IR TV Review: LOKI - EPISODE 4 [Marvel/Disney+-S2]
The motion of Episode 4 of "Loki" resounds in the context of causality. The reference point in the story requires a bit of knowledge but once that kicks in, the mode of egg versus the chicken becomes apparent and motivated. The issue with the multiverse is that there are so many strands to follow that it becomes tricky for casual viewers to find a way in. The complexities can be simple or not. The action in this episode comes back to the TVA but also tests loyalties. What is wonderfully subversive is the use of the He Who Remains variant: Victor, a Frankenstein in his own way. It can be difficult to discuss the trajectory and eventual conclusion of the episode without giving anything away. The truth refers in loyalty of the greater good and who has the right to make certain decisions.
Loki ponders this at a key point in the episode with Sophie. Will the path be any different once things begin again, if they do? That is the same thought with Peter Parker in "No Way Home" because that path is muddled and only partially clear. There is a great moment though between two admirers at one point in the episode which does encapsulate what we are seeing if the viewer is able to catch it. There are also some easter eggs that might not pay off until later or perhaps already have. What is truly interesting though is the overall changing intent of Miss Minutes because as the inset of the episode shows, the light might be showing from the wrong side. The question is how does one change everything that has already happened at the end of time without making all of the same mistakes? The last shot ponders this and leaves the episode with a bang. A-
By Tim Wassberg
