Blacklanderz®Convos!
Outlander S7 Epi8 – Turning Points
Written by Luke Schelhaas | Directed by Joss Agnew
This conversation is between Blacklanderz® Margot, Jess H., and Bella. Arranged and edited by Vida.
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B: Outlander does battlefields so well. So detailed. It really transports you to the scene. When Claire came in, I had to shout, “That’s right Claire, save your man!” You gotta feel for the woman’s desperation in trying to feed her family but still she needs to go find a man that’s ACTUALLY dead!
M: So when are we going to find out what actually happened? Claire coming through saving Jamie once again. I love how she was ready to square up with the both of them using that sword!
JH: Claire has perfect timing, as usual!
B: Oh my goodness, I adore Jamie’s humor. It livens up any situation. Even when he’s in pain, he will find a way to make a joke. I love it!
That tickles, Sassenach.
M: Trauma evaluation time! I love it too Bella how he cracked a joke. Throwback to that time when Laoghaire shot him, and he wanted whisky and was staring at Claire with those puppy eyes while she was furious… like what is happening now.
JH: I guess Jamie’s been injured so much he has to make light of it at this point. And now his good hand has been nearly sliced off too!
B: After all these seasons, I never tire of these emotional touch points with Jamie and Claire. Their love is amazing, magnificent.
Claire’s reaction is so realistic too – angry at Jamie for putting himself in this situation but also profoundly relieved that he is alive.
The subject is you’re stupid hero complex.
You think I have nothing better to do than to trot
around after you, sticking pieces back on?
M: You know what? Yes, Jamie does indeed have a hero complex. I’d be mad too. It must be exhausting being this soldier’s wife.
JH: That’s definitely true about Jamie’s hero complex! Being married to him must be incredibly stressful.
Ah, ye’ve the tongue of a venomous shrew, Sassenach.
You’re a bonnie wee swordsman.
B: I didn’t know what that was at first. Then the camera turned, and I realized it was a boot left in the saddle. WOW, the battle was brutal!
M: Damn… we get to see what happened in this battle right?
JH: That bloody boot was so creepy! I guess someone is missing a foot/leg.
B: This scene reminds me of S1 where Claire had to stitch Jamie up and she literally put aside her bed-side manner and wasn’t gente at all. Her passive-aggressive way of getting back at him for getting hurt. I love it!
M: This hand injury looks serious! It’s stressing me out, I would have called an orthopedics consult ASAP. I can’t stop thinking about what nerves were slashed apart. Which hand was it that Black Jack massacred in S1?
JH: I love that Jamie immediately asks where Ian is, such a great Uncle! But I don’t envy Claire having to wait and see if both her husband and nephew will survive the battle.
B: Claire immediately knew what was on Jamie’s mind. His concern for William was there in his eyes.
They keep talking about Jamie and William meeting on the battlefield. I really hope that never happens.
M: There’s no way Jamie was fully focused on that battle. He must have been checking for William (Spawn) the whole time. I bet that’s why he got hurt.
JH: Yes it must have been possible for Jamie to watch his back while he’s out of his mind with worry for his son.
B: With this new season, I was really looking forward to the addition of Denny to the cast. It’s so nice to see Claire with a counterpart where they can identify with each other’s feelings and the difficulties of their profession.
I think that just helped ground the character as well, to know what was going on around him. The level of medicine at that time as well. It was so provincial compared to what it is now. But I think that’s why he’s so in awe of Claire because he doesn’t know that she’s from the future, but he just sees her as this amazingly accomplished woman.
M: I like this conversation with Denny and Claire. It’s rough losing a patient, especially when you have to move on to the next one like nothing happened and get back to work. You have to take care of yourself too and take some time to absorb it. It does take its toll, but it is worth it when you help others.
JH: I guess nothing can prepare you for battlefield medicine, even if you have a lot of experience. Claire is definitely a good person to give advice about this. She’s seen battles in two different centuries.
B: I had to re-watch this scene. Denny’s emotion is making me tear up.
Shows rarely ever talk about this part of being in battle; the weight of seeing all this death around them. Poor Denny, he needs comfort.
M: It’s also rough seeing how people are injured because of violence and trying to help find solutions or ‘fix it.’ It has to be hard to cope with sometimes.
JH: Quakers are definitely a unique group of people. I’m sure nothing has prepared Denny for seeing this level of violence, especially being a pacifist.
