In my review of The Old Man Season 2, I joked that Season 1 was the “fuck around” side of things, while this season was the “find out” part. However, my previous review only discussed the first five episodes available to critics at that time. This week, Episode 6 takes us into brand-new territory.
It shows how much “finding out” Dan Chase (Jeff Bridges), Harold Harper (John Lithgow), and Zoe McDonald (Amy Brenneman) still have left to do. They have Suleyman Pavlovich (Rade Serbedzija) hot on their heels.
Julian Carson Returns in The Old Man Season 2 Episode 6
While Episode 5 ended with Chase and Zoe going to London, and Harper staying behind to track down the last message Morgan Bote (Joel Grey) sent before he died, Episode 6 does not start with any of them. Instead, it begins with Julian Carson (Gbenga Akinnabe), the man on Bote’s payroll.
Harper hired him last season to eliminate Chase—my, how times have changed. A young woman (Jessica Parker Kennedy) approaches him at his bus stop. He met her the night Harper hired him to kill Chase. She is happy to see him again and tries to start a conversation, which he initially shuts down.
However, he decides to roll with it. He tells her he just quit his job—having your boss murdered will do that. Sensing she also needs to vent about work, they decide to go out for dinner.
The young woman talks about how some jobs take a lot out of you while trying to make a difference. She starts to wonder if it is worth it. She realizes she has lost part of herself along the way. Carson admits that Bote, whom he calls his recently deceased best friend, had begun to wonder the same thing.
Now that Bote is dead, the question haunts Carson too. With this common ground established, a relationship begins to blossom between the two over the next few days. It feels wholesome enough to make us wonder which old man will come in and mess it all up.
The answer is Harper. He enters Carson’s apartment after figuring out that Carson was the one Bote emailed right before he died. Harper demands to see what was in that email. Carson tries to force Harper to leave by pretending he has no idea what Harper is talking about.
But Harper calls his bluff. He tells Carson he only managed to track him down because Bote’s protection ended when the old man died. Harper warns Carson that this means more of his enemies can find him and his girlfriend.
Eventually, Carson agrees to help Harper. Harper promises that if Carson helps him, he will help keep him safe. He reminds Carson that the walls Bote built for him are the same kinds of walls Harper had built around his life before it all came crashing down. But Harper cannot guarantee safety if Carson does not help him.
Chase and Zoe Head to London in The Old Man Season 2 Episode 6
Meanwhile, across the ocean, Chase and Zoe arrive at their London hotel under the names Henry and Marcia Dixon. Chase keeps it together until they check into their room. After that, his last conversation with Emily (Alia Shawkat) haunts him. He replays the moment he thinks he heard his daughter die.
Zoe tells him it is OK to be angry about the loss. However, he pulls himself together because anger will not help them figure out how to approach Nina Kruger (Rowena King), Faraz Hamzad’s (Navid Negahban) lawyer, whom they came to see. More importantly, they need to think about what to ask her.
Zoe tells Chase that Bote confirmed that Pavlovich is connected to the deal for Hamzad’s mineral deposit. Bote was not sure how exactly, but Zoe adds that Kruger likely knows more about it. Zoe says she must go into the meeting using the kinds of mind tricks she learned from Bote.
Chase also learned these tricks from Bote in the past. The thought of this new life she is starting and the new persona she needs to adopt feels overwhelming. It means she cannot trust or get close to anyone again. Whether this will bring luck or doom for her and Chase’s relationship remains to be seen.
The next day, Zoe waits alone for Kruger in a fancy bar, with Chase connected to her through an earpiece. He watches from the lounge above. As they wait for Kruger, Zoe becomes more nervous, especially since Kruger is well past fashionably late.
At least she and Chase manage to engage in some flirty banter over Hamlet, of all things. However, Zoe then shifts the conversation to a serious topic.
She asks Chase where all his money comes from. He stays evasive, mentioning his work, some lucky blackmail opportunities, and investment ventures. Then, Zoe drops a bomb by asking him who “Lou Barlow” is. We do not know yet what kind of bomb this is, but the name makes Chase tense.
