Fashion Friday: Black and White Classic & Chic Styles

When it comes to our fashion choices we are have our own tastes and styles. But so often we find inspiration everywhere, from perusing Pinterest (one of my favorite pastimes) to being inspired by looks on our favorite entertainers. This first edition of Fashion Friday is about Classic Black and White styles that are timeless and inspired by some favorite looks I’ve seen and have recreated- and affordably.

This first look is inspired by this one I found on Pinterest that is a classic as it gets- a Polka dot blouse, skinny jeans, and pumps. Red jeans or pants are a bold choice and very cute, but another color jean is just as pretty. For my look I went with a black jean and a pop of color in my heels as opposed to my jeans.

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The entire look includes:

LC Lauren Conrad Polka Dot Blouse from Kohls 
Jessica Simpson Kiss Me Black Wash Super-Skinny Jeans from Macy’s $59.90
Merona™ Women’s Favorite Tank  from Target $9.00
Kelly & Katie Caris Mary Jane Pump from DSW

The Blouse and Pumps are no longer available but here are some similar styles:

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Original Fit Polka Dot Portofino Shirt $59.90

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Kelly & Katie Delany Patent Platform Pump $29.95

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Kelly & Katie Helena Pump $29.94

The outfit above was also inspired by this chic look below by Jennifer Morrison by simply adding a faux leather jacket.

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This jacket was a steal! I found it at Forever 21 for $20. It is no longer available, but check back periodically. It’s a classic style and more moto jackets will no doubt be available again.Meanwhile, I found some similar styles. If you can afford a real lather jacket I say go for it. But faux leather ones can be just as nice and a fraction of the price. Mine is super soft and obviously very affordable. Here are some more Black Faux Leather Jacket Similar Styles:

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Levi’s® Paper Pu Assym. Moto $69

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Women’s Faux Leather Moto Jacket – Black – Xhilaration $27.98

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Women’s Minimal Moto – Who What Wear ™ $44.99

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JASLENE FAUX LEATHER BIKER JACKET £30.00

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Classic leather-look jacket by Ellos® (Plus Size) $69.99-79.99

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Women’s Plus Size Minimal Moto Jacket – Who What Wear™ $49.99

Another classic black and white look that is inspired by the fair JMo is this one:

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Normally I would post the pic to compare, but I do not want to post paparazzi pics on my site. I saw this look online and you can find it if you wish to see it, but it won’t be shown here. But I can proudly say that my look is pretty close to hers. This is the same jacket from Forever 21, a black and white knit polka dot Xhileration dress from Target, Tall Black Aerosoles Boots and, blacks tights from Target. For a fun add of flair I am also wearing my Captain Hook replica necklace.

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Mine was a gift which I believe was purchased from It’s Posh (aka Mr. Gold’s) in Vancouver. But you can find one just like it on Etsy: Captain Hook Pirate Necklace Once Upon A Time $15.73

Lastly, what is more timeless than the Chanel Black Quilted Flap Back. I must admire that seeing Jennifer’s love for hers recently inspired me to finally look for one myself. It truly is a beautiful purse, and this chic bag never goes out of style.

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The real thing is sadly out of my reach as a Chanel purse can be upwards of $6000!! I know most of us can hardly afford to splurge, but that does not mean you cannot find a similar style that is pretty and much more affordable. Here is my fabulous find!

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This purse that is ” Channeling chic sophistication” is the Women’s Quilted Crossbody Handbag with Turn Lock Closure and Chain Strap – Merona™ from Target for $29.99.

Here are some other similar styles:

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Quilted Chain Strap Shoulder Bag $49.90

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Urban Expressions Sheena Crossbody Bag $29.95 (Available in Black)

So what are your favorite classic black and white looks? Who inspires your style? Are they any looks you all would like me to replicate? Sound off in the comments and let me know what you think of this first edition of Fashion Friday!!

Once Upon a Time: Firebird, Last Rites, An Untold Story and more Further Thoughts

A Journey of True Love:
It’s been a long and beautiful journey of True Love for Emma and Killian, and such a remarkable story indeed. Even without proof it was clear that the love they share is special and true. Emma marching into the Underworld to save Killian by sharing her heart with him was enough to prove the depth of her affection. And although it would’ve been a beautiful parallel to what her parents share, True Love is never easy. It never has been for these two and what was really moving was the way in which they proved their love – through selflessness and sacrifice. Moreover, in the end, although it may not seem as such, Emma and Killian’s hearts were still shared – they are entwined and it was both that connection and their love for each other, and what it inspired in each of them, that granted Killian his life back. True Love did save him. One of the most poignant parts of their True Love test was that it was Emma’s love that was in question. It’s interesting how Emma doesn’t question his love for her. At this point it’s beautiful that there’s not even a doubt of it because he’s proved his love for her over and over again; but then the fact that after all they’ve been through he still isn’t sure he’s worthy enough of the “rarest magic of all” is heartrending. But their test is about both of them ultimately. After nothing happens after Emma places her heart on the pedestal and they both look on devastated, that was the moment the test truly began. Emma fell over in pain needing her heart back in her chest while Killian was engulfed in flames in excruciating torment. But he tells her to get her heart and she saves him from the flames instead. The other person’s well-being was more important than whatever they were suffering. True Love encompasses many things but above all it’s about selflessness – loving someone so much that all that matters is their happiness, their life. This is what allowed them to let go of each other – heartbreaking as it was – and ultimately what saved him.

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Emma and Killian do not physically share a heart but there is a spiritual and inexplicable connection between them that exists on a profound level. It transcends realms and even death. And it’s what makes their farewell promises to each other so significant. Knowing that there is no leaving Underworld and moving on until one’s unfinished business is complete is why Killian was physically unable to move on. He promised Emma she would not be his unfinished business but he knows that Emma and her family are still in danger from Hades. It’s impossible for him to move on until he knows she is safe. For Emma, she can feel that he is still trapped, still in pain and she cannot grieve for him knowing such. This is what makes Killian’s quest so important for it is not only his love for Emma, but what she inspired within him that saved his life. She inspired the heroism that was always embedded in his soul, and he wouldn’t rest until those he loves were safe. That is beautiful. His peace was knowing they were free from danger. He helped get Emma what she needed and could just feel that she had succeeded, his path to heaven opening up that very instant. And when Zeus tells him it’s time to take him where he belongs it was clear where that was. He belongs with Emma and in the end their connection was his salvation. True Love prevailed.

