Alley Box - Angel || 1x03 || Full Reaction

Hi, the link says it's old or expired, so it doesn't work. Is there a new link? :)

Maria

2021-11-08 19:34:27 +0000 UTC

My take on the ring is the official in Buffyverse reason is that it's way too easy to steal and everyone would be after Angel. He would be protecting the ring all the time rather than everyone else. The producer reason is that the ring is story kryptonite. It's a cool gimmick, but would make writing the show nearly impossible. It would either be boring or way too focused on the ring. I personally thought it would have been cool if he went walk about and hid it somewhere so it could pop up later in some dire time of need. I have a really good example of this being done somewhere else in the Buffyverse, but I don't want to spoil it for those who haven't seen it yet. Those who have seen it will probably know what I'm talking about.

Jordan Haddow

2021-01-30 14:28:21 +0000 UTC

If Angel kept the ring and became invincible I would have stopped watching the show. Joss has a way of making things seem inconsequential in the moment and then making it relevant later. If you don't pay attention then you'll miss stuff later on.

Greg Davis (YT-nobody you need to know)

2021-01-18 06:09:52 +0000 UTC

The reasoning for abandoning the use of the ring was spelled out quite clearly before Angel himself summed it up, during the torture at Marcus' hands. Angel wants redemption, forgiveness, and as Marcus himself said, Angel doesn't want the easy way out. The other reasons (Vampires hunting for the ring, the threat of Angelus having the ring) are certainly there, and don't need to be spelled out for those fans who came over from Buffy. The temptation of substituting the ring for actual redemption was just too strong, and Angel would rather avoid that temptation altogether. In the end, he made the right decision.

Randall Lilly

2021-01-15 03:05:47 +0000 UTC

it gets better :) like the reaction and i understand the pet peeves. :) keep it up

Isac christensen

2021-01-04 12:52:00 +0000 UTC

thank you for no subtitle option, can't say how much they irk me.

EDDS

2021-01-03 17:35:29 +0000 UTC

I'm hard of hearing thank you for the subtitles!!!!!

Diana

2021-01-02 20:50:13 +0000 UTC

(Happy New Year!)

David Neal

2021-01-02 00:20:29 +0000 UTC

Every vampire in the world would come looking for Angel and the ring. That is the best reason for destroying the ring. The second best reason to destroy the ring is for the show not to turn into the VD.

Allan Cornett

2021-01-01 20:22:25 +0000 UTC

I'm still really surprised that no one, especially Angel himself, mentions the most important in-universe reason that Angel shouldn't keep the ring: that if he happens to lose his soul again, Angelus would be the one who was borderline unkillable. And if he can walk in the sun, the chances of him being able to experience a moment of true happiness increases by a not insignificant amount. I'm still incredulous the writers didn't include that, it seems so obvious to me? Anyway, this episode is one of those that makes more sense once you've seen the rest of the series, or at least the rest of the season. They're definitely trying to Do A Thing here narratively.

Bonnie Claire

2021-01-01 16:04:05 +0000 UTC

Two things. 1: When Oz came crashing through with his van and pulled out two weapons on Spike is my second favourite Oz moment of the series. 2: my thought process had always been 'What if angelus comes back and has the ring?' maybe Angel had thought it could be a possibility and didn't want to potentially risk people's lives since Angelus would then be unkillable. Just what I had always thought about anyway

Josie Ball

2021-01-01 15:25:51 +0000 UTC

Lol, I do love a good pun.

Kirby

2021-01-01 13:50:05 +0000 UTC

Sir Deb, I get people who feel that. However, I prefer all seasons of Buffy over any given season of Angel. Overall, it really is the better show. There's a reason it's still remembered and beloved. There's a good reason that it's the most studied TV show of all time.

Kirby

2021-01-01 13:44:02 +0000 UTC

I watched Buffy starting in season 2, then went back and watched season 1. I actually quite enjoyed it and I have affection for season one. I enjoy it a lot more than Angel. With Buffy, I already loved all the characters and I liked seeing the origin of a show I was already devoted to. I don't feel the same way about Angel the series. So I just don't enjoy it the same way I do season 1 of Buffy. I mean, I do love Cordelia, but the rest... I can't add anything further due to spoilers. So, the comparison just doesn't work for me.

Kirby

2021-01-01 13:37:32 +0000 UTC

If Angel can't be killed, there are no .......STAKES

Dusty

2021-01-01 00:20:25 +0000 UTC

It's my understanding that her new setup allows her to screen capture while she's recording. So, the version she's watching is the version we're seeing. Regardless, subtitles are great for HOH or folks like me who get distracted by other sounds in my environment.

Ashley

2020-12-31 22:58:44 +0000 UTC

LMAO

Nebraska

2020-12-31 21:28:27 +0000 UTC

The second half of this episode feels like they'd planned on featuring the ring for several episodes, but they got half way through filming and someone told them that the gem needed to be gone by the end of the episode. I really appreciate the lack of subtitles.

Nebraska

2020-12-31 21:27:15 +0000 UTC

The problem is getting a hold of Juliet Landau to play Drusilla. While I'm sure she enjoys playing the part, it's a little "low rent" for actors of her caliber. It's good for her if she's busy with other work.

Kenny Teeology

2020-12-31 09:06:56 +0000 UTC

If I were back in time while they were writing this episode, and Joss asked my opinion, here's my answer. Angel gives the reasons I stated above and then says, "In the long run I think destroying the gem will save more lives than keeping it and using it."

UTU49

2020-12-31 07:34:44 +0000 UTC

Thanks. Tell Joss that you think that. ;)

UTU49

2020-12-31 07:31:53 +0000 UTC

I like that. That's a nice piece of head canon.

UTU49

2020-12-31 07:21:39 +0000 UTC

I love both shows. I've always had a decisive preference for Buffy. There are, however, several times in the Buffyverse when I'm more interested in the events on Angel than the events on Buffy. Some Buffy fans aren't enthusiastic about Angel. Some Buffy fans like Angel even more than Buffy. Most Buffy fans are somewhere in the middle, like me.

UTU49

2020-12-31 07:19:38 +0000 UTC

Hey! We finally have sound on Macs! No more running it through a converter. Thanks Alley!

Robert Westlund

2020-12-31 04:08:42 +0000 UTC

Don't worry! It gets better! :)

Stephen Mintac

2020-12-31 00:53:47 +0000 UTC

Willow kinda shut Xander down before he could question it "don't make a fuss"... Looking back they probably should have discussed it lol

Bisibia

2020-12-30 23:08:23 +0000 UTC

I disagree with this kirby. The ceilings are both very high, but angel has more duds. I prefer angel season 2 to Buffy season 4 for example.

Bisibia

2020-12-30 23:06:23 +0000 UTC

Yeah I hate the child molester character HATE. Like WHY. And spike is way too one-note here. I said this before but after the stellar pilot, Angel takes a little while to find its footing. There’s some goodness coming up! (Also more badness lol)

Mary Kate

2020-12-30 22:05:52 +0000 UTC

I love that there are jingly bell sounds at the end of the Angel theme! haha

matt bassil

2020-12-30 20:39:37 +0000 UTC

I watched the subtitled version and thoroughly enjoyed myself. If your goal is to be inclusive, I vote do it. The balance of split-second spoilers versus inclusivity, inclusion wins every time. Thanks for these as always!

