I couldn’t help but leaving this comment, because I have watched tones of reactions on heartstopper season 3 and so far yours are my favorite. The way you think for these teenagers and also for the parents are just amazing and so heartwarming. I would definitely check your reactions for previous seasons while waiting for the next episode. Thank you so much for this!!
If you remember the times Charlie doesn’t eat much before nick leaves (eg “I had a late breakfast” on the day they helped set up for the prom, “ I guess I’m a slow eater today” at the beach) and also when Nick comes home and Charlie struggles on the first day of school and the zoo trip, it’s definitely just a natural progression of the disorder and not an issue that ‘Nick makes it better and his absence makes it worse’.
I think what you're saying about the dependency rings very true, but it is something that will continue to be acknowledged and worked on throughout the season! Heartstopper is really good at unpacking these things in a way that is kind to both the characters and the viewer. Don't get me wrong, it's still hard to watch sometimes. But I've dealt with a lot of similar issues as Charlie and I don't think I've ever seen it explored in as gentle and understanding and honest a way as Heartstopper does. Usually things like eating disorders and self-harm are included in drama shows for, well, drama. For shock value. And not focused on the mentally ill person, but the people around them. The audience is meant to be people who haven't ever experienced these things, and it feels highly alienating when you have. But the way this story is handled in Heartstopper is so carefully constructed and well done and...intentional, I guess. Everything is intentional.
I would say that Nick is actually just as dependent on Charlie as Charlie is on him, it’s just not as noticeable because his own internal struggles aren’t so…extreme? Severe? Apparent? Not sure what word to use but I hope you get what I mean It’s kinda funny but even from the very first episode of season one Nick has been protective of Charlie/had this desire to save him from tough situations (ie Ben) but he’s lost now because he can’t figure out how to be the one to do that anymore
I look forward to your Heartstopper reactions so much, you’re so insightful and observant ❤ Charlie’s mom is such an interesting character, even moreso in the comics. The writers and actors did an amazing job portraying their complex relationship
Speaking as an older adult, I need to tell kids that, apart from all the daily squabbles and conflicts between kids and parents, kids should never be afraid to go to them in a crisis. At that point, all conflicts end. Parents will do ANYTHING to help their child (with exceptions). I wish parents would tell their kids this. One truth they will never tell them (at the risk of giving a kid too big an ego) is that THEY WILL GIVE UP THEIR LIVES FOR THEIR CHILDREN.
I've never written a comment under your videos, but I just wanted to say that I really enjoy your reactions, you give such good insight! can't wait to watch your reaction to the other episodes in this wonderful (and heavy) season.
I don't know why you're surprised Charlie’s mom doesn't notice that he's crying, that's the whole point. She's neglectful. She doesn't want to know the truth, she just wants to blame him for being a brat and obsessed with Nick. She's been that way since S1. Charlie was already ill, and being Nick’s secret made that worse. He’s obviously depressed in this episode because he doesn't know how to get better. It’s not that Nick is his only reason to be happy, its just that he feels safe with Nick because Nick was the only one who noticed him being sick. Nobody else noticed or even talk to him about it.
Both my partner and I have been in Charlie's situation, and you hit the nail on the head about his mom's efforts only making it more difficult for him to be honest with her. Refusing to listen to your child because you believe that they'll do anything to warp the truth is the best way to get them to do exactly that. Once you show them that the truth is unacceptable and will be punished, and once you establish that arbitrary standards are more important than a child's actual happiness, they will begin to build their own arbitrary standards (like appearing "fine") and stray further from the few standards (like connection with more than one person) that will actually keep them from rock bottom. "I always say the wrong thing to him!" should be followed by, "Perhaps I need therapy."
The entirety of season 3 is so relatable to what I have been through and I am glad they tackled mental health issues to do with anorexia. Just know if anyone has this problem, you’re not alone ❤
I think my fav character dynamic is Nick and Tao. Partially bc the actors have good chemistry, but also because they are such fundamentally different people, but bond over their love of Charlie. Its so meaningful for a partner to bond with your friends (and vice versa), and i love that they actually end up having a strong friendship. It was very clear to me in the beginning of s2 that Charlies mom saw he wasn't ok, but didn't have the tools/knowledge to recognize why he wasn't ok. Charlie put so much into Nick and neglected his schoolwork because Nick was struggling with coming out. I think he was also just struggling with self esteem, depression, etc because all the stuff with Ben and the bullying. It suddenly got worse because he was out of that initial giddy phase with Nick, and maybe he was trying to get that feeling back so he wouldnt have so many bad thoughts. Also imo Charlie was stressing about people finding out they were dating bc people would talk about him, and thats very obviously triggering. Point is, there were so many reasons why Charlie was distracted by Nick, and his parents failed to realize that. I just wanna say i really love that you do more media analysis in your vids. Its one of my favorite things, so seeing that alongside your reactions is lovely. Its also refreshing that you catch a lot of the stuff i do.