She becomes a mentor to Denny and she’s someone that he can turn to with his questions. I think a lot of his life, he’s been almost like a parent to Rachel as well as a brother and maybe he sort of felt like he has always had to have the answers.
Whereas now I think he doesn’t have the answers. Now his whole world has been turned upside down. It’s lovely that he has Claire that he can turn to and ask those hard questions.
The Hunters are a lovely, different take. They don’t believe in violence and they’re coming into the Fraser family, where violence follows them wherever they go.
B: Claire saved the last of her laudanum for Jamie. He’s gonna need it. She really does have to stitch him up all the time.
M: Remember when Jamie was running away from the idea of Claire cutting off his leg last season?
‘Take the leg and bury it, dinna tell me where.’ Now he’s out here saying you can chop something off, if she needs to. GROWTH.
JH: She must be sick of patching him up. He’s like a patchwork quilt to her at this point!
B: He is such a special kind of man. It’s why we all love him so much.
“You bloody man, I knew you’d make me cry.” I agree Claire, he makes us all so emotional.
M: She’s trying to be stern for him but there he goes again softening her up. Even in pain, he manages to say some poetic/Biblical stuff to have all of us swoon.
It seems that I, and a few others of Morgan’s company,
mind-when we entered the fray,
we broke the British charge.
Scattered ’em, it seems.
And Johnson’s company was behind us in the fight. If the charge had gone through, he’d have surely lost the company, he said.
It’s like the Bible. That bit where the – – Abraham bargains with the Lord for the cities of the plain. “Wilt Thou not destroy the city for the sake of 50 just men?
JH: Of course the king of men would be reciting the Bible before he passes out!
B: Claire is an amazing surgeon. She barely has any light and she’s able to sew in perfect stitches.
M: Those are some nice-looking stitches. I’m assuming his hand will be okay now. How lucky is Jamie to have a surgeon for a wife?
Sweet dreams, my love.
You may chase those rabbits now.
JH: So sweet! Although I can’t really picture Jamie chasing rabbits. Ha-ha!
B: I can’t help but think Jem is probably giving Rob hell!!!! And if so, I’m glad for it. He’s Jamie’s grandson after all!
M: Why did Rob do this? He’s so grimy; I can’t stand it. I’m still mad the man showed up to the house unannounced and KIDNAPS THEIR CHILD??!
JH: OMG, how could Rob do this!! All for some gold that he has very shaky information on!
B: Roger is normally such a calm man, I jumped a little when I saw his anger. Go get ‘em Roger!
M: Damn. Rob really needs money so badly he’s going back to 1700’s NC to find some gold? Also how did he Rob know he could travel through the stones himself?
JH: Wow, it’s rare we see Roger this worked up. He’s not so mild mannered after all!
His principal motive is empathy: he’s lost his own family [as a result of his time traveling], including his children. He urgently wants to help Roger and Bree [Sophie Skelton] get Jem back, because he knows how losing a child feels. Also (and we’ll learn more about this later), Roger’s family is Buck’s family, as well.
But we got this amazing actor Diarmaid Murtagh who’s playing Buck and he just stepped into this character and took it to places I had not imagined. And I love the pairing of him and Roger – you know, Richard and Diarmaid together, I think it really magic. It’s like a buddy roadshow. So we got really, really lucky.
B: Not that Roger isn’t capable, but I definitely feel better knowing that Buck is coming with him. Sometimes Roger doesn’t seem to make the best decisions on his own.
M: So what happens to Buck on the other side? It says he died in 1778…
JH: Thank you, Buck! I’m glad Roger isn’t going alone.
B: Granny Gates has me cracking up!
M: Look at the well healing incision. Claire is like ‘Damn I can’t keep my husband from the battlefield no matter what?’
Are ye no happy with Uncle Jamie’s progress?
JH: Ha-ha. I hope the general doesn’t catch wind of his nickname! And Claire knows she can’t control Jamie. He just has to play the warrior no matter what.
It means he will fight again.
Oh, Rollo, for goodness’ sake, my goose grease.
I’ll get ye some goose grease, Auntie. Some Oneida arrived.
They’ll have some, I wager.
Uh, could you take it to Denzell after? Or, um to his sister?
B: Yes!!! Let’s get some Ian/Rachel action, please!
M: I like their relationship. I also like that William likes Rachel too, but clearly Rachel likes Ian more.
JH: Ian is smitten! I’m glad he has found someone else after all the heartbreak he’s been through.
B: Woohoo!!! Go Ian, let’s not play around with this. Let’s get it going! It’s so nice seeing Ian like this.