Joshua Gosdin

2020-12-30 20:30:12 +0000 UTC

I finally figured out what you should do at the end of the Angel opening credits. You should get a black cape, tie it to the chair, and at the end of the song just do one big dramatic swoosh with it as the music begins to fade in time with Angel's dramatic coat lol...

Ash Lee Can

2020-12-30 18:44:28 +0000 UTC

Charisma Carpenter once said that the spike narrating from the rooftop was her favorite scene in all of Angel. Re: subtitles. I prefer without, but not strongly. In general it's no big deal. When other white text is added in editing it becomes a little worse (though still not a huge deal). I find my self either ignoring both and missing the edit text or constantly looking back and being a bit distracted at the subtitles as my mind thinks a bit of edit text may have been added.

Ryan Powers

2020-12-30 18:43:58 +0000 UTC

I agree. I didn't mind watching Alley's reactions to Buffy without subtitles. I have the episodes practically memorized. I've never re-watched Angel with the exception of a handful of episodes. Although, in my case I do have hearing loss and I watch most shows with subtitles.

Kirby

2020-12-30 18:21:26 +0000 UTC

"I agree, but then again why didn't the Scooby gang think of that even before they give the ring to Angel." I'm sure Xander thought of it plenty, but they wouldn't listen to him, anyway. Probably Giles thought of it, too.

Steve Quast

2020-12-30 17:08:35 +0000 UTC

Ok but the version she watches isn’t the version we see on our screen, so how she chooses to edit it doesn’t affect how she is watching it. So I don’t really see how this is even a factor, she can still watch with subtitles regardless.

Lizzy Giov

2020-12-30 16:50:44 +0000 UTC

Haven't watched this reaction yet, but I will say regarding the subtitles topic: I have "normal" hearing, but I still prefer the subtitles! It helps me follow along with the episode while listening to you at the same time, especially on this show. I've seen every episode of Buffy a million times, but watched Angel significantly less. So I am kind of reliving the show through you, since I don't remember a lot of it, and the subtitles help.

OliveJus

2020-12-30 16:17:12 +0000 UTC

This is my least favourite episode of Angel (I'm midway through Season 2) . Just not fun at all. So much icky torture and a lack of the usual witty dialogue that typically makes the bad episodes of Buffy/Angel still enjoyable. It'll pick up I assure you.

matt bassil

2020-12-30 15:44:30 +0000 UTC

Cool! I'm excited. Part of the reason I'm happy Alley decided to watch Angel as well is so I can give it another go. Passion of the Nerd is a fan, so it can't be that bad, right? ;^)

Sika6061

2020-12-30 15:31:46 +0000 UTC

First off, I will say that this episode isn't all that great. But I do feel like you maybe overthinking the ring thing a little bit. It's just a plot device on both shows. Angel would never accept something like that. The whole point of it was just to get Angel to the point where at the end of the episode he kind of restates his mission to the audience. He's a vampire and a creature of the night and he needs to be helping the people of the night. Just like early season 1 of Buffy, Angel as a show is still kind of trying to find itself and it will evolve a lot over time. Season 1 does eventually have some very good episodes but similar to Buffy, there will also be some very bad episodes along the way. Expect it to be kind of bumpy. Just like with early season Buffy though the best parts of this episode and most not great episodes, the main characters have a fun chemistry that keeps it from never being too terrible. I will say this though, I love both shows but genuinely prefer Angel as a show more than Buffy. And that's saying a lot because I didn't really like Angel's character much in the Buffy days, But yeah, season 1 is up and down with some lower lows than this episode unfortunately. But it is great at points too. Remember that Buffy's 3rd episode was Teacher's Pet and after watching that episode you wouldnt have imagined where the show would be and what it's done since then. Just like Angel will evolve a lot from what this episode is

Ray D

2020-12-30 15:21:28 +0000 UTC

Totally. I couldn't really get into Angel until about halfway into season 1, but by the end of season 1 and into season 2, I loved it as much as Buffy. In some ways I even love it more, not that it is superior, but it is able to go into themes not really intended for Buffy. When Cordy hits her groove and is more then just "oh hey, it's Cordy" and more characters come into the show, it VASTLY improves.

Leenis

2020-12-30 14:36:42 +0000 UTC

That's the funny thing. I really liked this episode when it originally aired. I think I was excited to see Spike and Oz on Angel. And the opening with Spike is so great. But the rest of it is just really mediocre TV show.

Kirby

2020-12-30 13:20:24 +0000 UTC

As lame as this episode is, once again, it's just so ridiculously entertaining to watch! The character dynamics are enough to get through any rough patches.

Blain H Granado

2020-12-30 12:39:00 +0000 UTC

An invincible vampire would have gotten old really quickly . I think that storyline only deserved a couple of episodes . Didn't Supernatural do an Amara storyline which lasted a whole season where they clearly painted themselves into a corner with a really cheesy ending . Now that was bad .

L R

2020-12-30 11:22:56 +0000 UTC

I loved this episode back in the day (it was a huge thrill to see Spike and Oz!) but looking at it now it is a bit rougher than I remembered and in some ways I think 'Lonely Hearts' was better. One thing I do really like is how 'street level' the show is, fitting it's noirish detective vibe. The villains in this episode were basically just two vampires (Spike is more dynamic because of his personality in raw power he's not much stronger than a regular vampire 'boss'.) Also an 'Angela's Ashes' shout out! I was in secondary school (ie. high school for non-Irish people) in the late 90s and we did that book in class.

Ross Nolan

2020-12-30 11:01:19 +0000 UTC

Overall, I agree with the show's decision to ditch the ring, but the way they explain why really irks me. It's great as a metaphor for recovery, but pragmatically it doesn't make a lot of sense. I wish they'd given the ring some kind of limitation, like it only holds a certain amount of power so it can only be used sparingly, or now word's got out that Angel has the ring and every vampire in LA is clawing at his door to get it, or SOMETHING. I just need one good practical reason to support the metaphor! But honestly, this whole episode is worth it for me for the scene on the beach, and that look on Angel's face as he processes being out in the sun amongst people for the first time in two and a half centuries, while accepting that it's no longer his world. David Boreanaz always nails those emotional moments.

Jamie Morgan

2020-12-30 10:51:21 +0000 UTC

I think, from the look on Giles' face, he was definitely thinking about it, he even asked 'are you sure?' but since Helpless he's basically backed her totally (particularly wrt trying to appear OK with Angel) so he's going along with it. He should have pointed it out more clearly IMO, but I do think he's super uncomfortable with Angel having the gem.

R J Walker (FumblesMcStupid)

2020-12-30 10:40:00 +0000 UTC

Nah. As you said, it's just a stunt in LA. There's probably bound to be a film crew somewhere! Everyday crazyness!

Inb4close

2020-12-30 10:30:30 +0000 UTC

Who says it didnt made the news? But its still LA, i am petty sure crazy things happen there all the time too, and its not like it was obvious that they where vampires. Could be just crazed assholes.

