Yes, I like how the characters and their relationships are progressing. However, if Joss Whedon’s past productions (“Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and “Angel”) are any indication of where this series is headed, it’s a safe bet that he will throw some curves at his characters as the series progresses. Whedon understands that happy relationships make for poor drama. His characters will mature, change, and as a result their relationships will be put through the proverbial wringer. Good stuff! (So watch out Wash and Zoe!)
Simon and Kaylee? I guess I could see that happening – Kaylee seems boy-crazy, while Simon probably likes the attention, but he isn’t sure what to do with it. Will it last? Hmm. At least until something better comes along for Kaylee. Simon isn’t going to be the one to break it off, and he seems like the kind of guy that women like having as their “best male friend”, if you know what I mean.
I hope Joss doesn’t rush too fast with the “Malcolm and Inara” romance. I like the way they play off of each other. In the previous episode it appears that Mal doesn’t know that he has her in his grasp, and Inara isn’t sure how Mal feels about her – nor does it seem that Inara is comfortable about feeling the way she does. That whole “sexual tension” thing…That’s good drama – so far.
The biggest problem that I have with the show so far is that, unlike Joss’ other programs, Firefly is a little too episodic. Plot consequences are wrapped up cleanly at the end of the episode. There doesn’t seem to be a grand story-arc, or a recurring menace – but I can deal with it.
Bottom line: four episodes into the series, and I like it. I’m still watching.
