Can't Ignore It Anymore: Helluva Boss Season 2 Episode 4 Review

[@SarcasticChorus]

Thoughts on the season so far? Also follow me on twitter: twitter.com/ChorusSarcastic

[@insectostrich4407]

It’s a bit hard to feel sad for these characters with tragic backstories and tense moments when earlier in the show we saw a police helicopter blow up a murder family’s house with kids inside. For laughs mind you. Another example of this is when Moxxie has that flash back to his childhood and we see that his dad drowned his mum, but it’s shown after and followed up by the 20 dildo scene. Plus, the humour in general can come off as very forced too.

[@ManicKiwii]

I won't say I'm starting to fizzle out with the season it's just a little underwhelming. We're only 4 episodes in and i know promises have been made so i holding my breath on that but so far im not confident. 😅🤷🏾‍♀️

[@insectostrich4407]

When a show reveals that it’s much deeper than a simple comedy I like to call that process “the comical vale”. It’s something Red vs Blue did. However, unlike Helluva Boss RvB, at least before season 15, made sure to separate the humour from the more very serious scenes and even justified the non-sensical things from earlier seasons. Like when the team thought they were fighting a war when they were complete idiots: It was revealed later they were secretly selected to be used as training for the actual soldiers, and they were chosen because they were mostly idiots so they wouldn’t be too dangerous or question anything.

[@warlordofbritannia]

Weak. The opener and Moxxie episode were quite good but the other two have been mediocre at best. Also, did the animation look...cheap in this one? A clear downgrade?

[@emilyavila4308]

Idk I liked this episode a lot, but striker felt a little off to me (aside from the voice) and I was getting whiplash during the fight scene, but I have been loving the show so far, and I’m going to continue to enjoy it

[@seandewar47]

To be fair, the reason why Loona hasn't had any line is because her Voice Actress, Erica Lindbeck, is taking a bit of a Grieving period for her Fiance who passed away from cancer. EDIT: OK, Two things: 1. It's possible this is a rumor, looking into it a bit more, couldn't really find anything outright disproving the notion. But it is still possible since the timeline matches up, the episodes were likely in production around the time of Kametz' passing. And given how long making an animated show takes, not that hard to believe that this is likely a factor. 2. I do agree they should have sidelined loona big time in this episode rather than what they did here. If the "Grieving period" thing is true, replacing her would have been disrespectful and just Tone-deaf. Especially since Loona is part of the main cast, and especially considering how much Viziepop respects her VA's she likely wouldn't want to do that.

[@thelordoflemonz]

Wow, okay I didn't realize that was something that happened. That's legit tragic, and explains a lot regarding Loona's lack of dialogue in the last two episodes.

[@gezz5904]

@@valentinkambushev4968what is wrong with you? I mean okay Loona is nowhere near any level of importance to me but Millie is integral to the series, dude

[@valentinkambushev4968]

@@gezz5904 an integral character that they've done only the bare minimum with.

[@alabama4625]

jesus fucking christ man, that's gotta be tough

[@theonetruespice]

​@@valentinkambushev4968 they've stated countless times that a Millie centric episode is in the works.

[@GandalfTheTsaagan]

100% agreed Stolas' kidnapping feels so serious but everything else is just so goofy, and Loona's appointment was such a missed opportunity for a father-daughter moment!

[@yoknom]

There were father daughter moments, just not spoken out loud. And that seems to be because the VA of Loona lost her partner to cancer around the time of recording (read that in the comments), in which case I think they have done their best to still show the importance of that father daughter bond. 1. Yes she's freaked out the whole time, but she stays with Blitz and doesn't run 2. When she hides under the chairs and he bobs her nose she even smiles for a second, which is a great thing seeing how bad her fear is 3. When he hugs her while he argues in the waiting area, Loona stops shivering and accepts the closeness instead of freaking out more. In her state of fear I'd not except that kind of closeness from someone I don't trust 100% 4. If I understood correctly this was the first time he took her to get her S.H.O.T., and still he understood how bad her fear was. For me that implies they have talked about the severity beforehand. Would it have been cool to see these talks? Of course, but in light of the VA's situation I think this episode still highlightend their bond Blitz may use this appointment to argue he can't rescue Stolas, but his face said he was about to rescue Stolas anyway until the Imps argued they were able to handle Stolas. In this episode so much happened beside the dialogue and that they can still get all of this across even without Loona talking is great work imo. But I was not as frustrated with this episode as many others to begin with so don't know, maybe I am just an outlier.

[@darkwoods639]

​@@yoknom I totally agree with you. Many fans should pay attention to these details.

[@augustuzmoon3814]

@@yoknom I believe it’s a combination of her lack of presence in the couple of episodes and she just sorta hangs around not doing anything and since the last time she spoke it wasn’t on the best of terms with her being either a prick or rude.

[@sotojared22]

I disagree. The episode was meant to develop Stolas and Blitzø's relationship. Loona going to the doctors was a reflection of Stolas being kidnapped, evident by the transitions back and forth between both climaxes. The contrast between something actually serious to something more remedial. Although poorly executed, it adds to the depth when Blitzø realizes Stolas's mortality. How mundane and selfish it all felt to him, drowning in shame, fear, and guilt for not being a better partner as seen by the end. It's really relatable stuff, and sets up an interesting relationship arc where Blitzø might see drastic character development. Let's see if they can deliver.

[@animatordean]

​@@yoknom I agree with you, I had little to no problems with this episode

[@shusky_master9172]

I legit didn’t realize it’s been 2 whole years since Stryker’s first appearance 💀

[@felixgonzalez5135]

No way that's true 💀

[@ddmacc]

​@@felixgonzalez5135 It is

[@ACeForgot]

Damn I time flies

[@gwyngwyn_2416]

WHAT 💀

[@raindrop650]

Same 💀 This show really makes you think about all the time going by unlike other shows since this is a very small company meaning it takes longer to produce episodes...

[@customarymagic]

"This feels like a leftover Chaz joke" describes that statue perfectly. I couldn't place why I didn't like the joke until you put it that way.

[@Huh9631]

That’s exactly what I thought! Striker didnt seem like the kinda guy to own a statue of himself with a 🦴er it reminded me of Chaz

[@Poopoodookieclub]

yeah I really disliked that, it's like vivzie is trying to change villains into more of a "chaz" character which I disliked so much, striker was my literal favorite character and for so long time I waited for this episode. This really broke my heart in a bad way.

[@SS-ui7by]

Nahhh, Striker totally is the I'd-fuck-me type. Last time too we got hints of his arrogant, self-serving personality. He tried to flirt with Millie just for the sake of it, he liked completely shitting on Moxxie for no reason but to rub it in that he's more "manly" and stronger than Moxxie's "weak" self despite his mission having nothing to do with M&M, only to kill Stolas. He literally sang a whole song about how great he is. "Me, I'm totally the best" "With every talent, I'm so much more talented than you" "Me, super cool me, handsome guy Hm, Moxxie, go fuck yourself" Should've seen it coming

[@gigachad3925]

⁠@@Poopoodookieclub To be fair, Striker has always been an egotistical dickhead. Think back to his song in 1x5 where he just brags about himself in the most over-the-top way, in addition to his line to Blitzo: “the two of us are above the rest of our kind”. So, as far as the narcissism is concerned, his character is pretty consistent. Though if you mean the sexual aspect, I definitely understand what you’re saying.

[@Nightman221k]

Striker didn’t seem like the sort to care about validating his own ego like that so it seemed needless.

[@Etx-z9.]

It’s weird to realize how calm and almost cocky Stolas was when he was first kidnapped, but I think it was because he was so confident that Blitzø would save him. (similar to the Loo Loo Land episode). He only got scared when he realized Blitzø wasn’t coming.

[@soldiersgr996]

Not to mention he realised the gear Striker was packing could actually kill him and negate his abilities to escape and harm him. It was check mate it seemed until MnM came to save the day

[@austinslaughter319]

​@@soldiersgr996 , and it was definitely not a "victory".

[@rollforapples6625]

I mean, Striker didn't do that good a job tying him up if he still could use his arms and hands to call Blitz and cold kick.

[@thesavvyverse]

Y'all are forgetting he's a rich guy who's probably never even had a paper cut He sees himself as immortal yes he knows Angelic weapons can kill him but to him that's all in theory

[@zeemmy33]

@@thesavvyverse except that doesn't add up because he's been in vulnerable positions multiple times (ex: the ep where he's human and can't do anything) and has been afraid before. the whole "stolas can get hurt??!" thing has no affect because we already know this and he hasn't been strong enough to where this is a surprise to the characters or us at all

[@sleather5899]

honestly that "he can get HURT?" from blitz feels like both "oh shit he's not invincible" and "oh shit I can lose him too". Perfect delivery.

[@TheLawlessRogue]

I agree but for me I just want really invested into the episode to feel the actual hurt, which is a shame since I literally had such high expectations for it too

[@raggens]

The problem is that Striker already showed Blitz that these kinds of weapons exist, so that just makes the delivery all the more confusing since Blitz knows that there are weapons that can kill Goetias

[@hpjive]

Could’ve been a perfect delivery until you realized that wait!? Blitzø already knows striker can kill stolas.

[@benzelwasington4059]

Thing hes blizo dosent even really care 😂😅

[@the-annoyinator]

It makes zero sense for him to say that though..?

[@thenerdbeast7375]

Personally I feel Striker lost his teeth this episode, going from someone who has his own agenda and is taking this job from Stella because it aligned with his goals to just...Stella's goon. All that classism talk falls flat when you are a lackey to one of the worst Goetia of all, even if you are about to kill one. Striker would have been a lot more intimidating and would have saved face if he ignored Stella's order to be called off and decided to kill Stolas anyway only for M&M to save him.

[@alexadams2734]

totally agree there

[@lisalos7170]

I also found that talk about the goetia weird, I can't really take it seriously, specially when he barely says anything negative about Stella or anyone else in particular

[@justanotherweirdo11]

Definitely

[@birdpersondaniel185]

Such a simple change could have really done somthing for his character, wish I could've thought of it, this show really needs to figure itself out

[@quinnmills3544]

No because i totally noticed how less intimidating he was this episode . The statue, the following orders, was not impressed

[@varibunn]

Even for as much as I dislike the tone whiplash, Brandon still kills it with his voice acting. Hes of the reasons I keep coming back. Like that ending "He can get hurt?" BROKE my heart jfc

[@Passions5555]

Yeah, great line read on that one

[@moonoftheblood]

ABSOLUTELY, I adore the voice acting in this show so much bro

[@aidenbenner2723]

yeah it adds more to the plot and added more suspense I was wasn't looking at the time and I thought the episode was going to end on a cliffhanger and then stoles hospital scene ,perfect

[@aidenbenner2723]

Stolas

[@sarahni]

Honestly I don't think Brandon has delivered a single bad line

[@bunnyblackwell6107]

Octavia not being at the hospital was such a missed opportunity. 😓

[@Aardydarling]

Why would she be at hospital

[@bunnyblackwell6107]

@@Aardydarling Stolas loves exactly two people: Octavia and Blitz*. He reaches out to Blitz* and gets crumbs back. Octavia giving enough of a shit to show up at the hospital when her Dad's near-murder is front page news provides a counterpoint to Blitz*'s toxic presence, especially important since Stella/Andrealphus' next predictable move to hurt Stolas will be to use his love for his daughter.Episode would have gotten 1000x extra cool points if she sang HIM the "You will be ok" song while holding his wing, IMO.

[@Slowpoke3x]

​@@bunnyblackwell6107she loves her Father but shes still a teenager who's head is still up her own butt. Unless hes dying she's not gonna show for him this is just like him having a cold and has to stay in bed.

[@Noodlewerfer]

I think she might show up at the hospital later, I was under the impression that we were only seeing him right after he just arrived at the hospital. There's a good chance Octavia either hasn't heard about this happening or just hasn't made it there yet. Besides, it would be nice to have an episode where Stolas being stuck in the hospital is one of the main plot points and there's more time to spend on scenes like Octavia being with Stolas.

[@spazzyjazzy3361]

​@@Noodlewerfer I doubt we'll get to see her show up at the hospital. It'll be like the Asmodeus episode. After everything that happened there, it was probably weeks later that blitzø and stolas actually talked again. So they'll probably just do a time lapse to where stolas is fine.

[@alyssamurillo3982]

I can’t even imagine what Octavia would say if she found out what happened to her father and her finding out who caused him this much pain. It’s heartbreaking.

[@blackcat5333]

I kinda wish there was a scene after a credits where Octavia visits her father and when she asks him, "Who did this to you?" Stolas would either say the truth or lie, wishing to protect her.

[@ownerlesscat7523]

@@blackcat5333 Bruv it won't happen. Have you SEEN this fanbases? All they want are shippings. Not an actual good story.

[@Disig]

@@blackcat5333 I feel like he would lie to protect Octavia but Octavia would be able to find out based on context clues. That would be an interesting episode, plus her potentially confronting her mother.

[@EngineerRiff]

I don’t follow the series, so I’m wondering if it would be good is she did find out. What do you guys think?

[@cordyceps7531]

@@Disig nah we can’t do that. It’s too genuinely interesting to happen

[@danielferrieri7434]

This Episode has two sides Side 1: Stolas is Captured and Striker returns Side 2: Loona gets her Rabies S.H.O.T

[@valentinkambushev4968]

One is awesome, the other... is there, I guess.

[@falconeshield]

​@@valentinkambushev4968 I'm sorry I loved the SHOT scenes. I didn't feel Stolas was gonna die until the very last minute (until the cellphone) so the A Plot going almost there while the B was funny... it worked for me

[@kaykay8855]

​@@falconeshieldI like it too but I got to admit it is out of place.

[@jackchat19]

Why is Loona so quiet? In S2 E2 she didn't say anything in this episode she didn't say anything.

[@kanebarton6212]

Damn didn't know that 😦completely understand why then besides it works for this episode anyway since any dog usually just whimpers when going to the vet

[@OdenqueenVulpes]

My biggest complaint with this episode is that I feel like they turned Striker into a Chaz clone for some reason.

[@billcipher8645]

THIS! I'm so disappointed but I feel like every male character gets reduced to a Chaz melting pot

[@nerf_or_nothin9551]

I completely agree! Striker deserved better imo

[@SaltedRain]

Chaz with a southern accent

[@crazyluigi6664]

@@SaltedRain But more badass with himself.

