The Worst Episode of Homeland: S07E07 - A Terrible Missed Opportunity

Season 7 of the critically acclaimed series Homeland kicked into high gear with its seventh episode, S07E07. While the plot took some twists and turns, one can't help but notice the significant missteps and missed opportunities that define this episode as a weak point in the series' narrative arc.

An Abysmal Twist on "Andante" Music

S07E07 of Homeland is often referred to as the ldquo;Andanterdquo; episode, named after the slow tempo Italian musical term. Yet, for those familiar with the show, this moniker serves as a polite euphemism for a filler episode filled with more plot filler than actual substance. The episode presents viewers with a series of events that, while attempting to move the story forward, fall flat in execution.

Carrie's Compromised Judgment

The episode opens with Carrie Mathison's reckless decision to take Frannie to stay at Dante's house. This action, while it might seem driven by impulsive care, actually underscores her severe lapse in judgment, especially in light of the known dangers and risks associated with such actions. Carrie's questionable decision is a stark critique of the character's bipolar disorder and her tendency to act impulsively, often at the expense of those around her.

The Climactic Missteps

The climax of the episode, involving the botched home invasion and the ensuing arrest of Dante, further illustrates the narrative's shortcomings. While the scene of Carrie and Dante engaged in an intimate encounter (which is interrupted by Saul's team) is visually compelling, it serves more as a distraction than a meaningful plot point. The confusion over the number of heat signatures detected by Saul's team, and his chilling response to the situation, merely add to the sense of chaos and disjointed narrative.

A Failed Setup and a Disappointing Payoff

The episode concludes with a particularly disappointing resolution. Carrie, after being confronted by Saul, seems to muster a defiant stance, but given her prior actions, her reaction feels hollow and unsupported. This final scene leaves viewers questioning the narrative choices and the depth of the characters' motivations. While Saul's disappointment towards Carrie is palpable, the episode fails to provide a more nuanced exploration of the parent-child dynamic or the personal ramifications of Carrie's actions.

Clare Danes' Stellar Performance Amidst Chaos

Despite the episode's numerous shortcomings, Clare Danes delivers a powerful and emotional performance. Her portrayal of Carrie's emotional turmoil and internal conflict remains one of the series' strongest aspects, but the supporting cast struggles to match the intensity and depth of Daniel Craig's performance as Saul.

It's worth noting that while the episode is a clear example of the series falling short of its usual high standards, it does offer a poignant moment of reflection on the complexities of leadership, judgment, and the personal and professional stakes involved in high-stakes situations. The episode serves as a reminder of the characters' human flaws and the consequences of those flaws on both the plot and the development of the characters.

In conclusion, while S07E07 of Homeland is far from a standout episode, it does provide a mirror to the series' thematic concerns and the struggles of its characters in high-pressure scenarios. Fans of the show will appreciate the show's willingness to explore its characters' flaws, even if the execution of this particular episode is disappointing.