M: It’s cute watching Ian find love again. I felt so badly for him after he left the Mohawk.
JH: Ha-ha. What a cute moment. But this is the eighteenth century, so an innocent scene like this could be scandalous.
B: Okay, I was not expecting her to slap him! They are too cute together.
M: Damn, she slapped him? Ayyyee its the clip from the opening credits!
JH: Ha-ha. You go, Rachel! It’s interesting that Ian mixes his Mohawk and Gaelic. I doubt there’s anyone else with a dialect like his.
Of course, hello, I am a romantic at heart!
I love it, it’s a classic, iconic scene and I think there’s so much great chemistry between Izzy [Meikle-Small] and John [Bell] – they’re a great team.
B: OHHH MMYYYY GODD!!!
Thee must not. We must not.
No. Of course. Of course we mustn’t. It’s no’ safe.
Does thee know . . . how I feel?
I’m not worry about whether you love me.
I’m worried abut whether you might die because of it.
I think it’s best if ye . . . dinna touch me.
Because if you do then, I’ll- –
I’ll take ye here and now.
And then it’s too late for us both.
B: Ian sounds just like his Uncle Jamie. I feel like I’m experiencing Jamie and Claire’s first stages all over again… well sort of. My cheeks hurt, I’m smiling so much!
M: OMG IAN STHAAPPPP.
JH: Okay, that was hot! LOL.
B: It would be cool to see Claire running her own Apothecary shop.
M: I wonder if she will ever try to make ether again, given what happened to her house?
JH: So many little bottles in that case!
Claire hasn’t been able to shop for her potions in ages, so she must be excited.
[V: Her face lit up like a kid in a candy store.]
Your wife and I have just been discussing the philosophy
of endeavor. What do you say?
B: Claire got Jamie quoting from the future. They gotta be careful. It’s funny though.
M: That’s so funny. Look at them messing with the timeline. I’d drop quotes from the future too, if I were there.
Does a wise man know his limits or a bold one deny them?
Well, I’ve heard it said that a man’s reach must
exceed his grasp, or what’s a heaven for?
JH: Whoops, hope that little anachronism doesn’t affect anything!
JH: There Jamie goes, quoting poetry again!
Thank you for the trade, Mr. – –
I’m sorry, I-I don’t know your rank.
Major General Benedict Arnold.
B: Jesus H Roosevelt Christ! I had forgotten that he shows up too.
M: WHHHATTTT??!!?!?! YOOO, MY JAW JUST DROPPED. Gosh this show is so cool. Ugh, I wish Bree were still in their time.
JH: OMG, the traitor!! It must be so crazy to see such a notorious historical figure in the flesh.
B: Imagine meeting people in person who you’ve only read about in history books. Claire is blown away!
M: Maybe Rachel shouldn’t preoccupy herself with being invited to these ‘meetings’ if it means that she’ll be shunned for loving our sweet Ian.
JH: Ian and Rachel are very different people, but I guess opposites attract!
We see her become a woman, she’s a bit cheeky and flirty. She has a really interesting love story.
William’s a safer choice. There’s that conversation that Rachel has with her brother Denzell, and it’s basically, “Pray for me.” Her heart knows where it belongs, but her head is conflicted.
She’s drawn to someone who is the opposite, in terms of violence, of where her beliefs are. But the heart wants what it wants. Ian left Rollo in her care, which is the greatest thing he could do in terms of showing where his heart is.
B: I used to be so frustrated that Claire couldn’t recall when certain things happened so they could be more prepared, but now I love it.
JH: I don’t blame her for not knowing when it will happen. My American history is much shakier than hers.
He’s an American through and through and a brilliant soldier.
[Jamie] Well, everyone likes him, save Granny Gates.
There’s bad blood between them. Over what I dinna ken,
but the men would follow him anywhere.
[Claire] At some point. he’ll become disillusioned
and decide to switch sides.
He’ll start making overtures to the British.
For an American general to turn his coat, it’s unthinkable.
His name will become synonymous with being a traitor.
B: I love seeing that look on Jamie’s face when he has to figure something out.
M: I don’t know why but I feel like Jamie is thinking, ‘So do we get rid of him now or wait…?’
B: The question is, was William captured??? Hmm.
M: Jamie needs to leave this war. He’s going to stay preoccupied with Willie and will get hurt. As we saw in the last episode, Willie (spawn) can take care of himself.
JH: Yes, Jamie really should not be fighting in a war against his son, he’s going to get himself in trouble trying to protect him for sure.