Leon Hardt

2020-12-30 10:28:35 +0000 UTC

Angelus would've worn it on one of his toes so nobody could ever see it underneath his evil shoes :D

Inb4close

2020-12-30 10:28:02 +0000 UTC

Also I think that things like the pier scene would have worked much better in buffy because in Sunnydale, it's literally a thing that the people of that town see crazy demon/vampire shit all the time because of the hellmouth- they even joke about it during the prom ep when they mention that the death rates of student was the lowest its ever been or whatever. But like, Angel is in LA. One of the largest most populated cities in the US. A stunt like that would've EASILY made the news.

Nicole Iannone

2020-12-30 10:05:57 +0000 UTC

And it is true what some folks here mentioned....being afraid of Angelus getting the ring one day or being constantly hunted by other vampires because of the ring could have been good reasons to destroy it. But those reasons were never mentioned, nor did they establish a storyline for that reasons to play out. So in all it still feels like a cheap cop out with a very heavy buildup, only to emphasize a point that we already knew well...that Angel is on mission of redemption. So I absolutely share your feelings about the episode being anticlimactic...

Felix Dürhammer

2020-12-30 09:46:30 +0000 UTC

I‘m totally with you. I mean of course storywise for the show it absolutely makes sense that he would destroy the ring, and of course it is a symbol of his sacrifice and redemption. But logically it makes no sense at all, I was always shaking my head on that. I mean he alone would decide when he would put the ring on, he doesn’t have to wear it all the time. Not to speak about the people he could save even at night if he was invincible. Of course an invincible Angel would be boring as hell I get it. But still, the logic is very much flawed...

Felix Dürhammer

2020-12-30 09:24:31 +0000 UTC

All of the audio problems are gone aside from the pc noise, that's easily solvable with a mic arm and the mic closer to Alley than the computer, 50/50 in between isn't working noise wise. Also a foam pad or 4 pieces of eggshell foam surrounding all other sides of the mic, like a cube would be a quick solution and could be assembled like a simple foam Jenga then disassembled, the drawer would even be a good base, holding the foam up. The mp4 export should resolve the apple TV and chrome OS playback issues as well, nice work Alley.

Superfan Giovanni

2020-12-30 09:23:17 +0000 UTC

Generally subtitles irritate me, my mother's partner leaves them on the television frequently, worse than leaving up the toilet seat. However, when a lot of different people will be watching I think it's fair and correct to make the content accessible.

Heather Macdonald

2020-12-30 08:56:53 +0000 UTC

I always headcannoned him destroying the ring because he didn't want to risk still having access to it in the event that he became Angelus. If Angelus got a hold of that ring, the devastation he could cause would be horrific, especially because unlike Spike, I doubt Angelus would flaunt it about for everyone to know about. I think the ring definitely should've had some sort of drawback to a vampire wearing it though. Maybe it makes them more bloodthirsty, or maybe it just changes what can kill them (for instance maybe they're now vulnerable to silver bullets or something). Or as someone else mentioned, have him wearing it for an ep or two and becoming slowly more shitty/apathetic to people in need before realizing that its making him into a worse person and then destroying it. But he wears it for like a couple hours, maybe and then just decides "nah better get rid of it"

Nicole Iannone

2020-12-30 07:36:54 +0000 UTC

Angel destroyed the Gem of Amara in order to eliminate the temptation not only for himself but for any other vampire.

Bryce Carlson

2020-12-30 07:36:42 +0000 UTC

Headcanon: Angel had to make the decision to destroy it before he could put it on. Otherwise seeing the sun again might have made him truly happy.

David Neal

2020-12-30 07:03:09 +0000 UTC

Buffy is vastly superior to Angel in all respects.

Kirby

2020-12-30 07:01:43 +0000 UTC

That monologue is so sinfully good!

Richard Lucas

2020-12-30 06:51:57 +0000 UTC

I never enjoyed Angel as its own show as much as Buffy. HOWEVER, many fans say that Angel eventually eclipses Buffy in their eyes so I encourage you to stick with it. It definitely has some amazing bits but don't feel bad if it doesn't click with you in the same way as Buffy.

HuntingSwan

2020-12-30 06:44:45 +0000 UTC

"It's a Joss Whedon show, be careful what you wish for"

Jon Freezin-Rain

2020-12-30 06:41:24 +0000 UTC

I love this episode. It's great seeing Spike again and his opening monologue is comedy gold. Also great seeing Oz for a crossover. And the scene at the end where Angel finally gets to walk into the sunlight is very moving. I understand Angel's reasoning for destroying the ring, but he could have given a little more. Like, what if he had changed back to Angelus again and then Angelus would have been practically unbeatable. Or the moment earlier in the episode where Angel got captured, if he had been wearing the ring at that time, then it would have fallen into evil hands. So for me the good in this episode far outweighs the bad. And, finally, remember: If a ginger says you're very pale, you're probably a vampire!

Steve Quast

2020-12-30 06:16:09 +0000 UTC

The episode itself is meh....but that opening monologue with Spike, absolute gold! And it’s a fan favorite moment!

Keenan White

2020-12-30 05:03:56 +0000 UTC

Man, you're reason for destroying the ring is much better than what was given. You should have written the episode.

matt

2020-12-30 04:21:15 +0000 UTC

If the ring only allowed him to go out in daylight, it could have worked. But it making him entirely invincible would be boring. So why'd they even bother doing it? Just for the opportunity for a crossover I think. So they had to get rid of the ring, and their reasonings don't stand up to much scrutiny. I think fans have come up with better headcannon. Like that too much power could be tempting, and the potential that it could also leave him more vulnerable to becoming Angelus and thus Angelus who is unstoppable.

Loves Bitca

2020-12-30 04:15:25 +0000 UTC

Yeah, you're not wrong, in the abstract the conclusion isn't bad, it's just that how they get there is executed poorly. It's not that the show hasn't ever had MacGuffins or plot-heavy episodes, it's just that it usually takes a backseat to the message and character moments. Here we do get character moments, but they sort of feel random and the message kind of feels like an afterthought. I don't know what the reason for this is--whether they had too many things they were trying to do at this point or whatever--and it doesn't really matter. Like you said, the ending wouldn't have felt so sudden and jarring if it had been earned through storytelling, rather than an exposition dump via dialogue at the end.

Teoreetikko

2020-12-30 04:14:09 +0000 UTC

I agree, but then again why didn't the Scooby gang think of that even before they give the ring to Angel.

Ava

2020-12-30 04:00:03 +0000 UTC

I like subtitles, myself, but I come from decades of watching subbed Japanese TV, so.... This is an episode where I feel like they got too hung up on the idea of the Angel show as "more mature" than Buffy and instead went for comic-book-dark that feels insincere, hyperbolic, and immature instead. I always enjoy Spike, especially his opening narration, but the Oz interaction always feels a bit forced to me because he and Angel had interacted so little on Buffy, and Angel destroying the ring always bothers me, partly because the reasons are kind of lame, but also because yet again he is making a decision for Buffy (in this case, overriding her decision to send the ring to him) and the more he does that, the less I like him. But I'll also admit I just generally like both Angel and Buffy better when they are not interacting with each other. Alley, thank you for the honest reaction, which was in my mind more fun than the episode itself - I definitely weather the lamer bits of episodes better when you're making faces at the lameness! I have never managed to watch 100% of Angel (skipped some bits in the middle) and am hoping watching with you will get me over that hump.

bewildered

2020-12-30 03:45:52 +0000 UTC

Thank you very much for that imagery! LOL

Thom Purdy

2020-12-30 03:45:21 +0000 UTC

Yes I also hear Alley fine but show is super low

Pho3nixX

2020-12-30 03:22:41 +0000 UTC

To your point, I still think of this episode fondly, but much of that is probably due to the hilarious and self aware monologue from Spike at the beginning. The final third of this episode, at least, is a complete mess. And I agree about the damseling. It’s my most disliked aspect of the show so far.

tc3

2020-12-30 03:13:25 +0000 UTC

Honestly, Season 2 is fantastic and well worth the wait. Also, there's some really great episodes/guest appearances in this season that I will not spoil for you, but there's a couple at least that I would consider some of the finest in the Buffy verse!

