The fourth episode, like number three, spells E-M-M-Y for Kristin Bauer van Straten, whose maternal relationship with baby-vamp, Tara, has almost
recreated her more cynical, pragmatic character into something more…well, human. Pam’s relationship with Eric is repaired but he still releases her given he has an auto-stake attached to his chest and could die at the whim of the Vampire Authority any moment. HBO’s adaptation of Charlaine Harris’ novels vary from the original books, like with Tara being turned into a vampire this season, but it’s clear that the ancient Viking-vamp isn’t going anywhere. And yet, the scene between Eric and Pam—as a vampire-parent and child—discussing how Tara is now their progeny and future, is very touching.
Bauer van Straten is truly able to show her acting prowess this season; as a human, the character of Pam was shrewd,
understanding very clearly where her place was in society. A poor, single woman at the turn of the twentieth century, Pam had few choices. Marry an equally poor man who might love her but might not, or, use her beauty to secure her future in the only way poor, single women could: through prostitution. It’s still that way today, too. Very few of the women in the porn industry come from wealthy backgrounds; though prostitution is now illegal, it’s a thriving business filled with people who “choose” the job because their life-choices are limited. Like Pam.
And though marriage seems like a better alternative, it was far from equal prior to the passing of the 19th amendment in 1920. Even then, it took decades more before marriage (and divorce) law reflected the respect all human beings deserve but women didn’t receive. All of this social history is reflected in Bauer van Straten’s performance. Pam’s not heartless or cold; she’s just from a different era.
In the meantime, her maker is dealing with his own struggles. Eric and Bill are freed by the Authority on the condition that they retrieve Russell Edgington. The auto-stakes strapped to their chests can be activated at the touch of a fingerprint on a touchscreen. Yes, there is an app for that. The two want to enlist Sookie’s help but come upon Sookie seducing Alcide. Eric
takes it in stride but Bill is clearly hurt, which is typical with his selfish persona. Bill just had sex with Salome in episode three. Do what I say, not what I did? Um, okay Bill. Maybe the auto-stake will get triggered by accident? Not going to happen, but a girl can dream.
Speaking of Sookie, after Lafayette’s demon failed to kill her, which was after she confessed her many crimes to her brother, she heads back home to get drunk. Not something we’ve seen from Sookie before. And when Alcide
shows up, the audience gets a real treat: Sookie and the hunky (magical) werewolf get romantic. Finally! Every supernatural being within 100 miles wants Sookie. And though we’re hopeful that Alan Ball & Co. haven’t forgotten about the were-tiger, Quinn, it does look as though the supe-world has been simplified for television. More hot scenes with Joe Manganiello and Anna Paquin? Yes, please. Stay tuned!!!
Jason and Andy get invited out for a night on the town by the local hand-in-your-pocket judge. The limo is full of beautiful girls, too beautiful. Their destination turns out to be part of faery land, but apparently, the ill-time effects Sookie faced last season don’t exist anymore. Convenient. That is, until Jason and Andy get thrown out. Oops. An even bigger "oops" is what happens next. Are Jason and Andy dead at the hands of a couple of leather-clad faeries? Of course not! But they are going to have one hell of a hangover….
The reappearance of Hadley, cousin to Sookie and Jason, wasn’t as clever as it could have been. In the books, Hadley becomes vampire and is eventually killed. Now, she gets to wander around a faery night club serving drinks. If I were Hadley, I’d prefer death.
Sam Trammell is one of the best actors on a show full of amazing talent. I love his character; in many ways, it’s Sam Merlotte who grounds the entire storyline. His frank assessment of his bar food was refreshing in episode 4: When asked what he might recommend from his own menu, he said, “Honestly, nothing.” You’re awesome, Sam! But what wasn’t awesome was finding his two shifter-pals shot dead in the head. Is it the werewolves? The vamps? Or maybe someone from Sam’s past? I can’t reveal the answer. But I can tell you it’s going to get good. Sam is a nice guy, but if you back him into a corner, he's a real *cough, cough* animal.
The Vampire Authority seems to be having a little meltdown, as seen in the picture insert with Chris Meloni. When you begin torturing and killing your own chancellors, it doesn’t bode well for the future of your organization. Look for more surprises from Salome and Christopher Heyerdahl. Things are about to get even bloodier.
And poor Terry. Hasn’t he been through enough? Nope. “The Evil” is coming…and that roof is on fire! Actually, TRUE BLOOD SEASON FIVE is on fire. There’s so many twists and turns, you never know what’s going to happen next. Though TRUE BLOOD & PHILOSOPHY is a good place to find answers, available in multiple languages at all major book retailers worldwide, including Amazon and iTunes!
Tune in again next week for more TRUE BLOOD reviews!!! Until then, stay thirsty, Vampirazzi….