Angel: Judgment (2.1)

Angel opens its second season with an episode that isn't a total masterpiece, but one that gives the show a stronger direction and sense of purpose. One of the major themes carried over from season one is the idea of redemption, with Angel plotting his next move after his discovery of the Shanshu prophecy, and discovering that things aren't always easy. It's an episode where people make mistakes and screw up, and there's even a neat cameo from Faith, who gets to bond with Angel over their mutual attempts to make things right.

One of the more overt changes this year seems to be in the show's humor. David Boreanaz has been allowed to play a looser, happier Angel; somebody who's quick with the quippery and central to funny sequences (notably the entire Mandy scene). At the same time, Caritas is a wonderfully inventive idea, Andy Hallett immediately making an impression as the swishy karaoke diva Lorne. I also loved the depiction of demons having fun and singing songs really badly. It just opens up the universe a little.

We only get a little bit of Wolfram & Hart hoodoo this week, but it's immediately intriguing. Darla is standing listlessly around the offices like a disturbed newborn, while Lilah and Lindsey banter over her arrival. There's already a connection between Lindsey and Darla, which ought to create sparks.

Judgment's central story involving the pregnant lady and the jousting isn't hugely fascinating, but the tone and humor of the episode shows promise for the rest of the season. There's also some wonderful character work, especially in the interaction between Wes, Cordy and Gunn. The gang's coming together, kids. B-

Credits
Guest stars Christian Kane (Lindsey McDonald); Stephanie Romanov (Lilah Morgan); Andy Hallett (Lorne); Justina Machado (Jo); Julie Benz (Darla)
Teleplay David Greenwalt Story Joss Whedon, David Greenwalt Director Michael Lange