does the Percy Jackson show have too much exposition? (episode 6 reaction!)

♪ CAN'T READ MY CAN'T READ MY NO HE CAN'T READ MY POKER FACE ♪
I'm just kidding, 'normalize bad movie erasure' had me dead
time to get chaotic at the casino! I was really looking forward to this episode and I personally thought they killed it. I especially loved Hermes' appearance here, lots of people were doubtful about LMM's casting but he ate it up 🫡
But I'm also here to discuss something I've seen a lot on tiktok which is commentary about the pacing and exposition on this show. I see where everyone is coming from but I wanted to take a second to share my opinion about it! Let me know your thoughts in the comments, as always let's discuss!
Timestamps
Episode Reaction: 00:00
Discussion of Pacing: 7:45
subscribe if you like unhinged fandom content
Instagram ➭ / magicbymikaila
TikTok ➭ / magicbymikaila
💌 Business Inquiries ➭ [e-mail]

[@magicbymikaila]

thanks to those who pointed out that they did NOT in fact get lotus flower drugged by food in the book, the movie got into my brain and I was misremembering! (I am not immune to the power of poker face 😂) so pumping it in the air was actually more book accurate than showing them eating something!

[@Arawn505]

If I remember correctly, in the book they are bewitched by Thom Yorke's dancing in the Lotus Flower music video 🎩

[@krankarvolund7771]

For me, the Lotus "flower" they ate was the credit card they were given, it's a lotus shaped object that lures them in and attract them to this place, and when they're leaving, the staff tries to give them an even better version of it ^^

[@GoldyRose-qh7bb]

💙🩵Hey you should listen to the songs from the Percy Jackson musical💙🩵

[@WallyHandford]

We need a last episode reviewwww

[@alabaikot4255]

Quick question have u read the sequel series

[@jordannnk]

The level of delusion I had while looking for Nico and Bianca in this episode was at an ALL TIME PEAK 🗣️

[@PerovNigma]

I saw someone on Blind Wave's reaction say they spotted a kid in purple clothes. Is that them?

[@jordannnk]

@@PerovNigmaprobably not. At 12:30 you can hear someone (Nico) say “Bianca Bianca!” and a little after that there’s a girl on the VR set with a bow and arrow

[@magicbymikaila]

SAME I later want back and did like a frame by frame rewatch of the casino scene trying to spot the tiniest details to see if I could find anything hahaha 😭

[@PerovNigma]

@@jordannnk I saw the "Bianca!" getting referenced in that comments section, but I also saw mention of purple clothes and figured it was significant.

[@jordannnk]

@@magicbymikailaI felt like a psychotic fan girl but if the shoe fits… (also Percy crashing the car bc he was staring at annabeth 😭🤚)

[@RichardNikolas]

I think the only thing that I'm missing a bit is more danger or at least at sense of danger in general. And what I mean by that is maybe because of the kinda short length of the episodes, the obstacles/problems have to be solved pretty quickly and they have to move on from that. It doesn't make the show bad, not even close, I'm loving it, but I hope they improve on that for the next seasons

[@oliviajeane.]

Agreed!!

[@vanillapod1]

Completely agree - that or don't let them figure out what the danger is straight away at least

[@BlueSparxLPs]

Pacing is definitely my biggest issue with this show. It needs hour long episodes to give the story proper space to breathe and be fleshed out. It feels like we're moving at a mile a minute and few moments get the time they need to have full impact.

[@nileshgoel8076]

I definitely feel it's like the first season with no guarantee of second one, so they are probably feeling it out before getting into groove

[@srijeeta_24686]

Yeahhh it feels as if they know everything and cuts down straight to defeating the monsters......I wanted them to figure out the problems......and the rest is all perfecttttt!!!!

[@PerovNigma]

Things I loved about this episode: *1)* Percy and Annabeth casually going through which days the trio fought monsters. *2)* Grover deducing that Clarisse stole the Lightning Bolt. She's a solid red herring for those who don't know the story. *3)* Annabeth pointing out the Lotus Hotel just before Percy could spot it. *4)* Percy asking if it would be "unprofessional" to stay at the hotel. *5)* Grover asking if Percy is familiar with legend/history and re-telling the lotus flowers' story. Just like with the statues in Episode 3, it makes sense that these kids would be suspicious of anything to do with a lotus. *6)* "This place is lot bigger than it looked from the outside." Just imagine how many people are trapped inside there... Also I'm a Whovian, so that made me smile anyway. *7)* Percy reminding Annabeth and Grover that he doesn't know what Hermes looks like. *8)* Annabeth giving us more backstory for Luke and Hermes than the book did (maybe later books get into that same stuff, but I only re-read the first one before watching the show). For what happens with Luke at the end of the story to work well, we need to feel a connection with him, which is difficult when he's absent for so much of it. *9)* Grover's first conversation with Augustus. *10)* Grover worrying that he'll get in trouble for finding Pan because he didn't have a license to do so. *11)* The kids knowing the lotus legend made me worry that this version of the hotel would be worse than either the book's or the film's - that Riordan had made the kids _too_ competent, and prioritised that trait over the threat - but the building itself taking memories was an excellent twist. *12)* The conversation with Hermes. Again, I haven't read past the first book, so I don't know what Riordan did with Him down the line, but I don't think he even appeared in the book (I think in the film, Percy tells Him that he's sorry for what Luke did, and He looks a bit sad). The idea of Him being less bound to a traditional passing of time, making him suited for delivery, is also quite interesting to me. *13)* "It is hard for a god to feel powerless." A+, no notes. Brilliant line. *14)* Annabeth pick-pocketing a god, and the idea of Him having a car that takes you anywhere is a fun substitute for the book's brief taxi scene. Plus, watching Percy -learn- try to drive was a lot of fun. *15)* Percy trying to pass onto Poseidon what little intel he has about the bigger plan that "Hades" has in store. *17)* Percy being released from his quest but saying he'll finish it anyway. *18)* Four pearls means we shouldn't have a "leave Grover behind" situation like in the film.

[@magicbymikaila]

LOVE all of these moments!! 🤌🏼

[@hello-lz4xj]

@@magicbymikaila "sally Jackson, who is she?🙃"

[@cooperminion825]

But 4 pearls means that he doesn't have an excuse to not save his mom. Part of the prophecy was "You will fail to save what matters most in the end." How does he learn from this?

