The Tripods (1984) Episode 6

Henry and Beanpole want to leave for the White Mountains as soon as possible, while Will, even after the Black Guards learn of their presence at Chateau Ricordeau, continues to argue for their staying - although the Count agrees that the boys must be eventually capped. Matters become more complicated as Will and Eloise fall in love, and Will saves Eloise's life when she nearly drowns.

 

JL - Will sensibly decides to leave before the Count can touch him intimately but then goes and rescues Eloise from drowning and gets offered her hand in marriage. Dilemma!

 

JL - Ooh, kisses. It's not a snog, but it's promising.

 

IB - Will caused Eloise to fall overboard and disappear under the water. He's a ladykiller alright.

JL - Someone must have wrung her wet turban out because it's still on her head even in bed.

 

JL - Aw, Will is now a son to them. We have a tradition in Chateau Ricardo, where the Count fucks his sons.

 

IB - It's all very quick and not believable in the slightest. Will looks to one side in angst. Cue credits...

 

 

The Count and Countess have fully accepted Will's presence and desire he stays and marries Eloise. They become engaged, and Henry and Beanpole do not know how Will will be able to choose between Eloise and freedom in the White Mountains.

 

JL - Will's waistcoat is too tight. These little things annoy me. Everytime he moves he looks like he's going to burst the seams.

 

IB - 'She's trapped you better than any Tripod'. That's a great line!

 

JL - Shame it's followed by the lamest girlyslap ever when Will loses his rag with Henry. Ginger Fatboy retaliates with a punch to Will's gut, which is loads meatier.

 

IB - Beanpole is superb as mediator. These episodes continue to strengthen character.

 

 

Meanwhile the Duc de Sarlat continues to fume over Will's infatuation with Eloise, and demands that the three boys leave soon or he will turn them in to the Black Guards. Coming up is the Tournament, a group of games at the Chateau, and this year it is to be attended by a Tripod. Despite this Will decides to stay while his friends leave for the White Mountains.

 

IB - Sarlat is planning his evil machinations in a very obvious way. There isn't going to be a twist in this story.

 

JL - Yeah: of all the people gathered here, who could possibly betray the boys and put a stop to their noble quest? I wonder! Sarlat's posh voice is so nasty. Bad toff! He thinks the old count is a fool.

 

JL - 'This year the tournament will be special'. You don't know the half of it you silly count.