Have read all of the books (more than once actually) and love when you all compare the book and the show. Should just warn viewers that book spoilers may be discussed.
I haven't watched your recap yet but I really liked E3. They are staying so close to the book I can remember reading some of the passages they say. David Berry is excellent but maybe a little too much white powder. He looks like a very handsome vampire. Jamie's time in prison needed a bit more sadness/suffering. Being pushed around by guards didn't seem like enough. I don't like seeing him like that but his real personality shone through thanks to Sam. Loved seeing Murtogh again and maybe again in the colonies? Jamie talking about Claire was a tearjerker. Claire's situation with Frank always seemed unrealistic to me. Could have been the times and less freedom for women but why stay together. They could have worked things out with the divorce. Claire felt very fake like she wasn't being herself and I know she wasn't. Sad and a lot of guilt for Claire at Franks death. We know she'll carry that with her. We're getting to the best parts and then the best part. Love this story so much.
SO funny, Sassenach. I never put that together in my head. David Berry could have been Brad Pitt's brother in Interview with a Vampire! LOL!
TOTALLY agree about us not seeing Jamie suffer enough (for my liking, at least.) After all these years, the thing that can still make me cry when I hear a song on the radio is the thought of Jamie lying alone and cold on the floor at Ardsmuir. I didn't feel that here. Not complaining; just saying. 👍🏼
Jamie is speaking French - The name of the sauce on the peasant was Vin de Bourgogne. When I cannot understand the dialog (learned this watching British TV), I turn the Closed Caption on and get the translation.
Hi Ladies, Love watching your videos and look forward to hearing what you have to say about the show. It makes me feel as if I'm dissecting each episode right there with you.
I was wondering what the red wine sauce line was as well. I believe Jamie said the wine sauce was "Vin de Bourgogne", which made me think of episode 302 where Fergus says he prefers french wine to whiskey. It also reminded me of Jamie and Claire's times in France...I wonder if that's what brought a smile to Jamie's face when he tasted it. I believe Lord John chuckled because he did not know if that was indeed the red wine used in the sauce and at that moment he realized this 'Prisoner" is actually a well educated man with exquisite taste.
I could be mistaken and wouldn't be surprised if my ears misheard that line, so I may be way off. Would love to know what others thought of that line.
Again, Thanks for doing what you do! I really enjoy watching you both!
This from France: You're absolutely right, it was "vin de Bourgogne" (repeated to Murtagh & Co.). Also remember Jamie was a wine merchant replacing his uncle Jared in Paris!
We try, Patricia. I promise! ❤️(So topical, I JUST found one of my posts from 2009 last night...and I was saying that I avoided the Ladies of Lallybroch's site because of spoilers!)
Vin de Bourgogne is Burgandy, dry red wine. I have a killer recipe for a beef gravy made with beef broth, dry red wine, tomato paste, bacon and roasted shallots. It's to die for!
Position rack in center of oven and preheat to 375°F . In 9-inch-diameter pie pan, toss shallots with oil to coat. Season with salt and pepper. Roast until shallots are deep brown and very tender, stirring occasionally, about 30 minutes.
Boil broth and Port in large saucepan until reduced to 3 3/4 cups, about 30 minutes. Whisk in tomato paste. (Shallots and broth mixture can be made 1 day ahead. Cover separately; chill.) Pat beef dry; sprinkle with thyme, salt and pepper. In large roasting pan set over medium heat, sauté bacon until golden, about 4 minutes. Using slotted spoon, transfer bacon to paper towels. Add beef to pan; brown on all sides over medium-high heat, about 7 minutes. Transfer pan to oven; roast beef until meat thermometer inserted into center registers 125°F for medium-rare, about 45 minutes. Transfer beef to platter. Tent loosely with foil. Spoon fat off top of pan drippings in roasting pan. Place roasting pan over high heat. Add broth mixture and bring to boil, scraping up any browned bits. Transfer to medium saucepan; bring to simmer. Mix 3 tablespoons butter and flour in small bowl to form smooth paste; whisk into broth mixture and simmer until sauce thickens, about 2 minutes. Whisk in 3 tablespoons butter. Stir in roasted shallots and reserved bacon. Season sauce with salt and pepper. Cut beef into 1/2-inch-thick slices. Spoon some sauce over. Pass remaining sauce.
Note: Tawny port is the listed ingredient (and my personal preference) but any dry red does well. This sauce/gravy is simply divine over potatoes mashed with butter and sour cream.
I think if Claire had never gone through the stones, etc etc, she eventually would have worked as a nurse.
Frank not attending the graduation dinner just seemed so contrived to me. I saw it as a stupid shortcut way to show that Claire did graduate, Bree favored Frank over Claire, that Frank was a jerk and that he had a girlfriend. But it was forgivable because Voyager is a very long book. ��
Re: the LJG scene when he put his hand on Jamie's, I thought the look on Sam's face was absolutely Emmy-worthy. Sam killed it this episode! For me he "became" JAMMF of the later books this episode.
I was cracking up when y'all were talking about the botched big reveal of Murtaugh because I did the same exact thing!!! ��������. "Is that Murtaugh?!?! Oh, wait, I guess not. Wait!! Is IS!! Or is it??" ��
Overall, loved this episode (and your live tweets/recaps). Btw, have read all the main books, but not all of the short stories/novellas yet. I don't mind spoilers though.
About Murtagh, totally agree with you that his reveal was a bit confusing. Is it just me or does he look kinda like Rasputin from Disney Anastasia?
About Frank and med school graduation, Book Frank was supportive of the med school thing to the point where he talked Claire out of dropping out that time Bree got in an accident. So, I thought it was out of character for him to miss the celebratory dinner too.
About Frank and the Eggo, I think it's more like what Tracy said. I'm Chinese by blood, but living in the Philippines. I was born here, but my ancestors and older relatives came over from China during the 50s - 70s. They're not ungrateful that the Philippines gave them a home, decent living and a community to belong to, but they certainly see China as their homeland and identify with Chinese culture (food, ideologies, etc) more. At the same time, they want to impart to us younger generation the Chinese culture and heritage we have so they teach us the language, traditions etc. So, I saw Frank's English breakfast thing as about culture preservation rather than being a snob.
"Is it just me or does he look kinda like Rasputin from Disney Anastasia?" LOLOL I'll have to look that one up!
GREAT points about your Chinese family living in the Philippines. I think the Millie snobbery may have pushed me over the edge with Frank, though. He just seemed to have a general disdain for all things American.
Hi guys. This is my first comment here, but I've been watching and loving your recaps for a while. I haven't read all the books yet (I'm tracking with Voyager pretty much where the current season is at), and I would be so sad to be in the 1% of non-series-completers who can't watch your recaps anymore. :( So I'm just putting in my vote that I would appreciate some sort of spoiler alert if you discuss major plot points from later books in the series.
Keep up the good work! It's so great that you two sisters share an equal love for the series. I had no idea until today's recap that the whole thing started accidentally with an un-private youtube video! Too funny! (The fact that you're siblings reminds me of the vlog series my kids used to watch between the author John Green [Fault in Our Stars] and his brother Hank! It's a great concept for drawing viewers!)
Just my two cents here: I approach your recaps already having A) read Voyager and B) watched the episode. If people haven't watched the show they shouldn't be watching a "recap." So I wouldn't be worried about spoilers as long as it's confined to what happened in that ep. People should assume a discussion will contain spoilers.
I agree 100%. I'm only hoping for a spoiler alert for other books in the series beyond Voyager. I too have already watched the show when I come here for the recap.
Frank only thought he could come to America and become a part of it. If you look back to season 1--he was reading his notes when they were first in their bedroom and SHE had to "make a move" on him. He treats her like a young student who of course will do HIS will. He hasnt changed at all---CLAIRE is the one who has grown up and changed. He hardly acted interested in her on their second honeymoon--would rather be with Dr S and So or the Reverend!! The script that has us hating him in this eps. is meant to say "this is WHY Claire has come to hate him. Claire is no different than we.
OMG! Everyone is raped, everyone has PTSD, arrested, beaten etc..... but we always have JAMMF. His body, eyes, intelligence, humor, body, eyes, body........
Yes... I have read all the books. I know it would be hard not to talk ahead! 🙂 So, you guys will have to decide what to do because from the comments above some people have not read the books. And the people should! The books are great!!!