Zoe tells him that Bote mentioned this name to her when discussing Chase’s business dealings. She adds that she could tell Bote was being dishonest when he spoke of Lou Barlow. Chase explains that Barlow is the worst kind of person, someone he wishes he had never crossed paths with. This says a lot, considering what Chase does for a living.
Chase cuts off that line of questioning when he joins Zoe in the bar. He tells her it is time to leave since Kruger is clearly not coming. He calls her office to find out where she is, but her assistant only says she is not in and will not check messages because she is dealing with a personal matter.
Chase decides they need to find out Kruger’s location another way. After a quick stop for supplies, they return to the hotel. It turns out his fussing over what floor and room number to book during check-in is not just an old man’s eccentricity. It is actually part of his plan to get a good view into Kruger’s assistant’s apartment.
Chase and Zoe Track Down Nina Kruger in The Old Man Season 2 Episode 6
He approaches Kruger’s assistant, Anna, in the hallway outside her apartment. He tells her he is looking for a friend, and she is eager to help until he mentions he is looking for Kruger. Despite his warning that the next person looking for Kruger may not be so kind, Anna slips into her apartment and shuts the door on Chase.
Still from The Old Man (Credit: FX)
Across the street, Zoe connects their computer to Anna’s phone using a device Chase built to listen in on her. Sure enough, Anna calls Kruger despite apparent instructions not to. She tells Kruger there is a man looking for her. Although Kruger does not answer, the plan works, and they manage to trace Kruger’s phone location.
Even though they get what they want, Zoe feels some regret over what they put Anna through. She wishes the manipulation had not come so easily to them. The next day, on their drive to Kruger’s place, Chase tells Zoe that he understands her feelings.
He lives with the knowledge that his actions are violent and that he breaks everything he touches. Zoe believes she also does the same. Neither of them appears happy about how their lives have turned out, but they acknowledge that they must move forward.
For them, moving forward means heading to a cottage on a beautiful property in the countryside. Chase goes up to the house alone to find the door broken and ajar. Inside, he sees Kruger sitting in an armchair, struggling to breathe, and hears someone moving around in the house.
He confronts the attacker in Kruger’s office and kills him. However, he discovers an empty vial in the attacker’s pocket. Chase carries Kruger outside and warns Zoe to stay away in case he has traces of the toxin on him. The attacker had an antidote in his pocket, but it was destroyed during the fight, meaning it is too late to help Kruger.
As she dies, Kruger tells them what the attacker was looking for. She directs them to a USB key in her study containing a message for Zoe. This message holds the information she wanted to share in person.
Kruger tells Zoe that Pavlovich used his mercenaries to take control of Hamzad’s mineral deposit and to kill the remaining members of the Hamzad family. She reveals that other important mineral deposits exist worldwide in areas that are not friendly to the U.S. or the U.K. Those who control these deposits are seeking to unite to control global access to rare earth metals.
We Learn What Pavlovich Wants in The Old Man Season 2 Episode 6
Kruger explains that although Pavlovich is currently a member of this cartel, other groups view him with suspicion. This is because “Henry and Marcia Dixon” have past ties to the CIA and own shares of his company. Pavlovich’s determination to sever that connection by any means necessary leads to Kruger’s death. This also explains why he wants Chase and Zoe dead.
After the message ends, Chase suggests that he and Zoe separate. He tells her to go to the police to contact Harper and update him on what is happening.
Zoe feels upset that Chase suggests they split up for her safety because that is not what she wants. While I support her desire to live her best new life, given that her partner is infected with a lethal airborne toxin and there is a hit out on her, this is not the time for false bravery.
Chase tells her that while she contacts Harper and keeps herself safe, he will turn himself in to Pavlovich. Chase knows that Pavlovich’s people are the only ones with the antidote he needs and promises Zoe that he will return.
Back in the U.S., Harper sits in a diner where he meets Carson. Carson tells Harper that he wanted to escape the life he had when he worked for Bote.
He admits that he did receive an email from Bote, but he deleted it immediately. However, curiosity got the better of him, and he ended up looking at it. He confesses that the life he tried to leave is harder to escape than he thought.
