Wow... I'm just speechless. Coming off of tonight's episode of The Flash (which was amazing), I didn't know how Arrow could compete, but it does. With all the 10/10s I've been giving this season I don't know how to even give Arrow more praise this season than what I have already given it. Somehow it has managed to get even better. This is another one of Arrow's best episodes ever. From the start I already knew we were in from a treat. A time loop episode? That's an awesome concept. One of Legends Of Tomorrow's best episodes was a time loop episode, and I'm glad to say this was one of Arrow's best. I really appreciated how they didn't waste any time with the protagonist not understanding the situation. It always annoys me when in movies or TV shows it takes the characters so long to realize they're in a time loop when it seems pretty obvious to the audience. To have Oliver get it after the second loop was refreshing, and I'm glad they didn't waste more time than they had to. I also really love how must of the characters got the situation early on. I mean it makes sense that after all the weird things that happen in the show they would finally trust Oliver enough. This entire episode was needed to test Oliver. It's pretty crazy to think that after over 150 episodes and 8 seasons the writers are able to finds ways to continue developing the protagonist, and doing it well. Oliver finally accepting his fate is something that I hoped would be explored and this episode does it perfectly. Even Laurel got her little bit of closure. Seeing Paul Blackthorne back as Quentin Lance was definitely emotional and it brought for some beautiful moments. The performances have just been so good this season. Laurel's closure with Quentin, Quentin telling Oliver to accept his fate, these are some of the best performed scenes on the show. Even if that wasn't enough they just bring their A-Game to every aspect of this episode. The camera work and cinematography has been especially good this season, and this episode is no exception. That long take of Oliver and Quentin running through the hallways and fighting has to be one of Arrow's best fight scenes ever. This episode just hits all the right marks right in the center. I didn't think this season could get better, but somehow it just keeps getting better. I think this is the best episode of the season so far, and that's incredible praise when over half of the episodes thus season have been 10/10s (10/10 for an episode of Arrow). The final part of this episode explains what the Monitor has been doing. I've mentioned how this season has left a lot of things unexplained, and a lot of things to feel pretty contrived or convenient for the sake of fan service. Now these episodes have been amazing don't get me wrong, but this episode does mostly explain it. It makes sense that the Monitor is testing Oliver for his fate, and each episode has had a lesson for Oliver to learn. Yes the plot's of these episodes sometimes feel contrived, convenient, there have even been some inconsistencies and holes to make them work, but for the most part it does work. As a whole I do think this is going to hurt the season, but I think it was done to the best of their ability to excuse some of these flaws. That last scene where Oliver is finally ready and has come to terms with everything felt earned, and it makes you see how far we've come in this journey. There's only 4 episodes left of this show. We've hit highs and lows, but I'm glad it seems like it's ending at its highest. The next episode looks absolutely incredible. It has truly been a journey. I want to thank everyone who made this episode possible for another spectacular episode. Thank you.
21 Reviews
Arrow keeps delivering this season with another one of it's best episodes...
EddyTheMartian00727 November 2019
Warning: Spoilers
"Reset" Hits Hard With Some Of Arrow's Most Emotional Scenes Yet...
Sam_Ash_7627 November 2019
Warning: Spoilers
I didn't look up any information about this particular episode of "Arrow" because of Quentin Lance's return, I didn't want to be spoiled about any of the details... and it paid off. My favorite film of all time is "Groundhog Day" and this episode was a match made in heaven when it came to my personal tastes in film / TV.
I absolutely loved the way that this episode used emotion, Quentin being the person that Oliver needed to have that final conversation with was pretty devastating, especially because he stands as being in my top 3 characters of the entire series. Laurel getting some much needed closure with Quentin after the season six finale was also a highlight during this one's runtime.
I've always adored the episodes that focus purely on Oliver, and this one does just that. It reminded me of classics like, "Three Ghosts", "Kapiushon" and "Fundamentals" from seasons past. I think that Stephen Amell and Paul Blackthorne bring their 'A' game when it comes to the emotional scenes, you really feel the years that they've spent on screen together during this episode.
Having Lyla being the person that betrays Oliver, Diggle and Laurel was a good choice given Diggle's relationship with her and the past seasons that shes spent on screen. I also loved the cliffhanger bringing all of our heroes back to where it all began... Lian Yu... its Mandarin for Purgatory.
