If there's one thing I learned after just two episodes of this season's Survivor, it's that I'm really not so perceptive when it comes to first impressions. After this week's lackluster episode, it has become clear to me that Tijuana and Rupert are emerging as the best of the bunch, and that maybe I was too quick to embrace Osten (not too mention Nicole!)
One of the greatest allures of Survivor is watching how ordinary strangers cohabitate and create a society out of their allotted resources. It is even more fascinating watching two parallel groups do so simultaneously with such contrasting results. The contrasts between the Dominant Drakes and Miserable Morgans right now are startling. As for the Drakes, never before has a tribe member declared they 'were full' (I don't remember which tribe member said this) not to mention 'happy' as Rupert exclaimed. In fact, by next week Club Drake may be ready to accept tourists. In contrast, the Morganites still can't sleep due to a lame shelter with no floor (and now no roof thanks to Sandra). They are truly a pathetic tribe at this point, and now their physically strongest member is ready to surrender. Kudos to Tijuana for maintaining her spirit (I sound like Oprah) as well as of those around her. All Morgan fans like myself should take heart that the dominant tribe ultimately falls as they (and their egos) begin to turn on each other, so we shall most likely see an upcoming Drake demise.
Aside from an exciting immunity challenge race, this week's episode was rather lacking in drama. The tribal vote only showcased two candidates - the physically meek Ryan versus the mentally weak Osten. Lillian was right on when she noted that Osten wanted to leave because he was losing and not because he was physically spent. It's always interesting to see the mental strength of individuals-watching Tijuana's perserverence in her diminutive shivering body contrasted with Osten's feebleness despite all his muscles. I do think the tribe did make the right decision, as Osten will likely rebound and his strength will be needed, and Skinny Ryan really was quite skinny. He vaguely reminded me of Rob C. (Survivor 6), yet he didn't get the chance to play the game. Too bad. Interestingly, even he acknowledged in his sign-off that he probably hadn't given his one hundred percent.
I love the concept of pillaging that is offered to the winning tribe of each reward challenge. This is a great tweak to the game which now places more value on each reward competition than just Doritos and Mountain Dew. Sandra did an amazing job stealing the Morgan's tarp - what a back-breaker to an already demoralized tribe! Sandra possessed just the right amount of sweets and bite while doing so - I really like her spunk!
What can I say about Rupert? How could I have criticized this guy? This guy had such a hall of fame episode this week! He has proven his worth as both the provider on the island as well as the rock of the group. Boy did he make Shawn look bad! Shawn lost the spear, and worse, didn't make much of an effort to find it. Rupert finding that spear in the great waters was truly triumphant, and it was a classic sight seeing the brawny Shawn look so wimpy next to this large disshevelled man just after he found the spear. Rupert looked almost heroic, and he surely will be around for awhile. I have no doubt that he must make one hell of a mentor at his job back home.
Not much other thoughts from episode two. My apologies to Rupert and Tijuana who I clearly misjudged from the first episode - I think you both have risen to the top. Stay strong Lillian although now you are truly on your own. Your troop, er tribe, has a target on your back, and you're likely the next to go. Stay focused Drakes, and try to keep from getting too cocky-you almost lost that immunity idol! Suck it up Osten, you signed up for this and have to raise your game. Morgans, I haven't lost faith-but now's the time to get back in the game!
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