Malvo seeks answers, while Lester finagles a few of his own. Molly and Gus try to get past a setback in the investigation.
What I Liked:
The cinematography is solid, and each scene perfectly implements its beautiful and mesmerizing music score. On top of that, each actor gives a strong performance, with Billy Bob Thornton and Martin Freeman being the clear standouts.
Malvo is one of the most intriguing individuals you will see on television, with Thornton's portrayal being nothing short of superb, along with Freeman's portrayal of Lester.
Lester's transformation sees him become arguably the most interesting character on this show, even more so than Malvo. It will be fascinating to see how morally bankrupt he will become by season's end.
What I Disliked:
Molly surviving after the last episode's cliffhanger felt a little cheap. While this character has improved during the season, it would have been interesting to see how her death would have played out, as opposed to a fakeout in which she sustained non-fatal injuries.
Malvo felt supernatural in this episode to the point of disbelief. While still one of the most intriguing individuals you will see on television, his ability to murder an entire crime syndicate was perhaps the most implausible event in the show so far.
Overall:
Fargo comes through with another high-quality episode, but perhaps the most flawed one so far. However, this episode has more than enough elements to make for a highly enthralling viewing experience.
8/10
King Cadmium.
A meek, mild insurance salesman meets a rootless, manipulative stranger in the hospital, which initiates terrible and gruesome events that will change the salesman's life forever.
What I Liked:
This premiere does a fantastic job of introducing its characters and themes early on, with almost every character being memorable in some way.
The cinematography is solid, and each scene perfectly implements its beautiful and mesmerizing music score. On top of that, each actor gives a strong performance, with Billy Bob Thornton and Martin Freeman being the clear standouts. Their interactions in this premiere are nothing short of brilliant.
Speaking of Billy Bob Thornton, his character (Malvo) is one of the most intriguing individuals you will see on television, with Thornton's portrayal being nothing short of superb. I can't wait to see what schemes he will pull during this season.
What I Disliked:
Lester should not have known what room number Malvo was staying in at the Motor Inn. While it was clear how he surmised Malvo was staying at that motel, I doubt he would have asked Malvo for that particular information, considering how their interaction went.
Overall:
Fargo begins with a terrific, near-perfect premiere. Just about every element combines to create a highly enriching viewing experience.
9/10
King Cadmium.
Robb goes to war against the Lannisters. Jon finds himself struggling to decide if his place is with Robb or the Night's Watch. Drogo has fallen ill from a fresh battle wound. Daenerys is desperate to save him.
What I Liked:
The pacing of this penultimate episode is unbelievable, with not a single dull moment. It's a testament to the level of care every person involved has given.
As usual, it is impossible not to be impressed by the high-quality production value, as well as the meticulous attention to detail. Again, acting all around is solid.
Ned Stark's death is easily the most shocking scene so far - an unbelievable end to a great character. Game of Thrones continues to outdo itself with these jaw-dropping cliffhangers.
What I Disliked:
Nothing.
Overall:
Game of Thrones delivers its best showing so far, leaving an undeniable impact on the series with this unbelievably constructed penultimate episode. You would be hard-pressed to find a show more tautly written and produced in its premiere season.
10/10
King Cadmium.