[@oliviajeane.]

I honestly hope they still include grover trying to sacrifice himself, it really shows his selflessness and just amplifies his impact on the story, even if it hurts my soul it really makes grover that much more important to the reader❤️

[@dariusporter358]

@@cooperminion825 I heard a theory that he will lose one of the pearls in the underworld. That would make Percy feel much more guilty for leaving Sally since it’s his fault he lost it.

[@bookswithike3256]

There was actually no food in the hotel in the book - it's in the original Odyssey, and the movie added it back in, but in the book, the Lotus Hotel itself was the lotus flower. So, basically, there was no change in that specific instance.

[@magicbymikaila]

Oh you’re so right! I was getting confused with the movie, thanks for pointing that out!

[@taylorsrep13]

Yes I noticed that too! And I wasn’t sure where it was originally from thanks for commenting on that!

[@MarioGarcia-qw8no]

Not sure but I think the books were also using the "they are pumping it into the air" reasoning just like the show, but it's not explicit. I actually reread the first book finally, and right before the trio go into the casino, Percy makes a blink and you'll miss it reference to the fact that the air conditioned air wafting out of the casino smelled something like flowers, lotus flowers he would guess. And right after that, Percy's convinced the doorman is completely normal and human.

[@leftwardglobe1643]

It wasn't the casino itself, it was the casino cards they handed out, but yes. It's a really weird change. Those cards also gave them a way out, and I think not including them was A: a bad idea, and B: there to justify Hermes presence, but not very convincingly. I like the scene with him, but he doesn't seem to have all that much reason to be there, and even less to not warn the party about what's going on sooner.

[@leftwardglobe1643]

@@PlumeLalouve They were having fun, but not organically. That's kind of the point of the lotus in the Odyssey aswell. It makes you addicted and complacent beyond all rational thought. The first thing they're given when they enter the hotel is a room key and the cards. The cards are, as evidenced by their infinite credit, magical in some way, all of the food and the games are bought through the cards and in order to entice them to stay longer, they try to give them platinum cards as opposed to their standard green cards. Everything centers around those items. It's what enables the casino to entice people to stay just a little longer. Like the lotus flower.

[@gayaast167]

To me the only small things I am not fully satisfied are how short the episodes are and excessive exposition (using most 'basic' way of standing around and talking). If it was more diverse, it wouldn't catch my eye so much (for ex. Walking while talking, doing a flashback, montage, anything but just having the camera go back and forth the characters). I think this particular episode had a missed opportunity to spend some proper screen time at the casino and SHOW the trio having fun, actually losing track of time, and having Percy figure out everything as opposed to being told. I also wish they kept the suspense of the place vs losing it completely the second they walked into it. The reason that didn't sit with me is that a) they are still 12y/o with not a lot of experience, b) the show already used this technique with Medusa AND the Hephaestus chair making it redundant. I think the episodes didn't give non-book readers the chance to understand the LOTUS casino's essence. This episode needed some ~ pizzazz ~ and more children trapped there vs adults. Overall, loving the series so far, and hope the creators are stalking the fans pages online to take in some feedback and improve for s2!!

[@magicbymikaila]

totally agree the exposition needs better directing too! I think there’s so many ways they could combine the exposition dialogue with action and staging that moves the story forward and keeps the pace going!

[@2Navalie]

I know but sadly their isnt anything the directors could've done, since disney gives most of the budget and how much screen-time in the series. The show is already good, but it could've been more established of some references and themes from the books if they had more time each episode, (or more episodes for instance)

[@nickwatic]

@@2Navalie the thing is the stuff that needs more oomph is not the expensive stuff (action scenes, CGI etc.) we just need more detailed exposition that isnt just a convo

[@2Navalie]

@@nickwatic Thats exactly what i was thinking, i guess its hard to put exposition into a series unless you have more space to breath and a way to show not tell.

[@kristaolsen6236]

Even with them knowing about the lotus flower, it would have been really fun to see the kids enticed by free and fun attractions. That's part of what makes this scene so fun in the books! I was kind of disappointed that only Grover was drawn in.

[@madison.12.]

I mentioned this in another video, but these episodes need to be longer. It just feels a little rushed and especially in this episode the casino scenes felt more rushed. Despite this, I think this was one of my favorite episodes because I really like the humor and group dynamic and all that stuff. Also, the fact that Percy said “Wise girl” and Annabeth continued the “Seaweed brain”’s and it just made me so happy!!!! 😭 I really loved this episode. Also love your videos Mikaila 💕

[@magicbymikaila]

I’m really REALLY hoping they’re going to make one hour episodes for season 2, I was so surprised at the end of this episode by how short it was 😭 they could do so much more with more time! (also thank you, so glad you like the videos!! 🥹)

[@mirandalovesfood]

If they can’t increase episode length, I hope they at least give us more episodes

[@Toeslurper584]

Real @@mirandalovesfood

[@humairahkazi2459]

I didn't really like this episode, somewhat bc of how much it deviates from the book, but more bc of how it deviates. Seeing as how you were happy at the seaweed brain and wise girl, I'm assuming you read the books. I don't think the changes they made in this episode really serve the story in a very good way. Some of the changes they made in earlier episodes were good and made sense for the story, ie when they crashed the train instead of blowing up the bus, and having them come across the chimera and echidna earlier, giving both these monsters more screen time than they got in the book. But I didn't like the changes in episode 6 that much. I don't think Hermes needed to be there. Also, I didn't like how they knew exactly what they were walking into with the lotus casino. In the book it was really cool to see his thought process, to see him noticing small details that don't add up, eventually coming to the realization that the place was hostile. I think it would have been awesome if we got some form of this in the show as well. Instead, we got what I've noticed is a pretty big problem in this show. Imo, it really struggles with "show, don't tell." How can a TV show be worse at this than a book. A book is the tell medium, while a show is the show medium. Ofc, you're entitled to your own opinion, and I'm not trying to criticize you or downplay your feelings or anything, I just wanted to share why I don't like it quite as much. Also, I am an avid book reader and have read these books 4 times. That might also skew my personal opinion to some extent, but I am trying to watch it objectively.

[@madison.12.]

