Once Upon a Time: “Siege Perilous” Further Thoughts

Posted in Once Upon a Time, Television Reviews by Marianne Paluso

This week’s addition of Further Thoughts is a bit shorter as I was able to cover most everything in my Nerd Machine review. But there are still some interesting things to discuss.

Parallels:

I touched upon the poignant parallels a bit in my review but they’re worth mentioning again because it shows just how well structured the show truly is. Going all the way back to 2×6 “Tallahassee” Emma and Hook’s conversation on the beanstalk revealed how he could read her like an open book. He could see that she is scared and recognizes the lonely look in her eyes. He says it’s because he knows the Lost Boys, but we know that he too has seen that look when he has looked at his own reflection. Their first adventure established them as kindred spirits. The fact that very much the same dialogue is employed in the current scene, and the fact that Emma says she is no longer scared, is was a way of connecting these two scenes in a meaningful way, and creating a long thread to their story.

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It is also no coincidence that this current storyline came after Killian’s ordeal with Gold in Season 4 where his heart was taken and he saw that Gold was trying to have both power and love. In “Fall” Killian makes the wise statement that Belle truly loves Gold and he could have her or power. Gold says he can have both, but the point is that love was not enough for Gold. He refuses to give up one. Emma is now doing the exact same thing. She wants to be the Dark One and wants Killian to be with her. But he knows better and know this is not the real Emma. Love is more than enough for the both of them, and that is what he wants her to remember.

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Coincidentally, and beautifully, all 3 episodes were written by Jane Espenson. She clearly likes to connect her stories together.

Lastly, this parallel does not require much explanation. It is just an exquisitely poignant one. Emma has always been described as having walls that protect her heart. When the line about breaking them down was played over their passionate kiss in the season 3 finale it was a moving way of showing how they have finally come tumbling down. And Killian loved being the one to break them down because that meant she not only was finding courage to let love in and return it, but that she chose him as the one who finally could break down those walls. Only someone she could truly love would be able to do so.

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Music:

The music of Once Upon a Time is one of the things that adds to its depth, beauty, and caliber. Movie scores are probably what I listen to more than anything and the best are memorable, evocative, and reflect what is going on in the scene while still being beautiful on their own. Mark Isham’s score for Once is brilliant and I love the recurring themes. But in “Siege Perilous” I was impressed not only hearing new themes but also music just a bit different than we’ve heard before. In the Captain Swan scene on the Jolly Roger, the music is somber and melancholy with still a hint of romantic undertones. Most especially, it is restrained and delicate reflecting the tension and intimacy of the moment. Watch the scene below to hear this lovely music.

Similarly, the chilling scene with Arthur and his squire was elevated by its score, in particular the high pitched, somewhat frantic use of violin. I have never heard music like this on the show before and it made the scene even more gripping. Listen below and be amazed!

Cinematography:

Stephen Jackson’s cinematography is another crucial aspect of the show that deserves attention and praise. The best lighting is not only beautiful but can give you visual clue to what is happening in the scene, even if it’s on a subconscious level. The scene of the Jolly Roger is a lovely example. The scene is dim and the color is muted, a stark contrast to the bright lighting and saturated color from the Emma and Killian’s first real date. The lighting here reflects that this date is not the same. It’s an illusion. Moreover, I love the way the lighting mirrors the nature of their relationship in the two shot and individual close ups. The scene may be dim but in the shot with the two of them in frame, the window behind them is very bright. This is to show that together they are strong. When they are united they are a beacon of light and love. In the close ups, however, we see that while Killian still has light behind them, Emma does not. There is no light behind her, only darkness. So while Killian is in the light, Emma is in the dark. But the important thing to remember is we are neither all dark or light. We have both. Still, these were lovely visual reflections of their characters in this moment.

The same visual clue can be said for some scenes with Lancelot and Arthur. When Lancelot appears to Snow, they are standing in a dark corridor, but he is literally standing in a pathway of light. Is this light a sign of his trustworthiness? The contradictory and perplexing nature of Arthur is reflected in the lighting on his face while he watches his squire die. Half in light, half in shadow, Arthur literally has two sides to him. Which is the truer one remains to be seen.

Killian’s Heart:

The line the Dark One Rumple says to Emma about Killian is very intriguing: “You crushed his heart even more…” Even more suggests she already has in the past. Was his heart crushed to cast the curse and he is now sharing Emma’s? That is certainly a possibility. I do know that dialogue is specifically chosen, so I truly believe there is something to this line. It is also lovely to see that Emma appears to touch Killian’s chest when they are speaking, the way she often does. That is a glimmer of the real Emma.

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Excalibur:

The idea that Emma is going to create a hero out of Mr. Gold so he can pull the sword from the stone feels not only like a misdirect but also disingenuous. If Gold is ever going to show the kind of heroics necessary (the kind he displayed when he defeated Pan), it must come from within. Emma can’t make him a hero.

An interesting thing about Excalibur is that I wonder if you not only have to be worthy to pull the sword from the stone, but also to wield it. Perhaps only a true hero can do so, much like Thor’s hammer, or your fate will be that of Sir Kay.

Off Screen Conversations:

Although we would love every single conversation to happen on screen, it is simply not possible. That is why I appreciate when they reference ones that have happened off screen. Hearing that Killian told Emma about the first time he met Rumple is moving. It shows that he has been very honest with her about his darkest days, and that like he does with her, she loves him for all his scars and imperfections. Neither would condone his dark past, but Emma does not condemn him for it. She recognizes how he has changed for the better and loves him for who he truly is. After all, she likes when people find their good hearts along the way.

Jousting:

I cannot get over the fact that David turned a car chase into a jousting match. This is one of those things you would only see on Once Upon a Time, and I love it! Also, he is the most trusting person ever when it comes to letting people with no driving experience get behind the wheel. First Henry and now Arthur. He certainly has faith!

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Screencaps Source: Screencapped.net

8Oct2015

Once Upon a Time: “The Price” Further Thoughts

Posted in Once Upon a Time, Television Reviews by Marianne Paluso

This was one of my favorite episodes of the series ever, so it is only natural that I would have a lot of additional thoughts on top of my Nerd Machine review. This is somewhat speculative on some levels as well, so I hope you enjoy!!

-The Dark Swan’s Motivations and Behavior:

There are so many questions and mysteries surrounding Emma’s motivations. What happened in Camelot? Why did she bring them all back to Storybrooke and erase their memories? What exactly does the Dark Swan want and how is that reflected in her demeanor and behavior? She says she wants to punish those who failed her in Camelot and she is isolating herself from everyone except Killian and Henry. She wants to forge the dagger with Excalibur so she can do what all other Dark Ones failed to do- snuff out the light forever. The light they are always pulled towards filled with those they love and those that love them. But what would she gain by snuffing out this light? Ultimate power? Total darkness in the world, meaning complete isolation from love? That does not sound like something Emma would want, especially since as the Dark One, your qualities are simply amplified. Though the darkness can also twist things and lead to bad decisions. That is what makes Emma’s motivations so unclear and enigmatic. Some of her behavior can be analyzed, however, if you imagine all of her characteristics put under a microscope and magnified, the good and the bad ones. More importantly, I think her behavior is related to the way she grew up, her new responsibilities as the Savior, and her insecurities. And frankly much of this is empathetic. She grew up without a real home, so the house she takes up residence in is a beautiful, spacious Victorian complete with a white picket fence. It’s the type of idyllic home a young Emma would have dreamed of living in with a family that loved her. But inside the home lacks warmth. The tables only have two chairs, there are no photos on the walls, and in the end she is sitting alone in the dark at her kitchen table. Emma may have a house, but not a home.

Additionally, Emma has always been afraid of opening her heart because those she did so with left her, so she seems quite possessive of Killian.

