IR TV Review: THE SWARM - EPISODE 3 [The CW]

The efforts of understanding versus the incomparable consequence of biology fuels the idea of Episode 3 of "The Swarm". After seeing how methane and the biological processes of certain creatures are fueling subtle but increasingly poignant and altering changes across the globe, it is a matter if humanity can understand enough to show exactly what is happening. Even if it is not apocalyptic, it is cumulative. The science again uses the aspect of logistics to show what is happening but also human reaction which sometimes makes bad choices in the best of circumstance simply because of pressure and stress. The episode also shows the impact that commerce and expectations (even if nothing is said) bears into these multi-billion dollar industries like shipping. It also reflects that these huge shots of ships don't need to happen.

The establishing shots over Norway, Vancouver Island and Scotland set the tone and still give a sense of place. The story also brings in Tokyo as a point of reference as well as Switzerland which obviously are key points in the book. Often in most novel adaptations, locales need to be taken out because of budget but this production found a way to include them all. This does make a difference of storytelling and precedence. While they might or might not be stock shots, it isn't even as noticeabe to a professional so it doesn't take one out of the story. There is one sequence in this episode that is simple, looks expensive and cinematic but is also very key to the story. It uplifts the rest of the episode because while it is not really esoteric, it is very thematic and large in scope. The resolution of the episode from multiple perspectives focuses on cause but smartly leaves it a mystery causing both the particpants and the audience to draw their own conclusions. B+

By Tim Wassberg