@@humairahkazi2459 Yes I can definitely understand where you’re coming from. It’s almost like they feel that it’s necessary to put a god in ever single episode (when it really isn’t) and I don’t like some of the changes they made when it came to the casino scenes, as well. I just really liked the group dynamic in this episode :) I also agree with how they changed it from the books, the way they knew about the lotus flowers immediately. I just kind of feel like it’s ricks way of portraying them as more smart and knowledgeable but I get where you’re coming from.

[@saanvitalanki8915]

The way this show has me so engrossed that i forget to look for easter eggs until the episode's over is absurd

[@heyitsmira17]

No but Percy lowkey messing up the car bc he got distracted looking at Annabeth was just so- 😂 it's endearing and funny at the same time, I just love the dynamic. I never thought about the missing deadline making Percy choose to be a hero instead of just doing that for selfish reasons or bc he has no other choice! I thought it was just to make it clearer for the audiences how this war is not the actual issue, that what's lying underneath is wayyy more dangerous and important. But I like your train of thought better!

[@JabamiLain]

That is one good hearted boy. Sally did a good job.

[@TheYarnStop]

I just want to know why the world hasn’t ended though if the deadline has already passed. There’s no point in giving Percy a hero moment if he wouldn’t get the chance to because he’d probably get charred by a lightning bolt in retaliation for “stealing” the master bolt and not returning it on time.

[@heyitsmira17]

@@TheYarnStop the gods have had wars before. Has the world ended? Oh. Okay. Maybe, just maybe, we could wait for the last episode to answer this question.

[@TheYarnStop]

@@heyitsmira17 I don’t think they’ll acknowledge it as they haven’t brought it up again. And while the whole may not have totally ended, you’d think some of the fighting would have started already. Also, do you remember when Typhoon (that’s probably not his actual name, but I don’t remember it) was making his way to Olympus? Didn’t it devastate cities and kill hundreds of people? Don’t you think that when the gods fight, similar devastations would happen? Why haven’t they already?

[@heyitsmira17]

@@TheYarnStop the war started the moment Percy reached Santa Monica. From there they went straight to Crusty's and the Underworld, away from it all. We and they haven't had the time to look up how the world is doing bc they had to rush to the Underworld. And now the focus lies on the fight with Ares and getting Hades' helm back. After that Percy will have to fly alone back to New York (if we go through the same route as the books ofc), so we'll probably get these details showcased on some level. We really just gotta wait. BUT, if you really want those minor details, pay attention to Mrs. Dodds' newspaper back on ep 3, you'll see tension has been going already, the kids just didn't have time to pay attention to that since they're focused on the mission and not, you know, watching tv and stuff

[@V_4_Versace]

I agree about leaving out the 70s dude for Percy to figure out and a ticking clock would have been a nice touch! I don’t know if it went unnoticed but for the most part, they don’t reveal that people have been in the casino for decades. Which might make it harder to explain Nico and Bianca later on to nonbook readers, or could make a cool reveal for them. But yeah I wish they had gone a little more in depth about the implications of the time warp the casino causes because I know it made me lose my mind as a kid once we made the N&B connection book 3 lol

[@evillittlegoat8338]

They did hint at that with the extras, I spotted a lot of 1950s fashion. But I agree, I would've liked a bit more of that. I don't know if it's easy to pick up on if you're not looking for it.

[@racheycar]

I definitely agree it wasnt clear but i did appreciate the fashion in the casino as well as the cars in the parking garage being from very different time periods

[@laurarowland7294]

A possible Bianca can be seen at the VR station, shooting a (virtual) bow! Around the same time as that shot, you can hear the 'Bianca!'.

[@laurarowland7294]

Also, there's no 'Percy dumping the bag Ares gave him, only for it to mysteriously appear on him as they left the Lotus Hotel'. Like, that was a hint to the final reveal!

[@thisisnotalongname]

Honestly this episode was great but I got pretty disappointed that they didn't have any fun, but it was still ok. They also need to focus on being more lighthearted which was the whole appeal of the books which is why I loved them so much

[@vanillapod1]

I agree, there's a lot more fun and light hearted moments in the book that don't take away from the serious parts of the story

[@scoutwheat-hq8xe]

When Grover is off with that satyr (i can’t remember his name) we CAN hear nico calling out bianca’s name twice but he isn’t seen 😭 But i was watching and waiting looking for him 🤣

[@ryaneaston3487]

*Augustus

[@54MU]

You... You can't remember? 👀

[@scoutwheat-hq8xe]

@@54MUI’ve got a horrible memory 😅 and watched the episode when it came out just under a week ago so… i don’t wanna start anything, just clearing my name

[@54MU]

@@scoutwheat-hq8xe have you perhaps been to any place with a suspicious smell of lotus flowers? 👀

[@oreohunter7798]

I do agree that there's too much exposition, there can be a disconnect between writing the flow of a story and forming it into a visual medium. It's odd that they are rushing certain conversations and lore considering they potentially have 5 whole seasons to build this world.

[@JabamiLain]

Perhaps the author wants to take some creative liberties he did not take originally, but it requires some early exposition ? I'm personally rooting for a certain character not to die (cough Bianca cough).

[@mikemorro140]

@@JabamiLain Bianca kind of has to die cause it's what starts Nico's arc

[@calebray1834]

@@JabamiLainI mean Bianca will have to die, unfortunately for the sake of Nico’s arc.

[@baron_ambrose]

I feel like one problem with comparing Percy Jackson to Harry Potter is that the adaptations are in different mediums. The Lightning Thief is about 10k words longer than The Philosopher's Stone, but the show also gets 4 hours to work with instead of 2, meaning they should have more flexibility to balance exposition and pacing. Also I wonder if the trio figuring out the danger immediately is also affecting our feeling of the pacing - since there's no longer any tension (e.g Medusa, Echidna, Lotus Casino) it just feels like an exposition dump rather than an engaging story beat.

[@magicbymikaila]

These are great points! There’s definitely more room in a show than a movie to have a better balance, I think the His Dark Materials show was an adaptation that did a good job of having a balanced amount of exposition and pacing so it’s doable!

[@doldfamily9983]

​@@magicbymikaila I agree 👍 Also, could you do a video on His Dark Materials and Doctor Who sometime? :)

[@lucindaflynn2016]

I cannot get behind the "missing tension" argument. Medusa had me on the edge of my seat. I could hear my heart pound with Echidna's monologue and in the casino I was expecting EVERYTHING to be the trap that finally gets them - time, some game, the nacho chips? To me, just because they know something is dangerous does not take the tension away. Not saying there is no room for improvement (there always is), but I never got this specific complaint.

