Fast forward 28 years to modern Boston where bail bondswoman Emma Swan (Morrison) is tracked down by 10-year old Henry, a boy she gave up for adoption when he was a newborn. Announcing that she is the one who will save Storybrooke’s storybook characters, if not the entire world, Henry wants Emma to accompany him home to Maine. Needless to say, Emma is a bit skeptical, but goes along, only to find that Henry is the adopted son of the town’s mayor Regina.
The pilot episode tells the dual tales of Emma’s birth and how she became separated from her parents—but also how in 2011, she begins to follow the destiny that has long been hers. And it does it with wonderful production values and some fine performances.
The episode flies by, as you start to wonder about the alter egos of familiar fairy tale characters. What motivates Regina, who is of course, the Evil Queen?
Why would she have adopted Henry? Is it a matter of keeping your enemies closer, or is there something else driving her? And what about Rumpelstiltskin, whose evil is at least evident in the guise of Storybrooke's richest man Mr. Gold? If he is so nasty, what would have motivated him back in the forest to warn Snow White and the prince about their child?
Once Upon a Time has great promise. It has a little of everything from adventure to character drama thrown in with the fantasy and mystery. I look forward to spending my Sunday evenings watching things unfold in Storybrooke!
After Sunday’s episode, stop by Blogcritics to participate in a LiveChat event to discuss not only Once Upon a Time, but the entire new fall season!
Article comments
1 - Lisa
Thanks for another great interview. Looking forward to watching tonight.
2 - angelcat2865
Watched the pilot on line and so far the series looks very promising.
3 - Barbara Barnett
Hi Lisa--Glad you liked the interview :)
Angelcat--Yes, it does.
You should both come back tonight and join in on the LiveChat!
4 - madfashionista
thank you for the review! I can't wait to see it. So happy for JM that she is starring in what looks to be a hit show.
5 - Barbara Barnett
I hope this is a hit for her!