When June was telling her story, It was like being punched in the gut. So heartbreaking to be reminded of everything she endured.
29 Reviews
Gut Wrenching
zacharykieler2 June 2021
Trauma take & protesters
pzlgirl30 April 2023
Warning: Spoilers
First, the testimony... someone commented on her deadpan expression during it. As someone who has had to testify horrors... this is all you can do to get through it. It's like she was describing when being raped... your mind detaches, treat it like a job. If she thought about what she was saying, it would have been unhinged and wrecked her. The defense would have just said she was incompetent. She had to remain deadpan and detached from it to get through it.
The representation of trauma has been, in my experience, well done. From the sex issues to the flashbacks, to the silence, to the desire to destroy the destroyers... random bouts of anger at little things... like a drawer not opening... that needs to go in there as well.
And I think they did well with Luke. He should feel like he doesn't know her... because he doesn't. Trauma roots down into your very core and changes you. He's doing a good job, but him seeing a counselor would be very handy as well.
Protesters - Yeah, there are people in every country that will believe religious fanatics. I'm betting the people out there were mainly ones with lower intelligence and/or those who have struggled to conceive. Desperation and stupidity was what led to Gilead in the first place. It's why so many follow cult leaders/politicians that promise a "great" future and to fix everything even when logic and common sense would tell them otherwise. It's a brilliant bit of art imitating life.
The representation of trauma has been, in my experience, well done. From the sex issues to the flashbacks, to the silence, to the desire to destroy the destroyers... random bouts of anger at little things... like a drawer not opening... that needs to go in there as well.
And I think they did well with Luke. He should feel like he doesn't know her... because he doesn't. Trauma roots down into your very core and changes you. He's doing a good job, but him seeing a counselor would be very handy as well.
Protesters - Yeah, there are people in every country that will believe religious fanatics. I'm betting the people out there were mainly ones with lower intelligence and/or those who have struggled to conceive. Desperation and stupidity was what led to Gilead in the first place. It's why so many follow cult leaders/politicians that promise a "great" future and to fix everything even when logic and common sense would tell them otherwise. It's a brilliant bit of art imitating life.
a masterpiece of an episode
imjustgamer5 June 2021
They achieved SO much with this episode
anisabel772 June 2021
Warning: Spoilers
This was definitely the standout episode of the season so far. Many older plot points were revisited, which I think a lot of us were hoping for.
We discover the fates of Aunt Lydia and Janine (for now at least). Emily seeks retribution for the brutal slaying of her partner which is really revisiting old territory. That was such a shocking scene in the very early days and really established the unflinching terror of the Gilead regime. Luke breaks his silence.
This episode was masterful as it managed to convey every character as facing a personal crossroads of sorts; the struggle to either move towards compassion or to double down (as Lydia does with her cattle-prod, Serena Joy holding Fred's hand). We see the complexity and brokenness of every character at some point in this episode and the myriad of ways in which each is coping. Junes appearance in the support group shows how far the the former handmaids really are from achieving real freedom.
Aunt Lydia has always been someone I've felt invested in since reading The Handmaid's Tale and The Testaments. Her character and story in the books is VERY complex. An entire series couldn't cover her evolution from soft-hearted teacher to hardened tyrant. It's understandable that we only see brief flashes of this throughout the series. With this episode we see cracks appearing in her facade, a vulnerability resurfacing that has been repeated stamped and beaten out by the Gilead regime.
What about Commander Lawrence? Is he playing the long game? Can he really continue to stand behind his own rhetoric after all that has happened? What is the end goal? Has he decided to fall on the Gilead sword once and for all? Is he planning an out?
Junes seven minute testimony is a masterpiece; measured but powerful. I appreciated that the camera was fixed on her the entire time knowing many viewers would crave some reaction shots in the courtroom.
There are so many places I want the final two episodes to go, so many loose ends to tie up.
We discover the fates of Aunt Lydia and Janine (for now at least). Emily seeks retribution for the brutal slaying of her partner which is really revisiting old territory. That was such a shocking scene in the very early days and really established the unflinching terror of the Gilead regime. Luke breaks his silence.
