Airdate: Thursday, September 15, 2011 8PM
Klaus and Stefan corner a werewolf
What exactly does the title of the season premiere have to do with anything? While the title “The Birthday” suggests a focus on the birthday girl, Elena (Nina Dobrev), the center of attention falls on the mysterious Klaus (Joseph Morgan) and his newfound partner, Stefan (Paul Wesley).
“See the thing is, I don’t need saving. I want you to let me go.” I like the evil Stefan. He’s getting back to his roots. Remember, he used to be the hell raiser while Damon (Ian Somerhalder) was being the good boy. “Hey you should learn to knock. What if I was… indecent?” (I love the double entendre here but don’t think Elena appreciated it much.) Okay, maybe Damon is the bad boy who can’t—and shouldn’t—let go of his naughty side. It suits him. Besides, Stefan has more depth as a vampire when not playing by the rules. The internal war raging in his conscience is clearly expressed in his eyes. Honestly, I don’t think Klaus is all that bad for Stefan. He’s bringing out the vamp in him which is so much better than the Emo high school boy with an affinity for drinking blood. We’re seeing a new side to Stefan, and also getting an idea of who Klaus is. That’s a win/win in my book. For a Brit, Morgan slips seamlessly into an American accent. I wonder what other surprises he has in store for us as he continues to grow in his character.
Observations:
Can't you just feel the sexual tension between Caroline and Tyler?
Caroline (Candice Accola) and Tyler (Michael Trevino) are kidding themselves if they think they have anyone fooled. We know they’re together. Or at least they want to be. Now this is a relationship I wouldn’t mind seeing flourish. They’re fresh, dying to jump one another (“I am horny all the time now.”) and totally free and able to. Screw what anyone thinks.
With Damon following Stefan and Klaus across the country, will he continue cleaning up Stefan’s messes? Is Damon truly his brother’s keeper? I’m curious how their relationship dynamic will change in coming episodes.
Is Stefan playing Klaus? I know he says he’s in Klaus’ service, but is he being compelled or just going about interrogating, murdering and dismembering innocent people of his own accord? I can’t imagine what’s going through his head as he tries to keep some semblance of himself and not turn into the monster Klaus is creating.
What’s up with the drug/alcohol use amongst these teens? It bothers me because I know there are younger viewers watching the show. Not really making a great impression there, writers. Speaking of which… “I am every parent’s worst nightmare. I’m the chaperone/teacher from hell.” Well, Alaric (Matt Davis), I think we can cut you a break. You’ve been through a lot and I’m wondering too why Elena (Nina Dobrev) and Jeremy (Steven R. McQueen) haven’t kicked him out of their house already. I’m sure it’s because they miss Jenna (Sara Canning) and like having an adult figure around. They all need each other and I hope they see that before it’s too late.
I’m glad to finally see the supernatural creatures behaving as such. Using their super hearing and other abilities on a whim… that’s what they should be doing. I hate seeing vampires and werewolves who behave like humans when they don’t have to.
I miss Elijah (Daniel Gillies). While I doubt he could rein his brother in, it would be nice to see what he could bring to the table in the save Stefan effort. I bet that dagger would come in handy right about now.
Oh Damon, there's no hope at the bottom of that glass
The music in “The Birthday” is amazing. I enjoy just about every song played and the way they complement the ambiance of a moment. “You Make Me Feel Good” plays when Tyler and Caroline finally let go and kiss one another. What better way to express those feelings they can’t or are afraid to say but through song.
Matt (Zach Roerig) is seriously hurting. He needs something to keep his mind preoccupied so he’ll stop lashing out at Caroline. I feel so bad for him because he doesn’t seem to have anyone to talk to but Jeremy. Now that Jeremy has confided in Matt about seeing ghosts, maybe Matt can help figure out what’s going on with him. I sure as heck would like to know what’s going on.
“The Birthday” is a great way to kick off season three. It kept me interested, wanting to learn more and happy to see the cast back for a new season. Stefan’s back to being “The Ripper;” Klaus is making the rounds to find a pack to run with; and everyone’s feelings seem to be at a breaking point. Ooh, do you think Klaus can make his own vampire/werewolf hybrids? I’m guessing we’ll find out. And how about the ending to this episode? What did you think? Don’t be afraid to leave a comment and tell me what you liked or disliked about “The Birthday.”
Tune in to The Vampire Diaries, next Thursday at 8PM/7c on The CW. For more on the show, visit http://www.cwtv.com/shows/the-vampire-diaries.
All photos ©2011 The CW Network, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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