[@BroKenYaKnow]

@@lucindaflynn2016 "missing tension" comes from just how quickly everything is resolved. Medusa, echidna, and the casino are all established as threats the moment we met them (you didn't mention it, but the water park is the same way). They then are engaged with within the same episode and resolved just in time for us to spend the last few minutes figuring out where to next with a hint of exposition dump. We the audience don't have time to start putting any of the pieces together, there's no hints to look for as to when the trap will spring, and there's always exposition to be given by whatever it is we're meant to be worried about. I will say all the changes are incredible for the character relationships at least. They've done an incredible job substituting out percy's inner monologue where he told the reader everything they should feel about the situations he was in.

[@BroKenYaKnow]

@@lucindaflynn2016 "missing tension" comes from just how quickly everything is resolved. Medusa, echidna, and the casino are all established as threats the moment we met them (you didn't mention it, but the water park is the same way). They then are engaged with within the same episode and resolved just in time for us to spend the last few minutes figuring out where to next with a hint of exposition dump. We the audience don't have time to start putting any of the pieces together, there's no hints to look for as to when the trap will spring, and there's always exposition to be given by whatever it is we're meant to be worried about. I will say all the changes are incredible for the character relationships at least. They've done an incredible job substituting out percy's inner monologue where he told the reader everything they should feel about the situations he was in.

[@miaperry1834]

I agree that there's a lot of exposition, but I liked the different spin on the forgetfulness in the casino. I was not expecting the Solstice to have already passed, but I think it adds more suspense to the story. Now they're not just stopping the possibility of a war, they are stopping a war that is already in progress. Also, I don't usually watch videos like this, but I enjoy listening to your reactions and theories! And the unhinged scenes you make!

[@IntoTheFogProductions]

I appreciate how much credence you're giving the showrunners for what they're //actually// doing!! loved the changes, I think they're trying to really raise the stakes and set up how important... certain other things... really are. Can't wait for tomorrow! Bear posted the whole soundtrack and the music for the next two eps is just. I'm ready to see the visuals, y'know??

[@Vereenks3]

Didn't they lower the stakes by having the solstice pass? In the books, the world would have been destroyed by now...

[@IntoTheFogProductions]

@@Vereenks3 The Gods are setting up for a war, which ties in to when they definitely have a war. It'll make tensions in camp bubble over, especially with the whole framing of Clarisse as well. Takes a while for things to happen, even on a godly/titanic scale. I think the stakes are raised because it's harder to stop something that's already in motion than it is to prevent it in the first place. Plus it'll really nail in what Percy finds important - Sally. And the last two bits of the prophecy fall into place.

[@witchy.business]

The music is one of the most under appreciated aspects of the show I think! Especially the score at the end when Percy's talking to the nereid. Gives me chills

[@IntoTheFogProductions]

@@witchy.business yessss, what a great moment!! I'm soo excited for "Fields of Asphodel" which I think will be in tomorrow's episode. Been listening on repeat!

[@TheIndianDeity]

@@Vereenks3In the books, Zeus took a whole year to start fighting Typhon/Kronos. Hell the meeting in TTC decided the gods would rally their forces, but it took them years to actually start fighting The thing is, for us declaring war should start the fight in a couple hours, but these are Gods. Their concept of time is super warped, I wouldn’t be surprised if they don’t start fighting until Percy gets out of the underworld

[@saanvitalanki8915]

Levitating is objectively better but poker face is simply too iconic --- their faces as they ate the flowers and the music came up?! Come onnnn

[@The3gg]

This. Also the flower...pastries(?) Look so fun to eat. That scene is a gem in a stinky adaptation

[@peytondavis959]

yeah can't beat the poker face scene its too iconic lol

[@TheMoonRover]

Wait, people actually liked the poker face scene? I thought it was one of the most cringeworthy scenes I've ever seen.

[@jacksonatticus6939]

I didn't hear the "Bianca!" until someone pointed it out. Also I think she meant the the solstice is the day that the trio are on, which would be the final day that they could stop the war

[@JabamiLain]

I hope that as the show progresses, they get more confidence to make episodes longer. The Casino was WAY too underused. Although I am curious to know why Pan was there. I've got theories, but I still want to know.

[@ninakrishnamurthy6674]

I don't think he was actually there; I think Augustus was just confused. All though, in the books Pan IS in Nevada, so...

[@JabamiLain]

​@@ninakrishnamurthy6674 but Grover said he actually felt he was super close. Plus, lotus is a flower, and Pan was said to enjoy making particularly children stay trapped in nature with him due to his promiscuity. And finally, the best places to hide are the least expected. I think Pan was there. What we need to find out is if he was really kidnapped, or if he just took off on his own.

[@fizzyizzypop1300]

I think that Pan is gonna wind up being just under the casino or pretty dam close to it underground

[@ninakrishnamurthy6674]

@@JabamiLain In book 3, Grover, Percy, Thalia, Zoe, and Bianca all felt the presence of Pan even though (as revealed in book 4) his actual location was several hundred miles away. When you’re a god, “super close” is relative.

[@comfortcrossroads]

I'm loving the show so far, but I miss when shows were 23 ish episodes per season!

[@fizzyizzypop1300]

Honestly same, and personally I think they could’ve gotten away with 20-30 minute episodes that were each a chapter and have everything feel more natural

[@moonstone6164]

Maybe Disney will give them budget for longer episodes in future seasons if the show does well

[@ASCR]

@@moonstone6164 that would be amazing

[@user-do7zu2qj8l]

"the summer solstice has passed" *pauses episode* wait. *gets the lightning thief* *sits back down* the sacred texts! *calculates* aha!

[@Rinneyluvzu]

“Wise Girl” IT FINALLY HAPPENED

[@Adwnpinoy310]

I know I am in the minority but I like that they kept stumbling into traps and monsters. I don’t think they are any dumber for it. Aunty M’s garden emporium wasn’t on some magical trail (then yes, obviously something is up) it was on the side of the road IIRC. For this episode, I have no idea why the messenger God would spend his time at a casino.

[@vanillapod1]

Exactly, the danger isn't just the monsters, it's the mist and the magic enticing you in. They all seem to know what they're getting into the whole time and there's no suspense.

