You could have pulled up the whole album and let it roll naturally into "Baby I'm a Star" for Lestat's return lol.
Eboe Thrasher
2025-10-03 19:39:56 +0000 UTC
*spoiler in case someone from the future is viewing*
.
There are so many scenes I cry at when I watch this episode over. The whole scene of Lestat and Louis arguing before turning Claudia, Lestat's apology, and Claudias and Madeleins death. GOSH it's so painful. I think of their future and their short time lived together. The only solace I have is that she had found her person and died knowing that person loved and chose her.
Mcryy
2025-04-18 10:04:14 +0000 UTC
Every time you react so strongly to something, I get so excited to see your reaction to the truths later on.
Also "Armand fix your fucking face and tell us the story" LMFAO these are the reacts I live for.
Mcryy
2025-04-18 09:55:04 +0000 UTC
Re: Lestat blaming Louis for "come to me". It is definitely not fair of Lestat to say that Louis is the one who chased him, and I think it could go either way on how scripted the lines were, but I think the kernel of truth is that Lestat can read Louis' mind and see that Louis is yearning for him the entire year that they are friends but refusing to act on it, which must have been maddening, and made him calling out to Louis feel like a response to Louis' true feelings. Of course, in reality Louis has no idea Lestat can read his mind and it's grossly unfair to blame him for his thoughts. I can see it either being scripted or being Lestat lashing in his typical contrary way.
I love Claudia's final speech to the audience, and it is fully in character for her, but also (to be a member of the inferior species her for a moment) I blame all the vampires there, not the audience. They think they're at a play! However, I do like to imagine (and this is not a spoiler or anything, just my own thought) that maybe one day someone researches who was at the play and they discover that they all died soon afterwards in mysterious circumstances because Claudia really did get her revenge from the grave.
Leticia
2024-11-27 14:40:39 +0000 UTC
“my client Lestat” lmaoo he did nothing wrong your honor!!
elena
2024-11-24 22:51:39 +0000 UTC
🙏🏿♥️
Raymond Walker
2024-11-24 22:26:16 +0000 UTC
As someone living in Minneapolis, I am *here* for the Prince choice 🙌🏻
Katie Bentley
2024-11-24 22:09:59 +0000 UTC
the scene where he chokes claudia after she tries to get him to burn lestats body is so slight (which is obviously because he was trying to repress it) that i kind of forget it even happened..
isa ‹3
2024-11-22 07:31:04 +0000 UTC
Hello my dears,
I came across a short video on Lestat's perspective on YouTube today. (4 min). It's simple but ingenious: the telepathic conversation between Claudia and Louis was cut out of the chess episode of episode 1.7 so that you can see the situation as Lestat must have experienced it. It's oppressive: the silence and the looks on Claudia and Louis' faces. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IxuJd5VAZqg
It's just a pity that the music wasn't added in between in the beginning, as that would make it seem more natural because of the radio.
Myra
2024-11-16 20:03:25 +0000 UTC
This is my favourite episode of the entire series. It hurts like hell but at the same time, as you said, it makes you reconsider some of your opinions, the drama is draming, the script is scripting, the actors are acting, everything is perfect.
Mary
2024-11-14 23:37:32 +0000 UTC
Well I'm late to this party, but I'm here.
1. Excellent song choice
2. Thank you for speaking on the fact that no they are not saints, but they are not devils either. Morally gray characters ftw.
3. Anne Rice always said that Louis is the main character because she was Louis, he is the avatar of her sorrow. I love that Jacob's version of Louis has been so nuanced and layered and that you really see him. It makes me happy.
4. Anne lost a daughter at a very young age and Interview was her way of processing that grief. Claudia was always doomed by the narrative because she was a reflection of Anne's grief.
5. I know you are mad at Lestat and Armand, but I still fuck with both of them to the bitter end.
6. Welcome back, missed ya.
Aquielle
2024-11-14 21:27:00 +0000 UTC
And another thing that pisses me off about Santiago’s mocking— he’s a pitch perfect mimic. He could’ve read that entry in Claudia’s actual voice if he wanted to.
Jessica
2024-11-13 18:35:25 +0000 UTC
You're welcome Nicole I'm glad you're enjoying your time here with the fam ♥️🌮
Raymond Walker
2024-11-13 15:36:11 +0000 UTC
There's so, so much I want to say, but feel like this episode and episode 8 are too connected.
