Episode 4 of Willow saw the gang venture deep into Nockmaar Castle, the home of the evil sorceress Queen Bavmorda. While dormant and desolate, the castle reveals a few secrets of its own. With Graydon slowly being consumed by a demon, the team are in a race against the clock to rescue their companion. Of course, everything works out in the end, but not in the way that you would have expected. Secrets have been revealed. Bonds have been shaken, and the Shattered Sea is still out of site. Where will our heroes end up next? Let’s find out in Episode 5 of Willow which is available to stream exclusively on Disney+.
Synopsis
After being chased away by the Gales, the gang find themselves lost in a mysterious forest. Unlike Nockmaar Castle, this forest is full of life and they’re not exactly the friendliest of people either. Taken in by their kidnappers- The Bone Reavers, the team are divided and it becomes a race to save Elora and push on with their mission. However, things aren’t as they seem when one of the leaders of the Bone Reavers takes a liking to Jade and Boorman.
Review
The last episode, while progressive in regards to its attempt to further develop our heroes, felt a bit like a filler episode. The same can be said for this episode, but the mood and tone is completely different compared to that of The Whispers of Nockmaar which relished in that spooky and darkened atmosphere. This episode deals with some hefty revelations, but it is incredibly light-hearted and fun despite the situation they find themselves in.
However, we’re still very much in the same territory whereby we haven’t actually moved on. We’re still focusing heavily on individual characters as a means to give everyone an opportunity to shine, which is fantastic because they all have stories that are worth telling… But we haven’t actually progressed in terms of pushing on. It’s probably not the best comparison, but it brought me back to the second season of The Mandalorian where the main objective was hidden by smaller narratives. That format works really well, but you get to a stage where you really want to know what happens next, yet the show remains firmly planted. We definitely make some good progress especially in regards to what Airk is dealing with, which is still a mystery in itself, but it feels like it’s time to pick up the pace.
Last week’s episode worked on developing Graydon as a character, but this time we hone in on Jade. She has a lot to process this episode, and while she has dealt with a lot of physical obstacles this feels like the first mental brickwall to appear at her feet. Of course you had the ordeal with Commander Ballantine, but this episode really tests her resolve and makes her question her entire identity. This makes it sound like she goes through a really rough time, when in actuality it’s incredibly liberating. Jade drops this guardian role and actually has an opportunity to form her own identity that doesn’t revolve around being a knight.
They have great fun in this episode and it reminded me a lot of the casino scene in Percy Jackson. There are definitely some familiar elements especially when it comes to the consumption of particular juices and fruits, but unlike Percy Jackson the danger isn’t imminent. In fact, there is no danger in this episode. For the first time, our band of heroes are able to truly let loose and enjoy themselves. The only thing they have to worry about is how honest they are with each other… You’ll see what I mean. For some characters the truth is something better left unsaid. For others the truth really sets them free and puts them on a whole new path.
I’ve always loved Jade and Kit’s relationship, especially when other characters like Boorman tell them just how obvious they are, it’s always really funny and somewhat painful because Boorman essentially becomes the viewer. We want that relationship to blossom and it’s always just out of sight. However… This is their episode.
Episode 5 is huge for Kit and Jade. In previous episodes there is always a sudden wedge that drives them apart, but episode 5 finally allows them to let down their guard down and soak in each other’s company. The dialogue becomes a bit clunky and a tad on the nose, but it was impossible not to smile at their growing relationship. Looking back at episode 1, they’ve both come so far and they both seem ready to take the next step. That is until the kicker…
Willow may have its issues, but it knows how to end an episode. Regardless of where our characters are or what they’ve been doing, there is always a hook at the end that has you wanting more. Episode 5 ends in a way that’ll make you angry and excited for the future. We’re nearing the endgame now and it’s really hard to predict what’s in store. But next week’s episode will see a slight role reversal as it is now Willow and Kit who are in need of rescuing. Well, things can’t get much worse… Or can they?
Verdict
Episode 5 is a well-needed break from the strenuous life of an adventurer. We may be nearing the point where the filler becomes a tad too much, but I’m willing to give this episode a pass because it was simply too much fun. Fun is had by all and it was great. Pure joy and unapologetic jubilation. Every episode has resulted in some form of strained relationship, but this episode allows everyone to relax, decompress and achieve a peaceful equilibrium. The weight of their mammoth task is dropped, and we’re able to witness a more mischievous and playful side to our band of travelers. As with any show, the fun doesn’t last and episode 6 is sure to crank up the heat and remind everyone that the coming darkness is almost at their doorstep. Well, it was fun while it lasted.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Experience the magic of Willow exclusively on Disney+ right now. New episodes of Willow will air every Wednesday, so tune in again on December 28th for episode 6. Have you watched the latest episode of Willow? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