B: It is insane. The brutality one man can inflict on another and feel no regret over it. So sad!
M: WOOOOOWWWW. The British army are some evil people.
JH: Do the British ever get sick of lashing people? But this is a cool callback to the Jacobite uprising.
B: 499!!!!! How can someone do that to another human being! Horrifying.
M: I’ll bet they’re kindred spirits, similar lash markings and all.
JH: Yes, it must be hard not to have kinship between two people who have such horrifying experiences.
Yeah – I mean, we’re not Game Of Thrones! We don’t have Game Of Thrones money so battles have to be approached in a different way. In episode seven, a battle was scene from William’s point of view and in episode eight it’s Jamie’s point of view and I love that in that way, it lets us still have the battles and they’re still exciting but it’s focused in a way that is also doable.
It was one of our biggest and director Joss Agnew and everyone else who worked on this episode and choreographed it, they did such a great job, and all the extras and everyone else – it was a true team effort.
B: Here we go! I’m like Claire, ‘Jamie why are you in this?????’
M: This is ANOTHER battle right? Right after the one that just happened? WHAT?
JH: Battles in this time period are so intense! It’s all so up close, but so much slower that the machine guns Claire would have heard in WWII.
B: They needed to build better protection for Jamie. This is too dangerous.
M: Damn. I don’t know how people could go to battle like that. Watch someone die beside you, say, ‘okay’ and keep going.
JH: That flimsy fence isn’t going to protect him! He needs better cover!!
B: You shoot him, Benedict Arnold, if you want it done so bad! Do it yourself! Jamie’s facing his own cousin on the battlefield; this is going to get tricky.
M: Jamie shouldn’t have been in the battle. He has too many relatives on the other side.
JH: What is Simon Fraser doing? He’s an easier target pacing up and down on that horse!
JH: It’s not really their fault. Guns weren’t very accurate back then! But Jamie is a very good shot – maybe he can miss on purpose.
M: Yea, I can’t imagine Jamie willingly aiming at his relative.
B: Ohhh nooo!!! Not William. This is crazy!
M: Did he shoot the hat off William on purpose? That was a good shot! Maybe not because Jamie looks shook! Damn, William doesn’t even realize that Simon Fraser is his actual relative. That’s Jamie’s kin right there, man.
JH: OH NO!! That was too close!
There are a couple of special moments. Obviously we’ve been waiting to see Jamie face William and that moment where he shoots the fun and tries to miss Simon Fraser and then realises he’s almost killed William – the look on Sam’s [Heughan] face, showing that his worst fears almost came true. I love that scene.
We’ve been building to this all season. One of the things we played with Jamie and this conflict, is that he’s torn between two children. He’s fighting on the right side of history, for the America that his daughter will live in.
But it also means he’s fighting across enemy lines from his son. His worst fear is facing him across the barrel of a gun. In episode 8, we see that worst fear come true.
It’s such an interesting dilemma for Jamie and will continue in the second half, of wanting to know his son, but having to keep that secret, wanting to keep him safe, but knowing he’s on the wrong side of history. It’ a really juicy dilemma.
B: Me screaming, “Noooo Jamie, stay back!! Noooo”
M: Now why would you move forward like that Jamie? Isn’t that why you became a rifleman? To hang back and take people out from a distance?
JH: Uggh, Jamie just can’t stay away from the action! You’re getting too old for this Jamie!!!
B: Jamie, what the hell are you doing???? You’re gonna get yourself killed.
M: This is violent. I’m just staring saying, ‘dang’ when anyone gets hit or hurt.
JH: I didn’t know they had grenades back then! Warfare is getting more modern!
It’s a heartbreaking first part of the season because Jamie is so torn between his two children. You know what I mean? I think Sam has done such a tremendous job this season showing that conflict.
[Jamie] William!
B: Jamie is wayyy too distracted by William to be in this war. He needs to sit this one out. Fake sick or something.
M: NAH, William being in this was too distracting. Jamie needs to excuse himself.
JH: This is just too damn chaotic! Jamie needs to get out of there!
B: Come through Ian, come through! Thank you for saving Jamie.
M: YAAASS IAN! I love it!
JH: Wow that war paint is terrifying! I would not want to face that in battle!
B: Oh that was Benedict Arnold’s horse from the title card.
M: Nice catch Bella, I didn’t realize that before.
JH: Well spotted, Bella!
