See what’s inside the complete seventh and final season Once Upon a Time Blu-Ray and DVD!

Our favorite and least favorite moments of the series, YOUR favorite and least favorite moments, the history of the podcast, how the show has impacted us, some fun moments from the podcast, and one last crackpot theory as we relive the best moments of the show in this hour-long cryfest of “Farewell, Once Upon a Time” podcast!
Favorite and Least Favorite Moments from Fans
It has been seven years since the show started and we’ve got a lot of feedback about your favorite and least favorite moments from the the Once Upon a Time community. Starting off the portal of feedback is one of Melanie’s top three moments:
Snow and Charming’s story of how they met – the original one not the one changed by time travel. Emma believing, fighting with Regina and kissing Henry to break the curse. Charming’s line about Thanksgiving because it shows how everyone is connected and acknowledges that yes it is a little crazy how we are all connected.
— Melanie
We loved the Thanksgiving line because it’s so spot on; it’s fortunate that they don’t have Thanksgiving because it will be chaotic.
If I had to go with one, probably 2X14, Manhattan. To me that episode was borderline flawless.
— Brian
This episode certainly remains one of our favorite episodes, as well. However, Brian also shared one of the show’s biggest mistake, which we also shared:
No doubt, killing off Neal. Especially when I read it wasn’t because the actor wanted out of the show, it was just a boneheaded decision made by the show-runners.
— Brian
That said, 3×11 “Going Home” have some of the best moments of the series.
Overall moment; Season 3, Episode 11 – Going Home (the Season 3 mid-season finale): As Pan’s Curse descends upon Storybrooke, Emma and Henry bid a tearful farewell to their family and friends at the town line as they leave Storybrooke for New York. Regina reveals they will lose their memories of Storybrooke but gifts them new memories of Emma raising Henry. Two and a half seasons in and the cast had built up such strong relationships, everything about this scene resonated. If Once had ended there and then, I would have been satisfied. I’m glad it didn’t as there was much more to come but honestly, that Neverland arc was brilliant and this moment encapsulated the character relationships perfectly.
— Matthew R
For all those reasons, season 3 finale will also go down as one of our favorite moments of the series. That would’ve been a really good series finale which, in a way, it kind of was. So what is the show’s legacy?
1) Mark Isham’s soundtrack for the series
2) People still need and want a happy ending
3) Why you need #Hire_the_Nerd obsessed fans and a good podcast to support a tv show
4) Why networks should not change a show’s time slot
5) If you plan to do a reboot — choose wisely — the timelines alone would make one head’s spin!
— Keeper of Squid Ink
Speaking of Mark Isham, he did released the series finale’s score, which everyone can listen to in his website. On the other hand, it was amazing how some of the series’ fans continued to tune in because they want to keep tuning to our podcast, and for that we are grateful. For a time, Alie Ward even recorded several recaps of the series; the show even had their own Once Upon a Time podcast for a while.
Mine is probably the Belle & Rumple wedding, and the dance in the episode after. The best!

What stood out? Where did they fall short? All these plus some timeline issues, parallels, and Once Upon a Time’s biggest success story in this full-discussion of “Leaving Storybrooke”!
Timeline Issues

We’ve already said a lot during our “Leaving Storybrooke” initial reactions, but there are so much more to say about the series finale. There’s clearly not enough magic in Rumplestiltskin’s castle to fix the timeline, but did the finale broke the time loop when Regina united the realms? What about the other Zelena in San Francisco? Is she not going to see her daughter and family ever again?
Young Henry is seen wearing a Sheriff badge by the end of the episode, but which Henry is it? Wish Henry or the Young Henry in Storybrooke? Did Wish Henry find a place in Storybrooke, after all? Why didn’t Regina just have them all go back in their appropriate times before uniting the realms? Then we wouldn’t have a problem seeing multiple versions of the characters.
Where are the duplicates? Which Regina is Queen? If all the realms were brought back together, shouldn’t it include Anastasia and Drizella? Storybrooke is not that big, where are they all going to live in now? DeAndre shared a long post at the forum about the final timeline and ages of our beloved characters.

If the troll is there, does that mean that Hyperion Heights is also in Storybrooke? The troll is certainly there, as well as the tower, did Regina bring it to Storybrooke, as well?
This finale should not been so rushed. The show really should have given us a 2 hr episode. In the end we should be lucky to get an end, unlike other shows. Everyone did get their happy ending. Wow. Just wow. Seven years gone so fast. We got lots of story. We fell in love with our heroes. I will treasure this show in my heart. I will rewatch many times over. Thank you Once Podcast for the amazing dedication to the podcast. I will also re listen to the podcast. This show had such an impact in my life and heart I did the front of my house in an Enchanted Forest fairytale design. Check out my wishing well directly inspired from the show. Thank you all for your hard work. I wish everyone the best and for God to bless you all.
— Annamaria
We wish “Leaving Storybrooke” could’ve been extended so they could’ve done more justice to the story if the network gave the show another hour. Once Upon a Time may not have the same ratings as the Shonda Rhimes’ shows, but they could’ve given it one more hour to fix everything up.
Operation: We Are Both

Seeing Alice and Robin in Storybrooke feels like visiting both a flashback and a present-day story all in one. It was nice seeing Granny and a few of the dwarfs including Grumpy, Sleepy and Sneezy, but when did the Storybrooke residents get so murdery? That being said, it was nice to see a montage of the seven dwarfs, as well as people that they couldn’t include in the episode in the montage.
We loved that Zelena had gone Hollywood when Alice and Robin walked up to her. It was cute for Robin to talk to her and making her believe that she was indeed her daughter while young Robin was sitting in the car and sticking out her tongue a...

Join Hunter and Jacquelyn in their final podcast together as they share their initial reactions about the series finale, “Leaving Storybrooke”, talking about one last magical mcguffin to solve the problem, some timeline confusion, and their favorite and least moments of the episode. Plus, some insights as they look back at the series as a whole!
These are our first thoughts about this Once Upon a Time episode. We’ll share more about “Leaving Storybrooke” in our upcoming full discussion (usually live on Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m., USA Eastern Time).
 