This episode was masterful as it managed to convey every character as facing a personal crossroads of sorts; the struggle to either move towards compassion or to double down (as Lydia does with her cattle-prod, Serena Joy holding Fred's hand). We see the complexity and brokenness of every character at some point in this episode and the myriad of ways in which each is coping. Junes appearance in the support group shows how far the the former handmaids really are from achieving real freedom.
Aunt Lydia has always been someone I've felt invested in since reading The Handmaid's Tale and The Testaments. Her character and story in the books is VERY complex. An entire series couldn't cover her evolution from soft-hearted teacher to hardened tyrant. It's understandable that we only see brief flashes of this throughout the series. With this episode we see cracks appearing in her facade, a vulnerability resurfacing that has been repeated stamped and beaten out by the Gilead regime.
What about Commander Lawrence? Is he playing the long game? Can he really continue to stand behind his own rhetoric after all that has happened? What is the end goal? Has he decided to fall on the Gilead sword once and for all? Is he planning an out?
Junes seven minute testimony is a masterpiece; measured but powerful. I appreciated that the camera was fixed on her the entire time knowing many viewers would crave some reaction shots in the courtroom.
There are so many places I want the final two episodes to go, so many loose ends to tie up.
Great Episode!
barmicster2 June 2021
Warning: Spoilers
I absolutely loved this episode! June's testimony, the group dialog and even Commander Lawrence belittling Aunt Lydia. The one thing I did not understand was how people were cheering for the Waterford's after they left the court house. What was it that he said that they were able to get people on their side??
Wrenching, chillingly like reality
Rivercelt3333 June 2021
Warning: Spoilers
The soundtrack, the writing, the directing, the acting. Wow. The Waterford supporters at the end were so similar to those who believe soundbites are actually the whole story. Frighteningly real, frighteningly relatable. I look forward to the next episode and to see what the story arch is next.
I think my heart is aching!
ahmedmohamed-201352 June 2021
Warning: Spoilers
I just got teary all time I took seeing this, the sound tracks, the facial expressions!... Omg!, it the best episode so far!.
I love that Elizabeth moss was the director for this one, it was really amazing for me, and I wish that the episode was more longer tho!
And Janine was alive all that time?, but why back to geliad?
I love that Elizabeth moss was the director for this one, it was really amazing for me, and I wish that the episode was more longer tho!
And Janine was alive all that time?, but why back to geliad?
Glory Days in Canada
igornt3 June 2021
Simply one of the best episodes of the series so far, and the best of the new season. June was punctual in every word said against her oppressors, she kept her calm to her limit - which is difficult for Mrs. Osborne. Everything, absolutely everything, had an impacting and sensitive meaning. The soundtrack, again, served as a singular essence of this masterpiece; the art direction was extremely beautiful and satisfying in every way; and the performances of Moss, Dowd and Whitford were also glorious. I hope this season finale really turns out to be the best thing of the year!
June v. Gilead has officially BEGUN
LiamAckerman2 June 2021
Warning: Spoilers
Everything about this episode was magnificent. June's testimony. June's response to Fred in open court. June's group therapy dialogue. EVERYTHING was centered on June and her mission to fight Gilead this episode... and I'm all here for it. Absolutely can not wait for the final two eps of the season!
Good episode but I pity these women
atmike6 June 2021
Definitely a wonderful episode in a long long time
maila-813263 June 2021
After an overall mediocre season, the show bounces back gloriously. This is one of the best episodes of the series. Elizabeth Moss proved herself to be a promising director while her acting in this episode is beyond doubt the best in a long long time in this series. She had been getting quite repetitive in the last few episodes and those were marred by lazy writing. This episode is so well written that the moments stand out brilliantly. The cinematography as always is a stand out.
missed opportunity
sbloram31 October 2021
Warning: Spoilers
I still really enjoy this show. The lows are so darn low that any scrap of high is gobbled up, and it's done well. But i feel it's a missed opportunity in june's testimony. She painted with such broad strokes that I really didn't feel the sheer horror she went through. It could've been done better.
Justified anger?/Coincidence?