Nicole Soza
2024-11-13 14:19:42 +0000 UTC
Lol, I love "my client Lestat"
Nicole Soza
2024-11-13 14:09:41 +0000 UTC
Taco, I love Prince and that's one of my favorite songs by him and you picking it for this episode was *chef's kiss*. You are the most perceptive and thoughtful reactor. Watching you react to this episode made me teary-eyed even though I've already seen it! you also made me laugh, too. Thank you for all that you do!
Nicole Soza
2024-11-13 14:05:17 +0000 UTC
At last, I'm here! This episode is stunning—I knew you'd enjoy the retellings as much as I did back then 😭 they truly put things into perspective. Louis was never an angel, and Lestat isn’t the devil. As Santiago says, they’re monsters—imagine human traumas and emotional issues multiplied by a thousand. As for Armand... I see it from the angle that Louis doesn’t know how to be alone. Though he is independent, as you mentioned in another episode, he likes doing his own thing but with someone around in the background. That someone is Armand, I suppose. After all, he did save his life... I know many people mention that he or Lestat could’ve saved Claudia too. I just want to share my opinion: I think sometimes, as viewers, we misunderstand vampire powers. They aren’t infinitely powerful, not even Armand or Lestat. Remember when Lestat forced all those soldiers out of the house with his powers? He was completely drained, even bleeding from the strain... And those were just a handful of soldiers... So imagine the power a vampire would need to save all three. I don’t think it’s as easy as we might see it from here... Just my opinion. It’s easy for us to say “do something!” And I get it because I said the same 😂 This episode is definitely in my top 3. I also find it fascinating how this episode shows us who Claudia truly is—brave, strong, fierce, and headstrong 😂. Lestat is breaking down, begging Louis for forgiveness and crying his heart out, and Claudia’s like: “don’t believe him.” Like, come on, Claudia hahahaha. I know we’re always so understanding with Claudia, but that’s also something I think she wouldn’t like. We’re more understanding because we pity her, because she didn’t choose to be a vampire and, let’s admit it, like Louis, we find it hard to take off the glasses and see her as an adult rather than a child. Claudia is more like Lestat than anyone; give Claudia all the traumas and experiences that Lestat went through... and I can just imagine Claudia acting very similarly to him 😂. It also reminded me of when, in the first season, Lestat was trying to yield and compromise to get along with them, and Claudia didn’t give him a single chance. Clearly influenced indirectly by Louis, Louis and Claudia have always reinforced each other’s view of Lestat. So, it’s been incredible to see here, the version of what really happened. And I say it like that because, as Lestat said, “call me a dog, but an honest dog.” I don’t think Lestat has any reason to lie about what happened—it would be out of character for him. Anyway, all so traumatic; no matter how many times I watch it, I’ll never get over Claudia and Madelaine’s deaths. I love them so much 😭 and I can’t wait for you to watch the final episode! Also, I LOVE Prince, and the song you chose was perfect! We missed you, Taco! 💌
Victoria
2024-11-13 12:05:35 +0000 UTC
And it was so heartbreaking that she nodded to Madeleine to accept the offer and save her own life. You could tell from the look on Claudia's face that she prepared herself to hear Madeleine say yes to the coven. That Madeleine chose her after Claudia gave her permission to join the coven makes the whole scene even more beautiful .
Myra
2024-11-13 10:37:06 +0000 UTC
Unfortunatelly not all questions are answered. For me, some remain still unanswered. And since I am assume they will also split the next book into two seasons, I am afraid we won't get answers until season four. 😭 I don't know how I am going to hold out until then. 😞
Myra
2024-11-13 10:25:56 +0000 UTC
need your reaction to episode 8 and all the behind-the-scenes and interviews NOWWWW it's Killing me
lo !!
2024-11-13 05:44:16 +0000 UTC
You reactions are everything and had me dying at times. I wish Claudia would've called it a lynching rather than a stoning. That was a memorable thought/moment of disappointment when I first watched this. Other reaction videos pointed out specific moments of antiblackness including the sexualization of Louis and them making him to be the predator. Santiago only referring to him as "the accused." Missed your IWTV videos and glad you enjoyed your time with your family and girlfriend!
darkparadise.