[@peytondavis959]

exactly! and they. are. twelve. so obviously they're not going to put two and two together immediately. Idk why they chose this direction to go, but Percy should be completely clueless in the first season because he literally just found out who he is like less than 2 weeks ago. It makes no sense why he would be so knowledgeable and know immediately even if his mom told him some stories. They should've at least kept him in character and just had Annabeth say everything.

[@Adwnpinoy310]

@@peytondavis959 yes there are missing chances to establish Annabeth.

[@irisonoccasion]

i LOVE the positivity your reaction videos have!! seeing the negative perspectives on social media (although valid) have made it difficult to interact with the fandom sometimes because i felt like i was the only one who didn't mind the changes so THANK YOU!! i love your content so much

[@calebray1834]

Right since it’s literally Rick making the changes and at the end of the day. It’s his story and he can change things if wants to.

[@irisonoccasion]

@@calebray1834 that's exciting what i'm saying!! i trust rick and it's his characters. he knows them better than any of us so i'm sure all the changes were done for a reason with careful consideration

[@Nily8233]

Yesss I 100% agree! I feel this episode is being quite overhated. 😭 Hopefully once the rest of the episodes are out, the changes people have been complaining about will make more sense.

[@dheemidheemi]

​@@calebray1834 And fans are allowed to dislike those changes. He shouldn't have promised what he couldn't deliver.

[@bxtxl7831]

SAMEEE!! though I have a lot of nehative things to say about the show (cuz they really need to imporove sm) I still love it. I still enjoyed watching it and I have rewatched it twice since. It made me really sad to see that noone appreciated the positive things about the show and made my mood drop. While I am disappointed with a few things, I still liked some scenes and thought that overall it was still good and enjoyable. Thats why I like watching her Videos because she also sees the good things I see in the show!!!

[@aceofspade2120]

Amazingly well done and excellent breakdown at the end. Here is the thing that I loved about how the showed the Lotus Casino. By design, all casinos want you to stay as long as possible. Every detail is built around that core idea. And the Lotus Casino doing what real casinos do and pumping "fresh air" into the casino that keeps people awake and aware and energized fits perfectly with the best type of trap. I can't think of a person that wouldn't get exhausted of what they had in the movies, constant partying 24/7. But having a place feel SO comfortable that you don't even realize that time is passing you by, that is definitely great modernized writing. They don't need to force you to eat anything, you are trapped from just being there. Also the whole things that Percy and Annabeth remembered more because they were together makes more sense now for Bianca and Nico remembering so much, they were never alone

[@lady_parrot]

I LOVE your perspective on the show. I am a HUGE Percy nerd, but I really struggle with the kind of analyzing that you do. I really appreciate it. I can enjoy the show even more with you!

[@beeojr]

I feel like by figuring out the trap of the casino early, it did kinda lose some of the shock factor when they realize just how long they were there, but also they fs would know the myths well enough to figure it out. they prolly could have kept the lotus in the air instead of the food and the element of surprise which might have made it better, idk

[@nics11]

I have been LOVING your takes on this show and how you re still critiquing while actively seeing the best in the show and make an effort to enjoy the changes rather than hate them just for being changes. I also love you point about exposition b./c while it can feel boring in visual format it is so important. Especially when you think bout HP and how confused non-book fans were with those movies. Though I do wish they did more interesting ways to explain things once in a while like flashbacks and such.

[@thecuckooviolinist7376]

I love the way you defined the moment. "I will take the ring to mordor!" That fits so well!

[@Edward-W]

I agree that it's good for Percy's character to give him a choice to give up on the quest and go back and he decides to go through with it anyway. It's a payoff (again with these mini-arcs!) from episode 3 where he suggested turning back because he wasn't confident he was the right one to do this quest. He doesn't care whether someone else could do it better anymore. It's his duty and he will see it through, darn it! But even taking that into account, I'm worried about how they are going to make it make sense that Zeus hasn't already started the war by the time Percy gets to Olympus. And how he will allow Percy to fly from LA to NYC if he's already started the war with his dad, presumably not caring whether Poseidon would get any more upset. I hope they make it work. The 4 pearls is just clearly a better choice that informs us of Poseidon's character. He should care for Sally enough to help her get out and I'm glad for the change. In regards to the pacing and exposition discussion. I'm glad you addressed it. To me it hasn't been a problem at all before this episode. The exposition always felt natural because it was always integrated in a way that felt like someome other than just us needed to hear it. Percy is new to all of this so he needs things being explained. A trio of Greek demigod kids on a quest would want to make note of everything that they recognize from the myths to make sure that everyone is on the same page and nobody gets trapped or killed. But this episode was not quite as well-balanced. We got Hermes explaining to Percy how the Lotus casino works off-screen (but I absolutely LOVED the parenting chat) and Percy repeating that to Annabeth. Would have been much nicer to see Percy figure it out hismelf like he did in the book. This also ties into the pacing being a bit off because even after learning it was already Thursday, thery seemed to not be in a rush to get Grover and leave the Casino. I would have liked to see Percy running to grab Annabeth and explaining it while they were running, then getting reminded of Grover by bumping into Augustus, finding Grover and dragging him out ASAP! Instead they stood around, chatted for a while, saw and chased Augustus, then meandered to Grover in the VR section, calmly explained the situation to him and then continued their leisurely walk to the car. 3 days had already passed by the time they ended the chat with Hermes but then somehow after they did all that it was the end of the same day? Or was the solstice on Friday? Maybe it can be explained by saying the time-warping doesn't work as effectively once they became aware of it but I was still bothered to see them not looking like they were in a hurry and bolting outside. Due to all that this was the weakest episode so far for me. Still not bad because otherwise the quality is top notch throughout, and those concerns I voiced only brought it down by a little, not by a lot.

[@hello-lz4xj]

OH OH I saw a video saying that in the background, you can hear a little boy calling out, "BIANCA"

[@saanvitalanki8915]

I knew lin would be here and he stull jumpscared me 😭

[@ryaneaston3487]

*still

[@aubryellaotero1064]

Oh PLEASE I CANT WAIT FOR YOUR BREAKDOWN OF THE LAST TWO EPISODES 😭😭

[@NationalParkJuniorRanger]

I know a lot of people really disliked this episode because it strayed too far from the original story for them. However I think the telling really told who the characters are and what they stand for. I am very excited for the next episode and can’t wait to see how they end it after knowing how the book ends it.