Nixie224-72-3346742 June 2021
Warning: Spoilers
The almost final scene where the escaped handmaids are discussing what they would like to do to their former masters hit home. First, was it coincidence that it came after 1/6 because many of us that opposed the insurrection have been so angry still at those that believe in the insurrection but are told by the media on "our side" that this anger is wrong. Is there a thing as justified anger? Also coincidence?
Very intense episode!
lydianorder30 March 2023
Warning: Spoilers
June finally has the chance to tell her side of the story in court. Very matter of fact, she summarized years of trauma in a way that is almost clinical yet makes a deep impact. This episode also shows more of the almost motherly feelings aunt Lydia has for Janine, but doesn't usually allow for them to surface. The brief appearance of ex aunt Irene who is overtaken by remorse for what she did to Emily, is intense. It shows the complicated psychology of people and how they can be influenced by society and by pressure to comply. It reminded me of an experiment where people are supposedly forced by authorities to hurt others. It shows the darker side of what people are capable of even if they would never do these things in normal circumstances. June seems to be turning darker, overtaken by deep rooted anger and encouraging others to express their anger as well, leaving Moira concerned. Luke is struggling with June's return and how to deal with all the complicated emotions that are stirring. A very intense episode!
Magnificent
steve-007589 August 2021
Warning: Spoilers
The Marvel generation don't seem happy unless there are a dozen 100mph action scenes per episode. A strong, character driven episode like this will always pass them by. The Hannah Montana generation simply have a need for happiness and the sugary sweetness of idealism. That is not what The Handmaid's Tale is about. It is dark, emotional and, where required, visceral in it's examination of a patriarchal society taken to the extreme. That June is descending the spiral in a way the Hannah Montanas don't like is what makes the drama what it is. That the pace is unpalatable to the Marvel massive, is what makes this season so compelling. Just, magnificent.
BEST EPISODE OF THE SEASON
megcichetti9 June 2021
Warning: Spoilers
Finally finally finally! JUNE GETS TO SPEAK HER TRUTH! Luke gets to understand what she was out through and she FINALLY gets to face WATERFORD! Her testimony is everything i could have asked for and more. We learn more about janine and aunt lydia and we finally get some closure on some unanswered questions. Seeing june speak up for herself and all the other women was truly empowering! BEST EPISODE YET!
Great episode !
dawnsacks-0157819 December 2021
Everyone makes the show, except June!
RaeGal-4461127 August 2021
Warning: Spoilers
This episode was emotional. It's like it all came to a head in one shot! I don't really think Moss is the best actress (overrated?) but the other cast members all Make it happen!
From Moira to Serena to Luke(just love him) to Lawrence (praise be some comic relief!) My favorite, Janine has been a stand out all along. I really think this was my favorite episode the whole series. Highly recommend it.
From Moira to Serena to Luke(just love him) to Lawrence (praise be some comic relief!) My favorite, Janine has been a stand out all along. I really think this was my favorite episode the whole series. Highly recommend it.
[7.1] The puppet show
cjonesas31 May 2022
Warning: Spoilers
Episode 8: Honestly, that's an interesting rotten episode. Interesting on the outside, rotten in its inside.
The acting is good in an artificial way, spearheaded by the manipulative, deceptive, sort of low-level sociopath that June has become. Even in the court, babbling all those horrors and bitter experiences, one could only see her one-dimensional face void of feelings. It is not with that bland contained face that you tell your house-of-horrors story. At least, in my opinion.
The whole episode is unimpressive and slow with just some shades of quality, mostly felt than seen.
The gathering between the handmaids uninteresting, full of wishful thinking and implied rotten revenges that will never come true. Everybody fail to show emotions, real truthful emotions changing their faces. No, they sit there, they talk, they are bitter, they are angry, but their faces don't change. June doesn't count, she's always been like that after being forcefully made a handmaid. Emily is the worst; as far as I remember, she just kept showing that face throughout 4 seasons. Quite an achievement!
The best out there are aunt Lydia and Janine. They are the actors in that whole "limited" group showing real emotions, positive or negative, emotions true to their natures. (They) have always been.
The Waterfords have always been rich, "influential" puppets that one day look like stuffed with condiments and pepper and the other day with anti-anxiety and anti-depressant drugs.