I cannot wait for next week's episode, I feel like the best is yet to come, and when this episode feels like the best that "Arrow" has to offer, it makes me even more excited to think of an episode of better quality. The writers have really upped their game this year.
Score: 10/10
I absolutely loved the way that this episode used emotion, Quentin being the person that Oliver needed to have that final conversation with was pretty devastating, especially because he stands as being in my top 3 characters of the entire series. Laurel getting some much needed closure with Quentin after the season six finale was also a highlight during this one's runtime.
I've always adored the episodes that focus purely on Oliver, and this one does just that. It reminded me of classics like, "Three Ghosts", "Kapiushon" and "Fundamentals" from seasons past. I think that Stephen Amell and Paul Blackthorne bring their 'A' game when it comes to the emotional scenes, you really feel the years that they've spent on screen together during this episode.
Having Lyla being the person that betrays Oliver, Diggle and Laurel was a good choice given Diggle's relationship with her and the past seasons that shes spent on screen. I also loved the cliffhanger bringing all of our heroes back to where it all began... Lian Yu... its Mandarin for Purgatory.
I cannot wait for next week's episode, I feel like the best is yet to come, and when this episode feels like the best that "Arrow" has to offer, it makes me even more excited to think of an episode of better quality. The writers have really upped their game this year.
Score: 10/10
Action packed, fast paced and great time loop episode
Holt34427 November 2019
The Arrow veteran, David Ramsey is the one that directed this fine episode, it's a great one! It's a filler though, but it fills the gap with Quentin which is fantasticly played by Paul Blackthorne as he died in a previous season, it feels great to have him back as a main character for one episode. This episode has similarities from the Legends of Tomorrow episode which also had a time loop but it works in Arrow because of The Monitor. It's an entertaining episode but far from as good as the others. It's still an amazing episode!
Fight choreography was on point, showing off Green Arrow's gadgets and it was entertaining plus the shot in one take made it so much better, it was action packed. What comes after this episode will probably be incredible, I can't wait!
Fight choreography was on point, showing off Green Arrow's gadgets and it was entertaining plus the shot in one take made it so much better, it was action packed. What comes after this episode will probably be incredible, I can't wait!
Fantastic episode
jbistiz27 November 2019
Warning: Spoilers
What a fantastic episode! The acting was great, and seeing Quentin again was amazing! There was just so many emotions in this episode! I love when the Arrowverse does Groundhog Day inspired episodes! I loved all the Oliver and Laurel, Oliver and Quentin, and Laurel and Quentin scenes together! I love how Laurel got to tell Quentin how much he meant to her, and finally got her goodbye with him.
Also fantastic Director job by David Paul Ramsey!
Also fantastic Director job by David Paul Ramsey!
Ghosts of Future Past
highmarksreviews27 November 2019
If any of you thought that Arrow peaked with this finale season in its first chapter, "Starling City", this episode is the reason why. Or more specifically its formula. What the last two-three episodes have largely failed at is the delicate balancing act of Crisis build-up, spectacle and heart. "Starling City" had all, with nostalgia, top-notch action and set pieces along with a huge push towards intergalactic annihilation. "Reset" works because it nails this juggling act. And it does so with excellence.
The much-anticipated return of Paul Blackthorne's Quentin Lance did not disappoint. This is the Quentin we know and love. A stern, duty-bound father-figure to all. This was more than just an extended cameo though. Lance was this episode's biggest factor to success. Without the emotional, heartfelt hellos and goodbyes shared with Oliver (Stephen Amell) and Laurel (Katie Cassidy), I don't think "Reset" would have worked as well as it did.
Stephen Amell was, once again, in fine form. Oliver has been getting more and more exhausted and sad every episode. Heck, even his hair is unkept. It's amazing to see that Amell can turn in such powerhouse performances at every turn. It's both amazing and sad. Amazing, that his character has endured so much and still finds ways to see the right path and sad because, well his inevitable demise is edging closer.
It was also a treat to see David Ramsey have a second go at directing. I enjoyed sections of his first attempt last season. I still don't think it was the best episode for him to tackle, but there were several little kinks that he did that I hadn't seen others do. Here, oh boy! The fluid, almost dance-like camera movements help sell the convoluted, fast-paced story. And that warehouse fight! What a oner! Arrow has done a lot of ambitious and cool fight scenes in its 8 year run, but I haven't anything quite like this. Definitely a favourite!