She’s very conflicted. She obviously likes him. He is very likable. What does she say to him? What does she not? What’s her duty there and could she change things? Should she? Because obviously him doing what he did contributed to us being where we are today. I love that part of the head scratcher of the time travel and butterfly effect. It’s a really interesting conflict.
B: In situations like these, I’m always screaming, “Claire don’t say anything, don’t talk about the future, please!”
M: Damn maybe he should have been killed there. Then he wouldn’t have been remembered as a traitor instead of a martyr.
JH: Wow, Benedict Arnold is a very unlucky man, if that’s true.
The show did a good job of doing what I did intend in the book: showing Benedict Arnold as a real person, with personal charm, as well as deep concern for his men.
They did a good job of pinpointing the clash between Arnold and General Gates [Ged Simmons], and the wounded pride that was at the root of Arnold’s treason, briefly but effectively, with the conversation the injured general has with Claire.
M: Wow this is so sad. I feel badly for him now.
Darn these Outlander writers for making us feel badly for a traitor by giving him depth and plight.
JH: I guess it’s a testament to the writers that they can make us sympathize with Benedict Arnold!
M: Claire is wondering if she said something to Benedict Arnold that made him become a traitor – HA.
B: Can I just say that I ADORE how Jamie includes Claire in everything. I loved it when he said, “My wife and I will come.”
M: I appreciate it that Jamie is allowed to see his cousin before he passes.
JH: Yes, I’m glad they let them see each other.
They’re still family even though they’re on opposite sides.
B: Another Fraser with the humor. Love it!
M: I’m loving the Gaelic dialogue here.
JH: Of course a Scot would have gallows humor like this!
B: It’s so sad to think how happy they all were in Scotland, before the British came in.
M: It must be hard being away from home like this.
JH: This is sad; they’re both so far away from home.
B: Okay, so can Jamie and William come face-to-face now, please. William’s always meeting up with everyone except Jamie.
M: Aww, William (Spawn) is okay!
JH: So much is unsaid between Claire, Jamie and William. It’s a wonder they haven’t cracked yet when everything is so uncertain with this war.
B: Claire is right; war is only pain and suffering, no matter who wins or loses. Glad William is finally seeing it too.
M: He was so excited to enter the war and now look at this. The boy’s innocence has been lost.
JH: It looks like he is finally growing up. I’m sure war was nowhere near the stories of glory he heard about.
B: I’m glad Simon called Jamie to his side in his final moments. They both needed that.
M: At least Simon has a fellow Scot to help take care of him in the afterlife with their customs.
JH: Yes, it was good Simon had family there in his final moments.
B: Ohh Jamie!!! I feel so bad for him, not being able to acknowledge his own son.
M: LOL ‘rebel whoreson.’ It was JAMIE that did it, okay??!
JH: Jamie must be so relieved to see that William is okay! And kicking himself for almost killing him!
I thought they did a great job with the hat scene—an important one, and one the book readers will be thrilled with. It does differ from the books in minor ways, but it’s basically a question of choreography. They needed to get Jamie and Claire to the British camp for Simon Fraser’s death, and then provide a plausibly seamless way for Jamie to see William, and impulsively give him the hat.
B: What a moment! Wow! That was something. I was holding my breath.
M: It irks me that Jamie uses formalities with William. I understand why, but it still irritates me.
JH: It’s crazy seeing Jamie have to treat his own son as a superior.
B: This is heartbreaking. Ohh, Jamie!!!! I feel so bad for him.
Because, Claire . . .
for the second time in his life,
I’ve come within an inch of shooting my son.
The first was the night of his birth.
And, I thought all at once,
“What if I dinna miss a third time?”
M: Yea that would be hard to live with. This is why Jamie needs to leave this war.
JH: That’s so awful. Jamie has been through so much heartbreak!
As an aside, watched the dailies for that scene, and there were four takes of Jamie walking away from William, with Claire following, asking him why he did that? Jamie replies that this was the second time in William’s life that he (Jamie) had come within an inch of shooting him, and what if he didn’t miss, a third time?
Then says, ‘I thought I must try to speak to him once, as a man…in case it was my only chance.’ This was really well done, and on the third take (the one they used), when Sam spoke the last line, the AD (Assistant Director) quietly said ‘cut’ and you could hear either the Director or AD (I couldn’t tell which) very quietly say, ‘Smashed it…smashed it.’ And he did.”
B: It’s interesting how William had such a close relationship with Simon Fraser, not even realizing they were related.
JH: Congrats William! Maybe he can stay away from the fray now that he’s higher rank? That will be a relief for Jamie.