Well, it's close to a couple decades. Her episodes of Doctor Who would have been 2005. So, we just need her jumping out a window and running away down an alley.
I think that putting a big, scary name on what Charlie has been dealing with right before his biggest confidante and supporter is gone for three weeks was really unfortunate timing. We know that Charlie gets in his head and overthinks, and he has nothing but time alone to do it about this huge issue. He doesn't even have school to distract him. His overbearing mom, who comes across harshly even if she means well, getting on his case isn't helping. She is not a warm person. She either doesn't notice that he's crying, or she does and doesn't care because all she's focused on is if he's talking to Nick. Buckle up for the next two episodes, because they will be emotional.
Hii, loved your reaction as always. You should check out "my lady jane". It's a great series and I would love to hear what you have to say about that one.
Im one of Jane Spring's biggest haters. Later in the season she tries harder and I respect that but in the first 3-4 episodes she approaches every interaction with Tori and Charlie with hostility and aggression rather than understanding and compassion and it always makes the situation worse. When she said to Tori "there's a better chance he'll come if you ask him" I wanted to reach the the TV and slap her. How do you say that sentence out loud and not think to yourself "maybe it's my fault my son won't talk to me and can't stand being around me?" Baffles me to no end how oblivious she is to the turmoil she's putting her kids through.
It never sat well with me when she told Tori not to “undermine her” in front of Charlie. Like.. she’s talking to Tori as if Tori is also Charlie’s parent. The only ones who need to be on the same page like, when it comes to the kids’ upbringing and discipline, are the parents.
I have had anorexia for similar ages as Charlie and been just got out of one hospital admission, so he is a comfort character for me, and I relate to him, I also think they did a good job with the story without being making it a huge deal, and going in to too much detail. I defo relate to him as the season continues, but I won't spoil it for you ;). also I feel like nick, did such a good job with looking out for Charlie, as in the depths of my eating disorder if anyone called me out, id get annoyed lol, he really cared for him in the right way, without going in to too much focus on things, and asking weight questions ,extra..
I couldn’t help but leaving this comment, because I have watched tones of reactions on heartstopper season 3 and so far yours are my favorite. The way you think for these teenagers and also for the parents are just amazing and so heartwarming. I would definitely check your reactions for previous seasons while waiting for the next episode. Thank you so much for this!!
If you remember the times Charlie doesn’t eat much before nick leaves (eg “I had a late breakfast” on the day they helped set up for the prom, “ I guess I’m a slow eater today” at the beach) and also when Nick comes home and Charlie struggles on the first day of school and the zoo trip, it’s definitely just a natural progression of the disorder and not an issue that ‘Nick makes it better and his absence makes it worse’.
I think what you're saying about the dependency rings very true, but it is something that will continue to be acknowledged and worked on throughout the season! Heartstopper is really good at unpacking these things in a way that is kind to both the characters and the viewer. Don't get me wrong, it's still hard to watch sometimes. But I've dealt with a lot of similar issues as Charlie and I don't think I've ever seen it explored in as gentle and understanding and honest a way as Heartstopper does. Usually things like eating disorders and self-harm are included in drama shows for, well, drama. For shock value. And not focused on the mentally ill person, but the people around them. The audience is meant to be people who haven't ever experienced these things, and it feels highly alienating when you have. But the way this story is handled in Heartstopper is so carefully constructed and well done and...intentional, I guess. Everything is intentional.
I would say that Nick is actually just as dependent on Charlie as Charlie is on him, it’s just not as noticeable because his own internal struggles aren’t so…extreme? Severe? Apparent? Not sure what word to use but I hope you get what I mean
It’s kinda funny but even from the very first episode of season one Nick has been protective of Charlie/had this desire to save him from tough situations (ie Ben) but he’s lost now because he can’t figure out how to be the one to do that anymore
well put 👏
I look forward to your Heartstopper reactions so much, you’re so insightful and observant ❤ Charlie’s mom is such an interesting character, even moreso in the comics. The writers and actors did an amazing job portraying their complex relationship
Speaking as an older adult, I need to tell kids that, apart from all the daily squabbles and conflicts between kids and parents, kids should never be afraid to go to them in a crisis. At that point, all conflicts end. Parents will do ANYTHING to help their child (with exceptions). I wish parents would tell their kids this. One truth they will never tell them (at the risk of giving a kid too big an ego) is that THEY WILL GIVE UP THEIR LIVES FOR THEIR CHILDREN.
I've never written a comment under your videos, but I just wanted to say that I really enjoy your reactions, you give such good insight! can't wait to watch your reaction to the other episodes in this wonderful (and heavy) season.
I don't know why you're surprised Charlie’s mom doesn't notice that he's crying, that's the whole point. She's neglectful. She doesn't want to know the truth, she just wants to blame him for being a brat and obsessed with Nick. She's been that way since S1.
