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Angel
A New World
Episode Air Date 05/06/02
This episode starts on shaky ground but eventually levels out into a fair offering.
Two problems weaken the opening. First, there is Connor’s hokey wrist-mounted spike gun, an item that looks like a cross between a weapon from the Road Warrior world and something the Professor designed for Gilligan. Second, and far worse, is the poor use of pseudo-Matrix slow motion during the initial fight scenes. Perhaps after the last two plodding episodes the producers realized that it was impossible to slow down the plot any more, so they slowed down the action instead.
In the past the show’s creators have also experimented with the fight choreography by splicing in fast motion sequences. None of this has worked especially well. Though a subsequent battle between Connor and a drug gang works better, one has to ask “What’s wrong with real time combat?” Perhaps one of the reasons for the special effects is to showcase Connor’s talents. Apparently this bridge leaping, bus-riding lad has inherited some special abilities from his father (the real one; what he has inherited from his “adopted” father is a dire need for grief counseling).
It is probably best for fans not to question the details of Connor’s hereditary gifts. After all, even Whedon and Company (the real “Powers That Be”) have admitted to making up much of the Angel mythos as they go along.
The episode, of course, focuses on Angel’s attempts to reconcile with Connor. For the most part the scenes between the two work well. It will be interesting to see if Connor can outgrow Holtz’ programming. Less effective is Sonny, who seems a bit too witty and charming for a drug addict. As in past episodes, the show is often at its worst when it tries too hard to incorporate the horrors of the real world.
The writers do a good job of balancing the main plot with back-stories involving the other characters. A surprising encounter between Wesley and Lilah is particularly entertaining. One of the strengths of Angel (the show, not the man-vamp) has been strong character development. While many fans are quick to point out Cordelia’s transformation from spoiled teen to selfless adult, one should not overlook the evolution of Wesley, who is equally far removed from his early days as a wimpy substitute Watcher. And Lilah too has also grown into a much more cunning foe.
Other back-stories are also effective. The decaying relationship between Groo and Cordelia yields up simmering sarcasm (Groo) and delusion (Cordelia). Meanwhile, Lorne is ever effective at lightening the situation and brings along some extra fun in the form of portal closing Myrna.
It’s got all the makings for a good season finale.