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Amazing Parallels:
There were so many lovely and significant parallels in the end of the season with episodes that so often remain key to the story, as well as episodes from this season, namely the “Pilot,” “A Land Without Magic,” “Tallahassee,” “New York City Serenade,” and “Swan Song.” I loved seeing a direct mirror of Emma’s walk across the street to catch the man jumping bail in the “Pilot” to Cleo Fox doing the same thing to Emma.

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It became clear in “Firebird” how much Emma learned from Cleo and that much of her personality was just a mask – her armor was firmly on. It was good for making her brave and confident but it also left her closed off. It’s what makes the Emma we see now such an inspiration. She stronger and braver than she’s ever been for she is not only fierce and confident physically, but emotionally as well, her heart completely open to love, brave enough to love without walls and without condition. The parallels between “Firebird” and “Tallahassee” are also so remarkable – both of the episodes written by Jane Espenson and both revealing key moments in Emma’s past that shaped her life as well as both proving the importance of Killian in her life. The symmetry is so interesting visually and emotionally. They climbed up the beanstalk and descended down into the depths of the Underworld. And in both episodes Emma left Killian behind, the first time because she wasn’t ready to trust her heart, and the last because her heart was filled with True Love.

“Firebird” also parallels “A Land Without Magic” in striking ways. In both episodes Emma goes down the elevator in the library to retrieve something to save one of her true loves – Henry with the golden egg, Killian with the ambrosia. Also both times, what Emma sought is not what eventually saved them, it was the true love that did – a True Love’s kiss with Henry and her True Love with Killian that was selfless enough to let each other go and then help him on his quest that granted him his life back.

The parallel between their True Love moment and Killian’s sacrifice in “Swan Song” is also significant. In both moments we see one of them in horrible pain but technically not able to die. In “Swan Song” Emma as the Dark One is immortal but she can still feel pain and when Nimue chokes her, Killian wakes up from the darkness and comes back to the light, unwilling to watch the woman he loves in pain. “Firebird” is very much the same. Killian is dead but seeing him being engulfed in a sea of flames was too much for Emma to bear, so she chooses him over her beating heart. They always choose each other. How could anyone doubt the depth of their affection?

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Lastly the parallels we’ve seem to Once Upon a Time in Wonderland this season have been significant most especially the ones between Alice and Cyrus and Emma and Killian, from dialogue to the emotional similarities to their love stories. Both couples share a spiritual connection, their hearts entwined, always emphasizing that when you love someone you don’t need proof, you can just sense what they feel. Just like Alice never stops fighting for Cyrus, determined to save his life, so too does Killian and Emma who fight for each other. And although in the end they come together in very different ways, both journeys are built on an unbreakable bond and unfailing faith in each other. It’s also quite interesting that the wedding dress we’ve see in the window and Storybrooke is no longer the same one but now the one Alice wore on her wedding day. Look at the all of these amazing parallels:

Their hearts are entwined, sharing a spiritual connection.

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Cyrus and Killian both want their true loves to let them go, but Alice and Emma are determined to save them.

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When you truly love someone you can just feel what they are feeling and sense when they are near. 

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Tearful, intense moments where one lay dying and the other begs them not to leave.

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They can feel each other’s pain and just know and can sense what that they have done.

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Alice and Emma risked everything, traveling realms to save Cyrus and Killian, and both men are eternally grateful.

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Beautiful, Joyous Reunions

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Choices and People Saved:
We are products of our choices. That is an indisputable truth. Moreover, the dialogue employed on Once Upon a Time more often than not is deliberate and is reiterated in emotional, thematic, and plot levels. In my review for the premiere for 5B I wrote:

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Although some people were saved and some were lost that premise still rang true until the very end and like the endless tapestry of stories that Once Upon a Time is, each and every choice matters. If you take one thing away it changes the course of the story. It’s interesting how in season two Cora told Killian about Emma “You chose her.”At the time Cora considered it a betrayal. We don’t know how things may have been different if he hadn’t made that first choice. But that choice was the first step in what led them to fall in love and they were all now in the Underworld because of it.  And it helped Cora not only able to bring her daughters back together, but helped her find peace with herself and forgiveness from and between her girls. And in the end isn’t it poignant that Killian chooses to forgive Arthur and go on a quest with him that ends up restoring hope in a place that had been desolate for countless souls for years. Arthur found his broken kingdom to restore, so hopefully those souls will no longer be trapped and able to sort through their unfinished business without a vile villain lording over them. And all because of the true love of two very extraordinary heroes.

Beautiful Kisses:
The kisses Emma and Killian shared in the last episodes of season 5 were all so different but each exquisitely moving and beautiful moments for their characters made that way by the real and raw performances of Jennifer Morrison and Colin O’Donoghue. Seeing Killian truly cry for the first time was moving on its own but the moment he took Emma’s hand and kissed it – a moment that that was unscripted – was what made the scene even more stirring. Killian has always been one to hold it together and be strong for Emma. But this goodbye was different. We know how hard it was for Emma but it was also just as hard for him. He had hoped that the life he wanted to share with Emma was going to come true. But here their hope was gone, so saying goodbye was even more devastating. They don’t want to let go but they do – they just want to hold on as long as they can to each other. So he takes her hand and kisses it to show her that loving her was his great honor and grasps it for as long as he can, the looks on their faces ones of devastation and desperation. We’ve never seen that expression or such tears before from him, nor a kiss like this. And it was all made so moving by their extraordinary acting.

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The kiss that they shared when he miraculously returned is not only one of the most beautiful moments of the series but also one of the most beautifully performed. And I just loved their expressions, signs of affection and the way they try to make sense out of this miracle. They’re incredulous looks were matched in the way they approach each other. Killian can’t quite believe it whilst Emma runs into his arms so overcome with emotion. And the moment when they kiss is so beautiful. When he grabs her tighter, it’s like he couldn’t quite believe she was really there until she was in his arms and once he realizes that he’s going to hold on as tightly as possible.

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Emma’s amazed, overwhelmed expression here is also as moving as can be as he tries to explain what must’ve happened and she is just watching him with such love and incredible gratitude and that he is there. She still can’t quite believe it and cannot help but kiss him again.

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Her sweet cheek kisses and their smiles are also as pure as ever. After so much pain and heartache they were able to share a moment of unencumbered joy, before they hold each other looking onto their fallen friend, expressing the way we will cling tighter to those we love in times of tragedy and in times of overwhelming emotion and love. They are grateful but their expressions quickly turn to ones of sadness. No more smiles, just solemn sorrow. So perfectly performed and deeply felt.