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But her insecurities also come into play. She has often felt unloved and not good enough, so when Killian refused her advances, heartbroken his kiss did not work, she says it’s because this is who she is now, and does not understand why he can’t accept that. This is what makes the relationship between them so dramatic.

– The Push and Pull between Emma & Killian:

The push and pull between Captain Swan in this episode during the present day Storybrooke was set up so beautifully. They deeply, truly, and passionately love each other. There is no question about that. But when he tells her “this isn’t you” she is hurt, feeling like once again like she is not good enough. Of course this is not true. Killian loves Emma for who she is through and through. But there is bound to be this constant push and pull between them in this half of the season, because this is not the true Emma. She is in there, but the Dark One persona is overriding her. Belle understood why True Love’s kiss did not work with Rumple, but she still chose to be with him. She accepted him as the Dark One because she believed he could be that and a good man. While it’s important to accept those we love unconditionally, at the same time this did not help Rumple at all. No one would fault Belle, but true love should inspire us to be our best selves, and he only descended deeper into darkness. For Killian, he just wants the Emma he knows, to save her from the darkness. Obviously, this is a good thing, but she is hurt he isn’t accepting her as she is. The journey for Emma and Killian is sure to be somewhere in between these two states. Loving accepting each other as they are, but also inspiring each other to be their best selves- to be good people. In the end this kind of true love will be stronger than the darkness.

– The Emphasis on Hands & Isolation:

Once again hands proved significant, and for all of the characters. The moment Regina, Snow, David, Leroy, and Arthur all joined hands and fought off the fury we see the symbolism of hands united that has been prevalent on the show. Together they are stronger and can defeat anything.

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For Emma, we saw the beginning of her isolation from her loved ones with this emphasis on hands, and also significantly, paralleling where Killian once was. After she heals Robin we see her let go of Killian’s hand and leave him, a shot they made an effort to clearly show in frame.

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When she returns, she stands in the doorway, physically and symbolically separated from her loved ones, even at this early stage. It is so reminiscent of when Killian stood the doorway of the hospital room, looking in at the happy Charming family. In both cases, there is a separation from the family they care for, and a sadness because of it.

And just like when Killian stood alone across from Granny’s looking in at the Diner with sadness and longing in his eyes, at the end of this episode we see Emma do the same. That is the real Emma in that moment. This cannot be what she wants. And what was so heart wrenching in that moment was what Emma does with her hands. Not long ago, she was walking down the street, Killian’s hand entwined with hers. Now she isolated from him, so to fill this void, she clasps her hands together. She holds her own hand.

This is heartbreaking, but just the beginning of her journey. When she realizes this path of darkness will not lead her towards what she truly wants, she will reach out her hand towards light and love again.

– Passionate Kisses:

There was something so moving in the similarities between the two attempts at True Love’s Kiss. They really mirrored each other. Killian kissed Emma in Storybrooke, Emma kissed Killian in Camelot. Both were incredibly passionate, loving, and desperate attempts to destroy the darkness. And both times Killian pulled away out of concern and confusion. You feel both anguish and melancholy and love and hope in both kisses. And significantly, you don’t have two attempts (on top of Killian’s other attempt), if a truly successful one was not on the horizon. That would be cruel to both the characters and the audience, and while they do have moments that make us cry, they also believe in happy endings. Once Upon a Time is not a show about despair, but rather hope. Maybe it’s not just about choosing love over power. Perhaps it’s not just about destroying darkness but restoring love.

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– The Ball at Camelot:

The Ball was one of the loveliest gifts the show has ever bestowed upon us, and one of the most beautiful moments was seeing Emma hold Killian’s hook while they were dancing. He has always been a bit self conscious about it, going so far as to have his hand reattached for their first date. But to Emma it does not matter whether he has two hands or not. And that was clear as we see them dancing, her holding onto his hook with the same gentleness and natural ease as a hand. She loves him exactly the way he is.

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The way Robin and Regina danced was also so incredibly sweet. I liked seeing them have a moment lost in each other. There is not much else to say about the moment below except that it is absolutely adorable, and it also looks like it could be the actors simply laughing. Either way, it works, and it’s as cute as all get out.

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– Wedding Foreshadowing:

There has always been a great deal of wedding allusions and hints of foreshadowing for Emma and Killian, from them holding up rings to each other, to so often a wedding dress being visible in a storefront behind them in many scenes. You may say that is simply a coincidence, but they could have anything in these store windows. Why a wedding dress? I for one think nothing is by chance on this show.

Moreover, the way in which the Ball was filmed was like a beautiful prelude to what a wedding would look like for their characters. From Emma’s white lace dress that was so reminiscent of a wedding gown, to the smile on Killian’s face filed with all the love and amazement that a groom would express watching his bride walk down the aisle, it is impossible for me to believe this was not PURPOSEFULLY meant to resemble a wedding.

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-Does Killian have a connection to Camelot?:

Is Killian connected to this mystical realm? No I do not think he has any kind of obvious connection because I think he would be forthcoming about that. I do however, feel like there may be some kind of unexpected connection, even to him. There did seem to be a pull between him and Excalibur. Not only was he immediately drawn to the door leading to it, but in the promotional poster for the season (seen below in an uncompleted state where he is more visible), we see him not only very close to King Arthur, but he is holding a sword. To my recollection there are rarely any promotional images of him holding a blade. Is this a clue? Will he be the one Emma needs to pull Excalibur from the stone? But what would the price be for doing so? It is sure to be steep and Emma may not even fully understand it. The image of Rumple in her head hardly seems infallible and trustworthy. What if the price she would pay would be losing Killian?

– Henry & Violet:

True Love couples share the distinction of meeting each other multiple times, sometimes unaware of the fact. Emma and Killian hold the record at 4 first meetings, Regina and Robin have met 3 times, while Snow and David twice. Henry and his first crush Violet have now met each other twice and it was very similar to the way in which Regina and Robin did in Season 3, the conversation (song) making them feel as if it’s happened before. It is uncertain what the future hold for Violet’s character, but I hope whoever her family is decides to stay in Storybrooke, so Henry will not suffer the pangs of adolescent heartbreak.

– Arthur & Guinevere:

Before the season began I had the feeling that no one in Camelot could be fully trusted. While Arthur is not being completely truthful of altruistic about wanting to reunite the dagger with Excalibur and make it whole, he did earn some trust by standing with our heroes to help save Robin Hood. Of course that could still be a facade. But Guinevere on the other hand seems far more untrustworthy at the moment and her preoccupation with Excalibur is suspicious.

Screencap sources:

http://screencapped.net/tv/onceuponatime/index.php

http://genrecaps.net/onceuponatime/index.php?cat=9

http://c-odonoghue.com/pictures/

1Oct2015

Once Upon a Time : “The Dark Swan” Further Thoughts

Posted in Once Upon a Time, Television Reviews by Marianne Paluso

As some of you may know in addition to writing on here, I also do weekly reviews of Once Upon a Time for The Nerd Machine. My review for the Season 5 premiere “The Dark Swan” is here. But something I also wanted to do was some further thoughts for each episode that I did not have room for in my initial review. I am not sure if I will do these for each episode, but goodness knows there is always so much to contemplate and explore further. For “The Dark Swan,” here are some additional things to note:

– Hands and Hearts:

I was overwhelmed by the feedback I was received for the article Captain Swan: A Story of Hands and Hearts Entwined Thank you so much for that. On that note I was so happy to see that this emphasis on hands and hearts continued in this first episode of Season 5. Indeed it was not even subtle to say the least. Firstly, Killian takes Emma’s hand to lead her into the forest towards Granny’s, a sign of comfort and normalcy that she needed. And wasn’t the way they swing their arms so sweet?