Initial Reactions
On a scale of 1 to 10, 10 being ‘Oh my God, best episode ever!’, “Leaving Storybrooke” is probably a 6 or 7, but that doesn’t mean we didn’t like it. There are some things we liked and loved, but it’s not the best episode of the series. That being said, it’s definitely better than other episodes in the past. Plot-wise, it’s all nonsense. It’s the typical Once Upon a Time ‘let’s throw spaghetti on the wall and see what sticks’, which is not great but one we’ve gotten used to. The emotional stuff particularly the endings for two characters that we have watched since the very first moment of the show, however, just hit out of the park; we loved Regina and Rumplestiltskin’s wedding! It was so sweet, especially Regina’s line, “the darkness can always find the light.”
The final episode definitely had a lot of nostalgia, and complicated feelings wrapped up in the series finale and as long as we don’t get our heads around the plot, it was a solid 8.
Favorite and Least Favorite Moments
It was nice seeing the dwarfs in the beginning of the episode whistling as they go to work, but where are the other 4 dwarfs? Perhaps the other actors weren’t available for filming during this time or there just aren’t enough budget to bring them all in for the final episode? That said, it was great to see Storybrooke for one last time. The fact that the opening shot was the clock tower and that it was on 8:15, which is a number that’s been around the show and was carried over from Lost was so great. Hyperion Heights never really felt like a real place and lived in; it didn’t quite have the same nostalgia of Storybrooke. It was great to open inside Storybrooke, and that the final shots of the entire show were these beautiful camera pans down the streets of Storybrooke. As much as we loved the characters, and we’ve always loved the characters, that small, quaint town has been as much of a character in Once Upon a Time as Emma or Regina. Opening up in this city that we all loved and seen familiar shots was a nice homecoming.
Another favorite moments from the series was seeing Granny with her crossbow; it was funny how she was just carrying it around. Plus, how very Once Upon a Time to have Leroy give some sort of big shout and causing panic and alarm. It was also hilarious seeing Robin and Alice running for the hills; very good pitch perfect opening scene.
On the other hand, as we moved to the Wish Realm where majority of the plot happens, we know in the previous episode “Homecoming” that Wish Henry wrote the Guardian out of the existence and everything that he did. How did everything he did made Rumplestiltskin mortal? We’ve watched Rumplestiltskin really struggle with the idea of being immortal, and for him to face the consequences of what that really means....

Some rants, more raves, a couple of questions that are now pointless, Operation: We Are Both, and more in our “Leaving Storybrooke” initial reactions!
Wish Rumple’s evil plan is revealed and Regina realizes the only hope to stop him is by turning Wish Henry from his path for vengeance. Meanwhile, Tilly and Margot try to get help in Storybrooke. With his hope of ever being reunited with Belle fading, Weaver struggles to find a way to defeat his evil alter ego; and when Rogers’ life is threatened, he is faced with the ultimate sacrifice.
These are our first thoughts about this Once Upon a Time episode. We’ll share more about “Leaving Storybrooke” in our upcoming full discussion (usually live on Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m., USA Eastern Time).
Initial Reactions
Remember, these are only our initial reactions regarding tonight’s episode so please bear with us if we’re a bit all over the place. If you have your own thoughts, feedbacks, or theories regarding tonight’s episode, however, send them over to us and join our upcoming full discussion!
“Leaving Storybrooke” was fun to watch. It was exciting and the story especially separated from last week was kind of just so-so, but we knew that whatever plot there was, was going to be mostly a vehicle for doing character stuff they wanted to do. The series finale had so many amazing character moments and reveals. It was so fun to watch, and there were so many things we liked. However, we were slightly convinced that they eventually listened to us and made sure that Rumple pulled one last vial of magic to use in the final episode of the series.
We definitely had some mixed reactions to some of what happened in the finale. Rumplestiltskin’s exit could’ve been more if they had more time, but the way that it happened also was all that could’ve happened because we’ve already had big epic moments that should’ve probably his end and weren’t. So it was no less meaningful, but it was not a repeat of something that they’ve already done. Plus, the fact that Hook started out as his nemesis, and then to end up sacrificing his life not just for him but also his daughter was one of the most beautiful moments of the series finale. That being said, everything would still work without the involvement of the Wish Realm.
The end was beautiful, but seeing two Henry’s was weird and messed up. Furthermore, Emma and Hook’s baby also shouldn’t be a baby. When Hook and Emma came to help Henry earlier in the season, Henry was grown and she was just expecting then, and that was before Lucy was born. Then again, as the Apprentice said, the timelines alone would make one’s head spin, and it certainly did ours. On the other hand, it was funny when Alice and Robin show up in Storybrooke out loud. So much for “they can’t know we’re here”.
The very end of the episode was cute in a way, but it also didn’t make a lot of sense in another. It’s like Disney World, as well as Operation: We Are Both. Somehow, the whole ceremony for Regina being the Queen of all the kingdoms was kind of amazing, but does Tiana still get to be Queen in her own kingdom? And did anyone expect Emma to come in and say “Sorry, I’m late” during Regina’s coronation? The best reveal of the show, however, was seeing Snow White and Prince Charming back. It was nice to see them again, what with Charming giving a sword twirl, as well as Snow with a bow and arrow. We also liked Regina’s dream about Robin Hood and the feather in her hands when she wakes up.

Everything you need to know about the series finale including synopsis, promo, set photos, as well as the final Hot Seat of the series in this Spoilers-only podcast of Spoilers for 7×22 “Leaving Storybrooke”!
“Leaving Storybrooke”
Wish Rumple’s evil plan is revealed and Regina realizes the only hope to stop him is by turning Wish Henry from his path for vengeance. Meanwhile, Tilly and Margot try to get help in Storybrooke. With his hope of ever being reunited with Belle fading, Weaver struggles to find a way to defeat his evil alter ego; and when Rogers’ life is threatened, he is faced with the ultimate sacrifice.
“Leaving Storybrooke” was written by Edward Kitsis & Adam Horowitz, and directed by Ralph Hemecker. Guest starring in this episode are Ginnifer Goodwin as Snow White, Jennifer Morrison as Emma Swan, Josh Dallas as Prince Charming, Jared Gilmore as Young Henry, Emilie de Ravin as Belle, Rebecca Mader as Zelena, Sean Maguire as Robin Hood, Tony Amendola as Marco, David Anders as Dr. Whale, Lee Arenberg as Leroy, Jack Davies as Pinocchio, Faustino Di Bauda as Sleepy, Beverley Elliott as Granny, Gabe Khouth as Sneezy, Rose Reynolds as Alice/Tilly, Tiera Skovbye as Robin/Margot and Keegan Connor Tracy as Blue Fairy.
A lot has happened in the last promo for Once Upon a Time’s series finale, “Leaving Storybrooke”, with Henry being attacked by one of the Dark Knights until Prince Charming and Snow White coming in to help their grandson. We then see Snow White sitting at the roundtable talking about how this Rumplestiltskin has been dangerous in the past and is even more evil than they’ve ever seen, cutting then to Wish Rumple walking into a room with what looks like Henry all tied up. In then goes some quick flashes of Wish Rumple having Rumplestiltskin by the neck, Nook and Rumple fighting in the snow storm, then of Rumple saying that he will drag them all into the darkness but Nook will not give up; Nook fighting the Dark Knights with a sword, as well as Regina sword-fighting with Wish Henry, Alice getting sucked into a portal, Nook grabbing stuff on the table, Regina being held by a sword point by Wish Henry saying, “If I have to go out by showing you that there are people who love you, then that’s a worthy end for me” and, finally, all the guest stars we expect to see by the series finale.
As for the promotional photos for “Leaving Storybrooke” and because it’s the end, we got photos of more than one scene, several of which are photos of people at the big final scene that we talked about in the previous spoiler podcast. There’s one of Lucy wearing a dress in what looks like the rumored coronation for Regina, or did she eventually become the Queen of the Wish Realm? We also have photos of Cinderella in her fancy blue dress, arm in arm with Henry who is wearing a suit. Based on what we keep hearing about, the big final scene isn’t going to be a wedding, but rather a coronation of some sort.
In another photo, we got both Snow White and Prince Charming in one photo wearing their fancy Enchanted Forest clothing, as well as a few random photos including the two Henry’s standing next to each other, with Wish Realm Henry in his gold armour and chain mail, and present day Henry in his plaid and leather jacket. There’s also a big family shot of everyone standing around the round table, including Cinderella, Henry, Snow White, Prince Charming, Alice, Robin, Zelena and Regina; a couple of close up shots of the same scene with Regina and Zelena, and Alice and Robin. In another photo, there were several shots of Regina locked up and chained in a cave or dungeon.

