(snipped a bit here and there to condense)
Hmm...apparently, my comments on this episode are required. Well, let's see...
My first thought about this episode was "What is it with Leos going to Japan?". At least Ninjara didn't go with him.
Ok, seriously...I enjoyed the episode quite a bit. Maybe the flatulent scenes could have been a few less, but what the hey. Especially enjoyed the opening scenes in the lair. Didn't look like Raph was thrilled having his own personality on display like that for him to see. Maybe this change in Leo will bring about a kindler, gentler Raphael? One that could be a happy member of a Welcoming Committee?
...Naaaaah...
All in all, so far, this season has not disappointed...just hope the reruns don't go on too long (although, I suspect it'll probably be till February, when the next round of 'Sweeps' occurs).
Happy, Leo? Want some chips?
Some replies:
Of COURSE your comments were required, because how could you not speak up about an episode that was mostly about Leo? Otherwise I might have had to invoke the Contract: Phaels v. Nardos section.
As for going to Japan, yes, it is a good choice! (I really enjoyed it there on my vacation there with my iado dojo group last March. Including the experience of sword training over there, too.)
As for Raph having his own attitude on display? LOL So does that mean Raph learns from Leo? hmm....Doubtful!
Hey, *you* said as much with your "naaaah"!
The rest of my comments I didn't have time for this morning:
I have enjoyed the story arc with Leo this season.
Because he's not just treated as a static "fearless Leader" character who just seeks "perfection", and is always in control, and has the Plan. <yawn>
He actually has flaws and lessons to learn, and in doing so, he grows. And because of showing a "negative" or less perfect side, because of making mistakes, there's more depth in the character because he learned from them.
I had wondered as one way this could break is if they faced Karai again, and he managed to defeat her. (I am guessing there's going to be more with her later this season?) So it was very sad to see Leo lose control to the point of hurting Splinter, and surprising for Leo to get past Splinter's guard like that, but he'd been prodded to the point of exploding. That's rather fearsome rage. (Raph might want to make note of that?)
As I saw it, the encounters Leo had were about breaking down ego and realizing what really mattered. So I liked that about the episode, it was rather Zennish to me. A rough way to enlightenment, but it worked. There is always going to be someone better than you, and always keeping a beginner's mind is very important to learn anything.
Now that it looks like the angtsy Leo arc wrapped up (at least it looks like it), I would like to see more done with Raph and Don as characters. Mikey has had some things thrown at him for growth, like his challenge to being Battle Nexus Champion. But even he could use a bit more, too.
I'm looking forward to the rest of the season.
And now? Now Leo should be the perfect leader.
*grins and waits for the comments*
Thanks for the chips, bro.
