"'Vampire Diaries' Special Liaisons"

By Chelsey Willis

In an episode titled “Dangerous Liaisons,” one would expect deceit, betrayal, revenge, lust and romance among beautifully dressed characters set against a lavish backdrop. Director Chris Grismer and writer Caroline Dries deliver on all accounts in the latest episode of The CW’s supernatural drama, The Vampire Diaries, which has the main characters attending a ball hosted by the Originals, the oldest and most dangerous vampires. There’s a lot to digest in this episode so it’s one not to be missed. While the number of characters might confuse new viewers, it’s a great introductory episode to a show that’s experiencing a creative high.

Based on the book series by L.J. Smith, The Vampire Diaries originated as a simple story about a human girl tangled in the “lives” of two feuding vampire brothers. Over three seasons, it transitioned into a more complex show with more inventive storytelling and characters that continually grow and change. Never a family-friendly show, it’s taken on an even darker, edgier tone that began last season with the arrival of the first Original. Combined, these factors demand a lot from the show’s viewers, but the high level of creativity involved makes watching it a pleasure rather than a headache.

Humans knowingly rub elbows with vampires, werewolves, witches and a few other supernatural beings. Every character and every plotline help to explain the show’s intricately detailed folklore. Nothing is ever random. This show not only tells you the what, but also explains the how and why. It also doesn’t take itself too serious. With Kevin Williamson (Dawson’s Creek, Scream) at the helm, the show nicely mixes fast-paced, witty dialogue and pop culture with big drama, romance and bloody violence. In other words, this isn’t Twilight: The TV Show. Here, vampires actually feed on humans and rip out their hearts, but we still like them.

“Dangerous Liaisons” is the follow-up to last week’s high-drama episode that ended with the bombshell that Esther (Alice Davis), the Originals’ mother and creator had returned. Thought to be murdered by her son, Esther—the original witch—returned not to seek revenge, but to reunite her family. The ball marks their homecoming celebration and everyone in Mystic Falls is invited. Even Matt (Zach Roerig), the show’s token “normal” guy receives an invitation, but it’s clear that after three seasons, the writers still don’t know what to do with the character.

Of special interest to Esther is Elena (Nina Dobrev) whose bloodline is an essential element of the Originals’ backstory. Esther used the blood of Elena’s ancestor when she created vampires. However, Esther’s motives may not be as they appear which arouses suspicion from vampire brothers—and Elena’s suitors—Damon (Ian Somerhalder) and Stefan (Paul Wesley) Salvatore. What follows is a series of events that lays the foundation for the remainder of the season. The episode also explores the shifting dynamics between Damon, Stefan and Elena which began earlier this season when Stefan turned off his humanity—a vampire’s greatest weakness.

Having Stefan’s humanity removed was a smart move by the writers. It brought out Stefan’s dark side (something Wesley clearly enjoys portraying) and forced Elena to grow a backbone. It also allowed Damon to worry about someone other than himself. More importantly, it re-energized the show’s central love story as it pushed Damon and Elena closer together. “Dangerous Liaisons” not only beautifully captures this newfound dynamic, but also turns it on its head when two characters make big emotional breakthroughs.

One of the most surprising developments of the season is the budding friendship between Klaus (Joseph Morgan) and Caroline (Candice Accola) which is front and center in the episode. It’s a relationship that shouldn’t work—Klaus is an Original who destroyed the people closest to Caroline. Yet it does. For weeks, Morgan has chipped away at his character’s tough exterior revealing an insecure, lonely guy underneath which we see again in this episode. Caroline has also grown emotionally after embracing her new life as a vampire. Stronger and self-assured, Caroline has a way of bringing out Klaus’s humanity. It’s a testimony to the writers and actors that we believe (and maybe even root for) this coupling.

The Vampire Diaries specializes in spectacle and the cast and crew deliver in “Dangerous Liaisons,” one of the biggest episodes to date. With the exception of a few characters, the entire cast is featured, but the Originals steal the show. Their presence means trouble for everyone, especially the Salvatore brothers who remain the heart of the show. Questions are answered, secrets are revealed and lies are exposed. Now with the last of the Originals introduced, the season’s next chapter can truly begin and “Dangerous Liaisons” is the kick off to what is sure to be one big thrill ride.