Some rants, a few raves, and a crackpot theory on what may happen that may resolve all complaints in the series finale. Did anyone really make a homecoming? Does Henry really deserve all the power of the Author? All these and more as we dig into the first part of the series finale, “Homecoming”!
As a whole, we hated a lot of more from “Homecoming” than we loved. It’s improved upon the rewatched, but it’s a little bit boring and just quite not getting there. They brought up multiple things, including some of the things that are in our list of least favorite things. Then again, the penultimate episode to the series finale would’ve been more enjoyable had they not split the series finale into two parts.
Happily… for four minutes
Wish Realm Henry opening the episode with him riding a horse like his Grandfather Prince Charming is a nice throwback. On the other hand, Wish Rumple definitely looks worst than our version of Rumplestiltskin. In the past, he made deals. Henry did not make a deal with him. He said “no” when he confronted him outside the cave, so this is all a stupid loophole and not even Henry’s fault. It’s not seeing into the future if he just made it happen. Why is our Henry paying the price if he didn’t make a deal?
The scene in the beginning could have been chronological, because all our present day Hyperion Heights characters have been taken to the past. The problem is, unless Wumple is doing some time travel, it seems wrong because he’s here in present day talking to Henry about having had a conversation in the past, and yet young Henry was in Storybrooke a day ago. He couldn’t also be in another realm riding a horse already been acquainted with a princess who’s under a sleeping curse.
One thing that we liked though was the fact that everybody was happy in about 4 minutes back in the Hyperion Heights. It was so happy except for Alice and Nook, whose poisoned heart curse is also back. However, with Gothel gone, shouldn’t it be gone as well?
On the other hand, we liked a couple of things from the episode, some of which were in the happy beginning of the episode, such as Regina making a drink called “The Weed Killer”, and the reappearance of hot cocoa with cinnamon. Beignets is also pretty prominent in this episode, but why does it seem like beignets have magic? Did Drew went around telling people that Dr. Facilier sprinkled trust dust into them?
A lot of people in this episode looks like they are still struggling with being we are both, including Regina who, bless her heart, have been through so many realms and names. In one scene, she even called Dr. Facilier both Samdi AND Facilier. How is Wumple stronger than Rumple? Wumple, apparently, is in the “Love is weakness” mode, which was a good old school reference. Why does he care? Who says that their powers are linked and how did he find out that Rumple is planning to give up his powers to the Guardian?
Rumple’s Issues
How can Wish Rumple just poof people in and out of the Wish Realm, including himself? Blowing out the cupcakes is cool, as it was original to Once Upon a Time theme, with Henry very overtly explaining the reference before they blew out the candles. They’ve said that the Wish Realm, which was made through a wish, is very real so we are not sure if we’re happy or upset that the natural consequence of that decision is happening. One of which is the fact that Regina killed the Wish Realm versions of Snow White and Prince Charming, which they finally acknowledged in this episode. Although we weren’t thrilled to see Wis Henry as a villain, it was interesting to see his dark side. The implications for Regina should be so deep that it seems like it ...

Everything you need to know about this Friday’s episode including synopsis, promotional photos, and the promo in this spoilers-only podcast of 7×21 “Homecoming”!
7×21 “Homecoming”
As the residents of Hyperion Heights celebrate the breaking of the curse, Henry is visited by Wish Rumple, who’s hatched an evil plan to use Ella and Lucy to keep Weaver from destroying the Dark One powers. In order to stop him, Henry, Roni, Weaver and Rogers must travel to the Wish Realm, home to versions of some of our most beloved and fearsome characters. In a flashback, a discouraged Young Henry is visited by Wish Rumple and offered a deal that could have tragic consequences.
“Homecoming” was written by David H. Goodman and directed by Steve Pearlman, with guest stars including Jared Gilmore as Young Henry, Robbie Kay as Peter Pan, Victoria Smurfit as Cruella De Vil, JoAnna Garcia Swisher as Ariel, Timothy Webber as The Apprentice, Rose Reynolds as Alice/Tilly, Tiera Skovbye as Robin/Margot, Jeff Pierre as Prince Naveen/Drew and Trevor Roberts as Remy.
While the promo for “Homecoming” shows a lot, it seems that it consisted of scenes from both this Friday’s episode and the series finale next week. Starting off with Regina talking to Weaver/Rumplestiltskin and asking what Wish Rumple wants. If you recall, when the Wish Realm was introduced back in season 6 when we met Wish Rumple, you may want to remember that Emma and Regina freed Wish Rumple but then Regina killed Wish Snow White and Prince Charming in order to prove Emma that all of that aren’t real. Wish Henry, on the other hand, was on a quest to vengeance against Regina for killing his grandparents, so it is highly possible that it will come back to play. Perhaps that’s why young Henry made a deal with Wish Rumple?
Back to the promo, we then see Henry, Ella and Lucy blowing up candles on a cupcake when Lucy and Ella suddenly disappeared. Turns out, Wish Rumple has them shrunken down and trapped in a snow globe. Wish Rumple told Henry that if he ever wants to see them again, Henry must get the Dark One dagger. What happened to the dagger in the Wish Realm? Did Wish Rumple lost it? Who has his dagger? Are there multiple daggers?
The promo then flashes to some friends that are coming back, and we saw Snow and Charming coming to help Henry, and dressed as Black Knights to come and rescue Regina. Along with Snow White and Prince Charming, there were also flashes of Cruella De Vil, Peter Pan, Emma, and Ariel. We then see Nook, who is finally awake, putting on his hook back. Cutting then to Nook, Henry, Rumple and Regina jumping into a portal. Finally, Rumple is shown face to face with Wish Rumple, saying that the one enemy he can never defeat is himself. Next thing we see, he is holding the dagger up and going to stab Wish Rumple.
As for the photos for “Homecoming”, there were two sets of photos released this week. One was the promotional photos that ABC released, and another set that Entertainment Weekly recently shared. In the promotional photos that ABC released, we don’t see a ton but we do see individual shots of Nook, Rumple, the Blue Fairy with Grumpy standing in the woods and looking at something. Perhaps the Snow White and Prince Charming statue in Wish Realm? There were also some photos of Regina wearing a gorgeous dark red cloak, and another set of Granny with her crossbow out. In another photo, Rumple is seen holding what looks like Thor’s hammer.
As for the series finale photos that Entertainment Weekly released this week, we have a picture of Regina locked up in chains in what looks to...

