Episode 4 Raising Hell

As a Queer person who has been greatly impacted by the Malec couple and storyline, this review is heavily focused on them.

This is the episode that gives us the beginning of Malec - one of the most ground breaking and important Queer couple of modern media.

Jace, I know you’re new to emotions so let me help you out. This one is jealousy. Ask Alec. He can teach you all about it.

And in this scene, we have Jace Wayland as Captain America…

‘You don’t get to talk to me, Captain America.’

Seriously, Simon has some of the best lines in this show. I know this one stems from a mix of vampire venom and jealousy, but it’s so good.

I love this team meeting about Magnus. This group really knows how to emphasize a guys mystery. Just wait, tho, guys. He’s so much more!

And is it just me, or does Alec have a hard time taking his eyes off that screen?!

The debate as to whether straight actors should play Queer roles is currently a hot topic, again. I am one of those Queers that is not bothered by it, as long as the actor handles the role with grace, care, and authenticity. They must portray the character as honestly as they can and they must give the LGBTQIA+ Community the respect and love we deserve.

Harry Shum Jr does that in spades with Magnus!

I just love suspicious grumpy cat Alec!

“Who are you?”

While it is not an official meeting, this is the first time our beloved Malec comes face to face when Alec saves Magnus from an attack by a Circle member. And I love how taken Magnus is with Alec!

I really hate when Alec and Jace fight. However, everything that Alec says, here, is spot on. Clary has been dead set on doing everything her way and has caused nothing but trouble for Alec and his position at the Institute.

This Parabatai tracking is so intense. Everything about Alec and Jace is. My heart breaks for Alec every single time.

Jace, please explain to me, how you can be that close to Alec, see him look at you like that, be that intimate, and not realize his feelings.

Or maybe you do and pretend not to so as to not hurt him. But wouldn’t Alec sense that? Yeah, I am the last one to try to understand this Parabatai thing. As someone who doesn’t understand intimacy and falling in love - I am highly un-qualified.

Here it is, kids. The reason we’re all here. Well, the cool kids anyway. The birth of Malec as they finally, officially meet. How adorable is Alec as he struggles to speak. And that smile! Yep, he is immediately taken with Magnus.

Oh gods, I adore Magnus so much! So outspoken and honest with just the right amount of flamboyant. Sheer perfection.

And yes, Alec, he is flirting with you.

“Pretty boy, get your team ready.” “I’m not talking to you. I’m talking to you.”

Such a hilarious and entertaining way for Magnus to put Jace in his place and stroke Alec’s almost non existent ego. It's pure gold.

Then Alec’s shrug and smug face as Jace looks at him in confusion is absolutely hilarious. I love these early days of Magnus flirting with poor Alec.

Another great Malec flirty moment - when Magnus makes the comment about Michaleangelo being great in bed and then looking at Alec.

Another bewildered look from Jace and nonchalant shrug from Alec - it’s an excellent scene. And so beautifully done by Harry, Matt, and Dom.

I love how observant Izzy is. Hell, I just love Izzy.

Oh Alec! So scared of the truth of himself that he almost sets a Greater Demon free. It will get better, sweet boy. I promise.

With each episode, we learn more and more about our Shadowhunters and the world they protect. See you next time for Moo Shu to Go.