Rapid Reviews - Angel Season Two DVDs

Angel [2-15]: Reprise: I couldn't help giggling repeatedly at the beginning, when it became apparent that what was driving the W&H lawyers dizzy was a performance review. I was also glad that the loose end from the last issue was picked up. But this one left a lot of loose ends. For Angel, this is one of the least satisfying episodes narratively, yet one of the most satisfying in its implications. This is definitely one of those "I can't wait until next week" episodes. Good thing I've got these on DVD, eh?

Angel [2-16]: Epiphany: Well now. Angel has an epiphany, brought on in part by W&H's attempt to drive him to the deepest despair. Where do we start with the philosophical implications in this one episode alone? I think I won't even try. Let's just say this was a satisfying conclusion to the hanging plot threads left all over by the last episode, and I think maybe we'll leave it at that.

A driving theme of this show is saving souls. Kicking butt and taking names is important, yes, but Angel tries to save people... even the worst kind. He saved Faith, tried to save Darla, saved Kate from herself, and in a way saved Wesley, Gunn, and Cordelia. Redemption, repentence, rescue. Angel is all about giving people a second chance, and nobody on the show is perfect, or even close to being perfect. For this show, life is progression, and all the characters are striving to become something/someone better. If the show has a driving philosophy, that's it. Becoming better.