Operation Hyacinth in full swing, wiping out humanity, Wumple, more Charmed and Buffy references. Plus, a lot of feedback that sums up our brain right now and a special message from Daniel in this full-discussion of “Is This Henry Mills?”
What a great episode! It could definitely pass up as a series finale, which they tied into a nice, neat bow. Written by Dana Horgan and Leah Fong, “Is This Henry Mills?” is, by far, the highest rated episode of the season on IMDb.
All Grown Up in Storybrooke

It was nice to see Storybrooke once again, although it was sad to see them still paying for what the Snow Monster did. Why don’t they just fix it with magic? That being said, it was also really exciting to see the Mayor’s house again, as well as Jared S. Gilmore playing young Henry for the last time. Why did Henry move back in with Regina? Didn’t he live with Emma and Hook? Maybe because Regina has more room, and that Emma and Hook have a new family?
Aside from running the Granny’s Diner, we also learned that Granny is a mechanic. We also liked that they did this storyline, showing what kids go through in the real world; struggling what to do and where to go after High School. We also thought all the letters Henry got were rejection letters because Storybrooke doesn’t really exist so how can he have an education record? It’s weird when they have a flashback without the full cast in it. They’re implying that everyone is in there, even though we know they aren’t. It’s just so quiet in Storybrooke.
On the other hand, Jhack shared a tweet with us about Regina wearing the same outfit she wore in the episode “Save Henry“, when she was trying to tell baby Henry a story at Granny’s.
OH MY GOSH. Regina Wore the exact same outfit that Baby Henry burped in, When she was trying to tell him a story, now he’s all grown up. #Regalbeliever
— Allie (via Twitter, shared by Jhack)
Did anyone catch this nice little Easter egg?
Wiping Out humanity
Meanwhile, in Hyperion Heights, the town looks a little creepy especially with all that lightning in the beginning. We loved how, in the opening scene, Lucy is cowering behind Regina when Gothel suddenly appeared until she threatened Henry. We got some really good feedback about the Gothel storyline, which they wrapped up pretty quickly in this episode in order to move on to the final big bad. While she was there since the beginning, her motives are very wide. There are pieces that seem very consistent, yet there are some that seem very inconsistent. It looks as if some storylines got a little off course along the lines, including the Dr. Facilier storyline, as well as Tiana’s and Jacinda’s.

Regina was so emphatic about not going to Storybrooke since the beginning of the season; it all makes sense. At least, even with that, they are pretty consistent. On the other hand, we really enjoyed Rumplestiltskin and Nook’s exchange about magic. It was also funny when Regina went to hit Gothel with a baseball bat, which she magicked away that it becomes a stake, to which Regina hold up a la Buffy Summers in Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
Although we were pretty happy with how they wrapped up the Gothel storyline, it would’ve been better if they do so in another episode.

7×20 synopsis, promotional photos, dissecting the promo and everything you need to know about this Friday’s episode in this spoilers-only podcast of Spoilers for 7×20 “Is This Henry Mills?” and beyond!
7×20 “Is This Henry Mills?”
Roni enlists Lucy’s help to wake Henry and stop Gothel, but things don’t go as planned. Meanwhile, Rogers and Weaver go to Margot in hopes of freeing Tilly before her magic can be used to power the spell. In a flashback, Young Henry struggles to decide what path to follow until a mysterious phone call helps put him on track.
“Is This Henry Mills?” was written by Dana Horgan and Leah Fong, and directed by Ron Underwood, with guest stars including Jared Gilmore as Young Henry, Beverley Elliott as Granny, Emma Booth as Gothel/Eloise Gardener, Rose Reynolds as Alice/Tilly, Tiera Skovbye as Robin/Margot, Daniel Francis as Dr. Facilier/Mr. Samdi and Jeff Pierre as Prince Naveen/Drew.
While there was a lot going on in the promo for “Is This Henry Mills?”, nothing really happens with what was shown. Starting off the promo for with Lucy talking to Regina/Roni about Henry and Jacinda’s True Love’s Kiss not working when Gothel arrives, saying that Henry’s belief is gone and there’s nothing they can do to bring it back. Moving on then to Rogers with Weaver asking him what is going on in town. Weaver then tells him that everything in Henry’s book is real, cutting then abruptly to Rogers holding a gun up in a cave with Weaver and Margot, probably looking for Tilly. In another scene, Regina asks Henry if he wants to believe, but Henry still insists that they are not fairy tale characters. Regina then goes and attacks Gothel with a bat but Gothel simply holds up her hand and put her down without even looking back at Regina. Cutting then back to the cave and there’s a big fight with Rogers punching the other cop that helped Gothel; someone also gets tossed and in another scene, Lucy shuts the door in Henry’s face. Finally, the promo ends with Young Henry—who looks like preparing for his graduation—suddenly receives a phone call from present day Henry, but who exactly called who? Young Henry to adult Henry or the other way around?
We finally got some photos this week and it focused heavily on Henry touring a university talking to another boy as they stand in a bulletin board that says “Freshmen Drama Club”. There are also several photos of Henry with Regina by his side at the university, umbrellas on hand and standing in the rain.
Did you know any spoilers for “Is This Henry Mills?” that we missed? Share them with us by heading over the spoiler section of the forum, where you can read other information about the upcoming episode this Friday, as well as the final two episodes of the series!

Gothel going all murdery, Regina 2.0, and how Once Upon a Time is a punishment for brilliant actors! Plus, a theory on who might break the curse and more in our in-depth discussion of “Flower Child”!
Of Nymphs and Murder

We finally found out Gothel’s backstory but how did nobody guess that she was a nymph? She’s into plants and trees and stuff, after all. Emma Booth, on the other hand, was amazing as Gothel. She did a really good job at playing a younger version of Gothel. Might Yarrow have survived the attack somehow? Is she in Hyperion Heights? They didn’t show her, or anybody for that matter dead except for Mother Flora.
Like all villains, Gothel was made evil, not born. Basically we see this very typical period house with girls getting ready for a ball and Gothel came in, and suddenly Isla had a plan? What is her deal? How could she have hatched her plan so quickly? When did they go and kill the nymphs all before Gothel went back? How did anyone have time to lay waste to the Nymphs’ home? Although it was somewhat effective, it was weird how it all happened. For continuity’s sake, however, it’s comforting that there was enough magic left.
It was so dark and creepy when Gothel went back to the party and become all murdery. While there have been other murder scene in the past episodes such as pulling hearts out of people’s chest and sword fighting, this episode is a bit more graphic than usual. Interestingly, this episode was written by Edward Kitsis and Adam Horrowitz, which explains the grittiness as well as some of the lines said in the episode.
It was hilarious when Gothel cruelly says, “Some slimy lump will flop ashore and crawl toward humanity again. And, as is their way, it’ll be worse”. It’s not a cycle that repeats itself, so how is it going to happen the exact same way the next time? Not just the form, but the culture, the costumes with no remnants left after such a period of time. But apparently, Gothel is the mother of all the magic in the world. Gothel also said that she will find “others like” them and come back to cleanse the world again. Why wait? Why not just come back before all these restarts she says it will, rebuild and stop it from happening? It’s an interesting concept, but it’s very late in the game to bring it out. It’s not very well-thought-out.
The nymphs in this episode looked comical. The skin color would’ve been enoough, as well as flower crowns instead of butterflies. We did learn some very specific things, however, such as that “magic isn’t as mysterious as people think, it’s all around you if you know where to look.” This complemented well with the whole Lucy and Dr. Facilier looking for a magic story. We also learned that “nothing from the earth ever truly dies. The root are right there, waiting to be reborn”. Is Gothel trying to bring her family back in some way? Mother Flora said what Gothel was destined to blossom into, however, Gothel had not been using her magic for good. Is it going to bite her in some way?
Fresh out of the Coven

