The Americans (TV Series) Experimental Prototype City of Tomorrow (2016) User Reviews

Another strong and cleverly written episode

[snoozejonc · 9/10 · 23 February 2021]

The Jennings stress over what to do about Pastor Tim.

This is another great episode that strongly conveys the life of two parents unraveling whilst also presenting another suspenseful situation in relation to their espionage work.

The plot is pretty character driven for a large part of the episode before something happens that shifts the focus on to the urgent and immediate. There are some more intriguing scenes involving Nina, whilst Stan's pursuit of the real FBI mole is also starting to increase in tension.

I like what they are doing with the parallels of the biological weapon and the Jennings predicament with Pastor Tim. Very cleverly written and possibly foreshadowing what is to come.

As ever the cinematography and editing is highly effective and all performances are excellent.

For me it is an 8.5/10, but I like to round upwards.

And the hits just keep on comin'.

[Mr-Fusion · 8/10 · 15 June 2017]

I have to admit, the title for this one gave me a chuckle; mainly because I had no idea what EPCOT had to do with "The Americans".

Turns out it's specifically the Jennings' way out of this whole Pastor Tim mess. A family getaway to Orlando would nicely cover over his tragic "accident". There's plenty of drama here because their cover is completely blown; Tim's wife is a gossip fiend. And Paige being mixed up in it rules out any simple assassination. These are dark times.

Darker still when a twist arises in the form of - SPOILERS - the Glanders virus that's suddenly been exposed; Philip's parting words, "I guess we're not going to EPCOT" have the ring of child-like disappointment, but they really betray the dire assessment of their situation.

8/10

Navigating moral ambiguity

[belaidinazim-57060 · 8/10 · 27 March 2024]

The episode delves into the intricate web of relationships and decisions faced by the characters, particularly Philip and Elizabeth. The tension escalates as their daughter Paige inadvertently reveals their secret to Pastor Tim, prompting a precarious situation where their identities could be exposed.

Throughout the episode, the Jennings grapple with the dilemma of whether to run back to Russia or stay and face the consequences of their actions. This internal conflict is further complicated by external pressures, such as Gabriel's deteriorating health due to exposure to a deadly pathogen they had retrieved earlier.

As Gabriel's condition worsens, Philip reflects on their predicament, stating, "Two kids who don't know anyone, don't know the language. What about us. Everything we've built here. Our work. Those things matter." Both of them theoretically want stay, one for the service and one for the life he built in the case of Philip. But it's getting dangerous so The tension is palpable as they weigh their options and confront the possibility of betraying their country or abandoning their lives in America.

Obviously they aren't going nowhere cause if they go to Russia, the show is over. But it will be interesting to see how they solve this issue.

The inclusion of personal moments, such as Elizabeth's growing friendship with Young Hee whether she really likes her or not remains uncertain. You can never read Elizabeth and it also remains unclear what's the use of that relationship. I guess they are setting it up for the future.

The emotional state of Paige or her character in general doesn't matter to me much right now cause the stakes are too high.

This is a good episode that skillfully combines suspenseful storytelling with nuanced character exploration, setting the stage for further developments and escalating tensions in the ongoing conflict between duty and personal loyalty.