We also got the Crisis momentum we needed. Although I would have preferred LaMonica Garrett's imposing mutton-chopped space god instead of Lyla (Audrey Marie Anderson) foretelling the catastrophe, we now fully grasp The Monitor as a character. Moreover, we know what his endgame is. And that of his nasty twin too...
"Reset" is destined to be a classic Arrow episode. It's just spectacular and memorable. Its formula is familiar, but done to perfection and its use of Paul Blackthorne leads to some of the most emotionally satisfying moments of the show. David Ramsey's unique directorial talents are on full-display as he brings us an immaculate action sequence to shake things up. And what is set up for next week look absolutely bonkers!
The much-anticipated return of Paul Blackthorne's Quentin Lance did not disappoint. This is the Quentin we know and love. A stern, duty-bound father-figure to all. This was more than just an extended cameo though. Lance was this episode's biggest factor to success. Without the emotional, heartfelt hellos and goodbyes shared with Oliver (Stephen Amell) and Laurel (Katie Cassidy), I don't think "Reset" would have worked as well as it did.
Stephen Amell was, once again, in fine form. Oliver has been getting more and more exhausted and sad every episode. Heck, even his hair is unkept. It's amazing to see that Amell can turn in such powerhouse performances at every turn. It's both amazing and sad. Amazing, that his character has endured so much and still finds ways to see the right path and sad because, well his inevitable demise is edging closer.
It was also a treat to see David Ramsey have a second go at directing. I enjoyed sections of his first attempt last season. I still don't think it was the best episode for him to tackle, but there were several little kinks that he did that I hadn't seen others do. Here, oh boy! The fluid, almost dance-like camera movements help sell the convoluted, fast-paced story. And that warehouse fight! What a oner! Arrow has done a lot of ambitious and cool fight scenes in its 8 year run, but I haven't anything quite like this. Definitely a favourite!
We also got the Crisis momentum we needed. Although I would have preferred LaMonica Garrett's imposing mutton-chopped space god instead of Lyla (Audrey Marie Anderson) foretelling the catastrophe, we now fully grasp The Monitor as a character. Moreover, we know what his endgame is. And that of his nasty twin too...
"Reset" is destined to be a classic Arrow episode. It's just spectacular and memorable. Its formula is familiar, but done to perfection and its use of Paul Blackthorne leads to some of the most emotionally satisfying moments of the show. David Ramsey's unique directorial talents are on full-display as he brings us an immaculate action sequence to shake things up. And what is set up for next week look absolutely bonkers!
Good stuff
hollybeat27 November 2019
I see all the other mentions of "Groundhog Day" and Edge of Tomorrow but I was more reminded of the STNG episode "Cause and effect " where the crew was caught in a loop that kept ending with the Enterprises destruction. Both required serious deductions to escape said loops. Both are also great episodes
Fate
ThomasDrufke27 November 2019
Warning: Spoilers
When Stephen Amell tweets out that this episode is one of the best the show has ever done, my expectations are pretty high. And thankfully, 'Reset' is exactly the type of episode the season needed. The stakes have returned, the episode put its focus solely back on Oliver, and the emotional punch hit harder in this episode than it has for anything else this season. This is of course in large thanks to the return of Paul Blackthorne as Quentin Lance in an alternate reality of the current timeline. Taking cues from Groundhog Day, Edge of Tomorrow, and an episode from season 3 of Legends of Tomorrow titled 'Here I go Again', this week Oliver found himself in a time loop where he has to come to terms with his fate. It feels like the first time we've got real answers about why The Monitor is putting Oliver through these tests week to week, and the idea that it was all to get Oliver to accept his fate surprisingly made a lot of sense to me. Now, the real question is will he actually be dead by show's end? I'm still up in the air with that right now. Special shoutout to David Ramsey for being at the helm for this episode. Now, onto the 'Last Mission', Lian Yu.
9.3/10
9.3/10
Oliver Queen is stuck in a time loop!