[@toadlord8594]

Chaz spirit still lives on, his persona is practically the essence of Helluva Boss all wrapped in a shark face character.

[@customarymagic]

I feel like the writers needed to find a reason to keep Blitz away from the Stolas plot and just found a really, really strange way to do it.

[@julias.7534]

Arguably it almost would've been better if Blitz just didn't pick up the phone. Make it a tone piece, just Stolas and Striker as we're forced to slowly go from "Blitz is taking a while," "Blitz wouldn't leave me," "Blitz is a professional," to "Blitz isn't coming."

[@LinkEX]

As mentioned at 11:20, the reason itself is fine. It's the _extent_ to which the purely comedic B-plot switches back and forth with the serious main plot, as mentioned at 9:25. For instance, they could have reduced the B-plot to just the most necessary. Use it for one comedic cut to Blitz, Luna and the doctor chasing each other as the tension isn't quite as high and the M-n-Ms approach Striker. Cut out the whole stuff with the receptionist and the annoyed mom.

[@1slayer959]

I mean is it weird? He doesn't take stolas's kidnapping seriously and he does think of luna as a daughter. It makes sense that he'd treat the situational like this. And as for the tonal difference. This is still a comedy

[@Tsochar]

If Blitz had been the one to find Stolas beaten and bloody, he would not have been able to handle it and noped out of there. If that happened, the ship would be 100% dead.

[@1slayer959]

@@Tsochar ☝️

[@abbeywoods6846]

I feel like the Loona/Blitz fight was supposed to demonstrate how Blitz was so removed and unaware of the severity with the Stolas situation. He’s super casual because he thought Stolas was untouchable, so he feels like he can still have his typical shenanigans. But at the end of the episode, he realized his terrible mistake. I think he’ll start taking Stolas’s feelings/safety more seriously moving forward

[@lapetitelumierenoire]

I 100% agree with this.

[@Cristin647]

Agreed!

[@SarcasticChorus]

Good Idea in theory. But the shenanigans on top of everything else detracts way more than that idea adds imo. Especially if the next episode isn't a direct follow like say Blitz gets roped in by Fizz for shenanigans or he confronts his sister.

[@josgojiehyp2000]

Hopefully they don't just ignore it like their fight at the end of season 1. Or even worse, start doing it and then ruin it half way through with some sex joke.

[@matthewkoch8322]

@@SarcasticChorus i feel like if the episode was cut differently it works out alot better. Maybe lead with solely the B plot from just Bltiz's perspective and let the jokes out early and after he sees Stolas' feathers at the hospital we cut back and see him getting kidnapped and Moxie and Millie going to rescue him. The problem was the constant cutting back and forth but had they been seperate from the get go the episode coulve had a better tone overall.

[@kappatrappa]

What gets me is that Stella has never been advertised as a "dumb" woman or a bimbo archetype. Just a person who doesn't care for Stolas and would rather see him dead above all else. It rubs me the wrong way that suddenly she's portrayed as dumb and acts dumb when she's never once seemed to care much about getting anything out of Stolas dying than just seeing him dead. Edit: y'all, childish and dumb are not synonymous. you can be childish and not dumb.

[@amandaschott5897]

Yeah I feel like making her petulant and childish instead of just simply rich and heartless was a bad choice

[@EggyBenedict]

Big agree. Stella was always characterized as vindictive and cunning, but never stupid. The sudden choice to characterize her as airheaded and short-sighted feels like such a contradiction to how she was characterized previously. It makes me feel as though they wanted to (for some reason) water down her character in order to sideline her so they could introduce her brother, Andrealphus. He now plays the "shrewd manipulative villian" role in the plot that Stella frankly played just fine prior to this odd writing choice. Nothing against Andrealphus as a character but he feels so redundant and "Stella 2.0, smarter edition".

[@Mike117_]

She was never on screen enough to make a honest assessment of her character to begin with.

[@ThroughtheSkyIFly]

I thik you were reading too much of fanfiction, Stella wasn't "advertised" as anything in the show

[@adamH.1]

How was Stella a manipulative character? She always seemed childish, remember her temper tantrum back in episode 2 of S1? We didn't even see enough of her but we do know that she wanted Stolas to die so baldy she got blinded by her rage, which fits her character. Also she doesn't actually care about Stolas's belongings and heritage, it's Andrealphus who does and manipulates her. That was pretty well established in the episode

[@ricotheskunk3062]

I feel like it might be fair to mention that around the time voice lines were being recorded for this season, Loona’s VA sadly lost her partner to cancer, leaving her (understandably) too distraught to give her best performance, hence why Loona just growls this episode, and why we didn’t hear her speak in episode 3 either.

[@PRISMSHOWERS_P]

I felt there had a be a reason.

[@RAINBOWNIGTHMAREPRODUCTIONS]

Yet she’s credited

[@ifeeldead463]

​@@RAINBOWNIGTHMAREPRODUCTIONS i mean, that's still her character

[@RAINBOWNIGTHMAREPRODUCTIONS]

@@ifeeldead463 yeah but it’s weird because she doesn’t say anything in the episode. It’s like breaking bad where Walt Jrs actor or Bob odenkirk if credited when he or Saul don’t appear in the ep

[@Makarosc]

All the more reason to cut the subplot

[@confettiveda2460]

Not gonna lie, I thought that the part with Stella calling off the hit would have Striker going, "Sorry, Ma'am, he's already dead," while Stolas thrashes as he wants to torture and kill Stolas more than he wants money. I do very much enjoy everyone slowly coming to the realization that Stolas can legitimately get mortally wounded, and Stolas realizing that Blitzø can't/won't save him every time. And the sad part is that Blitø actually did initially freak out about having to balance between Stolas and his daughter's health and there's the fact that if Blitzø had gone to save Stolas after Loona's shot, Stolas would've been permanently mutilated by the time he got there.

[@aisaciurlea6217]

It's even worse when we remember that Stolas saved Bitzø without even being asked back in Truth Seekers, meanwhile Blitzø didn't help Stolas after he had asked for help

[@72horses75]

I thought the exact same thing. I thought because his whole thing is "down with the rich" and the fact that stolas called him out with him working for a royal. It doesn't make much sense he'd be so obedient for the money

[@lavellelee5734]

​@@72horses75angel weapons and money..... For him to take on the nobles he's gonna need the weapons to actually kill them, and a small army. A full on revolution

[@sailor.thighs8839]

Honestly it would be better if he kinda said fuck the money and killed stolas (as you said). It makes more sense for his character, especially considering some of his lines in the episode he debuted in

[@hehhehhehheh-wn7zz]

​​@@72horses75 ik, when Striker first showed up he was badass, threatening, and followed his own agenda. Now? It was so lame to see Striker let Stolas go. And this show takes place in hell, anything can happen. I got that vibe from episode 5. Stolas COULD die later in the series, Blitz COULD run off with Striker. For a show like Helluva Boss, NEED more moments like Blitz pulling a gun on that Karen's demon kid, or then going on earth missions. The hospital ring was NOT necessary in this episode. I honestly don't care to see that ring. There was so much hype for Striker, he was the ruthless one of the bunch that the show told us to look out for. And this episode could have gone in so many other ways than what we got.

[@defiante1]

My biggest issue is the tone shifts between characters abilities, in one episode they are highly capable even if prone to goofball antics and in other episodes their either helpless or barely capable. Moxie is always flipflopping between trained assassin and useless guy who is 100% dependant on Millie. Same with Striker, he went from the most badass imp bounty hunter to sort of okay. Stolas is either a Prince of Hell or a damsel depending on their mood. I'd just like a little consistency and it feels like they sacrifice a good story for cheap laughs too often.

[@catbatrat1760]

"and it feels like they sacrifice a good story for cheap laughs too often" ^^^^ THIS

[@NoirRaven]

Sadly, they get rewarded for doing that. The show's never been more popular 😩😔

[@ResearcherKeagan]

Stolas can instantly kill striker, I thought that’s why he had a sniper rifle in the 1st season. For distance, now he runs up on him Willy nilly? Man your right they’ve gotta stop sacrificing story for jokes

[@pie1o1morris46]

​@@ResearcherKeaganHe could instantly kill Striker /if/ Striker didn't have a bunch of holy weapons.

[@pie1o1morris46]

Gonna respectfully disagree here. Moxxie has always been somewhat skilled assassin, just not as skilled as Millie. He just lets his emotions/insecurities get in the way sometimes. In the first episode he didn't want to ruin an innocent family (someone theorized that his not wanting to kill the mom was due to his own mom being killed). In the first Striker episode he was trying to fight with his bare hands instead of with weapons (where his strengths lie) because he wanted to prove himself to Millie's folks. In the exes episode it was because it was against his dad, which understandably is trauma based. And in the summer camp episode his fault was his own insecurities and trying to prove himself, trying to do things his way to prove he could lead instead of listening to Millie. He's still good, just not as good as Millie and still needs to work through his insecurities, which he has been steadily working on throughout the series. Which shows his character development. On Striker I think he was still a badass in this episode, just as he was in his first episode. His success in kidnapping Stolas is proof of that and he would have succeeded in killing him had Stella not called when she did. And keeping in mind just how tough Millie is and that Moxxie was fighting serious this time with his strengths plus teaming up with Millie, Striker keeping them both at bay using almost his lasso alone is proof that he's still just as badass as he was before. On Stolas being a damsel in distress, this is the first time he was seriously in danger. The whole point of the Loo Loo Land thing was that he wanted Blitzø to be his knight in shining armor, a big kink of his as Sarcastic Chorus pointed out. He was perfectly capable of protecting himself and Via the whole time. He just wanted to live out his fantasy with Blitzø.

[@grease3873]

I dont know why but the tiniest thing in this episode that frustrated me was the nurse saying she cant spell or read then reading blitzø's name right after. I still dont know why 💀 Edit: for those saying it's cause they're in the sloth ring I know, but still it's too real for me how there are actually receptionists that are kinda like this and I'm sure we've all dealt with one. It's both frustrating and exhausting lol

[@kt5e438]

I felt the same way 😤

[@geoffreyrichards6079]

Perhaps that was the joke.

[@grease3873]

@@geoffreyrichards6079 ikik lol, but it just really wasn't for me ya know? ':)

[@Xsabarcorez]

It gave me the feeling of deadnaming somebody😢

[@0XBlondie96X0]

I can't help but think she did that on purpose just to be an ass

[@charici]

Besides changing the voice I also felt like they changed Striker his personality. In his debut episode he was menancing, collected and sly. Right now he seems too be way more emotional and easily triggered. He is still very dangerous and cunning but I feel like this change added to this episode feeling weirdish.

[@hsojuu]

Yeah, like even him being put off by Moxxie’s “harder”. It was funny but kind of didn’t make sense to me. He was literally flirting with Blitz last time we saw him, there was freaking sexual tension. Now he’s scared of a little sexual comment? That’s all it takes to distract him? Come on. Seems unprofessional.

[@maxraiola3726]

@@hsojuu I think he only like when it's himself who do sexual joke or when he is the one flirting he doesn't seems to like the other one to do that

[@kimirie-chan44]

There's a lot of factors giving off weird vibes about this episode tbh. When I finished watching the episode, it felt weird for some reason. Unlike the other endings of other helluva boss, I felt something. Like this one wasn't really made the way it usually would've. Sure stolas dying or being permanently scarred did make me feel worried, but as said in the video, it would've been better if the transition scenes didn't happen because it mostly confuses the audience on what to feel in a situation where you're supposed to feel scared for Stolas. Then striker, like you mentioned, in his debut appearance, he felt more menacing than this episode. It could be the voice but it can also be how his personality sorta did change. He was more erratic and easier to piss off. He was normal out of the rest of the imps and stolas though after feeling weird when stolas was talking about blitzo's intense moments in bed and moxxie's sudden pain kink to distract him. He doesn't seem to be into that kind of shit, and I dig for that. But in a way, his vibes just didn't feel like how we first saw him. Seeing his interaction with Stella too.

[@salemcrow5078]

@@kimirie-chan44 The whole episode felt extremely fast tbh. Everything just /happens/ and there's no real lead up. Like it's supposed to be a filler episode but then integral to the plot?

[@rosenrot234]

To be fair I'd be way more emotional if I had someone I absolutely hated right in front of me

[@trinityriordan2943]

My biggest problem, is that I couldn't take striker or the situation seriously, before he felt like a threat now with all the phallic jokes and slapstick comment he just seems more like a joke. And while Stolas was getting beaten down I just didn't feel the fear, especially after Stella called off the hit.

[@sophiatalksmusic3588]

Yeah; all the dick jokes really get stale after a while. They can be funny, but they really just bog the story down a lot of the time. We get it, penises are funny, let's get back to the plot.

[@artisticbeautybyhanako6801]

Fr thats one of the more smaller ways Vivzie lowkey comes off as a bit of a Pick Me, pandering for the male audience in the higher ups

[@dionemartins0212]

@@artisticbeautybyhanako6801 most out of pocket thing i've heard today lmao

[@PlayerOne.StartGame]

1. Despite claiming to hate all royals not only is Striker employed by one (both times he has gone for Stolas) but Stella is the model of the type of royal he claims to hate. 2. In spite of his claims of having nothing Striker seems to be doing well for himself, his own lair, complete with bar, giant statue of himself, and Stolas was even jealous that he has his own theme song. 3 .The Asmodean crystals where in Goetia mansion back when Stolas and Blitzø were kids so it may be why Stolas was in the arranged "marriage" as payment for them, not Stolis making a deal with Andro.

[@billcipher8645]

I think this episode is Striker's character assassination. Let me explain His talk about overthrowing the hierarchy seemed like a genuine goal of his but he is not stupid. He knows he needs allies and not more enemies, that's why he tried to see common ground with Blitz. My thinking is he would kill Stolas and later Stella, maybe even Octavia too if that's what it took to reach his goal. The first episode he appeared in it seemed like he is the type who is stealthy, doesn't show off his side hustle and true intentions. Yes, he has an inflated ego but I guess you have to have it at leaaaast a little bit to believe you have a chance against the whole monarchy. In the newest episode however.. he doesn't even try to to capture Stolas in a way that doesn't immedietely catch everyone's attention. He shouldn't even try to capture him to torture anyways, yes, he was ordered to do so but Stella would have no idea if he actually did it. He seemed like a guy who just wanted to get the job done quick and after gaining Stella's trust go for her. In this episode he seems more.. obedient towards Stella and not like someone with his own ideas but an insignificant henchmen or the monarchy's footrest. That's certainly not in character

[@toadlord8594]

Honestly rewatching the episode Striker seems to be kinda a hypocrite seeing as for all his talk about hating the Royals and his classism, he’s still directly following Stella’s orders the VERY kind of Royal you’d think Striker would despise. I supported it If he was using Stella as long game plan of getting money for his own interests by getting more money from her but it seemed to have been turned into more of a goon for hire than a Villain with his own goals and agenda as OG Striker seemed as.