Paddy H-K

2020-12-30 03:06:25 +0000 UTC

I think they kinda wrote themselves into a corner with the ring just like with the “ Annoying One.” They thought that the ring would be a great cross over but the couldn’t find a good reason for Angel to give it up. That said think how long it took for Buffy to become what you think of as Buffy and Angel has quite a few episodes to go to find it’s feet.

Collinson

2020-12-30 02:58:41 +0000 UTC

Up to this point the writers, in general, have been less concerned with plot and lore than theme and metaphor. I think Angel’s reasoning - or the writer’s reasoning behind Angel’s reasoning - makes sense. The problem is that we didn’t get to see him come to that conclusion. If Angel had chosen to put on the ring only to discover throughout the episode that his priorities shifted then his decision to destroy the ring in the end could’ve been earned.

tc3

2020-12-30 02:52:48 +0000 UTC

Buffy’s first season overall is probably rougher, but it benefits from not coming after two great seasons of television. With that in mind I’m curious what the general consensus is towards the Watcher’s Council viewing order? I’ve never watched with a guide before and I tried the Slayalive guide due to the overwhelming support it received here and apparently with all other reactors and I struggled with it from the very beginning. I used it throughout my rewatch of seasons 4 & 1 and found it to be an uneven viewing experience, to say the least. I found the Watcher’s Council guide online and despite one probably harmless switch I won’t mention due to potential spoilers it seems to me better suited for a side by side viewing of both shows. If you disagree that's okay, it's just my opinion. Has anyone tried both guides, in particular anyone who didn't use the Slayalive guide as their first viewing experience?

tc3

2020-12-30 02:33:01 +0000 UTC

Regarding subtitles. Alley, I think it's heroically conscientious of you to upload 2 versions. Personally I'm fine with either.

UTU49

2020-12-30 02:32:16 +0000 UTC

Hey, first time posting. I'm hard of hearing too! And also, english isn't my first language so subtitles are VERY welcome! Thanks!

Anne

2020-12-30 02:28:45 +0000 UTC

Angel annoys. A. Lot.

Kirby

2020-12-30 02:25:57 +0000 UTC

We need the Spike edit of all the episodes.

FernWithy

2020-12-30 02:23:39 +0000 UTC

Yeah, I can see where you're coming with. Even if the "real" reason for Spike's aimlessness may be that the writers were figuring out what to do with a popular character that had outlived its original storyline, it does kind of read like that to the viewer, so I like your analysis.

Teoreetikko

2020-12-30 02:21:41 +0000 UTC

Erica, I totally agree with you guys.

UTU49

2020-12-30 02:21:32 +0000 UTC

Angel could have made a better argument--as long as he had the ring, other vampires would be coming after it and the mission would be coopted by defending the ring. But yeah, either way, it was really just a question of "Hmm, let's get a crossover with Spike and Oz. So it'll need to be a major looking thing. But nope, we don't want that, so... Oh, and let's forget the rules and have a very silly climax that's unrelated to everything." Spike has no attention span for anything other than his love life (except with Harmony), but is passionately committed to whatever his current fascination is. I've never really liked this episode much, but I think the "he's such a dynamic character" is the explanation for most of Spike's appearances. They just need to figure out how to use him, if he comes back. I think he was initially supposed to die in "What's My Line? Pt 2," and everything after it has been, "We love Spike, we wanted to keep him... but doing what, exactly?"

FernWithy

2020-12-30 02:21:24 +0000 UTC

I am sure someone has said it but Angel S1 is like Buffy S1 some really boring/bad episodes with a few great ones mixed in then from S2 on it was all good for me. Also the thing about the bad episodes is there is always some fun part or two that makes it fun to watch like that opening with spike lol.

Justin Jefferson

2020-12-30 02:20:23 +0000 UTC

I got a buncha thoughts here. I was disappointed when he destroyed the gem of Amara too, but there are lots of reasons we can guess why Angel destroyed it. My thought has always been that he sees it as a bigger danger than benefit. If he ever turned evil again, the ring would make him almost unkillable, which would be catastrophic. I think Angel feels that outweighs the benefits of having the ring. He would prefer that NO vampire ever have the ring, rather than he have it. I always wanted Angel, Doyle, Buffy, and Giles to come up with a plan to hide the ring somewhere, so that Angelus would never know where it was, but it would still be accessible in an emergency. One thing for sure... you can't accuse the Angel writers of being indecisive. I agree that this episode is a little lacklustre. Angel Season 1 has some growing pains, just like Buffy did. Looking forward to seeing what you think of the next few episodes.

UTU49

2020-12-30 02:18:35 +0000 UTC

I never got through the first season of Angel, and episodes like this is part of the reason why. However, I'm going with the group and giving it another shot. Maybe second time lucky.

Sika6061

2020-12-30 02:12:17 +0000 UTC

Not the hair! Never the hair!! - It has its moments, but, yeah, it's not brilliant. Angel (the show) is trying to find it's feat and this is more than a bit hit and miss for me. Still - Spike narrating Angel is worth it all.

Dave Ford

2020-12-30 02:08:43 +0000 UTC

Yeah, I'm broadly in agreement with the reaction and the comments that the whole Gem of Amara storyline was a mistake by the writers, but that's really only in a lore-sense. What I mean is, the ring was always MacGuffin that was only there to drive the plot and get these characters into these situations, and then to be abandoned once its purpose is served. Alley makes this point in her reaction as well. And overall I like The Harsh Light of Day and I like parts of In the Dark. But if you think about the ring too much in terms of worldbuilding, then everything kind of falls apart. And that irks me. The Buffyverse was never super consistent with its lore, but they did a good enough job for it not to be a problem for me (or many others, I gather). But this storyline kinda pushed things to a breaking point. So, I just kinda cringe when Angel destroys the ring, and then I semi-consciously forget about the whole storyline. Basically, the ring does two things: It facilitates the crossover and it hammers home the mission statement of Angel, both as a character and as a show. But even though you can see where the writers are coming from, I think they underestimated how distracting the ring was in terms of lore. Lore was never the point of the show, but people tend to get super into that stuff in a fantasy show. Maybe the writers just dropped the ball and maybe this is just wishful thinking, but I'd like to imagine that if they were writing the show now, in an age when it's pretty much taken for granted that lore matters a lot to fans, they wouldn't have written it this way. The ring could have come with some kind of a catch, like it drives the vampire mad with hunger, making them constantly feed on humans or something, which would have been fine for Spike, but not for Angel. Again, I get where the writers were coming from in that Angel had to make the tough choice of taking the more difficult path because it's the morally right thing to do (for Angel), even if superficially there's nothing wrong with keeping and using the ring. Also, the green screen at the end and the awkward stunt scene at the pier have also bothered me a lot. Like Alley, I suspect these were production-related problems and I have to imagine that if they had had a bit more time, the espisode wouldn't have had these issues. It's a middling episode that stumbles both technically and narratively, but it still has a few fantastic moments, mostly due to Spike. All that said, I think people give the first season too hard of a time (the same thing with the first season of Buffy). Maybe it stumbles a bit in finding its footing, but I find a lot to like even in the early episodes, and overall I think of the whole first season fondly, even in relation to later seasons. Maybe that's nostalgia, I started watching Buffy when Season 3 was airing, which is the season I remember most fondly, and I was there for Angel from the start. I think there are other reasons as well, but I'm not gonna go into those yet. I'll be excited to talk about them when it's no longer spoiler territory.

