Excellent heartfelt moments in this one, wacky, weird, funny. Absolutely loving this show now, these past 3 episodes feel very different from the first two if I'm being honest and it's working a lot better.
22 Reviews
Best episode so far?
Sleepin_Dragon11 February 2023
Stede and crew host a spectacle, Izzy Hands uses it as an opportunity to try and push Blackbeard into polishing off Stede.
I know I seem to say this after every single episode, but this wonderful show just seems to get better and better.
Some outrageous scenes to enjoy here, first off, I absolutely obsessed by the mythological story of The Kraken, a creature that was so big, and so powerful, it overturned ships with ease. I digress, the actual spectacle, hilarious, Lucius dealing with his finger in no uncertain terms, I spat my coffee out, and of course the 'run in' with the sword.
Definitely fully of funny moments, but this was also full of some quite touching, moving moments, who knows what went on onboard those pirate ships.
Glorious, 9/10.
I know I seem to say this after every single episode, but this wonderful show just seems to get better and better.
Some outrageous scenes to enjoy here, first off, I absolutely obsessed by the mythological story of The Kraken, a creature that was so big, and so powerful, it overturned ships with ease. I digress, the actual spectacle, hilarious, Lucius dealing with his finger in no uncertain terms, I spat my coffee out, and of course the 'run in' with the sword.
Definitely fully of funny moments, but this was also full of some quite touching, moving moments, who knows what went on onboard those pirate ships.
Glorious, 9/10.
Softest episode
loganrileylarocque30 October 2023
Warning: Spoilers
This episode blew me away. Queer representation is so far and few between, but this episode is the perfect example of casual representation. I will never get over how precious Stede and Ed are in the bathroom. Ed is even holding stedes yellow robe to comfort himself. He surrounds himself with all the fine things in Stedes ship, like the elegant bathroom and the soft cloths. But he finds himself even more lonely, until stede comes in. Stede gives him a safe space to fully process his emotions, and it leaves him feeling better than before. Izzy has been his only comfort thus far, but has always pushed Ed out to make room for Blackbeard, who he admires to a fault. Stede provides what Izzy could never give, and it's beautiful.
Behold... the KRAKEN!
jamienamine4 October 2023
While the show has mostly been about Stede up until this point, it's nice to be able to focus on his counterpart in Ed, along with his foil in Izzy. Ed's backstory is a tragic one, and it only makes it more sad that he's been forced into a life which relies on violence. Whether or not he "enjoys a good maim," that doesn't mean he wants to be a pirate, and this episode does a good job of continuing the narrative of why that role weighs so heavily on him. Seeing Izzy Hands vying so desperately for his captain's respect, attempting to keep him safe by forcing him to stay within the usual rules and expectations of piracy, is sad to witness, since he's clearly going against what would make Ed happy.
Excellent episode
c-1538421 September 2023
Episode six is a lot of fun whilst also having threads of enthralling drama running through it. It carries on the whole-season storyline whilst also featuring the characters enjoying a light-hearted foray into theatrics. There are scenes of pure mayhem, and scenes of heartfelt drama. The cast do an absolutely fantastic job of showcasing both.
Although the episode is mostly set on the ship, it features some beautifully shot and visually memorable scenes. The script includes a lot of great humour and it translates into a highly effective comedic episode. It is a very well put-together piece of television.
Although the episode is mostly set on the ship, it features some beautifully shot and visually memorable scenes. The script includes a lot of great humour and it translates into a highly effective comedic episode. It is a very well put-together piece of television.
favorite episode
snyderjacq15 September 2023
Warning: Spoilers
This is my favorite episode of this show. I really like the whole thing and the second half is so strong but of all of them I like this best because it has a few moments that are so funny I hollered laughing and it also has an emotional scene towards the end between the two lead actors that I felt connected to and moved by. The writing on this episode is so strong and I want to see more of Simone Nathan's work after seeing this. I love the improvising in this show and really enjoyed Samba Schutte's acting when he is asked to treat his crewmate's infected finger. The directing is clever and as usual the sets and costumes are so great.