So, in the end we have a good valiant episode like a fresh-looking apple, so brightly red on the outside, but full of blackness and worms inside.
The acting is good in an artificial way, spearheaded by the manipulative, deceptive, sort of low-level sociopath that June has become. Even in the court, babbling all those horrors and bitter experiences, one could only see her one-dimensional face void of feelings. It is not with that bland contained face that you tell your house-of-horrors story. At least, in my opinion.
The whole episode is unimpressive and slow with just some shades of quality, mostly felt than seen.
The gathering between the handmaids uninteresting, full of wishful thinking and implied rotten revenges that will never come true. Everybody fail to show emotions, real truthful emotions changing their faces. No, they sit there, they talk, they are bitter, they are angry, but their faces don't change. June doesn't count, she's always been like that after being forcefully made a handmaid. Emily is the worst; as far as I remember, she just kept showing that face throughout 4 seasons. Quite an achievement!
The best out there are aunt Lydia and Janine. They are the actors in that whole "limited" group showing real emotions, positive or negative, emotions true to their natures. (They) have always been.
The Waterfords have always been rich, "influential" puppets that one day look like stuffed with condiments and pepper and the other day with anti-anxiety and anti-depressant drugs.
So, in the end we have a good valiant episode like a fresh-looking apple, so brightly red on the outside, but full of blackness and worms inside.
Exploring Trauma and Vengeance
badeclerck14 February 2024
Warning: Spoilers
Testimony. The eighth episode of the fourth season of The Handmaid's Tale, encapsulates the series' finest elements, showcasing impeccable performances from the cast and a meticulously crafted soundtrack that underscores every moment with poignant precision. Directed by Elisabeth Moss, the episode excels in delivering riveting storytelling that is both captivating and thought-provoking.
While the episode's conclusion may prompt debate regarding the triumphant exit of the Waterfords in Canada, juxtaposed against the horrors of Gilead, it serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of human nature. The fervent support shown for Fred and Serena Joy Waterford by extremists in a supposed haven of freedom raises questions about the desperation that drives individuals to embrace tyrannical ideologies in pursuit of perceived salvation. It prompts reflection on historical atrocities committed in the name of misguided beliefs, highlighting the unsettling reality of humanity's capacity for both cruelty and blind devotion.
Central to the narrative is June's confrontation of her tormentors in a courtroom setting, where her theatrical testimony lays bare the atrocities she endured under the Waterfords' rule. Elisabeth Moss delivers a powerhouse performance, portraying June's simmering rage and desperate quest for justice with palpable intensity. The trial scene underscores June's inextricable link to Serena Joy and Fred, highlighting the enduring trauma inflicted upon her and the resilience with which she confronts her past.
The episode delves into June's trauma and her tumultuous journey towards healing, as she grapples with the weight of her experiences and seeks to ignite a spark of vengeance among her fellow survivors. The parallel drawn between June's trial and the unofficial judgment of a former Aunt of Gilead by fellow survivors poignantly illustrates the enduring scars carried by those who have escaped the regime's clutches. It underscores the challenges faced by survivors as they navigate the tumult of their emotions and strive to find inner peace amidst the wreckage of their past.
As June, Emily, and other survivors confront their demons and unleash their pent-up rage, the series navigates the complexities of trauma with unflinching honesty. The character of Moira, serving as a foil to June's fiery resolve, raises questions about the suppression of anger and the toll it exacts on the psyche. As the series unfolds, it remains to be seen how the survivors will navigate their journey towards healing and whether Moira will confront her own demons or continue to suppress her emotions.
In Testimony, The Handmaid's Tale offers a searing exploration of trauma, vengeance, and resilience, setting the stage for a compelling narrative arc that promises to delve deeper into the complexities of the human spirit. As June and her fellow survivors grapple with their past traumas and strive for redemption, the series continues to captivate audiences with its powerful storytelling and nuanced character development.