[@user-eu7ue3ry4q]

THANK YOU!!!!!! The exposition is necessary. We've gotten so used to shows/movies cutting it that, yes, this show does feel a little jarirng. But also, it is preventing us from recognizing that this really is a well done adaptation. (I love your reviews of these episodes SO MUCH)

[@beeojr]

omg that's literally my reaction whenever we get a "seaweed brain" or "wise girl"

[@Azulathedawg]

2:33 You can hear little Nico scream “Bianca, Bianca!” Exactly 12 minutes and 30 seconds in the episode… Thank you, Mikaila for another episode review! I always look forward to these while waiting for the next episodes… Also, the random “Alexander Hamilton,” are funny as hell😂😂

[@M_yesa]

Ohhhh i really like how you open up my perspective with your insights on the changes of the show, i always look forward to your reactions for each ep because you make me realize soo much

[@AWeirdo25]

I love watching your reactions! You point out small details and go in depth with them which is something I rarely see.

[@katz86]

I have super enjoyed your commentary and perspective on these episodes. you give me a reason to watch the episodes as soon as they come out, I want to be ready when your video comes out! have fun in Disney and see you when it works for you to make the next one!

[@sianasach4530]

I wanted to see Annabeth playing the architecture game!

[@renhale2840]

i really appreciate your positivity! I've really enjoyed the show and all the changes

[@saanvitalanki8915]

I cant get enough of you girl, lysm 😭

[@unik124]

been LOVING watching these with you!

[@wuotts22]

I really like your videos and reviews❤ it might seem like a lot of dialogue but i really like how theyre giving lukes backstory since this season, cause you can see the parallels of luke and percy's life

[@evillittlegoat8338]

I love your little monologue on adaptations at the end!

[@user-dy7tl6jm6b]

Levitating is so iconic. By the way, nico yells Bianca when grover first is talking to agustis in front of the vr area

[@zeusanderson4259]

Waiting patiently for Mikaila reaction to episodes 7 and 8.

[@giovanniaguilar695]

I think the Bianca shout is supposed to be while Grover is following Augustus. The channel MovieFlame made a short video about that along with potential candidates for those Itialian kids.

[@taylorsrep13]

I always look forward to ur reactions, it’s refreshing to see someone’s opinion about the show that has actually read the books. Lots of reactions I’ve watched are people who haven’t read the books and I’m glad people are watching the show who haven’t read the books but I like to see opinions of people who have and haven’t read the books or seen the movies for that matter. So thank you for taking the time and effort to make these reactions and share your opinions and I hope you have fun in Disneyworld!

[@DanielleBaum]

yay!!! it's your review!!

[@JamesSmith-bg6dk]

The lotus fruit being pumped into the air is also a clever twist on the myth that casinos in real life pump oxygen into the air to keep gamblers awake and spending money for as long as possible.

[@magicbymikaila]

omg haha I hadn’t heard of that myth, the pumping the lotus fruit into the air makes sense as a clever play on that!

[@soggyfan]

I love your opinions on these things! your pacing stuff was on point! my favorite part was when Percy was driving and got cut off and was not afraid to show his New Yorker and honk! 😂

[@sierragomes2906]

Taking into account the generational trauma theme they have going this season, and the surge of popularity Hades has had in the last decade (I'd confidently claim that he and Persephone are the most beloved Greek Gods by a long shot) I'm so curious to find out what the writers are going to do with him next episode, and what changes they might make.

[@yuukinoyuki9064]

I'm really hoping they give him the same treatment that they did Hephestus. Man was the only one of the Big Three to not break his Oath and unlike Posoideon or Zues he actively intervened to try and personally protect his kids. Like, dude wasn't perfect. Nico had to really argue with him at times. But he was like the most present father of all the gods. It would really underline just how wack it is that Hades doesn't have a cabin if we see him being a genuinly decent "guy."

[@calebray1834]

Maybe finally set the record straight he is not the evil one he’s constantly depicted as.

[@saanvitalanki8915]

A Highlight of my week 💙

[@magicbymikaila]

thanks so much for watching! 🥹🤍

[@snowhillary]

she uploaded this video one day earlier than she normally does!

[@why1389]

Watching your reactions has become one of my weekly highlights! So fun to hear your thoughts before moving on to the next episode

[@DoeiDenise]

I really love your take on the series ❤

[@user-xq7fv6sh9y]

😆😆 I’ve been waiting for your reaction

[@ArtaniaVIII]

I thought this episode was pretty great too. After last weeks I had to get my best friend into the show and we watched it together and he loved it. We're skipping the next episode to watch it and the finale back to back too so if you do that and a double episode video, that would be perfect! 😀

[@avijames57]

👹ALEXANDER HAMILTON👹 2:42 literally killed me

[@martaserra7125]

Personally, when reading, it can be difficult for me to really feel the emotional moments, especially suspense and sadness. That is why I love adaptations, because in movies, I really can cry like a baby, get jump scares, and really feel that dread of suspense. I kinda feel that a not so well executed pacing and exposition, can really make a series lack in the emotional moments, I just don't feel it as much: my laughs become giggles, my tears become a simple sigh, and the suspense is just not reaching me. Sometimes, I prefer when adaptations sacrifice or change a bit of story, but really go deep and develop the core emotional moments, both comedic, romantic, sad, and scary. That way, adaptations can be a complement of visual, hearing, and emotional sensations to the amazing story of the books.

[@logann-mackenziefroste563]

Awesome video ‼️💯💙🩵my vote is for leviating. Also when Grover and Augustus are talking in the background ther is an audio easter egg of a little cheering or calling Bianca also in the background behind Annabeth talking to Percy there are 2 kids in purple shirts run by which is an easter egg to camp Jupiter 😅😊 also thank you mentioning the goblet of fire and the pacing and exposition and cutting of specifics scenes but also the director for goblet of fire just didn’t understand the book and the story. Also I like how they explained Hermes as being a god of space and time because I didn’t know that so imho this was great thing. I totally agree with you on everything that you mentioned in this video 💯‼️💙🩵

[@GalaxyDWolf]

As always. Love hearing your thoughts on one of my biggest childhoods

[@trash_can6780]

this is one episode where i didnt like the changes. (though it was still great) in the book, they had no reason to think that the hotel was a trap. so there was no, “oh they’re being stupid for not realizing”, because there was nothing suspicious going on from what they could see. if i remember correctly, they had spare time (like 4-5 days) after going to vegas in the truck, so they decided to rest for a little and clean up at the hotel. they didnt plan on staying long, but then obviously were dragged in by the magic. then percy found the 70’s guy and realized it was a trap. the changes in this episode felt kinda weird and unnecessary. i guess it gave us hermes and his storyline.