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But even more significant was when, once again, they show the two of them walking together and make a point to show Killian entwining their fingers together in a close up. This gesture is one of love, hope strength, as well as further validation of the belief that they can take on anything as long as they are together.

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The ways hearts were emphasized in this episode was also significant and what was amazing was that we got a parallel to the scene from 2×9 “The Queen of Hearts.” In that scene two hearts were saved: Killian saves Aurora’s (an innocent) heart from falling into the portal, Emma saves her mother’s heart. Additionally, Emma’s heart could not be taken and Cora was blasted back by magic. In both cases these hearts were saved by heroism, love, and protection. In the Dark Swan, we see some clear parallels. Killian attempts to take Zelena’s heart (Cora’s daughter), and is blasted back by magic- a protection spell. Later on, Merida’s heart (another innocent) was saved through love. Just as Emma’s love and protectiveness of her mother saved her heart, Killian’s love and protectiveness of Emma helped her make the right choice and return Merida’s heart. Although, it is not their own hearts, the emphasis placed on the heart motif for their characters only further solidifies how they are undeniably entwined. And calling all you lovely gif makers I would love to see a gif set highlighting these parallels!!

– Killian can still take a heart:

Killian’s Hook is still enchanted and don’t think that does not mean something. How it comes into play is uncertain. Just remember the last time this happened it was not forgotten. He tried to take Cora’s heart but couldn’t because it was not in her chest. So it remained enchanted and allowed him to later on take Aurora’s heart. There are many theories out there, one being that he may take his own heart out in order to get though to Emma. That would be dramatic and heart wrenching indeed. Bravo to tough-lass for making me cry at just the thought of this.

– She was just holding my hand:

As emmasawn pointed out, the first thing Killian does when they arrive back in Storybrooke is look toward his hand. This is because the last thing they remember is walking into Camelot, so the last thing Killian remembers is holding Emma’s hand. So when he awakes here he looks for her and she is gone. Cue hearts shattering!!

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– Killian’s prominence and finale and premieres parallels:

I always think the ways finales and premieres (both beginning and midseason) are good indicators as to where certain story points may lead. For example in the Season 3 premiere “The Heart of the Truest Believer” Gold tells Emma she has never taken a real “leap of faith.” In the mid season premiere “New York City Serenade” she ends up doing just that. She takes a leap of faith and drinks the memory potion that Hook gives her. The finale of Season 3 “There’s No Place Like Home” ends with the friendship between Regina and Emma and Regina’s happiness with Robin thwarted. The last one on screen was Elsa. In the Season 4 premiere “A Tale of Two Sisters”, the first one we see in Storybrooke on screen is Elsa. Moreover, the episode ends with Emma promising to help Regina get her happy ending. And how did season 4 go: with a emphasis on that friendship and Emma fulfilling that promise. Following this pattern, Killian’s prominence seems only natural. The last words of Season 4 were Emma saying “I Love You” to Killian, and he was the last person seen on screen. In the Season premiere, although he is not alone on screen, Killian is at the center of the first scene in Storybrooke. The episode ends with Killian asking Emma why she is doing this. He is the first we see when they return, the last one who speaks to Emma, and the last one we see on screen. This feels like a clear indicator that Killian, and his love story with Emma, will play a significant role in this current storyline- which is only natural given Killian’s significance to Emma and his inherent connection to The Dark One.

– Poetic Irony:

Not counting the alternate reality that Isaac wrote, which I do not because it was not really a curse, there is something quite significant about the current curse plaguing the core characters. Up until now Killian was the only character never to have been cursed with memory loss in Storybrooke. It is poetic that the first time this happens it was because of a curse forged by his true love Emma.

– Your touch keeps away the Darkness:

When Emma hugged both Killian and Henry, the image of Rumple disappears, her two true loves helping the darkness disappear even if just for a moment. I wonder if this will lead Emma to trying to keep them close by all the time, especially Killian. Henry seems less likely as she would want to protect him, but Emma knows Killian is capable so it would seem natural for her to seek out his touch and want him to hold her quite often.

-Disney References Abound:

I am sure most people caught onto the resemblance of the Camelot castle to Sleeping Beauty’s castle in Disneyland. But there were more Sleeping Beauty parallels in this scene that were lovely, which you can see here:

And calling all gif makers, I would love to see a gif set of this please!

Lastly, I was not surprised that the movie young Emma saw at the beginning of the episode was The Sword in the Stone give the inclusion this season of characters such as King Arthur and Merlin. But what makes me happy and excited for what is to come was that this is also the move in which Merlin says that Love is “The most powerful force on earth.” Give that Once Upon a Time lives by the theme “True Love is the most powerful magic of all” I cannot wait to see what is in store for the rest of the season. Whether is it love for or given by Emma (cough she truly loves Killian), Love is bound to be a powerful force in Emma’s battle against the darkness.

25Sep2015

Captain Swan: A Story of Hands and Hearts Entwined

Posted in Once Upon a Time, Television Reviews by Marianne Paluso

On Once Upon a Time, True Love and romance is as prevalent as magic and curses. And while every love story as its own kind of special beauty, such as the iconic characters of Snow White and Prince Charming, the show’s most exquisite and remarkable love story is that of their daughter, Emma Swan, and the dashing pirate Killian Jones, better known as Captain Hook. There are an abundance of reasons as to why their story is so extraordinary: the way it has slowly developed, the fact that they are true kindred spirits that understand, support and build each other up, and the way these two lonely souls have begun to heal the wounds in their guarded hearts. There is also the unique quality of being a story completely of the show’s creation. Emma Swan is a brand new and exceptional character, and while Captain Hook is an iconic character, this depiction is one that has no resemblance to any version of this character we have ever seen on screen. One of the most beautiful aspects of this relationship is the symbolism and motifs employed as we have seen their relationship blossom. Their story is one of hands and hearts entwined, from the what they say to one another, to the emphasized visual cues and close-, ups, the connection between Emma and Killian is meant to be felt and seen.

That is not to say that other characters and stories do not share these symbolic aspects. Hearts have been a staple on the show since its beginning and each couple has seen hearts removed, saved, returned, and even shared. The same can be said on an emphasis on entwined hands, seen mostly in Season 4, where you could see a significant difference between the times when hands are joined and when an outstretched hand is denied that union. But when it comes to Emma and Killian, the frequency and emphasis of these entities within the framework of the story is significant and have always been there on a consistent basis since the beginning of their journey. And not only are their hearts and hands entwined, there is a beautiful showcase of the importance of affection and connection through touch, to demonstrate the bond they undeniably share. All of these aspects combined are meant to not only give the Captain Swan story an added layer of beauty to their relationship, but also reveal to the audience how Emma and Killian are specifically meant to be entwined forever.

“Holding hands is a promise to one another that, just for a moment, the two of you don’t have to face the world alone.”

Since Emma and Killian’s first adventure together we have seen both an emphasis on their hands and touch, and it has grown and developed consistently along with their relationship. The closer they have grown, the more touch becomes a part of how they show affection and significantly, and the more emphasis has been placed on their hands joined together. This has been there since the beginning. When they climb the beanstalk (2×6 “Tallahassee”) they make their first real connection and discover a mutual understanding and attraction. And how do they first show this, you may ask? With a scene where Killian bandages Emma’s injured hand. What was also significant was this was that in tending to her wound, it established that these two would begin to heal the internal wounds both of them possesses. Moreover, in the following scenes we also see established Emma’s fears of trusting others juxtaposed against the symbolic difference between hands united and hands pulled apart. When Emma obtains the magical compass they needed, Killian is impressed. Ready to join her on the next step of their journey, he offers her his hand saying, “Come, let’s go.” He’s offering her a sign of trust and camaraderie, and when she takes his hand he looks at her with hope and sincerity. She wants to trust him, but is afraid, and can’t take the chance that her instincts are wrong, so she handcuffs him and leaves him there, breaking (for the time being) the bond they had just formed. It is a perfect example of the symbolic difference between hands joined (trust and connection) versus hands pulled apart (division and pain).