I actually cried when Claire was saying goodbye to Frank. Because now, she has no one to live and care for her. She has lost a lot. Her only consolation is she still has Bree. However, I never understood since Bree was Jamie's child why she wasn't more protective of her and why she didn't devote all her time and energy to her? Maybe Bree was a painful reminder of what she lost and she simply distant herself from the pain unconsciously. Sometimes, in real life, we all do that without realizing. The TV show is doing a great job of showing us the lost everyone felt. Kudos to the writers and all the actors!!!
I think it's because Claire's calling for medicine and healing is incredibly central to her being. It's VERY important to her. That fact is glossed over a bit in the show, I think. It is much more obvious in the books. She loves Bree to death, but it takes time to be a doctor!
Hi Ladies, I'm enjoying the season so far. Episode 3 was good, if not a bit slow, but as a lonnnggg time reader, I know they are setting the stage. I havenea had a chance to watch your reviews, but I always wathc the show with closed captioning on. There's no way I'd be able to understand anything w/o it! The Murtagh reveal felt a little odd..at first I though Jamie was hearing his voice in his head! I love that they kept him in the show as his departure from the books always felt at loose ends. It was just poof!, he's gone and forgotten. Their parting was sad, but I like where I think it's heading.
My favorite of Season 3 episodes so far. We're getting closer! They covered a lot this episode, but I was happy for it. Count me in the, "Is that Murtagh? It is Murtagh. I think it's Murtagh." group. I am totally ok with this version of Murtagh. ;) I don't begrudge Frank his "Candy", truthfully, but to invite her to his home (Claire's home!). Tacky. Anyway, another great recap.
Ok This is long, and I'm sorry, I just started writing and couldn't stop. Please don't feel obligated to read. I respect and love all the various thoughts and opinions about Outlander. I feel like I often see things differently than other fans, and I hope I don't upset anyone with my thoughts. Many times I learn from other's comments, and it allows me to see things in a way I hadn't before. Love you guys!!! And thank you so much for doing this!! Outlander Episode 303 “All Debts Paid”
Ok, where to begin..... Out of the three episodes we’ve had so far this season, 303 is my least favorite. I think it really just boils down to the writing. This week’s show seemed choppy and disjointed to me, with dialogue that didn’t flow well; leaving me saying, “Wait what, what just happened?”.
The most exciting part of the story, this week, was also the biggest letdown.....MURTAGH IS ALIVE!!! Wait, what?? Murtagh is alive, and we get no back story on how he came to be at Ardsmuir prison?? Nothing on how Jamie was reunited with his beloved godfather, after thinking him dead??? This is the biggest change to the original storyline to date, and they treat it like nothing? Wow!! Who’s idea was that?? Biggest underwhelming reveal to date. That being said, I was extremely happy to see Murtagh will be taking over one of the Ardsmuir prisoners’ roles in the future storyline, most likely Duncan Innes? This was a great choice made by the writers. Continuing that relationship, which has such great chemistry between all of them, will be so much more rewarding in the future. Can you just imagine Murtagh’s reunion with Claire, or him meeting Bree? I just hope they handle it better than his reveal with Jamie in prison.
Lord John Gray. Ok, I like John’s character, I really do, but I do not have an overwhelming affection for him and his relationship with Jamie, like many others. I do think David Berry makes for a very good Lord John Gray, and was blown away at how much he looks like his younger self from last season! How does casting do that??!! I didn’t think the progression of his romantic feelings and affections for Jamie was well developed? I did not pick up on the fact that John’s feelings for Jamie had become of a romantic nature until all of a sudden John is stroking Jamie’s hand. It was one of those, “Wait, when did that happen?” moments. Now, in fairness, they only had one episode to establish this complicated relationship, and that was really difficult to do. Honestly though, I was more interested in Jamie’s and Murtagh’s scene time together, than I was in John’s and Jamie’s. I just didn’t feel the connection and chemistry between them that we get in the books (Honestly, I just didn’t find the Ardsmuir storyline very interesting at all). Maybe I will feel differently after watching next week, since Helswater develops Jamie’s and John’s connection even more; that is, if I can even stomach watching next week...
Something I’m beginning to feel, after watching these first three episodes, is the fact that I like and relate to Claire’s storyline more than Jamie’s. I think it’s better developed and written. It takes more time establishing Claire’s emotional journey during these years of separation, and the deterioration of her marriage to Frank over the fact that she has never been able to get over her love and loss of Jamie. It has a very distinctive arc, that has allowed viewers time to really process Frank’s and Claire’s emotional journey. I really feel Claire’s loss and pain, but I can’t really say that about Jamie.
Every week, thus far, we have Jamie in a different setting, interacting with a whole set of new characters. I feel his emotional journey is being overwhelmed by this constantly changing storyline; where as Claire’s story remains constant, and the focus is more on just her relationship with Frank, and how Jamie is always on her mind.
Also, as Claire’s story continues to reinforce her inability to let go of Jamie, I feel like Jamie’s story shows him moving on through the natural stages of grief: first, pain and sorrow; then, denial; and finally acceptance. In the beginning of the episode, Jamie still can’t stand talking about Claire (aka. scene with Murtagh); but by the end, he’s accepted that she is really gone, and gets over his desire to not live without her. Jamie can talk about Claire without pain, and he now has closure. Great...just in time for Helswater (eye roll).....
On the other hand, Claire does not have closure, she can’t even talk about Jamie, Frank’s conditions.... Then there’s Claire’s line, “that amount of time doesn’t exist” says it all. Why can’t they give Jamie such a line??!! He has yet to say an endearing thing about Claire and his sorrow over losing her and their child! Where is my line!!!!! “Lord that she may be safe, she and the child.” That’s all that is needed to reinforce Jamie’s sadness over his lost for Claire, and his constance thought for their safety. Yet we don’t get it. If I wasn’t a book reader, with the knowledge of Jamie’s inner dialogue about how much he thinks and pines for Claire during this time, I wouldn’t feel his since of loss! This isn’t good. I think the writers feel Jamie’s silence speaks louder than words, but I have to disagree. I need more affirmation about his feelings for Claire.
Now, I have to sit through him conceiving another child with another woman, watching him form a relationship with his bastard son, and then grieve and feel guilt for their losses. What’s that going to do to Jamie’s lost love story with Claire??!! You know, the main storyline! I’ll tell you, it’s going to feel like losing Claire and Bree was just another sad chapter in Jamie’s miserable life. It will loose its agency and emotional weight, because Claire and Bree now just become another mother and child that Jamie grieves for. Now I know, Jamie doesn’t love Geneva in the book, but he does harbor a lot of guilt over her death.
The show is not doing a good job of reinforcing Jamie’s emotional grief for Claire, the way they are Claire’s for Jamie. It could potentially make their relationship seem lopsided moving forward, and the printshop seem insincere on Jamie’s part. Did he really miss Claire as much as Claire missed him? Was he celibate for 20 years, because he couldn’t move on from Claire?? Does he really feel Bree’s loss like he does his bastard son, Willie?? See, the whole Helswater storyline takes away the specialness of Claire and Jamie’s story for me.
It will be interesting to see how the show continues to handle this...I really don’t have much hope at this point. Not sure I’m going to watch next week, for fear it will completely ruin the printshop for me.
Jan, take a deep breath and keep watching. I agree we did not see Jamie suffering enough let alone pining over Claire. He was very sweet when he talked about her with Murtogh and told LJG her name. They did a fantastic job showing his love for her in S1. I'm surprised anyone will believe in his deep love for her after S2. S2 took me out of my obsession for Outlander and it hasn't come back. Don't get me wrong, I'm really enjoying these first 3 episodes of S3, LJG, and all the lines from the book. I even cried a bit in E3 of S3. I never cried in S2. I divorced myself of the series after Jamie's treatment of Claire well into E4 of S2. And I guess I will never come back completely. Perhaps the printshop will pull me in to the extent of S1 and their adventures once they are together again. I do love the story. Just not secretly touching every stone I see anymore.
Thanks for the advice Sassanach. Yep, I feel the same way. I've never been able to feel their deep bond since S1, and I agree S3 is turning out wonderfully (compared to S2), but the longer they are apart and the more the story pulls them away from each other (without reinforcing their love connection), the less excited I get for the print shop. This coming week could really be a breaking point for me there. That's not to say I'm done with the show!!! The production is great and there is a lot to love !