2024-11-13 04:36:54 +0000 UTC
Oh next episode’s gonna hit. Most of your questions will be answered. Trust the show-runners, they know what they’re setting you up for. And never forget there is exactly one POV from the main cast you have yet to see and it’s the POV that made this series blow up the way it did. Also? Are you gonna react to Season 3 Trailer when you finish? 👀
Cristal Marie
2024-11-13 01:36:42 +0000 UTC
I noticed something in this episode that I can't theorize until you watch next episode, but Im leaving this comment to remember to talk about it on episode 8. Honestly didn't see it until this go around, so Im excited to throw it out there when I can
Tiffers
2024-11-13 01:25:15 +0000 UTC
Ayo 🤣🤣 relax lol..take thst breath fam♥️ we need you with us
Raymond Walker
2024-11-13 00:35:16 +0000 UTC
i need episode 8 more than i need my next breath
j-l
2024-11-13 00:30:09 +0000 UTC
and also may I add 😂 it makes me understand all the more why Lestat felt such resentment for Claudia and vice versa. She always blamed Lestat (I feel) for her turning, she always held Louis closer to her. From Lestats POV I can see why that pissed him off haha Louis begged him to turn her, he pleaded on his knees and promised to never leave him ever if he did this. Yet Claudia forgives him, understands him, bonds with him? Maybe it’s my own toxicity speaking here but I get it 😂
Caitlin 🥀
2024-11-13 00:14:09 +0000 UTC
This episode is brutal! The themes of love, love lost and love sacrificed are prevalent from start to finish. The grief is palpable through the screen. One thing that made me appreciate this all the more is when Sam Reid was talking about how lestat was feeling in this moment- “here he is back in Paris, back on the stage with the coven and he suddenly realises that this is where Nicki died, this is where Louis and Claudia have come to die and I’ve build this. I made this” - there is trauma upon trauma to unpack in this episode alone! Also the scene revisits from the previous season but through Lestats eyes…left me floored!!! The turning of Claudia is horrifying, Louis’ pleas and begs to Lestat to turn Claudia as he desperately tries to cling to any form of redemption he can find and Lestat faced with an impossible decision of - turn her and forge a family that is doomed from the start or refuse and risk losing Louis and being left alone.
Caitlin 🥀
2024-11-13 00:08:30 +0000 UTC
Yes. To him and Madeleine after the "frags" scene and after Claudia stood up to ask "Can I say I'm sorry, too". And while they executed Claudia and Madeleine he was shivering. I think, something was going on there.
Myra
2024-11-12 23:33:03 +0000 UTC
Natasha!!♥️♥️ I was waiting for your comment 😊 glad to see you here..hope you've been well and I'm glad you enjoyed the reaction
Raymond Walker
2024-11-12 20:13:10 +0000 UTC
This episode is BRUTAL and watching it again through your eyes made me appreciate it even more. I am really looking forward to your finale reaction. I love Claudia and Madeleine
Ally
2024-11-12 19:20:33 +0000 UTC
Glad you're back on this. Your reaction to the re-told scenes was everything I thought it would be. Probably going to write an essay on the next one but too close to the end to say anything more right now.
Natasha
2024-11-12 19:15:40 +0000 UTC
Taco you gotta watch the nxt ep pretty pleaseee lol 😆
Elle
2024-11-12 18:49:35 +0000 UTC
I love that this show sends in one direction with feelings on characters and totally switching it and makes u see all of the perspectives of the relationships
deedra Mcconis
2024-11-12 17:29:12 +0000 UTC
One thing I hope you and Frank talk about on your recaps is how all three men: Louis, Armand,and Lestat, choked Claudia. I always see people talk how Louis was justified for beating Lestat for doing that because it abusive. But never say anything about Louis doing the same thing to her... making him abusive too. It's interesting...
Alisha
2024-11-12 17:00:55 +0000 UTC
Aaawww😥😥fr, with hindsight i probably would too
Raymond Walker
2024-11-12 15:16:05 +0000 UTC
Ngl, I started bawling when you played it 😭
B
2024-11-12 15:06:10 +0000 UTC
The rage is still fresh 🤣🤣 hey Mari🙏🏿🌹🌹
Raymond Walker
2024-11-12 14:40:09 +0000 UTC
Ohhhhhh hahahhas ok ok now alot of things are adding up 😅😅
Raymond Walker
2024-11-12 12:25:56 +0000 UTC
This is the hardest episode for me to watch. But seriously, i agree with the other people here. Watch season2 episode 8 now while your emotions are where they are. Its worth it. Amzing reactions as always.
