Heartstopper S2 Episode 7 - UNCUT
Added 2023-08-26 15:01:23 +0000 UTCThis was INTENSE. So many good moments to talk about in this one!
Hope you enjoy this unedited reaction to the penultimate episode.
Love,
Alex & Josh xox
Comments
You`re so right - I`m 52 years old - and Heartstopper has let me find my representation this year - I didn`t know about being in spectrum of aroace. A life changing experience which let`s me questioning so many things. I`m not quite there taking the deep breath, but I`m working on it. Are there other asexual classical musicians out there ?
patgeka
2024-12-15 22:21:07 +0000 UTCI’ve been re-watching your reactions. About Charlie’s mom-I don’t think she has as much that needs to be redeemed. As a parent she did what she should have and restricted his distractions temporarily so he could focus on school and get his grades up.
Dani
2024-07-05 14:42:08 +0000 UTCAs someone who only figured out they are Ace 4 years ago when I was 48, Isaac's story really resonates with me. It makes me both very happy but also wistful. I'm so happy that kids these days have all this representation so maybe it won't be as hard for some of them, but I also wish I'd had something like this when I was young. Figuring it out was like finally being able to take a deep breath and relax after all these years.
Angela
2024-06-27 02:21:53 +0000 UTCLiv's eye roll at 40:11 gives me life.
Archie Craven
2024-05-14 13:39:55 +0000 UTCLOVE the discussion after Ben’s apology. I agree with you both. We can feel for Ben and view him as a tragic figure who genuinely wants to do better, while also acknowledging that Charlie was a victim who doesn’t need to accept Ben’s apology. Ben not only treated Charlie like crap, but he manipulated him when Charlie was at his lowest self-esteem from the bullying. Sad not to see Bash next season, but Ben’s character has served it’s purpose to give a focal point to Charlie’s mental health, and a catalyst for his recovery in season 3.
Brian Sheehan
2024-02-14 20:49:42 +0000 UTCThank you for your compassion with Isaac. As an older woman who identifies as demisexual, there are very little asexual representation in pop culture. It is no wonder that Isaac is confused. It is for this very same reason that I have only managed to identify quite late in life. I always thought I was just different. Heartstopper and you guys cast a much needed light. ❤️
Johanna Nel
2023-12-29 22:53:17 +0000 UTCSo we'll put together and presented, such authentic performances and connections, navigate this world and show representation in a bright and beautiful light, we all deserve to be seen, heard and loved for ourselves, but still needing to be achieved and freed in this world 🌎
Gina Lipkin
2023-12-21 16:34:57 +0000 UTCAlice did it again!! S2E7 started with a happy Darcy and ended with a sad Charlie at the end of s1e7. We repeated s1e2 when Nick stretched Charlie’s picture of full plate. The umbrellas from s1e4 were back e7s2, Charlie under yellow and Nick under blue). We now see what Elle saw in the Louvre (and used it as inspiration for her piece at exhibit) same as S2E5. Ben’s final goodbye as he’s not coming back. We see that Charlie’s disorder is far reaching (including being outed, the bullying and Ben💔😡😭). As a mother whose daughter was bullied, Ben does NOT need any sympathy 💔😡😭 We also see that Ben ruined “his good thing”😡The fact that Ben walked away from the rainbow in ocean (s2e7) is symbolic to Nick (s1e7) embracing his bisexuality and going in ocean declaring his love for Charlie (even at this stage they are in love 👨❤️👨❤️) S1e2&8 when Charlie says platonic bffs and then continues to call Nick “mate (scene in Nick & Charlie book), pal, bro & supportive straight friend (s1e2 text message to Nick) that he calls Nick in s1e2. Because of David, Nick finally came out to his father, much to his mother’s happiness (even though she looked as if she wanted kill her ex and David). Tori once again proved just how much she loves her brother 💕 This was first time Olivia didn’t realize that Charlie has s severe eating disorder and depression 💔😭 Nick finally looks up eating disorder, this scene ended v3, last page of book (but Nick, in book was in car coming back from Menorca). Alice brought v1-3 to life in this episode, especially ending s2e7 same as s1e7; with sad Darcy and the smudged out Sorry title and black and purple movie Rolls/Credits at end 💔
Tina Stellato
2023-09-30 09:14:00 +0000 UTCThere’s a BEAUTIFUL little moment during the dinner 🍽️ party… …while Olivia/Sarah is telling Nick’s father off, Charlie’s dad gives Charlie a quick eye-signal to Charlie that communicates “check on Nick & make sure he’s alright.” I LOVE Charlie’s dad. All the little caring things he does.
Gavin Best
2023-09-25 21:27:31 +0000 UTCi think the key point with ben is that, yes, we have the space to process the nuances and to want him to be better, to be sad that he's turning his back on the community, etc.... but that's precisely because *we* aren't the ones he hurt. it's not fair, safe, or actually helpful for victims to be responsible for supporting their abusers, even in the pursuit of positive change.
b
2023-09-23 21:35:54 +0000 UTCI just had to reply to this message because it is so strange that you mentioned the New Zealand family. Is this the video where they also discuss how the US has lawyer commercials, red solo cups, spray cheese, etc....? If it is, that is amazing because I just randomly watched that video the other day and here you are talking about it.
Mike
2023-09-03 16:39:38 +0000 UTCForgiveness. In 1981 Mehmet Ali Agca shot Pope John Paul II in St. Peter’s Square. The Pope survived, obviously. A few years later, when Agca was serving a prison sentence and John Paul was recovered, the Pope went to Agca’s cell to speak with him and tell Agca he forgave him. But John Paul did NOT ask the Italian authorities to grant Agca a pardon and let him go free. Personal forgiveness can be a great thing, but the consequences of your actions in the world must still be faced.
Steve Teeter
2023-09-02 20:55:47 +0000 UTCMike: There's a YouTube channel of a New Zealand family reacting to video about US society and culture. One thing that really surprised them was the popularity of school sports, high school and college. The US is so huge few people live near cities with pro teams, so they cheer for their high school instead. But in the UK? That's just not a thing. School teams are quite used to playing to empty stands. So if parents don't go to games, it's not surprising. It's just not part of the culture.
