The Falcon & The Winter Soldier - Episode 5: Truth

By Ephraim Belnap

    "When Steve told me what he was planning, I don't think either of us knew what it felt like for a black man to be handed the shield," intones a solemn Bucky Barnes. "How could we? We owe you an apology. I'm sorry."

    "Thank you," Sam says warmly.

    With that exchange, The Falcon & Winter Soldier starts the last leg of its journey. 

    Having reclaimed the shield in the wake of last episode, Sam and Bucky have headed back to America to regroup. Problems for the early episodes aren't going away, but the terrorist-related problems can take a break. Equipment is prepared and preparations are made. 

    Just as urgent are the thematic demands. The issues that have undergirded the show - the image of Captain America, the shadow of American racism, the unwieldiness of the military-industrial complex - are brought to the forefront. "They will never let a black man be Captain America," a skeptical character grunts, voicing a fear some fans have. But it's clear from the tone, that Sam doesn't agree with that.

    That said, flaws do exist. The discussion of themes feels hopelessly muddled after the contradictions of previous episodes. Does the show want to reform the military or reject it wholesale? All the same, its willingness to discuss them is commendable. And it does so while not losing track of its action-adventure roots. With some surprise cameos in the second half and a cliffhanger ending, the finale is sure to be a wild ride.