[@sharifrowe7812]

@@toadlord8594 Ok tbh I think that's just a case of us not seeing More of him. We of course know he works with Stella and he is getting funds from her. But do we know that he plans on backstabbing her once he's steady enough to go after multiple Royals? After all he still needs funds for his holy weapons and artifacts which must be worth more than we believe

[@rosenrot234]

@@toadlord8594 Lots of people are hypocrites. Why should fictional characters be exempt from it?

[@redjirachi1]

1 might be more forgivable if it reveals he's trying to get close enough to Stella to put her in blade range.

[@Golden_eye21]

This episode really just put into perspective how *powerful* Charlie and Lucifer actually are. Angelic weapons are the be all end of all of any hellborn creature no matter the hierarchy. We see with Stolas and how weak he becomes with a bit of angelic rope. It makes you realise that Charlie and her dad are almost on the level of invincibility, as they are immune to the affects of angelic weapons so are practically unkillable. NOTHING is a threat to them in hell.

[@falconeshield]

Oh boy oh boy what if someone tried using the rope against Charlie and she'd be like "That tickles!"

[@sasori2425]

Lucifer is a fallen angel along with all the 7 sins (at least biblically they are) and Charlie is half of that plus lilith. It's a little hard to even assume they effect them in the first place.

[@darkwhispersstories47]

Well she demonology wise should be the antichrist right? I highly doubt angel sh*t works on her since she is half angel

[@SokkolTheDragon]

I really want to see someone in Hazbin hotel completely catch Alastor off guard with the rope then in a later episode he tries to use it on Charlie only to find out it doesn't work on her and get caught even more off guard. It's unlikely but it would be very entertaining.

[@MASTEROFEVIL]

What if he went to earth or heaven?

[@thehistoryandbooknerd8979]

Something different they could’ve done for this episode in order to help the tone could’ve been to replace the positions of I.M.P. - have Blitzø go to save Stolas and have Moxxie and Millie help Loona get her shot. Let the vet be the comic relief to the intensity of Blitzø fighting his inner demons and getting to see Stolas in a full moment of hardcore vulnerability; let Blitzø see it in full; Stolas, the untouchable force of royalty, beaten and bloody and near dying. Maybe even have it shown how the angelic weapons prevent any speedy healing from Stolas’s end. Let it sink in in person for Blitzø and Stolas both; that he can get seriously hurt and even killed. Maybe even force the two to talk whilst trying to not die as they run, gun, and hide from a bloodthirsty and mocking Striker going full intimidating assassin mode with Stolas in his weakened state, even after the holy lasso being removed.

[@Jaspy-Alue_KittyKode]

This honestly is what I was expecting them to do? When Blitzø slammed the car into going faster I though that was a sign of like "Fuck.. I gotta save my bird" Kind of thing, only for it to turn around and send M&M to do the job? As much as I think it made sense for Blitzø to be the one with Loona, as I think she would've been much worse with M&M just based on relationship. But I think Blitzø experiencing that situation with Stolas would've made a huge impact in a good way

[@thehistoryandbooknerd8979]

@@Jaspy-Alue_KittyKode agreed with the Blitzø and Stolas part! Though I can see it being an actually nice moment - Millie trying to force Loona to “just get it over with and stop being a cry baby!”, meanwhile Moxxie would fight to be the level head and maybe have a nice moment where he’s able to calm Loona down and she’s able to get the shot.

[@mateleacloverae]

I think him not being there himself when Stolas was actually in danger could hit just as hard. Also, since Striker escaped, we could be expecting a showdown where Blitz gets to make up for this.

[@Honeybunny_bun]

I like to think it was made purposeful to show they both have other people they deeply care about, if blitz had traded jobs with m&m that would've been terrible for loona because that's her father. So in a way i am glad the situation was the way it was to show that blitz cares about loona, it's about caring more avout your children than your partner you know?

[@thehistoryandbooknerd8979]

@@mateleacloverae I didn’t think of it like that! I hope they do! That sounds awesome!

[@Midnightsons-Unlimited]

Those text messages on Stolas’s phone are some of the saddest I’ve seen. I think that Blitzø does care, but he’ll need to make more of an effort or at least open himself up more to Stolas.Also, that fight scene between Moxxie, Millie and Striker was awesome! I did squeal with delight at the beginning when Stolas checked his phone and there was a reminder to see Ozzie's in 3 days.

[@hsojuu]

You literally said everything I was thinking, thank you lol Also this season kind of feels like a show that has been suddenly shortened or canceled and the authors had to make everything fit in shorter season. Which is NOT the case so… idk, it’s weird.

[@crazyluigi6664]

I mean, to be fair, the original Episode 8 for the actual Season 1 finale has been in (and still is in) developmental Hell due to reasons we do not know of right now.

[@hsojuu]

@@crazyluigi6664 yeah, but I’ve heard it was confirmed that episode would be not canon or at least not about plot or something. Thought it might have been just rumors.

[@fluffycorn_njst]

@@hsojuu it’s said to be non vital to the main plot so it’s not a big loss on our part, just that it’s meant to be more of a celebratory episode finale for season 1, from what I remember. But due to legal shit we aren’t able to know what the reason is for the hold up, but again, Viv had announced the ep isn’t main plot heavy.

[@hsojuu]

@@fluffycorn_njst yeah, that’s what I’ve heard

[@Meggy215]

The pacing is so rushed and the plot jumps so much you dont really feel anything about any scene. The "date" at ozzys for example was really well writen. Facial expressions and the interactions were so good. Now everything feels kinda flat.

[@thesupernaturalhouse]

10:25 I feel like what wouldve been funnier is in the battle it just cuts to Blitz and Loona still in the waiitng room like "while everyone else has been fighting they've had to wait like an hour in this waiting room" and Blitz looking worried while looking out the window

[@valentinkambushev4968]

Where were you when they were writing this episode?!

[@SkylerDemness]

THAT would have been amazing!!!

[@ghostlyexe]

Idk, I think that the end where Blitz admits he didn’t think Stolas could get hurt explains why he wasn’t worried. He trusts Moxxie and Millie with being able to save him from Striker but Stolas also didn’t seem very concerned on the phone. They also did the same in episode 2 of season 1 at the end where they went to help him when he was being followed by the assassins. It was also shown that Stolas didn’t need Blitz to protect him, he invited him along to just flirt and spend time with him. If Stolas isn’t concerned and M&M are on the case, why would he worry? He thinks Stolas is basically untouchable, why would he think he would actually get hurt? He didn’t even know he could get hurt and Stolas didn’t start to worry until after he realize Blitz wasn’t coming and he had no way to defend himself because of the blessed rope taking away his powers. I feel like what they did in the episode works because Blitz doesn’t actually know that he should be worried about Stolas. I really liked the whole fight into the vet scene, it was fun and it gave me Scooby Doo vibes. It gave me a good laugh, it definitely fit with the music. It also worked well with showing Loona and Blitz together while not having Loona’s VA in the episode (unfortunately she’s currently going through the loss of her bf 😢)

[@thesupernaturalhouse]

@ghostlyexe I never said he had to be worried about Stolas. He could've been worried about MnM. Though of he was worried about Stolas it would be lore consistent, seeing as he knows Striker has a holy weapon, which is known to kill royalty; striker literally said it to Blitzs face they could kill stolas 2nd, I never said the vet thing wasn't funny, it is however what could've made it better would've been what I said. I mean yeah the running was funny but when you think about it wouldn't there be special things to restrain hellhounds? Muzzles and such seeing as their considered less then human er, demon? Less like a person and more like an animal

[@thesupernaturalhouse]

Honestly Stellas brother, i love him, he's so done with everyone and looks so done with his sisters shit- i loved him for that

[@bigmeatyclaws28]

fr lmao he’s up there on my favorite characters list

[@redrose4969]

Let's be honest-everyone was done with Stella's s***

[@jayceallen6530]

I thought it was kinda weird how touchy he was with her though

[@thesupernaturalhouse]

@Jayce Allen mehz trying to persway her into going along with his ideas it's a manipulation tactic

[@Vamptre]

@@thesupernaturalhouse Although i agree with you bro said ''you're lucky you're beautiful'' to his SISTER

[@geogg2455]

Im actually kind of disappointed with what they’ve done to Stella this episode because it changes her character and tone COMPLETELY. They’ve dumbed her down; being unable to even slightly comprehend the implications of killing stolas and what that would mean for her and her daughter is just out of character and well, stupid. They’ve made her stupid to accommodate for her brother to be the next villain and brains… when she already had what it took to be a fleshed out villain. She has now taken a back seat to her brother. I saw her as a cruel and strategic character who wants to make the lives of those she dislikes a nightmare just because. She was loud but intimidating. Now… I see her as the ‘dumber’ one.

[@jaydajohn5041]

I get what you mean but she’s been trying to kill him with striker since the moon festival in episode 3. Her plan was always just to kill him. She never cared about more money or her daughter. I feel like a lot of people saw her character that way because we didn’t know her that well in the beginning. But she kinda always like that

[@capootiscrepitoos]

@@jaydajohn5041 Yeah, the entire reason I loved Stella was because of how bluntly evil she was, gave me a serious Saturday Morning cartoon villain vibe

[@DenDarEmi]

Same, to me she felt like a Cersei Lannister but with her emotions on her sleeves more, but after this episode, not so much

[@geogg2455]

@@capootiscrepitoosYes exactly! It was hard to take her seriously, and I found her quite intimidating previously. She’s now a comic relief character to another character

[@geogg2455]

@@DenDarEmi Yes! Perfect comparison to be honest. Yeah I found her to actually be strategic, like how she schemed to torment Stolas as much as possible by staying in the house, even if she didn’t want to. She was genuinely evil. I see her as the comic relief character to another character now. She isn’t very intimidating anymore. Same with Striker, they Chaz-ified him a bit too.

[@grintheartist647]

My only issue with Blitz’s realization that Stolas can get hurt is that he knew the threat Striker possessed when they had their first fight.

[@gobygal]

Yes! I find the biggest problem with this episode is that this is the second appearance of striker. Imagine if this was the first episode he showed up. How much stronger would it be if we did it the other way around? He could have started as an assassin who is especially bitter towards royals. Then at the harvest moon festival, he isn't just hunting Stolas because of Stella, but because he is starting to execute his plan of taking out the royals. And how much scarier for both Blitz and Stolas as this is the first person to really hurt Stolas and he isn't messing around this time.

[@grintheartist647]

@@gobygal yeah literally in the episode they met Blitz was literally said didn’t like that he was trying to “off” Stolas behind his back.

[@grintheartist647]

If they were going to do this they could have at least not revealed the threat of Angel weapons and that Striker possessed them to Blitz

[@ijionclifton9148]

Yea maybe he didn't realize it or didn't think he could pull it off

[@PlanetZoidstar]

@@ijionclifton9148 Moxxie was aware of Angelic weaponry, I somehow doubt Blitzo didn't know about them. They still have Striker's Angelic Rifle.

[@alinelili2746]

It's really jarring how little to no tension is present in this episode. When we first met Stricker, he was so threatening, after a whole sequence of him humiliating Moxie, he nearly chokes him to death, the lighting and blurriness of the scene highlighting how dangerous the situation were, same with him trying to manipulate Blitzø after he was aiming heavenly weaponry at Stolas. This episode, the supposed PAYOFF, doesn't get treated with the seriousness that it deserved.

[@ijionclifton9148]

Yes it did 🤨 what you talking about

[@alinelili2746]

@@ijionclifton9148 I'm talking about how there is a whole comedic sequence in the episode that doesn't really add up to anything, breaking any tension there might have had in the part focused on Stolas. The episode where Stricker was introduced handles comedy and drama perfectly, one does not drags the other down, the same can't be said here

[@red-firefox]

Thank you, I also think this episode was very underwhelming.

[@gigachad3925]

I understand what you’re saying but at the same time I think the tonal dissonance is to highlight how both Stolas and Blitzo don’t take it seriously until the stakes really kick in. For Stolas it’s when he realizes that Striker actually has weapons that can hurt him, and for Blitzo it’s when he realizes that Stolas got hurt. The entire purpose of the B plot is to communicate how Blitzo thinks it’s a normal, low-stakes day, but when the information does get to him, the stakes hit him like a TRUCK, and the tone shifts beautifully with it.

[@alinelili2746]

@@gigachad3925 I see what you mean! And I can understand the intention, but I think the Blitz parts with Loona could have been just small scenes to communicate what they were doing at the moment, not a full B plot. While I can understand the purpose, I don't think it should come at the detriment of the episode, it was especially jarring at the fight sequence with the MMs, I didn't even realized how good of a fight it was until this video highlighted, because I was seriously taken out of the situation when they showed Loona fighting the doctor

[@Ch1l1C0nCarnag3]

I think the entire Blitz and Loona B plot could have been cut entirely, with only them going to the hospital and them leaving the hospital at the end being shown. Have Blitz be covered in blood and scratches with Loona in her cone to indicate things didn't go smoothly inside, and just have the scene play out as normal. We could have had everything that happened inside the hospital as its own separate short, instead of detracting from the main plot.

[@drallak442]

I fully agree! I think that would have made the absence of Blitz hit all the harder when Stolas realizes his Blitzø isn't coming, and it would have given more time for the stakes to be raised to create a more serious tone to give Striker more credit to his ego.

[@jocelynsmyth6604]

I agree - I think it was a missed opportunity to have him walk in the door of the hospital and have it shut behind him, making him unavailable for the whole episode

[@suzannelatham7771]

Seeing Stolas realize Blitz doesn't care about him and Blitz realizing Stolas got hurt and how he really does care got me.