Importantly, the bond they formed was not completely severed. It was simply frayed, and soon it not only is reestablished but steadily grew as their relationship did and the trust blossomed again. So it is no coincidence that the next step in that developing trust once again featured an emphasis put on their hands. When Killian turns his ship around and gives the magic bean back, Killian makes a great change in his life and Emma slowly begins to trust him again. Back on his ship they make a point to show Emma placing the bean in his hand- an object that they had also learned of while atop the beanstalk, and the one that allowed Killian to get to Storybrooke in the first place. Everything is connected.

Another clear demonstration of the connection between Emma and Killian and that this love story was a journey they were meant to be on together was that Killian was written as the one who finds Emma in New York City, with the help of once again, a magic bean. (3×11 “Going Home). So it should be no surprise to see a parallel to their moment in “Tallahassee.” Another close up is shown of his hand offering and asking once again for a sign of trust- he is handing her a potion that can restore her memories. And just like before, she refuses and handcuffs him. The difference between this episode, “New York City Serenade,” and the previous is that this time Emma changes her mind. She decided to trust him and takes a leap of faith.

That sign of belief and emphasis on how they are meant to be united is seen right before their next adventure and turning point in their relationship. When they are being pulled into Zelena’s time portal (3×21 “Snow Drifts), they desperately grasp hands, and we again see a close up of this union. When Emma is pulled away that connection is severed mirroring what happened in “Tallahassee.” Emma leaves him, but this time much has changed. Not only did she not want to, but this time, he was able to follow and make sure their connection would not remain broken.

And it is also no coincidence that on this adventure to the past, there was more emphasis put on physical contact between the two characters. Not that they had never had any before- and much is significant because it involved two things that will consistently be seen as their love grows: touching each other’s hair and cradling their heads when they are kissing or hugging. On their trip to the past though, gentle touches were abound: taking Emma’s hand to lead her on the dance floor, holding her when they watch Snow “die,” softly wiping away her tears. These moments were Killian’s way of showing Emma he cared and would be there for her, something that has only deepened since. In fact, that gentleness and support has not only grown, but is now reciprocated.

After they return home, the prominence of Emma and Killian’s hands entwined increased incredibly so, paralleling not only that they trust each other but that they are falling deeply in love, establishing that this connection has become one that can no longer be severed. That final turning point came when Emma nearly froze to death (4×2 “White Out”). When Elsa blasts a hole through the cave so they can escape, we see an image of Killian reaching his hand out towards Emma. He is there for her, and when she departs she falls into his arms, embracing him tightly and cradling his head. And when they are back home, Emma safe in his arms, we see the first close up of Emma truly entwining her fingers with Killian’s- a gesture Emma does to show him and herself comfort. She is happy to be safe and that he is there with her.

“I can conquer the world with one hand as long as you are holding the other.”- (x)

When Emma asks Killian out on a date (4×4 “The Apprentice”), the first thing he does is seek out Gold to have his hand reattached. His reason is quite romantic: “Should things go well and she wants me to hold her, I want to use both hands.” True as this is, another motivation is so he can be “good enough” for Emma and the kind of man she deserves. He is both confident and insecure. What is beautiful in its way is that he did not have to think this way. She wants to be with him. Though she clearly enjoyed Killian having both hands, taking every opportunity to take his hand. Where he was the one to reach out, now Emma is reciprocating that gesture, entwining their fingers, and in moments to show him comfort when he was worried he may have ruined their evening. But his fears are needless. The close ups of their hands joined and of his wrapped around her as they kiss goodnight are meant to demonstrate their newfound closeness.

One should also note that Killian having both hands is not important to Emma. She surely enjoyed it, but does not find it necessary, nor does it alter her feelings. We see this at the beginning and end of the episode when it takes a moment for her to even notice when he does and does not have his hand. She is too busy smiling and looking into his eyes.

The beautiful idea that we can conquer the world with one hand as long as the one we love is holding the other, feels like a perfect representation of Killian and Emma’s feelings, especially because Killian only has one. When Emma shares a box of childhood mementos (4×5 “Breaking Glass”), she finds a video of her and her childhood friend Lily, and once again we see a close up of their hands. This time Killian entwines their fingers together saying “I’d love to know more about your beginnings.” He is showing the same support and comfort that she had been showing him, and even when he puts his arms around her, their hands remain together. It is only when they see Ingrid on the tape that they are scared and shocked into letting go.

This is just another example of what hands united means, and that they are two characters that are connected physically and metaphysically. Together they are strong, safe and loved. Apart they are scared, insecure and isolated. Emma and Killian mirror each other in this sense both fearing their hands- Killian believing his hand was cursed, Emma that her magic was going awry. (4×4 “The Apprentice, 4×8 “Smash the Mirror”). Both were frightened of hurting someone, and both were isolated, two specific shots of them looking down at their hands in fright, solidifying their connection to each other.

When Killian finds Emma’s hand print in Gold’s shop his fear is potent that he might lose her, and then his relief is overwhelming when he finds her safe and hugs her tightly. It is no surprise that after that moment, Emma’s touch becomes a beautiful and often repeated gesture. She begins to show her affection for him in this way, more so than ever- touching and stroking his face, cradling his head, holding onto his arm, and resting her head onto or pressing their foreheads together. She feared expressing the words verbally, so their bond is symbolized in every affectionate gesture that she shows him.

Importantly, after that moment in “Smash the Mirror” there are few times when they are not holding hands. Even if it’s not always visible, it is clear that their hands are joined.

One important scene is when the fairies are released from the Sorcerer’s Hat (4×12 “Darkness on the Edge of Town”). Their hands never part and in one significant instant, their joined hands are in the foreground, Emma bathed in golden light, Killian in the shadows. Emma refuses to let go and their hands in the center of the shot symbolizes that this union combines both light and dark and that together they balance each other. Another scene that demonstrates this unwillingness to let go is when Emma promises to see the best in Killian. She takes his hand and sits them down for a honest heart to heart. They did not need to keep their hands entwined, but they did, showcasing how their bond keeps them strong.

Holding hands is a lovely sign of love and for Emma and Killian is unquestionable. But also undeniable is the emphasis on their hands that displays how these two characters are written specifically as meant to be joined together.

“I carry your heart with me (I carry it in my heart)

I am never without it (anywhere
I go you go, my dear; and whatever is done
by only me is your doing, my darling)
I fear no fate (for you are my fate, my sweet)

I want no world (for beautiful you are my world, my true)
and it’s you are whatever a moon has always meant
and whatever a sun will always sing is you.”

– E.E. Cummings

If the emphasis on Emma and Killian’s hands entwined was meant to show the connection they have in a physical way that is an emblematic sign of love, the way their hearts are entwined solidifies that their story is not only one of remarkable beauty, but also one that was always meant to be felt and seen by the characters and the audience. When the two make their connection atop the beanstalk (2×4 “Tallahassee”), Emma notices Killian’s tattoo. It is a heart, with the Dark One dagger going through it, and Milah’s name written across it. It was representation of the way his first love died, though considering the current storyline with Emma, it was also a clear foreshadow.

In fact the way Killian’s character was introduced on the show only further validates Emma and Killian’s connection as one of perfect balance, compatibility, and poetic beauty. He loses his hand and sees the heart of the woman he loves crushed, both at the hands of The Dark One. This sent him on his path of revenge that eventually led him to Emma and back to the light. He fell in love with her only for the Dark One to take his love away again. But before we reach that conclusion, we must first examine how much their hands and hearts are made the focus. Their hearts are entwined in more than one way as we see parallels to their stories and a blossoming love between them.