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Equally profound and perfectly performed was the way Killian and Emma kissed after an “I Love You” that was in a moment of normalcy and it was such a special moment for their characters. As I said in my review:

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What is lovely to know is that for as many passionate and heartfelt kisses as they’ve shared he has never picked her up in such an ardent, romantic way. One might think that such a kiss wouldn’t come after a simple “I Love You” but Killian knows how much of a brave step this was for. And consider this: if they kiss like this after an “I love you,” can you imagine the affection they will show each other when they finally express that love physically, as well as ask to share their lives together in marriage. Those will surely be incredible moments of beauty to behold.

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Little Moments:
Sometimes it’s the small things that touch us so much – those little moments that make an already special scene even more so. These were the ones that moved me from the end of 5B.

– Gentle, Profound Affection:
The way they hold each other, the tears, the touches of her face, the way they cradles each other’s heads. It’s so beautiful, intimate and affecting. No one can compare to the beautiful authenticity these two bring to their shared moments.

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As if kissing her hand wasn’t poignant enough, the way Killian holds Emma’s hand as she slowly ascends, caressing her fingers so tenderly, it’s such a small but meaningful gesture. Their hands entwined has always been a significant part of their story, but what I love in this moment was that whether it was conscious or not, he’s stroking her ring finger. Although we know now that their future can still be bright, at this moment it’s as if he’s telling her he would’ve married her and no matter what their bond will never be broken.

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– Holding His Hook:
It warms my heart every time Emma holds Killian’s hook. It’s such a sweet and loving way of showing she accepts every part of him and for viewers with similarities I can only imagine how lovely it is to see such a positive depiction.

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– A Hug Between Brothers:
It has been a long time coming but seeing David hug Killian made me cry. These two men sure have come a long way – from unlikely allies to friends to family. Killian may be family now because of Emma but he also has become like a brother to David, so the fact that both men lost their brothers again in the Underworld is not lost on me. And seeing David reach out to him, after being so reluctant to trust him for so long is incredibly touching. I would’ve liked a longer, more prominent scene and some dialogue but there’s always next season. For now we have this hug to smile about.

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– A Last Kiss:
In what may be their final have a happy moment together (the incurable optimist in me still believes he perhaps can come back), Robin kisses Regina sweetly, gently rubbing his nose against hers. These little gestures of affection are not only sweet but showcase of realness that is truly lovely. And what I love is that it’s a gesture we’ve seen before. The morning after the first time they made love he does the same thing. In both scenes, they hold onto this moment of intimacy with a gentleness that is so beautiful.

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– A Charming Reunion:
David is a favorite character of for a myriad of reasons, one of which is that he is such an affectionate, caring father. We’ve not had many moments with him and his son, but when he takes his baby boy in his arms when he returns from the Underworld smiling and holding him with such adoration I was touched. And see him embracing his wife with the baby between them was so heartwarming. Is that not the picture of true love in all its forms? And perhaps it made him even more grateful because he saw his daughter had to leave her True Love behind for what they thought was forever. Of course now Snow and Charming will no doubt be delighted their daughter can have a happy ending with the man she truly loves. And I long to see before the series ends a similar moment between Emma and Killian with a child of their own.

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Unanswered questions:
As is often the case they will always be questions that remain unanswered each season. Many I can let go of and forgive but because the finale didn’t resolve everything from season 5 but instead introduced what is essentially next season’s story, there are some significant things that went by the waste side that I still wonder about.

– Was the dark curse Killian cast broken? It must have been because they were able to leave town without befalling the same fate as Dopey. So when was it broken? When Killian sacrificed himself? Because he was the one who cast it did his death undo it?

-Did Guinevere ever get cured of her Sands of Avalon curse? Was she back to herself once Arthur died? I certainly hope so and that when all of the Camelot folks left she was back to herself and would be able to be reunited with Lancelot.

-Why did Merlin have a dark curse brewing before Killian arrived and why did he say Nimue was the only one who could help them to defeat the Dark One? This is perhaps the most glaring unanswered question. There’s so much significance to Merlin’s character and still so much mystery around him, so I hope we’ve not seen the last of him.

An Homage to Snow White?:
It recently occurred to me that the fountain in New York that they all threw pennies into, making wishes might be a loose homage to Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, specifically the very first wish Henry made. He knew his mom was lonely so wished their family could be complete. And Hook arrived only a few days later. Let’s look at the lyrics to the song “I’m Wishing” Snow White sings at a wishing well:

I’m wishing (I’m wishing)
For the one I love
To find me (to find me)
Today

Henry’s wish came true. The one that Emma loves, the one that loves Emma, found her, and their family became complete. It wouldn’t be the first time water was used as a magical entity. There is a wishing well in Storybrooke connected with the mystical Lake Nostos, the very water that made Emma’s existence possible. There are connections everywhere it seems.

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What’s Ahead in Season 6:
Right now it’s unclear what exactly to expect next season. We know the Evil Queen has returned now separated from Regina, but clearly cannot be destroyed because you must learn to live with all you have done no matter how bad it is. Hopefully Regina will learn that. Jekyll and Hyde will also being in Storybrooke, but to what point and purpose I’m not sure. As interesting as these are I do hope there are other big focuses because after a few episodes it may be bit dreary and even repetitive to the 4B storyline. Moreover, Emma is still the main character and every arc has ultimately come back around to her story, so I hope for that to continue. There has not been much talk of what to expect except the possibility of seeing Ruby and Dorothy as well as Maleficent and Lily again. Ruby and Dorothy are cute and sweet, but when it comes to side characters returning they should be compelling if they are to garner screen time, and have a significant connection to the main story. Their episode along with Merida’s in 5A were nice and enjoyable stories out of context but had very little connection to what was going on with the main characters. At this point in the series, I have grown leery and tired of screen time taken away from the main characters. Much like Ariel and Eric, Aurora and Philip, or Cinderella and Thomas, Ruby and Dorothy represent a sweet true love story, but for me if any of these couples are seen again there needs to be a significant link to the main story arc. And honestly I care more about our mains. We shall see what transpires with them. They could be included in a good way. Unlike the new couple whom I like, I cannot say the same for Maleficent and Lily. Well, I actually do like Maleficent, though she was my personal least favorite of the Queens of Darkness. In contrast I could watch Cruella all day long. But Lily on the other hand, similar to the Bae/Neal, I enjoyed the younger persona, but found their older self to be a grating, annoying and very unlikable characterization. Do we really need to know who Lily’s father is? Does a story with her sound compelling and engaging? I know some may disagree, but for me at this point it’s a no.