Holla lu yer, Murtagh is alive! Whew. Losing the wonderful camaraderie of the Highlander men, as each one met their untimely/timely deaths has been harder to watch on tv than it was to read. I had high hopes the writers might consider a story change for Murtagh, but was completely shocked for the reveal that he was sitting beside Jamie in prison. I don't even care how he got there!! I look forward to a new Band of Brothers in the future.
Ep 303: An ode to Sam Heughan...up close. A lot of the dialog was filmed single person, up close and I couldn't take my eyes off when Sam was on the screen. Dirty face, grungy hair, blue eyes, I'm leaning in trying to catch every word. When he kneels and all but asked LJG to execute him, when he finally says "Claire" for the first time and when he seethes the "take your hand off me or I will kill you" line, it was an A+ job well done, thank you very much Sam Heughan night for me. David Berry became LJG instantly.
I'm glad to be finally saying goodbye to Frank. Frank is a blip to me on Claire's life story. True the BJR connection was fantastical and led to so many, I can't believe that, type of moments. But if Claire lives to 100, Frank was a ways to a means.
A couple of things: RE: spoilers - Hurray- our Murthagh is back!! But was kind of irked at Ron D Moore for spilling the beans re: Murtagh in an interview the week before 303 aired. Wonder if he felt he needed to drop a hint because in the 1st scene w/M. wasn't clear it was him. (Jamie talking about C. as if to someone who didn't know her)
The scene w/Lord John and Jamie, where they share experiences of losing a beloved person: They share something deep, friend to friend, then Lord J puts a compassionate had on Jamie's. But then, wait for it, one finger strokes J's hand and BOOM - it turns into something very different, and J says 'take it off or I will kill you' GAWD - Sam just killed that scene!!!
(and btw, here is where we miss seeing the context of the reality of prison life, with men living so close to each other, for the lack of sheer body heat and human contact)
Love you guys, no matter how long you go on! I don't mind spoilers. At this point, I bet that the majority of listeners have also read most of the books.
I completely agree with Carol here that Jamie did not get that Lord John was anything other than grieving for a dear friend's loss. Mostly because he did not flinch or react poorly when John put his hand on Jamie at first. If Jamie had known, he would have jerked back as if from a hot poker! It wasn't until the stroking of his hand that he realized. For sure!
The Randall family did have dogs. I've been listening to Voyager on CD. As book readers know, C. goes back to Boston to decide if she should go back through the stones. She leaves Bree in Scotland to continue the search for JAMMF with Roger. Today I was listening to Claire going back to their house in Boston...describing how there wasn't much left to care for in the house with Bree having gone to university and their last dog Bozo had died a few years previously
Do you ever think that once Claire got back, she regretted what lengths she went to in the past to protect Franks existence? Especially knowing what a jerk he was?
I have been following your recaps since Season One but have never commented. I feel a need to comment now because after viewing this episode I thought it was almost absolute perfection and was just blown away by it. Immediately after watching it I read comments on another site. The majority saying how disappointed they were with the episode?!? That is why I was so excited to watch your recap! You both said everything I was thinking. By the way, I do think Jamie was meant to understand that John Grey was gay. It spoke to his intelligence that he could accept this about John unless it was personally directed at himself.
When Jamie doesn't mention Claire's name when talking to Murtagh ,it makes it so much more powerful when he finally reveals the name to Lord John Grey. I have to agree with Carol on Jamie not being aware of his homosexuality. The conversation would have ended much sooner if he only had the slightest suspicion. Men mourn fallen close friends, but Hal was embarrassed because he was just a little too emotional and therefore took him away before he would embarrass himself in front of his subordinates. He is after all an officer who should not display such weakness. That is my take on the situation. I do agree with another listener above, the make up on David Berry was a little too white and I was also thinking to myself that he looked like an extremely handsome vampire. Super episode. Always takes me several viewings to fully appreciate it. First viewing is always clouded by the knowledge of the book. I am fairly new to this site and this my 3rd video I watched. I do love Carol's annoyance with Frank who is pretty much whining through 18 years of marriage. Will tune in again next week. Great job Tracy and Carol and thanks for making me laugh out loud with you.
I'm new to your podcast and I'm really enjoying your lively banter! I look forward now to your reviews after each episode. Loved this episode. Happy to see that we'll be getting more Murtaugh. While I've enjoyed seeing more of Claire's life with Frank and Bree, I'm also happy that we're inching towards The Print Shoppe! Thanks T&C!
To top off my birthday: No husband, 3 yr old asleep & I'm plowing through a bottle of Zinfandel instead of white b/c it's 24 degrees where I live and watching the recap. In fact, I'll view all the recaps before I power watch the entire season on Starz' 7 day free trial to save money. Thank you for the entertainment until then. I llove how well crafted the episodes are that after reading these books for 20 years and watching the recaps they still intrigue me.
Ooooo Monday is now my favorite day...kids and husband all out of the house and I watch last nights episode and your review back to back! The best!! I'm finding myself having instant reactions and would love to just jump into your discussion 😄 Frank: the US thing...I think there are so many reasons to now be ready to leave. -his commitment and love for Bree is obvious, he's given 18 years to provide a stable home for her, knowing no doubt that she and Claire come as a package -the fresh start (America) obviously didnt turn out as he'd hoped, Claire never reconnected with him, so that sacrifice of his home country turned out to be a disappointment -and remember his PASSION for British history. Can you imagine trying to teach Americans about Scottish rebellions and the Revolutionary War from an English point of view? His job satisfaction was probably non-existent! Sadly Frank's time in this story is over...even being SOLIDLY team Jamie, I shed a tear along with Claire for what might have been. There...now I can turn your video back on. You're only at minute 36, haha And you're about to get to Murtaugh, sigh!
Oh ya...you asked about spoilers Having read the entire series several times, I love talking about how each episode relates to later storylines. I think most here are "book" people, at least I hope so.
Minute 80..hahaha I should just scribble notes and do one post. I think Jamie's understanding and reaction to LJ's "revelation" is neither shocking as he's been quite a man of the world., he saw things in France etc..to show is was more worldly wise to homosexuality. Also remember he talks about hearing rustlings in the prison at night and he didnt judge because he empathized with the need for human contact and touch.
Hi guys. Great job. I just laugh and laugh and so look forward to your recap and everyone's comments. I wish, though, that we could get over this spoiler thing. A lot of what is happening brings to mind a lot from later books and it is enjoyable to make connections. Especially about the change with Murtaugh. Just wonder what the Jocosta storyline will be etc. All of our group really appreciates your time and effort. We just love following your site. THANK YOU!
I really do appreciate all the hard work that goes into a production like Outlander. I am really enjoying S3 thus far. I can't get my head around one thing. When going through each episode before the final stamp of approval doesn't the OL team see what we see and adjust? For example, Jamie's cave hair and trimmed mustache, the lack of his suffering in prison and the cave, the express LJG love for Jamie...Yes they have to condense so much story into each episode, but it just seems so obvious to me. I am sure there are glitches I am unaware of. Can't wait for E4. It's going to be even better!!!
I would love to have a discussion openly comparing the books to the show. Is it ridiculous that I know the Newfoundland's name is Smokey and where he pops up (2x) in the books? I was pleasantly surprised that the show didn't zip through Claire and Jamie's years apart and have us at the print shop 30 minutes into the 1st episode. But if they took the time to tell the story, why didn't they tell THE story? I have always thought RDM was a Frank lover, but they sanitized him. In the books, Claire and Frank had a real marriage, worked together to raise Bree while Claire was becoming a doctor, and they were sexually intimate. He had many affairs that hurt and humiliated Claire, because there was no agreement. In the true story,Frank plans to rip Brew out of her senior year of high school and throw her in an English boarding school. He says straight out that he is doing this because he does not want her having sex with a black man like her mother, accusing Claire and Joe. He refers to Dr Joe's family as "those people". "Black people I suppose you mean?" Fires back Claire. I have read the opinion that the show overstated the racism and sexism of the time. I don't agree. I think they generalized the bigotry instead showing the direct impact on the characters. I wonder if the show will explore all the selfish and self centered things we learned about Frank in later books?
OMG I cannot AMEN this enough, Julia!! You said everything I've been thinking but am not articulate/eloquent/focused enough to express!!! SANITIZED!!! Exactly!! A non-book series friend called yesterday and said, "I felt bad for poor Frank; Claire was really a bitch to him." I had to have an IMMEDIATE talk with her and tell her that is NOT the way it was...and that I had no idea why the powers that be decided to completely change the Claire and Frank story/dynamic. It made NO sense to victimize Frank. Why?! And your comment about the racism being generalized instead of showing the impact on the characters...BRAVO!! THAT is what bothered me!! Why whitewash the characters? (aka FRANK) Situations being changed? Fine. I get it. Sometimes it's necessary for visual effect, etc. But to change the characters? Why even bother telling the story?!