Teoreetikko

2020-12-30 02:07:51 +0000 UTC

This is a draw-episode. It's a crossover episode meant to draw in fans of the original series to the new one (or at least made aware of it). It's a common thing in the first season of a spin-off series. Also, for me, the reason why Angel didn't keep the ring is because there's always that chance he'll "relapse" and go back to Angelus. Oh, and the fact the two previous vampires who wore the ring just got it taken off of them with ease.

Sudden Real

2020-12-30 02:05:32 +0000 UTC

I appreciate the subtitles as somebody who laughs over a majority of the lines! Thank you for another great reaction. Ultimately do what you think is best!

Jordan H

2020-12-30 02:04:54 +0000 UTC

When Doyle "Demoned up", he took a big sniff, so found the ring by scent.

Thom Purdy

2020-12-30 02:01:36 +0000 UTC

Somebody told reactor "Passion of the Nerd" that he looks like Marcus, and now I can't unsee it.

James Garner

2020-12-30 01:59:30 +0000 UTC

I really liked this episode but had a couple of problems with it. If they are going to introduce a concept like the Gem of Amara, they should have been prepared to offer us an episode or two with Angel actually using it. As far as Spike goes, I feel like he can do no wrong. No matter what situation they put him in, he comes across as genuine. Oz OTOH did not come across as genuine in this episode. Why was his band awol? He came to L.A. for a gig.

Eric Haefele

2020-12-30 01:58:26 +0000 UTC

YAY!! I can hear you again! Now, any chance you doing something about Buffy 4:3 so I can get sound for that one too?

Thom Purdy

2020-12-30 01:55:59 +0000 UTC

Or even just a more generic "I can't risk it falling into the wrong hands" would have been better.

Dollface

2020-12-30 01:49:21 +0000 UTC

Right there with you. "It will make us a constant target." "If it falls into the hands of our enemies, we will regret its existence." "We cannot risk Angelus having access to this." C'mon writers! We know y'all want to make every little thing about Angel wanting redemption to hammer home the narrative theme, but couldn't you also have included one of those explanations?

Erica Schaefer

2020-12-30 01:42:23 +0000 UTC

I love quest based Oz

Superfan Giovanni

2020-12-30 01:42:22 +0000 UTC

While I enjoyed Spike being on Buffy and Angel during this crossover, the whole Gem of Amarra plot was always bad to me and an obvious hole the writers dug themselves immediately in. It brings in so many plot holes and contrivances to not just to both shows but to the Buffyverse as a whole. Like the Holy Grail, it would have been better written as a myth and not an actual thing. Anyway, I don't mind the subtitles btw. Continue doing what makes you happy Alley.

ToySouljah

2020-12-30 01:36:20 +0000 UTC

Love Oz, Love Spike, Angel annoys, Gem of Amarra storyline annoys, and I think this was the 4th "damsel in distress" in the show (4th in 3 episodes, which I'm not a fan of)...AtS is definitely still trying to get it's legs. I think they crossed Oz and Spike (fan favorites) to help give it a kick-start, and it probably did the trick in exciting the fan base enough at the time to not notice things are kind of rudderless with the show still. I think most fans still think of this episode fondly. And you're right, Spike's rooftop monologue is epic!

SpikesEcho

2020-12-30 01:30:43 +0000 UTC

All I really needed Angel to say was "I can't keep this ring because Angelus might come back one day". That would've made me feel better about it. His reason was kinda meh.

Bisibia

2020-12-30 01:29:41 +0000 UTC

Also the episodes aired back to back so it has a different feeling if you watch them in one sitting

Calvin Allen

2020-12-30 01:24:23 +0000 UTC

It's actually kind of funny - this is probably the first time on the Buffyverse that we've seen a mythic problem for the protagonists to solve that DIDN'T serve as a metaphor first, but was probably contrived in order to give Spike something to do, and we're all noticing it doesn't work right away. Just thinking of Supernatural for example.. could have been much worse.. =P

Ashtara Levin

2020-12-30 01:23:49 +0000 UTC

And that's the reason Angel should have given @lostmyshoe22

Calvin Allen

2020-12-30 01:22:38 +0000 UTC

I should add too that I think making the torture vampire Marcus extra special creepy and evil helps further build the idea that while most vampires seem pretty much the same, some are different and twisted enough in specific ways that you never know when one might come along that’s really interesting or genuinely threatening ... like Spike and Dru for instance.

Andrew Pulrang

2020-12-30 01:22:20 +0000 UTC

You raise a lot of good points about the various plot elements of this episode breaking the suspension of disbelief. The way I always looked at it is something like this: Angel denying and destroying the ring is more than just the reasons he said. It underscores that there should be no magical ways out for vampires, even good ones. It gives them too much power. All of the out in the open vampire fighting stuff with no public consequences reinforces a theme throughout the Buffyverse that the regular world is apt to turn a blind eye to such things when they do break into more public view. Also, I have the feeling that they created the Gem Of Amara as a high-stakes reason to bring back Spike with a really strong motivation, but then thought better of it because it would be such a powerful distortion to the vampire story rule book to have a genuinely invulnerable vampire, or even a good vampire who in a pinch would be tempted to use the ring and thus eliminate any real danger that might come up in the future. Not the best storyline ever. But this episode had so many wonderful moments I’ve always been okay with it. Oz’s reactions to pretty much everything were perfect.

Andrew Pulrang

2020-12-30 01:20:44 +0000 UTC

This episode is totally meh. But I do like seeing spike. I think the reason his storyline is a little confusing and lacking now is because he wasn’t supposed to make it this far in the story. He was just so popular with fans, they kept bringing him back. Thank goodness! Angel does get better tho. I got the vibe you hoped this episode would be the one that sold you on Angel. This is a slow pitch haha so just give it some time :) Great reaction! I’m fine with or without subs!

