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Review: The Vampire Diaries, Season 2, Ep. 21 “The Sun Also Rises”

Airdate: Thursday, May 5, 2011 8PM

John writing a letter to Elena

I have to admit, I expected a little more from this episode. Especially since it’s the next to last for the season. Damon’s (Ian Somerhalder) werewolf bite remains an unsolved problem; Matt (Zach Roerig) and Caroline (Candice Accola) have a heart-to-heart; and John (David Anders) comes back to do what he feels the Salvatore brothers have failed at—keeping Elena (Nina Dobrev) safe.

“Oh my God. He killed me.” Yes, Jenna (Sara Canning), and that makes you a vampire. This is quite the twist I did not see coming. Not only does Jenna not realize what’s happened to her, but she can’t stop what’s happening to her, like her thirst. I kind of like the irony of Jenna not believing in vampires then becoming one, albeit against her will. And how about Elena dishing out newbie vampire advice?

Now this new witch, Greta (actor uncredited), she’s amazing. Why isn’t Bonnie (Kat Graham) more like her? Did Greta have more skill because of her family or do the writers want to keep Bonnie tame until some life-changing moment? I’d like to see her come into her own—be the witch we know she can be. It seems to be taking such a long time for her to be good at what should come naturally to her. Wind gusts and surging flames do not a powerful witch make.

So it would seem Elijah (Daniel Gillies) has quite the bone to pick with his brother, Klaus (Joseph Morgan). There seems to be more to the story with these two, and I’m not sure we’ll ever know the truth of it. But I think I can guess what it is just from the few tidbits the writers have divulged so far. My curiosity is definitely piqued.

Jeremy, John and Bonnie crafting a plan to save Elena's life

The special effects are very nicely done. The three fire rings are reminiscent of the Olympics’ fire rings (sort of), and they are quite effective. Now here’s my question: with Klaus having gained access to his latent ability, what is he planning to do with it? The fact that we don’t know leaves me a bit lost and wondering what could be gained from a hybrid vampire/werewolf. Too bad we’ll never find out. Or will we…? I always enjoy a change in plans and Elijah makes sure of that. Gillies does an excellent job displaying the war of emotions Elijah feels when faced with a major decision. I only hope Elijah made the right choice.

“Come back as a vampire and I’ll stake you myself. ’Cause I can’t stand the idea of you hating me forever.” Heartfelt words from Damon. He truly loves Elena yet she doesn’t see it. So I have to ask myself, does she deserve his love? I want the opportunity to see them together but Damon should be with someone who loves him as much, if not more than, he loves them. Can Elena step up to the challenge, or is she better off with Stefan (Paul Wesley)?

“This is the second time I’ve tried to kill you.” I know this wasn’t meant to be funny, but it gave me a chuckle. I like seeing Caroline taking care of Tyler (Michael Trevino). He seems to appreciate her and wants to be around her. Except for when he’s wolfing out and trying to kill her. I think they are good for one another and I look forward to seeing what the writers decide to do with their blossoming relationship. Because you have to know they are going to move beyond friendship at some point.

I did not love this episode but I thought it wasn’t bad for what it was. It’s the build up to the season finale which looks like it will be incredible. We still have to find out what happens to Damon and his pending death by werewolf bite, as well as the fallout of Elijah’s decision. I, for one, can’t wait to see what’s next.

Tune in to the season finale of The Vampire Diaries, next Thursday at 8PM/7c on The CW. For more on the show, visit http://www.cwtv.com/shows/the-vampire-diaries.

 

All photos ©2011 The CW Network, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

 

Writer, mother, realist, cloud lover, daydreamer, dessert enthusiast, sweet tea addict, perfectionist, and lover of life and Christ, but not in that order. http://www.fanfiction.net/~vikingloverelle