M: Oh yea good thought, Jess. Help keep him safer.
No, don’t.
The donor of your hat,
James Fraser, said we must leave it open,
some Highland fancy about the soul requiring an exit.
Impressive gentlemen, the brigadier’s kinsman.
Indeed.
B: William being impressed by his father, without even knowing who he is, is awesome!!! Jamie is an impressive man!
M: He’s probably remembering Jamie as the groomsman he grew up with in England that helped take care of him.
JH: I wonder if William senses the relationship somehow. He definitely admires his father at least.
B: Whew, let’s not ever worry about Jamie killing William ever again.
M: YAY!!!! That closes this chapter at latest. William is heading back to England.
JH: Hopefully, that’s the end of Jamie and William fighting on opposite sides!
B: This is perfect! Jamie and Claire get on the boat now!
M: Jamie is like, ‘If I must go back to Scotland then… might as well follow orders.’
JH: Yes, finally they can get away from all this bloodshed and go home to Scotland!
B: What a relief! Get away from America.
M: FINALLY!!! LETS GOOO BACK!! Wow it’s been a year since they left the Ridge? Has the house been rebuilt yet?
JH: Such great news!!
We’re going to Scotland.
There is a cloud over Ian’s shoulder. He’s found the love of his life, but he can’t really be with her because he knows if he is, she’s probably going to be killed by Arch. It’s heartbreaking. Ian’s struggling with that as he’s going to Scotland, but he’s left Rollo with her. You know it’s true love if you leave your most precious possession with someone.
B: Rachel loves Rollo and Rollo loves Rachel. They are already a family.
M: Can’t Rollo go with him? I would NEVER leave my dog like that. I can face time my dogs at least.
JH: I guess Ian has too strong a connection to America now to stay in Scotland forever.
B: Look at little Mandy already knowing that her father is going away through the stones.
M: And back they goooo!!! How do they know they’ll all end up in the same time as Rob and Jem? Rob is SICK.
JH: Wow this is turning into a regular ritual for this family. I hope Roger comes back quickly!
It’s so hard. Knowing that time travel’s so tough anyway, and then to think your son is out there somewhere with a crazy person. It’s the not knowing that’s the hardest part. Not going on this journey with Roger and Buck and not knowing what’s happening or where they are or if they found him and where Jem is. As a mother that has got to be really heartbreaking.
B: I had almost forgotten about Arch Bug, but here he turns up again ready to cause chaos.
M: YOOO, I was scared Arch was going to kill Rollo. I was about to stop watching Outlander if the dog died like that.
JH: Oh no!!! Arch Bug is such a creep. He must have been trailing Ian for months at this point.
I love that he’s over the season always the shadow behind Ian, and the promise [of revenge] that he made to him at Medina’s [Bug’s wife] funeral. Like, just when you’re happiest, I’ll be there to ruin your happiness. And I’ll be following you. It’s a great pressure point to put on a character, and John Bell handles that really well – there’s this weight on his shoulders going into the next half of the season.He loves this girl, but doesn’t want to burden her with this and doesn’t want anything to happen to her.
But Arch Bug, he has time. Murdina’s gone. He’s just going to wait it out until he accomplishes his last mission, and then he’s going to see Murdina again.
We do try to do those little things – and we added in a little cat that’s running through the ship that reminds us that Ian left Rollo the dog behind.
It’s a fun finale to end on – it gives us some hope as Jamie and Claire and Ian come up on deck and see Scotland, and it brings us back to our roots. And also with Brianna and Roger it leaves us in a place of what’s going to happen, will they find Jemmy – it’s a crossing of highs and lows.
M: All Jamie needs is some Zofran, and his problems would be solved. Jamie looks MISERABLE.
B: I’m smiling so hard at just seeing them all on this ship together!
JH: They’re finally going home! I hope they can finally have some well-deserved peace and quiet.
B: No, not Jamie and them needles again!
M: I miss Rollo for Ian too. They really weren’t allowed to carry the dog? Rollo would have liked Scotland I’m sure. Claire and Ian’s faces making fun of Jamie saying they are the ‘representation of the dignity of the American cause’ knowing full well the man is suffering.
I feel like there’s so many call backs to earlier episodes. ‘You look like a pin cushion’ from S3 comes to mind when they talk about acupuncture.
JH: I guess she learned some acupuncture too! Another skill on her long resume.
B: I’m emotional. After all this time, Jamie finally returns to Scotland.
