Ep 4. Raising Hell

The fourth episode of Shadowhunters season 1 titled Raising Hell takes the story forward, as Clary, Jace, and Alec receive a vital clue in their hunt for the Mortal Cup. They find a demon downworlder who leads them to the High Warlock of Brooklyn, Magnus Bane, who might possess the answers that they need. But, before they can get any answers from Magnus, they need to gain his trust. In order to do that, Magnus puts Alec in a difficult position, asking him to compromise his integrity to get what they want.

Meanwhile, Simon gets involved with the vampires of New York City, who are unhappy with the current leadership of their clan. When the vampire clan leader Camille (who happens to be Simon's former flame) asks for his help, he can't refuse her. She wants him to take a message to the Clave, but Simon is unaware of the danger he is getting himself into.

The episode features an action-packed sequence, where Clary, Jace, and Alec go hunting for a clue with the help of the demon downworlder they captured. The trio uses their knowledge of demon hunting and fighting to face a formidable foe that tries to stop them from getting the information they need. This thrilling sequence showcases the strengths of each character as they work together as a team for the first time.

The tension between Alec and Magnus continues to rise as Magnus makes him an offer that Alec can't refuse. The episode offers a deeper insight into their relationship and builds on the chemistry between the two actors. The conversation between the two characters is intense and reveals a lot about their motivations and personalities.

The story also delves into Simon's character, who is torn between his loyalties to both the Shadowhunters and the vampires. Simon's arc is interesting to watch as he tries to balance his relationships with the two groups and navigate through the complex politics of the supernatural world.

Apart from the main story arc, the episode also features a subplot involving Izzy and her relationship with her roommate, Meliorn. The subplot adds depth to Izzy's character and sheds light on her vulnerabilities. It also gives the audience a glimpse into the politics of the downworlder community.

Overall, the episode is an enjoyable watch with well-paced action sequences, nuanced character development, and intriguing storylines. It sets the stage for future episodes and leaves the audience wanting more.