YES! Totally Agree - Julia and Carol! I know they had a lot of material to cover in 3 episodes and I don't have much to criticize re: Jamie's Story but Frank and Claire - what the hooey? Frank was SO not the victim (Book Frank!).
I absolutely agree 100%!! This is something that has bothered me since the beginning of the tv series. "Pooooor Frank..." The books do such a great job of showing just how different Jaime and Frank are in terms of their personal character, as husbands, and as MEN. And I think the show falls short of this. Jaime would never have put up with Claire's nonsense (like the cup throwing (that probably would have been a turn on to Jaime, lol)) but he wouldn't have given up on her or their marriage either. Think of how understanding and respectful he was of her relationship with Frank. It was these differences that drew Claire to Jaime. Tv Frank seemed so victimized by Claire. I found myself feeling sorry for him when what I really wanted was to dislike him.
This is so well said. Yes! I absolutely agree. Though I do think, in the end, Frank still comes off looking pretty bad, just not AS bad as he does in the books. What really bothers me, is the way the show makes Frank's behavior Claire's fault; aka "Frank the victim ".
I have hated the show's whitewashing of Frank since the beginning, and no, I do NOT believe Claire and Frank would've stayed together had Claire never gone through the stones. Apart from the fact they hadn't spent enough time together since they married, once the war was finally over Frank took her on a "Let's explore MY genealogy" themed second honeymoon. Recall that when Claire brought up adoption, Frank was firmly against it, and didn't bother asking Claire about her feelings. I found his stance on this topic to be especially thoughtless considering that Claire herself is an orphan. Frank seems to be all about what HE wants. Also, apart from the implied doubt as to Frank's fidelity during the war, there's the scene where he gets embarrassed and annoyed when Claire gets burned on the tea kettle and curses in front of someone he wants to impress. There was zero concern from him over Claire's injury. Finally, there is a 12 yr age gap between them, and Claire was very young when she married Frank. Considering her nomadic childhood and her wartime experiences, I doubt life as Frank's little woman would have run smoothly - especially with no Bree as the glue to hold them together.
Book Frank is condescending, self-absorbed, cheating, selfish, hurtful, and a racist. Just because he agrees to take back a pregnant Claire, that doesn't make him a hero. He knows at this point that he's shooting blanks (I've always wondered what prompted him to get tested while Claire was gone), and this baby is his chance for a child, but he isn't kind about it by making it sound like he's doing it for the sake of appearances.
The show's version of Frank as the wronged victim and sainted martyr - especially while making Claire out to be the too cold and too busy bitch - annoys the fire out of me, and does an injustice to the books' characters. Of course, male writers and producers thinking they need to "fix" this story and create a love triangle where one didn't exist annoys me, too. But at least now, yay! St. Frank is dead! And there was much rejoicing! ;)
My concern, is that they are "whiting washing" Frank to the degree that it will be harder to tell which husband was truly the better choice for Claire. If the show is victimizing Frank, I have to say they are not showing Jamie's grief for his loss of Claire very well. In this episode, Jamie basically gets over Claire's loss and has closure. Claire, on the other hand, is still grieving after almost 20 years, "No amount of time exists." The next episode and future events (aka. Leghaire) are going to bring Jamie's feelings for Claire even more into question, leaving me wondering if I feel Frank was the better man! Which I never thought after reading the books. Ugh!
I always have lots of thoughts but usually don't comment but when you were discussing rewatching episodes I just had to post. I was viewing episode 1 again and then I went back to episode 1 of Season 1 mainly because I wanted to listen to the differences in the theme song this year. You know what I noticed? In the opening scenes with Claire and Frank this season and the first scenes you see of them in season 1 (when they are arriving in Inverness) Claire is wearing THE SAME OUTFIT. A blue wool coat, burgundy colored dress, a blue scarf that compliments both. Not the same scarf in both scenes but very close. That small little detail really tells a lot! I could go on about that but check it out for yourself!
I am hoping the thing with Leoghaire will show him having problems bc his heart is still with Claire. If not I will be very upset. That's why I feel they should have shown flashbacks of good times or endearing times with Jamie. After S2 and the way it pulled us away from their deep feelings for each other it's a miracle if any non book reader believes in the intensity of their feelings for each other.
I completely agree, Sassenach, but my problem with Jamie is that he chooses to marry Leoghaire in the first place. That alone questions his love for Claire, and in the show, he knows Leoghaire tried to have Claire burned at the stake. He saw she standing in front of Claire as she was being whipped, sneering and saying, "I will dance on your ashes." And he married Leoghaire knowing this?? How in the world can the show write this ok?? I just don't see how they can. I don't see how anyone will be able to believe in Jamie's love after episode 308.
Yes to all and... it was so rediculous in the book that Claire never tells him. They never talk about it?? The show having Claire send Jamie over to her to thank her was also a weak attempt to create a way for him to marry her regardless. Really the book and the show did a poor job of this storyline.
Yes it was. A ridiculous plot line, made worse by the show writers. What I wonder is, since the show doesn't write or establish the love story likes its written in the books, do non-book viewers feel as intensely for J/C's love? And if not, does this time of separation, and Jamie's actions, not upset them as much as it does for those who have read the books? Just wonder...
Thank you, thank you, thank you. God,I love you guys. I am a big fan of MOP now. I literally died laughing when you pulled Eggo waffles out the fridge and your commentary on Claire's "Candy" line. New listener since season 3 and I will catch up with your prior videos. Love the DG books, reading DIA now. I am a total Outlander psycho freak lunatic now. Best part is that I am moving to Scotland with my family in a month, my husband is going to go school there. Yeah!!!
ReplyDeleteHave read all of the books (more than once actually) and love when you all compare the book and the show. Should just warn viewers that book spoilers may be discussed.
Thanks Lisa! :)
DeleteI haven't watched your recap yet but I really liked E3. They are staying so close to the book I can remember reading some of the passages they say. David Berry is excellent but maybe a little too much white powder. He looks like a very handsome vampire. Jamie's time in prison needed a bit more sadness/suffering. Being pushed around by guards didn't seem like enough. I don't like seeing him like that but his real personality shone through thanks to Sam. Loved seeing Murtogh again and maybe again in the colonies? Jamie talking about Claire was a tearjerker. Claire's situation with Frank always seemed unrealistic to me. Could have been the times and less freedom for women but why stay together. They could have worked things out with the divorce. Claire felt very fake like she wasn't being herself and I know she wasn't. Sad and a lot of guilt for Claire at Franks death. We know she'll carry that with her. We're getting to the best parts and then the best part. Love this story so much.
ReplyDeleteHandsome vampire!! So funny...made me laugh! (He did a bit didn't he)
DeleteSO funny, Sassenach. I never put that together in my head. David Berry could have been Brad Pitt's brother in Interview with a Vampire! LOL!
DeleteTOTALLY agree about us not seeing Jamie suffer enough (for my liking, at least.) After all these years, the thing that can still make me cry when I hear a song on the radio is the thought of Jamie lying alone and cold on the floor at Ardsmuir. I didn't feel that here. Not complaining; just saying. 👍🏼
Also I cried a bit and never did that in S2. I was just disgusted watching Outlander during S2. Imposter personalities playing J&C. Yayyy their back😊
ReplyDeleteAgree! S2 disappointing but J&C back! Willie, and Jamie leaving him, made me cry. #teamjamie
DeleteJamie is speaking French - The name of the sauce on the peasant was Vin de Bourgogne. When I cannot understand the dialog (learned this watching British TV), I turn the Closed Caption on and get the translation.
ReplyDeleteSmart, smart, SMART! I have to do that!!!
DeleteHi Ladies, Love watching your videos and look forward to hearing what you have to say about the show. It makes me feel as if I'm dissecting each episode right there with you.
ReplyDeleteI was wondering what the red wine sauce line was as well. I believe Jamie said the wine sauce was "Vin de Bourgogne", which made me think of episode 302 where Fergus says he prefers french wine to whiskey. It also reminded me of Jamie and Claire's times in France...I wonder if that's what brought a smile to Jamie's face when he tasted it. I believe Lord John chuckled because he did not know if that was indeed the red wine used in the sauce and at that moment he realized this 'Prisoner" is actually a well educated man with exquisite taste.