M: AYYYEEEE, I’M SO READY FOR THIS SCOTLAND!!!! Jess we gotta plan a trip.
JH: It must be incredible to see Scotland again after all this time.
B: Amazing, beautiful scenery; what a gorgeous place. Cannot wait to see what awaits Jamie, Claire and Ian on their return.
M: Jamie’s face is the same look I have on my face when I’m about to land in Jamaica after staying away from home for so long.
JH: Jamie’s finally back in his homeland!
Episode Rating (1-5 Shots)
We give this episode 5-shots (rounded up). It was fantastic. We loved it! The story, the drama, the battles and the humor were all very well done. Great pacing and acting. We loved the little reminders we had from previous episodes. We also loved that we saw an actual historical figure, which is why we love Outlander so much, a story built into the history that’s already written.
The pacing was amazing, between the fast chaos of the battle scenes and the slower dialogue scenes, it was all very well-balanced. Also, the balance of not spending too much time in the future was important due to the weight of the storyline in the past. There was a lot of material and storyline to cover but it didn’t feel rushed. The medical material was cool too.
The cinematography was, again, outstanding. The last scene with Scotland was amazing. The song (“Tha mi sgìth ‘n fhògar seo” translates to “I am weary of this exile” by John MacRae) being sung with the land emerging from the fog was a gorgeous scene and a great way to end the first half of this season.
We appreciated seeing the character developments. Each had great defining moments that gave them a fully-fleshed out role in the plot. It was a nice ending to the first half. We finally got back to Scotland too! It’s gonna be a long hard wait for more Outlander!
We have three favorite scene in this episode. One is of Ian and Rachel in the tent. It’s so awesome seeing Ian grown up and in love. The scene was cute, yet passionate, and we are glad to have another Outlander couple to root for! The second one is when Jamie gave William his hat, and everyone being impressed by Jamie. There was such quiet intensity and Jamie’s emotion afterward was so moving. The last, but certainly not least, was the ending scene of course. It felt like such a big sigh of relief! Hearing Gaelic music and seeing Scotland through Jamie and Claire’s eyes for the first time in years. We couldn’t help but smile.
This episode was well directed, and it kept us captivated the entire time. The battle scenes were impressive and so realistic. The flow of the scenes definitely shows off the director’s chops. There were so many moving parts, but it all came together.
We had three favorite performances this episode. One is Caitriona and Sam. We loved the cold opening scene. Claire is so cross with Jamie for getting himself injured and he is just smiling at her because he can’t help himself. Two, we can’t overlook Joey Phillips’ portrayal of Denny. His emotional moments really drew us in. Even his conversation with Rachel was so touching. We love what he adds to the story. The last is Richard Rankin’s portrayal of Roger. We don’t often see that level of anger from Roger, and it highlighted Richard’s range.
As for favorite customs, we really liked Bree’s casual sweater and jeans combo. It’s strange seeing her in modern clothes after so long, but she looks fashionable no matter what century she’s in. We also love all of Jamie’s leather coats. The one he was wearing in the final scene was everything.
LOOKING FORWARD
What we are looking forward to in S7 Pt. 2.
Bella: I cannot remember everything that happens to them while they are in Scotland, and I’m not going to go back and reread it. I kind of like not knowing every detail. I’m looking forward to seeing what dilemma awaits them. I hope we see Jenny this time! Follow Bella on Twitter/X- @BellaDameNoir.
Margot: I’m just looking forward to them in Scotland, seeing them readjust to the country again. What have Jenny and Ian been up to? Also, Roger will be in Scotland too so maybe they’ll cross paths? You can also check out my IG page: @Margotmaker, where I make posts about my crochet and DIY projects. It’s just getting started.
Jess H: I’m looking forward to seeing how much things in Scotland have changed! And I can’t wait to see the reunion between Ian and his family; I hope Jenny doesn’t kill him! I also wonder when/how they will run into Roger, and if Briana will have to come after him. There’s so much to look forward to. This is going to be a difficult Droughtlander! Follow Jess H on Twitter/X – @calypsomoon9.
Marsha: I am looking forward to seeing how several storylines unfold. Ian’s reunion with his family, for one: How will Jenny react to the new version of her son? What will Arch Bug do to exact revenge on Ian for his wife’s death and will he be successful in his efforts? Will Jem be reunited with his entire family? What’s happening with Rachel and Ian? When or how will Jamie and William cross paths again? Will Fergus and Marsali have a storyline in Pt. 2? How will Jamie and Claire experience Scotland this time around? Will they be separated again? Follow Marsha on Twitter/X – @marshapatrice.