In this episode, they kept using the phrase “like you” or “like us”. What does it mean and how many people like them did she kill by wiping all the humans in her world? We looked up the meaning of the name Seraphina and found out that it means “fiery-winged” and was considered one of the most powerful angels. Seraphina is a feminine form of the Late Latin name Seraphinus,

Everything you need to know about this Friday’s episode, plus a theory that follows through a random spoiler we shared way back, in this spoilers-only podcast of “Flower Child”!
7×19 “Flower Child” Spoilers
Tilly and Rogers find themselves in danger after an encounter with Eloise, forcing Tilly to make a life-altering decision when Rogers’ life is threatened. Meanwhile, Henry and Jacinda’s relationship takes a step forward, but despite Lucy’s efforts, their union doesn’t provide the answers she’s seeking. In a flashback, young Gothel seeks revenge after her home is destroyed.
“Flower Child” was written by Edward Kitsis & Adam Horowitz, and directed by Tessa Blake. Based on the press release, it seems like “Flower Child” is the Gothel origin story. If you recall, there was a random spoiler we talked about way back in February about a nymph and how we would be seeing a nymph in this episode. A lot of people suspected that it would be Gothel and it might be true based on the guest stars, which includes Emma Booth as Gothel/Eloise Gardener, Rose Reynolds as Alice/Tilly, Tiera Skovbye as Robin/Margot, Daniel Francis as Dr. Facilier/Mr. Samdi and Jeff Pierre as Naveen/Drew. If you’ll notice, there is no casting for a nymph or for any kind of family members of the nymph, so chances are Emma Booth is going to play the younger version of Gothel and she might be a nymph.
Although the promo for “Flower Child” doesn’t show us much, it’s enough to show that it’s a Gothel-centric episode. It starts off with Gothel in what looks like present day Hyperion Heights saying that it’s time for the Coven to return and according to Drew, a war is brewing in the city and no one is safe. It also looks like Margot knows something as she is seen with Gothel in the promo, unless she just thinks of her as Eloise Gardener and Margot knew her from before. We then see Henry, who is starting to come in realization and talking to Jacinda about what if the book is real. Jumping back to Gothel, she stops Tilly in the streets and tell her she’s her mother. Tilly, who obviously doesn’t know this in present day Hyperion Heights or even in the other realm, confused and the next thing we see, Gothel is taking her away to where we then see hooded figures who we suspect are members of the Coven. Rogers, on the other hand, is fighting to find out to where they’re taking her but Gothel insisted that Tilly’s not the one she’s going to hurt. Did Gothel take Margot and pertains to her being the one she’s going to hurt instead of Tilly? Why did Gothel take Tilly? Perhaps she finds out Tilly is the Guardian and the only way to get the dagger is to use her?
As of this recording, there were no promotional photos yet for the episode. Do you have anything for us regarding this Friday’s episode? Head over the spoiler section of the forum and share them with us along with your theories!
 

Finding the dagger and the Guardian, a day in H-Town, the writers playing Mad Libs and more in our full-discussion of “The Guardian”!
For this episode, they wrapped up storylines quickly and in a way that doesn’t really make sense at all. It wasn’t horrible but not that great, a little frustrating and a bit all over the place. However, there were still some things that are good and interesting that keeps us theorizing.
The Dagger and The Guardian
One thing we really enjoyed much in this episode though is Alice, both in the past and present day. Do they know all along that Alice is the Guardian? Or did they just decided on Alice after finding out the show is ending after the 7th season so they wrapped the Anastasia storyline quickly and made Alice the new Guardian?
They had a lot of rules for engagement for this episode, and Rumplestltskin talked about curing the poisoned heart and it makes sense that it needs just as dark magic, Rumple also said that the only cure for a poisoned heart is to sacrifice someone else’s, but is dark magic really the only way to do it? They also gave a very good definition of the guardian, which is someone who can be a great hero a protector of the Dark One dagger.
Back in the season with the Dark Ones, we theorized that Emma could be the one who could wield both dark and light magic. Say, all the cast didn’t leave at the end of the last season, wouldn’t she be a good candidate for being the Guardian? She wouldn’t even have to change her role title.
my theory: rumple will actually be the guardian. he was destined to be a savior and he will be the savior in the end. he has saved them all in almost every finale, even against his own parents. keep this in mind. Rumple, the most evil, tortured, soul of them all. will in the end, save them all and be final savior. he is his own guardian. his own pure heart will save them all. MARK MY WORDS.
I also believe Emma’s going to come back and kiss Henry in the finale episodes. I just know it. The last curse will be broken, they will be finding a way to help Henry stay alive and Emma will enter the picture and keep him alive. I just know this! Ask me in 3-6 weeks if I was right.
— Faye Weber
If this comes true, it would be a nice throwback to the earlier seasons, both with Emma breaking the curse and Rumple destined to become a Savior. One thing that we learned this episode is that the guardian is necessarily nestled with immortality. So this theory about being Rumplestiltskin being his own Savior is interesting. How will Rumple find another way? After several seasons, they started treating Rumple being the Dark One like Zelena’s jealousy.

It was fun to see Dr. Facilier’s voodoo not working on Rumplestiltskin, although Rumple’s Belle shrine was a little creepy. Aside from that, they keep saying that if Rumple does anything bad, he won’t see Belle. Will Alice accept the guardianship after all if this is the only way to get close with her father? Rumple lied to Alice about why they were going to see Dr. Facilier, then lied in saying he wanted her to kill him, all as a test. Gothel much? Could it be that that’s exactly what Gothel’s been doing and she didn’t necessarily want people dead?
It was nice that Rumple let Alice live a normal life, however, if Alice is destined to be the guardian, will it really be a burden to Alice if Rumplestiltskin let her fulfill her destiny? Is Alice still going to be the guardian? She’s about 90% on the way there, after all.
In season 5A, we’ve learned that the Excalibur and the Dark One d...

