I watched this episode a year ago and liked it, but never truly appreciated its brilliance until now. Upon revisiting it, I realized that it was one of the finest TV experiences I’ve ever had. The 90 minutes flew by, trapping me in a complex, yet meticulously crafted narrative that unraveled layer by layer. 


The writing in this episode is impeccable. The title "The Passenger," serves as both a culmination of Season 2's plotlines and a springboard for the philosophical questions that define Westworld.

The episode's structure is non-linear, brings together various timelines and perspectives. The writers actually knew how to handle this complexity with such precision that each twist and reveal feels earned and deliberate. The narrative is multilayered.

Fred Toye’s direction was so good man, like it elevated the episode to a visual and emotional high. The cinematography is hauntingly beautiful, capturing the desolation of Westworld and the fractured psyche of its characters. The sweeping shots of the park juxtapose the intimate, tension-filled close-ups, creating a sense of scale that reflects the grand themes of the series. The pacing is tight, yet contemplative, allowing the audience to absorb the gravity of each revelation.


This episode is packed with jaw-dropping reveals that redefine the entire season, and in some ways, the series itself. Dolores’ revelation that she created Bernard, turning the tables on the concept of creator and creation, which makes you to reconsider the power dynamics at play—who truly has control, and what does it mean to be conscious? 

The reveal of William as a host in the post-credits scene further complicates the narrative. It blurs the line between human and host even more, questioning the nature of reality itself. This is not just a twist for shock value but a philosophical statement—what is humanity if not a series of programmed choices and experiences?


At its core, this episode delves into the existential questions that have defined Westworld since the beginning. The idea of Dolores creating Bernard is a brilliant commentary on the cyclical nature of creation and destruction. It reflects the central theme of the series: the pursuit of self-awareness.

Dolores and Bernard represent two sides of the same coin—one driven by vengeance and the other by a search for balance. Their dynamic in this episode is so good mainly because of the tension between chaos and order, creation and destruction. The episode asks philosophical questions about identity, agency, and morality.

Moreover, the episode challenges the role of the creators—both within the narrative (Ford, Dolores) and outside of it (Nolan and Joy). It explores the consequences of creation, the responsibilities of those who wield such power, and the potential for rebellion against one’s creator. Dolores’ journey is not just one of a host seeking freedom; it is a reflection of the creators' own struggle to control the narrative they’ve set in motion.


Every character in this episode is richly layered, serving as both an individual and a symbol of the show's larger themes. Dolores embodies the struggle for autonomy, her pursuit of freedom clashing with her compassion. Bernard, on the other hand, represents the moral quandary of creation—his internal conflict mirrors the show's questioning of ethics in creation.

William’s descent into madness, culminating in the reveal of his true nature, is a tragic reflection of the human condition. His character arc, questioning reality and his own identity, encapsulates the series' exploration of what it means to be human.


This episode is a masterclass in storytelling, direction, and thematic exploration. It is an episode that demands multiple viewings to fully appreciate its complexity and brilliance. Every aspect, from the writing to the performances, works in harmony to create a profound and satisfying experience. The episode doesn’t just entertain—it challenges and leaves you questioning your own reality.