Amanda: I’m really looking forward to what happens in Scotland because it’s been so long since we’ve seen the Fraser extended family. I’m also looking forward to following William’s military career. Not only will there be great history Easter eggs, but William has also really grown on me as a character this season. I’m also crossing my fingers that the MacKenzies will be reunited! Follow Amanda on Twitter/X – @amandarprescott and also read her Outlander articles on Den of Geek.
Lorinda: I’m looking forward to Buck and Rogers hunt for Jemmy and to see what time they actually arrive in. I also want to see Jenny’s reaction when she sees Ian and his transformation into a young man. There is so much meat left to the story; I’m just excited for part two to begin! Follow Lorinda Cockrell on Twitter/X – @RindalovesBruce.
Ayana: Lord John storyline. I don’t want to say too much because of spoilers. But the story surrounding Lord John is what I’m most looking forward to. Follow Ayana on Twitter/X – @Ayana80Smith.
Vida: There is so much to look forward to in Pt. 2. Claire, Jamie and Ian reuniting with Jenny and Ian. Jenny and Ian’s reaction to seeing Young Ian. Buck and Roger going back in time. Will they meet up with Jamie and Claire? In present day, what will be happening with Bree and Mandy, while Roger and Buck are gone. Will we see more of the Hunters? What’s going on with William now that he’s been promoted? Follow Vida on Twitter/X – @blacklanderz and IG – @blacklanderz.
Erica: What am I looking forward to? Where do I begin…I’m loving that all of the main characters are making progress in their stories. Claire, Jamie, and Ian are going home. What will Ian and Jennie think of the man that Young Ian has become? I am sure that there will be drama with Laoghaire, which is always interesting. Mr. Bug has set his sights on Rachel, and it will not end well for him, I’m certain. William will find out exactly who Jamie is and if it is anything like the book, it will be FIRE!!! Roger and Buck have traveled. Seeing them working together will be good, especially since Buck tried to have Roger killed. Needless to say, I’m looking forward to an explosive Pt. 2 of S7. Is Droughtlander done yet? I can’t wait to see what’s to come. Follow Erica on IG – @imyourealtor14.
Outlander S7 – Part 2 Teaser
~ Video via STARZ
Synopsis:
See why we love Outlander on Blacklanderz® Speak!
Disclaimer: We hold no rights to any of the pictures. No copyright infringement intended.
I enjoy your discussions and reading your views about the scenes. I agree that the scene between Claire and Denny discussing how hard it is dealing with the losses a doctor faces trying to help soldiers after battles is a great scene. Also loved the scene between Ian and Rachel. The whole episode was full of great moments and great acting. I am always impressed by how the actors they find for all the roles are so good, and the scripts and scenes this season have been great. I liked that they used so much of the dialogue and scenes from the books. Diana writes wonderful dialogue and I felt sometimes in earlier seasons that the scriptwriters should have used it and not tried to rewrite it.
Thank you so much for the kind words and you reading it. Totally agree with all of your points. I am not sure what the writer’s room was thinking in earlier seasons. I guess it took this long for them to get the point of the importance of source material. This really was a good season. Perhaps the thought of it being the last, when they started, forced them to stick more closely with the book and dialog.
I love these convos. I think this entire season was excellent, but Episode 8 was exceptional. We had plenty of Jamie & Claire moments, some of those very subtle and sweet. I loved it when he was watching her as she washed her hands before performing her surgery. The look on his face was so loving. I felt exhilarated when Jamie saw the shores of Scotland. That look alone is enough to carry me through to the second half of Season 7. I really enjoyed the hat scene and the scene between Ian and Rachel. I like Daniel a lot too. His performance regarding his reason for hating the English was superb. He and Jamie really are kindred spirits. Thank you so much for sharing your insights and convos. Like many of us, I just can’t get enough of everything Outlander. What you all bring to the table is just one more layer to add on to protect us until the second half of the season.
Eleta Parris
Thank you so much. We appreciate you reading and enjoying them. I totally agree. This was probably one of the best seasons, next to S1. I love how they are showing a mature Jamie and Claire and what that looks like in their relationship. I also liked how he watched Claire prepare for surgery. He so appreciates her and her skills. Ian and Rachel were off the charts with their chemistry. I love seeing this relationship develop and hope we see more soon. But, I am glad they are back in Scotland. It will be nice to see some of the characters from previous seasons. ~ V