Steve Teeter
2023-09-02 20:12:20 +0000 UTCYou two are so fucking hysterical. Worth every penny for the full episodes. Alex: *looks to the left, looks to the right*. "Nurse!!!" I almost spit my drink out. Watching the last episode next. Please, please... Start Buffy. I would love (and pay dearly) for the two of you reacting to some of my favorite moments.
Bryan Sutton
2023-08-30 21:39:07 +0000 UTCSo good to watch these things with you, thank you!!
Naava
2023-08-30 07:01:34 +0000 UTCHey guys , when are we putting last episode?
Wildallie Diaz
2023-08-30 02:20:02 +0000 UTCI like your black top where's it from
Richard Hurst
2023-08-29 17:07:21 +0000 UTCAn apology takes responsibility for what you did and Ben didn't do that. His whole apology was a series of I statements (I'm a messed up person, I want what you have, my parents would be against it, I wanted something good). At no time did he address how his behaviour affected Charlie. As Charlie said the apology was for Ben and not Charlie. Charlie does not have to forgive his abuser. He could do it for himself but that is something that Charlie needs to do on his own and not when ambushed by Ben. (If you read Solitaire Ben's storyline has a much harsher resolution. This is the happy, fun version of that storyline)
Rosie Dickinson
2023-08-28 23:06:49 +0000 UTC"series can make it seem like forgiveness and growth is a bad thing" The series did neither of those things. Ben did nothing in that scene to earn Charlie's forgiveness. He didn't acknowledge the assault or manipulation of Charlie's emotions. It was a shortsighted, self-centered apology that only took into account his own feelings and not Charlie's. If the series had made this a redemption scene for Ben based on what he was saying it would have sent the wrong message. I said it elsewhere, I think Charlie does hope for Ben to continue to grow and be a better person, he just doesn't feel a need to be a witness to it, he doesn't need it in his orbit. Would you want a person who assaulted you in your life?
Mike
2023-08-28 18:40:35 +0000 UTCThe Ben scene is probably my least favourite of the series. I don't get how a gnenerally happy and light-hearted series can make it seem like forgiveness and growth is a bad thing. We should always foster forgiveness so we don't end up with unnecessary hate taking up real estate in our headspace. We can't forget what someone did, but we should definitely forgive and let someone trying to change grow. Also, we should always support those that are trying to change for the better, especially those in our community.
Gam Mac
2023-08-28 17:23:46 +0000 UTCI think Alice said in a post on Twitter or Instagram that they don't know either. I'm not 100% sure though.
Makayla Hall
2023-08-28 04:03:32 +0000 UTCThe brilliance of this series for me is that it models healthy behavior. Sure, at present in the real world, kids would likely not be able to do and say what many of the characters do in the show. But how will they ever know unless alternatives are presented to them. That's what Heartstopper does. It presents an idealized world of what is possible, not what is.
Darrin Bodner
2023-08-28 00:57:34 +0000 UTCWho did Ellle's art show peice? it's beautiful
indigo
2023-08-27 23:43:46 +0000 UTCJosh’s reactions during the dinner scene are everything 😂
Lorianne
2023-08-27 22:55:31 +0000 UTCBen lays some blame on his parents. I'll believe it when I see it.
Hugh Campbell
2023-08-27 21:40:44 +0000 UTCAlice Oseman is such a genius!
Sandra
2023-08-27 18:32:34 +0000 UTCI have been so excited for you to watch this episode. I really enjoyed hearing you discuss everything that happened. I knew that you would both have such a positive and appreciative response for all the representation. Well done Alice Oseman for her amazing writing and story telling!
Heidi Roush
2023-08-27 16:41:53 +0000 UTCThis anticipated reaction definitely did not disappoint!! This is honestly my favorite episode of the season, and I think Charlie's scene with Ben; and Nick's with his father was so well done!! Kit and Joe brought out their acting chops x1000 in this one lol! Thank you Alex and Josh for your insightful and heartfelt interpretation of the episode/certain scenes. This is why I love you guys, you look deeply into things and have very real discussions... it's much appreciated!! Love you!! :D
Nicole Sadler
2023-08-27 15:17:50 +0000 UTCI think Jane sees herself as the disciplinarian of the family, at least with Charlie. To do that you have to be willing to be a hardass and have people mad at you. But a disciplinarian "off duty" is a different person and can relax (at least until the family drama starts). We see it here with Jane, and we saw it in S2E6 with Mr. Farouk. After Charlie faints (which doesn't break any rules, incidentally), Mr Farouk gets him a sandwich and a drink, and when he sits down at the table the hardass is gone. He's caring and kind.
Steve Teeter
2023-08-27 15:15:49 +0000 UTCYou’re simply the best 🤩🤩🤩
Óscar Grisales Arredondo
2023-08-27 14:53:29 +0000 UTCThis isn't the books we're discussing.
Mike
2023-08-27 13:42:34 +0000 UTCi cant waite until final episode i hope we dont have to waite to long and iam so happy with charlie standing up to ben he need to hear that and i love how nick stand up to his bother and his dad now they both can move on and just be happy in love.
lisa mcarthur
2023-08-27 08:35:45 +0000 UTCIt’s not really about the rugby matches, is it? We see Nick’s mum and Charlie’s dad supporting them in ways we don’t see with Charlie’s mum. We don’t see those two treat them anything like as badly as Jane treats Charlie (in the books).
Suze
2023-08-27 07:38:43 +0000 UTCOh, it was fully just an observation of something media does not always show. Not a reaction to the fact that Nick has had to come out to family twice as being outside the norm. More just a comment on the juxtaposition of the s1 and s2 coming outs. Most times in media it is presented as a big/grand one and done. But as we all a know, like you said, it is a life long process anytime someone new comes into your life.
Michael D
2023-08-27 05:18:57 +0000 UTCGreat reaction as always. Can’t wait for you to react to the finale. Tissues at the ready!
