by Gloria Daniels-Moss
Since Franks colleagues asked him to step down, in this episode this is the first time we have seen him actually engage with his supporters. Of course, there have been snippets but nothing like the scenes we are presented with here. It’s almost like watching a famous star or football coach get a team raring to go before a match; a touch of hooliganism some might say.
Since Franks colleagues asked him to step down, in this episode this is the first time we have seen him actually engage with his supporters. Of course, there have been snippets but nothing like the scenes we are presented with here. It’s almost like watching a famous star or football coach get a team raring to go before a match; a touch of hooliganism some might say.
This episode opens with an attack resulting in eight Russians dead and even after such an event, Frank appears to be in good spirits and back on form as the current president of the United States of America. Taking a break from the usual Frank and Claire quarrels, this chapter is full to the brim when it comes to dealing with various narratives and appears to close off some lingering subplots. Initially, the first half focus on the attack on the Russians, yet many familiar characters aren’t afraid to show their speculations regarding whether Petrov may have brought this attack to his very own door step. Given the way in which this man has previously behaved, it seems us, the audience and the all-powerful woman that is the first lady wouldn’t put it past the man. Accusing such a dangerous leader as Petrov of course has its consequences. Not to mention the backlash this will cause in the Middle East.
The second half is a cocktail of emotions. Doug’s ongoing search for Rachel is becoming rather tedious and when Gavin tells him a Jane Doe matching her description was found in a ditch, if Doug wasn’t troubled enough before he has certainly hit rock bottom now. Now that he has put her to rest in his mind, it seems he wants nothing more than to come crawling back to the White House and most importantly, Frank. Meanwhile, Remy is explored much further than he ever has been. He is one of characters we haven’t seen break on screen and here his ‘in control’ persona is pushed way past its limits resulting to him confiding in the woman he still loves – Jackie. It’s fascinating to see the writers indulge in such stereotypes such as if a black man is driving a nice car the only explanation is that he stole it, or Remy getting mistaken as a chauffeur because why would someone like him be in politics? The way Remy handles this is even more interesting and Mahershala Ali gives a fantastic performance.
This is a slick, crisp episode and what House of Cards is all about. The political polish that this encompasses is so exhilarating and holds your attention until the bitter end. Another engaging watch and certainly one that makes you want to stick the next episode on immediately afterwards.
This is a slick, crisp episode and what House of Cards is all about. The political polish that this encompasses is so exhilarating and holds your attention until the bitter end. Another engaging watch and certainly one that makes you want to stick the next episode on immediately afterwards.
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