1) Favorite Episode?
The finale. I liked that it was it’s own little story, and for the most part, pretty light. Sometimes the writers are so wrapped up with the Big Bad and crazier storylines they sacrifice some of the lighter moments that really are needed to create a good balance. I think they did a good job with Emma and showing her finally open up and accept her family & realize that ‘home’ is where your family is. There’s only so much you can do with each character when the cast is so large and premise so broad, but I think they achieved what they were trying to do when it came to Emma’s character development. I know a lot of people didn’t like that it was pretty much Snow Falls but that’s actually what I loved about it – I loved rewatching an episode with Emma, I thought that was a lot of fun.
2) Least Favorite Episode?
Quiet Minds. Neal’s death was completely unnecessary – a ‘bolder’ move would’ve been to continue his father/son journey with Rumple and see them try to work out their problems as adults. Of course that’s touchy-feely stuff and we know that’s A&E’s weakness. How would it compare to Emma & the Charmings? What would be similar/different? And if they really wanted to tell the story they crammed into a couple of episodes, they really could’ve/should’ve devoted an entire 1/2 season to it at the very least.
3) What did you think of Zelena as a character/villain?
I’m on the fence with her. She snarled a lot – what was that? And I was totally unimpressed with her motivation – more daddy issues? Really, guys? And it just doesn’t make sense that she would go to Rumple instead of Regina — Rumple essentially dismissing her didn’t make sense either – why not try to reunite the sisters, who you already have a lot of control over – think of the potential amount of magic and power you have there. I don’t think the Dark One would’ve let that opportunity slip out of his grip.
I think all villains are going to pale in comparison to our 2 originals – you can’t beat the Dark One and the Evil Queen; and Robert Carlyle and Lana Parilla continuously blow me away with their ability to show those characters teetering on that edge of good and bad.
4) Favorite moment?
So many!! The ball scene was a lot of fun. I know many didn’t like Rumbelle’s wedding interrupted but I really liked how their words applied to both Rumple & Belle, but also to the other couples on the show, and was an overall comment on what ‘true love’ is. I loved Neal and Emma commiserating over their failed relationships – that was an excellent moment. I loved the ‘you gave up your ship for me’ scene. NYCS – “Why are you wearing that?” – “Why are you wearing THAT?” Henry’s going to be able to out-sass the lot of them soon.
5) Overall rating for the season?
A-
I’m still PO’d about the ridiculousness of the Rumple/Belle/Neal/Henry potentional just wasted.