Deron Generally
Deron GenerallyThe Falcon and The Winter Soldier
Disney Plus
Season 1 Episode 4
The Whole World is Watching
The end of the last episode gave viewers a treat in the return of Dora Milaje warrior Ayo tracking Zemo on behalf of Wakanda. Now we get to see that her relationship with Bucky is more complicated than that and the history they share is deeply rooted in Bucky’s struggle to regain his humanity. It is an incredibly touching and emotional moment that leads to a beautifully tense standoff between the two characters.
Zemo continues to sew chaos between the two with his digs at them and super soldiers, but he makes some salient points that hit home about just how special Steve Rogers was. Sam finds himself defending Karli and wanting to bring the Flag Smashers in peacefully, but their latest action is starting to make that prospect more and more remote. Especially when the Flag Smashers get the attention of the global media.
As they look for information, Zemo proves that he is just as devious as ever and Sam makes a call. Karli contemplates using the rest of the stolen serum and the episode takes the time to make an argument for her cause. It was interesting thematically, but on a broader note, it seems to setup a scenario that demonizes those who are doing the right thing, but operate outside the system. The history of Karli’s radicalization comes into focus as Sam and Bucky get info on her location.
The tension gets higher when Walker and Battlestar show up and want to take control of the operation. When Sam suggests using his training as a counselor to try to connect with Karli, we see something strange within Walker. Something that potentially turns him into the threat that Zemo has been talking about. The scene between Karli and Sam continues to showcase why the character deserves the mantle of Captain America. It showcases compassion and empathy and there is a great contrast with Walker trying to be the hero with his authority without considering the consequences.
After failing to bring her in, Karli showcases that she is growing more ruthless. Something Zemo also alludes to before Walker and company burst in. What follows is one of the best scenes in the series so far when the Dora Milaje come for Zemo and completely disregard Walker’s assumed authority over the situation. It’s not only action packed, but serves as the final catalyst for Walker to do something he knows is wrong and that ultiamtely leads to tragedy both for the character and for the symbol he wears.
The new episode of The Falcon and The Winter Soldier is one of the best ones yet and does an amazing job of combining social commentary, emotional issues and action. There are several scenes that left me reeling, but the final scene and what it means going forward was beautifully done.
The Falcon and The Winter Soldier S01XE04