Jamie
2023-08-27 03:01:11 +0000 UTCJosh, I love your wallpaper shirt. You use your shirts to fan yourself a lot. I bet you have a high metabolism and your BF has to sleep on the other side of the bed because you are a furnace. Alex, you may not realize it but your shirt represents your inner Liv. Those are two of her main colors in the series.
Mike
2023-08-27 02:32:59 +0000 UTCNo words, just 👌🏻
Hannah Howden
2023-08-27 01:55:06 +0000 UTCAlice did it again!! E7 started with a happy Darcy and ended with a sad Darcy like s1e7. We repeated s1e2 when Nick stretched Charlie’s picture of full plate. The umbrellas from s1e3&4 were back e7s2. We saw what Elle saw in the Louve same as S2E5. Ben’s final goodbye as he’s not coming back. S1e2&8 when Charlie says platonic bffs and then continues to call Nick “mate, pal, bro & supportive straight friend”. Nick finally looks up eating disorder. Alice brought v1-3 to life in this episode, especially ending s2e7 same as s1e7. Just a quick note about s2e8: in an interview with Alice she said that it took Kit and Joe 7 hours to complete scene because it was so emotional 🥲 and the song will break your heart 💔
Tina Stellato
2023-08-27 01:37:53 +0000 UTCAbout the Ben scene, I'm actually glad that Charlie didn't feel like he had to wish Ben all the best, especially when this confrontation is only taking place because Ben essentially stalked Charlie and his friends to know they would be at the exhibition. Do I think Charlie wants Ben to be miserable? No, of course not, he has too good of a heart for that. Do I think he needs to actively wish for Ben to be happy? Also no. Feeling indifferent about someone who has hurt you is a big step and I'm happy he has grown enough to reveal the extent to which he's been impacted by Ben, not just to Ben himself, but to Nick as well. Good on him for making his boundaries so crystal clear. (And despite my feelings towards Ben, the imagery of the rainbow tide coming in and him stepping away hurt me to my CORE.)
momoroxy
2023-08-27 01:33:06 +0000 UTCAlex and Josh, great reaction as always! You’re absolutely right, there’s so much to process in this episode and unfortunately in episode 8 as well. I’m going to use your words, You’re both “Top Tier”! Thank You
Diane Furlong
2023-08-27 01:26:08 +0000 UTCI'll never understand why some folk want to always see the worst in Jane. She's not a perfect mother by any means. We never see Charlie's dad at a game, or Nick's mom, Sarah, for that matter. Are we assuming they never go to the rugby matches?
Mike
2023-08-27 01:26:02 +0000 UTCLove the reaction as always 💜
Kim Engel
2023-08-27 01:20:31 +0000 UTCThis was one of my favourite parts. I love when Tori said to Nick "your brothers a prick" iconic moment 🙂 unfortunately it's very suttle and can be easily missed. Love Tori.
Cathy Mills
2023-08-27 00:53:18 +0000 UTCI can’t possibly elaborate any more than all the other brilliant comments already have, but I will say this: I hope you know how beautiful and how important your reflections are to this show. I just love how you aren’t afraid to shy away from really digging into the hows and whys of each situation, and your personal reflections add so much depth and understanding to the conversations about this show. So, thank you for being so open and honest, and for recognizing the beauty and nuances of this show, as well as all the other queer media you react to.
Charlie
2023-08-27 00:29:39 +0000 UTCI agree 100%. One of the things the show does so well is give its audience the tools to understand and potentially handle these situations. The way Nick and Charlie (and the others) communicate with one another is, yes, wise beyond their years, but that’s the point. They’re showing how important it is to communicate, to stand up for yourself, to recognize your worth, and to seek out a community that will respect you and help you be your true self. This show is SO SO important for this very reason, and I hope it gives the younger generation the proper tools and understanding so that they see themselves represented and know how important their self worth is.
Charlie
2023-08-27 00:21:56 +0000 UTCThat's the thing about coming out, we don't just do it once and it's done. It's something we have to keep doing, to the people we choose to in our lives, and to new people we meet along the way. Happily for Nick, after this dinner scene, he has officially checked off all of the most important people on his list. A weight definitely does get lifted when this happens...
gunclevanya
2023-08-27 00:21:32 +0000 UTCAlice Oseman said in an interview that it was important to show that not all queer people get the happy resolution that most of the HS kids are getting. Ben's apology to Charlie was only partially sincere, the wording of it showed that he was still trying to manipulate Charlie into seeing things his (deluded) way. Ben externalized his internal problems by taking it out on everyone around him, and he still hasn't learned fully how wrong that is. So, this is how Ben exits the show. And I think it's fitting -- if Charlie is finally done with him, so are we. Let him switch schools, bye Felicia. (Although in the novel Solitaire, it's revealed that Ben only went across the road to Higgs, but Ben's speech in the show made it sound like he was going somewhere further away)
gunclevanya
2023-08-26 23:52:58 +0000 UTCIt wasn't until watching this that I actually saw and heard the interaction between Tori and Nick in the background when Charlie's mum is redeeming herself! Just adds that extra layer to how much we all wish we were a Tori.
Sam W
2023-08-26 23:27:11 +0000 UTCReally good reaction to the Ben scenes, I wouldn't have been as kind about Ben, but that's because it touched a nerve, you're much fairer than I would have been. Charlie was right to do as he did. I have to say the second season acting has went up a gear, brilliant all round, such a good cast. You guys crack me up between the serious bits, my comments are always jocular and not serious it's just my humour, I have a brain condition and I don't always get it right so don't take offence, I wouldn't be a patreon without adoring the two of you.