RahulM00727 November 2019
Warning: Spoilers
The episode fittingly titled "Reset" focuses on Oliver and Laurel figuring out how to escape this time loop. I loved every moment of this episode and was completed invested in it. The heart to heart talks Quentin had with Oliver and Laurel were poignant and extremely emotional. I am excited to see him again during the series finale. It will probably hit me more than this episode did.
A Groundhog Day inspired episode is a nice change in pace and tone for this season. It was incredibly emotional and bittersweet how Quentin returned and interacted with Oliver and Laurel. The premise of the episode felt quite familiar and was an obvious reference to the Bill Murray classic "Groundhog day."
While the premise was familiar, it was still a joy to watch an episode of Arrow centering around the main character trying to escape a time loop orchestrated by the Monitor. The Monitor did not appear, but his right-hand woman Lyla Michaels aka Harbinger did.
This episode of Arrow was reminiscent to the 100th episode of the series. It felt like a homage to the 100th episode. The 100th episode was a love letter to the fans, while the entire final season is a love letter to the show's history and obviously to the fans.
My favorite scene of the episode must be when Laurel says goodbye to Quentin and thanked him for always believing in her. The scene was heartfelt and touching and even made me cry a little. Katie Cassidy's performance was amazing and her chemistry with Paul Blackthorne shines in this scene.
To conclude, this episode ticked all the right boxes and was filled with stellar performances from Katie Cassidy, Paul Blackthorne and Stephen Amell. I am enthused to see what will happen in next week's episode, now that Oliver is facing his final test from the Monitor. Hopefully, the Monitor will appear in episode 7 titled "Purgatory."
A Groundhog Day inspired episode is a nice change in pace and tone for this season. It was incredibly emotional and bittersweet how Quentin returned and interacted with Oliver and Laurel. The premise of the episode felt quite familiar and was an obvious reference to the Bill Murray classic "Groundhog day."
While the premise was familiar, it was still a joy to watch an episode of Arrow centering around the main character trying to escape a time loop orchestrated by the Monitor. The Monitor did not appear, but his right-hand woman Lyla Michaels aka Harbinger did.
This episode of Arrow was reminiscent to the 100th episode of the series. It felt like a homage to the 100th episode. The 100th episode was a love letter to the fans, while the entire final season is a love letter to the show's history and obviously to the fans.
My favorite scene of the episode must be when Laurel says goodbye to Quentin and thanked him for always believing in her. The scene was heartfelt and touching and even made me cry a little. Katie Cassidy's performance was amazing and her chemistry with Paul Blackthorne shines in this scene.
To conclude, this episode ticked all the right boxes and was filled with stellar performances from Katie Cassidy, Paul Blackthorne and Stephen Amell. I am enthused to see what will happen in next week's episode, now that Oliver is facing his final test from the Monitor. Hopefully, the Monitor will appear in episode 7 titled "Purgatory."
Actually great
masoncb-1360227 November 2019
Warning: Spoilers
This episode is comparable to some of the best episodes of Arrow, but that is just my opinion.
Something that isn't(it is but is kind of a fact) my opinion is that this Groundhog Day-like episode is a LOT better than the Legends episode that was similar. This one had Oliver and Laurel in the loop and brought back Quentin. That alone is reason enough for a 10/10. I've always enjoyed these kind of episodes, and as soon as the first bomb went off and Oliver went back to the first point, I knew I was in for a treat. This was kind of meh in the reasoning for the Monitor doing this but, hey, I'm not complaining.
Amazing
omarkaseem27 November 2019
Back to where it all started
ninjaboyballer28 November 2019
Warning: Spoilers
This episode was overall a really great one. I was really happy that Paul Blackthorne was able to return as Quentin because he was honestly one of my favorite characters of the whole show. And Blackthorne is just also a really great actor. I liked this episode's plot of being in a time loop and instead of like in other films you try to get out of the loop, you have to accept the inevitable, which was Oliver and Laurel having to accept both different things. With Laurel Quentins death and Oliver his own. Almost everyone is great into this episode accept maybe Lyla, I felt like we should've been given more time with her to fully understand why she was working with the monitor. But overall this was another fantastic episode of Arrows final season. And next week we are going back to where is all started: Lian Yu
Final rating: 9.5/10
Final rating: 9.5/10
I don't write reviews, but bere it is.
mascox142 December 2019
Warning: Spoilers
This show is my favourite DC show. It had some down the hill seasons, but it picked up real good. The final season is mind-blowing with throwbacks and just awesome episodes.