Everything you need to know about this Friday’s episode including promo and behind the scenes photos in this spoilers-only podcast of “The Guardian”.
Following Nick’s death, Weaver discovers the Dark One Dagger has been taken and sets out to get it back, even if it means betraying Roni’s trust. Meanwhile, Margot takes Tilly on a date, but their time together takes an unexpected twist. In a flashback, Rumple, desperate to be reunited with Belle, pays Alice a visit.
“The Guardian” was written by David H. Goodman & Brigitte Hales, and directed by Geofrey Hildrew. Hopefully, we finally get to find out who the guardian really is. A lot of people have been theorizing that it’s Alice, while some people thinks it’s Dr. Facilier, while others still think that it’s Henry or someone that we haven’t met. Guest stars for this episode includes Rose Reynolds as Alice/Tilly, Tiera Skovbye as Robin/Margot, Daniel Francis as Dr. Facilier/Mr. Samdi, Nathan Parsons as Nick Branson/Jack and Jeff Pierre as Naveen/Drew.
The promo for “The Guardian” looks more like a big mythology episode, as opposed to a character-centric one, starting off with Weaver in the evidence room noticing that his dagger is missing. Flashing then to Roni talking to Mr. Samdi, asking if he took the dagger, since she know that he wants the dagger. Cutting then to Drew talking to Rogers saying that Mr. Samdi is more powerful than you could imagine. Flashing over to the Enchanted Forest with Nook watching Alice from a distance. In another scene, Nook is seen drawing a sword at Rumplestiltskin, and then another of Rumple telling Nook that he is there to test Alice, for she is destined to become a great hero. There was also a scene in which Alice is in her little house with Rumplestiltskin when Dr. Facilier comes to the door and told Rumple how he’s sending little girls to do his dirty work. Suddenly, Alice is seen ripping out Dr. Facilier’s heart, to which he said that they will pay for it.
We’ve also got some promotional photos for “The Guardian”, consisting of two different scenes. The first one is in the Enchanted Forest where Alice is dressed in her Enchanted Forest gear. There was also a photo of Rumplestiltskin dressed a lot like Mr. Gold would be dressed in Storybrooke, but it’s more Enchanted Forest version. The other set of photos include present day Hyperion Heights with Weaver in his cop clothing in what looks like Mr. Samdi’s apartment with Regina.
Unfortunately, there aren’t any new news to talk about regarding the upcoming episodes but if you know any information that we might have missed, share them all with us by heading over the spoiler section of the forum!

Kelly’s conundrum, Dr. Facilier’s game, and more as we dig into the 150th episode directed by none other than Lana Parrilla. Plus, some Easter Eggs, how the flashbacks fit in the timeline, storytellers and sociopaths in this full-discussion of 7×17 “Chosen”!
We really liked this episode. It’s not what we expected at all.
I was kinda hoping for a more show spanning 150th episode but with not that many episodes left in the series it makes sense to keep moving the show forward.
— Melanie
Since Zelena is off to San Francisco with Chad, will we see her again for the finale? If this isn’t the last time we’ll see her, how will her story wrap up?
It was ashamed that majority of the East Coast didn’t get to see the last few minutes of the episode due to the breaking news that was shown towards the final scene of the episode. Apparently, Dr. Facilier took out the little dust and sprinkled some trust dust on it, stuck a pin in it, killing Nick. At first, we thought it was Gothel who is going to walk in but it was Dr. Facilier. Where is Gothel? It has been two episodes since we last saw her.
Gingerbread House Flashback
The way “Chosen” started was sort of disorienting. It felt like it was a mid-scene; they should’ve focused on the sky or a tree for just a second or two, and then zoomed out. However, we did get an interesting feedback about a couple of Easter Eggs from the episode:
This was honestly one of the best, if not, the best episodes of Once Upon a Time this season. Where have these writers been all this time?
Hansel’s address on his apartment door is 1812, the date the Grimms brothers released the first edition of Hansel and Gretel.
I’m sure many people are confused as to when the flashbacks could have taken place, but judging by the age of Hansel and Gretel 2.0 and with them being the same age as Henry, this could place this around the time of season two, but no later than the Neverland arc of season three as we first met Zelena during the second half after the curse was broken in 3×11 Going Home and everyone was taken back to the Enchanted Forest.
Apart of me was rooting for Hansel to be redeemed so I was kind of sad to see him go.
I find it interesting that Henry’s first friends in the entire series were Hansel and Gretel back in 1×09 True North and the first friend he makes in Enchanted Forest 2.0 is Jack who turns out to be Hansel.
— DeAndre
What is in Henry’s books exactly? Isn’t his book in Hyperion Heights just the story of his life in Storybrooke? Did he include all the stories in the other Once Upon a Time book along with his stories? Henry spoke, when he was trying to relate to Hansel but thinking Hansel’s crazy, of things that he would remember if he were awake, which means that they have to be in his book, which means that his book has to include stuff from wherever he was. Perhaps he knew, when he was writing about Hansel in the book, it’s the other Hansel and he would’ve written only about Jack? If the book ended with him meeting Cinderella, then all of that previous stuff with Jack would still be in the book, because that was when he was younger and anything after meeting Ella was not in the book.
Why are Hansel and Gretel from Oz? If not, what are they doing in Oz? On the other hand, Zelena seems greener than previous episodes. These flashbacks, while they seemed to just poofed into existence to make the story work, we liked this story as we haven’t seen a lot of good vs evil conflict from Zelena from during that time. We have previously when Rumplestiltskin was training her.

