I have very little to complain about for this episode.
Loved (and in no specific order)
1). Scene when August and Mr. Gold talk. I’m was kinda surprised that they would start working together so soon. They both know who they are, and yet they both work towards the same goal. Especially after The Return, I wouldn’ve thought they would both avoid each other like the plague.
2). Loved Regina trying to seduce David. It shows just how sneaky she is, how hateful she is, and yet how lonely she is. She wants to get back at Mary Margaret for the forgiveness that she gave, and yet she is so lonely. The one person that she loves above all else hates her guts. That has to eat at her. And I loved how David pulled back–everyone gives him crap for how he acts, but the guy is cursed to act that way, and yet he is still able to be kind to Regina and pull away from her gently. He tried to be nice about his feelings and hers. Both Lana and Josh did great in those scenes.
3). Speaking of Mary Margaret, she only got one scene in this episode, but she shined in it. The way she talked back to Regina with one comment after the other, and then showing forgiveness towards the woman who basically tried to make her miserable shows just how kind and lovely she is. It also reminded me of the letter she gave to the Huntsman. Ginnifer Goodwin had always been good at showing the spirit of Snow White in the small hints in Mary Margaret.
4). Emma and August in the woods. I know a lot of people also love to rip at Emma for not believing in the curse, but in all honesty, I don’t blame her and I would probably act somewhat similar. And you have to admit, you might, too. I think it also shows that Emma does know (at least partially) that she is responsible for the town. She just does not want it, and that is a fair trait. No one wants that kind of responsibility. And I loved how frustrated August was with her–both Eion and Jennifer were amazing in that scene.
5). Lastly, I loved the scenes with Gepetto and August/Pinnochio. Again, a lot of people seem to be attacking Gepetto for what he did, but I honestly don’t blame him. True, it wasn’t the right thing to do, but he was a father, desperate to save his child. Again, both actors really played up the emotions especially when August and Gepetto meet a second time and the former helps the latter with the clock.
Hated
I don’t really have anything to hate in this episode. I don’t really have any complaints.