Carson hands Harper a printout of the email Bote sent. It turns out to be a covert image of a group of people, including Pavlovich and Harper’s ex-wife, Marion (Janet McTeer).
While the episode is full quieter than the previous ones—more understated than eerily silent like last week—these final moments highlight that the entire episode was preparing for what will likely be an emotionally charged conclusion to the season.
Episode 6: A Turning Point
Episode 6 serves as a significant turning point for all characters involved. We see Chase grappling with the emotional weight of his past and his actions.
Still from The Old Man (Credit: FX)
His relationship with Zoe grows increasingly complicated as they go deeper into a world filled with deceit and danger. Zoe’s character evolves, showcasing her struggle between wanting to connect with Chase and the harsh realities of their dangerous lifestyle.
Julian Carson’s unexpected storyline adds depth to the episode. His relationship with the young woman reflects a longing for normalcy amid the chaos that surrounds them. The scene at the diner between Harper and Carson reveals the psychological effects of their past actions, making it clear that these characters cannot escape the consequences of their choices.
The emotional stakes are raised as Kruger’s death marks a significant loss for Chase and Zoe. The urgency of the situation escalates, setting the stage for the upcoming episodes. Viewers are left wondering how these characters will show the intricate web of lies, danger, and their unresolved feelings for one another.
Themes of Trust and Betrayal
One of the recurring themes in The Old Man is trust and betrayal. As Chase and Zoe show their relationship, they face challenges in trusting each other. Chase’s past and the secrets he holds create a barrier between them.
Zoe’s discovery of Lou Barlow’s name symbolizes the underlying distrust that has developed. The episode highlights the struggle to balance personal relationships with the demands of a dangerous life.
Similarly, Julian Carson’s interactions with the young woman reveal the complexities of trust. Their budding relationship is put to the test when Harper’s sudden appearance threatens the fragile connection they’ve built. This theme resonates throughout the series, reminding viewers of the difficulties that arise when trust is broken.
The Complexity of Morality
The Old Man challenges the concept of morality, forcing characters to make difficult choices. Chase’s decision to turn himself in to Pavlovich illustrates the moral dilemmas he faces. He prioritizes Zoe’s safety over his own, demonstrating a shift in his character as he grapples with his past actions.
This moral complexity adds depth to the narrative, encouraging viewers to reflect on the choices made by each character.
The moral ambiguity is further shown through Harper and Carson’s storyline. Harper’s willingness to use Carson as a pawn in his game to protect himself reveals the lengths he is willing to go to survive. The characters are not painted in black and white; instead, they show a world filled with shades of gray, where survival often requires morally questionable decisions.
As Season 2 of The Old Man progresses, the tension between characters escalates. Chase’s decision to turn himself in sets the stage for a dramatic confrontation with Pavlovich. Zoe’s determination to uncover the truth about Barlow and her growing sense of agency promise to lead her down a dangerous path.
The cliffhanger elements of Episode 6 leave viewers eagerly anticipating the next episodes. The stakes are higher than ever as relationships become more complicated and trust continues to erode.
The narrative is building towards an explosive climax, where all the threads interweave to create a thrilling conclusion.
Still from The Old Man (Credit: FX)
As we move forward in the season, the scheme of themes such as trust, morality, and the consequences of choices will continue to resonate. Each character’s journey is intricately tied to their past, and their futures remain uncertain.
Episode 6 of The Old Man Season 2 enriches the story with emotional depth and suspense. The character developments and thematic scheme enhance the viewing experience, making it a gripping watch.
As the season unfolds, fans can expect more twists, turns, and emotional revelations as Chase, Zoe, and Harper show the dangerous world around them.
The movie The Platform, directed by Galder Gaztelu-Urrutia, captured the audience’s attention and became one of Netflix’s most-watched original films during the pandemic in 2020. Its unique premise and thought-provoking themes struck a chord with viewers around the world.
The film shows life in a dystopian world where a vertical prison system forces inmates to confront the harsh realities of survival and human nature. Due to its popularity and critical acclaim, a sequel felt inevitable, leading to the release of The Platform 2.