All the details you need to know about the 150th episode directed by Lana Parrilla, as well as more Series Finale news you do not want to miss in this spoilers-only podcast of episode 7×17 “Chosen”.
7×17 “Chosen”
Kelly comes face-to-face with The Candy Killer after someone she loves is taken hostage. Meanwhile, Samdi uses Drew to execute a deadly plan. In a flashback, Zelena learns a harsh lesson after an encounter with Hansel and Gretel goes awry.
7×17 “Chosen” was written by Paul Karp & Brian Ridings, and directed by Lana Parrilla, with guest stars including Rebecca Mader as Zelena/Kelly, Tiera Skovbye as Robin/Margot, Nathan Parsons as Nick Branson/Jack, Daniel Francis as Dr. Facilier/Mr. Samdi, Jeff Pierre as Prince Naveen/Drew, Kip Pardue as Chad, Dan Payne as Ivo, Chilton Crane as The Witch, Seth Isaac Johnson as Young Hansel, Lily van der Griend as Young Gretel.
The very confusing promo for “Chosen” starts off with Zelena as the Wicked Witch and Nick/Jack/Hansel the Candy Killer saying that Henry is familiar with her kind of wicked and he needs his help to make her pay. Kelly then goes to Weaver for help, knowing that she’s next on the Candy Killer’s list. Kelly also said that “that witch is the one that me into this mess”. Who is she referring to? The Wicked Witch? Chilton Crane’s character, The Witch? Cutting then to Nick kidnapping Zelena’s Poo Bear aka Chad, threatening her to do as he says.
As confusing as the promo is, the photos for the episode “Chosen” consisted of only one scene again, with Zelena and Regina inside Roni’s bar. In a couple of photos, Zelena is seen sitting at the bar with a bat next to her and in another photo, Regina has a crow bar, obviously on the look out for the Candy Killer. In two separate photos, Zelena and Regina are seen looking out the window, as well. Finally, one photo shows Zelena with a phone in hand, seeming like she knows the Candy Killer has her fiance, Chad.
Series Finale News
As everyone probably knows by now, Ginnifer Goodwin and Josh Dallas are coming back to play the roles of Snow White/Mary Margaret and Prince Charming/David one last time. In an article about the return of Snow and Charming shared by TVLine recently, Adam Horowitz said that the pair will have “a critical role to play in the finale”. TVLine also teased that Andrew J. West and Jared Gilmore will have a scene with each other before the season as over. Speculation is that Gilmore will appear as adult Henry’s subconscious, and Snow and Charming may not exactly play a critical role in the plot sense or expect them to play front, back and center once again, seeing Goodwin and Dallas only filmed for two days. So, Snow White and Charming’s return may not include them saving the day.
TVLine also reported about the return of original Hook, saying that “Colin O’Donoghue will be playing two roles as the series winds down.” O’Donoghue added that he will be having his last day dressed as a pirate for a scene with returning leading lady Jennifer Morrison.
As of this recording, filming for the series is officially over. Newcomers Alison Fernandez (Lucy), Dania J. Ramirez (Jacinda/Cinderella), Rose Reynolds (Tilly/Alice) and Tiera Skobye (Margot/Robin) wrapped a day or so ahead than Robert Carlyle (Rumplestiltskin/Weaver), Colin O’Donoghue (Captain Hook/Nook/Rogers), Rebecca Mader (Zelena/Kelly) and Lana Parrilla (Regina/Roni).

Henry’s story, hunting for the Candy Killer, Tilly at work. Plus, some comparisons between this episode and season 1 episodes as we pick breadcrumbs up from the episode and goes in-depth thematically in our full-discussion of 7×16 “Breadcrumbs”.
Seriously, is someone writing this season with the “Author’s Pen” with the vial of “Squid Ink”?
— Keeper of Squid Ink
Knowing that the next episode is called “Breadcrumbs” when we met Gretel was interesting, except it helped with the surprised when she died. As an episode in general, “Breadcrumbs” was disjointed; the themes of the plot is a bit hard to digest. Some subplots are cool in a sense but if you’re looking for actual plot lines, it was very difficult to follow. That being said, Tilly’s parts were rather enjoyable.
It’s interesting that Smee and Blackbeard haven’t agreed a day and yet they are both Wish Realm characters and should be old and grey as the only one who was aged down was Nook as we saw in episode 7×02 A Pirate’s Life.  Also, I’m pretty sure Blackbeard should be Whitebeard by this time.
— DeAndre
Confused about the timeline as we are? Check out our timelines page where Keb does a great job trying to fit everything together!
Henry’s Story
“Breadcrumbs” was a little bit boring and clichéd, save for the end. It was adorable that they were trying to set Henry up like he was a 10-year-old. And although they spent too much time on the set up, we liked the twist in the end, as well as the last scene of the ruse. We loved Henry’s proposal to Ella, plus when he realized that he doesn’t have to be this big, famous hero.
I don’t know how my story goes, I wasn’t born in a land with magic and I may not get a fairy tale life with a perfect ending.  But you are the best and bravest woman that I have ever met and if you could make a leap of faith with me, I would like to build a house right here for the two of us and see what kind of a life we can make together. It is just a pretty ring. And just like this lake it doesn’t come with anything else.  Ella, I can’t offer you a legend, but I can offer you my heart.
And even before Henry’s proposal, he said, “I don’t need a great story, I just want a great life; the best life I can make with the people I love”. That’s all most of us can hope for, anyway. It was a pretty good payoff for sitting through another tale of Henry’s insecurity, which we loved.
Going back a little bit about our “Sisterhood” podcast, Michelle sent us a feedback about Flynn’s Barcade:
In regards, to your podcast on ”Sisterhood” ONCE333, and on your discussion of the Flynn’s Barcade in the episode,  it is a reference to Tron Legacy (2010),  in which in the film, Flynn’s Arcade is shown in the beginning and ending of the film and the main character is called  Kevin Flynn played by Jeff Bridges. Also the screenplay and story is by Edward Kitsis and Adam Horowitz.
— Michelle
Prince Henry of Storybrooke is actually pretty accurate, so it’s a bit confusing why he left in the first place to “find his own story.” Everybody else is a character in someone else’s story and he is the grandson of Snow White and Prince Charming. He also brought the Savior, Emma Swan back to break the curse and fight the final battle. Why does Henry think he needs to realm jump and find some other story book that he thinks he’s in?

Episode 7×16 “Breadcrumbs” details including press release, photos and promo, plus more information on the series finale in this spoilers-only podcast of “Breadcrumbs”!
7×16 “Breadcrumbs”
Henry grapples with an important decision when a job prospect in New York threatens to take him away from Jacinda and Lucy, but a revelation in the case of The Candy Killer could make it even harder to leave Hyperion Heights. Meanwhile, Margot confides in Tilly, and in a flashback, Hook helps Henry find a way to prove himself to Ella.
“Breadcrumbs” was written by Jane Espenson & Jerome Schwartz, and directed by Ron Underwood, with guest stars including Rebecca Mader as Zelena/Kelly, Rose Reynolds as Alice/Tilly, Tiera Skovbye as Robin/Margot, Nathan Parsons as Nick Branson/Jack, Christopher Gauthier as Smee and Charles Mesure as Blackbeard.
Starting off the promo for “Breadcrumbs” is Zelena saying that she wants the curse broken just as much as Lucy does. Perhaps because of Robin or that she can go back to her life and reveal everything to the man she is supposed to marry? We have yet to meet him, after all.
Jumping then to the new Enchanted Forest with Henry searching for his story. However, if this episode is about Henry finding a way to prove himself to Ella, does this mean this happened before they went to Wonderland or is it after and he’s still trying to prove himself to her? Back to the promo, we see The Candy Killer again and it looks like The Candy Killer is a fan of Henry’s work when Weaver showed Henry the book. But what does being a fan of Henry’s book if the story was about the first six seasons of the show? What does the murder of witches from an entirely different universe from the one that’s Snow White and Charming came from has to do with Henry’s book? Also in the promo, Henry doesn’t understand the stories and what they mean, even though he wrote the book (because he’s cursed and nothing makes sense in the book). If Nick really is The Candy Killer, does that mean that he’s awake? How? Why?
Flashing then to the final scene in the promo and it’s Henry outside and wanting to go see Jacinda right away and tell her how he feels. Nick then asked Henry to hop on his car, offering to help him get everything Henry deserves.
Unlike last week, the set of promotional photos for “Breadcrumbs” consisted only of one scene, with Henry in the evidence room with Weaver, looking through a bunch of books. In another photo, Rogers comes in and joined Henry and Weaver. Like per usual, the photos this week doesn’t give us anything to speculate about.
Going back a little to the promo, Henry and Nook are seen sailing a pirate ship, then later on a pirate fight ensues. Smee was also featured in the flashback in the promo.
Series Finale News
As of this recording, the cast have been filming the series finale for a little over the week now and there were quite a few photos that came in when they spent some time filming in Steveston. Among of which are images of Robin and Alice with Sabine’s Rolling Bayou food truck, which ended up in Storybrooke for some  reason. Maybe Robin decided to take Alice home to see Storybrooke? Another set of photos also include Zelena and Regina in Storybrooke, with one photo featuring the real Mayor of Steveston dedicating March 29 as Official Once Upon a Time Day after shooting there for 7 years.
Jennifer Morrison also returned to Vancouver to reprise her role as Emma Swan to film her final scene. Based on filming, Morrison’s return will be incredibly minor...