Mari Thomas
2024-11-12 10:39:55 +0000 UTC
it's so heartbreaking how Claudia finally got what she wanted—to be someone's first choice—right before she died...
Aru
2024-11-12 09:31:59 +0000 UTC
i agree with you so much that these new renditions of scenes we thought we knew and understood chnage the context of so many scenes. lestat held resentment towards her, but as we can recall now, he also held resentment towards himself. he went again his own thoughts and judgement and turned claudia in order to keep Louis. i honestly think he did love her, but he knew what he had condemned claudia to, an immortal life of difficulty and fraught friction. i feel like so many scenes now make sense where we thought he was being harsh (which he was) but to him, he was trying to make sure he dug those ruthless survival instincts in her so that she could survive, because at the end of the day, she is his daughter. even when claudia reveals her plans and has lestat losing in the season 1 finals, lestat, for a moment there, looks proud.
another thing — all the silent looks lestat and louis threw at each other whenever it came to claudia now make so much sense too. it’s almost as if every time claudia was dealing with trouble or struggling, lestat would look at Louis with an expression that said “i told you so” whereas louis’ expression reflected guilt and denial. for so long, louis refused to take responsibility, but i am sooo glad that he did this episode. as you said, it really felt earned. louis’ development throughout this season: chef’s kiss. i have more to say on that but i’ll save it for the finale.
CLAUDIA :( MADELEINE :( it makes me so sad that they had to die bc of other people’s actions. they had forged a life for themselves and were finally happy, but then the one time they choose to visit louis, shit unfortunately hits the fan. it reminds me of Orpheus and Eurydice. claudia looked back, looked back towards louis and her complicated love for him, and in the end, it led to her demise. in my opinion, i do believe that louis tried so hard to do her justice, and tried to protect her in small ways in Paris, but in the end, the coven just got too damn sneaky and vengeful! louis should’ve just been honest and transparent with claudia, as you said, but it really goes back to him always seeing her as his daughter instead of a sister. even claudia clocks him in the cafe, he’ll always be “daddy Lou” to her.
this show really is all about the small details, and there is still more i want to say, but i’ll save it for the finale! gotta say that i missed your reaction videos and i’m glad you’re back with such insightful and nuanced commentary as always!
caroline
2024-11-12 08:09:16 +0000 UTC
Yeah well, I'm a flight attendant. 😂 But today is my free day so.... That means Taco day! I am ready!!!! ❤️🔥
Victoria
2024-11-12 08:03:58 +0000 UTC
So glad you are back! Great reaction! This episode left me with so many questions...Why did Lestat not do anything? Why did Lestat seem so out of it sometimes? When did Lestat arrive in Paris? Why did Armand say he could not prevent it? Oh well, I can't wait for your reaction to the next episode!
Moira Argent
2024-11-12 03:48:00 +0000 UTC
Fox, I think you should rewatch this episode but this time, pay attention to LESTAT.👀
Himindabank
2024-11-12 03:37:24 +0000 UTC
Pour one out for the homies, Claudia and Madeleine! Great reaction, as always. Can't wait to watch the season finale with you! I do hope you react to some of the behind-the-scenes and cast interviews with us afterward!
Layla
2024-11-12 03:32:25 +0000 UTC
I almost wish you had done Ep 7 and 8 back to back -- it hurts so much to just sit with the end of this episode. You continue to be one of the most perceptive of reactors, and I can't wait to see what you think of the finale!
Laurie Kyle
2024-11-12 03:22:40 +0000 UTC
Dude you are hojng to *LOVE* listening to the actors talk. They are a bunch of sweet, charming, irreverent goofballs and they are all so invested in their characters! Assad in particular is so silly, could not be further from his character and is just a delight 🥰 It is very obvious that they have a blast on set and are all very close friends at this point!
Amanda Winstead
2024-11-12 02:59:58 +0000 UTC
I fuck with Armand HEAVY but I ain't got time for the GAMES!! Tell 👏🏿me👏🏿 wtf👏🏿 happen👏🏿 play boy!! I will most definitely do those things for you all
Raymond Walker
2024-11-12 02:35:17 +0000 UTC
the season finale is gonna hit so good. can’t wait 😁
terrestrialbody
2024-11-12 02:21:05 +0000 UTC
1.The rocks are the same ones...fuuuuuuuukk smh that's insane.