Mark Smith
2023-08-26 23:14:04 +0000 UTCDuring the part of the episode where Elle and Tao talk about the future, you talked about the fact that many high school relationships end when the young people go to Uni. And even more so for queer people who often don't even come out, until years later. All true. I met my partner at age 37 and discovered queer joy in relationship only at that point. (I didn't even figure out how to come out at all until my mid-20s.) But that just makes these stories of Nick and Charlie, Tara and Darcy, Tao and Elle more inspiring. Because a big part of the representation in these stories is about EARLY clarity of identity. By this age, these characters already know who they are, whom they love, that they are queer. And they find their courage to stand up, declare, be authentic, be out and in relationship. This is good, healing, hopeful, representation. And then of course, for both queer and straight people, many of those early relationships will end. Perhaps with sadness (or relief), and with wisdom gained for the next one. But still. A very few of those early relationships will indeed have the "fifty-year glue" that persists for a lifetime, and that others will only discover much later, if at all. It's good to have representation of this kind of "we figured it out early" queer relationship.
David Gadd
2023-08-26 22:42:32 +0000 UTCIs Alex Okay after this?? He looked like me after my first college lecture..
Ruslan Zulfugarov
2023-08-26 22:30:57 +0000 UTCI too felt Ben was seriously affected by something or someone to lash out as he has. Plus his reactions and behaviors are very common. He clearly has work to do and I hope that people realize that representation is valuable because it may turn a lightbulb on for those that find themselves being a Ben.
Julie Baker
2023-08-26 22:23:43 +0000 UTCI love what you said about the conversation between Ben and Charlie you hit all the main points. I would just say that you would be surprised at how insightful some kids are. My job is organising educators to talk to teens about healthy relationships and the conversations I have sat in on could rival Charlie's introspection. I do think it is probably not every kid (Harry does not have this) but especially kids who have been bullied or are a bit different will have spent time thinking about and making up reasons for why they feel a certain way. They don't always come to the correct conclusions but they will have given it some thought. Also as much of a prick as David is that moment when his dad didn't know what uni he went to and the look on his face. No one deserves to have that dad or Darcy's mum and David's hero worship of his dad with no reciprocation is heart breaking. Suddenly all of his comments about staying with dad or dad would agree with him make so much sense. He is still an absolute prick that fully deserved to have the wrath of Tori.
Rosie Dickinson
2023-08-26 21:55:00 +0000 UTCTo me, Book Ben would never have apologized. He punches Charlie after the smallest hint that Charlie may have told Tori what happened between them. I don’t think there is any remorse there, Book Ben is more strongly in the hating and fearing his own queerness than Show Ben. But that’s just my personal take.
Trisha Renee
2023-08-26 21:35:00 +0000 UTCp.s maybe I should have read some of the earlier comments and I wouldn't have had to go off on one. 🙂
Pip
2023-08-26 21:35:00 +0000 UTCAlex and josh's analysis of the Ben and Charlie conversation was spot on. I'll probably get nailed to a tree for this but I've always felt sorry for Ben. Ben is just as messed up psychologically as Charlie. Charlie's angst, his lack of self worth (not helped by Ben's awful behaviour) and his not wanting to exist, all manifest themselves in his self harm, his eating disorder etc. Ben's angst, his situation at home and I'm guessing his internalised homophobia manifest themselves through anger and rage and lashing out because he cannot be who he wants to be. And why are they both like this? Because even today, society and governments and religions sling so much homophobic shit at LGBT+ people telling them who they can and cannot be and who they can and cannot love and in some places even executing people just for being themselves. And today we have some States in the USA (The land of the free) removing copies of Heartstopper from the shelves of school libraries just because they tell a story of two boys falling in love, FFS. Sorry, rant over. I'm calm now; Good review boys.
Pip
2023-08-26 21:32:35 +0000 UTCOK, lots to unpack in that episode. It is one of the most complicated episodes to date and you may need to watch it again off line to catch the bits you missed. There were a few key points. The journey towards Nick finally understanding that Charlie has an eating disorder started in this episode with him flicking through pictures of the gang around the table in Paris and him zooming in on Charlie's still full plate. These all add up. I want to suggest that Ben's scene is not a clear cut as it seems, and Charlie's comments to him were spot on in my opinion. Ben acted as though by simply saying what was going on with him was all he needed to do. It was totally from his perspective and he was expecting forgiveness without acknowledging that he did things that were bad. Even mentioning his family not accepting him, is like he expects others to see that it was not his fault. It felt to me that Ben was using every excuse in the book that it was someone elses fault, and he took no responsibility. Tori is to die for. The scene kicking the phone from David's hand was the most anticipated among the 'twitter fandom' as it is iconic in the comics. As always, thank you for your reaction. It always makes me consider my thinking which is coloured by my having read the comics. Happy Sunday Morning in the cold southern hemisphere. 🩷
Steve Marshall
2023-08-26 21:29:46 +0000 UTCI kinda disagree, they seem pretty similar to me. I think show Ben is more insecure publicly, but privately they are pretty similar. Show Ben doesn’t have the “popular, attractive” guy kinda feel to him, he seems more like a quieter person in the friend group. At least in season 1, season 2 resembles book Ben more. Also, I don’t think Book Ben was as obsessed with Charlie. He was more obsessed with getting caught and just thought Charlie was attractive and easy to play around with. Show Ben likes the actual control he has on Charlie and the idea he has of Charlie (being someone he can control easily).
Ophelia
2023-08-26 21:23:31 +0000 UTCI’ve read Solitaire, but show Ben and book Ben have a clear deviation from each other, so I don’t necessarily think show Ben ends up having the same story.
Trisha Renee
2023-08-26 21:05:56 +0000 UTCBen features in Solitaire a non-graphic novel by Alice Oseman, so you can find out what happens to his character and why if you would like to. It’s worth reading because it’s Tori’s story although many people don’t rate it as much as the Heartstopper series. Nick and Charlie, and This Winter, both non-graphic novellas are very good in my opinion and fit in between or after the Heartstopper books.