I could be mistaken and wouldn't be surprised if my ears misheard that line, so I may be way off. Would love to know what others thought of that line.
Again, Thanks for doing what you do! I really enjoy watching you both!
~Gina
This from France: You're absolutely right, it was "vin de Bourgogne" (repeated to Murtagh & Co.).
DeleteAlso remember Jamie was a wine merchant replacing his uncle Jared in Paris!
You are VERY welcome, Gina! :) And thanks for the info about the wine!
DeleteI have NOT read all the books, just Outlander the first. Please be careful before spoilers! Please?!
ReplyDeleteWe try, Patricia. I promise! ❤️(So topical, I JUST found one of my posts from 2009 last night...and I was saying that I avoided the Ladies of Lallybroch's site because of spoilers!)
DeleteVin de Bourgogne is Burgandy, dry red wine. I have a killer recipe for a beef gravy made with beef broth, dry red wine, tomato paste, bacon and roasted shallots. It's to die for!
DeleteOooh YUM, Anon! Share away! :)
DeleteBEEF TENDERLOIN WITH ROASTED SHALLOTS, BACON AND PORT
DeletePour a full-bodied red wine, such as a Bordeaux, Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon.
1 1/2 pounds large shallots (about 24), halved lengthwise, peeled
3 tablespoons olive oil
6 cups canned beef broth
1 1/2 cups tawny Port
1 tablespoon tomato paste
2 3- to 3 1/4-pound beef tenderloins (large ends), trimmed
2 teaspoons dried thyme
7 bacon slices, chopped
6 tablespoons (3/4 stick) butter
1 1/2 tablespoons all purpose flour
Position rack in center of oven and preheat to 375°F . In 9-inch-diameter pie pan, toss shallots with oil to coat. Season with salt and pepper. Roast until shallots are deep brown and very tender, stirring occasionally, about 30 minutes.
Boil broth and Port in large saucepan until reduced to 3 3/4 cups, about 30 minutes. Whisk in tomato paste. (Shallots and broth mixture can be made 1 day ahead. Cover separately; chill.)
Pat beef dry; sprinkle with thyme, salt and pepper. In large roasting pan set over medium heat, sauté bacon until golden, about 4 minutes. Using slotted spoon, transfer bacon to paper towels. Add beef to pan; brown on all sides over medium-high heat, about 7 minutes. Transfer pan to oven; roast beef until meat thermometer inserted into center registers 125°F for medium-rare, about 45 minutes. Transfer beef to platter. Tent loosely with foil.
Spoon fat off top of pan drippings in roasting pan. Place roasting pan over high heat. Add broth mixture and bring to boil, scraping up any browned bits. Transfer to medium saucepan; bring to simmer. Mix 3 tablespoons butter and flour in small bowl to form smooth paste; whisk into broth mixture and simmer until sauce thickens, about 2 minutes. Whisk in 3 tablespoons butter. Stir in roasted shallots and reserved bacon. Season sauce with salt and pepper. Cut beef into 1/2-inch-thick slices. Spoon some sauce over. Pass remaining sauce.
Note: Tawny port is the listed ingredient (and my personal preference) but any dry red does well. This sauce/gravy is simply divine over potatoes mashed with butter and sour cream.
I think if Claire had never gone through the stones, etc etc, she eventually would have worked as a nurse.
ReplyDeleteFrank not attending the graduation dinner just seemed so contrived to me. I saw it as a stupid shortcut way to show that Claire did graduate, Bree favored Frank over Claire, that Frank was a jerk and that he had a girlfriend. But it was forgivable because Voyager is a very long book. ��
Re: the LJG scene when he put his hand on Jamie's, I thought the look on Sam's face was absolutely Emmy-worthy. Sam killed it this episode! For me he "became" JAMMF of the later books this episode.
I was cracking up when y'all were talking about the botched big reveal of Murtaugh because I did the same exact thing!!! ��������. "Is that Murtaugh?!?! Oh, wait, I guess not. Wait!! Is IS!! Or is it??" ��
Can't wait for next week!!
~Sadie G.
"he "became" JAMMF of the later books this episode." 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 YES!! GREAT point!!!
DeleteHey Frank, let go my Eggo! Cheerio old sport...you'll be missed. Glad to see Murtagh back.
ReplyDeleteHi Carol and Tracy!
ReplyDeleteOverall, loved this episode (and your live tweets/recaps). Btw, have read all the main books, but not all of the short stories/novellas yet. I don't mind spoilers though.
About Murtagh, totally agree with you that his reveal was a bit confusing. Is it just me or does he look kinda like Rasputin from Disney Anastasia?
About Frank and med school graduation, Book Frank was supportive of the med school thing to the point where he talked Claire out of dropping out that time Bree got in an accident. So, I thought it was out of character for him to miss the celebratory dinner too.
About Frank and the Eggo, I think it's more like what Tracy said. I'm Chinese by blood, but living in the Philippines. I was born here, but my ancestors and older relatives came over from China during the 50s - 70s. They're not ungrateful that the Philippines gave them a home, decent living and a community to belong to, but they certainly see China as their homeland and identify with Chinese culture (food, ideologies, etc) more. At the same time, they want to impart to us younger generation the Chinese culture and heritage we have so they teach us the language, traditions etc. So, I saw Frank's English breakfast thing as about culture preservation rather than being a snob.
Until next week!
"Is it just me or does he look kinda like Rasputin from Disney Anastasia?" LOLOL I'll have to look that one up!
DeleteGREAT points about your Chinese family living in the Philippines. I think the Millie snobbery may have pushed me over the edge with Frank, though. He just seemed to have a general disdain for all things American.
Hi guys. This is my first comment here, but I've been watching and loving your recaps for a while. I haven't read all the books yet (I'm tracking with Voyager pretty much where the current season is at), and I would be so sad to be in the 1% of non-series-completers who can't watch your recaps anymore. :( So I'm just putting in my vote that I would appreciate some sort of spoiler alert if you discuss major plot points from later books in the series.
ReplyDeleteKeep up the good work! It's so great that you two sisters share an equal love for the series. I had no idea until today's recap that the whole thing started accidentally with an un-private youtube video! Too funny! (The fact that you're siblings reminds me of the vlog series my kids used to watch between the author John Green [Fault in Our Stars] and his brother Hank! It's a great concept for drawing viewers!)
Just my two cents here: I approach your recaps already having A) read Voyager and B) watched the episode. If people haven't watched the show they shouldn't be watching a "recap." So I wouldn't be worried about spoilers as long as it's confined to what happened in that ep. People should assume a discussion will contain spoilers.
ReplyDeleteEXACTLY! Well said. Thank you. ;)
DeleteI agree 100%. I'm only hoping for a spoiler alert for other books in the series beyond Voyager. I too have already watched the show when I come here for the recap.
DeleteAgree!
DeleteAgree
DeleteAgree. Why dictate no spoilers. Don't read or view until you watch the series. Of course they're spoilers.
DeleteFrank only thought he could come to America and become a part of it. If you look back to season 1--he was reading his notes when they were first in their bedroom and SHE had to "make a move" on him. He treats her like a young student who of course will do HIS will. He hasnt changed at all---CLAIRE is the one who has grown up and changed. He hardly acted interested in her on their second honeymoon--would rather be with Dr S and So or the Reverend!! The script that has us hating him in this eps. is meant to say "this is WHY Claire has come to hate him. Claire is no different than we.
ReplyDeleteI thought it was just his Englishness. A kind of quiet reserved sexy. He seemed drawn to Claire's bubbly personality.
DeleteNot to mention, as Claire explained, he was still dealing with his own post-war PTSD in S1E01.
DeleteOMG! Everyone is raped, everyone has PTSD, arrested, beaten etc..... but we always have JAMMF. His body, eyes, intelligence, humor, body, eyes, body........
DeleteYes... I have read all the books. I know it would be hard not to talk ahead! 🙂 So, you guys will have to decide what to do because from the comments above some people have not read the books. And the people should! The books are great!!!
ReplyDeleteI actually cried when Claire was saying goodbye to Frank. Because now, she has no one to live and care for her. She has lost a lot. Her only consolation is she still has Bree. However, I never understood since Bree was Jamie's child why she wasn't more protective of her and why she didn't devote all her time and energy to her? Maybe Bree was a painful reminder of what she lost and she simply distant herself from the pain unconsciously. Sometimes, in real life, we all do that without realizing. The TV show is doing a great job of showing us the lost everyone felt. Kudos to the writers and all the actors!!!