[@noahpayne1551]

I really appreciate you taking the side step to discuss the split. It was refreshing to hear you break it down to what those separate viewers are looking for. It really changes the tone to acknowledging the differences instead of fighting. A more welcoming vibe to both sides.

[@HannaBraken]

I love to watch your reactions :)

[@TheSpicer64]

I love all your content, but i've been especially enjoying these reaction videos. Love your passion and emotion! Genuinely wish you were my best friend😂😂

[@HeyThere28]

Love the Hamilton references❤

[@EyeMCreative]

I agree with everything you said, 100%. Adaptations are tricky because you have to find that balance, as you were saying, and on top of that you have to try to please as many fans as possible by including all the iconic moments, while figuring out how to cut things out. You're never going to please everyone. That being said, I can agree that maybe they added too much extra dialogue about Lukes mother and stuff, but like you said before I think, we needed to be reminded about Luke, because it's been too long not talking about him and people might forget about him as a character since he only got 1 episode before this. So yeah they needed to add some more interest to Lukes story and maybe establish some of his backstory so we don't get a "Hans" moment later where it feels like it came out of nowhere, but they could've still said less about his mother and gotten that same effect.

[@krankarvolund7771]

My favourite joke in that episode is Percy asking if the release of the animals is safe. Grover: "Oh yeah, I gave them a Satyr's blessing" Percy: "For humans I meant." Grover: "Oh. Oh yeah, I'm sure they'll manage". They've really shown that Satyrs don't really give a shit about mortals because of what they're doing to the planet XD

[@emeraldknight22]

I loved this episode. I also adored the last scene with Percy and the Nereid because it was emotional and had incredible character growth. also the music with it gave me chills. I'm so excited for next episode, I feel like most of the CGI budget went to it and Im stoked

[@Shortandnerdyy]

Ever since i started watching your channel I started seeing you in my KZbin and Hulu ads 😂

[@calling.moon.twelve]

As a kid reading this chapter I was picturing basically a huge indoor amusement park type of thing with tons of fun games and bright colors, flashing lights. I wish we'd gotten to see them get sucked in a bit, when Percy was asking if it would be unprofessional to go play I thought Annabeth would be like "... Okay but just 10 minutes!" And then dun dun dun 10 minutes turns out a lot longer than they thought. It would have been nice to get to see them be kids for a moment. Plus reinforce Annabeth's love of architecture by having her get into that design/building simulator! And I wanted to see the dude from the 70s. I think the episode as it is is okay but I think sound design changes alone would improve it for me. Like have the audio start to get a bit muffled or "blurry" as they start to forget. I think that would have helped the suspense feeling. Overall kinda meh for me, but im hopeful for the final two episodes ive heard from people who got to see it early that the last two are amazing so fingers crossed!

[@florence_black]

I think the music is lacking in general. And that's insane given it's Bear

[@gimenamercado1358]

People complain a lot about exposition and the kids' awareness, but like, Annabeth and Grover have been part of the mythical world forever, I would say Annabeth spends a lot of time reading and studying greek myths, and Sally did that for Percy, so it's only natural that they realize those things. And I would be extremely paranoid and believing even a daisy is a monster if I was a demigos who KNOWS the moment they get foot outside of camp, they're gonna be chased by monsters, specially if you travel with a child of the Big Three. About the pacing, for me, it was worse on the first 2 episodes, and then it got better, but of course there are a lot of things that need improvement (Imma keep saying that Gabe's protrayal is bad). For me, the thing we need the most to get those imporvements, is more seasons, with more episodes, or better, longer episodes

[@Sam-fp2qh]

I have a theory about there being 4 pearls instead 3 is that Hades is going to take one of the pearls and keep one of them as collateral until Percy gets Hades is helm of darkness back, just like in episode 5 with Ares.

[@yvonnetrinh6075]

Been loving these react videos! I completely agree with you about the changes (also imagine if we got David Tennant info dumping for us, could’ve been so beautiful 🥲). This show clearly has passion behind it and it’s really noticeable! Would love to see you react to A:TLA show when it comes out! Love your videos and content! ❤😊

[@adymlv]

If I had to pick just one thing that stood out in this episode, it's Percys face after Hermes told him what Poseidon said. I just FELT that feeling when you're about to start crying, but decides that "no, I'm not going to". Its just a second, but wow, that hit me.

[@seandoherty7963]

“They pump it in the air” is also a subtle way to show Percy’s “street smarts”. It’s something he might’ve heard or seen in the mortal world, something Annabeth wouldn’t read in a book.

[@brooke3788]

Doesn’t Hermes outright tell him that tho?

[@anglfail]

EARLYY I LOVE YR VIDEOS SM

[@MacroHAX]

my favorite percy jackson reactor, I love all your take and I agree with all of them.

[@zacharysmith4856]

Thoughts: I am torn on my vote. First instinct was Gaga, but I do love Dua Lipa. I’ll swallow my pride and not hedge… Gaga. I think most of the exposition is done fairly well, and your point about young actors trying to deliver those lines is well made. I still hold that the first five minutes of the series is unnecessary exposition, though. I am ready to die on that hill. Three, this is going to be unpopular, but I didn’t like the driving scene. It felt like forced comedy to create more tension with the reveal that they’d failed the quest at the end, and the setup for it felt obvious. Still an enjoyable episode. Thanks again for taking the time to share your thoughts with us. 🙂

[@chaneyevans8878]

In the lightning thief the trio don't leave on the quest until almost the second half of the book. The first half is mostly exposition.