Samiah

2020-12-30 01:20:00 +0000 UTC

The explanation I wish the show had given for destroying the ring was that he was afraid he'd lose his soul again and there would be an invincible Angelus. Or that he felt happy walking in the sun and that scared him. He has good reason to destroy it but the one the show gives is so weak

Calvin Allen

2020-12-30 01:19:42 +0000 UTC

I agree with your criticism of the Oz rescue thru dock scene. It felt very rushed , tho I can't fault the special effects for the time. About the ring, and why Angel destroyed it. Spike knew Angel had the ring, wouldn't be long before every vampire in the world would be after Angel and no one near him would be safe. And as you mentioned during the Buffy episode, it's pretty easy to take the ring off someone,, so how useful is it really? It's still VERY early in the series. It will find it's pace and as for you mentioning how you were expecting big changes. It's a Joss Whedon show, be careful what you wish for......keep up the great work, loving your perspective as a reactor.

Matthew Garrison-Perkins

2020-12-30 01:18:20 +0000 UTC

I think coming off of the strong seasons 2 and 3 of Buffy (particularly the phenomenal end of season 3) and also the strong intro of Buffy season 4, it can be a little jarring getting thrown back into a season 1 still-finding-our-bearings show where Angel is at right now. Don't feel bad about recognizing that. Season 1 Buffy is overall rougher, in my opinion. Anyways, I try to focus on the good bits (like Spike's intro monologue, Spike needling Angel about Buffy, and anything Oz...), and be patient with the rest the same way I know now I can look back at eps like Teacher's Pet or whatever. They'll never be my favorite or anything, but almost like trusting on faith that later on I might appreciate them for nostalgia's sake.

Erica Schaefer

2020-12-30 01:13:34 +0000 UTC

To me the ring is a lot like Angel's curse where a lot of the details of it don't make sense (like why wouldn't they tell Angel how his curse works), but it's done for the sake of the greater story. The ring is there to give Angel a way out of the life he has, a way to essentially be normal again and live like a human. Up until now he hasn't had much say in his future, becoming a vampire and regaining his soul after his vampire self wreaked havoc for centuries wasn't his choice. Dying and being randomly brought back by some unknown power was out of his control. Giving him the ring gives him a way to get out of the life he's been forced into, but he choses to stay in the dark. By having the torturer bring up the idea that he's doing it to punish himself, because he doesn't feel like he deserves it, they can have Angel then refute that by saying that he's not doing it because he hates himself or anything like that, but instead because he thinks the life he's living now is worth living. It's an important choice for the character, so for me at least I can appreciate the episode for what it's meant to be, even if it did fail in the execution in a lot of ways.

Patricia Cripps

2020-12-30 01:08:51 +0000 UTC

I agree with most of your review, there's definitely a lot of problems here with this episode which most of these early episodes have. But I think destroying the ring had to happen because it's way to dangerous if another vamp (or Angelus) were to have it.

Anthony C.

2020-12-30 01:03:16 +0000 UTC

I can't go into much detail, but Spike's constantly-changing motivations kind of seem like maybe he feels directionless without Dru. His love for Drusilla is something that has very much defined his entire existence as a vampire to this point, so when he doesn't have that I don't think he knows what to do with his life (or undeath), and just sort of goes through the motions.

A butt

2020-12-30 01:02:43 +0000 UTC

The whole Gem of Amara 2 part crossover is a little "meh" to be honest. It's okay, but it just felt like an excuse for the producers to bring back Spike for an ep on each show. Its okay, but it doesnt rank up high on my favourite Buffy or Angel eps. I agree that the side plots in both the Buffy episode (Buffy sleeping with Parker) and Angel (Angel helping Rachel against her boyfriend) are both far more interesting than the actual main ring plot in each episode imo. In terms of Angel, it really is a great show, but like Buffy, it does take a little time to find its feet, especially early on. Season 1 has both some of the best and worst episodes of the show. Like Buffy, the first season is very up and down, it finds itself in its second season imo.

Jon Dub

2020-12-30 01:00:58 +0000 UTC

Agreed! This was exactly my point a few episodes ago. Peeps need to get over it already. It's not about us, it's about Alley.

Sika6061

2020-12-30 00:57:54 +0000 UTC

I love the subs 😁 its like watching a whole new show, i thought i knew what each character said but apparently not! Keep them please 🙏🙏😍

CeNedra

2020-12-30 00:56:27 +0000 UTC

Considering Spike's last visit to the show led to Cordelia being impaled (and fake-out killed), her breaking up with Xander, and both she and Oz being cheated on, there was so much to mine from their history, and we got basically nada. Oz drops out for half the episode. It's a pretty damp squib of a crossover, IMO. The gem and its resolution were absolutely not enjoyable plot points for me. I remember seeing this episode at my girlfriend's house, and being pretty let down. So you're for sure not alone. But the stuff we did get, like Spike's bad lipreading and Oz's "We're usually laconic" are showstoppers. Well worth the price of admission. Also, Angel saves another blonde girl, so add Rachel to the list. I can't wait for him to save a redhead or something...

Ed Badalucca

2020-12-30 00:49:23 +0000 UTC

I agree with your assessment of this episode. It's not very good. Why bring up the Gem of Amarra only to destroy it? Makes no sense. The only good part is the first scene with Spike. The rest is kind of a big snooze fest.

Kirby

2020-12-30 00:48:54 +0000 UTC

As someone who "Is" hard of hearing, I watch many shows with subtitles. I've also seen this show multiple times but whatever is best for you to fully enjoy the show is key. Also Angel only gets better and better with very few sub-par episodes. You'll def enjoy it.

Bastion33

2020-12-30 00:45:56 +0000 UTC

It does not bother me if there is subtitles in the episode. I will not watch a reaction if I did not see the episode myself before. If it is easier for Alley just to upload the episode with subtitles I have no problem. When I watch a show that is in another language I always go with English subtitles as I can’t stand when it is dubbed to English.

Jason fielding

2020-12-30 00:45:06 +0000 UTC

I think the whole episode explained why the ring had to be destroyed. He’d be spending half his time defending the ring from those trying to steal it from him and it’s too dangerous to be out there even if he’s not using it.

Lostmyshoe22

2020-12-30 00:44:25 +0000 UTC

I think the setup from Buffy to Angel was just supposed be fun/monster of the week episodes because Spikes character was loved so much that they brought him back in both Buffy and Angel. Those episodes aren't supposed to have a real impact on the plot, they're just so that we can see a fan favorite character that we haven't seen in a while. It’s not to be taken too seriously, but I definitely agree with a lot of the points you made.

Dhevian

2020-12-30 00:43:14 +0000 UTC

Agreed with Brittney. Subs or no doesn’t matter to me. (I already know what’s going on!) What matters is whether they help or hurt the reactor’s viewing experience, and that’s just down to their preference. I agree that Angel’s reasons for destroying the ring were kind of weak. I mean, it’s totally in character for him to feel like he doesn’t deserve it and so on, but I was always surprised that he didn’t point out the obvious reason — what if it was lost/stolen, or worse, what if he lost his soul again? Imagine Angelus with the gem! I remember clearly on first watch being a little frustrated with that end scene. (Though Angel’s little “how IS your mom?” at the very end kills me.)

escalator_dropdown

2020-12-30 00:38:49 +0000 UTC

Angel destroying the ring is what had to happen to keep this show going, but it has never made a whole lot of sense for the character. It's a definite cop out. But on the plus side, that Frankie Tripod joke!

Kevin Jank

2020-12-30 00:37:02 +0000 UTC

I'm watching the subtitled version right now and am having a hard time hearing the show: the volume is so low. Alley is coming through loud and clear though. Anyone else?