Graham & Ruth May
2023-08-26 21:03:41 +0000 UTCAmazing reaction as always. I so appreciate your insight into the scenes. As others have mentioned, yours always feel the most comprehensive
Laura Ibarra
2023-08-26 19:27:11 +0000 UTCYou score lower this time boys, how could Alex possibly forget about Olivia
Mark Smith
2023-08-26 19:26:04 +0000 UTCHAVE TISSUES AT THE READY FOR THE LAST EPISODE! well maybe I was sobbing at the end. I love the fact that they played Crush Culture by Conan Grey there in that moment with Isaac. That song is basically about not conforming to the ideas of crush culture and about now caring how people think about them because on crush culture. That song basically described what finding out you are ace is about. This show does such a good job at representation. I remember feeling so different and not knowing what was wrong or what was different about me and then like that person said freedom when you do figure out what it was. That release is emotions knowing that there is nothing wrong with you knowing that you arnt weird. And they do an amazing job at showing that. And then the Ben situation. I kind of agree with what you are saying. I feel bad that his parents suck but. The mix of having Ben and Darcy in very similar situations and I haven't watched the rest of this yet so I don't know what your guys take is on Darcys situation yet but having them both come from bad homes and being completely different shows that Ben is choosing to act like he is. Darcy is choosing to end the cycle of abuse that happens in houses because statistically kids who are abused go on to be abusers or marry abusers. Darcy is choosing to end the cycle and not be either and Ben is affectively choosing to become an abuser. So having those where it shows that just because you have a bad home life or were abused it doesn't mean you have to become an abuser. And the bit with the rainbow wave I feel shows that Ben can and again back to the whole (the abused tippically become the abuser) it shows that Ben can go in there and be himself and be happy and not become a horrible person but he chose not to go in there. He chose to not try and get better. He chose not the be himself. There's a lot to unpack with this episode.
Makayla Hall
2023-08-26 19:16:23 +0000 UTCI was going to mention the nod from Charlie's dad at the dinner table - I'm so glad someone else spotted it. We seem to get little physical glimpses of how deeply Charlie's dad loves and cares for his son. These are easy to miss, but I think they tell us something of the relationship between father and son which may not be verbal, but in gestures we see something of the caring nature of Charlie's dad which is complementary to the harshness we see from Charlie's mum.
Andrew W
2023-08-26 19:15:02 +0000 UTCOne of my favs too, honestly. “Sorry” is the perfect title. I love the parallels you drew between Ben and Nick’s dad/brother, it’s a perfect way to phrase it “when you love yourself, you realise you’re okay without them. You don’t need to suffer.” Isaac made me tear up… when I first saw that scene at the art exhibition I literally had to pause and walk around my room for a bit because I was so ecstatic to hear the words aromantic asexual spoken aloud. I can count the amount of media I know with aro/ace representation on less than one hand, and back when I was figuring my aroace identity out over 10 years ago, I knew of zero. So grateful to the creator Alice Oseman (who is also openly aroace!!) for being this spring of creating good, beautiful representation for our community. Glad to see how much you are taking from this series too, the conversations you have are so on point I find myself nodding along the whole time haha
CC
2023-08-26 18:50:20 +0000 UTCAlso I need the reaction to episode 8...like now kThanks
Mads
2023-08-26 18:48:46 +0000 UTCIts such a great parallel to hear Ben say his parents would never accept him but he wishes he had what Nick and Charlie have, to Nick telling his dad he doesn't even care if he accepts him because he likes his life. I think it really shows how Charlie standing up for himself, led to Nick standing up for himself and wanting to push himself to be obviously better than Ben, but live more truthfully in himself, because he saw how hiding (like Ben) makes for a dishonest and hurtful person.
Mads
2023-08-26 18:47:40 +0000 UTCy'all CANNOT make us wait another week for the finale!!!
Lorianne
2023-08-26 18:43:03 +0000 UTCI feel like this season every episode gets better. I cry every time i watch the finale, so be ready!! Like most people, I have split feelings on Ben. I am so glad they didn’t make Charlie forgive him and it really showed Charlie’s growth and how much stronger he feels in himself with his friends and Nick’s support. There is no way he would have put himself first in season 1 the way he did. I’m also sad to see Ben walk away from the rainbow and turn his back on who he is. I’m hopeful though because he has two fresh starts coming soon: going to a new school for 6th form and then Uni. I hope that he can eventually reinvent himself when he gets away from his old life. We’ll never know, but it’s something that I hope for him.
Trisha Renee
2023-08-26 18:42:42 +0000 UTCAll these insightful comments have said most of what I would say, so I'll just add some insight that I've gotten from my rewatching and hearing interviews from Seb, Alice, Joe, Kit, etc. First- the constant questioning of intentions by Charlie to Nick when he is asked to do public things, like go to prom.. Or even kissing infront of his parents. It all stems for the trauma he mentions in his speech to Ben. He is always feeling undeserving and needing to hide his feelings to save embarrassment for others by his actions. Second- the rainbow wave is (stated by Alice) a direct callback to s1 finale where Nick and Charlie have their beach wave. Where Nick let's it envelope him. Ben walks away and rejects it. There are multiple times this season where we get the juxtaposition of Nick vs Ben an how they handle(d) similar situations. Both are roughly Bi, both like(d) Charlie, Nick has a supportive home life/Ben has a confrontational home life. Alice explored how different upbringings and surroundings can result in different paths exploring the same journeys. Third- I also love the dinner scene.. But I love it because I look around at all the reactions during Nick actively ignoring David's bullying and then coming out to his dad. Sarah Nelson lights up when he says 'I like my life' and Charlie is beeming at his courage. Tori disgusted with David (as are the viewers) and Charlie's mom is sad and anxious from the confrontation. Etc. Etc. Also. It's kind of crazy that Kit has had to act out now two coming out scenes.. With complete opposite purposes and still having similar results. David and his dad can go jump off a cliff. Honestly. GO TORI!
Michael D
2023-08-26 18:33:41 +0000 UTCHaving this representation is sooo important. Most people have never even heard of asexuality, so if you are a young person trying to find out where you fit in you often get well-meaning but hurtful comments like James’ “you just haven’t found the right person.” As someone who grew up loving people deeply but never sexually, this kind of representation could have changed my life. I just thought I was too broken to ever be normal or loved. I’m so so glad Alice added Isaac and his arc to the series. She is saving so many lives with her stories 💜
Dee Lalley
2023-08-26 18:27:51 +0000 UTCI like that you pointed out about Ben rejecting the support and love a community can bring. Too many people are trying to say that Ben doesn’t have what the rest of them have, but Ben directly rejected that. Charlie wanted more from him, and he would have been brought in by Charlie’s friends, just like Nick was. But he made the choice to be cruel, rather than trying.