However, I always try to take a positive attitude and not prejudge a story arc until I’ve seen it. Sure there are characters I would rather see return like August, Merlin or Elsa (and they may some day) but we do not dictate the story. We must watch and enjoy what we get. And they have done a beautiful job every year so far. I also thought of ways in which all the things we may see could actually be great, tying into with some scenes with Emma that may ending up being foreshadowing. With the return of the Evil Queen I would love the idea of Emma and Killian being placed in the same position that Snow and Charming were in since the “Pilot,” their love and happiness threatened by the queen. I recently re-watched the episode from Season 4 “Shattered Sight” and wonder if it was a little peak into what we may expect. And I honestly loved that episode. The way Regina reacted against Emma, Snow and David may very be what we will see with the Evil Queen in Season 6. The line Emma said to provoke her so they could get their ribbons off was interesting too: “I wanted you to see me and Hook together- to see the happiness you could never have.” Could that now be foreshadowing of how they will be targeted for having happiness she cannot have? That could be a great story!

Moreover, there have been a few scenes that may be foreshadowing that Emma may fall under a sleeping curse: when Emma says she will “sleep for weeks” once Hades is defeated and in 5×23 when Regina pricks Emma’s finger for a tracking spell and Regina asked her why she was hesitant: ” Worried I might make you taken an eternal nap on a bus bench?” If Maleficent does indeed return I could not think of a more amazing thing than to finally see a scene like the iconic hypnotization of Aurora from Sleeping Beauty. In fact, when Maleficent was said to return in 4B I had theorized we might see that with Emma. Alas we did not, but we did see Emma and Killian under a sleeping spell. Might we see a sleeping curse for Emma now? If anyone could pull off this scene in an eerie and compelling way it would be Jennifer. And I for one would love, love, love to see it. And now that she and Killian have been confirmed as True love wouldn’t that be a beautiful parallel to Snow and David’s True Love’s kiss in the show’s very first scene. And remember what happened after that scene- a wedding.

Wedding Foreshadowing:
Once Upon a Time has done its fair share of foreshadowing, some subtle and some quite obvious. In relation to Emma and Killian there has been hints since the very beginning of wedding foreshadowing This season especially the visual and verbal cues have been more and more prevalent so much so that I thought the end of the season would end with a proposal. Although that didn’t happen, instead we got perhaps the final hint of wedding foreshadowing with a dress seen in between the couple, something that has been developing for a while now along with the many other hints and clues. Some may not agree that this last one was done on purpose but I still believe it was it was a final clue that lets the audience know a wedding is on the horizon. My mother, who is a good representative of a general audience member noticed it instantly- and loved it of course. Let’s explore all of the possible foreshadowing and clues we’ve seen so far:

2×6 “Tallahasse”
Killian is down on one knee, offering his hand to Emma.

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3×14 “The Tower”
Killian asks Emma if she was considering marrying Walsh, something she does not discuss with anyone else besides Henry.

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3×21 “Snow Drifts”
Past Captain Hook carries Emma bridal style onto the Jolly Roger.

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Emma is down on her knees and holds up a wedding ring to Killian.

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3×22 “There’s No Place Like Home”
Emma tries her mother’s wedding ring on her ring finger- the ring that “true love follows wherever it goes.”

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4×4 “The Apprentice”

During their first date, Emma mentions that Walsh set the bar high by proposing on the date Killian had seen her go on.

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4×5 “Breaking Glass” Killian holds up a mood ring from Emma’s box of childhood mementos.

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4×13 “Unforgiven”
The vows to see the best in each other sound a bit like wedding vows. This one may be a stretch but is still lovely.

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5×2 “The Price”
The ball at Camelot looks as if it’s a wedding from Snow helping Emma prepare, to her beautiful white lace dress, to the way she walks toward Killian as he looks at her much like a groom looks onto a bride. The dance they share looks like a wedding!

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5×4 “The Broken Kingdom”
Killian and Emma “ride off into the sunset” on a horse, sharing a romantic love affirmation moment during sunrise in a field of hundreds of pink Middlemist flowers with Emma adorned in a lovely white dress and cloak with a long train.

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5×7 “Nimue”
Killian gives Emma a ring saying he’s not proposing, but giving her a symbol of protection and love.

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5×10 “Broken Heart”

Merida talks about taking an arrow to Emma’s knee, an allusion to a wedding and Emma marches down an aisle slowing in the field of Middlemist flowers.

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When it comes to the wedding dress, I knew we had seen it before, so I decided to go back through every episode (and I mean EVERY episode) to see when it first showed up. And what I found was pretty amazing. At the very least, what has been in this window of the shop “Modern Fashions” since Season 2 has always been tied to Emma, but I would argue it’s been there since Season 1, perhaps not intentional at first, but since season 4 it has undoubtedly been so.

In Season 1, you see a Pink dress in the window. No, it’s not Emma’s dress she wore on her date, but it does have that feel. We see this in a few episodes throughout Season 1.

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In Season 2, the first and truly only time you see the window with any kind of partiality is in 2×10 “The Cricket Game.” The dress is gone, replaced by a sign, as if the store is in transition, (Kind of like Emma). Interesting enough this is the episode right after Killian arrives in Storybrooke.

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In Season 3, we see the sign remains and we can now see what it says: Coming Soon: One Stop Cobbling. It’s a sign with a shoe. This is striking to me for many reasons. Not only that these scenes are all scenes with Emma in 3×10 “The New Neverland,” 3×12 “New York City Serenade,” and 3×19 “A Curious Thing,” but also that two of these also included Killian.

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Additionally, shoes are associated with weddings with the tradition of throwing shoes and rice at weddings (Remember that line in Sinatra song The Tender Trap– “the folks are throwing shoes and rice”), as well as tying shoes and cans to couple’s car along with a “Just Married” sign.

From Season 4 onward, I have no doubt that what is in this window is connected to Emma. It is pretty remarkable actually. With the exception of the first clear view of the dress and one very important moment, we only see this window in scenes that feature at least one of either Emma or Killian. There are a few instances of groups shots, but we never see a scene with the window in a scene that does not feature either Emma or Killian. That is pretty significant, in my opinion.

The wedding dress first appears in 4×1 “A Tale of Two Sisters.” There is a blurry view of it in the group shot at the beginning but it was not clear what it was yet. The first clear view is a scene where Elsa walks down the street- a transition to her remembering Anna trying on her wedding dress.

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Some may argue that makes the dress connected to Elsa, but in truth it is meant to be related to Emma. Emma and Elsa form a friendship and sisterly bond much like she and Anna. Moreover, every time we see it after that scene it’s with Emma or the man she is destined to marry- Killian. It’s no coincidence that after Emma and Killian shared their first real kiss in 3×22 “There’s No Place Like Home” and are about to embark on a relationship, the sign goes away and the wedding dress is put into the window.

