One Last Thing

Greetings from Lithuania.

Terrific - brilliant episode. This is my first review for a single "Homeland" episode, and why i'm writing it i still can't forget this episode. If you enjoyed "Homeland" so far in this season, you will be in nirvana watching "One Last Time". Without a doubt this is the best episode in very good season 3, and i can feel shiver when thinking what is going to happen next, when only 3 episodes left.

Yes, season 3 started slow, and at the moments, which involved Dana and her love affair this show was becoming really annoying, but then the things started to get better and better with every scene, when it finally came back to the form for which i love "Homeland".

To shortly sum up all 3 seasons (while 3rd is still way from over) - this is currently the best TV show on air. You can throw a rock at me, but this show is way better than over-hyped survival soap opera "Walking Dead" - "Homeland" feels real, sort of things we are seeing on news every day, and at the same time it's extremely smart, involving, interesting, not overwritten, always keeps you thinking and it's just near damn perfect.

Be honest, the romance between Danes and Lewis did not always gel for this reviewer but if you stuck it out for the first two seasons, here in this episode you finally get a payoff.

This entry intentionally or otherwise seems to focus on the best and brightest stars in the series : Patinkin, Danes and Lewis.

It is astonishing how, once given the freedom to move to center stage, the entire tone and quality of an already-solid series rises like a helium balloon to the clouds ... and keeps on moving.

Each of these principals gives the performance of his or her life, and seems to do so effortlessly. While the plot of the series is meandering, manipulative , and more often than not fails to connect with viewer endorphins, this episode, filled to the brim with talent, makes up for all that ... and more.

Recommended.

Why does Brody have to go through all this agonizing withdrawal? It is so unlikely he managed to stay calm and collected in 8 years of captivity but becomes a junkie of note in what can't be more than a few months in Caracas... Very weak and annoying.

"One Last Thing" delves into the preparations for Brody's mission to Iran, with Carrie and Saul working to convince him to take on the dangerous assignment. The episode opens with Brody's initial reluctance, reflecting his inner turmoil and the weight of his past actions. Carrie's unwavering belief in Brody's potential for redemption plays a crucial role in persuading him to accept the mission.

A key scene is the intense conversation between Carrie and Brody, where she appeals to his sense of duty and offers him a chance at redemption. This moment underscores the deep connection between the two characters and highlights Carrie's emotional investment in Brody's fate. Another notable scene is Saul's strategic planning with the CIA team, which adds layers of intrigue and tension to the storyline. The episode also explores Dana Brody's attempts to rebuild her life, adding a personal dimension to the narrative.

Themes of redemption, sacrifice, and the blurred lines between personal and professional loyalties are central to this episode. Brody's decision to take on the mission reflects his desire for atonement, despite the immense risks involved. Carrie's unwavering support highlights her belief in second chances and her deep emotional connection to Brody. The direction by Jeffrey Reiner maintains a high level of tension and emotional intensity throughout.

The cinematography effectively uses close-ups to capture the characters' emotional states, creating an intimate and immersive atmosphere. The editing is seamless, balancing the various narrative threads to maintain a cohesive and engaging story. The pacing is steady, allowing for both character development and plot progression. Overall, "One Last Thing" is a powerful episode that delves into the emotional and ethical complexities of the characters' missions.

In conclusion, "One Last Thing" is a compelling episode that highlights the personal and professional challenges faced by the main characters. The direction, writing, and performances create a gripping narrative that explores themes of redemption and sacrifice.