When Killian was still villainous, he takes Aurora’s heart for Cora, but during a showdown at Lake Nostos, he saves it from falling into the portal saying “I bristle at the thought of a woman losing her heart, unless it’s over me.” Emma sees him save a heart, and a glimpse of the heart of the man he truly is. Despite the fact that Emma knocked him out after this, we know that he awoke to witness the next pivotal moment. Just as Emma saw him save a heart, he sees her save one too. When Cora tries to take Snow’s heart, Emma pushes her out of the way, and when Cora can’t take Emma’s heart she is blasted back with magic. Love is strength and we see Emma and Killian’s hearts become entwined. This parallel continues in Season 4 in much the same way a fear of their hands was paralleled. Their hearts were entwined in their shared experiences. Killian has his heart taken by Gold and made to do dark things so Gold can gain everything he wants. When he does not succeed he plans to darken Emma’s heart for very much the same goal. Again he doesn’t succeed, at least indirectly, but in the end her heart is darkened.

The emphasis on their hearts entwined is also seen in the many things Killian says to Emma. How he feels is framed within discussion of her heart, showcasing that how he feels relates to what she wants. It is about her choices, feelings, and ability to open up. In Neverland he says, “When I win your heart Emma- and I will win it- it will not be because of any trickery. It will be because you want me.” (3×7 “Dark Hollow). He makes her a promise but it is based on what she wants. The choice is hers which is important for a character who has had crucial choices made for her. But who she gives her heart to is completely up to her. In Storybrooke, after having revealed her life with Walsh was a sham, having had her heart broken, he says “If it can be broken, it means it still works.” (3×14 “The Tower”). He is glad she is still open to love because that would mean she still could choose him. It gives him hope. And he is willing to wait.

This what makes what he says so beautiful when they are together: “Emma, I can tell your heart is uneasy. And it’s my job, at least I hope, it’s my job to protect your heart. Even when nobody is physically trying to steal it.” (4×20 “Mother”). Now that he has won her heart, he wants to make sure it is safe, not only physically but emotionally. He only wants her to be happy. Their hearts are entwined in love so her pain is his pain. He will protect her in any way he can much in the same way she will protect him. This is seen subtlety with Emma but it is undeniably there. After she returns his heart to his chest, Emma often places her hand over his heart, a symbolic gesture of both love and protection. She is guarding his heart.

“And my heart’s at home when my hand is holding yours.”

The symbolic gesture of Emma placing her hand over Killian’s heart is echoed in the Season 4 finale “Operation Mongoose Part 2,” in a moment that was a exquisite culmination of their journey of hand and hearts entwined and how these were always meant to be so. He lost his first love and his hand to the Dark One within moments of each other. But then he found Emma, a woman whose heart cannot be taken and will hold his hand when she is ready to open that guarded heart. He vows to win her heart and when he does he promises to protect it. And in the final few moments, the same evil is about to take the one he loves away again. But this moment is not the same. True Love is stronger than darkness and this moment is filled with love and hope and makes their entwined hands and hearts a solid and enduring emblem of their love story. As she tells him “I Love You,” Emma places Killian’s hand over her heart, much in the same way she has been placing her hand over his. It is a sign of protection and love but ever more significant because their hands are also entwined; it is a symbol of the strength of their bond. As long as they remember their love and that strength, darkness will not prevail. They can conquer the world together. Their hands are joined, their hearts beat as one, and both were always meant to belong together.

“Find my hand in the darkness and if we cannot find the light, we will always make our own.”

– Tyler Knott Gregson

19Sep2015

Once Upon a Time Favorite Character Moments: Killian Jones/Captain Hook

Posted in Once Upon a Time, Television Reviews by Marianne Paluso

Signature Line: “A man unwilling to fight for what he wants, deserves what he gets.”

Killian Jones, also known by his more colorful moniker Captain Hook, is an old fashioned, swashbuckling, sexy, charming, handsome, flirtatious, and adventurous pirate. He may deem himself a dashing rapscallion, but in truth he is also exceptionally sincere, loving, gentle and tender. Strong in his motivations and convictions, Killian spent most of lifetime seeking revenge on The Dark One, but found hope again and learned to move past vengeance and tread the path of good, embarking on the hero’s journey he and his older brother dreamed of when he was a young Lieutenant. Meeting Emma Swan changed his life in a remarkable way and he found that love was not only possible again, but that it could be the most beautiful and extraordinary love imaginable and inspire you to be a better person. And when Killian loves, he loves with his whole heart. He fights for what he wants and believes in, and wants to be a honorable man. Killian Jones may always be a pirate, but that does not mean he is not also hero.

Favorite Moments:

“Killian tells Emma he traded his ship for her.” (Season 3, Episode 22 “There’s No Place Like Home”)

After returning from their time traveling adventure in the past, Emma rushes to find her parents, overjoyed that she is back to the home she has found in Storybrooke. All seems right with the world until she notices that someone very important isn’t with her. When she finds Killian outside Granny’s diner, she expresses her happiness and sincere gratitude for him finding her in New York City, much of which he tries to brush off with a small smile and simple “It was the right thing to do.” For so long we wondered and suspected how Killian was able to find Emma, but he had remained quiet about his efforts. And indeed even in this moment, he still acts rather casual about it telling her traded the Jolly Roger for a magic bean as if it was not a tremendous sacrifice. And in the exquisite moment when she asks “You traded your ship for me” and he replies simply “Aye” her look of amazement is beautiful matched only by his. With absolute sincerity he looks directly into her eyes so she will understand depth of this single word. And Emma understands the full breadth of everything he has done. He gave up his home to bring her back to hers. There is so much poignancy and beauty in this moment and for Killian what is remarkable is that the causal way he begins is because for him, his sacrifice may have been significant but not as significant as Emma is to him. Her happiness means more to him than a few planks of wood and a sail, and there is no greater sign of True Love. Losing his home did not matter so long as she found hers. And when she kisses him passionately, the Storybrooke sign symbolically illuminated in the background, we see that these two souls who were so lonely and lost have found a home in this little town, but more importantly with each other. On a show filled with magic, this moment of truth and love is one of the most magical we’ve ever seen.

“Killian tells Emma she is his happy ending.” (Season 4, Episode 15 “Poor Unfortunate Soul”)

If there was any other scene that matched the beauty of Killian telling Emma he traded his ship for her, it would be this moment equal in its purity, loveliness and meaning. So many of Killian’s best moments demonstrate his tremendous capacity to love, and the depth to which he has fallen in love with Emma Swan is unparalleled. He has found a happiness he never dreamed he would find and is so terrified to lose it, especially because he feels his villainous past will surely mean he will lose his happy ending. Emma wonders what his happy ending could be and his expression is absolutely heart wrenching. Barely over a whisper, with tears in his eyes he says “Don’t you know Emma? It’s you.” Brilliantly performed by Colin O’Donoghue the little breath he exhales after he reveals this truth showcases the brevity of this heartfelt confession. It is one thing to tell someone you love them, it is quite another to reveal they are your happy ending. And what it is truly beautiful is that he has already found it. There had been no promises of a future, no confirmation of love, with everything felt rather than said. But that did not matter to him. Simply being with Emma in any way she wanted was enough to make him happy forever. And in this exquisitely perfect moment Killian is telling Emma she is his everything and I cannot imagine a more beautiful declaration.