2.She had the dress on 😭wtf
3. Ok we reconvene at a later date
4. 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 yes Amanda
5. Thank you and yes, painful asf
After episodes I got you 😊🙏🏿♥️
Raymond Walker
2024-11-12 02:14:16 +0000 UTC
i dont know if youd be interested in this but it would be cool if you wanted to react to the bts of this season, theyre at the end of each episode and also on the amc youtube channel :)
j-l
2024-11-12 02:09:35 +0000 UTC
I'm amazed you got through this without a tear! You are made of stronger stuff than I. I continue to be impressed by how astute your observations are and how nothing gets by you. I had to pause and laugh my ass off at "Armand fix your fucking face and tell us the story, motherfucker." You fuck with him but he is still a punk and a ho for sure 🤣🤣🤣 I cannot wait for the finale and I hope afterward you will react to the season 3 teaser (which does not really have any spoilers, it's mostly just vibes), the lyrics music video which a lot of reactors seem to miss, and maybe some bloopers, interviews, etc? I highly recommend Autumn Brown's interviews just for your own enjoyment even if you don't react to them; they are some of the longest and most relaxed ones you can find, everyone lets their hair down and are really hilarious and unfiltered in them. Almost there, Taco!
Amanda Winstead
2024-11-12 02:09:01 +0000 UTC
my girl was finally put first😭😭😭😭
j-l
2024-11-12 02:07:24 +0000 UTC
I love that you always held Louis accountable. Every YouTuber I watched ganged up on Lestat and it’s always poor Louis. He can be just as toxic as Lestat and he is definitely complicit in a lot of their issues. Also, I absolutely believe he told Lestat he would decapitate him and feed him to the lions because he said horrible things to Armand in s2e5 and threw Lestat’s biggest fear of being alone to his face in season 1. It’s like people forget that he was a pimp exploiting women who pulled a blade at his own brother not to look weak. Why people infantilize him so much is beyond me.
Helen
2024-11-12 02:04:57 +0000 UTC
Oh yeah, I just remembered there’s a few book plot points mentioned even tho is not a lot… who knows if the show runner will adapt THAT part he hinted at tho cos (do not read FoxTaco!!) Lestat drinking the blood of Jesus and meeting the devil is crazy for storytelling on tv idk if that works lmao
RÆY
2024-11-12 01:51:10 +0000 UTC
I also will say this about Sam, generally, is that he is sensitive to spoiling book plots for show-only fans.
Jessica
2024-11-12 01:47:46 +0000 UTC
"My coven is Claudia" =" I would die for you"😭😭😭😭😭
Raymond Walker
2024-11-12 01:36:53 +0000 UTC
Whew you cooking Fox!!! Ok this was an episode of the ages. So much to unpack. So many nuances. There’s always a divide in these episodes and with these characters. I actually love/hate them all for different reasons. I was so happy that Claudia did stand on business and she did have someone finally choose her 💕.
I couldn’t stand Santiago but Ben Daniel’s was amazing as Santiago. Of course all the acting was great. Sam Reid had me captivated on that stage. I love the writing especially in this episode. So much subtle details to explore.
I’m going to wait to untitle the finale to say more but I can’t wait.
Thank you for pushing out all this great content. My song choice for this episode was Damage by H.E.R. Oh have you checked out Jacob Anderson’s music. He’s really good. Definitely check it out. Time in a Tree is favorite song by him.
Partrice
2024-11-12 01:33:17 +0000 UTC
I’m a little desperate for the finale lol. Sam Reid is so passionate in that interview, you could tell he was dying to discuss the show in greater depth after spending nearly the entire show promotions silent to avoid spoilers.
RÆY
2024-11-12 01:32:41 +0000 UTC
Exactly i hope he doesnt wait too long to do 8 its worth it, so worth it to do right after 7 while the rage is still freah.
Mari Thomas
2024-11-12 01:29:24 +0000 UTC
Oh no Victoria I'm sorry lol..this is the second time I've caught you right before a flight lol
Raymond Walker
2024-11-12 01:27:02 +0000 UTC
Enjoy grab taco😊
Raymond Walker
2024-11-12 01:26:23 +0000 UTC
I am SO excited for you to watch this finale. You've been right about EVERYTHING. I wish I was watching for the first time with you.
The Existential Shrew
2024-11-12 01:25:38 +0000 UTC
This episode rips my heart to shreds everytime.
Mari Thomas
2024-11-12 01:24:23 +0000 UTC
Lol!! I am thinking the same.. its such an amazing episode.