[@Levi-cb7vg]

This whole season has been like this, weird tonal shifts, some writing that even feels first draft. But then the have that bit in the end with Blitz realizing Stolas is hurt and I remember why I loved this show. I really hope they can focus up and get back to the good writing we saw in Season 1 because when it's there... DAMN

[@averyvaldez1371]

It feels like the romance and dynamic has been thought out thoroughly but the plot itself was on the back burner which is why everything seems so wonky

[@Meggy215]

I already wondered if they changed out writers or somebody quit. The first season was so clever and well written. They really knew how to deliver emotional moments and the pacing and timing was good as well as the jokes. In season two the pacing is all over the place. A lot of scenes feel super random and the humor is less clever. There are songs that just seem to be there, so there is music. I hoped with S1 Ep1 that that was just a phase but the timing and writing suffered since S2 and didnt returned to S1 standards till now :/.

[@gamingdragonofmordor3770]

Honestly my biggest problem with the “he can get HURT” is because… Blitz already knew this, considering Striker was trying to coax him to his side in season one and Blitz saw he had an angelic weapon. Though I suppose you could read it as he never actually expected him to get hurt, and viewing it from that point makes the moment work really well, the delivery just doesn’t give off that intention to me tho. Idk, that’s just my take on it

[@Meggy215]

@@gamingdragonofmordor3770 That also confused me a lot. Moxxy probably told him off screen how nasty those weapons were and the first time he "just" tried to snipe stolas. Second time he was captured and unable to use his powers ._. The whole relationsship is just so incredible toxic that its beyond repair for me. I hope Stolas grows a spine and gets with somebody else (which probably wont happen ;-;)

[@the-annoyinator]

But even that final scene of Blitz makes no sense whatsoever, garbage writing for all of Season 2

[@Icepiq72]

It’d be cool if Loona’s extreme meltdown about getting a shot had to do with her childhood trauma. I know it does, but there could’ve been at least a mention or some implication even indirect

[@2n974]

Traumas, traumas, all you want to watch is traumas

[@leonarose738]

I definitely think it had to do with the terrible life she used to live. I can especially tell that she has gone through a lot by the scene we see of her in the adoption place when she tries her best to curl up away from everyone and hide while breaking into tears.

[@rezkel7404]

I feel the tone was done on purpose, that we are meant to feel like there is no danger because its Stolas, who is an extremely powerful demon, has never really been in danger before. We are meant to think this is just another time where he is tricking Blitzo to be his Knight in Shining armor, because that is what Blitzo is feeling. He never saw Stolas as a person capable of being hurt either physically or mentally and the thought that he can basically rocked his world view.

[@tayloradams3993]

honestly I do wish it stopped cutting so much to the B plot the moment Stolas got stabbed.. like let it be Stolas all the way through, and then at the end see Blitz and Loona just before we get that "He can be hurt...?" Line

[@justanotherweirdo11]

​@@tayloradams3993 Agreed.

[@ravwoofles3858]

That would only work if they would have stopped cutting away once Stolas realized he was in real danger because Blitz wasn't coming, then only cut back after the rescue to show how unaware blitz was.

[@lovediedin2009]

i dont see why they would do that though ... blitz isnt the main focus of this episode & its not even told through his perspective since he's not even there so iunno why they'd do that

[@sorgius01]

Ummm... Couse it's a juxtaposition between Blitz's - at the time - relatively carefree mindset and the actual severity of the situation, so the whiplash effect on him is more impactful as he realises that Stolas can actually get seriously hurt?

[@dogmaticeuthanasia]

i'm glad there are so many other people that are recognizing the issues within helluva's TONE. the last ending minutes were the ones that had me completely captivated in the episode, and were unironically the few minutes that everyone remembers and recollects. i love the comedy in helluva, but they need to find a proper place for it. the hospital bit was good, in theory, but was so extremely out of place.

[@mateleacloverae]

Agreed. I wanted to just see the epic battle scene between Striker and the M&Ms but the hospital cuts made it difficult to enjoy. If the effort of those scenes went into a longer fight, that would have been great. We could still see Blitz and the Doctor at the end looking beaten up and understand that Luna did that.

[@dogmaticeuthanasia]

@@mateleacloverae that’s a really good point, and an even better idea. i agree that they should have gone that route instead. they were funny, but made scenes hard to take seriously

[@Ninjaananas]

Helluva Boss is a comedy first and foremost and was intended to be exactly that.

[@dogmaticeuthanasia]

@@Ninjaananas Of course, but some episode lean further from that. Episodes like Ozzies or Truth Seekers where it remains relatively serious and the comedy is well placed and makes SENSE. I hope I'm getting my point across well enough.

[@NoirRaven]

​@@Ninjaananasthe problem was they gave us a dramedy in S1, E2 and progression to both the story and characters. You can't really backpedal from that without cheapening the experience. There was no reason why they couldn't have evolved it to be a dramedy similar to MASH where they were able to balance both aspects in a way that didn't insult the audience watching.

[@hehhehhehheh-wn7zz]

Striker was so cool because he was threatening, followed his own agenda, and early on the show it felt like anything could happen because it's hell. To give up on killing Stolas because of a phone call, they really just threw out 2 years of build up.

[@КнязьМаксир]

Commercial assassins care for their reputation. And if you are unable to follow direct orders, you are damn shitty assassin.

[@tajklair]

I feel sorry for Stolas. He deserves better.

[@kaykay8855]

He really does. A loveless marriage, a one-sided toxic relationship, is a disaster recipe

[@sunman2849]

@@kaykay8855 to be fair though. To blitz stolas is only using him for sex. Which makes him feel more hurt than stolas can understand

[@kaykay8855]

@@sunman2849 oh yeah, I forgot about that. So yeah, a toxic relationship on both ends.

[@falconeshield]

​@@sunman2849 Oh god this is Catdora again. JUST. TALK.

[@blookp]

He deserves worse they should’ve killed him off maybe would’ve fixed the show

[@EZippy577]

In defense of the B-plot: it is becoming increasingly obvious that the helluva boss story revolves around fatherhood. It has also made it obvious (since the Looloo land episode, frankly), that Blitz doesn’t think Stolas needs him for anything more than sex- at every turn, Stolas is more powerful, more cool-headed, more durable than any of IMP or all of them combined. And Blitz, apparently, puts this to the test physically and emotionally, practicing his sadism in bed and in text messages. These two things combined really points toward a plot where Blitz is prioritizing his daughter first and foremost, and his story with that still has the goofy tone- he doesn’t think anything is wrong or WILL be wrong- except if it has to do with where he is and what he’s doing. While Blitz is growing more empathetic to his friends over time, we’ve only consistently seen him show affection to Loona. So while the b plot is funny and a little tone-deaf to the a plot, it feels necessary to show how disconnected from Stolas’s reality Blitz really is, and to reiterate that at the end of the day, this is a show about dads.

[@crazyluigi6664]

Honestly, I'd more say it was either the pilot or the very first episode outside of that myself for Blitzø thinking it was primarily about sex himself. After all, that was how he got the grimoire that lets IMP go into the human world (which we admittedly have seen less and less of lately) for their business in the first place. The question there is whether he can grow more empathetic to Stolas as well, with Stolas figuring things out with Blitzø right back.

[@planepancake4426]

It's less that I think plot B wasn't necessary. It's more that I think this simply wasn't the episode for it. Plot B just doesn't fit the seriousness of plot A, and because of that, the show suffers from it (maybe not to the degree of becoming an awful episode, but just enough for it to turn from a good episode to a 'meh' episode. Personally, once I had finished watching the episode, I was kind of left disappointed. I didn't really take much away from the episode, other than Stolas being hurt and how cool team M&M were). So it's less that plot B is bad, and more that this was not the place to put such a plot line

[@ordinarylittlebastard3248]

I don't agree with it. Yeah, I can understand the tone differential, but was this really the episode for it? Was it really worth sacrificing more time for the buildup of Striker, Stolas and the M&Ms to have this high-stake confrontation where if one fails they might lose their life, with 50% of the episode being about Blitzø and Loona going to the vet? I wouldn't mind it in another episode, but why did it have to be here and take half of the episode to show a handful of minutes of screentime for a character that can't even speak as of now?

[@hopperjohn7207]

It actually makes sense that Andrealphus is trying to acquire more power through his sister as he is a Marquis with less power, authority, and legions (though it doesn't quite jive with how Stella tried to use him as a threat) compared to Stolas who is a Prince. If Octavia inherits then that's it, it seems. She assumes Stolas' princedom in full and Andrealphus can't touch it. But through his... less savvy sister, he can leach enough of Via's inheritance to ascend the Goetian hierarchy of power.

[@IcyDiamond]

I was honestly worried on how Stoliz would be handled after their portrayal in Seeing Stars, luckily this episode didn’t really upset me when it came to their relationship

[@soldiersgr996]

It's honestly still sad, this tells us a bit more about their relationship. It seems Blitzo thought of Stolas as some type of god and couldn't actually be harmed or killed, he also seemed genuinely upset that Stolas was actually hurt and could've been killed too so I think Blitzo will have some regret also.

[@lolli_popples]

This episode felt like it was from Blitzø’s perspective even though he wasn’t there. I’ll explain. Blitzø doesn’t think Stolas can get hurt. He sees him as invincible and this episode made me feel like Blitzø does. I didn’t feel like Striker was a danger to Stolas. I knew he was, factually, but it felt like everything in the tone was telling me the opposite of what my eyes were seeing. The true “tone shift” and departure from humor comes after Blitzø’s line “He can get hurt?” Like a sudden marker to the audience that this WAS serious. He was in danger, and it’s only gonna get worse from here. I don’t know if this was the best choice story-wise, but it is what I experienced, and I’ll let people decide on their own whether or not they enjoyed it. (I personally would rather have seen Striker seeming like an actual threat) But when he was a threat last time, its because he was a threat to IMP. He wasn’t trying to kill IMP this time, so maybe that’s why he wasn’t portrayed as one.

[@scottchristofersen2367]

I think it would be interesting if Stolas really can’t be hurt… unless he lets it happen. Which… he might if he believes Blitz doesn’t care to save him.

[@fluffycorn_njst]

That’s an interesting take to see with the tone shift, although there’s the issue with most of the audience probably and had *already* perceived it as something that should be taken more seriously whenever Stolas’ life was threatened by Striker. I understand what you mean by how it’s could’ve been played out through Blitzø’s POV without him being there and the tone taking in the assumed fact that Stolas is “invincible” and can’t get hurt, so we see the plot go about in a more goofy way and less serious, while nailing the serious mark after Blitzø says his “he can get hurt” line along with his realization of it. *BUT* like I said, there’s the issue with how at some parts, it became quite serious and terrifying like when Striker cut Stolas off and stabbed him with the holy knife for the first time. Detaching it from the initial “okay this isn’t quite serious” vibe to a “oh shit this CAN be serious” one. Which doesn’t work if we’re looking this through Blitzø’s mindset of Stolas’ assumed invincibility. If you know what I mean? But I get it, really. And on the off chance that Viv wanted to turn the direction this way, I gotta say it’s definitely interesting and cool, but might not be the most obvious form of writing with how a lot of people are prone to misinterpret the weird tonal shift that’s going on throughout this episode. Still though, I’m glad there’s this way of interpreting the plot direction to make it seem like it’s following a somewhat cohesive storyline and consistent characterization, namely Blitzø’s ill-minded assumption that Stolas is this untouchable being that can’t get hurt physically or emotionally, which we all know is actually the opposite.

[@scottchristofersen2367]

@@fluffycorn_njst it probably won’t happen because it’s not the typical plot but… it would be interesting and refreshing and HoaB does that occasionally. I’m sad the episode wasn’t what it might have been with some Loona dialog. I mean I get it… but it’s sad.

[@sqkoi]

i like this way of thinking. i think this puts an interesting spin to the story

[@zanyawesome30]

This was literally how I took the episode, so I was so surprised when I hopped online and a bunch of people were being so negative about this episode. Frankly I loved the way they did this, but apparently I had different expectations. I didn't take stolas life seriously just like blizt but I'm starting to think that I see this show more as a comedy drama then a drama comedy than a lot of Twitter so I have a different perspective

[@onijester56]

Last season, the lesser parts were centered into full episodes... for example, CHERUB feeling like raw filler. In this season, it's more diffused: no single episode is genuinely bad, but almost every episode has something lacking because it's trying to do everything at once. This said, I do appreciate the perspective I saw below about how the "Blitz's Shenanigans" B-plot highlight Blitz's naïve view that Stolas can't be hurt.

[@jasonjasso666]

Striker felt as if he was gonna become a self-made Overlord killer, yet he accepted pretty easily how he couldn’t off Stolas, especially since he was so close. It never felt he was in it for the money, unless he had bigger long-game plans he’s never mentioned.

[@billcipher8645]

Exactly, this episode ruined Striker forever

[@bee1001]

The show needed to make up its damn mind whether he was doing it for the money or for some sense of pleasure. "And some of us have everything we care about taken away by fuckers like you" Had so much potential, maybe if he was torturing for his own sake instead of for Stella's? There was no way to verify he was being tortured anyway Stella wasn't watching and it seemed like she only cared about him being dead. The whole "your wife wanted me to torture you" was definitely a plot point to make sure he didn't just instantly kill Stolas. As at the Harvest Moon Striker was literally aiming to shoot him. Adding a personal vendetta would've added a lot more tension for sure, and made more sense given how long he kept him alive.

[@gigachad3925]

In complete good faith, I would like to offer some pushback to what you’re saying. First of all, it’s not like Striker happily abandoned the original plan. He obviously was going to get enjoyment out of killing Stolas, which is a big part of his character. Even still, his bloodlust came through in his effort to take Stolas’ eyes as “trophies”. Second, the fact that he begrudgingly accepted Stella’s change of plans is actually incredibly consistent with his character. If we keep his thematic emphasis on class struggle in mind, it actually makes sense that he would back down and take the money from Stella, because it means he’s making MORE than he would have. Being able to get more money is actually a big priority for him, because as he illuminated in his speech, there’s obviously a big class divide in hell, so getting paid is a big deal for imps such as himself. If it’s a matter of sustaining himself, obviously he’s going to take the money. People are calling him a hypocrite for calling out royals yet working for Stella, but how else is he supposed to make money as an assassin? I’m sure he despises Stella as much as Stolas, but he can’t let that show when money’s on the line. We still have no idea if he does have any bigger plans long term, which may end up targeting people like Stella and Andrealphus as well.