Jeffrey

2020-12-30 00:31:14 +0000 UTC

I like subs in video games but not in videos. Go figure. Anyway, this ep is effing cringe. Great reaction though.

marcel m

2020-12-30 00:19:54 +0000 UTC

I don't understand why this is a topic. We are reacting to Alley right? We've seen the show...if the subtitles assists her in understanding what she's watching better, then what's the issue. Why would I want her to risk missing or not understanding something if I'm reacting to her? Anywho, I love this episode lol.

Brittney

2020-12-30 00:19:32 +0000 UTC

My partner wants subs on for almost everything we watch, so I’m used to them. I abstain.

Jeffrey

2020-12-30 00:16:07 +0000 UTC

U aren't wrong

Zak

2020-12-30 00:15:58 +0000 UTC

oh gosh!! hope you both stay safe and healthy!

Alley Box

2020-12-30 00:15:51 +0000 UTC

I'm in the UK too but if I'm awake then i watch 😂 just has to be done 😁

CeNedra

2020-12-30 00:15:05 +0000 UTC

I hope you don't feel too much anxiety surrounding the subtitles debate. I can empathise with wanting to try and please everyone but, personally, I don't understand any objection to their presence. They help HOH people, and the vast majority of your patrons will have surely seen both shows numerous times, so I can't see how the inclusion of subtitles would even remotely intrude upon their viewing experience. Either way, I hope you go with whichever option makes you happiest!

Paddy H-K

2020-12-30 00:13:39 +0000 UTC

My roommate just came out positive for covid so yes please more videos take my mind off the STRESS!

Elisa H.

2020-12-30 00:12:23 +0000 UTC

As someone not hard of hearing I don't have an issue with subtitles or without . So whatever thr majority wants and works for you. Maybe u can do a poll and let that be ur guide? With, without and I'm good either way

Elisa H.

2020-12-30 00:10:46 +0000 UTC

Alley, you might just be the nicest uploder I've ever encountered. I can't believe you went ahead with 2 uploads just because of the Subs debate. I simply love you. I'll support whatever you decided to do, as long as it serves your viewing.

Ashtara Levin

2020-12-30 00:05:25 +0000 UTC

The subtitles make it much easier to watch since I'm very hard of hearing, I need them with anything I watch so I try to line up your video with hulu (captions), this is much easier though. Thank you for including them.

Samantha Hecker

2020-12-30 00:04:31 +0000 UTC

Subs are helpful imo - can manage without but miss stuff sometimes without them

Ruth Newman

2020-12-29 23:58:33 +0000 UTC

As a non English speaker I'm really used to subtitles and don't consider them any kind of problem (quite the opposite). Sadly I'm too sleepy to watch it rn but "Quick, to the Angel-mobile! Away!" is one of the best lines ever.

DB

2020-12-29 23:57:39 +0000 UTC

i feel that! and sometimes i feel bad for talking over jokes or stuff lol\

Alley Box

2020-12-29 23:51:22 +0000 UTC

i understandddd, i hate that too. wish there were no credits in the beginning regardless but the subtitles really mess it up even more haha

Alley Box

2020-12-29 23:50:55 +0000 UTC

nope, ur all good, i was wondering how everyone felt about it :) thank you for the feedback

Alley Box

2020-12-29 23:49:48 +0000 UTC

I'm pro-subtitles. We're all here to watch your reactions, but sometimes I get caught up in the episode and don't wanna miss anything :D With subs I can watch you react but still keep on top of dialogue/jokes/plot etc. It's the best of both worlds!

A butt

2020-12-29 23:46:11 +0000 UTC

I'm cool with subs the only time it bothers me is at the very beginning of episodes when due to the credits being at the bottom of the screen the subs cover the actors. As long as you are getting the proper experience so we get the proper reaction is what counts.

Collinson

2020-12-29 23:44:01 +0000 UTC

Ffs Alley its midnight in the uk, been on the whisky and u upload a reaction with Spike in...disgraceful. anyway time to watch + DW about the subtitles if it makes it easier for u then fine as long as the reactions are as fire as usual idc

Zak

2020-12-29 23:43:39 +0000 UTC

I like it with the options. I am not trying to be noninclusive when I say that I prefer without the captions. For me, when I see words on something, I am compelled to read them and then I miss out on everything else. I think it's the teacher in me. I hope you don't think I am being a curmudgeon. Thanks Alley!

aeronitz

2020-12-29 23:43:24 +0000 UTC

"No, not the hair. Never the hair." Fucking love that entire scene. I would love to see a whole episode of Angel with Spike narrating and speaking for all the characters.

Kirby

2020-12-29 23:42:24 +0000 UTC

Angel || 1x03 || Full Reaction

Comments

Hi, the link says it's old or expired, so it doesn't work. Is there a new link? :)

If Angel kept the ring and became invincible I would have stopped watching the show. Joss has a way of making things seem inconsequential in the moment and then making it relevant later. If you don't pay attention then you'll miss stuff later on.

it gets better :) like the reaction and i understand the pet peeves. :) keep it up

thank you for no subtitle option, can't say how much they irk me.

I'm hard of hearing thank you for the subtitles!!!!!

(Happy New Year!)

Every vampire in the world would come looking for Angel and the ring. That is the best reason for destroying the ring. The second best reason to destroy the ring is for the show not to turn into the VD.

Lol, I do love a good pun.

Sir Deb, I get people who feel that. However, I prefer all seasons of Buffy over any given season of Angel. Overall, it really is the better show. There's a reason it's still remembered and beloved. There's a good reason that it's the most studied TV show of all time.

If Angel can't be killed, there are no .......STAKES

It's my understanding that her new setup allows her to screen capture while she's recording. So, the version she's watching is the version we're seeing. Regardless, subtitles are great for HOH or folks like me who get distracted by other sounds in my environment.

LMAO

The second half of this episode feels like they'd planned on featuring the ring for several episodes, but they got half way through filming and someone told them that the gem needed to be gone by the end of the episode. I really appreciate the lack of subtitles.

The problem is getting a hold of Juliet Landau to play Drusilla. While I'm sure she enjoys playing the part, it's a little "low rent" for actors of her caliber. It's good for her if she's busy with other work.

If I were back in time while they were writing this episode, and Joss asked my opinion, here's my answer. Angel gives the reasons I stated above and then says, "In the long run I think destroying the gem will save more lives than keeping it and using it."

Thanks. Tell Joss that you think that. ;)

I like that. That's a nice piece of head canon.

Hey! We finally have sound on Macs! No more running it through a converter. Thanks Alley!

Don't worry! It gets better! :)

Willow kinda shut Xander down before he could question it "don't make a fuss"... Looking back they probably should have discussed it lol

I disagree with this kirby. The ceilings are both very high, but angel has more duds. I prefer angel season 2 to Buffy season 4 for example.

Yeah I hate the child molester character HATE. Like WHY. And spike is way too one-note here. I said this before but after the stellar pilot, Angel takes a little while to find its footing. There’s some goodness coming up! (Also more badness lol)

I love that there are jingly bell sounds at the end of the Angel theme! haha

I watched the subtitled version and thoroughly enjoyed myself. If your goal is to be inclusive, I vote do it. The balance of split-second spoilers versus inclusivity, inclusion wins every time. Thanks for these as always!