Mari Thomas
2024-11-12 01:23:51 +0000 UTC
Also I’m sorry for asking this too fast but by when do you think you might have the finale out? I am eager to see the reaction for that but no worries I’ll wait patiently regardless. Also, Sam Reid had an incredible interview with Autumn Brown on this episode, it is about an hour long where you get to hear Sam yap about the episode and the characters. I would love for you to react to that eventually.
RÆY
2024-11-12 01:18:37 +0000 UTC
OKAY, finally finished the reaction. OMG it feels so good to be back.
Let me start with that final scene from S2E6, Lestat smoking a cigarette in front of mirrors, and according to the Cambridge Dictionary Smoke and Mirrors represent making others believe that something being done is true, when it is not. I believe that what we saw near the end of episode 6 and some things we saw in episode 7 is not what it looks like on the surface. For example, Lestat kept going off script. If he truly wanted Louis dead he wouldn’t need to go off script when he could just stick to it. At minute 1:15:50 Lestat is swaying, and that’s when I present to you one of the most popular fandom theories which is that Lestat might have been weak and could not save Claudia at the very end. There are other evidences throughout the episode that my client Lestat could "not prevent it” (just like Armand XD), some people on twitter posted screenshots of Lestat having bruises on his hands depending on who is telling the story and that he acts way off when the camera isn’t focused on him.
Okay, I’m done presenting my case in defense of Mr. Lestat de lioncourt de pointe du lac
OK but in all seriousness you are so right that they all failed Claudia. I remember watching this episode and crying so much.
RÆY
2024-11-12 01:11:39 +0000 UTC
I glad you enjoyed it Sam 🙏🏿♥️
Raymond Walker
2024-11-12 01:08:48 +0000 UTC
Now can I pick a good one for the Finale 😬😬...the pressure is on 😭😭😭
Raymond Walker
2024-11-12 01:06:06 +0000 UTC
It fits Madeline and Claudia too♥️😊
Raymond Walker
2024-11-12 00:42:43 +0000 UTC
Sorry about your hand that had to be awful🙏🏿♥️. I'm with you on everything you said. (Obviously you saw the reaction so you already know that but🤣🤣🤣 i just really love how you express your thoughts and your love for these characters.) You are directly responsible for my growth with Louis thank you for expressing how much you loved his character without it ever feeling like you're trying to force/guide me to have a similar opinion of him.
I can appreciate alot of his character flaws and strengths in ways I could not before , because of Sierra🙏🏿😊 thank you
Raymond Walker
2024-11-12 00:40:53 +0000 UTC
You did not disappoint! Loved experiencing this again with you 😀. If you can watch this episode without experiencing rage you are not invested.
Terri Matter
2024-11-12 00:34:16 +0000 UTC
That's actually a thought I had as well and keeps you from feeling so down about what happened to her..love that she went out swinging though
Raymond Walker
2024-11-12 00:31:12 +0000 UTC
I think about what each character wanted and how it was expressed in the story arc. Sad as Claudia's death was, she did get exactly what she wanted.
MJG Story Creation
2024-11-12 00:09:35 +0000 UTC
I have A LOT to say about this episode and it's unfortunate that just yesterday I unfortunately accidently slit my hand open with a knife and I have stitches making typing a lot very difficult so I will keep this as brief as I can.
I mainly wanna speak about the revisit on the fight scene because I think the responses to that are varied. There are a LOT of people who feel either vindicated with that scene or tricked in some way and they try to start picking apart this or that to build an image of the scenario that they can form a concrete opinion out of. I'm always glad for your more nuanced approach, because I'm guilty of the same. But that's the beauty of this show, we can have our opinions and take aways and (as long as they're not harmful) share them freely in a fandom space. Because the way I view the fight as it was revealed to have happened here; Lestat put his hands on Claudia, Louis rightfully gathered his ass up and ran his mouth 🤣, and then Lestat lost it which the show acknowledge as obviously not okay. But as fucked up as it is, I've always loved what it meant for Louis' character. Season 1 always made me feel like Louis was some battered husband (which after episode 5 he kinda was), who could do nothing in the face of Lestat's...everything. I think I, along with other viewers, fell into this expectation of Louis on the first watch as some sort of "perfect victim" to explain away all his choices. But he's not! He can be mean, nasty, selfish, proactive in defense of his loved ones, and he can be ready to match Lestat crazy for crazy. None of that takes away from his victim status and nor should it. Same way Lestat's abusive patterns and choices don't take away from his victim status and the trauma he's experienced that affects who he is. And the same can be said for Armand. These vampires are all distinct examples of how the cycles of abuse can play out.