[@bee1001]

@@gigachad3925 I love this whole take, I just wish that the show put more effort into putting those nuiances into highlight. It's so hard to believe the arguments Striker is making regarding having to struggle when there's that big statue of him just looming in the background. I think a lot of the issues I have with Strikers portrayal in this episode resolves around that statue. The fact that he got defensive about that saying "Are you really judging me right now?" After Stolas called it out it being "A Classic" Versus the actual interesting call out regarding the whole working for a Royal situation. If we just a had a small line of Striker saying "It's what's gets me paid" That would've been wonderful. You can absolutely infer these things about him but I feel like it was the shows responsibility to make it more obvious, focus on it and flesh it out more. Instead of squishing this integral part about his character in a small speech that's immediately followed up by more sex jokes. Especially since I mentioned earlier the show itself doesn't seem to follow the narrative of his priority being money, he seems pretty well off for himself and if he had enough notoriety to get hired by a Royal, what's to stop him from getting different clients? Stella is just a client after all.

[@nexthegamer7221]

@@bee1001 Well, to be fair, Stella is a client with a lot of influence. If he goes off script, it's not going to be difficult for Stella to warn people that he's an unreliable hitman. And if a royal can't keep him in line, a regular demon won't have a chance. Not to mention her brother possibly managing to spin a narrative to pit the rest of the Goetia family against Striker, and while he's definitely tough, I don't see him beating several Goetia members at once. Overall, betraying Stella right now is probably just way more trouble than it's worth for him.

[@AriaKyuKyu]

I'm surprised you didnt mention how Andrealphus is just here out of nowhere with no introduction. Stella's mentioned him as a big deal in the first episode of season 2, but he just appears in this episode like we all know who he is and is jarring.

[@eatatjoes6751]

He just pops out of nowhere, no grand entrance or anything...

[@itskatplayz]

Most of the fandom watches videos like these constantly so they already knew but yeah i do kinda agree like id like to walk into the shop first or something

[@spiceo2]

ikr? it was so weird.. not to mention in the same episode he was the one to suddenly convince Stella not to have Stolas killed- at that point all of the underlying suspense that had been building up over multiple episodes kind of just disappeared :l

[@AriaKyuKyu]

@EchoAccord1216 i Know, by at least an introduction to the character would have been nice

[@ChesireWaltz]

AH! I know who he is but that is what felt wrong! If you only watch the shows you're going to be like wth who is he?! You shouldn't need outside materials just to know who a character IS

[@krampus7520]

Striker’s straight panic was pretty strong. felt like Striker turned straight over the duration of his absence.

[@mateleacloverae]

Maybe he just really isn't into Mox? 😅 He was already totally into himself in the Harvest Moon ep, he probably only flirted with Blitz because he was the only one who could keep up with him (they tied in the competition).

[@krampus7520]

@@mateleacloverae yeah, but he seemed more like the type of person to see through that, or just not be bothered by it, but he lost his advantage in the fight because of his reaction

[@justice8718]

Perhaps Striker broadly fears sex.

[@sillysayuri]

@@mateleacloverae Didn’t Striker wink at a male imp in the harvest moon? I remember seeing that.

[@Moonlight.Howlings.666]

I love this episode, but what's heartbreaking was the ending. Since it seems Blitzø has the idea Stolas was untouchable, and is caught off guard that he can have the ability to get hurt. "He can get hurt?" that seriousness in the tone from Blitzø hit me so much in the feels I just wanted to give Stolas a hug. I feel that Stolas brings out the best in Blitzø, you can see in moments of need how much they both care for each other! However Blitzø certainly reserves himself, I feel he wants to avoid meaningful conversations in fear that he will face the realisation that their relationship is more than just an exchange, and gives him something he's worried to loose. But that's just my take! I've loved seeing their development throughout the series!

[@Kiterpuss]

I can see what the idea with this episode was. The contrast between Blitz's mundane everyday dad duties and Stolas nearly being tortured to death drives home the idea that everyone kind of assumed Stolas could handle himself. The intro to the two plots and that line from Blitz at the end sends that idea home beautifully - I especially loved Stolas defending his daughter as a parallel to Blitz trying to help his in the hospital. Even the duality of the hospital being goofy with Blitz and Loona, but becoming serious at the end with Stolas is cool writing. But the balance and nuance just wasn't where it needed to be in the middle of the episode and we lost the emotional impact because of that. It's as if the climax of the episode was in the last 30 seconds instead of in the middle of the episode, and it makes it feel unfinished.

[@UltimateDurzan]

bingo!

[@Alina_Schmidt]

Good take, mostly agree. But why is it bad if the empotional climax is in the end? I don‘t think so.

[@Kiterpuss]

@@Alina_Schmidt You need the climax to be in the middle so there's a slope of reduced tension afterwards. That's how it's the climax - you can graph the story tension and that is the peak of the parabola. If you have a climax in the plot right at the immediate end of a story, that's what we call a cliffhanger which is also an effective tool. But if you don't intentionally have a cliffhanger and you don't have the appropriate cool down, it lands in this awkward middle space where the story feels like the pacing is wrong or unfinished.

[@moaPro]

Exactly!

[@serperiorandtheanimator9216]

I feel like unfortunately, the problem with the latest episodes is vivienne herself- she’s the one writing the entire episodes, and it keeps happening- she can write a good musical episode. I’ll give her that. And I think the end is really beautiful. But the main meat of this episode kept me from feeling much sadness.

[@SaeyoungChoiBoi]

Did Brandon take a step back or smth? I sort of figured it was more Viv's influence because season two is... WAY different from season one..

[@grimsonforce7504]

@@SaeyoungChoiBoi Ah so that would explain the shift. I thought it was just me but season 1 ( yes even with it's problems) had more focused episodes and clearer writing than season 2. Season 2 is just all over the place.

[@hsojuu]

@@grimsonforce7504 Absolutely, there’s too much going on in one episode. I rewatched season one and for example, the episode where the agents catch Blitz and Mox is great. There’s some scenes with Loona and Millie, but there’s not too much + the tone isn’t too different, so it doesn’t pull you out of the mood. They’re worried and it shows. The episode has some humor but overall it’s taken pretty seriously, especially Blitz’s hallucinations. Even the colors in that episode are “darker” which builds a nice “it’s serious” atmosphere. It’s great. While here? I couldn’t even get actually scared or sad for Stolas cause of the B plot plus Striker seemed like a second Chazz in a few moments. Before I really got into the “oh shit stolas is in trouble” mood, the episode was already over lmao Very underwhelming.

[@harleyjune]

I've been having issues with this whole series too. It just feels weird. Every episode till now has been "father figure bad". Stolas+blitz have bad dad's is episode 1, stolas is accidentally bad dad is episode 2, moxies dad bad is episode 3, I was half expecting striker to have a sob story about his father this episode. Each one has been the same theme but re-skinned. The music and pacing have been all over the place and it's just lost whatever season 1 had that made it so good. The art style has gone up but the writing and production has gone down. S2E2 felt wayyyy off, Octavia running away should have been a much more serious plot point but most of that episode was just 'haha blitz is dressed as his voice actor, M+M are distracted and loona is rebellious teenager". For an episode about Octavia she was barely in it.

[@hsojuu]

@@harleyjune That’s true, the Octavia episode is actually my least favorite one tbh, maybe only Cherbuz is worse. I like the moment of Loona and Via bonding, but apart from that - this episode feels more like a filler if anything. Even tho it seems important from a plot view. Also don’t even get me started on how after the whole fiasco at Ozzie’s they talk like nothing happened. They argue A LITTLE, but it just makes it worse cause it’s like flirting to them lol

[@JamesWillmus]

I am SO thankful for Andrealphus in this episode. At least one character in the show (and by extension, the writers) sees Stella as being cruel and pretty, but also incredibly short-sighted and shallow as a puddle. There's no plan here beyond "kill Stolas" for her character.

[@rashan141]

Ehhh, I think you're giving him too much credit. Stella might be shortsighted but Andrealphus doesn't care that she's being cruel, not once is that shown throughout the episode, he's looking out for himself and that's made clear from when HE suggests getting of Octavia but Stella doesn't see that as an option. Stella petty but she's just that, petty, and not trying to kill her offspring nor get riches while Andrealphus DOES want all those things. It's clear that, most likely, he's going to do something Stella won't agree with. It's painted clear here that he both doesn't agree with her simpler wants and DOES look down on her for this same reason.

[@samitrahill5723]

@@rashan141 Exactly, finally someone who notices that Andrealphus was pushing her in the direction HE wanted to go.

[@rashan141]

@@samitrahill5723 I just don't understand how people miss it. It's extremely obvious that, despite everything with Stolas, Stella isn't on the same page. She just wants Stolas dead, not to hurt Octavia which will likely end up as some sort of turning point. Because if I may headcanon it a bit? I think she really doesn't know the effect she's having on her 'egg' and that's why she's so blatant about it. We ALL need to remember, these are NOT human beings. These hell natives who enact violence, pain, suffering, and sin on the daily. By all metrics, Stella might very well be what a demonic mother is like, she lets Octavia strive on her own but that's where Stolas differs. His father was like that and he wanted better for his own child. I believe that's where we'll get the dissonance between the two. I just can't understand why they're still married unless it was for some good reason. It's not like either of them CAN'T survive a break-up, they're literally both rich, assumably. If anything, there's likely something at play we don't see.... Hopefully.

[@JoaoPedro-eq3hj]

​@@rashan141 People miss it because the whole fanbase wants to make like every character morally better than Stella for some reason even tho most people in the series are actually horrible people? I mean geez, its hell, a wife who treats super badly her husband must be a regular occurance

[@rashan141]

@@JoaoPedro-eq3hj The weird part? It's like the show goes back and forth on how bad it is. Not once before the most recent episodes are we shown that Stolas, apparently, takes drugs or anti-depressants. So, what does this mean? Those kinds of things don't just pop up but are they from Stella? Or are they from Blitzo? Stolas has literally said to Stella he TRIED to make it work but I don't know what that means. He's a good FATHER but that doesn't mean he'd be a great person/husband, we don't know. Like, is this abusive angle new? It's made to seem like this ISN'T the norm. That Stella might have been a bit much, that they had their fights, but she's _NEVER_ gone out of her way to have him killed. I'm not sure if Stella isn't from this an intense amount or not and I hope we get an episode about who she is all the way down.

[@nolanstrife7350]

One of the most wholesome moments of this episode is Blitz saying to himself "He can be hurt?". But after pondering on that just a bit I realised... Didn't Blitz already know that? I mean Moxie, his subordinate, knows angelic weapons can hurt demon nobles, so he should know it as well. Plus, Blitz knows Striker possesses at least few of them, so... Why didn't it click? Why couldn't Blitz put one and one together and think "Stolas is kidnapped by Striker? Nah, no biggie. He can only be hurt by angelic wea... OH, SHI! THE STRIKER HAS ONE!"? Blitz is dumb, sure. But not THAT dumb, right?

[@SleepiAbyss]

Well, yes, he already knows Striker has angelic weapons. But I feel it is less of a physical thing. Sure, Stolas has been under threat by things like that before, but if you think about it Blitz has always just seen him shrugging it off, treating it casually, or using his expansive power to get out of it (like the dorks episode.) So when he recognizes that Stolas can't just get himself out of any situation, he isn't untouchable or all powerful, that's where the "He can get hurt?" comes in. Not the idea he can get hurt. The PROOF he can.

[@cakefrosting6451]

Sadly when he said that line about “he can get hurt” I was like “are you stupid” because Blitzo always knew that Striker was planning to kill specifically Stolas. It’s not like we just saw Striker and Blitzo just saw Striker for the first time, Striker gave Blitzo PTSD straight up from their first conflict. Blitzo would not be easily forgetting Striker like that, if he is internally tormented by his memories of Fizzarolli, Verosika AND STRIKER.

[@the-annoyinator]

@@SleepiAbyss The proof was there as soon as Blitz heard Striker's voice on the phone?? I swear HB fans be going through the tightest loops to make the show sound good

[@SleepiAbyss]

@@the-annoyinator My friend, I never said it was good. That's just my interpretation of it. (And anyways, just because the show isn't good, per say, doesn't mean it's not fun to watch.)

[@ltgsucceedssagaofthestraig820]

He even tells striker “I’m not fond of my client, that I offered a job, to go behind my back and off my easiest ticket to earth and back.” He knew about what Stryker could do and what Angelic weapons can do to stolas.

[@luckyduchesse8924]

I think the whole B plot was to make us see how unbothered Blitzø was, because he truly didn't think Stolas could get hurt. Because he's like a god to him. And at the end, we see Blitzø's perceptions changed. And I think that was the goal

[@shazaz1059]

I think it would have been executed a little better if plot B was dealt with first, like have a entire focus on the B plot with Blitz checking up on Millie and Moxxie's progress while waiting for the appointment.. getting little cuts to Millie and Moxxie's progress getting to striker and then once we finish the shot sequence we do a smooth shift into the Stolas torturing and Millie and Moxxie fighting Striker with maybe a few cuts back to Blitz who's trying to wait for mox and Millie to come back while maybe slightly getting concerned with how long it might be taking (but more so in a casual annoyed tone of "what's taking them so long") only to cut back to the struggle of the fight theeeen we get to the end of the episode where Stolas is sent in for treatment

[@billcipher8645]

Except Blitz knew what was at stakes, he stopped Stolas from being killed by Striker at Harvest festival just barely. It would have worked if it was the first meeting with Striker but not the second one

[@hsojuu]

That could have worked, but if it didn’t affect the viewer. I like the idea of showing Blitz is unaware of the actual danger, but that’s Blitz. I don’t want his perspective to ruin my perspective. The humor was too distracting from the tension in the A ploy, which was affecting me as a viewer. Hope that makes sense.