this episode has everything
givemebaretrees16 September 2023
Warning: Spoilers
There's so much in this episode that's good and worth talking about--the swordfighting, the haunted ship pretense, every single one of the crew interactions. I love that the crew doesn't really need Stede to put together their act, and I loved the B-plot where we get to see Lucius's place in the crew (along with some ABSOLUTELY HILARIOUS line delivery from Samba Schutte as Roach). And of course, the swordfighting scene is very fun--Stede's inability to actually swordfight because Edward was really just swordfighting with him for fun, vs Izzy. We can also see in this episode that the crew's attitude towards Stede has shifted--they dislike Izzy, so they're united in favor of Stede during the swordfight.
In truth, this episode is one of the most pirate-y of the whole show, and I'm pretty sure they didn't even actually successfully steal anything. But it doesn't matter--it was a VERY fun ride along the way.
In truth, this episode is one of the most pirate-y of the whole show, and I'm pretty sure they didn't even actually successfully steal anything. But it doesn't matter--it was a VERY fun ride along the way.
Ridiculousness and Romance
traceyseier2 October 2023
This is the episode where we really see everything the show has to offer. All the big themes and relationships start to come to maturity here.
This episode gives us comedy, social commentary, a lot of second-hand embarrassment, and, best of all, romance.
We also start to see this show is really unapologetically a queer show that centers values such as honesty in relationships, body positivity, and a refusal to take on toxic shame. The episode delivers some lovely anti-racist and anti-classist commentary as well.
Lucius slays here. This is arguably the best episode for really enjoying this character. On a ship full of LGBTQ+ pirates, he's "the gay one" and this episode is why.
This episode gives us comedy, social commentary, a lot of second-hand embarrassment, and, best of all, romance.
We also start to see this show is really unapologetically a queer show that centers values such as honesty in relationships, body positivity, and a refusal to take on toxic shame. The episode delivers some lovely anti-racist and anti-classist commentary as well.
Lucius slays here. This is arguably the best episode for really enjoying this character. On a ship full of LGBTQ+ pirates, he's "the gay one" and this episode is why.
Such a lovable and fun ride
erinsdodge17 September 2023
The Art of Fuckery is perfection from beginning to end-
The action and foreshadowing are set up from the jump, and come together in delightful and surprising ways by the end of the episode.
As always, the show mixes an absurdity and hilarity with poignant and moving moments, an underlying uneasy suspense, and then tops it all off with thrilling action that makes the heart soar.
This show puts me in the mind of something like "The Princess Bride;" Joyous and anarchic and silly and able to bring you to tears of joy and emotion.
I love this episode for its playful and ridiculous concept, and the joy of all the characters getting to play and celebrate together.
The action and foreshadowing are set up from the jump, and come together in delightful and surprising ways by the end of the episode.
As always, the show mixes an absurdity and hilarity with poignant and moving moments, an underlying uneasy suspense, and then tops it all off with thrilling action that makes the heart soar.
This show puts me in the mind of something like "The Princess Bride;" Joyous and anarchic and silly and able to bring you to tears of joy and emotion.
I love this episode for its playful and ridiculous concept, and the joy of all the characters getting to play and celebrate together.
They Can't Keep Getting Away With This!!
magicalmrmistofelees4 October 2023
Every subsequent episode of this show feels like the best one so far, and this is no exception. The hijinks are hilarious, the tender moments are so unbelievably tender, the character growth is off the charts, the plot is ever twistier... There's literally nothing bad I can say about it.
I think another aspect that contributes to the beauty of this episode is the balance of conflict and peace. We as viewers know, in the end, that there is a looming threat to our captains and their crews, and yet we also get to relish in the joy of them finding moments of peaceful understanding with each other, which is so perfect I wish it wasn't so fleeting.