I think it's because Claire's calling for medicine and healing is incredibly central to her being. It's VERY important to her. That fact is glossed over a bit in the show, I think. It is much more obvious in the books. She loves Bree to death, but it takes time to be a doctor!
DeleteI think think the show made it very clear that Claire had a need to be "a part of something bigger than herself". That's why she went to med school.
DeleteYou can love a child and be devoted to the child without losing your own identity and spending all your time controlling every minute of their life
DeleteMed school and residency is intense. Doesn't leave much time for sleep much less relationships.
DeleteHi Ladies,
ReplyDeleteI'm enjoying the season so far. Episode 3 was good, if not a bit slow, but as a lonnnggg time reader, I know they are setting the stage. I havenea had a chance to watch your reviews, but I always wathc the show with closed captioning on. There's no way I'd be able to understand anything w/o it! The Murtagh reveal felt a little odd..at first I though Jamie was hearing his voice in his head! I love that they kept him in the show as his departure from the books always felt at loose ends. It was just poof!, he's gone and forgotten. Their parting was sad, but I like where I think it's heading.
My favorite of Season 3 episodes so far. We're getting closer! They covered a lot this episode, but I was happy for it. Count me in the, "Is that Murtagh? It is Murtagh. I think it's Murtagh." group. I am totally ok with this version of Murtagh. ;) I don't begrudge Frank his "Candy", truthfully, but to invite her to his home (Claire's home!). Tacky. Anyway, another great recap.
ReplyDeleteOk
ReplyDeleteThis is long, and I'm sorry, I just started writing and couldn't stop. Please don't feel obligated to read. I respect and love all the various thoughts and opinions about Outlander. I feel like I often see things differently than other fans, and I hope I don't upset anyone with my thoughts. Many times I learn from other's comments, and it allows me to see things in a way I hadn't before. Love you guys!!! And thank you so much for doing this!!
Outlander
Episode 303
“All Debts Paid”
Ok, where to begin..... Out of the three episodes we’ve had so far this season, 303 is my least favorite. I think it really just boils down to the writing. This week’s show seemed choppy and disjointed to me, with dialogue that didn’t flow well; leaving me saying, “Wait what, what just happened?”.
The most exciting part of the story, this week, was also the biggest letdown.....MURTAGH IS ALIVE!!! Wait, what?? Murtagh is alive, and we get no back story on how he came to be at Ardsmuir prison?? Nothing on how Jamie was reunited with his beloved godfather, after thinking him dead??? This is the biggest change to the original storyline to date, and they treat it like nothing? Wow!! Who’s idea was that?? Biggest underwhelming reveal to date. That being said, I was extremely happy to see Murtagh will be taking over one of the Ardsmuir prisoners’ roles in the future storyline, most likely Duncan Innes? This was a great choice made by the writers. Continuing that relationship, which has such great chemistry between all of them, will be so much more rewarding in the future. Can you just imagine Murtagh’s reunion with Claire, or him meeting Bree? I just hope they handle it better than his reveal with Jamie in prison.
Oops!! ***SPIOLERS AHEAD*** in my comments. Yes, I have read all the books:)
DeleteLord John Gray. Ok, I like John’s character, I really do, but I do not have an overwhelming affection for him and his relationship with Jamie, like many others. I do think David Berry makes for a very good Lord John Gray, and was blown away at how much he looks like his younger self from last season! How does casting do that??!! I didn’t think the progression of his romantic feelings and affections for Jamie was well developed? I did not pick up on the fact that John’s feelings for Jamie had become of a romantic nature until all of a sudden John is stroking Jamie’s hand. It was one of those, “Wait, when did that happen?” moments. Now, in fairness, they only had one episode to establish this complicated relationship, and that was really difficult to do. Honestly though, I was more interested in Jamie’s and Murtagh’s scene time together, than I was in John’s and Jamie’s. I just didn’t feel the connection and chemistry between them that we get in the books (Honestly, I just didn’t find the Ardsmuir storyline very interesting at all). Maybe I will feel differently after watching next week, since Helswater develops Jamie’s and John’s connection even more; that is, if I can even stomach watching next week...
ReplyDeleteSomething I’m beginning to feel, after watching these first three episodes, is the fact that I like and relate to Claire’s storyline more than Jamie’s. I think it’s better developed and written. It takes more time establishing Claire’s emotional journey during these years of separation, and the deterioration of her marriage to Frank over the fact that she has never been able to get over her love and loss of Jamie. It has a very distinctive arc, that has allowed viewers time to really process Frank’s and Claire’s emotional journey. I really feel Claire’s loss and pain, but I can’t really say that about Jamie.
Every week, thus far, we have Jamie in a different setting, interacting with a whole set of new characters. I feel his emotional journey is being overwhelmed by this constantly changing storyline; where as Claire’s story remains constant, and the focus is more on just her relationship with Frank, and how Jamie is always on her mind.
Also, as Claire’s story continues to reinforce her inability to let go of Jamie, I feel like Jamie’s story shows him moving on through the natural stages of grief: first, pain and sorrow; then, denial; and finally acceptance. In the beginning of the episode, Jamie still can’t stand talking about Claire (aka. scene with Murtagh); but by the end, he’s accepted that she is really gone, and gets over his desire to not live without her. Jamie can talk about Claire without pain, and he now has closure. Great...just in time for Helswater (eye roll).....
ReplyDeleteOn the other hand, Claire does not have closure, she can’t even talk about Jamie, Frank’s conditions.... Then there’s Claire’s line, “that amount of time doesn’t exist” says it all. Why can’t they give Jamie such a line??!! He has yet to say an endearing thing about Claire and his sorrow over losing her and their child! Where is my line!!!!! “Lord that she may be safe, she and the child.” That’s all that is needed to reinforce Jamie’s sadness over his lost for Claire, and his constance thought for their safety. Yet we don’t get it. If I wasn’t a book reader, with the knowledge of Jamie’s inner dialogue about how much he thinks and pines for Claire during this time, I wouldn’t feel his since of loss! This isn’t good. I think the writers feel Jamie’s silence speaks louder than words, but I have to disagree. I need more affirmation about his feelings for Claire.
Now, I have to sit through him conceiving another child with another woman, watching him form a relationship with his bastard son, and then grieve and feel guilt for their losses. What’s that going to do to Jamie’s lost love story with Claire??!! You know, the main storyline! I’ll tell you, it’s going to feel like losing Claire and Bree was just another sad chapter in Jamie’s miserable life. It will loose its agency and emotional weight, because Claire and Bree now just become another mother and child that Jamie grieves for. Now I know, Jamie doesn’t love Geneva in the book, but he does harbor a lot of guilt over her death.
The show is not doing a good job of reinforcing Jamie’s emotional grief for Claire, the way they are Claire’s for Jamie. It could potentially make their relationship seem lopsided moving forward, and the printshop seem insincere on Jamie’s part. Did he really miss Claire as much as Claire missed him? Was he celibate for 20 years, because he couldn’t move on from Claire?? Does he really feel Bree’s loss like he does his bastard son, Willie?? See, the whole Helswater storyline takes away the specialness of Claire and Jamie’s story for me.
It will be interesting to see how the show continues to handle this...I really don’t have much hope at this point. Not sure I’m going to watch next week, for fear it will completely ruin the printshop for me.
Jan, take a deep breath and keep watching. I agree we did not see Jamie suffering enough let alone pining over Claire. He was very sweet when he talked about her with Murtogh and told LJG her name. They did a fantastic job showing his love for her in S1. I'm surprised anyone will believe in his deep love for her after S2. S2 took me out of my obsession for Outlander and it hasn't come back. Don't get me wrong, I'm really enjoying these first 3 episodes of S3, LJG, and all the lines from the book. I even cried a bit in E3 of S3. I never cried in S2. I divorced myself of the series after Jamie's treatment of Claire well into E4 of S2. And I guess I will never come back completely. Perhaps the printshop will pull me in to the extent of S1 and their adventures once they are together again. I do love the story. Just not secretly touching every stone I see anymore.
DeleteThanks for the advice Sassanach. Yep, I feel the same way. I've never been able to feel their deep bond since S1, and I agree S3 is turning out wonderfully (compared to S2), but the longer they are apart and the more the story pulls them away from each other (without reinforcing their love connection), the less excited I get for the print shop. This coming week could really be a breaking point for me there. That's not to say I'm done with the show!!! The production is great and there is a lot to love !
