Safe was probably the best episode yet, though some things were off to me. I should note that I like the "here's the deal" openings, and then the "previously on" part. It's provided good clarity for me so far. This episode was also good in that it provided some development to some characters who needed it, most notably Simon. It's a nice bond between he and his sister. River got a tad bit of development, but her mysteriousness still annoys me as does watching he act like a little kid, though it's nice to see her becoming a little more normal. A little was led on about Shepherd, which I'm excited to find out more about. Mal's dynamic kind of confuses me a bit, though. He's the rebellious yet noble do-right, yet he still had no problems leaving, without question, two people who were in need of protection? I understand if it was a matter of being hurried to save Shepherd, but it still seemed really out of character with what I've come to know thus far. I liked Jayne a lot in this episode too, if not just for the stealing and then returning of Simon's things.
The great things about this show have been the little things in their conversations. The small jokes, the side comments, and the daily goings on. It's witty with some heart, which is always enjoyable.
Character Rankings:
Mal - same old, though my perception of inconsistency in his actions threw me off a bit in this episode
Jayne - he's really improved by not doing too much. I like it.
Kaylee - I liked when she told Simon off, and she continues to be one of the more intriguing characters
Inara - practically nonexistent this episode, so she gets passed by stronger performances
Wash - practically nonexistent this episode, so he gets passed by stronger performances
Zoe - her exchange with Shepherd in the infirmary was sweet. I liked seeing that.
Simon - still a bit of a douche, but still likable. his "do anything for his sister" deal might provide some interesting storylines going forward
Shepherd - the door has been cracked open for him, but still not yet distinguished enough for me
River - still not getting much from her, but she's on her way I guess
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