I finally figured out what you should do at the end of the Angel opening credits. You should get a black cape, tie it to the chair, and at the end of the song just do one big dramatic *swoosh* with it as the music begins to fade in time with Angel's dramatic coat lol...

I agree. I didn't mind watching Alley's reactions to Buffy without subtitles. I have the episodes practically memorized. I've never re-watched Angel with the exception of a handful of episodes. Although, in my case I do have hearing loss and I watch most shows with subtitles.

"I agree, but then again why didn't the Scooby gang think of that even before they give the ring to Angel." I'm sure Xander thought of it plenty, but they wouldn't listen to him, anyway. Probably Giles thought of it, too.

Ok but the version she watches isn’t the version we see on our screen, so how she chooses to edit it doesn’t affect how she is watching it. So I don’t really see how this is even a factor, she can still watch with subtitles regardless.

This is my least favourite episode of Angel (I'm midway through Season 2) . Just not fun at all. So much icky torture and a lack of the usual witty dialogue that typically makes the bad episodes of Buffy/Angel still enjoyable. It'll pick up I assure you.

Cool! I'm excited. Part of the reason I'm happy Alley decided to watch Angel as well is so I can give it another go. Passion of the Nerd is a fan, so it can't be that bad, right? ;^)

That's the funny thing. I really liked this episode when it originally aired. I think I was excited to see Spike and Oz on Angel. And the opening with Spike is so great. But the rest of it is just really mediocre TV show.

As lame as this episode is, once again, it's just so ridiculously entertaining to watch! The character dynamics are enough to get through any rough patches.

An invincible vampire would have gotten old really quickly . I think that storyline only deserved a couple of episodes . Didn't Supernatural do an Amara storyline which lasted a whole season where they clearly painted themselves into a corner with a really cheesy ending . Now that was bad .

Nah. As you said, it's just a stunt in LA. There's probably bound to be a film crew somewhere! Everyday crazyness!

Who says it didnt made the news? But its still LA, i am petty sure crazy things happen there all the time too, and its not like it was obvious that they where vampires. Could be just crazed assholes.

Angelus would've worn it on one of his toes so nobody could ever see it underneath his evil shoes :D

Generally subtitles irritate me, my mother's partner leaves them on the television frequently, worse than leaving up the toilet seat. However, when a lot of different people will be watching I think it's fair and correct to make the content accessible.

Angel destroyed the Gem of Amara in order to eliminate the temptation not only for himself but for any other vampire.

Headcanon: Angel had to make the decision to destroy it before he could put it on. Otherwise seeing the sun again might have made him truly happy.

Buffy is vastly superior to Angel in all respects.

That monologue is so sinfully good!

I never enjoyed Angel as its own show as much as Buffy. HOWEVER, many fans say that Angel eventually eclipses Buffy in their eyes so I encourage you to stick with it. It definitely has some amazing bits but don't feel bad if it doesn't click with you in the same way as Buffy.

"It's a Joss Whedon show, be careful what you wish for"

The episode itself is meh....but that opening monologue with Spike, absolute gold! And it’s a fan favorite moment!

Man, you're reason for destroying the ring is much better than what was given. You should have written the episode.

I agree, but then again why didn't the Scooby gang think of that even before they give the ring to Angel.

Thank you very much for that imagery! LOL

Yes I also hear Alley fine but show is super low

Honestly, Season 2 is fantastic and well worth the wait. Also, there's some really great episodes/guest appearances in this season that I will not spoil for you, but there's a couple at least that I would consider some of the finest in the Buffy verse!

Regarding subtitles. Alley, I think it's heroically conscientious of you to upload 2 versions. Personally I'm fine with either.

Hey, first time posting. I'm hard of hearing too! And also, english isn't my first language so subtitles are VERY welcome! Thanks!

Angel annoys. A. Lot.

We need the Spike edit of all the episodes.

Yeah, I can see where you're coming with. Even if the "real" reason for Spike's aimlessness may be that the writers were figuring out what to do with a popular character that had outlived its original storyline, it does kind of read like that to the viewer, so I like your analysis.

Erica, I totally agree with you guys.

I never got through the first season of Angel, and episodes like this is part of the reason why. However, I'm going with the group and giving it another shot. Maybe second time lucky.

Not the hair! Never the hair!! - It has its moments, but, yeah, it's not brilliant. Angel (the show) is trying to find it's feat and this is more than a bit hit and miss for me. Still - Spike narrating Angel is worth it all.

I appreciate the subtitles as somebody who laughs over a majority of the lines! Thank you for another great reaction. Ultimately do what you think is best!

When Doyle "Demoned up", he took a big sniff, so found the ring by scent.

Somebody told reactor "Passion of the Nerd" that he looks like Marcus, and now I can't unsee it.

YAY!! I can hear you again! Now, any chance you doing something about Buffy 4:3 so I can get sound for that one too?

Or even just a more generic "I can't risk it falling into the wrong hands" would have been better.

I love quest based Oz

All I really needed Angel to say was "I can't keep this ring because Angelus might come back one day". That would've made me feel better about it. His reason was kinda meh.

Also the episodes aired back to back so it has a different feeling if you watch them in one sitting

And that's the reason Angel should have given @lostmyshoe22

The explanation I wish the show had given for destroying the ring was that he was afraid he'd lose his soul again and there would be an invincible Angelus. Or that he felt happy walking in the sun and that scared him. He has good reason to destroy it but the one the show gives is so weak

I agree with most of your review, there's definitely a lot of problems here with this episode which most of these early episodes have. But I think destroying the ring had to happen because it's way to dangerous if another vamp (or Angelus) were to have it.

Agreed! This was exactly my point a few episodes ago. Peeps need to get over it already. It's not about us, it's about Alley.

I love the subs 😁 its like watching a whole new show, i thought i knew what each character said but apparently not! Keep them please 🙏🙏😍

I agree with your assessment of this episode. It's not very good. Why bring up the Gem of Amarra only to destroy it? Makes no sense. The only good part is the first scene with Spike. The rest is kind of a big snooze fest.

As someone who "Is" hard of hearing, I watch many shows with subtitles. I've also seen this show multiple times but whatever is best for you to fully enjoy the show is key. Also Angel only gets better and better with very few sub-par episodes. You'll def enjoy it.

I think the whole episode explained why the ring had to be destroyed. He’d be spending half his time defending the ring from those trying to steal it from him and it’s too dangerous to be out there even if he’s not using it.

Angel destroying the ring is what had to happen to keep this show going, but it has never made a whole lot of sense for the character. It's a definite cop out. But on the plus side, that Frankie Tripod joke!

I'm watching the subtitled version right now and am having a hard time hearing the show: the volume is so low. Alley is coming through loud and clear though. Anyone else?

I like subs in video games but not in videos. Go figure. Anyway, this ep is effing cringe. Great reaction though.

My partner wants subs on for almost everything we watch, so I’m used to them. I abstain.

U aren't wrong

I finally figured out what you should do at the end of the Angel opening credits. You should get a black cape, tie it to the chair, and at the end of the song just do one big dramatic swoosh with it as the music begins to fade in time with Angel's dramatic coat lol...