Various ramblings by the small hobbit

There's a careful balance this show needs to maintain between the vampire/immortal aspect (as Nick works to reclaim his humanity and redeem himself) and the police procedural aspect (in which Nick sometimes saves the night by flying across Toronto's traffic, but is otherwise just a cop). It's impressive how well the writing manages. But I like it best when the writers throw police procedural caution to the wind and really lean into the premise.

'Dying for Fame' was a bonkers episode in which Nick gets carried away into delusions of MTV horror while over-identifying with a shambling, alcoholic wreck trapped by her own fame. Unlike Angel's later 'Eternity,' which adopted a deeply cynical tone, this is played for idealism. Nick can't free himself yet, but he can break the machine trapping Rebecca and release her into the wilds.

It's also a great snapshot of the era's musical moment, as this episode is absolutely wedded to hair metal controversy, and Schanke is mocked as over the hill for his fondness for BTO - and I'm laughing at the lot, because Nirvana is now a major thing and is killing the careers of almost every hair metal act standing. Rebecca got out just in time.

Then, and even better, 'Only the Lonely.' In which Natalie takes center stage, and I finally care about the Nick/Natalie ship, and I finally meet Natalie's darling cat! This one had a high level of suspense, and a high level of WTF. I actually like Natalie's coworker, but what kind of coworker gives lingerie as a present? That is the sole reserve of intimate partners! I full-body shuddered! And this episode has a crazy rapist-murderer running around!

Honestly, this episode just made me feel so bad for Natalie (again; her last limelight episode was no picnic either). She does work too hard. Her days off get interrupted. The guy she has devoted what little spare time she has to curing barely notices her. Her coworkers are inappropriate. She barely has time to shop for cat food. And the one guy who shows an interest is a total psycho.

Nick and Natalie have great arguments where I can see both their perspectives and Natalie doesn't automatically come across as wrong. They should argue more. It's fun.

Also, highly appreciated the flashbacks to Natalie meeting Nick (where else but her examining table). He tried to put the mind whammy on her and it failed. She is too strong willed. There's also an implication that the victim must want to forget, so that's interesting. Really good episode.

Could have done without the trip and fall, though.