Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell, S01E05- Arabella (Patreon)

Hi there, Patrons! I know it's weird for this to post in the middle of the night but if there's one thing I've learned about my personality, it's that it's way easier for me to stay up and get my work done, than to get up earlier to do it in the morning. And I have to be to work at 8 AM so...yeah. 

This was a great, if heartbreaking, episode. Owen is probably correct in thinking that the next episode will be even sadder, but it's really so well done already that I don't know if I can handle Jonathan getting more upset and insane. I mean, that moment when he sees the Moss Oak that he thinks is Arabella, and the relief and love and fear on his face....ugh, he's too good an actor. And her! She's two completely different people on this show, it's incredible to watch the same actress play smart, self-possessed Arabella and then become the weird, alien Moss Oak. 

Meanwhile, Norrell is off with Fuckface McGee, thinking that everything Jonathan is doing is somehow a punishment that's being personally directed at him. It's so irritating to watch because I think we all know this person, someone who is so self-centered that it doesn't even enter their head that something has nothing to do with them. Norrell is a great character, despite being infuriating, and it's awesome to have him as this strange side-villain next to The Gentleman. 

I hope that you're all enjoying our coverage, and I will see you next week!