Titans streams new episodes weekly in the US via HBO Max. International airdates are yet to be confirmed.
Synopsis
In flashback, we learn the story of how Jason became estranged from Batman, found his way to Dr. Crane and the magic turn of events that transformed him into Red Hood.
Review
Remember that cliffhanger ending last week? Nightwing (Brenton Thwaites) had been shot by a GCPD sniper. Don’t expect any resolution this week as we’re heading back in time. Titans brilliantly diverts from that cliffhanger to fill in the blanks in Jason Todd’s (Curran Walters) story.
“Lazarus” introduces a number of interesting new elements to the plot. By diving back in to the gap between season 2 and 3 the episode is able to flesh out much more of his journey to Red Hood. Further exploration of the relationship between Bruce (Iain Glenn) also offers a huge insight in to Jason’s decision making process.
The episode really hinges on Walters’ and Glenn’s performances. Both are supported by Eve Harlow as Molly, a friend of Jason’s from the streets of Gotham, and Krista Bridges as Dr. Leslie Thompkins. This version of Leslie is a psychiatrist to Bruce and his vigilante team rather than street-level medic. Echoes of the comic character remain but she is suitably recreated to fit the world of Titans.
The relationship between Batman and his Robin’s has never been straightforward. Titans has done a wonderful job of exploring a fresh angle on the Dynamic Duo. Presenting a pseudo-PTSD for Bruce’s young wards. Pulling directly from the pages of DC Comics it is always Jason who suffers the most from that relationship and that is no different here.
What “Lazarus” does brilliantly is recoup the audience’s sense of connection with Jason. Through his meetings with Leslie we are reminded that Jason isn’t beyond saving. Underneath the bravado and Jason is broken and it’s never been more evident than in this episode. Instead the episode chooses to pin Jason’s ultimate betrayal on Bruce’s actions. Stripping him of the Robin title sends Jason in to the metaphorical arms of Jonathan Crane (Vincent Kartheiser) and his journey to Red Hood begins.
The episode expertly traverses moments from early in the season. For example, the death and resurrection of Jason. Continuing to fill in those blanks whilst pulling from the pages of the source material. Yes a Lazarus pit DOES appear in the episode, though not under the control of Ra’s Al Ghul. Titans continues to diversify from the source material in ways which serve its larger purpose. It might not be wholly representative of comic book Jason’s journey but it’s still satisfying to watch.
In its latter stages, “Lazarus” moves at break-neck speed. Introducing Jason’s transformation and re-emergence with a strong emotional weight. It’s the ultimate comic book fall from grace and regardless of the changes it’s heartbreaking to watch.
Heading back to the present day next week the audience will have a different view of Jason. One which is now much more sympathetic but which also places us at odd with his actions. Congratulations Titans to successfully brought the duality of being a Red Hood fan to the small screen.
Verdict
Titans deftly charts the story of Jason Todd, filling in the gaps and setting up his Red Hood persona. Can Jason be redeemed? This episode certainly poses the question perfectly.
Titans stars Brenton Thwaites as Dick Grayson/Nightwing, Anna Diop as Starfire, Teagan Croft as Raven, Ryan Potter as Beast Boy, Alan Ritchson as Hawk, Minka Kelly as Dove, Curran Walters as Jason Todd/Robin and Joshua Orpin as Conner Kent/Superboy.
Joining the cast in season 3 are Savannah Welch as Barbara Gordon, the former Batgirl, Jay Lycurgo as Tim Drake and Vincent Kartheiser as Dr. Jonathan Crane, the former Scarecrow.
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