The episode was quite suspenseful, even though it is clear that Arthur and Merlin will always survive, the showrunners put them in a kind of trouble it is hard to extricate oneself from, so it was interesting how the characters would solve this problem. They are again faced with Cenred's Haradhrim, and the bones they found in the tunnel brought some Shelob undertones, especially with the webs and all. Of course the whole idea of them four going to rescue Gwen's brother is absurd and could never been successful if it was not for Merlin's magical abilities.
The whole premise with Gwen's long-lost brother seems forced and he looks like a plot device. Sure, it was an estranged brother and he did not have to appear in any previous episodes, but it looks really strange that Gwen had never mentioned him before, even in passing and e.g. to her father. If she had an estranged brother, she would have probably talked about him to his dad, she would also have tried to contact him but we know nothing about it up to this episode.
Merlin's situation is really difficult as he is the only one that knows about Morgana's treasonous tendencies, yet she is so clever that makes everyone else believe she is innocent, and Merlin cannot really do anything about it.
Shout by J.T.VIP 8BlockedParent2015-02-24T02:04:29Z
Good direction
The episode features a lot of what it right with Merlin these days: the friction between Merlin and Morganna. They are really writing the inner conflict Merlin faces well with his duty to protect Arthur and Camelot versus his inability to reveal the true nature of Morganna. I am looking forward to how this plays out.
After no advancement of the Arthur / Gwen relationship, it seems someone has decided that the priority has been raised. I'm not sure if I like how they are broaching this subject but the road trip the group took together was nicely done. The secret entrance into the castle sure didn't look too secret to me but oh well. Overall this was a strong effort