a threat to our favorite OUAT characters.  Regina and Zelena are powerful witches, but can they defeat an entire coven?  Who else will be joining?  Once again, Gothel proves to be a worthy opponent and leaves viewers wondering what else she has in store for everyone.

2

Regina is the one who unleashed the curse.

When Regina and the others confront Gothel and Drizella, they prove they are going to fight for what they believe in and keep the curse from happening.  Regina challenges them asking, “You want a witch fight?  Happy to oblige!”  However, Drizella and Gothel anticipate this and capture Henry, poisoning him in the process.  The only cure for him is a land without magic.  To Regina’s horror, she realizes that she is left with the impossible choice of letting her son die or casting the curse herself to save him.  The good in Regina and the unconditional love she has for her son are weaknesses that Drizella and Gothel were counting on.  The other characters completely understand her decision and cling to each other, hoping that they can find each other again once the curse takes place.

1

“Every curse can be broken.  You just need to believe.”

Henry immediately leaves San Francisco when he learns that Lucy is in a coma.  He rushes to Jacinda’s side to comfort her.  When he is left alone with Lucy, he reads to her from his “Once Upon a Time” book and knows exactly which passage to start with.  His love for Lucy is clearly one of a father’s, even though he doesn’t realize it yet.  He will do anything to help her and even tells her that he will believe that he is her father in another world if she will just wake up.  He kisses her on the forehead but true love’s kiss is not enough here.  Lucy’s own beliefs had been shattered previously, preventing this magic from waking her up.  Regina later reveals that if the curse is broken, Henry will die, but if it remains, Lucy will be its victim.  Once again, this leaves Regina with an impossible choice.  How will she be able to choose between her son and her granddaughter?  Is there another way around this?  We will have to wait until new episodes return to find out, but if anyone can unearth a way, it’s Regina.

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on Once Upon a Time below.  Happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Once Upon a Time” season 7 episode 9: Step-mother role reversal

As the snow begins to trickle down here in New York, I am anxious for a relaxing day of TV watching.  How about you?  After watching ABC’s Once Upon a Time season 7 episode 9 last night, I am wondering just how many sleeping curses need to occur before someone finds a way of preventing this from happening in the first place.  Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  In last night’s episode, we learn quite a lot about Lady Tremaine’s back-story, while Regina and Henry are still off in San Francisco.  Jacinda is thrilled to have Lucy back in her life, but lets her emotions get the best of her when she falls onto Nick’s lips.  Meanwhile, Ivy/Drizella continues to try to thwart her mother’s plan, while Rumpel reveals to Hook the reason behind his recent actions.  My top 5 moments from Once Upon a Time season 7 episode 9 are:

5

Lady Tremaine is revealed to be Rapunzel.  After we learned that Alice is Hook’s daughter, I wasn’t sure there would be any more surprises so soon, but Rapunzel’s story has been re-written quite a bit in the process.  While I was very interested to find out more about Lady Tremaine and how she came to be this way, this revelation seemed slightly forced, however.  In the Rapunzel fairy-tale, we don’t know very much about her other than that she was a baby paying for the mistakes of her parents who stole from the witch’s garden.  Her identity is stifled by her circumstances, being trapped in a tower waiting for someone to rescue her.  I did enjoy the twist of Rapunzel taking matters into her own hands to save herself, rather than waiting for a prince to appear to save the day.  I am just not so sure that this connection between Lady Tremaine and Rapunzel is that convincing but I’m willing to keep an open mind.

4

Lady Tremaine makes a deal with Rumpel.  Lady Tremaine lays all of her cards on the table and seeks out assistance from our favorite schemer, Rumpel.  Rumpel doesn’t bother keeping up with appearances here, calling Lady Tremaine out as “Rapunzel” and agreeing to help her with Anastasia because Lady Tremaine has information on the guardian.  We know that Rumpel is focused completely on finding his way back to Belle and the guardian is the key, but at what cost?

3

Hook does some investigating.  Hook is tired of getting the run around and takes matters into his own hands to find out the truth.  He shows off some Nancy Drew-like skills when he pulls the fire alarm so that the locked door will open.  Hook finds files that Rumpel has on everyone, pulling at his curiosity even further.  When he confronts Rumpel to get to the bottom of this, Rumpel reveals that everything he is doing is to try and find his wife.  Hook empathizes with this and puts differences aside to help him find Lucy but to no avail.