The next time we see the dress is the first confirmation that the dress in this window (wedding or otherwise) has a undeniable connection to Emma. AND IT IS MIND BLOWING!!! In 4×2 “White Out,” as the power goes out we see a shot of the window, the light still on and the wedding dress clearly seen. What is amazing is what is in front of the window. It is a bench with the year 1983 on it. WELL 1983 IS THE YEAR EMMA SWAN WAS BORN! As we know, the show began in 2011 and that Emma turned 28 in the “Pilot,” making her birthday October 23, 1983.

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The next episode with the dress is as significant as can be. In 4×3 “Rocky Road” Killian walks right by the shop and quite importantly, Emma admits that she can’t lose Killian and he assures her the he is a survivor. From that moment Emma’s walls were minimal and the two continued to fall deeper in love. The dress is seen in between the couple right before her admission “I Can’t Lose You Too.”

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In 4×10 “Shattered Sight” it is prominently seen behind Emma, and Killian briefly walks by it.

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In 4×13 “Unforgiven” we see it behind Emma and Killian as they walk hand in hand to Granny’s This is the last time we see the window in season 4.

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In Season 5, the dress is seen in two significant scenes at the beginning and end of the season. In between, what we see solidifies that the dress in this shop window is meant to be connected to Emma.

In 5×2 “The Price” we see the wedding dress in a scene with Dark Swan Emma as she looks on at her loved ones in Granny’s. It’s a powerful image that represents her isolation, her dark present and her bright future. The contrast and dark and light is significant.

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And then comes something amazing. The next time we see the window is in 5×11 “Swan Song.” The wedding dress has disappeared and replaced with another dress- Emma’s black fitted dress she wore in 5×2. This was most likely a signification that the Dark Swan was able to “die” and indeed in this episode Savior Emma returns.

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What is mind blowing again is that in the Underworld her dress remains in that window.

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The underworld is meant to have an equivalent to everything in Storybrooke, so if Emma’s dress is in the window in the Underworld then whatever is in the shop in Storybrooke is meant to be hers as well.

Finally, we when arrive back in Storybrooke and the window is seen again, the last and perhaps final and most significant scene occurs. A wedding dress is back in the window to Modern Fashions in 5×23 “An Untold Story.” What’s interesting is that is different dress than the one that we’d seen before- the one Alice wore on her wedding day.

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Perhaps there is no significance to that, but I do think it’s significant that the season was bookended by two very different scenes with the dress: one where Emma is alone at night- the darkness still within her and Killian, and then with the two of them during the day, free from the darkness and ready for a bright future together.

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In this moment Emma tells Killian she loves him for the first time simply because she wants to. The placement of the gown is also important as the dress is in clear and beautiful view, perfectly centered between them – the first time that has ever happened. This is the final exquisite sign that this wedding dress in meant for her. It always has been.

We don’t know when, but a wedding is surely on the horizon for Emma and Killian. The signs are there. They have proven their True Love. And when they finally have their happy day it will undoubtedly be as beautiful as anything we’ve ever seen.

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Movie Monday: Anticipated Films 0f 2016

Every year we all have a batch of movies we are really looking forward to seeing. For me, these past few years have been shorter lists than they once were and often we don’t get to the theater to see everything we wish to. I actually still have several from last year’s list still on my Netflix queue including The Man from Uncle, The Age of Adaline, Ant Man, and Far From the Madding Crowd. But this year’s list includes films that I am really excited for. Below are my top 10 plus a few others with their trailers and release dates if there are ones.

  1. Captain America: Civil War (May 6)

Without a doubt the Captain America films, and Steve Rogers are my favorite of the Marvel Universe. So in the great debate of Team Cap versus Team Iron Man, I am Team Cap. Of course this is without knowing very much of what that entails within the context of the story. I know very little and I want to keep it that way. It’s actually refreshing going into a film without preconceived notions, especially when it comes to genre or super hero films. SO PLEASE BE KIND AND DO NOT SPOIL THIS MOVIE FOR ME!!!

  1. Alice Through the Looking Glass (May 27)

I loved the Alice in Wonderland film from Tim Burton in2010, so I was very excited when I heard that a sequel was in the works. And the Trailer only amped up my excitement. Featuring the same cast and the same visually breathtaking and whimsical visuals and only Burton can do, I look forward to seeing what new story they have come up with. In many ways I am a purist but I also love taking familiar stories and creating new ones and giving the characters surprising twists. Big surprise there given my love for Once Upon a Time.

 

  1. The Dust Storm (Release Date Unknown)

Any fan of Colin O’Donoghue has been waiting to see this movie for 2 years!! With it being screened more and more at film festivals and discussion of trying their best to get a theatrical release date. I am crossing all my fingers that this happens this year. I am a big fan of the film Once, and this definitely has that vibe. Set in Nashville and featuring a great deal of all kinds of music including country and alternative, as well as what sounds like a great romantic, dramatic story, I cannot wait to see this movie. Of course being a fan of Colin makes me want to see it even more especially when watching the trailers. Just let me see this movie already!

 

  1. Albion: The Enchanted Stallion (Release Date Unknown)

I first heard about this film being a fan of Jennifer Morrison and from the brief description it sounded wonderful. I adore fantasy films, especially ones based on children’s books, that being my specialization in Graduate School. Albion is not based on a book as far as I can tell, but it sure looks like it could be, so that is a plus in my book. But when I saw the teaser that was released my excitement for this film reached the stratosphere. I crave films like this especially since there have been no new Narnia films produced.  It looks funny and colorful and has amazing actors such as Debra Messing and John Cleese. And when I saw Jennifer would be playing multiple personalities, speaking with a perfect British accent and SINGING, I was blown away. I knew she was talented but this is a whole other level. This film better come out this year because I do not want to wait any longer!

 

  1. Finding Dory (June 17)

When I list my favorite Pixar films, I always seem to name the same ones: Monsters Inc, Toy Story 2 and Finding Nemo. One of the best parts of Nemo is Dory’s character and given that she still suffers from short term memory loss the possibilities for a stories are endless. It makes sense that if she was lost they would need to find her. I mean, remember when she could not remember where her family was. Pixar makes some of the greatest films, animated or otherwise, of this generation- always beautiful heartfelt, funny and meaningful and this one is sure to be another in their long line of classics.