Ophelia
2023-08-26 18:24:31 +0000 UTCSuch a good episode. Probably my favourite of the season and maybe even of the show. So many different amazing moments and emotions.
BexFangirl
2023-08-26 18:02:18 +0000 UTCI appreciate your conflicted feelings about Ben. That character's storyline has gotten a lot of hate. I definitely appreciate not wanting him around due to the SA, but as an older person, and one who has taught 14 year olds for 20+ years, I have had students just like Ben (and his family). Alice Oseman is a master at exploring all queer identities & allowing them to be seen. Ben's character is far too common in real life - the self hatred brought on by fear of rejection by those who are supposed to love you unconditionally. The fear can turn into hate & lashing out at others so easily. It's not an excuse, but it's a reason. If other kids in Ben's situation can see/hear their impact on others, maybe it will prevent another SA, or help another "Ben" to take a different path, or a least think twice. Although Charlie's speech to Ben is beyond his years, I think that's the point. Those watching the show, whether in Charlie's position, or Ben's, are being given a gift of words to use and impacts to be seen/heard.
RH
2023-08-26 17:58:42 +0000 UTCSame. I feel validated and learn even more watching your reactions. Definitely a top-tier reaction.
RH
2023-08-26 17:49:25 +0000 UTCAnd also why the Ben storyline is so important to include. There are a lot of haters out there saying he shouldn't have gotten more storyline because of the SA, but there are kids out there just like Ben. Being able to see and hear how their actions may impact others is a representation that they need to see, let alone being able to see the self-hatred represented.
RH
2023-08-26 17:44:54 +0000 UTCI couldn’t agree more.
Graham & Ruth May
2023-08-26 17:42:19 +0000 UTCWhat I love about the show is that they keep reinforcing that bullies do not deserve to be forgiven or redeemed by the people they hurt. Like Charlie slamming the door on Harry or the scene with Ben. Ben has work to do. But it isn’t Charlie’s responsibility to help him do it. I also like the parallel of season 1 episode 7 being called Bully and this episode 7 being called Sorry. Because sorry isn’t enough.
Ann Farrelly
2023-08-26 17:40:07 +0000 UTCI can’t be the only one longing to see you in your prom outfits! (Josh, that top does not look like wallpaper, whatever Alex says.) This episode is definitely a LOT. Amongst all the things that are top-tier for me, I think it’s such an interesting exploration of how poor parenting and toxic home life have affected Ben and Darcy differently. Darcy stands up to the abuse from her mother and walks out; she tries to be true to herself and to Tara, although she is struggling with believing that she is worth loving in the face of her mother’s making her feel that nothing she does is good enough; Ben steps away from the rainbow graphic and actually turns his back to the camera, walks away into the distance. I felt when I saw that scene for the first time that maybe that says something about his inability to square up to his identity and also his responsibility for the way he’s treated Charlie. It would be comforting to believe he could redeem himself..if you want to know what happens to him, read Solitaire, which is really Tori’s story, but Ben features in it too. I remember Josh describing Darcy as ‘chaos’ in season 1, but here we can see some of the reasons why. Great episode and top tier reaction, guys! Thank you! 👏🥰
Graham & Ruth May
2023-08-26 17:38:08 +0000 UTCBloody loved this, as always! Great how much you enjoyed the episode. I'm now chomping at the bit for the episode 8 reaction.
Rosie Carlisle
2023-08-26 17:35:02 +0000 UTCFrom the standpoint of the beauty of Alice Oseman's writing, consider how Charlie's speech to Ben helped give strength to Nick to come out to his Dad. Nick and Charlie always balance and compliment each other.
Dennis Verner
2023-08-26 17:34:16 +0000 UTCI also really love Issac’s arc and watching him discover his sexuality. It really resonates and I love to see this representation! If you are looking for more understanding on Aro/Ace Alice Oseman’s book “Loveless” is a beautiful story of aromanticism and asexuality. The actor who plays Issac said he used it to help him portray the scenes in Heartstopper. Also Ben and Charlie’s scene was powerful and there is so much to take away. This season is even more powerful on re-watch. So many hints and foreshadowing that is easily missed. Just a lovely series!
Samm Daugherty
2023-08-26 17:34:13 +0000 UTCAmazing reaction as always guys!! You will need those tissues for the final one though 😅
Ethan Murphy
2023-08-26 17:32:46 +0000 UTCI’m so glad Ben is done and not coming back for season 3. Bye Felicia!
Amber
2023-08-26 17:29:23 +0000 UTCMy favorite reaction to one of the best episodes.
Laurie Barber
2023-08-26 17:22:15 +0000 UTCJust reading your comments there are some amazing thoughts and takes on the key scenes in this episode. You guys are the best 🙌❤️
A Story Worth Telling
2023-08-26 17:19:57 +0000 UTCAs an older asexual who didn't figure things out (or even know the words to describe how I was feeling) until my mid twenties, Isaac's storyline really got to me this season. This would have been life-changing representation for me if I'd seen it as a teen. Little easter egg - the book directly behind Isaac in the bookshop scene is Alice Oseman's incredible book Loveless, featuring an aroace protagonist.
Lucy
2023-08-26 17:17:40 +0000 UTCY'all mention a couple of times that there's a sort of unrealistic quality to the dialogue sometimes, but I think that may actually be part of the point of the show. It's intended to be aspirational, I think - setting up situations where queer kids might find themselves. But unlike straight kids, who've often seen situations for themselves in the media they consume, queer kids often do not. So Heartstopper is aspiration not just in "this is how it should be" but also "this is what someone would say in this situation, if they had the words to do so." As a result, these kids often seem very wise and mature, particularly in difficult situations, but I think it's an incredible dynamic.