Set in the same unsettling environment, The Platform 2 continues to show deep social themes while introducing new characters and challenges. The franchise attract audiences with its thrilling narrative and allegorical elements, addressing critical issues such as capitalism, class struggle, and moral dilemmas.
The Premise of The Platform
In The Platform, inmates reside in a vertical self-management center known as the “pit.” Each month, they awaken on different floors of this structure, which contains numerous levels stacked on top of each other. Each day, a platform filled with food descends from the top level, stopping for two minutes on each floor.
The inmates at the top enjoy abundant meals, while those at the bottom struggle to get by, often leading to desperation and chaos as they fight for survival.
The first film goes into themes of capitalism and political power dynamics, illustrating how those at the bottom are powerless to influence those above them. It delivers a poignant message about inequality and the harsh realities of a society driven by greed.
Showing The Platform 2
The Platform 2 maintains a similar structure to its predecessor, presenting a fresh narrative through the eyes of a new protagonist, Perempuán (played by Milena Smit).
The sequel retains the chilling atmosphere of the original while expanding on the complexities of the characters and their motivations. The film introduces a crucial theme: how strict adherence to rules can lead to unintended consequences and even violence.
Unlike the original, the characters in The Platform 2 demonstrate a more disciplined attitude, showcasing how far people are willing to go to survive within a flawed system.
Each prisoner is allowed to choose a single meal before entering the pit, and that meal becomes their only option during their time in the tower. This structure emphasizes the rigidity of their situation and the consequences of deviating from established norms.
Perempuán’s experiences unfold as she shows this harsh environment, revealing the psychological and physical challenges the inmates face. Her journey highlights the struggle for power and survival within the confines of the tower, setting the stage for a gripping scheme of human nature.
Perempuán’s Journey and Character Development
Perempuán is introduced as a character with a troubled past. Early on, she reveals her reason for being in the pit: to seek forgiveness for the tragic death of her ex-boyfriend’s son.
The boy died after one of her sculptures fell on him, and she carries the weight of guilt with her. This backstory adds depth to her character and sets the tone for her emotional journey throughout the film.
As Perempuán adjusts to life in the tower, she forms relationships with her cellmates, including Sahabat (played by Natalia Tena). Sahabat serves as a mentor figure, guiding Perempuán through the challenges they face. Together, they show the implications of their situation, questioning the system that confines them.
Sahabat shares a critical perspective on the flaws of their environment, explaining that her old cellmate was punished severely for sharing food with a starving child.
This story illustrates the harsh realities of their existence and the brutal enforcement of rules that dictate their survival. Sahabat’s idea of the “drowning dog” symbolizes their hope for escape, pushing Perempuán to join her in a quest to find it.
The Dangers of Strict Rules
One of the most significant themes in The Platform 2 is the danger of strict rules and regulations. The film critiques how a rigid system can dehumanize individuals, stripping them of empathy and morality. The inmates’ experiences showcase how strict adherence to rules can lead to violence and suffering.
Still from The Platform 2 (Credit: Netflix)
As Perempuán and Sahabat shows the tower, they encounter various inmates with differing attitudes towards the system.
Some, like Trimagasi (played by Zorion Eguileor), openly defy the rules and take what they want from the platform. This attitude presents a stark contrast to the more disciplined approach of others, highlighting the tension between conformity and rebellion.
Trimagasi’s lack of respect for the rules demonstrates the potential for chaos in an environment where survival is at stake.
He becomes an influential figure for Perempuán, encouraging her to challenge the established order and join the “barbarians,” those who resist the system. This rebellion against the tower’s laws becomes a central conflict in the film, driving the narrative forward.
The Twist: A Prequel Reveal
One of the most shocking twists in The Platform 2 is the revelation that it serves as a prequel to the original film. When Perempuán’s new roommate is revealed to be Trimagasi from the first movie, viewers realize they are witnessing his first month in the pit. This twist adds layers of complexity to the narrative, allowing audiences to draw connections between the two films.
