Angel goes to visit a swami for help dealing with his feelings about Darla, leaving Wesley to take on the role of his boss when thugs arrive threatening Cordelia unless Angel goes with them.

Kicking off in traditional style with Wesley falling over things left and right, this is the story that comprehensively establishes him as a major star and a vital addition to the team. Watching as he tries to remember everything he has to do as a vampire (covering mirrors so his reflection can’t be seen, backtracking through a door when he forgets he has to be invited in) is hilarious, and you just know that any second he’s going to be shown up. The fact that he’s got Angel’s reputation protecting him is a neat way of keeping his temporarily safe, but it’s clearly not going to save him forever.

Wesley is also presented as a very human man, finding himself attracted to the woman he is protecting and getting a chance to find a friend, something unusual considering his line of work. Both individuals come across as hurt in some way, and you’re left wishing they could stay together as they make a strong connection and have great chemistry.

Meanwhile, the fake swami is oddly effective, and provides some interesting insights into Angel and how he’s constantly trying to keep his vampire self in check, making him a man constantly at odds with himself. When things come to a head towards the end, it’s also great to see Wesley taking charge and Angel being left coming out with lines like ‘That’s my coat…’ and protesting that he isn’t a eunuch, something that has apparently spread around the evil community. Funny, scary on several levels and a good insight into two of the main characters, this episode is excellent.

****

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