“Killian swears on the name of his true love, seeking forgiveness, only to have his lips cursed.” (Season 3, Episode 17 “The Jolly Roger”)

This moment for Killian was intense and dramatic for so many reasons. He was so wracked with guilt for choosing to save his ship instead of Prince Eric, he begs Ariel to forgive him, saying he is empty and thought his ship would fill the void left by his broken heart. But he knew how wrong he was and would doing anything to make things right. In order to prove his sincerity Ariel asks him to swear on the name of his true love, and so came the line that still makes me feels as intensely as the captain surely did in this moment. It was so significant to hear Killian admit his love for Emma for the first time with the line “I Swear On Emma Swan,” and the instant we see that Ariel was in fact Zelena I gasped. His lips are able to be cursed so that the next time his touch Emma’s all of her magic will be taken. When he bravely stands up and refuses to let her plan to hurt Emma come true, she threatens her parents and Henry to which he says “Do not go near them!” a moment as significant as his admittance of love for Emma because we see that he not only deeply cares for her and is protective of Emma, but her family as well. The fierceness in his voice is fantastic and that revelation, beautiful!

“Killian leaves a tearful confession on Emma’s voicemail.” (Season 4, Episode 8 “Smash the Mirror”)

When Killian sought out Gold to have his hand rightfully returned, he did not dream it would turn into secrets and blackmail. But he let himself get tricked and wrapped up with his foe, and was too ashamed to reveal any of these mistakes to Emma. When he realizes that Emma has sought out Gold to get rid of her magic forever, he knows Gold plans to trick her as well and trap in her inside the Sorcerer’s hat. Fraught with panic and anger he leaves a tearful confession on Emma’s voicemail relaying the truth and shame about not being completely honest with her because now he may lose her. It was heartbreaking to hear him say he failed at trying to be a better man for her, but even more poignant is that moment he says he hopes she never forgives him because that would mean she will have gotten this message in time to save herself. A sure sign of true love is a desire to protect and wish nothing but happiness for the one you love. It would devastate him to lose her romantically, but for him it would be even more devastating if she lost herself and her life forever.

“With no memories of his real self, Killian sacrifices himself so Emma and Henry can escape.” (Season 4, Episode 22 “Operation Mongoose Part 2”)

In the alternate reality our fairy tale characters were written into, Killian was not Captain Hook, but a shy, meek and cowardly deckhand who was to afraid to stand up to Captain Blackbeard. But when he meets Henry who convinces him to help rescue his mother Emma, his true nature was allowed to shine through. After rescuing Emma from a tower, the two defeat a dragon, and she gives him a little lesson in sword fighting. The closeness and instant connection is deeply felt and he smiles sweetly when she reveals that in their true reality they are indeed very close. All was well until the evil counterparts of Snow and Charming arrive threatening to kill Henry and Emma. Despite being written as a coward, his heroism came though as he tells Emma to save her boy while he holds them off. And the moment we think he just may succeed he is stabbed by Charming in the back, reaching out for Emma as she watches the man she loves die before her eyes. He sacrifices himself for two people he barely knew proving not only the connection they are meant to always have no matter the time or place, but also a beautiful truth about his character: he is a hero.

“Killian finds Emma in New York City and tries True Love’s Kiss to restore her memories.” (Season 3, Episode 11 “Going Home”)

There are so many things I loved about this moment. One was that when it first aired I vividly remember jumping out of my seat with joy and excitement when Emma opened the door to Killian after such a heartbreaking scene where Emma said goodbye to her loved ones where I admittedly was balling. Another was the look of complete and utter joy on his face as if he had seen the ocean for the first time. You can see how much he missed her in his radiant smile and the way he says her name “Swan.” But the best part of this moment was when he tries True Love’s Kiss hoping to restore her memories. For a brief instant she loses herself and closes her eyes before she pushes him away and shuts the door on this man claiming she needs to remember her family who is in trouble. I just loved how much hope Killian shows that his feelings may be reciprocated, obviously not knowing that it could not possibly work when she has no memories of him. It solidified beautifully how Emma gave him hope when he had lived for so long without any, and that these two were on a very special journey together.

“Killian vows to Emma he will win her heart without any trickery.” (Season 3, Episode 7 “Dark Hollow”)

So many moments with this dashing pirate captain give me butterflies and none more so than the moment he vows to win Emma’s heart and it is a lovely scene that showcases some of Killian’s best qualities. He is romantic, believes in being honorable, confident but also insecure, passionate, and patient. Hoping the kiss they shared meant something to her, she says what did mean something was revealing that Neal was still alive, somewhat surprised he did because he is a pirate. While he gives a sad smile in agreement, he then steps forward and looks directly into her eyes, wanting Emma to understand his intent and earnestness. He says with confidence that he believes in “good form” and that he will win her heart, but it will not be because of any trickery, but because she truly wants him. He may seem confident but what is touching is that he is also being completely vulnerable with her, laying his heart on the line while promising to win hers. It is a poignant moment showing that no matter what he wants, what matters is what she wants. It is an incredibly romantic moment built on a promise of respect and adoration.

“Killian saves David’s life.” (Season 3, Episode 5 “Good Form”)

Their friendship may have had a rocky start, but when Killian takes David to Dead Man’s Peak under the ruse of searching for a sextant, they went from foes to unlikely friends. Killian knew David well enough that he had to lie about his true reason for their journey. When David collapses Killian breaks through the forest of thorns surrounding the water that will save his life, with an amusing little annoyed “Bloody Hell” before he does so. But he still does it. When he revives the prince, he reveals the truth about their trek: that he knew him well enough to know he was stubborn (honorable) and would not do anything that could be deemed as selfish, but if he drinks the water he will be cured. Of course he reveals the harsh truth about his cure- once he drinks it he can never leave Neverland. David understands and when the water miraculously works he smiles with gratitude. Of course David asks why he would do something when he would get nothing in return. Killian simply smiles, winks, and says “I didn’t do it for you, mate.” Of course part of him probably did do it for him, but David understands that Killian’s real motivation was for Emma so she would not lose her father yet. It was start of a great understanding between these two characters and another step in Killian’s journey back to toward heroism.

“Killian, in disguise as Prince Charles, says he would go to the end of the world for his true love.” (Season 3, Episode 22 “There’s No Place Like Home”)

There are infinite reasons to adore the episodes where Emma and Killian travel back in time and must work to correct their mistakes of interrupting her parents first meeting. One scene is the incredibly touching one where Killian and Charming discuss true love. Set to marry someone as part of essentially a business transaction, Charming wonders if true love even exists. But Killian assures him that it does. He once felt the same but when he met the right person everything changed. He tells Charming he would go to the end of the world for his love, despite not knowing if she would do the same. There is something so incredibly special about the duality of this moment. Not only is it truly touching to hear the once lonely, hopeless and cynical pirate convince the man who is the epitome of faith and belief in love that this pure abstraction does exist, but also that Killian is essentially telling the father of the woman he loves how deeply he cares for her. He would do anything for her, and whether it was inadvertent or not he gains some sort of approval from her father. Heartwarming and lovely, there is nothing I do not adore about this scene.

“Killian says he hopes it’s his job to protect her heart and helps Emma forgive her parents.” (Season 4, Episode 20 “Mother”)

In a sweet and gentle moment Killian takes Emma to the docks and proves to be calming and understanding presence in Emma’s life. Killian says he knows her heart is still uneasy and he feels like it’s his job, or at least he hopes it’s his job, to protect her heart. Emma assures him her heart is safe, but he reveals what he is truly speaking of is the rift between herself and her parents. Killian explains that perhaps they did not tell her everything because they were ashamed and they wanted her to like them, and wisely how they tried to protect her because they wanted her to be happy and to make her proud. And even when she tries to deflect towards her admiration of his good heart, he doesn’t simply hold her out of appreciation for her admiration, easy and welcoming as that would be. He cares more about what will ease her suffering. In another truly wonderful example of how much he cares for both Emma and her family, this is a shining example of the how love can inspire us. Killian obviously perfectly understood how her parents felt, feeling similar shame and not always wanting to reveal his past wrong doings because wanted to be seen as worthy of her. But importantly, he knows this is not about him, or even the two of them together, enjoying a quiet moment for themselves they so rarely are granted. This moment was about helping guide Emma towards forgiveness and indeed this wisdom does lead her on this path and it was profoundly moving and lovely.