And Claudia...justice for Claudia man her and Madeleine didn't deserve this. And it's so tough to rewatch sometimes knowing she's gonna die and everything she's experienced, every hardship and horror has been at the expense of these vampires who should've been there for her.
Everyone acted their asses off this episode and as painful as it is I love rewatching it! Cannot wait for the reaction to the finale though because holy shit...not ready.
sierra's reaction corner
2024-11-12 00:01:50 +0000 UTC
Song is absolutely perfect actually ❤️
The Existential Shrew
2024-11-11 23:45:16 +0000 UTC
I can’t take credit. Black women on Twitter did some WORK pointing it out after this episode. It’s really interesting to see where Lestat tries to humanize Louis when Santiago presses hard on the stereotypes. And I think it also loops back to Daniel’s disbelieving line earlier in the season about there being no racism in 1940s France and Louis saying that’s not what he meant, because there clearly was.
Jessica
2024-11-11 23:31:05 +0000 UTC
the way I ran here! I've been looking forward to your reaction since this is my favorite episode and you did not disappoint! Can't wait to see what you think of the finale :)
sam
2024-11-11 23:30:35 +0000 UTC
Love love love everything you pointed out here!
sierra's reaction corner
2024-11-11 23:24:56 +0000 UTC
Also please revisit the Baby Lu play and tell me that it literally wasn’t just the coven saying verbatim what they wanted to do. So many pieces of it aren’t even foreshadowing the trial outcome, but taunting Louis and Claudia to figure it out. Pausing with Lu in the light of the window, nailing Baby Lu to the stage, dropping her from an immense height to die.
That part feels most like taunting Louis, about Paul’s suicide and Lestat dropping him.
And I think Claudia figures it out— telling the audience to follow the bouncing ball out the window (to their deaths), and then singing that stupid song to her executioners.
I could talk about this episode and how it recontextualizes everything for hours, no joke.
Jessica
2024-11-11 23:22:18 +0000 UTC
I cannot wait to see you react to the next episode 🤓😩
Tara M
2024-11-11 23:22:11 +0000 UTC
Omg your song choice! 🤌🏻
Holly Robertson
2024-11-11 23:18:52 +0000 UTC
Hey, so TW for racism. I'd love for you and Frank to revisit the trial episode after watching the finale. There's a lot of “subtle” racism at play that's easy to miss when we're so invested in the outcome.
Louis described them as props in the play, not even characters. They were "nailed" to the floor—a detail foreshadowed in the Baby Lu play when her nanny nails her feet to the stage. The tendon cutting is part of South Carolina statutes as punishment for fugitive slaves.
You observed that Lestat isn't attacking Louis as harshly as Santiago—Santiago is straight up amplifying negative stereotypes about Black men, portraying Louis to the white audience as disreputable, cold, and violent. White Lestat says how Louis "accosted" him, with Louis’s "eyes sliding down me," stalking him until he gave in, further emphasizing awful sexual stereotypes about mixed race relationships usually reserved for white women.
Madeline is afforded the kindness of being sedated throughout the ordeal and gently escorted back to her seat. Likely because the audience could empathize too strongly with one of their own being manhandled in the same manner as Claudia.
Lestat isn't sentenced for his crimes, despite his attempts to convince the audience he should be.
Santiago mocking Claudia’s accent as he reads her diaries.
The animated projection depicting Louis and Claudia as laughing demons or monsters, while Antoinette is shown lying in beds of flowers, and Lestat is portrayed as a soft-eyed, blond hero.
Even Louis’s desire not to eat people is rejected by the audience as funny, because it flies against the violent stereotypes and the animation shows him eating house pets (lots of cats).
Lastly how Claudia's use of the word "stoning" sucked the air out of the room. I'm puzzled why the show shied away from using "lynching" here, because thats what it feels like they wanted to say.
It was a sham trial where the white offenders weren’t punished at all (or offered a sentence other than death), designed to humiliate and kill the black characters.
It’s fucking crazy. It’s so deeply, odiously racist, and I don’t see many people breaking it down. Not that you or Frank have to, but I think you’d body this discussion.