Finding Anastasia, the little supernatural sewing circle, as well as the office building showdown, and Operation Bromance. Plus, a crackpot theory on who the new Guardian is, who the Candy Killer is and more in our in-depth discussion of “Sisterhood”!
7×15 “Sisterhood”, as a whole, wasn’t a bad episode. However, it’s certainly not as good as last week’s either. There are some definite issues but we aren’t super mad about them because we understand that by the time the episode was produced, they knew that this is the final season anyway. They are also seemingly wrapping things up rather fast. For instance, our theory about Anastasia being the Guardian was correct and was proven in one sentence. How did Drizella know that Anastasia is, indeed, the Guardian? Drizella seems to know a lot about things that we didn’t know about. It was also nice to finally find out that what Rumplestiltskin really wants by “getting back to Belle” meant that he actually just wants to die when he was told about his desire to “join Belle in the afterlife”.
However, with only 7 episodes left, they do have to wrap things quickly. And with Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. having the same episode number as Once Upon a Time, a 2-hour finale might not happen like we usually had in the past seasons.
Hey all, I’m a long time listener and infrequent feedbacker and just wanted to share some thoughts I’ve had on this season so far.  In general, while I don’t love this season, I don’t hate it. I really like the dynamic between Alice and Robyn, but was very disappointed this week when we didn’t see either character. It’s really hard to get invested in a story when you see a character one time and then not again for several weeks. I feel like each episode stands alone and doesn’t feel like there’s any form of coherent story. When they have so many stories going on at once, it becomes really hard to follow. Between Henry and Jacinda, the basic Hyperion Heights plot, Alice (and Hook) and Robyn, Zelena, the Guardian, Cinderella’s story, Tiana and Facillier, Gothel and the Coven, and likely more that I’m forgetting about, it is so hard to see what part of the story I should be focusing on. And I feel that a lot of viewers are also probably struggling with the longing for unresolved stories of the past. Additionally, it feels like they’re still opening up new stories, and I’m still waiting for all of the current ones to be tied together, and it really doesn’t feel like that’s possible with not just 7 episodes left in this season, but the series. And it would feel like an incomplete ending if the series as a whole wasn’t resolved in addition to the season 7 stories.
— Widdy
When you put it like that, they definitely need to send the girls home, though it will probably create some problems that we’ll get to in the next episodes, such as Gretel’s death. Will it carry on in the next episode? Or is that storyline done and over?

We talked about the spiral on Alice as well as Ella’s dad because their hearts were poisoned in the past podcast and its relevance, and found the spiral in the movie Moana. In the movie, Moana carried a rock with a spiral on it, which is the representative of the heart. While we don’t think they’re going to bring Moana into the series anymore, it was a nice nod to the movie.
Finding Ana

What was the significance of Drizella and Anastasia playing ...

7×15 “Sisterhood” spoilers plus more on the series finale including the biggest names coming back and other filming details in this spoilers-only podcast for this Friday’s episode!
7×15 “Sisterhood” Spoilers
When the Candy Killer attacks, Ivy will have to risk what remains of her family, while Jacinda and Henry grow closer and Roni questions her relationship with Samdi. Meanwhile, Drizella faces an unthinkable challenge in her attempt to join the Witch’s Coven.
“Sisterhood” was written by Christopher Hollier & Adam Karp, and directed by Ellen S. Pressman. Guest starring in this episode are Adelaide Kane as Drizella/Ivy, Emma Booth as The Witch/Gothel/Eloise Gardener, Daniel Francis as Dr. Facilier/Mr. Samdi, Yael Yurman as Anastasia, Anna Cathcart as Young Drizella, Nathan Parsons as Nick Branson/Jack, Sara Canning as Gretel, and Bruce Blain as Desk Sergeant.
In the promo for “Sisterhood” features the candy killer. Who is the candy killer? He doesn’t look short, and if you come back to when Dr. Sage was killed, the one who cut a lock of her hair looked like a woman’s hand, so who is killing the witches?
The promo for “Sisterhood” in the other realm with Regina talking to Drizella telling her that she will find a way to help her if she gives up on the curse. Drizella, of course, seemed like she doesn’t want Regina’s help as she’s seen choking Regina in the next scene. Sara Canning, who guest stars as Gretel, is 30 years old so she’s probably going to appear in Hyperion Heights instead of the new Enchanted Forest, so what is her involvement in all these? Flashing forward to Hyperion Heights, the promo for “Sisterhood” continues with Drizella in a parking lot when the Candy Killer appears. Why is he called a Candy Killer? Is Gretel the Candy Killer? Drizella then comes to Regina for help, but Regina told her that if Drizella wants her help then she should help her find the fix for Henry; find a way to cure Henry and she’ll help protect her from the Candy Killer. In the next scene, Gold is also seen with Regina, saying that they need to get to Anastasia before Ivy does. In another scene, Drizella, Anastasia, Dr. Facilier and Gothel were all in what looks like Victoria Belfry’s office and it looks like Drizella wants to talk to Anastasia and see if they can work out their problems. However, Anastasia says there’s nothing left to say and does some magic with wind storm and glass shattering.
Series Finale Spoilers
As of this recording, there are no episode photos released yet, but we found out that Jennifer Morrison, Ginnifer Goodwin, Josh Dallas and Emilie de Ravin are all going to come back for the series finale to reprise their roles as Emma Swan, Snow White/Mary Margaret, Prince Charming/David, and Belle. Jennifer Morrison is actually in Vancouver as of this recording, donning an Emma Swan wig. No word yet as to when Goodwin and Dallas are going to come over and how long Jennifer Morrison is staying, because they are actually going back to Steveston to film for the finale, as well. In line with this, we don’t know yet whether Morrison is going to Steveston or not.
People have been speculating about the title of the series finale episode, “Leaving Storybrooke.” Did they mean it in the literal sense or more metaphorically? Are they actually leaving Storybrooke and are going back to the Enchanted Forest, or is it because the show is ending so, technically, we all are leaving Storybrooke in a way?
Did we miss any spoilers for this coming Friday’s episode? Show more...