[@-Lunar_Eclipse-]

Andrealphes was such a treat in this episode he definitely became one of my favorite characters I literally laughed out loud when he called Stella "A stupid cow" and I found it interesting he even mentioned Octavia calling her Via mentioning how everything would be inherited to Octavia so he's clearly the smarter one and will probably be an even bigger threat than Stella or Stricker Also I'm fine with Strickers new voice actor he does a really nice job in his performance it's just when I first heard his voice my only complain was he didn't sound as sexy anymore but damn does he still look like it

[@gavinziozios1431]

My big issue with his new voice actor is that the western accent seemed toned waaaaay down

[@redjirachi1]

He's the evil straight man. Well OK, evil-er, since our protagonists are assassins, but point stands

[@sharkshakes]

striker.... its not that hard

[@darkwhispersstories47]

​@@redjirachi1 well uh..he called his sister attractive ..so even if he is straight his tastes are...well

[@Disig]

I look forward to more Andrealphes. Like, he seems smart. And that's dangerous. He could be a very good villain.

[@maybemintmochi_]

I honestly think the doctor's appointment was to create a sense of humor to provide comic relief, I liked it. It gives a reason as to why Blitz couldn't show up and makes Stolas question if he actually cares about him.

[@AMcGrath82]

Exactly. Even in Shakespeare's tragedies, he always included comic relief.

[@potatogamerfiber]

Sure, which is why he mentioned that it made sense to show some clips from the b plot. However, when you get to the height of the tension, continuing to cut to the b plot just ruins the flow & makes striker feel like more of a joke. The b plot felt like it was getting in the way since it was all just the same "chase around the room." After striker seemed terrifying in the last episode, this one just made him seem like a typical chaz with more damaging weapons

[@Lov3lyMoon]

@@potatogamerfiber They've could just show the B plot directly after the phone call with stolas and then switched to the more serious main plot to still show that affect but with better structure.

[@syca5094]

@Alexander Scott comparing Shakespeares concept of "comic relief" to helluva boss is crazy

[@the-annoyinator]

The B plot was literally just so Blitz had an excuse to not save Stolas, which is completely out of character for him to not do

[@emppu1012]

I enjoyed the episode, but I 100% agree. I didn't like how the very serious fight was accompanied by this slapstick-ish sequence of Luna getting a shot

[@disturbedpictures12]

Finally someone says what I’ve been thinking. Everyones been praising this episode when it’s…really weird

[@pitaalfereti58]

Absolutely. Don't get me wrong, I love the characters and all, but this show, and especially this episode is the definition of *Tonal* *Whiplash*

[@SS-ui7by]

Dunno about that,,,,I didn't find this weird at all, the constant back and forth keeps the viewer completely engaged and excited. And it was a nice way to show hell's different systems, prejudice in their society, how imps and hounds are treated regarding healthcare, what with how it took them 5 years to get an appointment for a yearly vaccination while stolas was not given a second's delay. No doubt, because or his nearly fatal injuries but still. How Blitz deals with it all, I was laughing all the way during the cuts. Imo, it was the best episode of the season yet, on par with The Circus

[@idi0tsanswich379]

The tone and stuff of the episode is definitely jank BUT that said, I personally think it is a step up otherwise in comparison to other recent ones, Ignoring the tone and story issues it's alright

[@ijionclifton9148]

Because its a good episode

[@lawrencfgsdfg]

i think that the structure of this episode is way more comprehensible and justifiable compared to the previous one... that one had issues to say the least

[@AMcGrath82]

I might be in the wrong, here, but I actually loved this episode. More Stolas, Loona being funny, and above all else, Moxxie acting badass. It was great.

[@supersunshine1023]

It’s kinda weird how some eps in this season like Stolas’s backstory or Moxxie’s dad eps have no subplots, have the whole episode for the plot, yet eps that have big things like Octavia running away to the human world or the return of Striker/Stolas in danger had to have subplots crammed in to them?

[@Lab-Gr0wn-Lambs]

I've been trying to figure out how to explain what I mean by the "weird delivery" in this season to my friends, but this video helped me nail it down. It's tonal whiplash, erratic pacing and sloppy joke timing. There's always excellent *content* in this show! Every episode has compelling themes, fun concepts, perfect visuals/choreography and engaging character development! But the delivery, overall, but this season especially, has been.. Weird.

[@sparklingsora]

yes oh my god, save for the very first episode, this whole season has felt kinda......... off to me in a way i cant describe

[@oceancoral557]

Yeah, I also never liked how suddenly blitz and stolas were childhood friends, felt like when people were pointing out the possibility that blitz and stolas relationship may have had a toxic start, the writers scurried to find a way to push the ship more, and suddenly made it so that they were childhood friends It was poor writing imo, but many other fans of the show have attacked me for it

[@lexx1745]

⁠@@oceancoral557 I always thought that was very fanfic-y. I’m glad it’s not just me that felt uncomfortable with that decision. It just puts their whole relationship in a very weird context, idk how to explain it. It feels like they’re pushing for Stolitz way too hard this season.

[@LD-hs9iv]

Yeah. Also just the whole thing in the last episode with the dildos in the walls just felt tasteless for me, especially since like the episode told us of Moxies backstory where his mom was actually fucking murdered by his dad, I think Like I get dark humor and all, I quite enjoy it but the writers don't seem to be reading the room of the scenes they're writing

[@steveyouraveragehamster9383]

EXACTALLY! They lean too much on corny jokes in the middle of serious drama. They need to stick to dark humor that *FITS THE TONE*. Like Guardians of the Galaxy 3 does this wonderfully. Having great humor via characters bantering with each other but also really serious moments which they properly transition.

[@MinterEvergreen]

I feel like I came up with an idea for better B plot, that is also tied to A plot, as is should be. My idea is: Via is being worried that Stolas is not responding for her phone calls, so she goes to her uncle's castle, knowing that her mother is there, so she can ask her whether she knows what happened, and she accidentally hears through doors Stella and Andre dissucing, where it plays out like in the original episode, but Stella is less willing to change her plans somewhere in the discussion the wrath ring is mentioned, Ovtacia hears that, and she tries to find Stolas herself, to inform him, but is found by Andre's gurads, and she hides from them, when she maneages to escape, we see her, in the wrath ring trying to find stolas, she sees the same dudes who helped Millie, they're like "Why does everyone always asks us about the same thing?", But they tell her that Stolas is in the cave, we don't know what happens to her until the line "If you go near her I will destroy you" is said by Stolas, then we see that Striker found Octavia (in this version Striker went for a walk, in the cave, because he was so infurated of Stolas's jokes, then he found Ovtacia off scene, he shows him her, saying "Two bird's with one stone I see" or something like that, Stolas doesn't think about something like, "he won't kill children of person he's working for", cuz he's just so scared of losing her, and she is too terrified to think about it either, then everything plays out the same as in the original, but, when MnM's are fighting Stirker, Millie unties Stolas, instead of cutting the statue, Striker realising that, grabs Via, and threathens Stolas, not to attack, or he will kill him, than Andrealphus and Stella shows up, Andre frozens up Striker, for stepping out of the what he was supposed to do. They take Striker and leave, while Mox, Millie and Via take's Stolas to a hospital, we see Blitzo beaten up, and Loona with the lamp shape thingy, (I don't know how is it called, that is implying what happened, than everthing plays out like in the episode, but we see Octavia's expression when Blitzo says "He can get hurt?" that is a mix of worrying, confusion, but also happiness. Because she finds out that the dude her fahter is sleeping with, isn't some asshole that is just trying to use him, but someone with an actual care for him. I know that it's kind of too Octavia based, but I honestly feel like she has smaller role than she should. And I also think that she just plays out in this idea soo well. So what to you guys think about this idea?

[@VanHellbright4763]

I absolutely loved this episode! So many new aspects of personality from each character. I wasn't entirely convinced about it before, but Brandon Rogers is able to play serious and urgent while still making it believable for Blitzø's character. My only "complaint" is that they couldn't get Norman Reedus to reprise his role as Striker, but Edward Bosco does a really good job at adapting the role. Wonderful episode as always!

[@ashleypisarts]

I knew that Striker felt a bit different, but it didn’t take away from the plot which is really good!

[@WaltDevil060]

I actually liked Bosco's voice more than Norman's. Not get me wrong, Norman is amazing as Striker and I will be very glad if he returns. But Edward was a lot more intimidating and a lot more menacing, while Norman's Striker was more seductive

[@natalies7485]

It definitely could have used more tension. Like it was hard to feel like Stolas was actually in danger, and Striker somehow felt less dangerous? (I didn't even catch the voice actor difference myself.) The S.H.O.T. subplot could have definitely used more substance, as it was purely there for humor. Still loved how everyone gave Striker sass and the fight scene was so good!

[@illnessbutmakeitmental8365]

Moxxie's whole "Harder ~" thing feels quite out of character for him imo. It's not that Moxxie *wouldn't* make sexual jokes, but in this particular context, it feels like something Blitz or Angel Dust would say (and is very similar to what Stolas HAS been saying throughout the entire torture scene). We already have hypersexual characters, we really don't need to make everyone else so hypersexual as well. And I also think Striker would not have been so easy to throw off guard with that. "What'cha moaning at me for, little dude? Think that's gonna' stop me after listenin' to that owl describe his entire sex life to me?" seems like a more fitting response he'd give, which not only would serve to keep him as this untouchable, intimidating force of nature, but also it could be a little self-aware quip where not everything can be resolved with an out-of-touch sexual joke.

[@puffimochi]

Dude, facts. Sure it is refreshing to see a character like Striker get uncomfortable at sexual jokes but I mean he literally has a statue of himself with an erection- which is also unfitting- so it's coming at a point for me where they kinda did killed Striker. I do love him being more fleshed out and having his own little comedic moments however this was too much. Also him being more offended, angered easily like a SpongeBob-ish character and listening to Stella's request with no fight back but just him mulling it over a bit just turned this cool ass all-business hitman who CLEARLY has goals to kill all royals... into a regular cartoony goon. I love and hate Striker this episode- which pains me so much because he is literally my favorite character and I spent those two years drawing him and reading cringe fanfics to fill that void. Honestly, hire me as a writer lol. I already have hundreds of ways to fix most of these problems

[@justice8718]

Has anyone ever thought Striker suffers from Genophobia? The statue could represent what Striker wants to be and how his image literally crumbles down when he’s confronted with his weakness.

[@artistanthony1007]

Would be far better if he said something like "Kiss your Mistress' Axx"

[@easytokeepquiet]

you've summed up how i felt watching this episode exactly. this season is definitely fizzling out for me but i still really want to see this show succeed and do well. Season 1 showed how capable it is of having great story and character depth and it really felt like it was finding that sweet spot between humor and when to take itself seriously, but it seems to have lost it. I'm still going to keep watching, but I might just have to accept that the show might not be telling the kind of story I hoped it would.

[@easytokeepquiet]

I also get why there was a b plot in the episode, they didnt want blitzø to be the one to rescue stolas here, because he doesnt really think stolas can be in real danger. but they could of cut out the scenes with blitzø and loona in the hospital and just had him take her in at the beginning and exit with her at the end of the episode, without having to cut the intense moments with "shenanigans"

[@WingsOfDespair]

I also expected Striker's return to be more intense and, as said in the video, dangerous. But something felt off about him. Like it seems ooc for him to have that statue of himself. While I always felt he has an ego in his debut, he was more charismatic about it. Here, he reeks of insecurity, being petty to the band singing about him, and also the aforementioned statue and his mancave being more performative of a western vibe (even Stolas points out that the train tracks are cliche) whereas in his debut he just *was* a western vibe authentically.

[@davidc.]

He definitely felt different. The dick statue and how defensive he was definitely felt out of character. He's always been a narcissist without a doubt, he has wrote a song about how he is better then everyone and even said he was superior to most imps. But how they handled it took away all tension he used to have and compared to how serious they took him last season, he felt far to silly.

[@lexx1745]

I was kinda surprised he was annoyed by the imps singing about him when he literally did the same thing in his debut episode about how awesome he is. Also that statue felt like a leftover Chaz joke and I wasn’t a fan.

[@philw3039]

@@davidc. I feel like Helluva boss in-general is running this joke into the ground. I didn't think it worked for Crimson either, being a powerful respected mob boss, yet willing to cover his home with dildos. At least in that situation it did show how Crim stereotyped Mox's sexuality. Here it just felt arbitrary.

[@salembuns]

The problem with the b plot for me was that you could tell that Blitz seemed to actually get scared for Stolas when Striker took the phone and he even got angry, but that worry wasn't present at all later on UNTIL he saw Stolas get to the hospital which and was somehow surprised that he can get hurt despite the obvious worry in the car, like it was pretty inconsistent in my opinion. Sorry if it doesn't make sense lmao I tried hard to write it down in a coherent way 😭

[@valentinkambushev4968]

Stolas is definitely having a "Shadow the hedgehog" syndrome. For those of you who don't know, "Shadow the hedgehog" syndrome is an illness that affects powerful characters, who can prevent multiple plots and resolve many situations quickly, thanks to how powerful they are. So the writers have to come up with all sorts of excuses as to why the OP character can't be OP.

[@IAMSONICTH3H3DG3H0G]

I dunno, it seems pretty fucking reasonable that angels would have counters to demonic overlords. Something thats been hinted at since Helluvas pilot.

[@tayloradams3993]

@@IAMSONICTH3H3DG3H0G plus it was bluntly stated in Striker's first ep that his weapons could kill ANY demon, which is why he was a threat then and is a threat now.

[@ookittythelittlecatoo8880]

Brah please😭💔 just the title made my brain shut every speck of Dopamine in it I hate this trope SO much it literally ruins EVERYTHING and it’s always my favorite character , I’d call it lazy story telling but sadly this is WAAAAYY more common in media💀

[@Daeneiracorn]

you mean the angelic weapons that have been a thing since before helluva was even a thing to begin with?.

[@lucilucid]

It's not really an excuse, it is a genuinely thought out thing that makes sense lore wise. Stella is rich, it is not surprising that she would be able to get angelic weapons and tools that she could give to Striker.

[@MadHatterGrellAJ]

I think it would of been excellent if Blitz went with M&M to rescue Stolas, while Loona was with Via, so that we could also see Via's point of view on her dad's absence and probably finding out through news that he is in hospital.

[@ghostlyexe]

They wouldn’t have been able to do that unfortunately, Loona’s VA is out right now for some personal stuff, that’s why she hasn’t had any lines the last 2 episodes. It would’ve been nice to see Via’s reaction this episode, but I actually enjoyed the Loona & Blitzo side plot. Giving them some real mundane father/daughter bonding time, it was cute. Maybe we’ll get Via’s reaction next episode, a little hospital visit or maybe seeing him when he gets back 🥰

[@alliswonderlain2595]

​@@ghostlyexe I think they could have. Keep Loona as she is, but have Via talk to her to try to calm her down and eventually start delving into her own feelings on her life and dad and mom. Then at the end, have Loona asleep, curled up beside or on Via, trusting and calm.