Jessica
2024-11-11 23:18:13 +0000 UTC
its okay if you dont know what to say. hell in frank's he didn't say anything AT ALL. i could see it on his face just as I can see it on yours; shock, confusion, hurt, sadness, anger. you are mourning and we mourn with you. this was a hard episode lol buckle up for the remaining eps
Miki
2024-11-11 23:16:02 +0000 UTC
🤣🤣🤣🤣
Raymond Walker
2024-11-11 23:15:17 +0000 UTC
Deflation is a VERY common feeling after this episode though it’s in my top 3 favorite episodes. Claudia deserved so much more. Claudia and Madeleine deserved so much more. “My coven is Claudia” remains one of my all-time favorite lines.
There are so many things I want to comment after watching, but I fear the thoughts between episodes 7 & 8 are a cannon event.
A few notes of discussion (no spoilers):
1) the rocks in Louis’ coffin are the rocks he puts his feet in in the Dubai home.
2) the yellow dress Claudia is wearing this episode is the one we see Madeleine fitting her for in episode 4.
3) I really appreciated that you didn’t hop on villainizing Lestat for being there. I feel like a lot of people jump on him coming there to kill them and just latch on. (I feel like for a more detailed discussion, we will have to wait until after 8.)
4) I know you were a really big fan of Claudia’s play — and I got so geeked when you spent as much time as you did breaking it down. All to have her sing the song as a major f**k y’all at the end is just chef’s kiss to me.
5) You’re amazingly one of the only non-book reader reactors I’ve watched who clocked early on that Claudia was probably going to die. After seeing how Louis attempted to end things for himself in episode 5 (running out into the daylight)…just impeccable writing. And SO PAINFUL, thanks Rolin Jones.
Cannot wait for you to see episode 8, though I do not want this journey to end but ohhhhh the discussions we’ll have and that I’m so excited for. (Also, I’d recommend that you watch/react to the “after the episode” as it flows right after episode 8, but only a recommendation and not telling you how to run your reactions). Thank you for this Monday surprise treat! It gave what we knew it would give. 🤞🏻
Amanda Hill
2024-11-11 23:14:59 +0000 UTC
Episode 8. Now.
Vampgirl1978
2024-11-11 23:09:32 +0000 UTC
OMG I’m gonna go get dinner and then come back to watch!
RÆY
2024-11-11 23:00:20 +0000 UTC
yes, the opening sequence is meant to be fangs lol
xris037
2024-11-11 22:58:02 +0000 UTC
I'm betting that your rested eyes are gonna get a workout in this one 😭😭😭 Getting ready to watch this and already rabid for the next one. What has IWTV done to me??!
Amanda Winstead
2024-11-11 22:54:54 +0000 UTC
Loving your commentary, I laughed so hard at the “but I can see this”.
Amanda Hill
2024-11-11 22:31:36 +0000 UTC
If you liked the direction of this episode, Emma Freeman directs the ever loving HELL out Sam Reid in every episode of the Newsreader. I love that they pulled her for this episode.
Jessica
2024-11-11 22:08:32 +0000 UTC
I CAN'T BELIEVE I HAVE TO WAIT FOR SEEING THIS, I'm about to get into a plane, you are soooo wrong for doing this to me Taco!!!! 😭😭😭 (Actually I love this and I can't wait for seeing it tomorrow and to scream alongside you)
Victoria
2024-11-11 22:03:00 +0000 UTC
I meeaaann 🤷🏿♂️🤷🏿♂️it is what it is lol
Raymond Walker
2024-11-11 21:59:10 +0000 UTC
🌮🌮🌮FAMILY!!!
Raymond Walker
2024-11-11 21:58:49 +0000 UTC
So we all collectively ran here is what I’m gathering? Whattup fam 🌮
Amanda Hill
2024-11-11 21:44:42 +0000 UTC
You really said fuck peaky blinders, the goat is here
Edit: oh no. Not the “I feel great” literally at the title card.
Jessica
2024-11-11 21:44:41 +0000 UTC
Let's gooooooo
Laura Grace
2024-11-11 21:42:52 +0000 UTC
Deep breath!!
Ellen Owens
2024-11-11 21:41:38 +0000 UTC
I'm so excited to watch right now, thank you 🥰
Tara M
2024-11-11 21:41:08 +0000 UTC
WE’RE SO BACK
Sophie Heflebower
2024-11-11 21:40:44 +0000 UTC
oh my god oh my god oh my god. and i was just about to go to sleep too