 

  1. Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (November 18)

I must admit, as big a Harry Potter fan as I am I have not read this book. But that does not mean I am not eagerly anticipating this movie. Unlike the Potter films I will go in not knowing what happens, which will be nice for a change, my only knowledge being that of the magical world. Being a period piece gives the film an allure as I love the Victorian era and that combined with this universe that I adore will make this kind of Rowling steampunk-esque fun. And the cast is absolutely fantastic including Eddy Redmayne, Colin Farrell, Samantha Morton.

 

  1. Rouge One: A Star Wars Story (December 16)

The first trailer for this film was recently released and it looks like the perfect film to tide us over until the next installment in the Star Wars Saga after The Force Awakens. We always know someone stole the plans for the Death Star to help aide the Rebellion and this is their story. It is a fierce and brave woman named Jyn Erso- code name (I’m assuming) is Rogue One, played by Felicity Jones. All I have to say is that I would love this story whether the character was a man or a woman, but at the same time it is great to see them continuing to give us woman in these roles. She looks to be another great hero in the same vein and Leia and Rey.

 

  1. Miss Perigrine’s Home for Peculiar Children (December 23)

In college I remember some fellow classmates reading this book. I still not have yet, but from what I know about it, it’s unsurprising that Tim Burton chose to adapt it. The trailer makes the film look wonderfully weird and whimsical. It stars Eva Green and Asa Butterfield, who was also the lead in Hugo. If you have not seen that movie do it now because it’s a masterpiece. I am not sure of this will reach that level but it does look intriguing.

 

  1. Knights of the Round Table: King Arthur (July 22)

When searching for the film coming out this year I was pleasantly surprised to see this and was instantly delighted to see those involved: director Guy Richie who brought Sherlock Holmes with Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law to life with vigor and excitement. This film also stars Law, as well as a wonderful cast including Charlie Hunnam, Eric Bana and Katie McGrath. I LOVE Arthurian legend stories and always am interested in new interpretations. I was a fan of the King Arthur film from 2004 so it will be nice to see another take on these characters.

  1. Star Trek: Beyond (July 22)

I do not pretend to be a “Trekie” or Star Trek expert. I have always been more of a Star Wars girl. Though I have not seen other films I am sure they are great. I have however have seen the recent Star Trek films and absolutely LOVED from the stories to the cast, and this next installment will hopefully be just as good. This is the first one not directed by J.J. Abrams but given how the foundation has already brilliant been laid with the first two films, I don’t think that should deter any of us from looking forward to this one.

 

Other films I look forward to seeing:

La La Land (July 15)

Ghostbusters (July 15)

Now You See Me 2 (June 10)

Moana (November 25th)

The BFG (July 1)

So what is on your list of anticipated movies of 2016? Does it include some of these? Are there any that you don’t see? Leave a  comment and tell me yours. I would love to hear what everyone is excited to see this year! 🙂

 

Once Upon a Time: “Our Decay ” Further Thoughts

This episode was a real treat and pleasant surprise. I covered most everything in my Nerd Machine review, but there were some things I wanted to further discuss because they warmed my heart, gave me hope, and set the wheels in my brain turning for the rest of this arc to make Operation Firebird successful.

A Beautiful Reading:

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Hearing Emma read a page from the Storybook about her parents singing a lullaby to her little brother was one of my favorite scenes the show has ever done. It was so pure, heartwarming and lovely and Jennifer Morison has the ability to convey so much warmth with her soothing voice.

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But another reason why this scene struck me so deeply was because it gave me hope that this is a moment that is foreshadowing something I have longed predicted and wished for. For a long time I have had two moments in my head that would happen at the end of the series. One of these would be Emma blowing out a candle on her birthday, mirroring the “Pilot” and bringing everything full circle. Only this time she will not be alone but surrounded by family and friends. But the other scene I have imagined is one where Emma is reading the Storybook to her and Killian’s baby, with him sitting beside her or watching from afar, smiling with love and wonderment. Hearing Emma read this moment, especially given that it was about parents and their child, gives me tremendous hope that a scene like this may actually materialize in the series finale. And if it does, I will be exceptionally moved, happy an probably cry for days.

Want to hear further proof that Jennifer can narrate in an engaging and melodic way. Just listen to her narration on this amazing special “The Secrets of Storybrooke” which aired before the premiere of season 4B, which is just plain fantastic in its own right.

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A Loving Father:

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I love Robin Hood’s character. His true heart, sense of honor, and fierce bravery are some of the qualities I love most. But another is that we’ve always seen him be such a loving and protective father. I have wanted to see more of character in this arc but sadly his screen time has not been what I hoped for. But in this episode at least we got to see further examples of his beautiful characteristics. Robin is right. Setting a good example- helping friends and being heroic- is important. It can give his children something to look up to and learn by. The best moments in this episode were him holding his baby girl. Wasn’t the scene where he and Regina lovingly look at her, she commenting that the baby has Robin’s eyes enough to make your heart soar. And As I said in my Nerd Machine review:

“I could not help but be choked up when his daughter was back in his protective arms as he cradles and kisses her saying, “Daddy’s got you.” If your heart did not melt in that moment then perhaps it’s made of stone, for this thief has certainly stolen mine.”

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Snow and Charming’s Lullaby:

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When the scene came and Snow suggested that they sing a lullaby to their son as they try to contact him from the Underworld, who else wanted to hear it? What song did they sing? A musical episode may be too much to hope for, but given the musical talent of so many cast members, hearing them sing a lullaby is certainly plausible. What song do you imagine they sung to baby Neal? These are some of my favorite lullabies.

“All Through the Night” (Road to Avonlea)- Cedric Smith

“Baby Mine” (Dumbo) – Allison Kraus

“Hushabye Mountain” (Chitty Chitty Bang Bang)- Dick Van Dyke

Babies, Babies, Babies:

There is certainly a baby boom in Storybrooke and this episode reminded us of such as babies were the topic of just about every aspect of the episode: Snow and Charming’s boy, Robin and Zelena’s girl, and Rumple and Belle’s unborn child.

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I do find it interesting that, as fellow blogger Shira pointed out on her site tough-lass, Killian was looking at Robin’s baby, and we still have the scene from the previous episode to remember and ruminate on. There was a specific direction for Killian to look at the nursery in the script, and it cannot simply be for fun that Emma and Killian’s house is filled with children’s toys. This is not merely a reflection of Emma’s lost childhood. That is part of it. But I refuse to believe it is that alone. Everything has a purpose on this show. Emma and Killian are surrounded by examples of what their future can look like: children to hold, love, and comfort and sing off to sleep. I would love to hear them discuss this in some form on screen because it would be lovely. But if they don’t we know this is not for nothing. These are deliberate, visual cues. Emma and Killian will have a family and a happily ever after someday. I just know it.