While the episode's conclusion may prompt debate regarding the triumphant exit of the Waterfords in Canada, juxtaposed against the horrors of Gilead, it serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of human nature. The fervent support shown for Fred and Serena Joy Waterford by extremists in a supposed haven of freedom raises questions about the desperation that drives individuals to embrace tyrannical ideologies in pursuit of perceived salvation. It prompts reflection on historical atrocities committed in the name of misguided beliefs, highlighting the unsettling reality of humanity's capacity for both cruelty and blind devotion.
Central to the narrative is June's confrontation of her tormentors in a courtroom setting, where her theatrical testimony lays bare the atrocities she endured under the Waterfords' rule. Elisabeth Moss delivers a powerhouse performance, portraying June's simmering rage and desperate quest for justice with palpable intensity. The trial scene underscores June's inextricable link to Serena Joy and Fred, highlighting the enduring trauma inflicted upon her and the resilience with which she confronts her past.
The episode delves into June's trauma and her tumultuous journey towards healing, as she grapples with the weight of her experiences and seeks to ignite a spark of vengeance among her fellow survivors. The parallel drawn between June's trial and the unofficial judgment of a former Aunt of Gilead by fellow survivors poignantly illustrates the enduring scars carried by those who have escaped the regime's clutches. It underscores the challenges faced by survivors as they navigate the tumult of their emotions and strive to find inner peace amidst the wreckage of their past.
As June, Emily, and other survivors confront their demons and unleash their pent-up rage, the series navigates the complexities of trauma with unflinching honesty. The character of Moira, serving as a foil to June's fiery resolve, raises questions about the suppression of anger and the toll it exacts on the psyche. As the series unfolds, it remains to be seen how the survivors will navigate their journey towards healing and whether Moira will confront her own demons or continue to suppress her emotions.
In Testimony, The Handmaid's Tale offers a searing exploration of trauma, vengeance, and resilience, setting the stage for a compelling narrative arc that promises to delve deeper into the complexities of the human spirit. As June and her fellow survivors grapple with their past traumas and strive for redemption, the series continues to captivate audiences with its powerful storytelling and nuanced character development.
How are people supporting the Waterfords??
bettina-stene935 January 2022
Warning: Spoilers
Out of all the logical flaws this series has started to show, how on earth are people supportive of the Waterfords... I mean come on. The writers are gonna put too much into the plot of the Waterfords. They should be punished and forgotten.
June is no better than the aunts
betanslivka2 August 2021
Warning: Spoilers
I lost my sympathy for June back in season 2 or 3. She only gets worse. She continues to show her need to manipulate and control others and interfere in their lives for her own satisfaction. From the end of season one she has only cared about her own needs - her need to see her daughter (putting her daughter in danger), the need for revenge (understandable, until she sucks others into it and gets them harmed or killed). Getting the handmaids and Marthas worked up in Gilead had a purpose, but now instead of letting the ones who escaped try to heal she tried to incite them. She won't recognize that she has no training in this area and is doing more harm than good. Aunt Irene could have been a great ally with all the guilt she was feeling, but June won't stop to think or to listen to anyone else, even though, time after time she's been told the harm she is doing by people who are actually on her side. Even the verbal slap in the face from Janine during their escape didn't wake her up. I suppose it could be chalked up to PTSD, but then she should be in counseling, not attending an unsupervised group session.
And what's with the protestors? They can't possibly be Canadian. The Canadians I know do not let themselves be manipulated by a statement as weak and transparent as Waterford's. American expatriates, most of whom were escapees or people looking for the people wrenched from their livres by Gilead. I wouldn't think so. Other Americans left behind by the "revolution?" Why aren't they in Gilead helping with the fight? Nothing about that protest makes sense. At least not in Toronto. I'm ready for the end of this series. I keep watching, only because I want to see how everything turns out, but if it goes on much longer, I won't even care.
And what's with the protestors? They can't possibly be Canadian. The Canadians I know do not let themselves be manipulated by a statement as weak and transparent as Waterford's. American expatriates, most of whom were escapees or people looking for the people wrenched from their livres by Gilead. I wouldn't think so. Other Americans left behind by the "revolution?" Why aren't they in Gilead helping with the fight? Nothing about that protest makes sense. At least not in Toronto. I'm ready for the end of this series. I keep watching, only because I want to see how everything turns out, but if it goes on much longer, I won't even care.
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