DeleteHolla lu yer, Murtagh is alive! Whew. Losing the wonderful camaraderie of the Highlander men, as each one met their untimely/timely deaths has been harder to watch on tv than it was to read. I had high hopes the writers might consider a story change for Murtagh, but was completely shocked for the reveal that he was sitting beside Jamie in prison. I don't even care how he got there!! I look forward to a new Band of Brothers in the future.
ReplyDeleteEp 303: An ode to Sam Heughan...up close. A lot of the dialog was filmed single person, up close and I couldn't take my eyes off when Sam was on the screen. Dirty face, grungy hair, blue eyes, I'm leaning in trying to catch every word. When he kneels and all but asked LJG to execute him, when he finally says "Claire" for the first time and when he seethes the "take your hand off me or I will kill you" line, it was an A+ job well done, thank you very much Sam Heughan night for me. David Berry became LJG instantly.
I'm glad to be finally saying goodbye to Frank. Frank is a blip to me on Claire's life story. True the BJR connection was fantastical and led to so many, I can't believe that, type of moments. But if Claire lives to 100, Frank was a ways to a means.
oops, didn't mean to be Unknown
DeleteA couple of things:
ReplyDeleteRE: spoilers - Hurray- our Murthagh is back!! But was kind of irked at Ron D Moore for spilling the beans re: Murtagh in an interview the week before 303 aired. Wonder if he felt he needed to drop a hint because in the 1st scene w/M. wasn't clear it was him. (Jamie talking about C. as if to someone who didn't know her)
The scene w/Lord John and Jamie, where they share experiences of losing a beloved person: They share something deep, friend to friend, then Lord J puts a compassionate had on Jamie's. But then, wait for it, one finger strokes J's hand and BOOM - it turns into something very different, and J says 'take it off or I will kill you' GAWD - Sam just killed that scene!!!
(and btw, here is where we miss seeing the context of the reality of prison life, with men living so close to each other, for the lack of sheer body heat and human contact)
Love you guys, no matter how long you go on! I don't mind spoilers. At this point, I bet that the majority of listeners have also read most of the books.
I completely agree with Carol here that Jamie did not get that Lord John was anything other than grieving for a dear friend's loss. Mostly because he did not flinch or react poorly when John put his hand on Jamie at first. If Jamie had known, he would have jerked back as if from a hot poker! It wasn't until the stroking of his hand that he realized. For sure!
DeleteAlso with Carol on this...
DeleteI think the reason we know the Randalls have a dog is that there is a photo of Brianna with the dog... won't say more.
ReplyDeleteYes. I thought about that too😊😊😊😊
DeleteThe Randall family did have dogs. I've been listening to Voyager on CD. As book readers know, C. goes back to Boston to decide if she should go back through the stones. She leaves Bree in Scotland to continue the search for JAMMF with Roger. Today I was listening to Claire going back to their house in Boston...describing how there wasn't much left to care for in the house with Bree having gone to university and their last dog Bozo had died a few years previously
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteDo you ever think that once Claire got back, she regretted what lengths she went to in the past to protect Franks existence? Especially knowing what a jerk he was?
ReplyDeleteHaHaHaHa ;)
DeleteI have been following your recaps since Season One but have never commented. I feel a need to comment now because after viewing this episode I thought it was almost absolute perfection and was just blown away by it. Immediately after watching it I read comments on another site. The majority saying how disappointed they were with the episode?!? That is why I was so excited to watch your recap! You both said everything I was thinking. By the way, I do think Jamie was meant to understand that John Grey was gay. It spoke to his intelligence that he could accept this about John unless it was personally directed at himself.
ReplyDeleteTotally agree. Jamie certainly caught the vibes John was throwing out about his sexuality, but he didn't feel threatened until that thumb rub.
DeleteDid not watch the whole podcast, but please tell me you talked about when Jamie said, "Take your hand off me, or I will kill you."
ReplyDeleteWhen Jamie doesn't mention Claire's name when talking to Murtagh ,it makes it so much more powerful when he finally reveals the name to Lord John Grey. I have to agree with Carol on Jamie not being aware of his homosexuality. The conversation would have ended much sooner if he only had the slightest suspicion. Men mourn fallen close friends, but Hal was embarrassed because he was just a little too emotional and therefore took him away before he would embarrass himself in front of his subordinates. He is after all an officer who should not display such weakness. That is my take on the situation. I do agree with another listener above, the make up on David Berry was a little too white and I was also thinking to myself that he looked like an extremely handsome vampire.
ReplyDeleteSuper episode. Always takes me several viewings to fully appreciate it. First viewing is always clouded by the knowledge of the book. I am fairly new to this site and this my 3rd video I watched. I do love Carol's annoyance with Frank who is pretty much whining through 18 years of marriage. Will tune in again next week. Great job Tracy and Carol and thanks for making me laugh out loud with you.
I'm new to your podcast and I'm really enjoying your lively banter! I look forward now to your reviews after each episode. Loved this episode. Happy to see that we'll be getting more Murtaugh. While I've enjoyed seeing more of Claire's life with Frank and Bree, I'm also happy that we're inching towards The Print Shoppe! Thanks T&C!
ReplyDeleteTo top off my birthday: No husband, 3 yr old asleep & I'm plowing through a bottle of Zinfandel instead of white b/c it's 24 degrees where I live and watching the recap. In fact, I'll view all the recaps before I power watch the entire season on Starz' 7 day free trial to save money. Thank you for the entertainment until then. I llove how well crafted the episodes are that after reading these books for 20 years and watching the recaps they still intrigue me.
ReplyDeleteYes, Claire always had Jamie in her mind. However,it was Frank that kept always bringing him up and throwing his presence at Claire.
ReplyDeleteYes, Claire always had Jamie in her mind. However,it was Frank that kept always bringing him up and throwing his presence at Claire.
ReplyDeleteGreat news for Outlander!!! Ratings went way up this week; over 1.5 mil viewers! Yah!
ReplyDeleteOoooo Monday is now my favorite day...kids and husband all out of the house and I watch last nights episode and your review back to back! The best!!
ReplyDeleteI'm finding myself having instant reactions and would love to just jump into your discussion 😄
Frank: the US thing...I think there are so many reasons to now be ready to leave.
-his commitment and love for Bree is obvious, he's given 18 years to provide a stable home for her, knowing no doubt that she and Claire come as a package
-the fresh start (America) obviously didnt turn out as he'd hoped, Claire never reconnected with him, so that sacrifice of his home country turned out to be a disappointment
-and remember his PASSION for British history. Can you imagine trying to teach Americans about Scottish rebellions and the Revolutionary War from an English point of view? His job satisfaction was probably non-existent!
Sadly Frank's time in this story is over...even being SOLIDLY team Jamie, I shed a tear along with Claire for what might have been.
There...now I can turn your video back on. You're only at minute 36, haha
And you're about to get to Murtaugh, sigh!
Oh ya...you asked about spoilers
ReplyDeleteHaving read the entire series several times, I love talking about how each episode relates to later storylines.
I think most here are "book" people, at least I hope so.
Minute 80..hahaha
ReplyDeleteI should just scribble notes and do one post.
I think Jamie's understanding and reaction to LJ's "revelation" is neither shocking as he's been quite a man of the world., he saw things in France etc..to show is was more worldly wise to homosexuality. Also remember he talks about hearing rustlings in the prison at night and he didnt judge because he empathized with the need for human contact and touch.
Hi guys. Great job. I just laugh and laugh and so look forward to your recap and everyone's comments. I wish, though, that we could get over this spoiler thing. A lot of what is happening brings to mind a lot from later books and it is enjoyable to make connections. Especially about the change with Murtaugh. Just wonder what the Jocosta storyline will be etc. All of our group really appreciates your time and effort. We just love following your site. THANK YOU!
ReplyDeleteI really do appreciate all the hard work that goes into a production like Outlander. I am really enjoying S3 thus far. I can't get my head around one thing. When going through each episode before the final stamp of approval doesn't the OL team see what we see and adjust? For example, Jamie's cave hair and trimmed mustache, the lack of his suffering in prison and the cave, the express LJG love for Jamie...Yes they have to condense so much story into each episode, but it just seems so obvious to me. I am sure there are glitches I am unaware of. Can't wait for E4. It's going to be even better!!!