Trimagasi’s character embodies a carefree attitude towards the rules, openly indulging in the food provided on the platform. His willingness to break the rules sets the stage for Perempuán’s transformation as she shows her morality and desires. Their alliance symbolizes a rebellion against the oppressive system, and together, they rally other inmates to join their cause.
The discovery of the “drowning dog,” which turns out to be a painting, marks a turning point in the narrative. As the characters engage in a battle between the “barbarians” and the “loyalists,” the film intensifies, highlighting the consequences of rebellion against authority. This conflict culminates in a bloodbath that serves as a critique of how societal structures can lead to violence and chaos when pushed to their limits.
The Symbolism of Children in The Platform 2
Children play a significant role in The Platform 2, symbolizing hope and the future. Perempuán’s motivation to forgive herself ties directly to her encounter with a child in the pit. Early in the film, she expresses her desire for redemption, emphasizing that her journey is about more than just survival; it is about making amends for past mistakes.
The imagery of children playing on a large pyramid structure recurs throughout the film. This visual motif raises questions about the presence of children within the platform and what their existence represents. The ambiguity surrounding their role adds an unsettling layer to the narrative, forcing viewers to grapple with the implications of childhood innocence in a brutal world.
As the film progresses, Perempuán’s decision to save a child highlights her moral compass in the face of chaos. When she sees cleaners preparing to strap a child to a bed, she makes the choice to intervene, showcasing her empathy and humanity. This act of kindness becomes a pivotal moment in the film, reinforcing the importance of compassion even in dire circumstances.
However, her attempt to rescue the child ultimately leads to her injury, illustrating the harsh realities of their environment.
The film concludes with Perempuán sitting over the child on the platform at the pit’s base, echoing the ambiguous ending of the first film. This circular narrative reinforces the theme of cycles within the story, where hope and despair coexist.
The Ambiguous Ending and Unanswered Questions
The ending of The Platform 2 is deliberately ambiguous, leaving viewers with many unanswered questions. This open-ended conclusion invites interpretations and discussions among audiences.
As Perempuán confronts her fate and the implications of her choices, the film reflects on the complexities of human nature and the struggle for meaning in a chaotic world.
The cameo appearance of Miharu (played by Alexandra Masangkay), who chooses which child goes on level 333, adds another layer of mystery.
Her presence raises questions about the role of children within the tower and how their lives are manipulated by the system. The ambiguity surrounding her actions reinforces the film’s commentary on power dynamics and societal structures.
The final moments of the film blur the line between reality and hallucination, leaving viewers questioning the nature of Perempuán’s experiences.
The mid-credits scene, featuring Goreng reaching the base of the pit with a child, implies a connection between the two protagonists. Their embrace suggests a reunion that transcends time and reality, inviting speculation about the nature of their relationship.
Themes of Social Justice and Human Nature
At its core, The Platform 2 serves as a commentary on social justice and the nature of humanity. The film show how individuals respond to oppressive systems and the lengths they will go to achieve change.
Perempuán’s journey embodies the struggle for redemption, highlighting the importance of empathy and compassion in a world dominated by self-interest.
The presence of children in the narrative underscores the idea that social change is essential for future generations.
Still from The Platform 2 (Credit: Netflix)
The film suggests that the fight for justice is not just about individual survival but also about creating a better world for those who come after. This theme resonates deeply, reminding audiences of the responsibility they hold towards future generations.
Conclusion: The Future of The Platform Franchise
As The Platform 2 concludes, viewers are left with a mix of emotions and reflections on the themes presented. The film challenges perceptions of morality, power, and survival in a brutal society.
With its complex characters and thought-provoking narrative, The Platform 2 expands on the original film while inviting audiences to engage in discussions about its meaning.
While a third installment has not been confirmed, the ambiguity and open-ended nature of the story leave room for further scheme. The franchise has successfully sparked conversations about human nature, societal structures, and the consequences of our choices.
As viewers continue to dissect the themes and symbols within the series, The Platform remains a powerful commentary on the complexities of life, reminding us of the importance of empathy and the pursuit of justice.
The Platform 2 is available to stream on Netflix, inviting new audiences to experience the gripping narrative and the compelling questions it raises about humanity and society.