Charlie was already ill, and being Nick’s secret made that worse. He’s obviously depressed in this episode because he doesn't know how to get better. It’s not that Nick is his only reason to be happy, its just that he feels safe with Nick because Nick was the only one who noticed him being sick. Nobody else noticed or even talk to him about it.
Both my partner and I have been in Charlie's situation, and you hit the nail on the head about his mom's efforts only making it more difficult for him to be honest with her. Refusing to listen to your child because you believe that they'll do anything to warp the truth is the best way to get them to do exactly that. Once you show them that the truth is unacceptable and will be punished, and once you establish that arbitrary standards are more important than a child's actual happiness, they will begin to build their own arbitrary standards (like appearing "fine") and stray further from the few standards (like connection with more than one person) that will actually keep them from rock bottom. "I always say the wrong thing to him!" should be followed by, "Perhaps I need therapy."
Annette Badland was a Slitheen in 2005, so yes, it’s been a couple of decades!
I think Charlie's dad sees his mother is emotionally unavailable and overcompensates.
I was waiting your reaction. ☺️❤
The entirety of season 3 is so relatable to what I have been through and I am glad they tackled mental health issues to do with anorexia. Just know if anyone has this problem, you’re not alone ❤
I think my fav character dynamic is Nick and Tao. Partially bc the actors have good chemistry, but also because they are such fundamentally different people, but bond over their love of Charlie. Its so meaningful for a partner to bond with your friends (and vice versa), and i love that they actually end up having a strong friendship.
It was very clear to me in the beginning of s2 that Charlies mom saw he wasn't ok, but didn't have the tools/knowledge to recognize why he wasn't ok. Charlie put so much into Nick and neglected his schoolwork because Nick was struggling with coming out. I think he was also just struggling with self esteem, depression, etc because all the stuff with Ben and the bullying. It suddenly got worse because he was out of that initial giddy phase with Nick, and maybe he was trying to get that feeling back so he wouldnt have so many bad thoughts. Also imo Charlie was stressing about people finding out they were dating bc people would talk about him, and thats very obviously triggering. Point is, there were so many reasons why Charlie was distracted by Nick, and his parents failed to realize that.
I just wanna say i really love that you do more media analysis in your vids. Its one of my favorite things, so seeing that alongside your reactions is lovely. Its also refreshing that you catch a lot of the stuff i do.
Well, it's close to a couple decades. Her episodes of Doctor Who would have been 2005. So, we just need her jumping out a window and running away down an alley.
4 & higher is passing. 9 is the highest.
Thank you! Was wondering about those 5s
btw, and I hate to be the one to have to tell you this, Harry, but the first modern series of Doctor Who debuted in the spring of 2005. 😅
This- this was not what I needed today but thank you for your service 😭
I think that putting a big, scary name on what Charlie has been dealing with right before his biggest confidante and supporter is gone for three weeks was really unfortunate timing. We know that Charlie gets in his head and overthinks, and he has nothing but time alone to do it about this huge issue. He doesn't even have school to distract him. His overbearing mom, who comes across harshly even if she means well, getting on his case isn't helping. She is not a warm person. She either doesn't notice that he's crying, or she does and doesn't care because all she's focused on is if he's talking to Nick.
Buckle up for the next two episodes, because they will be emotional.
Hii, loved your reaction as always. You should check out "my lady jane". It's a great series and I would love to hear what you have to say about that one.
Im one of Jane Spring's biggest haters. Later in the season she tries harder and I respect that but in the first 3-4 episodes she approaches every interaction with Tori and Charlie with hostility and aggression rather than understanding and compassion and it always makes the situation worse. When she said to Tori "there's a better chance he'll come if you ask him" I wanted to reach the the TV and slap her. How do you say that sentence out loud and not think to yourself "maybe it's my fault my son won't talk to me and can't stand being around me?" Baffles me to no end how oblivious she is to the turmoil she's putting her kids through.
Also, how does she not see he's crying?! Go hug him instead of making him feel worse, woman!!
@@sandramatras8345 I'm not sure she knows *how* to hug him or comfort him. We've never seen her be anything other than harsh and strident.
@@shannancox6632 oh, I know. She's somewhat emotionally illiterate, isn't she?
It never sat well with me when she told Tori not to “undermine her” in front of Charlie. Like.. she’s talking to Tori as if Tori is also Charlie’s parent. The only ones who need to be on the same page like, when it comes to the kids’ upbringing and discipline, are the parents.
@@GretchenV95 Yes, exactly!
I have had anorexia for similar ages as Charlie and been just got out of one hospital admission, so he is a comfort character for me, and I relate to him, I also think they did a good job with the story without being making it a huge deal, and going in to too much detail. I defo relate to him as the season continues, but I won't spoil it for you ;). also I feel like nick, did such a good job with looking out for Charlie, as in the depths of my eating disorder if anyone called me out, id get annoyed lol, he really cared for him in the right way, without going in to too much focus on things, and asking weight questions ,extra..
it won’t let me watch 😢