ReplyDeleteI would love to have a discussion openly comparing the books to the show.
ReplyDeleteIs it ridiculous that I know the Newfoundland's name is Smokey and where he pops up (2x) in the books?
I was pleasantly surprised that the show didn't zip through Claire and Jamie's years apart and have us at the print shop 30 minutes into the 1st episode.
But if they took the time to tell the story, why didn't they tell THE story?
I have always thought RDM was a Frank lover, but they sanitized him.
In the books, Claire and Frank had a real marriage, worked together to raise Bree while Claire was becoming a doctor, and they were sexually intimate. He had many affairs that hurt and humiliated Claire, because there was no agreement.
In the true story,Frank plans to rip Brew out of her senior year of high school and throw her in an English boarding school. He says straight out that he is doing this because he does not want her having sex with a black man like her mother, accusing Claire and Joe. He refers to Dr Joe's family as "those people". "Black people I suppose you mean?" Fires back Claire.
I have read the opinion that the show overstated the racism and sexism of the time. I don't agree. I think they generalized the bigotry instead showing the direct impact on the characters.
I wonder if the show will explore all the selfish and self centered things we learned about Frank in later books?
OMG I cannot AMEN this enough, Julia!! You said everything I've been thinking but am not articulate/eloquent/focused enough to express!!! SANITIZED!!! Exactly!! A non-book series friend called yesterday and said, "I felt bad for poor Frank; Claire was really a bitch to him." I had to have an IMMEDIATE talk with her and tell her that is NOT the way it was...and that I had no idea why the powers that be decided to completely change the Claire and Frank story/dynamic. It made NO sense to victimize Frank. Why?! And your comment about the racism being generalized instead of showing the impact on the characters...BRAVO!! THAT is what bothered me!! Why whitewash the characters? (aka FRANK) Situations being changed? Fine. I get it. Sometimes it's necessary for visual effect, etc. But to change the characters? Why even bother telling the story?!
DeleteI had to come today and read the newer posts ...
DeleteYES! Totally Agree - Julia and Carol! I know they had a lot of material to cover in 3 episodes and I don't have much to criticize re: Jamie's Story but Frank and Claire - what the hooey? Frank was SO not the victim (Book Frank!).
I absolutely agree 100%!! This is something that has bothered me since the beginning of the tv series. "Pooooor Frank..." The books do such a great job of showing just how different Jaime and Frank are in terms of their personal character, as husbands, and as MEN. And I think the show falls short of this. Jaime would never have put up with Claire's nonsense (like the cup throwing (that probably would have been a turn on to Jaime, lol)) but he wouldn't have given up on her or their marriage either. Think of how understanding and respectful he was of her relationship with Frank. It was these differences that drew Claire to Jaime. Tv Frank seemed so victimized by Claire. I found myself feeling sorry for him when what I really wanted was to dislike him.
DeleteThis is so well said. Yes! I absolutely agree. Though I do think, in the end, Frank still comes off looking pretty bad, just not AS bad as he does in the books. What really bothers me, is the way the show makes Frank's behavior Claire's fault; aka "Frank the victim ".
DeleteI have hated the show's whitewashing of Frank since the beginning, and no, I do NOT believe Claire and Frank would've stayed together had Claire never gone through the stones. Apart from the fact they hadn't spent enough time together since they married, once the war was finally over Frank took her on a "Let's explore MY genealogy" themed second honeymoon. Recall that when Claire brought up adoption, Frank was firmly against it, and didn't bother asking Claire about her feelings. I found his stance on this topic to be especially thoughtless considering that Claire herself is an orphan. Frank seems to be all about what HE wants. Also, apart from the implied doubt as to Frank's fidelity during the war, there's the scene where he gets embarrassed and annoyed when Claire gets burned on the tea kettle and curses in front of someone he wants to impress. There was zero concern from him over Claire's injury. Finally, there is a 12 yr age gap between them, and Claire was very young when she married Frank. Considering her nomadic childhood and her wartime experiences, I doubt life as Frank's little woman would have run smoothly - especially with no Bree as the glue to hold them together.
DeleteBook Frank is condescending, self-absorbed, cheating, selfish, hurtful, and a racist. Just because he agrees to take back a pregnant Claire, that doesn't make him a hero. He knows at this point that he's shooting blanks (I've always wondered what prompted him to get tested while Claire was gone), and this baby is his chance for a child, but he isn't kind about it by making it sound like he's doing it for the sake of appearances.
The show's version of Frank as the wronged victim and sainted martyr - especially while making Claire out to be the too cold and too busy bitch - annoys the fire out of me, and does an injustice to the books' characters. Of course, male writers and producers thinking they need to "fix" this story and create a love triangle where one didn't exist annoys me, too. But at least now, yay! St. Frank is dead! And there was much rejoicing! ;)
Dolittle
Sorry so late to the party but THIS.
DeleteDolittle, you had me at "let's explore MY genealogy" themed second honeymoon. 😂 SO true!!! Loved this whole comment!!
DeleteThey could have shown how difficult was for a working mother to find reliable after school care in the 1950s
ReplyDeleteMy concern, is that they are "whiting washing" Frank to the degree that it will be harder to tell which husband was truly the better choice for Claire. If the show is victimizing Frank, I have to say they are not showing Jamie's grief for his loss of Claire very well. In this episode, Jamie basically gets over Claire's loss and has closure. Claire, on the other hand, is still grieving after almost 20 years, "No amount of time exists." The next episode and future events (aka. Leghaire) are going to bring Jamie's feelings for Claire even more into question, leaving me wondering if I feel Frank was the better man! Which I never thought after reading the books. Ugh!
ReplyDeleteamen
DeleteI always have lots of thoughts but usually don't comment but when you were discussing rewatching episodes I just had to post. I was viewing episode 1 again and then I went back to episode 1 of Season 1 mainly because I wanted to listen to the differences in the theme song this year. You know what I noticed? In the opening scenes with Claire and Frank this season and the first scenes you see of them in season 1 (when they are arriving in Inverness) Claire is wearing THE SAME OUTFIT. A blue wool coat, burgundy colored dress, a blue scarf that compliments both. Not the same scarf in both scenes but very close. That small little detail really tells a lot! I could go on about that but check it out for yourself!
ReplyDeleteI am hoping the thing with Leoghaire will show him having problems bc his heart is still with Claire. If not I will be very upset. That's why I feel they should have shown flashbacks of good times or endearing times with Jamie. After S2 and the way it pulled us away from their deep feelings for each other it's a miracle if any non book reader believes in the intensity of their feelings for each other.
ReplyDeleteI completely agree, Sassenach, but my problem with Jamie is that he chooses to marry Leoghaire in the first place. That alone questions his love for Claire, and in the show, he knows Leoghaire tried to have Claire burned at the stake. He saw she standing in front of Claire as she was being whipped, sneering and saying, "I will dance on your ashes." And he married Leoghaire knowing this?? How in the world can the show write this ok?? I just don't see how they can. I don't see how anyone will be able to believe in Jamie's love after episode 308.
DeleteYes to all and... it was so rediculous in the book that Claire never tells him. They never talk about it?? The show having Claire send Jamie over to her to thank her was also a weak attempt to create a way for him to marry her regardless. Really the book and the show did a poor job of this storyline.
ReplyDeleteYes it was. A ridiculous plot line, made worse by the show writers. What I wonder is, since the show doesn't write or establish the love story likes its written in the books, do non-book viewers feel as intensely for J/C's love? And if not, does this time of separation, and Jamie's actions, not upset them as much as it does for those who have read the books? Just wonder...
DeleteI just stopped laughing about Andy Dufresne.
ReplyDeleteit is a red wine sauce called a`la bourguignon
ReplyDeleteit is a red wine sauce called a`la bourguignon
ReplyDeleteThank you, thank you, thank you. God,I love you guys. I am a big fan of MOP now. I literally died laughing when you pulled Eggo waffles out the fridge and your commentary on Claire's "Candy" line. New listener since season 3 and I will catch up with your prior videos. Love the DG books, reading DIA now. I am a total Outlander psycho freak lunatic now. Best part is that I am moving to Scotland with my family in a month, my husband is going to go school there. Yeah!!!
ReplyDeleteMoving to Scotland?! You lucky girl! Glad you found DG's books...and MOP. Both are addictive. ;)
DeleteI agree abouot the knitwear. And harvest gold/mustard is hard to wear in a sweater or a kitchen.
ReplyDelete