Joseph Carriker
2023-08-26 17:14:52 +0000 UTCFab reaction for another terrific episode. There’s an enormous amount to unpack in that Ben-Charlie scene: I’m sure you could discuss it for a whole hour by itself. I hadn’t picked up on the parallel between this scene and Nick’s chat with his Dad but it makes sense that he’d be inspired by Charlie’s braveness. I know you’re averse, Josh, but the dinner scene is worth a rewatch: there are a lot of great reactions around the table. Mike’s already mentioned Charlie’s mum’s reaction to his ‘bad at rugby’ line but there’s also a subtle moment where Charlie’s Dad gives him a little nod to go and see if Nick is OK. However - you missed one of the best moments: Queen Liv’s face when Stephane mentions rugby being very attractive to women. It’s utterly hilarious and amazing. Sad that we only have one more uncut ep but can’t wait to see your reaction to the finale.
Graham Turner
2023-08-26 17:14:44 +0000 UTCThis is my favorite episode of this entire series. I was really excited to see your reactions. I could write an entire dissertation on Charlie and Ben and intimate partner violence. I have deep empathy for Ben because maybe he'd be different if he felt supported in his life to be his authentic self. But he's an abuser and he's not going to find peace and heal in one person accepting his apology. I really wanted him to walk into that art exhibit (although I read Solitaire so I kinda knew he wouldn't). I also think it was interesting to show how both Darcy and Ben have parents that aren't supportive but Darcy was able to find a place of love and support in her community and how Ben rejects that.
Sam
2023-08-26 17:11:17 +0000 UTCKinda makes me think if Ben is just gonna suffer in silence, marry a girl, have kids, and basically have a straight life.
Logan de Hoyos
2023-08-26 17:08:13 +0000 UTCI’m the same Claire , I don’t have anybody to share my love for these characters. That’s why I love Josh and Alex combined with Heartstopper - perfect ! X
Lynn0816
2023-08-26 17:05:50 +0000 UTChand up for tori being awesome. darcy's mum can do one and leave, your content is great as usual thanks.
indigo
2023-08-26 17:03:30 +0000 UTCFirst how, Alex, how dare you forget about the greatest mom in the history of moms, Olivia Coleman. She's such a great Ally and I really do hope we see a bunch more of her in Season 3 and subsequent seasons. I really do hope that she lets Charlie come along on their summer Holiday. I absolutely love Tori, she is such a great sister to Charlie always looking out for him which is nice to have especially if you don't have understanding parents and to have someone at home that will look out for you. Also I think you missed it, as did I my first time round watching, but after that stairway scene with Tori and David, as the Spring Family is leaving and Charlie and his mom are talking you can faintly hear in the background Tori telling Nick "Your brother's a Prick" to which Nick replies "don't worry he's always been like that". I think that's important to show because Tori is kinda letting Nick know please keep Charlie safe from David (cause Charlie doesn't need anymore negativity in his life). Great reaction as always and I can't wait for your Finale reaction, hope you guys dress up for prom.
Logan de Hoyos
2023-08-26 17:03:23 +0000 UTCI think this was one of the best analyses of this episode I’ve seen. Particularly your takes on the Ben-Charlie scene and Nick’s family. You guys really dig into the layers of this show. Re: your question about why Nick looked upset at the beginning. You may catch this in editing, but he zoomed into Charlie’s plate and noticed it was still full (everyone else was done, so presumably the picture was taken at the end of dinner).
Kat
2023-08-26 16:50:16 +0000 UTCI love James so much. It had to hurt when Isaac told him he didn’t share his feelings but he chose to respond with kindness. 🥲
Jamie Schmidt
2023-08-26 16:45:24 +0000 UTCOhohoh he forgot about Olivia Colman…
Marion Susini
2023-08-26 16:42:09 +0000 UTCI am the first in the Ben Hope hate club, and Charlie is absolutely right, he doesn't need to forgive Ben, but man...that scene with him stepping away from the rainbow broke my heart. The whole idea of it, and the acting, was amazing!
Laura S.
2023-08-26 16:40:05 +0000 UTCOne of the best and most important episodes of the series in my opinion. These last two episodes for that matter! So important.
Dani
2023-08-26 16:35:49 +0000 UTCI'm so enjoying these videos, thank you. I have no-one to talk about Heartstopper with, but it's like having a wonderful group of friends next to you on the settee! I know that there are still many challenges ahead for these characters, but I think we can trust the cast and film-makers to continue to focus on hope and friendship as the way out. Can't wait to see what you make of prom, and all the wonderful developments therein. Love you both xx
Claire Donovan
2023-08-26 16:29:11 +0000 UTCI love how everyone was chipping in for Darcys prom outfit, and I love Elles excibition piece too, like showing her friends as her safe place so to speak. Nick standing up to his dad and especially his brother was so great, kinda dramatic in the same way as Emogin standing up to Ben, but it had to be done. The same with the Ben and Charlie scene, he had to speak up, and I can understand his anger because of how Ben treated him. When I first saw this episode, I was thinking, that even though I really do not like Ben, I just hope, he is not gonna hurt himself, because it kinda felt like(at least to me), it could lead to that(if he didn't just continue to be a jerk), if he didn't deal with his problems in the right way/get propper help. I think in the start of the episode Nick was sad about Charlies eating disorder, because he was the only one on the picture from the restaurant with what looked like a full plate. And yes it's sweet, that his friends wanted it to work out between Isaac and James, but James took it quite well, even if you could hear a bit of sadness in his voice, he was coming to terms with it, and yes Isaac was right in what he said to his friends, even if it came out a bit aggressive; you don't always need romance to have a good life. And that relief on Isaacs face after talking to that guy at the excibition was so nice, because he found an important part of himself in that moment.
Sara Nissen
2023-08-26 16:29:10 +0000 UTCI just love you guys.
jennifer
2023-08-26 16:26:07 +0000 UTCExcellent episode, your comments resonated with me so much. Thank you Alex and Josh
steve johnson
2023-08-26 16:22:38 +0000 UTCabsolutely loved this reaction and commentary. what you say has so much importance and it's important for people to hear. the only sad thing about ben not being in future seasons is that the actor (sebastian croft) is no longer part of the show :\ he's extremely different to ben in real life.. but i'm sure you already know that.