I have hated Quentin most of the time, but, I was glad he was back for one last time. Can't wait for the next episode.
Arrow meets Groundhog Day
dami30015 March 2020
The old trick of using the time loop to tell us a story.
But it still works. And in this episode it works very well.
The return of Quentin Lance is the key. And the redemption of Black Siren is important to leave her past behind.
This episode leaves us as a lesson that it is necessary to step forward and face destiny.
How can you fault this episode?
mcartersinclair23 April 2020
One of my favorite episodes of all time!
wallsjordan21 April 2020
Just Wow.
Anonnamus7 February 2020
Warning: Spoilers
I honestly can't say enough good things about this episode. I am a big cynic and tend to think most things are overrated. "Reset" definitely was not. Oliver's journey to his end is taking a toll on him, even on his physical appearance, as he looks more and more haggard with each passing episode. "Reset" was the turning point with Oliver finally willing to accept his fate and that his death is inevitable.
I love Groundhog Day, and shows that feature time loops are my favorites. This one didn't disappoint, especially since it included an old favorite, Quentin. Stephen Amell's acting was yet again on point. I am torn between wanting to see the next episode and holding back because I know we are so close to the end of one of my all-time favorite shows and characters. Well done, Arrow. Season 8 is a masterpiece.
I love Groundhog Day, and shows that feature time loops are my favorites. This one didn't disappoint, especially since it included an old favorite, Quentin. Stephen Amell's acting was yet again on point. I am torn between wanting to see the next episode and holding back because I know we are so close to the end of one of my all-time favorite shows and characters. Well done, Arrow. Season 8 is a masterpiece.
Call me a lover or a hater..
chubbysupreme27 November 2019
Why: so when i realizes oliver is in groudhog situation, i thought 'rly a filler in this time?' But i came to realization a episode continues "oliver needs to accept his fate". The writers get paul blacktornes is the most sensible way..i mean the lesson for oliver is to 'accept death', the writer could get anyone from a arrow cast that left the show for the past few years. Oliver and Laurel's scene are like a gem to the fans..the writers be like "that's wht u want right?"
Is sad that emily left the show because of majority critcism from a fan..for GOD SAKE..felictiy and oliver are married, you cant still belive he's still gnna end up with laurel.
But the ratings for each episodes takes turn after emily's departure..like 9/10 on average?
Back to an episode: This is a season 6's homage episode so honestly i thought it was pretty average ..
Quality 9.4/10 Enjoyment 8.1/10
Quality - another good quality episode from the writer
Enjoyment - dont get me wrong, im still invested to the story..some people are not a fan of 'taking down the monitor' storyline .. but WE fans know we can trust the monitor, but the 'gathering-the-needs' from each episode will be something that will defeats the anti-monitor..so im ok with it.
The only thing im not enjoying the episode too much, its because of S6's homage episode..im not a fan of s6
If i hav to rank episodes for s8(best to worst)
-8x1(9.7/10
-8x4(9.4/10)
-8x5(9.0/10
-8x6(8.4/10)
-8x2(8.3/10)
-8x3(8.1/10)
Is sad that emily left the show because of majority critcism from a fan..for GOD SAKE..felictiy and oliver are married, you cant still belive he's still gnna end up with laurel.
But the ratings for each episodes takes turn after emily's departure..like 9/10 on average?
Back to an episode: This is a season 6's homage episode so honestly i thought it was pretty average ..
Quality 9.4/10 Enjoyment 8.1/10
Quality - another good quality episode from the writer
Enjoyment - dont get me wrong, im still invested to the story..some people are not a fan of 'taking down the monitor' storyline .. but WE fans know we can trust the monitor, but the 'gathering-the-needs' from each episode will be something that will defeats the anti-monitor..so im ok with it.
The only thing im not enjoying the episode too much, its because of S6's homage episode..im not a fan of s6
If i hav to rank episodes for s8(best to worst)
-8x1(9.7/10
-8x4(9.4/10)
-8x5(9.0/10
-8x6(8.4/10)
-8x2(8.3/10)
-8x3(8.1/10)
See also
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