Backwash

Frank fights for the future of the docks and Stringer handles the Barksdales very carefully.

This is a very strong episode with great drama, humour and character development.

The opening scene is quite unforgettable for me, but I won't spoil it by saying too much. It's almost morbidly funny in one sense, but in the same breath it is a tragic commentary on the world.

A prominent aspect of the plot is the blinkered mindsets of two controlling characters: Frank Sabotka and Stringer Bell. The scenes with the stevedores again effectively portray the decline of Baltimore's port industry and its impact on Frank. We get more hints of how tragic the situation is likely to become as he is shown to prioritise the workforce above everything. The development of the all the Sabotka family characters is exceptionally well written and the actors, particularly Chris Bauer, are great.

Stringer has some uncomfortable and compelling scenes in the aftermath of the previous episode's major event. The writers and Idris Elba do a fantastic job of establishing the coldness, calculation and ambition of this character, whilst also laying the foundation for what is to come in season 3.

Speaking of ambition, there are some interesting developments with Daniels in a professional and personal sense. Again this is not just good drama, but cleverly sets up what will to come later.

As ever, the humour is top drawer in a number of scenes. Herc and Carver are on brilliant form in virtually every scene. The stevedores 'Diana Ross' themed practical joke is beautifully delivered. Bunk has some good lines, as does Greggs.

The cinematography and editing is excellent as ever.