LM-Entertainment Australia
2023-08-26 16:21:04 +0000 UTCthis is one of my favourite episodes for sure, there are just so many amazing scenes and talks that happened between the characters!!! i just love the scene of isaac at the art exhibition and how he got to have his own "heartstopper moment" when the animated leaf flew around him as he listened to the other person talk about being aroace. it's such a freeing moment to have the realisation of who you are or who you could possibly be. i still remember when it finally clicked that i'm bisexual and the joy i felt at that moment. it was AMAZING and i seriously don't even know what i would be like if i was somehow still in denial and i don't even want to :)
Ines Koivisto
2023-08-26 16:15:11 +0000 UTCEven worse than when he kept saying Mr Ayoade last episode 😂
Suze
2023-08-26 16:13:17 +0000 UTCI just wrote pretty much the same about Ben! I wanted to add to your comment about Jane being protective of Charlie. I thought that was sweet at first too but then a second later I kind of scoffed and thought, ‘how would you know, you don’t go and see him play’ because from the books I just can’t find common ground with her.
Suze
2023-08-26 16:12:20 +0000 UTCI was really pleased that Ben didn’t get an easy resolution. The writing is far too good for that. I do hope he sorts himself out but the way we see him trigger Charlie so much means that we can’t forget how much he damaged him. I found it interesting to see how Ben hadn’t even realised what he’d done to Charlie. We’d already seen him tell Nick that the sexual assault was a ‘misunderstanding’ but when Charlie mentions their first kiss and Ben smiles, the way his face changes when he realises he didn’t have Charlie’s consent is really subtle but powerful.
Suze
2023-08-26 16:10:23 +0000 UTCOne of my favorite episodes of the season, two of my favorite scenes. Excellent reaction video. So happy to get your take on the Ben and dinner scenes and you didn't miss any of it. That apology scene with Ben was acted so well by both Joe and Sebastian. When he began his apology I think he felt he was being sincere, it just wasn't thought through from any perspective but his own. Even then he failed to see how he hurt Charlie. "I really liked you, if I had just had more time." "I want to be like you two, but my parents would never accept who I really am." "I wanted something good. You were something good." I, I, I... The little smiles on Ben's face as he slowly got out what he was saying showed us that he thought he was doing a good thing. Then when Charlie said, "Do you remember the first time you kissed me?" and Ben smiled as he thought of it. That smile vanished in seconds when Charlie continued and he realized Charlie was not having it. You could tell that Charlie genuinely does hope that Ben becomes a better person. Look at his face when Ben says his parents would never accept him. His response to Ben's apology was not hateful or bitter, just honest. I'm happy Ben didn't get a full redemption scene and we got to hear a little bit more about what made him like this. I think Charlie wants Ben to have a happy life, that is just in his nature...he just doesn't want it to progress in his orbit. Ben stepping away from the rainbow wave was a moment. I had an audible "Awwww" moment. Poor lad. Loved the dinner scene. First, I know you both said you hate awkward dinner scenes, not me! I'd have sat there eating up that drama and asked for seconds and an extra dessert. LOL! That scene was so good. Your thoughts on it were perfect so I'll only add one thing. When Nick said he played rugby with Charlie and then his dad said, "Oh, you play rugby, Charlie?" then Charlie scoffs and says, "I'm not very good." I liked the protective expression his mother, Jane, made. That motherly, 'that's not true, don't be so hard on yourself' look mothers give.
Mike
2023-08-26 16:06:16 +0000 UTCthankyou!!!!!!!!!!!
charlie
2023-08-26 16:03:34 +0000 UTCI hope that Ben does find a way to become comfortable with himself and to not harm all that he touches. But, he should do it in a new place. People like him are part of the community but their story is not this story.
Sunil
2023-08-26 16:02:21 +0000 UTCI loved this, so, so much! Please try to keep in as much of your commentary as possible; even if it is a longer video! I think we would all love to see a longer video to be able to hear more commentary from you! What you have to say, is so important and needed! I adore you guys, your hearts and your content! 💕💕💕💕❤️❤️❤️❤️xxxxooooo
Literally Natalie
2023-08-26 15:57:51 +0000 UTCHahaha oops, sowy!🤣😬
A Story Worth Telling
2023-08-26 15:49:49 +0000 UTCBen physically assaulted Charlie in the novels and did much more damage than is shown . Sometimes sorry isn’t enough
D
2023-08-26 15:39:58 +0000 UTCAlex naughty step now for forgetting Olivia
steve johnson
2023-08-26 15:35:52 +0000 UTCIn the beginning when you asked why Nick looked sad, it was because he zoomed into the picture and noticed that Charlie's plate was the only one still full
Emi
2023-08-26 15:35:20 +0000 UTCYes, wear prom outfits!!
Wildallie Diaz
2023-08-26 15:33:47 +0000 UTCDeffo one of the best episodes this season I loved it. So excited for the finale. This season has really cemented heartstopper as one of my fav shows ever. ❤️
rachael
2023-08-26 15:33:36 +0000 UTCYou think 7 was intense. Wait until the next one. It might be wise to have some tissues to hand.
Pip
2023-08-26 15:24:53 +0000 UTCThat’s perfect!
Diane Furlong
2023-08-26 15:14:00 +0000 UTCOoh I’ll be watching this evening when I’m home from work. Not one of my favorite episodes but it’s necessary. Thanks guys
Diane Furlong
2023-08-26 15:13:35 +0000 UTCYay!! 😊 There's so much happening in this episode. Can't wait to hear what you think. I'm especially looking forward to one scene involving a foot and some equipment for communication ❤️
Stian Kristoffersen
2023-08-26 15:08:55 +0000 UTCThis ep provides so much payoff IYKYK 🥹😏
Michael D
2023-08-26 15:03:45 +0000 UTCThat top looks cute Alex 😊
George Harrison-Webb
2023-08-26 15:02:34 +0000 UTCFinally 💖💖
Prinsassy
2023-08-26 15:02:05 +0000 UTC