“Killian travels with his brother Liam to Neverland by command of the Royal Navy.” (Season 3, Episode 5 “Good Form”)

Seeing the earnest, loyal and innocent man Killian was as a young Lieutenant serving in the royal navy with his older brother Liam was one of Once Upon a Time’s greatest back stories. From the pure delight at seeing them take to skies in the ship thanks to a sail made out of Pegasus wings, to the natural ease between the two brothers, this dynamic was wonderful to watch. It also makes his friendship with David even more special seeing the similarities between David and his brother. But most significantly, seeing how much he loved and admired his brother was sweet and touching and helped to bring depth and understanding to his character. He never lost his belief in good form, but seeing his brother die because of the lies told to them by who they thought was a fair king, makes his straying away from the light understandable. My heart broke for Killian when Liam dies in his arms. And his great desire for a hero’s journey makes his journey back towards the light even more moving.

“Killian is frantic when Emma nearly freezes in an ice cave, and overcome with relief when she is safe.” (Season 4, Episode 2 “White Out”)

When Emma is trapped in a ice cave the desperation in his voice and on his face, and his attempts to break through the ice are moving and show both the depth of his love for her and absolute and incredible fear of losing her. These moments are matched by the relief on his face when she is freed, the ferocity with which he hugs and holds onto her, and the constancy of his presence when they bring her back home, never leaving her side as he puts his arms around her to keep her warm, holds her hand and never leaves his kneeling position as she cuddles into his shoulder. He would have stayed there forever with her, simply happy she is safe and in his arms.

“Killian teaches Emma to waltz.” (Season 3, Episode 21 “Snow Drifts”)

As vulnerable and insecure as Killian can often be, there is a side to him who is very charming and confident. He surely longed for a moment where he could impress Emma and sweep her off her feet, and his moment came in one of the most romantic ways imaginable. They need to blend in at King Midas’s Ball so he leads her out onto the dance floor with a suave and debonair ease as he tells her there is only rule to a waltz- “Pick a partner who knows what he’s doing.” He proves to be an ideal partner for her, easing her nervousness, teaching her to dance, and being ever the gentleman, commenting on her natural ability. And in this moment there are no looming dangers- he is simply holding this amazing woman in his arms whose smiles are matched by his beaming expression. He does indeed sweep Emma off her feet and makes her first dance at a royal ball a special one. This is one of the happiest moments of the entire series.

“Killian bandages Emma’s injured hand.” (Season 2, Episode 6 “Tallahassee”)

In what is now a truly classic scene, Captain Hook bandages the hands of a very stubborn Emma who insists she is fine, and does so in a way that makes Emma’s (and the audience’s) breath catch. With only one hand he must get creative in aiding her, so he uses his mouth to tie the bandage around her hand. The intense chemistry and attraction between the two characters was born, and things would never be the same.

“Killian reveals his deepest secret- that he never thought he could find someone to love again until he met Emma.” (Season 3, Episode 7 “Ariel”)

It was probably not the way Killian wanted to first tell Emma how he had truly grown to care for her, but knowing only revealing your deepest secret would help to rescue Neal in the echo cave, he takes a deep breath and reveals that kissing Emma exposed something quite profound. He never thought he would be able to let go of his first love Milah and find someone else, that is until he met Emma. The genuineness of his confession was revealed as the first part of the bridge towards Neal forms. There are so many amazing aspects to this scene. The fact that he is revealing his feelings in front of her parents is significant, but most important is the selfless part of his act because his secret was leading Emma back to a man she loved, and for all Killian knew still wanted to be with. He was afraid and uncertain but still was truthful and that is quite poignant.

“Killian turns his ship around and offers to help rescue Henry.” (Season 2, Episode 22 “And Straight On ‘Til Morning”)

What I loved most about the moment that Killian decided to turn his ship back around and not abandon Storybrooke to its fate was that it was an internal struggle and a decision made entirely on his own. Many times our characters need someone to ask them to change and someone to believe they can be good people. Captain Hook at this point was very much isolated and still subscribing to his self serving ways. But moments before he leaves Emma offered him a chance to be a part of something and join the community. And although he obviously contemplates using the magic bean he stole and leaving them all behind, Emma’s words clearly meant a lot to him. Alone of his ship with his thoughts, no one is there to tell he can be a good man if only he would come back. Instead, he makes that decision himself telling Emma he needed reminding that he could care about other people. He gave himself this reminder when he turned his ship around and then did not hesitate to offer up his ship to help rescue Henry. He was on his way back to becoming a true hero.

“Killian goes on his first date with Emma.” (Season 4, Episode 4, “The Apprentice”)

There was an abundance of lovely moments as Killian and Emma enjoyed a romantic first date together. From the awestruck expressions as they first saw each other dressed up, to the way they held hands and he held her gently, Killian relishing being able to use both hands for the first time in a century. And I cannot help but smile with glee that at some point he gave her his jacket to wear (I would love to see that scene revisited one day). He was able to do what Emma thought impossible- help her manage to forget about her troubles and threats to the town and simply have a wonderful night. He was finally able to give the savior a night off. But the most spine-tingling romantic movement was when his bright smile about her cramped living conditions turned to a look of such intensity and true vulnerability as he asks her for a second date. His expression is mixture of adoration, uncertainly and hope and Emma answers yes with a fervent goodnight kiss. And neither could handle it! This was the moment you saw how deeply they had fallen and it has only grown deeper since this passionate moment.

“Killian helps restore Ursula’s happy ending” (Season 4, Episode 15 “Poor Unfortunate Soul”)

After being unable to restore Ursula’s voice as he had hoped, she balks back saying he wrong. The only way a villain can get a happy ending is for the author to write them one. When darkness creeps back and he pulls a gun on her, she knocks him out and tosses him into the ocean. Luckily Ariel was nearby to rescue the pirate. She greets him with a slap which he knows he deserves and she lays down an important truth- villains don’t get happy endings because they go about trying to get them the wrong way. And with those words he has a revelation and asks for her help. Ariel brings Ursula’s father Poseidon to Storybrooke who returns her voice, happily reuniting father and daughter. In the end he was able to bring back her happy ending and reunite a family- two of things he longs for the most. This was a beautifully touching scene of acknowledging a past wrong and doing everything he could to correct it. He accepts Ursula’s gentle touch of contrition, but still doubts what the audience (and Emma) can clearly see. He is a good man.

Honorable Mentions:

“After the death of his brother Killian gives his crew an impassioned speech and the pirate is born.” (Season 3, Episode 5 “Good Form)

When Killian loses his brother he also loses his innocence. He and his brother followed orders from someone they believed was a good king and instead were lied to- and Liam suffered the consequences. In an impassioned speech he says they will no longer be sailing under the crown’s colors. They shall rename their ship the Jolly Roger and become pirates, taking what they want for “at least amongst thieves there is honor.” This was powerful and perfectly portrayed by O’Donoghue as we see the pirate born out a loss rather than pure greed.