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Diner Prices:

I was amused that everything in the diner is the exact same price: $10.95. I am not sure what the significance of that number is but it’s hilarious that no matter what you order you must pay the same steep price. I mean 11 bucks for a piece of dry wheat toast. This is Hell!!

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Hades’s Torture:

Now that we have learned the backstory for Hades and Zelena, and that he loves her, we know what Hades was so angry at Cora and served her such harsh punishment. He did it undoubtedly in defense of Zelena for abandoning her. And we know that he tortured her to learn when Zelena’s birthday was. And yet we still don’t know why he was so brutally torturing Killian. There has to be more of an explanation and we need to know.

Light Magic, True Love, and Rebirth: (Slight Spoilers Ahead)

I was speaking with some friends the other day about the fact that Emma’s magic has been working perfectly in the Underworld and yet Regina and Zelena’s has not. I think the reason why is simple. Emma is the Savior and has LIGHT Magic- the lightest of anyone. And Light magic is too strong to be subdued, contained or stopped in the Underworld. Light magic is also a great weakness to Hades. I believe this will all be connected with how Killian is resurrected because what is the greatest source of light magic- True Love. When you share True Love’s Kiss that is the most powerful magic of all. It restores life and brings light to the darkness.

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Adam and Eddy said Emma’s role as the Savior is just beginning and her presence in the Underworld is a sign of such not only in rescuing the man she loves, but bringing life to a place that had none. As Hades said, “The Underworld is a place for destruction. Despite my best intentions, things don’t grow here. They decay.” But when looking at a still for the next episode “Her Handsome Hero”  Hades finds that a flower had miraculously grown. How is this possible?

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I believe Emma’s presence more than anything is a contributing factor. She represents hope and light. And Nature in itself is a miraculous thing. It can sprout in places that seem impossible. A single flower can grow through cement. It’s quite beautiful that the writers are continuing the symbolic use of flowers to represent love, hope and rebirth. Those scenes in 5A in the field of Middllemist flowers were more than just visually beautiful. They were each representation of something. The first two especially were significant. The first was about hope renewed and love reaffirmed. The second was about love lost and then reborn as Emma restored Killian’s life by turning him a Dark One. As tragically different as the second scene was in essentials, it’s beauty and symbolism remained the same. These scene were all connected and the continued use of growth in the Underworld proves that when it comes to Emma (and Killian) love will endure and hope is never lost.

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Moreover, it important to combine these symbolic elements with other crucial aspects of this arc: the name of the mission to save Killian, and the moment he and Liam shared before Liam was able to move onto a better place.

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A firebird is like a phoenix- a mystical bird hat rises from the ashes and is reborn after death. Coincidentally there is an upcoming episode entitled “Firebird,” that will center around Emma’s character and we suspect her time in, importantly Phoenix. Moreover, the moment between brothers was  I beelive a moment of true love. Liam’s sacrifice allowed Heaven to open up to him and his crewman and the look on Hades’ face says it all. He was completely shocked. A moment of true love, a moment of light magic, are clear foreshadows to the way in which Killian’s life will be restored. His rebirth will be because of true love. But what is important to remember is that beyond saving Killian’s life, more souls may be saved as well. So many have already been.. If indeed a pulse of true love sweeps over the Underworld, it will bathe this place of darkness with light. What will happen as a result of that? Emma is the savior after all. Will she be Killian’s savior? She already has been in so many ways. But is there more to the power of her light magic, power that will stem from True Love? We shall see, but whatever may come, it sure to be filled with great beauty and meaning.

Think about the times Emma arrived in Storybrooke bringing life to a town that was asleep, her yellow bug and red leather jacket representing the color that the town was devoid of, it’s residents living a gray monotonous existence.

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But Emma brought color to their lives- she brought hope and life. And now I suspect she is doing the very same thing in the Underworld. Only this time she is filled with a love so great, in a heart she is willing to share. That is not only shows tremendous growth but is very powerful. If the Savior has a moment true love that is sure to be more powerful than anyone could possibly imagine.

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Once Upon a Time: “The Brothers Jones” Further Thoughts

The Brothers Jones was one of my favorite episodes of the series and it moved me deeply. I poured my heart into my review for The Nerd Machine, and would love for you all to check it out. Of course there arr always things that I do not have proper room for in those review, which is why I do these further thoughts. Hope you enjoy!

Home and the Future:

As I wrote earlier in the season,“home and the future” have always been ingrained in Emma’s journey and in turn her love story with Killian. Consistency is one of the things that I find remarkable and OUAT has certainly done this, especially the season. The amount of times “home” and the “future” have been referred to is astounding and there are consistencies not only in writing but also the music. In 5A “home” and “future” we’re a large part of the episode “Birth” and “The Broken Kingdom,” written by David H, Goodman and Jerome Schwartz, so it’s not surprising that their episode “The Brothers Jones” continued these references, making it an essential part of it. The moment Killian returns to Emma is an exquisite continuation of the home and future they’re fighting for. Killian’s line to Emma says it all.

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But what’s really beautiful is that the same musical cue that played in the scene where Emma and Killian ignite the Promethean flame, ready for their future together, was played in this moment as well. It should go ahead and just be entitled “Emma and Killian’s Future. “Consistencies like this demonstrate how beautiful and carefully crafted every aspect of the story truly is.

Brilliant Acting:

OUAT always seems to inspire wonderful performances from its actors and in this episode it was Colin O’Donoghue and Bernard Curry. Especially impressive were the similar nuances that made us feel as if they are truly siblings, and not just the one natural ease between them we first saw “Good Form” but also the expressions and mannerisms that are spot on similar, specifically the shy and uncomfortable smile when they are receiving praise. In Bernard’s case, this is an actor who obviously studied Colin’s performance so he can mimic a similar expression.

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What I love about the last gif here is that Killian deserves all the praise his brother is giving him in this moment and his expression, while still shy is less uncomfortable. It’s humble but accepting, the way you appreciate someone you love complementing you. This is just wonderful acting here. But Colin was truly brilliant not just in one scene in particular but in many. One astounding one was the confrontation between him, Emma and Liam. When Killian is upset he often clenches his jaw and in this moment when Emma says he could come home if you just forgave himself, he’s clenching so tightly, tears brimming in his eyes, unable to even look at Emma. It shows just how torn he is about his decision not to return to Storybrooke. Deep down he longs to, but his self-loathing is so strong at the moment he cannot bring himself to admit it, nor does he think he even deserves it. His pain and torment is all seen in his heartbreaking expression.

