The man of science vs. man of faith dilemma has been a constant in the show since late season 1/early season 2, and it really comes to a head here, with the group finally taking sides and splitting apart. It’s a testament to how the show has developed this idea throughout that this feels like the natural next step while also being the ultimate extreme. The closest we’ve gotten to something like this yet is the caves and beaches so early on, which had its impact at the time, yet ultimately proved a bit inconsequential in terms of conflict. And the way Charlie plays into it all just jabs at the heart. I’ll never be over it and seeing the reactions by the characters is devastating. I wish I could give Claire and Hurley the biggest hugs. 

And, of course, you can’t talk about this episode without delving into the big change: the flash forwards. After the bombshell at the end of last season, this continues on with the format and it makes for such an interesting shift from how the show usually feels. When the flashbacks were employed, they often gave off the vibe of someone reflecting on past events, but now the characters are as oblivious to what will happen as we are. The usage of dramatic irony is totally flipped, and now the diversions are just as narratively revealing as the island. For instance, the Oceanic SIX?! Don’t tell me everyone is about to start dying. Or do some stay behind? This one… this one scares me. Clearly, I am not ready for the future of this show. 

Specials

Season 1