“Killian tells a memory-less Henry about his father.” (Season 3, Episode 16 “It’s Not Easy Being Green”)

When Henry needs protecting from Zelena, Killian takes him to safety under the guise of teaching him about sailing and telling him about his late father. Of course Killian confuses Henry when he brings up teaching Neal to navigate when he was just a boy, leaving him simply wanting to know something true. What he reveals to him results is a truly heartwarming moment. He says he had taught Neal to sail hoping the sea would ease the sorrow of just losing his father. Killian tells him he has more in common with his father than he realizes and Henry smiles in appreciation. The sweetness of the scene is that he sees so much of young Balefire in Henry, and the hopes he had years ago of being a father figure are once again revisited. That is very touching.

Favorite Little Moments:

– The scene in which Emma shares mementos from her childhood was deeply moving and showed the profound and instinctual understanding he has of her feelings and ability to comfort her in the way she needs. Not only does he ask if he can have the honor of seeing a part of her past she rarely shared, but when he sees her sadness he simply holds her hand, puts his arm around her and lets her rest her head on his shoulder- a silent and beautiful form of comfort and solace Emma has rarely ever found.

(x)

– When Emma must say goodbye to her loved ones for what they believe will be forever, you can see the looks on their faces as ones of a life and love almost found. Instead of saying how he feels and making a promise she will be reunited with everyone, he vows something he knows he undeniably can. Killian promises Emma he will think of her every day, and she responds with a simple “good.” This hopeful response was her way of saying she was happy he would think of her and he sweetly smiles back at her, making her smile through her tears. There are not many moments as lovely and romantic as this one.

– Any time the dashing rapscallion side to Killian’s personality- the charming Captain Hook side- comes out is absolutely golden. Every time is incredibly sexy and, none more so than when he raises his eyebrows or when he tapped his lips asking Emma for a kiss, never thinking she would actually do it.

– When Killian tries to convince Emma to drink a memory potion despite her “good” life where she has a job and Henry and a guy she loves, his response of “Perhaps there’s a man that you love in the life that you’ve lost” is one of the purest forms of hope. He does not know if she returns his feelings, but his hope that she may means a great deal to him. And that little beat where he looks down with both hope and uncertainly is beautiful.

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– When he and Emma discuss whether she has considered Walsh’s marriage proposal, she says yes but as usual she got her heart broken. He is happy and she wonders why. It’s not because she is in pain. It is because if her heart can broken it means it still works. It is his way of telling her he is glad that her heart is still open to love.

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– When Emma finds him alive and hugs him so fervently, he believes she is finally going to tell him she love him. You can see the anticipation on his face as he nervously swallows and smiles brightly. But when fear stops her his face drops a bit. But instead of pressing her, he simply accepts her sincere gratitude and accepts his status as a hero, proving once again that all that matters is that he and Emma and there together, no matter whether affection is verbally expressed.

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– When he meets Emma for the first time (the fourth time) he is a shy deckhand and when he first sees her, he is so awestruck by her he literally must shake himself out of being entranced by her and offers his hand as a greeting. It was so beautiful to see this instant connection once again, especially with such a sweet and shy version of himself.

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– Any time Killian is overwhelmed or thrown for a loop by Emma it’s adorable such as when she asks him out on a date and misses the dart board by a mile. Clearly, as confident as he can be, she still makes him nervous. And the image of the two them walking down the street is so lovely as sweet. I don’t think we have ever seen Killian smile as brightly before.

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– Mere hours after meeting Emma, Killian recognizes the look in Emma’s eyes as that of an orphan, a lost girl. Truly kindred spirits from the beginning, his ability to look into her soul so astutely shows the strength of his heart. He can read her like an open book more so than anyone, and a remarkable love story began. Why else would he ask her if she had ever been in love?

– After Emma obtains the magical compass he offers his hand to her, ready for them to set back down the beanstalk together. As he says “come let’s go,” his face is sincere and full of hope, and you have to wonder what would have been different if Emma had not handcuffed him in this moment.

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– Captain Hook versus modern technology is one of the funniest things on earth. Some of the most hilarious moments include asking about Marty McWho, being force fed something called bologna while in jail, and not knowing what Netflix is.

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– When Emma must distract a past Captain Hook, she amusingly gets him quite drunk. Not enough that he can’t lift her up into his arms and carry her on to his ship, but enough that he gets the name of the ship wrong. There’s not many things as adorably hilarious as him saying “Behold the Rolly Joger!” Equally funny is when present day Killian watches Emma kiss his past self and he gets so jealous he punches him! Absolutely classic moment and one you could only see on Once Upon a Time.

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– When Emma returns Killian’s heart to his chest, you see the precise moment he begins to fully feel again as he looks at Emma with intensity and then precedes to passionately kiss her up against the wall. This moment is both romantic (she literally holds his heart in her hands) and sexy (he kisses with fervency). How can this not give you butterflies?

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– When Rumple is controlling Killian he forces him to tell Emma about the portal to Arendelle so Anna (who know for his identity) will not be able to reveal his past wrong doings. Emma can sense something is wrong, but he can say nothing. Despite that he manages to break from free control for a moment, grabbing Emma’s hand. In this brief moment he was screaming for help and letting her know something was wrong, showing the true strength of his will and his soul.

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– When Killian forces a smile while in pain, my heart shatters and none were as heart breaking as when he watches Emma and Henry greet the newest member of their Charming clan. He stands in the threshold of the hospital room, peering in with longing in his eyes, symbolically still separated from this example of a happy image of everything he wishes for himself deep in his heart- being a part of a family.

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– Even after everything he had gone through with Rumplestiltskin controlling his heart, he tells Belle that he did love her, trying to show her comfort that despite everything at least she knows that to be true. These two have sure come along way and it is lovely to watch.

– The iconic pirate moments are also a treat from the signature line he tells Rumplestiltskin “A man unwilling for what he wants deserves what he gets” to his fight with Captain Blackbeard aboard the Jolly Rogers that feels as if it’s straight out of a classic swashbuckling pirate films from a bygone era, these pirates moments are television gold.

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Favorite Reader Moments:

When it came to favorite moments for our beloved Captain Hook, readers did not hesitate to send in a plethora of amazing and remarkable moments, all of which showcase the varying and wonderful aspects of his character. The top 6 reader moments are:

Killian tells Emma he traded his ship for her in “There’s No Place Like Home”
Killian becomes a pirate in “Good Form”
Killian bandages Emma’s hand in “Tallahassee”
Killian leaves a tearful confession on Emma’s voicemail in “Smash the Mirror”
Killian vows to win Emma’s heart in “Dark Hollow”
Killian sacrifices himself for Emma and Henry in “Operation Mongoose Part 2”

The rest of the favorite moments are (in episode order):

Killian meets Rumplestilskin and says his iconic line in “The Crocodile”
Killian talks to Bae about his mother in “And Straight on Til Morning”
Killian turns his ship around in “And Straight on Til Morning”
Killian loses his brother Liam in “Good Form”
Killian tries True Love’s Kiss on Emma in “Going Home”
Killian, disguised in armor, robs a carriage in “The Jolly Roger”
Killian looks after Neal in the hospital and hugs him in “Quiet Minds”
Killian hugs Emma when she is freed from the ice cave in “White Out”
Killian picks up Emma for their date in “The Apprentice”
Killian gives Emma one last kiss before the shattered sight spell arrives in “Fall”
Killian not being affected by the spell of “Shattered Sight”
Killian is surprised by the faith she is putting on his in “Unforgiven”
Killian reunites Ursula with her father in “Poor Unfortunate Soul”
Killian tells Emma she is his happy ending in “Poor Unfortunate Soul”
Killian helps Emma forgive her parents in “Mother”
Killian anticipates Emma saying I Love You in “Operation Mongoose Part 2”

Thank you to the following readers for sending in their favorite Hook moments: Maii, Sheila, Lyublyana, Mimi, Hagit, Melissa, Meredith, Emily, Alyssa, and Sharon 🙂

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