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Of course he was so good and all his other scenes. Just see for yourself. He conveys much in his eyes and his mannerisms.

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Killian’s Self-loathing:

The Killian we’ve known has always been a combination of confidence and bravado mixed with deeply rooted self-loathing and shame for his fault and mistakes. If there were moments and expressions that demonstrated this hatred it would be these and it breaks my heart because in one he’s so young and in the other he is loved so deeply by a woman who sees him as a hero. He’s broken without much hope and his moments of weakness make him feel great shame. He thinks he can never be the brother Liam, and the man that Emma deserves. If only he knew the great strength he is capable of.

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A Lucky Ring:

It was already beautiful that Killian gave Emma Liam’s ring saying “bring her home to me.” But now that we’ve seen the exact moment where Liam’s bestows this ring to his brother, the meaning feels even more significant. His lucky ring was the one that always “brought him safely home” so it’s so moving that not only Killian believed it kept him alive and safe, but that he gave its “power “or “luck “to Emma. Equally moving is that now Emma still keeps that ring close to her heart in her quest to bring Killian home. Whether its power is metaphorical or real remains to be seen. It is interesting that after Liam agrees to Hades’ deal that he gives Killian the ring. Was it enchanted to keep him alive? It does seem coincidental that when Killian then gives it away to Emma he is mortally wounded. Regardless, the ring is beautiful symbol of Emma and Killian’s journey to return safely home – a journey Liam began and gave to his brother always wanting the best for him.

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Symbolism:

When Killian tells Emma he plans to come home with her, to have the future Liam wanted for him, it’s beautiful and touching. Aesthetically I love the symbolic aspects of the scene. When they kiss and break apart, foreheads still touching light behind their faces shines through symbolizing that there is a light behind them guiding them safely home. The wide shot revealed a painting on the wall behind them of a ship – a ship resembling the one that Liam just departed on. The ones we love are always with us and Liam will always be in Killian’s heart. But now they are both at peace, neither no longer tormented or in pain with how they said goodbye. Seeing the painting there was a way of showing Liam’s guidance to indeed fight for the future he tried to ensure for his brother.

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A Final Goodbye:

One of the things that always haunted Killian was the way in which Liam died, helpless and unable to say goodbye. In “Good Form” he tells David that he is fortunate he got to say goodbye to his loved ones for what he thought would be the last time. The fact that he finally got to bid his brother farewell and know that he was a peace was so significant. It gives him the closer that he was once denied, and allows him to move forward in his life with that weight lifted off his shoulders.

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“You’re Safe”:

I was moved by Killian’s saying to Liam “you’re safe.” Not “you’re okay or alright” but “safe.” It is difficult to put into words but it is so beautiful to me. He is safe from danger or harm. He will be safe in his journey to the afterlife. From a religious perspective like myself, He will be safe in the arms of the Lord. It is a much more profound word than any other because it reflects peace and comfort and a sense that his pain is gone.

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“Not Until Emma and I Defeat Hades”:

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I love this line for several reasons. One, it proclaims a sense of true heroism because it’s not just about saving himself. Everyone came to the Underworld with the intention of saving Killian not defeating Hades necessarily. They discovered they could help other souls move on, but now there is another objective- to defeat Hades once and for all. I also love that Killian says “Emma and I” displaying the  equality between them and how he continues to see them as quite the team. No matter what they do, they do it together, whether it’s fighting an evil snowman or defeating an immortal God. He says it so matter of fact as well. He believes they will succeed because of his faith and Emma, and the faith he is beginning to have in himself.

It’s such a pretty ship:

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There was something so endearing about Killian calling The Jewel of the Realm, later the Jolly Roger, “pretty.” It reflects his innocence and inherent sweetness that is part of his character. It was love at first sight for him and the ship became a symbol of freedom so many times – first from servitude, then from correction. It makes the fact that he gave her up even more meaningful, as he truly did give up what had been a source of freedom for hundreds of years. But giving up the Jolly Roger he did not shirk him of that freedom. Instead it freed him from his loneliness and heartbreak and he would make the same choice again and again if it meant a chance to be with Emma.

Henry as the author and his love for Family:

I so look forward to seeing Henry work as author, especially now that he wants to use his power the right way. But I was really touched by two specific things they chose to have Henry focus on when he spoke to the Apprentice about his feeling of hopelessness to stop certain things.

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It’s not surprising that he feel that way about his mom, but seeing the steady development of affection Henry has for Killian is really heartwarming. Beyond just wanting to see his mother happy, he now really cares about him and it’s lovely. We went from him not being sure about his mom dating him, to being taught to sail, to going on adventures to save Emma, to Henry watching Killian die, completely devastated. And he may be experiencing growing pains that all teenagers go through, but he loves his family-  all of them and that now includes not only Emma, Snow, David, Regina and Robin but also Killian.

Flashbacks of the Brothers Jones:

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What I loved about these flashbacks besides being thoroughly engaging and just plain amazing to watch, was how they helped explain Killian and Liam’s characters. Killian’s behavior especially makes pristine sense, even more so than before. In “Swan Song” we saw Killian as a child look up to his father, wanting to be just like him. Hours later he abandons his sons and sells them into servitude. Given how much he looked up to his father it’s only natural Liam tried to be this good and honorable man, to inspire and his younger brother and always forgive him his vices. He never wanted to abandon him like their father did. Moreover, after they are the only survivors of their crew, Liam knowing why, Killian simply grateful for his brothers heroism, their straight-laced way of life – the good form, never indulging in alcohol, longing for a heroes journey and goodness for their family lineage- is even more understandable.

Where was Robin:

Robin’s absence from this episode was the one glaring flaw because it may know sense. Where was he? He should’ve been right alongside everyone else in the loft and the quest to the Apprentice’s house, unlike Gold who we know is in his shop. I’ve been longing for more screen time for him and being completely missing from this episode fell off. There should have been at the very least a single line explaining where he was.

More Liam Jones and missed opportunities:

The only other missed opportunity for this episode was not having a scene between David and Liam. They are definitely similar, and the way Killian and David bonded in “Good Form” over talking about him, it’s a shame they didn’t have a scene together. Moreover, I know Liam’s character has moved on, but two episodes is not enough. My love of pirate and nautical stories withstanding, Killian could always use more back stories, so we definitely need to see Liam again in flashbacks.

A Beautiful Video:

I love to highlight talent in the fandom, and this video by XxMitikaSanaxX is so stunning. I think it highlights their journey and bring some parallels to Liam so amazingly so. It’s so well done, I believe it could make a non-viewer want to watch the show and instantly make them fall him up with Emma and Killian’s story.