Ep 1. Rapunzel

In season 2 of Faerie Tale Theatre, the first episode brings the classic German fairy tale of Rapunzel to life. The episode begins with a young couple who long for a child. In desperation, they turn to a witch's garden to steal some of her greens. But they get caught, and the witch demands that they give her their child in exchange for her overlooking their crime. They agree, and the witch takes the baby girl and raises her as her own.

Fast-forward some years, and the witch has locked Rapunzel in a tower in the middle of the forest, with no access save a window on the top floor. Her long hair has grown to be several feet long, and she spends her days singing and talking to the animals outside her window. But everything changes when a handsome prince stumbles upon the tower and Rapunzel's enchanting voice. They fall in love and plan an escape. The evil witch, however, is not ready to let her beloved daughter go so easily.

The episode is directed by Mark Cullingham and features a talented cast of actors, including Shelley Duvall as Rapunzel, Jeff Bridges as the prince, and Gena Rowlands as the witch. The sets and costumes reflect the mystical and ethereal nature of the story, with the forest and tower being especially memorable. The music by Thomas Chase and Steve Rucker is whimsical and adds to the charm of the episode.

One of the most striking elements of this adaptation is the way it fleshes out the characters. Instead of just presenting the witch as an evil being who imprisons Rapunzel, the episode shows the witch as a complex character who sees herself as Rapunzel's savior. She sings to Rapunzel throughout her life, and it's not hard to see why Rapunzel would have a deep emotional attachment to her, despite her imprisonment.

The relationship between Rapunzel and the prince is also developed in a poignant way. The two don't just fall in love because they happen to meet each other. Instead, they bond over their shared love for music and art. They have a deep connection that comes across strongly onscreen.

Overall, the episode does a fantastic job of capturing the magic and wonder of the original fairy tale. It's not afraid to explore the darker elements of the story, but also never loses its sense of whimsy and romanticism. It's a great start to a new season of Faerie Tale Theatre, and sure to delight viewers of all ages.