Hey ladies! OMG after you guys said that thing about Kristen Stewart on Jimmy Kimmel I went right to You Tube and watched and it was so sweet the way her leg was shaking her whole body and R Patz turned to her and touched his leg to hers and he even whispered something to her. I miss those days lol! Anyway if I was transported back in time and put on a plantation with 100 slaves and a nasty guy with a whip I would be so freaked out and sickened that I would have to really try not to say anything but I doubt I could hold my tongue. I though Claire did a great job at first just being quiet and trying to hold her tongue until Jocasta pushed her to talk. I am team Claire all the way on this one.
Your videos cap off each episode for me every week! I love them! Your comments about Ian are right on! My son and I discussed that very issue at the end of the episode and the arc of the character, this season is something I am really looking forward to. Right now, I think John Bell is portraying Ian as his own personality and true acting will emerge as Ian grows and goes through his changes. I feel like the writer(s) of this episode demeaned both the characters of Claire and Jamie. This is the very first time I have disliked Claire and felt like they both should have been more aware than they were. It is also the first episode I have ever actively compared the book to the show. In the book, Jamie at least listened to Farquard Campbell and his aunt as to the law and how things were done. Claire was more adaptable and not as rudely rigid. As usual, you were both right on! Thank you!!!
-Rude and rigid, selfish and riteous...It was hard to keep track of all the ‘ugly Americans.’ Claire’s 1960’s morality unchecked by 1760’s context comes across as immaturity at best. And Jamie, who usually checks her with added perspective, (for the sake of the reader and viewer) played the lap dog rather than an enlightened man of his time (who wouldn’t be caught dead with those bangs.). -Loved Jocasta!
You guys need to watch this episode on the STARZ app. There’s a recap at the end by the producers and they explain they found the house on location in Scotland and added the porch, etc. to the outside. All the rooms were specifically built in the studio including the grand staircase. Absolutely incredible attention to detail. I’m loving the clothes and sets. Maybe the wigs not so much. 🙂
Don't you even think about cutting this short by "getting to the point"! We have about 24 people that watch together and we die laughing all the time and are not ready for it to end!
SHUT...UP!!!! You guys all watch together?!? OMG You just MADE OUR DAY!!!! That is excellent!! Send us a photo or video; we would love to show it to the Outlander masses! 😘
Yes we all do! Most of us just recently retired and stay up and watch you with libations and sleep in on Monday. We so look forward to your recap, it is hilarious. I guess we are all struggling with Jaime. It gets worse every season. We think so highly of Diana's work and it must be difficult for her to watch. We get the whole thing with show vs book thing, but honestly, for example all the time spent with Rufus and then cut other things or not include all of the special little things that Diana writes is just getting really frustrating. I know several people that have stopped watching, unfortunately. Remember Paoli Maggie is our fearless leader, by the way. She is really struggling this season and is usually the one to boost us all up and give things a chance. Usually we re-watch the episodes to make sure we did not miss anything. We have no desire to watch again. We think so highly of Diana's writing and this is just really off the mark. Carol, our thoughts are with you and your family and are so appreciative of you and Tracy's time and effort. You are the highlight of this year's season for sure! Believe me, we are always saying, no, not stopping yet!!
I’ve no interest to go back to rewatch the last couple seasons. Dropping starz. There’s other source material for the show they’re writing for Catriona. They have great casting and production values, but the writing is worse all the time. And they don’t care about the readers who trusted them with characters we’ve known for twenty years. Jamie’s character and the maturing relationship between he and Claire is why I read and watched. Before the Dr Quinn on steroids show wrecks the books for me, I’m going to peace-out and will look for Sam in something where his co-star can share the stage and story.
Boils down to 21st century social justice imposed on the storyline. With so much story to advance, why so much time on slavery and surgery? Slavery bad, but not solved in one episode. Claire's ability to use her 20th century medical skills to gather beneficial herbs to treat illness is true to DG and the character of the Claire we love.
Someone on your you tube channel made the comment that TV Claire is more 2018 than 1968 and I have to agree. Do the writers think the 'badass,' social-justice-warrior-at-the-expense-of-all-others mentality is what viewers need to see in a female lead these days? Tracey asked the super important question: WOULDN'T IT HAVE BEEN MORE INTERESTING IF JAMIE AND CLAIRE DISAGREED? YES!!! TV Jamie has been emasculated and it's sooo boring. Everywhere I turn the #metoo movement is invading entertainment. No one is creative anymore; no one is showing how human beings are nuanced with grey areas and can learn from each other. Instead, the female is always right—because she's female. Ugh.
Personally, having been married over 2 decades, even though it's been hard as hell sometimes because my husband and I are both strong-willed, stubborn and we see certain topics VERY differently... we are stronger because of our differences. We have grown more as individuals. Not saying that J & C differ on their views of slavery, but part of the intrigue of having 2 strong-willed people from DIFFERENT eras in time is to see how they handle these huge differences and how it shapes their relationship dynamic. That would be more realistic, and as Tracey suggested, far more interesting. Last night's show reflects the current culture's mentality and I wish I could be a fly on Diana Gabaldon's wall when she watched it to see if she might've been the slightest bit uncomfortable with Claire's superhero syndrome and Jamie's shell of a man appearance.
Barb wrote: "Part of the intrigue of having 2 strong-willed people from DIFFERENT eras in time is to see how they handle these huge differences and how it shapes their relationship dynamic."
Great point, and well said! Too bad TPTB on this show don't take that more into consideration
Sorry, I should have just commented at the end after the whole thing. You have articulated my point exactly. Jamie is wise and they are portraying him as a lost puppy. TV Jamie and Claire are super frustrating in this episode and I am mad that they have changed their personalities. I agree with it being TV Claire's way or the highway. Thanks! this is the first one I have watched all the way through. Keep it up.
Happy 9th Anniversary to MOP! Thanks for the MANY hours of fun reading and viewing. Your dedication to Outlander is still very much appreciated.
This is a heavy-handed episode on a historically dark and difficult topic. Though it expediantly made the case for why Jamie and Claire couldn't make a life at River Run, it did so at the cost of Claire appearing rude, impulsive, and unwise. In fact, neither of our protagonists shined much, and I was generally left disappointed. And don't even get me started on that damn wig. With all the attention it steals, it should be listed in the title credits: Featuring "Jamie's Wig."
I assume the episode title, "Do No Harm," has a double meaning, and wish that it focused more on Claire gaining understanding of the realities of the time period, along with a better awareness of the great harm her own actions could create for the rest of the inhabitants of River Run. I also wish it had been Jamie actively making her aware of the danger into which she was placing them all. I do agree 100% with your point about (book) Jamie NOT just automatically going along with all of Claire's 20th century-minded crusades, especially ones that would endanger her. Carol's comment that, "Jamie doesn't have a voice anymore, " echoes some of Sam's recent interview comments where he says (jokingly?) that Jamie just ends up doing whatever Claire tells him. Perhaps he's also annoyed by the changes made in his character.
I have been SO looking forward to Maria Doyle Kennedy's Jocasta (I loved her in Orphan Black!), and she certainly didn't disappoint. She and the Ian/John Q Myers scene provided most of the light for me in this episode. Speaking of Ian, with a mother like Jenny Murray, shouldn't he have better sense than to bring a foul-smelling dog into a fine home? He had a rope! Tie that dog outside, dude!
The Downton guy is Carson, and I also had trouble remembering his name until I started equating him with "Carlton, your doorman" from Rhoda. Ya know, whatever works.
Before I go, I'm sending prayers for your family for continued strength and good results. Keep fighting the good fight.
Hello Ladies. Wonderful, insightful, intelligent review of 4:02. You verbalized all the things I was feeling but could not quite put a handle on. Jamie's taking second place to Claire really asserted itself last episode, with CLAIRE taking the pole in the boat and NOT JAMIE (in the book, Jamie and Ian took turns poling the boat). I actually laughed out loud when I saw it, saying to myself, oh, here we go again with Claire getting all of Jamie's great lines and actions).
My thoughts and hopes are with your family, Carol, as you go through this difficult time, again. Strength and hugs are sent your way. Thank you for your marvelous videos that have kept me company and made me laugh since you started them. The longer, the better....
P.S. Look at what I found from Val Gal September 8, 2014: "There have been some really horrendous comments made on Twitter and FB from readers. How embarrassing! Saying Jamie is being portrayed as a wimp because he doesn't jump up and defend Claire every time she sticks her foot in it? Please! I've been waiting for 20 years to hear Jamie say, "It doesn't matter where you're from. You're here. Don't judge what you don't understand." I am THRILLED! Claire wound up with a bit o’ egg on her face a few times in this episode because of her false assumptions and rash judgments. My impression has always been that the reason Jamie & Claire's relationship works is because Jamie was the only person who didn't let her run amok and wasn't afraid to put her in her place when it would benefit her. I wouldn't respect Jamie so much if he had been portrayed as a doormat. And this portrayal of the dynamics between them is going to set us up perfectly for a certain future scene where he is forced to discipline her for her behavior. Lawd, that scene is gonna light up the Internet!"
I think Val Gal just might be from the future......
Keep doing what you are doing, girls. Love your commentary, and I get EVERYTHING you say and all of the asides are priceless. From Twilight to Shreck...yep...my mind goes there too! So weird.
First, I'm surprised that you didn't recall the scene in the book where Jamie makes Claire drink pipe dregs to get the ring up on the riverboat. He also chastises her for swallowing the ring, as it, in the book, made things worse with Bonnet. The show went very heavy- handed and had him murder Lindsey instead.
I agree that the show doesn't give Jamie's ability to quickly and accurately evaluate a situation the proper attention/due - they really do focus on Claire as the "smart one" too much and it's become predicable and a drag - in fact, it backfires by making Cat's portrayal sort of tiresome when Claire is in "enlightening Jamie" mode, which is so unfair to Cat.
Comments on the video and on other social media, that Claire should have been more grateful for the dress/hospitality and kept her mouth shut regarding her views on slaves, are part of why abusive unfair states like slavery or apartheid existed for so long. Be "grateful" for what those in power (or to whom one is beholden) deign to give you by politely shutting up... Gratitude for assistance and love, and abject disgust for abusive behavior aren't necessarily mutually exclusive and even fictional characters can be pouty and conflicted when navigating those murky waters. Claire was there for Jamie's sake, not her own. They could have gotten some of the money they gave Fergus and gone another way but she agreed to visit Jocasta for Jamie, not to get anything from her. Don't forget, Jocasta was the one who decided Claire would require a party dress, which was all part of her scheming to rope Jamie into doing her bidding. It was Jocasta who pushed Claire, one could even say provoked Claire, into that verbal quagmire.
I do think that the writers' having Jocasta use Campbell to thoroughly explain why just freeing the slaves wasn't really an option was a great demonstration of how canny Jocasta is and a good explanation of how Machiavellian the laws actually were at the time - for Jamie and the viewing audience who may not realize how horrifyingly thoroughly the economy and society codified slavery. They didn't use any of the time to show Jamie socializing around the area, sucking up knowledge like a sponge, as we know he did in the books, so it seems like the writers felt they had to get the info out and it wasn't the worst way to do it.
The show decided to bundle together Meyer's hernia operation and the Rufus story - which sort of sucks because the tones are utterly different. It was an unfortunate choice as the written story re: Rufus was more than adequate to show that Claire had to make the decision to assist his death for everyone's sake, in a hurry, and with Jamie's counsel.
The skunk scene was watered down to almost nothing, another unfortunate decision. That was one of the funnier scenes DG wrote in the series. I hope they'll take some time for the moments this season instead of rush through the plot.
Dear Carol. I wrote to you last year about finding your blog and videos while recovering from cancer surgery in 2014. You two were so funny, and it hurt to laugh so much I thought my 27 stitches would break. I'm sorry to hear about Tom. Keep fighting. Sharen
I just want to say how grateful I am to come here and watch your recaps & then see all the intelligent, interesting comments and discussions. Too many other sites on social media have a tendency to either be all adoringly full of love (no matter what they will never say thing that might be construed as negativity and they will jump down your throat if you say anything opposite of their viewpoint) or they are childishly ugly online. I guess that is the time we live in now, sad to say. No real discussion or opposing views can be had about anything.
That said, I agree with all above. On screen Jamie seems to be much more emasculated and forgive me, but I see it showing sometimes in Sam's acting. He has more than once seemed to be phoning it in. It's the Claire show at this point. I'm hoping that once they get to their own homestead, that will even out more as Jamie has to make a life & home for them. I can't believe it, but I've not particularly enjoyed these episodes so far. Hoping for better and I will watch no matter, but while I love seeing the scenery & wardrobe, the show just is lacking to me for some odd reason.
God bless you Carol & Tom. I will keep you in my prayers.
I so echo your comment, Trish. Not only do I appreciate Carol and Tracy's videos, but also the subsequent intelligent discussions, and the ability to give an authentic opinion without worrying I will bring on the hate.
I also reluctantly agree with you that Sam has been phoning it in. I've been super afraid to even admit it to myself, and deep down I'm still holding out hope that it's less his acting and more the poor script ("Is that the same as our dream?" ) and most likely due to the diminishment of book-Jamie's strong character. But it's something that's niggled at me a couple of times so far this season. Ugh. How I wish it weren't so. :(
Hi I am so glad to be back watching Outlander and you guys! I agree with your comments this week ! I want Jamie to be Jamie! This version isn’t who he is. Hard not to constantly compare book to show. But changing the basic characters is wrong. I too really wonder how young Ian will grow into IAN. Should be fun to watch. One thing that bothered me was that Jamie and Clair never discussed her ring being gone. She was so upset surely they would have mentioned it. Especially since they changed the ring so that Brianna will recognize it . I can’t tell you how much I look forward to your weekly comments! Carole your family is in my prayers!
Hello again ladies, thank you again for your humour and insight. I think I preferred your show to Episode 402. Agree with so many of the comments. Dredding future episodes somewhat ... !
hy why why !!!for the love of God!!!! didn't they keep to the book ...Why didn't they let Jamie remind Claire what time they were in and how there hands were tied but instead Claire pouting and stamp feet .. . she almost put everyone in that house in jeopardy.... if Matt Robbins stuck to the book instead of putting his opinions of what he thinks the book author was saying we would have a better show and maybe I wouldn't be distracted by Jamie's bangs so much ........ .. I wish ,,,,now here we go .,,,,,I wish they had introduced the character from the book Pollyanne the slave that Jamie and Claire helped to escape and went with JQM to an Indian reservation also kept the story as it was written in the books about Rufus .. .Pollyanne story line should of been pulled forward so at least we would of had her later on in the series ...isn't this book about a new life aren't there other people we should be introduced to like John Quincy and Pollyanne story line. Claire could of had her dining room operation on his hernia .. as far as Auntie Jocasta I so much love this actress I'm a huge Orphan Black fan so i was excited when they cast her but of course i love my Auntie Jocasta more and when reading the books i always pictured Sarah Lancashire as Auntie Jo also another great actress she resembles Jamie.. just my preference that's all
Last week the medicine chest was given by Jamie to Claire and he says he married her 24 years ago. So she was 27 and he was 22 or 23 when they married - so approximately 51 and 46 (though since it may be past Jamie's April bday he's have turned 47 by then.)
As for tattoos, Claire Foy recently spoke about her tattoos in her recent movie. They were apparently like decals that they applied to her and they did wash off So they were able to be exactly the same when the new set was applied each time.
First things first - you guys are perfect as you are -"Getting to the point"- what does that even MEAN?! You DO YOU! MOP RULES! And second - sending positive healing thoughts to your family Carol.
I know that this season has been written and shot. I really hope that the producers read and listen to fans... especially Ronald D. Moore... because the writing for Jamie... "King of Men"... just sucks (so far). Sam was overlooked for acknowledgment in past years when his performances were so stellar... I agree, sometimes it does feel as if he is no in the game... and that his character has become Claire's puppy. I know that they really are equal partners in their way, but Jamie is very much a strong, strong Laird. Jocasta may have that right in new episode when she confronts Claire about that. Anyway, I think that you both AND the respondents have this absolutely correct. But will the producers listen? Is Diana listening, and will she give that input, do you think?
When Tracey swears you know sh*t's gotten real! I finally got to finish this video and I was dying to hear Tracey's comments about show Jamie!
You are so right. In the book Jamie is a smart man who can assess a situation and figure out how to handle it very quickly. Even if he doesn't know all the details about something (like, say, the specifics of the slavery laws) he should KNOW that they will not let Rufus live. He should have told Claire that she is wasting her time, endangering the household and torturing poor Rufus for a slim chance of survival (let's face it - if he hadn't punctured something important he was probably going to die of infection or tetanus!) and at the end of the day - he would not be allowed to live anyway - total waste of time. We have so few eps to tell such a large complicated story - and when they spend screen minutes this way with everyone so out of character it's extremely frustrating.
Last week I forgot to post. I wanted to mention that I, too, sometimes wish Claire was more like book Claire. Do you remember the party scene in episode 402? Claire towered over all those men like a giant. I wish they had filmed it better! Cait does a lovely job acting, just had to mention this. I LOL'd at your "5 Ways to Kill/Kiss Your Boyfriend". Love your videos. Not enough Jamie!!! Prayers for your family's health. I got sick again, too, but this time it has not returned, for which I am grateful.
I am so sorry to hear the cancer is back. You might want to consider consulting with: https://wellnessforumhealth.com/. I would if it were me or my family.
Hey ladies! OMG after you guys said that thing about Kristen Stewart on Jimmy Kimmel I went right to You Tube and watched and it was so sweet the way her leg was shaking her whole body and R Patz turned to her and touched his leg to hers and he even whispered something to her. I miss those days lol! Anyway if I was transported back in time and put on a plantation with 100 slaves and a nasty guy with a whip I would be so freaked out and sickened that I would have to really try not to say anything but I doubt I could hold my tongue. I though Claire did a great job at first just being quiet and trying to hold her tongue until Jocasta pushed her to talk. I am team Claire all the way on this one.
ReplyDeleteYour videos cap off each episode for me every week! I love them! Your comments about Ian are right on! My son and I discussed that very issue at the end of the episode and the arc of the character, this season is something I am really looking forward to. Right now, I think John Bell is portraying Ian as his own personality and true acting will emerge as Ian grows and goes through his changes. I feel like the writer(s) of this episode demeaned both the characters of Claire and Jamie. This is the very first time I have disliked Claire and felt like they both should have been more aware than they were. It is also the first episode I have ever actively compared the book to the show. In the book, Jamie at least listened to Farquard Campbell and his aunt as to the law and how things were done. Claire was more adaptable and not as rudely rigid. As usual, you were both right on! Thank you!!!
ReplyDelete
Delete-Rude and rigid, selfish and riteous...It was hard to keep track of all the ‘ugly Americans.’ Claire’s 1960’s morality unchecked by 1760’s context comes across as immaturity at best. And Jamie, who usually checks her with added perspective, (for the sake of the reader and viewer) played the lap dog rather than an enlightened man of his time (who wouldn’t be caught dead with those bangs.). -Loved Jocasta!
You guys need to watch this episode on the STARZ app. There’s a recap at the end by the producers and they explain they found the house on location in Scotland and added the porch, etc. to the outside. All the rooms were specifically built in the studio including the grand staircase. Absolutely incredible attention to detail. I’m loving the clothes and sets. Maybe the wigs not so much. 🙂
ReplyDeleteDon't you even think about cutting this short by "getting to the point"! We have about 24 people that watch together and we die laughing all the time and are not ready for it to end!
ReplyDeleteSHUT...UP!!!! You guys all watch together?!? OMG You just MADE OUR DAY!!!! That is excellent!! Send us a photo or video; we would love to show it to the Outlander masses! 😘
DeleteYes we all do! Most of us just recently retired and stay up and watch you with libations and sleep in on Monday. We so look forward to your recap, it is hilarious. I guess we are all struggling with Jaime. It gets worse every season. We think so highly of Diana's work and it must be difficult for her to watch. We get the whole thing with show vs book thing, but honestly, for example all the time spent with Rufus and then cut other things or not include all of the special little things that Diana writes is just getting really frustrating. I know several people that have stopped watching, unfortunately. Remember Paoli Maggie is our fearless leader, by the way. She is really struggling this season and is usually the one to boost us all up and give things a chance. Usually we re-watch the episodes to make sure we did not miss anything. We have no desire to watch again. We think so highly of Diana's writing and this is just really off the mark. Carol, our thoughts are with you and your family and are so appreciative of you and Tracy's time and effort. You are the highlight of this year's season for sure! Believe me, we are always saying, no, not stopping yet!!
DeleteI agree with all that you said. Writers and producers please give Jamie back to us. he is a much stronger character than you keep portraying.
DeleteI’ve no interest to go back to rewatch the last couple seasons. Dropping starz. There’s other source material for the show they’re writing for Catriona. They have great casting and production values, but the writing is worse all the time. And they don’t care about the readers who trusted them with characters we’ve known for twenty years. Jamie’s character and the maturing relationship between he and Claire is why I read and watched. Before the Dr Quinn on steroids show wrecks the books for me, I’m going to peace-out and will look for Sam in something where his co-star can share the stage and story.
DeleteBoils down to 21st century social justice imposed on the storyline. With so much story to advance, why so much time on slavery and surgery? Slavery bad, but not solved in one episode. Claire's ability to use her 20th century medical skills to gather beneficial herbs to treat illness is true to DG and the character of the Claire we love.
DeleteSomeone on your you tube channel made the comment that TV Claire is more 2018 than 1968 and I have to agree. Do the writers think the 'badass,' social-justice-warrior-at-the-expense-of-all-others mentality is what viewers need to see in a female lead these days? Tracey asked the super important question: WOULDN'T IT HAVE BEEN MORE INTERESTING IF JAMIE AND CLAIRE DISAGREED? YES!!! TV Jamie has been emasculated and it's sooo boring. Everywhere I turn the #metoo movement is invading entertainment. No one is creative anymore; no one is showing how human beings are nuanced with grey areas and can learn from each other. Instead, the female is always right—because she's female. Ugh.
ReplyDeletePersonally, having been married over 2 decades, even though it's been hard as hell sometimes because my husband and I are both strong-willed, stubborn and we see certain topics VERY differently... we are stronger because of our differences. We have grown more as individuals. Not saying that J & C differ on their views of slavery, but part of the intrigue of having 2 strong-willed people from DIFFERENT eras in time is to see how they handle these huge differences and how it shapes their relationship dynamic. That would be more realistic, and as Tracey suggested, far more interesting. Last night's show reflects the current culture's mentality and I wish I could be a fly on Diana Gabaldon's wall when she watched it to see if she might've been the slightest bit uncomfortable with Claire's superhero syndrome and Jamie's shell of a man appearance.
Barb wrote:
Delete"Part of the intrigue of having 2 strong-willed people from DIFFERENT eras in time is to see how they handle these huge differences and how it shapes their relationship dynamic."
Great point, and well said! Too bad TPTB on this show don't take that more into consideration
Sorry, I should have just commented at the end after the whole thing. You have articulated my point exactly. Jamie is wise and they are portraying him as a lost puppy. TV Jamie and Claire are super frustrating in this episode and I am mad that they have changed their personalities. I agree with it being TV Claire's way or the highway. Thanks! this is the first one I have watched all the way through. Keep it up.
ReplyDeleteHi, gals!
ReplyDeleteHappy 9th Anniversary to MOP! Thanks for the MANY hours of fun reading and viewing. Your dedication to Outlander is still very much appreciated.
This is a heavy-handed episode on a historically dark and difficult topic. Though it expediantly made the case for why Jamie and Claire couldn't make a life at River Run, it did so at the cost of Claire appearing rude, impulsive, and unwise. In fact, neither of our protagonists shined much, and I was generally left disappointed. And don't even get me started on that damn wig. With all the attention it steals, it should be listed in the title credits: Featuring "Jamie's Wig."
I assume the episode title, "Do No Harm," has a double meaning, and wish that it focused more on Claire gaining understanding of the realities of the time period, along with a better awareness of the great harm her own actions could create for the rest of the inhabitants of River Run. I also wish it had been Jamie actively making her aware of the danger into which she was placing them all. I do agree 100% with your point about (book) Jamie NOT just automatically going along with all of Claire's 20th century-minded crusades, especially ones that would endanger her. Carol's comment that, "Jamie doesn't have a voice anymore, " echoes some of Sam's recent interview comments where he says (jokingly?) that Jamie just ends up doing whatever Claire tells him. Perhaps he's also annoyed by the changes made in his character.
I have been SO looking forward to Maria Doyle Kennedy's Jocasta (I loved her in Orphan Black!), and she certainly didn't disappoint. She and the Ian/John Q Myers scene provided most of the light for me in this episode. Speaking of Ian, with a mother like Jenny Murray, shouldn't he have better sense than to bring a foul-smelling dog into a fine home? He had a rope! Tie that dog outside, dude!
The Downton guy is Carson, and I also had trouble remembering his name until I started equating him with "Carlton, your doorman" from Rhoda. Ya know, whatever works.
Before I go, I'm sending prayers for your family for continued strength and good results. Keep fighting the good fight.
Dolittle
Let the complainers complain. We faithful viewers LOVE you two!!! Keep being who you are.
ReplyDeleteHello Ladies. Wonderful, insightful, intelligent review of 4:02. You verbalized all the things I was feeling but could not quite put a handle on. Jamie's taking second place to Claire really asserted itself last episode, with CLAIRE taking the pole in the boat and NOT JAMIE (in the book, Jamie and Ian took turns poling the boat). I actually laughed out loud when I saw it, saying to myself, oh, here we go again with Claire getting all of Jamie's great lines and actions).
ReplyDeleteMy thoughts and hopes are with your family, Carol, as you go through this difficult time, again. Strength and hugs are sent your way. Thank you for your marvelous videos that have kept me company and made me laugh since you started them. The longer, the better....
P.S. Look at what I found from Val Gal September 8, 2014: "There have been some really horrendous comments made on Twitter and FB from readers. How embarrassing! Saying Jamie is being portrayed as a wimp because he doesn't jump up and defend Claire every time she sticks her foot in it? Please! I've been waiting for 20 years to hear Jamie say, "It doesn't matter where you're from. You're here. Don't judge what you don't understand." I am THRILLED! Claire wound up with a bit o’ egg on her face a few times in this episode because of her false assumptions and rash judgments. My impression has always been that the reason Jamie & Claire's relationship works is because Jamie was the only person who didn't let her run amok and wasn't afraid to put her in her place when it would benefit her. I wouldn't respect Jamie so much if he had been portrayed as a doormat. And this portrayal of the dynamics between them is going to set us up perfectly for a certain future scene where he is forced to discipline her for her behavior. Lawd, that scene is gonna light up the Internet!"
ReplyDeleteI think Val Gal just might be from the future......
Keep doing what you are doing, girls. Love your commentary, and I get EVERYTHING you say and all of the asides are priceless. From Twilight to Shreck...yep...my mind goes there too! So weird.
ReplyDeleteHappy MOP Anniversary!
ReplyDeleteFirst, I'm surprised that you didn't recall the scene in the book where Jamie makes Claire drink pipe dregs to get the ring up on the riverboat. He also chastises her for swallowing the ring, as it, in the book, made things worse with Bonnet. The show went very heavy- handed and had him murder Lindsey instead.
I agree that the show doesn't give Jamie's ability to quickly and accurately evaluate a situation the proper attention/due - they really do focus on Claire as the "smart one" too much and it's become predicable and a drag - in fact, it backfires by making Cat's portrayal sort of tiresome when Claire is in "enlightening Jamie" mode, which is so unfair to Cat.
Comments on the video and on other social media, that Claire should have been more grateful for the dress/hospitality and kept her mouth shut regarding her views on slaves, are part of why abusive unfair states like slavery or apartheid existed for so long. Be "grateful" for what those in power (or to whom one is beholden) deign to give you by politely shutting up... Gratitude for assistance and love, and abject disgust for abusive behavior aren't necessarily mutually exclusive and even fictional characters can be pouty and conflicted when navigating those murky waters. Claire was there for Jamie's sake, not her own. They could have gotten some of the money they gave Fergus and gone another way but she agreed to visit Jocasta for Jamie, not to get anything from her. Don't forget, Jocasta was the one who decided Claire would require a party dress, which was all part of her scheming to rope Jamie into doing her bidding. It was Jocasta who pushed Claire, one could even say provoked Claire, into that verbal quagmire.
I do think that the writers' having Jocasta use Campbell to thoroughly explain why just freeing the slaves wasn't really an option was a great demonstration of how canny Jocasta is and a good explanation of how Machiavellian the laws actually were at the time - for Jamie and the viewing audience who may not realize how horrifyingly thoroughly the economy and society codified slavery. They didn't use any of the time to show Jamie socializing around the area, sucking up knowledge like a sponge, as we know he did in the books, so it seems like the writers felt they had to get the info out and it wasn't the worst way to do it.
The show decided to bundle together Meyer's hernia operation and the Rufus story - which sort of sucks because the tones are utterly different. It was an unfortunate choice as the written story re: Rufus was more than adequate to show that Claire had to make the decision to assist his death for everyone's sake, in a hurry, and with Jamie's counsel.
The skunk scene was watered down to almost nothing, another unfortunate decision. That was one of the funnier scenes DG wrote in the series. I hope they'll take some time for the moments this season instead of rush through the plot.
Dear Carol. I wrote to you last year about finding your blog and videos while recovering from cancer surgery in 2014. You two were so funny, and it hurt to laugh so much I thought my 27 stitches would break. I'm sorry to hear about Tom. Keep fighting.
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I just want to say how grateful I am to come here and watch your recaps & then see all the intelligent, interesting comments and discussions. Too many other sites on social media have a tendency to either be all adoringly full of love (no matter what they will never say thing that might be construed as negativity and they will jump down your throat if you say anything opposite of their viewpoint) or they are childishly ugly online. I guess that is the time we live in now, sad to say. No real discussion or opposing views can be had about anything.
ReplyDeleteThat said, I agree with all above. On screen Jamie seems to be much more emasculated and forgive me, but I see it showing sometimes in Sam's acting. He has more than once seemed to be phoning it in. It's the Claire show at this point. I'm hoping that once they get to their own homestead, that will even out more as Jamie has to make a life & home for them. I can't believe it, but I've not particularly enjoyed these episodes so far. Hoping for better and I will watch no matter, but while I love seeing the scenery & wardrobe, the show just is lacking to me for some odd reason.
God bless you Carol & Tom. I will keep you in my prayers.
I so echo your comment, Trish. Not only do I appreciate Carol and Tracy's videos, but also the subsequent intelligent discussions, and the ability to give an authentic opinion without worrying I will bring on the hate.
DeleteI also reluctantly agree with you that Sam has been phoning it in. I've been super afraid to even admit it to myself, and deep down I'm still holding out hope that it's less his acting and more the poor script ("Is that the same as our dream?" ) and most likely due to the diminishment of book-Jamie's strong character. But it's something that's niggled at me a couple of times so far this season. Ugh. How I wish it weren't so. :(
Hi I am so glad to be back watching Outlander and you guys! I agree with your comments this week ! I want Jamie to be Jamie! This version isn’t who he is. Hard not to constantly compare book to show. But changing the basic characters is wrong. I too really wonder how young Ian will grow into IAN. Should be fun to watch. One thing that bothered me was that Jamie and Clair never discussed her ring being gone. She was so upset surely they would have mentioned it. Especially since they changed the ring so that Brianna will recognize it .
ReplyDeleteI can’t tell you how much I look forward to your weekly comments! Carole your family is in my prayers!
Hello again ladies, thank you again for your humour and insight. I think I preferred your show to Episode 402. Agree with so many of the comments. Dredding future episodes somewhat ... !
ReplyDeletehy why why !!!for the love of God!!!! didn't they keep to the book ...Why didn't they let Jamie remind Claire what time they were in and how there hands were tied but instead Claire pouting and stamp feet .. . she almost put everyone in that house in jeopardy.... if Matt Robbins stuck to the book instead of putting his opinions of what he thinks the book author was saying we would have a better show and maybe I wouldn't be distracted by Jamie's bangs so much ........ .. I wish ,,,,now here we go .,,,,,I wish they had introduced the character from the book Pollyanne the slave that Jamie and Claire helped to escape and went with JQM to an Indian reservation also kept the story as it was written in the books about Rufus .. .Pollyanne story line should of been pulled forward so at least we would of had her later on in the series ...isn't this book about a new life aren't there other people we should be introduced to like John Quincy and Pollyanne story line. Claire could of had her dining room operation on his hernia .. as far as Auntie Jocasta I so much love this actress I'm a huge Orphan Black fan so i was excited when they cast her but of course i love my Auntie Jocasta more and when reading the books i always pictured Sarah Lancashire as Auntie Jo also another great actress she resembles Jamie.. just my preference that's all
ReplyDeleteLast week the medicine chest was given by Jamie to Claire and he says he married her 24 years ago. So she was 27 and he was 22 or 23 when they married - so approximately 51 and 46 (though since it may be past Jamie's April bday he's have turned 47 by then.)
ReplyDeleteAs for tattoos, Claire Foy recently spoke about her tattoos in her recent movie. They were apparently like decals that they applied to her and they did wash off
ReplyDeleteSo they were able to be exactly the same when the new set was applied each time.
First things first - you guys are perfect as you are -"Getting to the point"- what does that even MEAN?! You DO YOU! MOP RULES!
ReplyDeleteAnd second - sending positive healing thoughts to your family Carol.
Tweetlee_Dee
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ReplyDeleteI know that this season has been written and shot. I really hope that the producers read and listen to fans... especially Ronald D. Moore... because the writing for Jamie... "King of Men"... just sucks (so far). Sam was overlooked for acknowledgment in past years when his performances were so stellar... I agree, sometimes it does feel as if he is no in the game... and that his character has become Claire's puppy. I know that they really are equal partners in their way, but Jamie is very much a strong, strong Laird. Jocasta may have that right in new episode when she confronts Claire about that. Anyway, I think that you both AND the respondents have this absolutely correct. But will the producers listen? Is Diana listening, and will she give that input, do you think?
ReplyDeleteIf viewers are bothered by Sam’s character diminishmement, stands to reason he is too. I hate to agree, but he seems to have given up.
ReplyDeleteWhen Tracey swears you know sh*t's gotten real!
ReplyDeleteI finally got to finish this video and I was dying to hear Tracey's comments about show Jamie!
You are so right.
In the book Jamie is a smart man who can assess a situation and figure out how to handle it very quickly. Even if he doesn't know all the details about something (like, say, the specifics of the slavery laws) he should KNOW that they will not let Rufus live. He should have told Claire that she is wasting her time, endangering the household and torturing poor Rufus for a slim chance of survival (let's face it - if he hadn't punctured something important he was probably going to die of infection or tetanus!) and at the end of the day - he would not be allowed to live anyway - total waste of time.
We have so few eps to tell such a large complicated story - and when they spend screen minutes this way with everyone so out of character it's extremely frustrating.
Tweetlee_Dee
Maria Doyle Kennedy was great in The Commitments, too....Great singer!
ReplyDeleteLast week I forgot to post. I wanted to mention that I, too, sometimes wish Claire was more like book Claire. Do you remember the party scene in episode 402? Claire towered over all those men like a giant. I wish they had filmed it better! Cait does a lovely job acting, just had to mention this. I LOL'd at your "5 Ways to Kill/Kiss Your Boyfriend". Love your videos. Not enough Jamie!!!
ReplyDeletePrayers for your family's health. I got sick again, too, but this time it has not returned, for which I am grateful.
I am so sorry to hear the cancer is back. You might want to consider consulting with: https://wellnessforumhealth.com/. I would if it were me or my family.
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