Culture of Pop

31 Days of Halloween Episodes: The First Secret (Pretty Little Liars)

Here at Pop Culture Spin we refuse to accept that Halloween is only one day. We’re going to be celebrating Halloween all month, by highlighting one of our favorite Halloween episodes every day. Today’s we’re looking at the Pretty Little Liars episode “The First Secret.”

Basic Info

Directed by: Dana Gonzales

Written by: I. Marlene King

Episode Number: Season 2, Episode 13

Where to Watch It: Netflix

Why It’s Great

This prequel episode lets us see younger and more insecure versions of the Liars and also shows the ways Alison used to control them.

Season two was before Alison DiLaurentis returned to the show, when everyone thought she was dead. So, this prequel episode provided a rare opportunity for an Alison-driven episode and it’s great to see her dominate it.

Spencer used to be a wreck who worshipped her sister and had no sense of self-worth on her own. Watching the scenes in this episode, you feel proud of the woman Spencer eventually becomes.

We also got to see the full story of Aria discovering her father’s affair with one of his students. It was interesting actually seeing all the details of this often-referenced incident.

Early alliances formed between Mona, Lucas and Jenna, which was great to see.

It’s also full of little touches, like the brief moment when Aria bumps into Ezra in the halls of Hollis.

Why It’s Full of Halloween Spirit

This episode perfect blends together two sides of Halloween: there’s the dressing up and partying and hoping someone notices how sexy you look side of the holiday, then there’s creepiness and scares. In that spirit, in this episode the Liars are all delighted to get invited to Noel Kahn’s cool Halloween party. But not only is a creepy dude in a weird baby mask hanging around the whole time, but Alison has a terrifying prank in store.

Costume Count

Hanna is Britney Spears

Alison is Lady Gaga

Jenna is also Lady Gaga

Noel Kahn is a gynecologist

Spencer is Mary, Queen of Scots

Emily is a Native American (come on, Emily)

Aria is a witch (or maybe just more goth than usual? hard to tell)

Mona – Catwoman

Melissa & Ian – Bonnie and Clyde

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