[@pincksugar]

I really liked the twist of him getting hurt so far in. It shows the mindset that Blitz had. It took me by complete surprise when he got hurt and how it went from 0 to 100 so fast.

[@dundo2272]

I actually think that the roses flakes falling from the flower, are a reffernce to the "he loves, he loves me not" and it propably shows that Stolas starts to think that Blitz doesnt love him anymore

[@Keelothorin12]

I heard that the Second and Third petal are the same. So logically the first is "he loves me" the second (also being the third) "he loves me not" After stolas turns away and as it ends. One more falls "He loves me."

[@zambiekiller360]

Now Loona's voice actor has been on a Hiatus, explaining why She has been silent. It's a real shame because I think the concept of the B plot is really, really good. Just executed poorly for pretty fair reasons (IE: Erica being unavailable) Let me explain: The Reason Blitz goes with Loona could be further used to emphasis his lack of care for Stolas, but also a fantastic way to further develop his relationship with Loona. Keep in the fact she is petrified but have Blitz try and console her which at first she denies until she breaks and very briefly opens up to admit she's scared,maybe even have a vague reference to her past. Loona would have NEVER had someone console her in a situation like that ever, that should be a HUGE moment for their relationship. In amidst all of her angst and distancing, she needs her Dad to help get her through her fear. And for Blitz to actually have his daughter reciprocate his comforting, that would probably hit him hard in the feels. Idk, that's just my dream revision of that scene, less comedy the better to coincide with the A plot

[@vgmaster9]

This is why we need AI technology for voice over work.

[@nothingelsetodo4229]

Why is loonas voice actress is on hiatus?

[@zambiekiller360]

@@nothingelsetodo4229 I've heard that she is busy on other VO work which is a shame but her choice!

[@probablywhisper3277]

@@nothingelsetodo4229 her fiancé died of cancer, and she’s on hiatus for the grieving period

[@nothingelsetodo4229]

@@probablywhisper3277 oh shyt... condolences to her difficult situation 😞

[@shadowarchivist2382]

I feel that the episode could have introduced the 'Loona goes to the doctor' B-plot and left it at Blitzø pulling up to the clinic. We could then see the aftermath as Blitzø leaves only to get trampled as Stolas is rushed in. This would have helped retained the tension more while also opening up the option of having Blitzø reflect on what he was doing in a follow-up episode.

[@halomoon_]

This episode had different levels drama but it all started to connect at the very end when we saw Stolas entering the hospital and Blitzo realizing that Stolas may not seem so strong after all

[@a.t.9197]

The B plot would've been more rewarding and in place if Blitz was able to calm Loona down a bit and showed development between their relationship, or if he argued his way into rescheduling sooner, or maybe Loona sucked it up and said she'd go herself. I mean Moxxie saw the angelic gun so it's weird that Blitz didn't know that Stolas was in actual danger. I feel like the B plot could've been it's own short or bonus content. Besides that, I loved how Stolas was being "goofy" while kidnapped UNTIL Via is mentioned. I relate to Blitz a lot with how he is in relationships but personally, Stolas being in the hospital would've been what sent me over the line and actually realize that I needed to do more to show that I care. I hope we see this happen in the next episode.

[@antithoughtpolice7497]

I don't think Striker has that gun. He used rope and a knife... Did Moxie keep it?

[@a.t.9197]

@@antithoughtpolice7497 Stolas asks Striker why a "bullet wouldn't do" and Striker tells him Stella asked for the "special treatment", that's why he uses a more torturous method in the ropes and knife. I think Striker still has the gun, I'm not sure if the one he shot in the beginning was it or a different one.

[@antithoughtpolice7497]

@@a.t.9197 Just checking. Thanks

[@carmymb]

i get excited for every new episode that comes out because i just love the show so much! so i really liked this episode, i loved the transitions in the fight scene with the m&ms. i feel different about the tension that you mentioned, i was worried the moment striker arrived but that might be because i don’t love striker as much as you do lmao also during the parts when he was stabbing into stolas, i was on the verge of tears in algebra. i love stolas so much and seeing him being tortured made me so sad along with blitz’s “he can get hurt?” at the end bro😭 tears. literal tears. he has stolas on such a high pedestal and it’s so- like- it makes me want to scream if that makes any sense at all. also i never even thought to pause and read the texts until you mentioned them and i started crying because of the effort stolas is putting into their relationship even when it’s so so rocky and blitz isn’t communicating anything about how he feels. i’m so happy it was somewhat addressed in this episode and i cant wait for when they have a conversation/argument about ozzie’s or where their relationship stands.

[@CinnamonQuills]

I think that overall, what you're highlighting with this episode and also something that's sort of endemic to the show as a whole is that there's a reason that ongoing traditionally produced series usually have a whole team of writers with an overseeing showrunner, rather than just functionally one person with input by a couple of other equally inexperienced buddies - because it avoids a situation where just one person's preferences, favorites and weak spots are the only POV that the show has. I think that it's easy to forget at times with how gorgeous the show is and how it's so unlike anything that we've seen before and the fancy big-name voice actors that this is at heart still an amateur production, with an amateur production's flaws. The tonal whiplash is a *big* one, the lack of an inner life to side-characters that the writer doesn't find as interesting is another one. Undercutting the crumbs of emotion with smash cuts to dick jokes and shenanigans is just sort of the most disorienting part of Vivzie's style, sometimes it lands and it's a riot but sometimes it just undermines the narrative and stakes. And with this being almost entirely her deal without other surrounding figures empowered to REALLY go, "Actually I don't love that, what if we..." to mitigate the person in charge's worst instincts you run into the risk of getting into an Unfettered George Lucas situation. I'm not gonna lie, though, I'm really looking forward to Hazbin Hotel and seeing what happens when you take Vivzie's wild creativity and style and put some oversight and supervising restraint on it with the accompanying additional resources of a more robust team. Limits aren't always bad, having to share one's "vision" with a team that has a more equal voice isn't always bad. Vivzie is wildly talented with a really unique voice and style, but she also has blind spots and a lack of experience that functionally being an amateur one-woman show surrounded by other amateurs really make obvious.

[@Corrector1]

Nicely explained.

[@philw3039]

Agree. Well said!

[@emcaco]

That is a really good point! There are tactics in this episode that they have used before, but just don't quite land with it being a "game changer" for character dynamics.

[@ChesireWaltz]

Huh you made me look at this in a new light. I hadn't considered the consequences of having one voice, no matter how good the voice can be. I see this in self published books and fanfiction too, as well as my own writing.

[@redactedoktor]

Also in a traditionally produced series, we could’ve had two ten minute episodes for the A and B plot solely, with inklings of interconnectivity. Helluve Boss’ schedule is probably its most damning attribute, because I think if they had the resources to produce an episode monthly with small hiatuses they could split these things up, and have smoother transitions in tone over a longer series. This show would so, so so so, benefit from being able to output episodes quicker, and shorter, because they’d have a better sense of time. It’s been 3 years since the show started, and we have like what? 15 episodes? Maybe less? That odd timing just screws up narrative and writing and makes the whole series hard to watch back to back. A problem that wouldn’t be around it they made episodes more quickly and consistently, which is just something they can’t do, and are powerless to actualize. What you brought up is an issue in execution that could’ve technically been avoided, but what I’m bringing up is more of a sad reality we can do nothing about at the moment. I mean, the other option is a slow and stagnant story, that makes sense when watched back to back, but takes forever in terms of time to get anywhere. This is probably the least offending timeline for Helluva Boss to be in, and contributes to identity, but these problems are just things that can’t quite be reconciled at the moment.

[@erika3405]

for the hospital scenes, what would’ve made the ep more tense is if blitz hurried the whole thing along, became tense and serious and was on edge. it would’ve made it much more intense and made it seem like stolas really was in danger. yes, he did tell millie and moxxie to get there quick and yes, blitz was speeding and yes, he did basically shove him and loona out the van so that they could save stolas faster but he could’ve showed that same urgency afterwards. also i completely agree with u on the “striker not being scary enough part.” like i expected this ep to be like imp couldn’t defeat him so blitz would have to beg to save stolas’ life like some serious grovelling, but it’s ok. the ep was all around enjoyable and we did get some very important insight on their relationship

[@hourglass1988]

My wife and I were hard core supporters before the series released and through all of season one. We bought a fair amount merchandise we didn't even really want just to help bank roll the project. The 2nd season wasn't really hitting for us and it took awhile to figure out why then it hit us. It was a funny show with serious bits originally. Now its trying to be a melodrama with some gags thrown in. The tone change from the pilot and most of season one compared to the last episode of season 1 along with all of season 2 makes it feel like a completely different show. This most recent episode was the best one of the season imo. (yes the hospital bit was pretty weak)

[@RaspBerryPies]

To be fair that’s a super common trend with animated shows this day and age. Gone is the era of cartoons you can just sit down and watch an episode out of order and it’s fine. Not saying I don’t like shows that are dramatic but a lot of animated shows always start out with some hint of lore with fun characters and jokes then get way deeper later. Steven Universe, Gravity Falls, The Owl House, Amphibia, etc. some were more hinted at and set up to be serious at the beginning than others but still you can see the first few episodes or season was not nearly as serious as the later ones. I love those shows but I also love shows that you can just sit and watch and it’s just for laughs. Wander Over Yonder comes to mind. Still even with that show they tried to do the deeper storyline near the end but it wasn’t as big or intense as other shows.

[@jessosiyoway]

13:35 There it is. That is, I think, the whole point of the tone. Like Blitzø, the audience has also become very accustomed to Stolas feigning the danger as part of a game to initiate interaction - apparently, when texting won't work! - and that was part of the bit. And they both knew it was a bit. The audience knew it was a bit. We were meant to be as rattled by Blitzø's realization it wasn't cartoon shenanigans as he was, which primed the audience for what immediately came next. ...having our souls ripped out of our chests as the context for how messed up each of their heads and hearts are about their relationship and the perspective they both have, creating this actually well done, believable miscommunication trope combined with... having to be adults. Deal with their lives. The escapism isn't enough for Stolas anymore, the humor won't erase the inner turmoil Blitzø is really dealing with (see the hallucination musical!). If something doesn't happen soon, not only will they break but the consequences of their life choices and their lack of good, honest communication is going to break not just their relationship - but their life's security.

[@gigachad3925]

Yes exactly! Very well said!

[@rollforapples6625]

I think that the b plot is what made this episode work. It echoes how Blitz didn't take the return of Striker as serious as Moxxie did. The most heartbreaking line in the episode is Blitz saying "He can get hurt?" wouldn't have the same impact if he had taken this as a threat. For Blitz the phone call at the beginning was said with the same sort of tone as a conversation in the episode of Lululand. Stolas knew that there was some restrictions on himself with the rope on him, but given that he tried to use his eye blast, and could use his arms and legs, I don't think he knew the extent of the danger he was in. Meanwhile you have Blitz frustrated that he's dealing with this shot situation, but we know that he's a devouted father to Loona so it doesn't feel unnatural for him to choose her when something was presented as a low level threat to him. At the end of it Blitz is battered and bloodied from trying to wrangle Loona. His at times selfish tendencies would have him in the mindset of having undergone the more physically demanding thing of the day. Then because the universe likes to crap on Blitz he gets trampled by a rush of people and just sees a glimpse of tail feathers rushing past. No idea how bad things are, is confused, and the M&M's, who he trusts enough to want to be a part of their life, tell him that what he thought was impossible has just happened. Stolas is hurt. Not in the "I can wrap a bandage around his arm and in a month he's dressed like an envelope" way. In the needing to be rushed into a hospital on a stretcher way. By someone that had already tried kill himself, and Moxxie, and Stolas. Blitz wouldn't have known that Striker had more holy weapons. Millie and Moxie looked ok, but Stolas was hurt? The b plot is needed to have the emotional punch for Blitz. The slow build up for how much of a threat Striker is was needed for it to have an impact on the characters, not the audience.

[@maddy8328]

Agreed

[@buchelaruzit]

i think in theory the content/idea itself is great! but the problem is that it was poorly handled, which made it just not work

[@3starsburningbright]

I think that’s a good point, and i definitely agree that that was a very important scene, but they absolutely could have handled the B plot better. Throughout the entire episode and especially the fight scene it felt like they were just juggling back and forth between the two plots and it led to the serious parts of the episode not hitting as hard as they should. Once the B plot was over and we were left with the angst at the END of the episode thats when the severity of the situation actually sunk in for me. Which, sure, that might have been what they were going for so that you realize how bad things really got at the same time blitzo does, but idk. Strikers return aswell as the scenes we saw in the 2022 teaser were so hyped up and anticipated and the comedy they went with for this episode made it fall really flat for me.

[@ogrebarberian7187]

i have to say, this has been my favorite episode thus far honestly. it shows so much depth to the characters thus far in the season. this season is building on the relationships between the characters, and i am loving and cant wait to see more from blitzo/stolist. stolist has become my favorite character.

[@Rosegirl132]

I think the lack of stakes at the beginning is important, bc Stolas is supposed to be immortal and we’re not supposed to believe he can get hurt, and neither does stolas or the other characters we keep waiting on m&m’s (them getting there should’ve been a b plot which I agree with not the c plot but blitzo needs a reason to be there) leads up to Blitzo’s shock at the end. Also I think the b plot is supposed to be world building (there was probably a slightly different script but Loona’s voice actor was unable to be there due to her grieving a loss.) and provides a reason for Blitzo to think everything is fine and be at the hospital and a reason was needed for him to not come and feel guilty for not saving him.

[@shadowball5295]

Hey so quick question for everyone am i the only one disappointed that octavia didn't come and see stolas?

[@JasonGianfranchi]

Probably he was the first one to not want her there to see him like that. She already suffer from the family situation she is in, I think he doesn't want to make things worse for her. Or simply he doesn't want to be seen weak and injured at the moment.

[@airachica]

I don't think we can assume she didn't come to see him just because we don't see it happening right in front of our eyes. It probably happened off-screen, I doubt Via wouldn't visit Stolas at the hospital, it just wasn't an important detail to show right now.