[@lucygarrett9785]

This wasn’t the best episode for me but it wasn’t bad My few complaints are the look of the lotus hotel on the inside, it just didn’t feel as grand as described in the book also there were lots of adults which would make me think people are aging but that is definitely not true My only other thing is them giving some of Luke’s backstory here, I think it’s better for that to be saved for the end. Over a good episode, can’t wait for next weeks I think it’s gonna be great

[@The_D0C70R]

I'm going to be honest (and people might hate me for this take): the Lotus Casino scene was done better in the movie. Of course, the mystery being ruined by Poseidon's telepathic message to Percy was bad, but the buildup and mystery not even existing in the first place is worse. They go in knowing it's dangerous and already on guard. In the movie they were eating the lotus cakes, which was a well thought out change from the book and made the scene more accurate to the original myth. The lotus infused air was also a change from the book... but it just wasn't good, unlike the change in the movie it was not an improvement and overall just unnecessary. The big loss here, the big thing I hoped the show would avoid losing, is the scene of Percy figuring out what's going on by himself. Instead, Hermes just tells Percy about the lotus essence, which is just as bad as the Poseidon telepathy when it comes to ruining the mystery/buildup. I also did not care for them missing the deadline and getting four pearls. This is a SIGNIFICANT plot change from the books, and I do not see ANY potential benefit coming from these changes. I hate to say it, but Rick approving these changes does not make them good. I'm aware that his influence on the show is most likely what's keeping the plot from straying too far off the path set by the books, but that doesn't mean the man never makes mistakes.

[@AzizGyan]

i Completely agree with you you're 100% right

[@stitchbyzoe]

thank u for all the hamilton references i needed that

[@chaossalad3243]

I think having more gods to interact with is also good because of the Oracle’s line of meeting the “god who has turned”. Book readers know who this is of course, but for others having more options to choose from can help add to the mystery.

[@gyrus.2211]

Idk why but I feel like nico and Bianca are literally in the first indoor shot in the casino on the driving arcade game and everyone just missed it cause they arent necessarily wearing what we’d expect like biancas hat.

[@AllthatmakesFall]

The driving scene was SO funny

[@rosedschinn2659]

i LOVE the hamilton references, keep going!!!

[@AhsokaGryffindor]

Around 12:30 if you listen you can hear a boy yelling ‘Bianca!’ Love your reactions :) Have a dam wonderful time in Disney world!

[@hi-yo1kq]

7:06 I think all the fans watching this had the same question 😂 FOUR PEARLS??!!! Although I agree it makes Poseidon seem like he does care a little about sally

[@sekaihatsu]

I could either hate it or accept it for what it is because books and TV and movies are different mediums of storytelling. Changes have to happen. I want to enjoy myself so I'm not going to complain about what's left out although I wish the episodes were longer.

[@3wheelyboy]

I majored in screen production (film) during university and I have to agree with everything you said here. In a tv show/movie you don't have time to watch people provide exposition it sometimes ruins the pacing. As you said the PJ movies had a bit better pacing because in The Lightning Thief the story was altered and in Sea of Monsters the entire plot was basically changed.

[@hello-lz4xj]

I'm glad someone's talking about the movies in Harry Potter. the characterization wasn't great, the relationships felt rushed and some of them had little to no chemistry, and many things didn't make sense or were left out. they were classics, but I wished they were done better

[@-LoneWolf-]

I think they could have longer episodes, or maybe just more episodes because I’m still waiting for them to explain Annabeth’s fear of spiders. That might be in a future episode, so I could be wrong, but that part of the book was one of my favorites. It really shows that Annabeth isn’t invincible and how much spiders scare her. Also, great video Mikaila!

[@churippu23]

What I love very much is how percy is visibly progressing with his thoughts and them giving key points as to why it happens, first he was like oh this godly family never cared for me why should i care to stop their sibling fight, and aside from his mom he had no one else really show care for him so he strongly going for saving sally at first is perfect, next stage was him going oh.... looks like they sometimes do care plus finding friends who do protect him, gonna take this quest a little more seriously now, at least for the friends, then, his nightmare happened and he was like ok this is bigger than a sibling fight and the gods don't even know what theyre getting into at this point I HAVE to do this, solstice past or not. Gods wanting me to, or not. Like the little hero knowing what's important better than gods themselves from the start but gradually getting into the mindset which is actually sally doing a really good job with him. Love it. A teen protagonist who knows his stuff but isn't "IM GONNA SAVE THE WORLD" from the start specially with the low self esteem he has with his condition is rare ... Ok continuing to your discussion now😂 Edit: Ok on your discussion, I totally agree. I think there is no way everyone is gonna be 100% satisfied with an adaptation even if they go 100% like the books. Plus this is the first season and they have room for improvement. And personally there is a point in making actions less frequent in the first season, I think even in the books percy still did not have enough experience fighting, aside from crazy instincts, getting insanely good action scenes that early on with full details is gonna make it weird, like this kid believed he's a disappointment and broken for so many years, how did he suddenly change into a full time fight king. No. Instead I love the fact that important action parts have weird cuts, like percy saving anabeth with water powers, we could barely see it but it happened. Myfavorite way to explain it is, This less detailed action gives a feeling of watching and experiencing the story through percy's adhd brain, he specifically explained in the books how it feels like there are missing puzzle pieces in his mind sometimes. We're exactly getting that, stuff happen but we go through weird cuts here n there, I know ppl are gonna feel like it's for budget saving but I still think choosing to make it this way in early parts of the story before percy fully grasps who he is and what he can do is perfectly experiencing this world along with percy. This was too long imma save the rest for future episodes. Great job, I like your reactions❤

[@katiehelmsway294]

I love your take on this episode! I have seen so many comments on how people don't like this one because it is completely different from the books, but I think you need to have an open mind when watching adaptations because somethings are most definitely going to change but not every change is a bad change and if you're watching it thinking it will be a remake of the books, you're gonna be disappointed and miss out on the interesting changes that might be better than the books. I personally found the lotus scene here better than the books scene (like this was way more relevant to the plotline and had more substance) so I'm really glad that you actually saw the episode with a positive mindset and liked it! You're my favourite reactor to this series. We have so many similar thoughts on the show. I love your videos.

[@jacobdichosa9997]

Hey Mikaila, love your vids!!, just asking if you're gonna read Heroes of Olympus soon?

[@SimplyTiggs]

Wait you do know there’s a Percy Jackson MUSICAL, right? Annabeth, Percy and (I think) Grover all have want songs and more! The bonus track “Try” that they all sing together is my favorite song from the show. And Tree On the Hill is SOOO SAD BUT GOOD. I think you’d really like the show