Legacies Review: You Have To Pick One This Time (Season 4 Episode 1)

The Super Squad and Malivore go head to head on Legacies Season 4 Episode 1, “You Have To Pick One This Time.”

Season 4 of Legacies is kicking off in full throttle as the Super Squad rally together in hopes of getting Cleo and Landon back. “You Have To Pick One This Time” is one of the best-ranking premieres Legacies has had in its four seasons and rightfully deserves the praise.

Besides the main objective of rescuing Cleo and Landon, there is subtle character growth for select members of the squad. Kaleb’s past ripper tendencies confront him, and Lizzie focuses on her ability to be okay alone. Meanwhile, Finch slowly realizes where she falls in the mix, and Hope gets a much-needed wake-up call.

Hope’s wake-up call from the squad is a glorious moment to witness because it is much needed. Hope may not want to believe that she’s a liability when Landon’s involved, but it’s the truth. Her ability to incorporate Landon and the main objective together is an issue because nothing is more important than him in her eyes.

While on the mission to rescue Cleo, Hope proves everything that is said about her to be accurate by blowing up on Cleo. She apologizes swiftly afterward, but she still allows the thought of Landon to overpower her. He is a figurative crutch for Hope, and she will never be able to grow or move on as long as he’s alive.

Storyline-wise, personally, it feels like things would be better off if Landon were dead. Hope’s obsession with Landon after three straight seasons is officially old and boring. Season 4 needs to be a fresh start with the removal of Landon from the equation. So, hopefully, Kaleb and Alaric do just what Landon wants and kill his body the moment they rescue Cleo.

With that being said, technically, the show is still in its third season. The first four episodes of Season 4 were initially supposed to be in Season 3. However, due to Covid-19 and production shutdowns, the last four episodes were pushed back to the next season.

So, Season 4 of Legacies does not officially begin until Season 4, Episode 5, “I Thought You’d Be Happier To See Me.” With that knowledge, It would make sense that if Landon were to meet his fate, it would happen in the true Season 3 finale, which is Season 4 Episode 4.

Legacies does well most of the time knowing when to shift the focus between multiple storylines. There is still room for individual character growth or new storyline development even in an episode so devoutly centered around a particular goal.

Josie and Finch’s relationship is one of the best things to blossom from Season 3. Josie has dealt with her fair share of darkness, black magic, and death. Her life is so entangled in other people’s messes that she doesn’t get to experience the small things herself a lot of the time.

Finch doing her research on Josie’s coven and witch background could come off a bit creepy, but the love behind her actions overshadows the fact. She cares for Josie immensely, which is why she conducts her research to know exactly what she’s getting herself into with Gemini witches.

If there were any doubts about Josie’s relationship with Finch beforehand, there shouldn’t be anymore. Her willingly letting Josie and Lizzie siphon her to save the squad proves how invested she is.

“You Have To Pick One This Time” is a substantial beginning to Season 4, and it’s doubtful the momentum slows down anytime soon, thankfully.

Other Thoughts:

• Lizzie and Hope’s friendship is freaking adorable. Lizzie asking Hope to stay with her until she falls asleep is enough to bring out the emotions. Their friendship has come so far, and it’s nice to see a genuine bond between the two.
• MG’s can-do attitude is infectious, and his perspective is one the rest of the squad needs to take. Together they can accomplish anything, but divided, they’re weak and more susceptible to lose.
• Cleo deserves nothing but the world for all the trauma that she continues to endure. I hope that by Season 4, Episode 4, she’s able to make her escape.
• With a mention of The Merge so early in the season, I wonder if there’s some foreshadowing behind it.
• I enjoy the personal growth that Kaleb experiences throughout the episode. However, I’m not thrilled about his allegiance pledge to Alaric. Alaric can make a swift exit along with Landon.

Favorite Quotes:

• “Look, I share your frustrations; I want to kill you too.” – Malivore.
• “You’re Super Squad. We never leave a member behind.” – MG.
• “How long have I been gone?” – Landon.
• “If the Salvatore school has taught me anything, it’s that a little Hope goes a long way.” – MG.
• “You can siphon me till I’m dry, Jo. I just want to know why.” – Finch.
• “It’s a Squad thing; you wouldn’t understand. Do your worst. I only need to endure it until my friends rescue me.” – Cleo.

What did you think of this episode of Legacies? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Critic Rating:

User Rating:

 

Legacies airs Thursdays at 9/8c on The CW.

 Follow us on Twitter and on Instagram!

Want more from Tell-Tale TV? Subscribe to our newsletter here!

Hannah Levien Talks ‘Brand New Cherry Flavor’ and That Iconic Wig! [Interview]