2

Step-mother role reversal.  While I was slightly disappointed that Lady Tremaine was Rapunzel, I thought it was very clever to switch up the roles to have Ella’s mother be the other woman stepping into her family’s lives to replace her.  Traditionally, Lady Tremaine has always been very jealous of Cinderella because she had her father’s love and in this version, this jealousy is still very present but stemming from something else.  Rapunzel gives into revenge and temptation and does send Ella’s mother away with black magic, but her husband still cares very much for his wife’s daughter, Ella.  When Ella and Anastasia are playing on the ice, it tragically breaks and her husband can only save one.  To Rapunzel’s horror, he saves Ella, but she is not to give up just yet.  She tricks Gothel and promises Anastasia that she will find a way to be with her again.  While Rapunzel makes it clear how important family is, this idea becomes distorted when she puts her family above the well-being of others and the greater good, refusing to apologize for it.

1

Lady Tremaine destroys Lucy’s innocence to free Anastasia.  Lucy is thrilled to be reunited with her mother and when Lady Tremaine gives her back her fairy-tale book, it appears that she is trying to make amends.  However, she demonstrates her wickedness by showing Lucy the video of Jacinda and Nick kissing, destroying Lucy’s idea of a perfect family with her, Jacinda, and Henry.  Lucy’s belief is shattered at this point, leaving her questioning everything.  When a tear is released, this is the key to waking up Anastasia.  However, once Anastasia wakes up, Lucy immediately falls asleep taking her place.  Hopefully it’s up to Regina, Henry, and Zelena to return and save the day.  But are they are a match for the ruthlessness of Lady Tremaine? 

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on Once Upon a Time below.  Happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

“Once Upon a Time” Ranking the top 5 moments from Season 7 episode 7: Who is in San Francisco?

ABC’s Once upon a Time, season 7 episode 7, is filled with surprises and unexpected twists and turns.  After watching the two hour episode last night, it left me with even more questions.  Please note that spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet.  It looks like Hook may find his happy ending after all with an unexpected bond that not even a poison heart can break.  Speaking of hearts, Regina/Roni may not have left hers in San Francisco, so who is she going after for help?  My top five moments from Once upon a Time, season 7 episode 7 are:

5) Henry & Ella/Jacinda get trapped together in a net.  This scene was pure magic for me and actually showed me the spark between these two which has been blaringly missing from the prior episodes.  It brought me back to when Prince Charming caught Snow White in a net, bringing together these destined soul mates in an adorable meet cute.  It also reminded me of ABC’s Lost, when Jack and Kate get stuck in a net together much like Henry and Ella. It was a nice way for the writers to give fans a sense of nostalgia and ignite a much needed connection between Henry and Ella/Jacinda.

4) Mother Gothel proves she is a villain to watch.  I was excited to see the introduction of Rapunzel into the world of OUAT, only to find out that it was the witch, Gothel in disguise.  She plays on Hook’s weakness who is a fool for love, only to use him to give birth to a magical child with her blood so that she may leave the tower.  When Hook/Detective Rogers frees her as Eloise Gardner, she reveals that Ivy/Drizella and Lady Tremaine may not be the main villains we thought they were.  Gothel is done hiding in the shadows and is about to show the world what she is capable of.

3) Jacinda and Lucy are re-united.  I was so sympathetic with Jacinda when Lucy was taken away from her and she revealed her own insecurities as a mother when she admits that she waived her parental rights and let Lucy go with her grandmother voluntarily.  A new romantic interest is introduced into the mix as well when Lucy’s father, Nick/Jack, comes back into their lives to help with the case.  While Jacinda claims she has no feelings for Nick, it makes us wonder if this is another threat to the bond between her and Henry.  Jacinda does ultimately get Lucy back and Lucy accepts her mother with open arms.

2) Hook’s daughter is revealed to be…Alice!  The introduction of Hook’s child was a surprise for me but I thought it gave him a real chance to be selfless and to raise his baby after she was abandoned by her mother, Gothel.  I thought it was especially touching when he sang her a lullaby, revealing his own need to have some form of connection in the world.  Alice’s story was already very interesting to me, different from the other versions of Alice who were introduced previously on Once Upon a Time.  This gives Alice a new purpose and hope for Hook to find his own happily ever after.

1) Who is in San Francisco? The episode ends with Regina/Roni going off to San Francisco to get some help to take down the villains and wake everyone up.  After Rumpel rejects her proposal to team up and continues on as if he does not remember who he is, Regina/Roni realizes that she will need to recruit help from somewhere else.  So who is in San Francisco?  I am banking on Zelena but we will have to wait and see.

I hope you enjoyed and please feel free to post your comments and theories below.  OUAT may be on a break for the next few weeks, but let’s keep the theories coming!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl