Angel S01E14 She

Review First then Essay

You know that magical moment when a character becomes more than just a fictional creation, and you feel like you could have coffee with them, rant about your day, and maybe save the world together? That’s where I’m at with the trio from Angel Investigations - Angel, Cordelia, and Wesley. Whether they are slaying demons or dancing awkwardly, I am here for it all! So, it was with this bubbling pot of emotions that I sat down to watch the thirteenth episode of the first season of Angel, titled “She”. The team embarks on an investigation of spontaneous human combustion cases, and in the process, they unearth a plan involving refugees from another dimension.

The Plot — Strolling Through the Neutral Zone:

Let’s be real - “She” was like that sandwich you eat when you’re not particularly hungry, but you have to because it’s lunchtime. It wasn’t a rollercoaster; it was more like a pleasant stroll in the park. We’ve got spontaneous combustions, parallel dimensions, refugees, and, of course, a dance sequence! But, it felt like the episode was cruising on neutral gear. Not really zooming through an adrenaline-pumping narrative nor screeching to a halt with boredom.

Bai Ling as Jheira elevated the episode with her fabulousness. However, the plot got a little convoluted. It appeared to touch upon themes like genital mutilation and patriarchal dominance but didn’t quite hit the mark. The concept of 'ko,' a mystical force in the women from Oden Tal, seemed intriguing but left me scratching my head with confusion.

Dancing and Heavy-Handed Metaphors:

Dance alert! Yes, there’s dancing, and it is glorious. Angel and Wesley’s dancing is a saving grace. It’s moments like these that make you adore characters even more, and you think, “All’s well in the world.”

However, moving back to the plot - the handling of the ko and the depiction of women from Oden Tal was baffling. There were hints at deeper themes, but it got lost somewhere between interdimensional portals and spontaneous combustions.

Wesley’s Redemption?

One noteworthy aspect was Wesley’s character. We know him as the one who’s most likely to trip over his own shoelaces. But in “She,” we see glimmers of Wesley’s growth, as he holds his own in a fight. Is this the beginning of a more formidable Wesley? Time will tell.

Personal Taste or Missed Opportunity?

“She” is an episode that could have been so much more. With a plot involving parallel dimensions and a mysterious force, it had the ingredients for a memorable story. But somehow, it fell flat.

Does this mean it was awful? Not at all. Perhaps it's an issue of personal taste. Some might find elements in this episode that resonate with them. I’m curious to know if there are fans of “She” out there and what they loved about it.

Essay

"She” Uses a Bold Feminist Metaphor

Jhiera emerges as a beacon of resistance, her unwavering resolve piercing through the oppressive darkness. The episode digs its claws into themes such as women's agency, the sanctity of the female body, and the fight to keep the flames of desire and passion burning against the gales of patriarchy.

Oppression and Male Control:

If you’re searching for a depiction of the dark underbelly of male dominance, “She” has it in spades. The Vigories are the manifestation of the domineering force that seeks to shackle female autonomy. By shining a harsh light on the lengths the oppressors will go to maintain control, the episode doesn’t shy away from exploring the sinister reaches of gender-based oppression.

Intersectionality and Solidarity:

Let’s talk intersectionality. “She” serves us a reminder that oppression is a many-headed beast that treats its victims differently based on various intersecting identities. Angel and Jhiera, two warriors fighting their own battles, find unity in their shared resolve to shield the helpless. The alliance emphasizes the essence of collective fortitude in ripping apart the walls of oppression.

Symbolism and Imagery:

Ah, the language of symbols! The ridges on Jhiera’s spine don’t just stand for physical prowess and sexuality; they are a testament to what was ripped from the women. The portal, a vortex of freedom; the ice factory, the chilling abode of oppression. “She” makes use of poignant imagery to etch its themes into our consciousness.

Empowerment and Self-Determination:

In “She,” empowerment is a phoenix that rises from the ashes. Jhiera, with her steel-edged determination, embodies the spirit of countless fighters tearing down the barriers set by patriarchal expectations. Here, women are the storm, the change-makers who reclaim their destinies.

Reflecting on our Reality:

As the credits roll on “She,” the echoes of its narrative reverberate in our own world. By immersing ourselves in tales such as this, we sharpen our perception of the battles yet to be won, and the chains yet to be broken.

Conclusion:

“She” was an episode that happened. It wasn’t an artistic masterpiece, but it wasn’t a train wreck either. It was an episode that had some fabulous moments (hello, dancing!), an intriguing premise, but somehow lacked that ‘oomph.’

However, that won’t stop me from basking in the awesomeness of the Angel Investigations trio. Their camaraderie, growth, and quirky moments keep me coming back for more. It beckons us to reflect upon the shackles that still weigh heavily upon countless women.

So, in the spirit of celebrating the characters we love, let’s have a dance party in the comments! I’m talking GIFs of Angel and Wesley’s dance moves, synced to perfection. Let’s make this a cosmic dance-off!