Little River resorting to cannibalism - were reavers already in the mix when she was this age? Their father talking about unfiltered internet access haha. Its lovely that he says his kids are worth the effort and cost. That he will do anything to set them up well for life ahead. The boarding school must have been more manipulative than we see, and why did River not see it coming if she has some precognition? Or did she know it was right in the long run?
River telling Simon what happened to her and he doesn't get it. I notice more on this watch how often he disregards her instincts and words, he discards it as gibberish. How often he tells her, out of fear, to settle or calm down, behave like a normal person, dress up like a doll, do as your told. It would be frustrating. River talking about forgetting who you are until you see the sky again - great metaphor for the series - all are trapped unless they are free. Mal actually listening.
Mal vs Jayne - they walk just as good if you lead them - Jayne prefers to smack 'em. Leader vs Bully.
The Simon/Kaylee exchange in the shop reminds me of the city/country divide.
Any chance to make Summer dance!
Now into the heavy business. Bang bang, get the coin.
Flashback to Simon trying to understand Rivers words, and also being disregarded by his own parents. Big world themes dwindled down to family dynamics. Do as you are told, don't act weird, play the part - or be outcast.
River is delighted with the village, and jokes with Simon. Is River calling Mal "Daddy"? Back to heavy business.
Lots of references to Serentiy as being home, and what a home is. Big Damn Heroes 😀 "Shes our witch". Acceptance "You're on my crew". Good feed to end the episode. Home is where you are well fed, spiritually, mentally, physically...