[@ravwoofles3858]

She'll definitely visit afterwards unless there's a complication, she just wasn't shown to highlight how lonely the life Stolas is. Sure his daughter is going to provide a level of comfort but it's not going to fill his needs for a romantic partner, and now that he's decided to go against the other royals he's more alone than ever even if their company wasn't exactly pleasant.

[@SS-ui7by]

I think the reason we don't get too many Via scenes is either because they have a LOT planned for the later half of the season or because Barret Wilbert Weed, her VA is rather elusive. I also think that Andrealphus is probably gonna manipulate Via into not visiting stolas or would try to sour their relationship, not letting her visit him - when they take her in while stolas is in the hospital - so that she can learn the truth about her mother,

[@PetitTasdeBoue]

Because it would not be dramatic enough, simple

[@drunkenlemon1624]

Really wish Hellova Boss would lay off of "Hahah, sex funny" jokes as much.

[@kysell]

seriously

[@Baby0rang369]

I really hope they fix the writing issues, I love this series, it keeps me happy and I don’t want it ruined 😔

[@aerysuniverses9838]

Honestly, I LOVED the episode in it's entirety, and having the Blitz and Loona moments littered throughout just made sense given the ending. Those moments are showing how he ISN'T afraid, isn't forcing feelings aside for the sake of comforting Loona, how he DOESN'T THINK ANYTHING TRULY BAD IS HAPPENING. Blitz truly thinks that Stolas will be OK, until the end when he see's his tail feathers and M&M tell him he's not doing good. It's supposed to be a tonal juxtaposition because to Blitz, it's just another day.

[@ravwoofles3858]

That's not an excuse, you can get the same result with ending the cut aways when things get clearly more serious and only go back for a little once the action has died down. You get the same result without the whiplash.

[@aerysuniverses9838]

@RAV Woofles I disagree, but I think that's because I LOVE tonal whiplash. I was smiling from ear to ear throughout the entire episode. But I can completely understand why people like you and Chorus don't like it. Tbh I think I'd like the episode just as much if we had more of the search for Stolas and the absolutely BADASS fight

[@ravwoofles3858]

@@aerysuniverses9838 I don't have a problem with tonal whiplash, unlike Chorus I usually actually enjoy it when it happens in anime and in other Helluva Boss episodes, but this episode reeks of the whiplash being more a product of a lack of decisiveness rather than intentional. I can practically see all the signs labeled "We don't know where we're going to go with this in the future so we're going to stay in the middle ground!" Heck if they really wanted to max out the whiplash on purpose I would've made two separate episodes that start and end in pretty much the same way but one's a dark narrative and the other is a slice of life story that, as enjoyable as it is, what's happening in the other side of it is constantly in the back of your mind. Honestly that's what I was expecting.

[@MrXemnas1992]

you get it.

[@moaPro]

@EchoAccord🤓

[@animatordean]

Honestly, I loved the episode, my only problem with it is that it felt too short

[@M.O.Valent]

I feel like every episode but the one over the ring of lust feels too short

[@the-annoyinator]

I'm guessing Vivziepop could upload 10 minutes of paint drying and you'd say something similar

[@animatordean]

@@the-annoyinator bro, im just saying I love it so much that it feels short, one of those "time flies when you're having fun" situations. I can't get enough of these charecters 🥰

[@the-annoyinator]

@@animatordean Can you name 3 personality traits of Millie that don't involve Moxxie and fighting?

[@animatordean]

@@the-annoyinator •Silly •independent •feisty

[@bricktaco67]

I honestly love this episode. I loved how they wheren’t taking the kidnapping seriously in the beginning, as they have experienced it many times before, and it’s become sort of a day to day activity. But the minute shit gets real, it gets real. And I honestly loved the b plot. I feel like it shows that Blitz hasn’t realised that Stolas can actually get hurt yet, with him letting the m&ms handle it, and the transitions between the two fight scenes where incredible imo. I love when a movie or show can switch tones quickly, but that’s just my oppinion.

[@ghostlyexe]

Agreed!

[@mikbubble8049]

I wonder if the lack of initial tension was on purpose. Stolas didn't realize he was in real danger right away, and probably thought Blitz would save him quickly. While the doctors office scene is definitely a drama killer, I think it shows just how unworried Blitz was. Compared to how he acted when Stella was missing, jumping imediately into action and having Luna come along to help (something that he usually doesn't do), this time he was more focused on day-to-day life because he thought Stolas was just an overpowered boy crying wolf. This is made abundantly clear at the end when Blitz is shocked that Stolas can be hurt. What was more infuriating to me was that the episode didn't seem to have gone anywhere by the end. Yeah, we get lore drops and learn more about motives and whatnot, but the plot doesn't move forward. If anything, the text messages make it feel like the ship is going backwards, and I didn't see significant character development except maybe from Moxie. If I could change anything about the episode, I think I would have given it more closure or at least plot forwarding by the end. I would have loved to see Blitz respond that he was coming up to visit, or at least acknowledge that the two needed to talk.

[@schube9891]

See, this constant back and forth chaos is exactly what I love about this show. It’s great honestly

[@NintendoMeister2260]

Writer: So we have a dark plot about a prince being tortured and a toxic relationship. What else should we add? Viziepop: Rabies shot sub plot.

[@falconeshield]

Classic

[@jammygamer8961]

Vivziepop again: the main plot is too serious so goof it up a bit

[@NintendoMeister2260]

@@jammygamer8961 Show gets a stroke trying to bounce humor and tension. The only time it worked in Western Energy was when Stella called off Stolas' assasination right before he did it and the genuine disappointment on his face.

[@jammygamer8961]

@@NintendoMeister2260 I agree but I think Stella calling it off just in time was just the cherry on top of the bad mix of humour and tension. That whole Loona at the vet b plot didn't help either

[@kingjb554]

This episode had a lot of positives. Andrealphus was amazing, Moxxie taking care of those guys at the gas station was so awesome, cementing that he doesnt need Mills to save him all the time. The last fight was gloriously animated and choreographed and Ed did a very nice job as Striker. That being said this ep did feel a little all over the place. All of the hospital stuff was unnecessary and felt out of place, and the fact that Loona disnt speak a word made it even stranger. But that can be forgiven because Erica lost her partner and needs time to grieve. Striker's new voice, while good, was jarring. And the ballad of Striker was also good but still felt unnecessary, and brings home the fact that not every epsiode requires a musical number. But I can forgive all of those things because I wholeheartedly believe this episode will be very important for the Stolitz dynamic. "He can get hurt?" Speaks hella volumes. Stolas was put on this pedastal in Blitzø's eyes, he was untouchable demon royalty who can get himself out of any situation. Truth Seekers especially showed this in full, giving us and the characters a taste of how powerful Stolas is. But he almost died, and I think Blitzø will begin to be protective of him, and care for him more attentively

[@swimmingmide]

I saw the whole thing as Blitz taking two steps forward and one step back with his main relationships. He draws a hard line prioritizing Loona's health care needs over work/Stolas' at the time of the "dangerous" kiddnapping. Loona is probably his healthies relationship and the one that is showing the most growth with both of them growing closer in a nontransactual manner. He shows a greater trust in Millie and Moxie leaving them to take care of the job. Then the bad part happens when he realizes that Stolas actually needed him and he just assumed that it was like the last time at the carnival, and passed the work off to underlings sure they will "save" Stolas. The giant syringe gag stuff was there to show that Blitz didn't really think even a bad butt imp like Striker could actually hurt Stolas, and when that is the case he has a revelation that strikes him to his core.

[@potatojuice0617]

honestly I've always wondered why stolas can't just pull some strings to help loona to get her appointment, so she and blitz can miss this one and save stolas first

[@aliceeverheart9237]

Exactly what I was thinking. Literally Stolas could've rescheduled it for them and it wouldn't take 5 years. Ah 😢

[@potatojuice0617]

@@aliceeverheart9237 I mean it's the same as seeing stars, why can't they just portal out of the sitcom 🫠 I get that the appointment was meant to prevent blitz from going, but the sitcom thing was just completely random lol

[@ThroughtheSkyIFly]

While being tied on the horseback, really? XD

[@danna-lm3qw]

I mean, I got the impression that this was what Stolas was going to say at the end of the call; when blitzø finishes explaining himself and stolas says "I agree that it's something important, BUT I..." and striker interrupts him, maybe he was trying to say something like "but I can get you another doctor's appointment" or something similar.

[@xxfalconarasxx5659]

I figure someone of his status could have helped Blitz reschedule the appointment. I mean I doubt the hospital would have defied him. However, as another pointed out, it could be that he was going to offer him that, but didn't have the chance to, as Striker did snatch his phone.

[@Null82085]

There’s a reason that Loona never says a word, Erika’s (her VA) fiancé (Billy Kametz) died to cancer so it would make sense that she isn’t in anything right now

[@maartenvanbuylen]

HOLY SHIT ERIKA WAS MARRIED TO BILLY KAMETZ???😢😢😢

[@frog3630]

i genuinely had no idea she was engaged to billy kametz this entire time, i feel so bad for her

[@fmor2779]

The show has a huge problem with consistency, it seems that they have nobody on the team that has all the stuff that has happened on record to avoid discrepancies in behavior. The show seems to have changed in direction and feels...well like fanfiction of itself now. Some stuff that I saw: 1. Blitzo casually forgetting that Striker had an angelic weapon makes his "sudden realization" empty. Does the angelic rope didn't send a clear message of that? In "Harvest Moon Festival" was stated that angelic weapons exist and CAN kill demon royalty, Blitzo recognized this when Striker tried to off Stolas. He says so himself, how is he realizing that now? In the latest episode? 2. How did only with the word sexy did Moxie concluded Stolas was talking about Striker? Wouldnt the rattlesnake sound of is tail which was distinctive in the past episode he was be a better way? 3. Taking 2nd in count, Moxie has never shown attraction to Striker, only rivalry, it feels like a "Bi people find everyone attractive" trope, Even that part when he says "harder" as he is being chocked by striker made my eyes roll rather than being funny as what it seems to be intended. 4. the whole conversation with Blitzo and the Lady was unnecessary badly written filler. 5. If the nurse didn't knew how to read or spell, as she says, how did she found Blitzo's name?! 6. How did the bikers knew Moxie was "queer" as they mention? The hat? And the leader gets mad because they have the...same hat? WHAT!? So he admits his hat its queer? Wha... 7. Striker's character goes from scary and, cold blooded and intimidating to... a more nerfed version of himself, just like the voice actor it seems like I am looking at a different character.

[@SlamDunkPyro]

Plus idk if it’s just me or the whole “he can get hurt?” Surprised pikachu thing also doesn’t work because wasn’t he the guy who tried to assassinate stolas before too

[@fmor2779]

@@SlamDunkPyro That is not a mistake, Blitzo says it himself: "I am not a fan of someone I offered a job to about to off my easiest lanky ticket to earth behind my back". (S1E5) This dialogue implies he KNEW Striker was able to kill Stolas, not only harm him. That is why it feels incoherent that he is making that realization NOW. So he should know the real danger Stolas is in. This is not like the little imps in "Loo Loo Land", he knew Striker was on another level in terms of strength and equipment. So...why now is he realizing that?

[@Ninjaananas]

Recognizing Striker just by saying "sexy" is a joke. I guess it flew right over your head. Also, he was also described as a cowboy or something similar a few seconds before. Blitzo only know realizing that Stolas can get hurt was more not just learning about basic laws of hell. He recognized that he ignored Stolas' problems all the time, taking it for granted that Stolas would be fine no matter what.

[@iwasneverhere2303]

I don't think Moxxie ever found Striker attractive, he just KNOWS he's attractive. There's a difference. Most of Moxxie's sexual remarks was just to mess with him, I don't even understand how some people can come to the conclusion that he was into Striker.

[@Nameless_mixes]

I honestly don’t mind the tonal shifts. I always see this show as a comedy first. Things like action, romance, tension, etc. are there (and they’re usually done really well). But I expect the funny stuff (like a B-plot about a hell hound getting her shots) to have equal focus to a fight scene (if not more). I feel like those really dark tones of suspense and unknowingness are saved for the finale. Also, I never even saw Stolas being in danger. It was interesting seeing him actually being helpless to save himself. But I never thought “There’s a chance that he won’t survive the episode”. Since I had that gut feeling there’d be some way of him being spared, I was never as invested in the tension as others would have been. So yeah, I personally have been loving this series from the first episode of season one to this recent episode. I feel bad that not everyone’s enjoying it as thoroughly as I am. Maybe I’m just not taking things as seriously? Maybe it’s something else. A big part of enjoying media (from my experience) is understanding its goal. Look at Teen Titans Vs TTG. A LOT of people see Go as a horrible series. But it’s not trying to be like the 2003 series. It’s just trying to be funny and for a younger audience. Once you look at it from that perspective, you can appreciate it for what it is and not what you want it to be. Just a thought 😊

[@Floweramon]

Little surprised you didn't bring up the mild incestuous vibes Stella and Andrealphus had because it certainly a choice to have him describe Stella as "vixen" "minx" and "attractive" (not even pretty, he specifically said attractive) which are not the usual things you expect a brother to call their sister XD

[@ellag3265]

I think maybe he's just kind of sexist? But I agree a LITTLE WEIRD

[@JamesDavy2009]

@@ellag3265 Remember they're royalty-royal families throughout history committed incest if there was no other way to keep commoner blood from mixing with theirs.

[@hsojuu]

With all respect, I really don’t understand this take. I’ve seen ppl talk about this but I don’t get any vibe like this from them at all. To me it just seems like the brother is a bit fruity if you know what I mean, so he speaks to her more like to a bestie/sister. And telling her she’s attractive isn’t weird at all to me. I don’t see anything weird in complementing family members + it was literally actually an insult to her. He called her stupid in a nice way.

[@Floweramon]

@@hsojuu Like I said, it's the choice in words. I know the phrase "you're lucky you're pretty/cute/ect." is an insult to belittle someone's intelligence. It's using the specific word "attractive" coupled with the other words "minx" and "vixen". It's fine if you didn't get that vibe, but his words did not seem familial to me.

[@hsojuu]

@@Floweramon Sure! Agree to disagree. Although I gotta say, I actually think that the words like “cute” or “pretty” are a lot more “flirty” than the word attractive. But I guess that just really depends on the viewer.