“Fire with Fire” is an immense improvement over last week’s lackluster episode, mainly because Klaus’s apparent regression/lack of character development is proven to be a ruse. While Klaus remains a frustratingly fickle and emotional character, “Fire with Fire” is proof not only that Klaus is capable of character growth, but also that the show’s writers have the intention of developing him further.
After several long weeks of stilted storylines, The Originals is finally wrapping up loose ends (Eva Sinclair, Esther) in prepartion for Dahlia’s extra long-awaited arrival. As a result, “Exquisite Corpse” contains more momentum and action than the last few episodes the show’s offered, and that’s a good thing–The Originals operates best when it’s surging forward, rather than stumbling aimlessly along.
“Save My Soul” could’ve easily been a lackluster episode, thanks to large chunks of exposition, flashbacks, and slow forward momentum, but, luckily, The Originals keeps the episode interesting by honing in on the various characters’ relationships while simultaneously teasing the arrival of future Big Bad Dahlia.
The Originals may only be halfway through its sophomore season, but the show sure knows how to deliver a solid, and thoroughly entertaining, mid-season finale. Of course, it helps that the episode features both Elijah and Klaus cooing over a baby girl, as well as enough familial drama, surprise twists, and romantic encounters to keep fans satiated until January.
The majority of “Every Mother’s Son” is a set-up for future episodes, and the episode is pretty good for what it ultimately is. A lot of grade-A decisions are made during the hour that’ll only make future episodes better and more compelling. After only three episodes, this season seems to be on relatively-solid footing, and “Every Mother’s Son” does a good job fleshing out what to expect in the forthcoming weeks.