The Vampire Diaries – Episode 2-11 Review

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This past week brought us yet another strong episode of The Vampire Diaries – one that continued the season’s trend of answering some recently asked questions while retaining enough mystique and interest to keep us watching.  In this episode’s case, we now understand why Elijah saved Elena from the prior week’s vampire attack.

I am intrigued by the possible ramifications of Elena’s new deal with Elijah.  Is Elijah being completely truthful with Elena about his plan, which seems to imply that she’ll escape the entire ordeal unscathed?  Let’s say Elijah does kill Klaus – will he really just let Elena go on her merry way?  And how will less trusting characters like Damon and Rose respond to this uneasy alliance?

For that matter, what do you think of Luka and his dad?  A couple of episodes ago, when it was revealed that Luka’s father was working alongside Elijah, it seemed like they might be something unsavory.  Now that it appears that Elijah is actually trying to protect Elena, I’m not sure.  Then again, Luka’s father did want him to essentially use Bonnie, so they’re probably not “good” either.  Personally, I’m leaning towards the side that says they’re going to end up being something of an antagonist – if only to ensure that Bonnie ends up with Jeremy by the end of the season.

And excuse my ignorance, but exactly what portion of the curse did Bonnie and Luka disable when they destroyed the moonstone?  Did it just break the barrier so that Stefan could escape the cave?

Caroline and Tyler continue to bring the awesome in the season’s B-story.  They did an absolutely wonderful job of showing us how dreadful the werewolf transformation can actually be.  I was especially impressed with the visual effects, notably the bone crunching and unnatural manner in which his limbs would twist.  And let’s not discount the actor’s performance.  His screaming and wailing were believable and uncomfortable to watch.  You really sensed the immense pain he must be experiencing.  And while I hate seeing nice guys get overlooked, quite honestly I do enjoy the budding relationship between Caroline and Tyler, and wouldn’t mind seeing them end up together.  It’s also nice that these two characters have developed to the point that they can carry their own story, especially one with such substance.

The arrival of a new, more experienced werewolf also adds some intrigue to the ongoing tension between the vamps and their furry foes, and it gives us yet another example of how Damon’s impulsive and volatile behavior can get him – and the those he cares about – in quite a bit of trouble.  Although I did love how her skills are so honed that she can smell a vampire and a (date rape?) drug upon walking into a bar.  And who do you think she was on the phone with?

Well, that’s it for me until the beginning of next year.  Damn CW and their long hiatuses (although this isn’t as bad as usual).  I hope everybody has a wonderful holiday season and a safe, happy new year!  See you again in late January!  Visit the blog (http://www.acaseoftheblog.blogspot.com) and follow me on Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/acaseofthetwit) until then!!

Matt Basilo has been writing for Inside Pulse since April 2005, providing his insight into various popular television shows. Be sure to visit his blog at [a case of the blog] and follow him on Twitter.