I think another aspect that contributes to the beauty of this episode is the balance of conflict and peace. We as viewers know, in the end, that there is a looming threat to our captains and their crews, and yet we also get to relish in the joy of them finding moments of peaceful understanding with each other, which is so perfect I wish it wasn't so fleeting.
(the writers, about this episode): I designed it for flow!
blueruvy5 November 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Narratively everything is really coming together on this one, not least because we realise that both Stede and Ed are actually just theatre kids, which explains SO much. I think by this episode we've been waiting to see the darker side of Blackbeard that would reconcile sweet charismatic 'Ed' with the terrifying pirate the rest of the world knows. And hooo boy, we got it. We see the real heart of the show come out, here, in Stede and Ed's deep conversation.
By this episode I really started to be warmed by the body diversity and casual intimacy of this ensemble cast. The fact that everyone here is just a person, with imperfections and quirks, physically and personality-wise. It's comforting. I love media where anyone could plausibly be in it, where adventure and acceptance is not only the purview of the young, phenomenally rich, and beautiful. I could be in this. You could be in this. And that makes it important in the landscape of media we tend to get.
The collaborative project of the prank on the Dutch merchants really helps solidify the 'found family' theme of the show. It also makes this a perfect Halloween watch.
Ewen Bremner is a notable delight in this ep, we didn't see him lat episode so his uniquely unhinged portrayal in this one is delightful and welcome.
Izzy's "Ohhh my god. (oh my god). Oh my GOD!" was so funny to me I'm sure I've dreamt about it. Con O'Neill absolutely nailed that, 3/5 stages of grief. Yet again he nailed the whole episode, giving every line 100% effort.
The episode hit my heart like Roach's sandwich hit Izzy in the head.
By this episode I really started to be warmed by the body diversity and casual intimacy of this ensemble cast. The fact that everyone here is just a person, with imperfections and quirks, physically and personality-wise. It's comforting. I love media where anyone could plausibly be in it, where adventure and acceptance is not only the purview of the young, phenomenally rich, and beautiful. I could be in this. You could be in this. And that makes it important in the landscape of media we tend to get.
The collaborative project of the prank on the Dutch merchants really helps solidify the 'found family' theme of the show. It also makes this a perfect Halloween watch.
Ewen Bremner is a notable delight in this ep, we didn't see him lat episode so his uniquely unhinged portrayal in this one is delightful and welcome.
Izzy's "Ohhh my god. (oh my god). Oh my GOD!" was so funny to me I'm sure I've dreamt about it. Con O'Neill absolutely nailed that, 3/5 stages of grief. Yet again he nailed the whole episode, giving every line 100% effort.
The episode hit my heart like Roach's sandwich hit Izzy in the head.
One of my favorite episodes
tannihernandez23 October 2023
This is one of my favorite episodes of this entire show and perfectly encapsulates what this show does so well: striking a delicate balance between whacky humor and softer, more heartfelt moments that really make you empathize with and love the characters.
After listening to some spooky stories aboard the Revenge and witnessing one of Blackbeard's elaborate setups to turn an enemies own worst fears against them, the crew decide to attempt such a scheme themselves. Meanwhile, Izzy pressures Ed/Blackbeard to do what he said he would and kill Stede, but Ed isn't sure he wants to anymore. It's a fun, silly time until Blackbeard himself ends up terrified and experiencing PTSD, which leads to the most precious and adorable little character interaction between him and Stede. I was crying. They are so precious to me. The sword fight at the end brings back the lighter, more comedic tone of the show but leads to some interesting ramifications that set up the conflict to come. Great episode for character development, entertainment, and plot advancement.
After listening to some spooky stories aboard the Revenge and witnessing one of Blackbeard's elaborate setups to turn an enemies own worst fears against them, the crew decide to attempt such a scheme themselves. Meanwhile, Izzy pressures Ed/Blackbeard to do what he said he would and kill Stede, but Ed isn't sure he wants to anymore. It's a fun, silly time until Blackbeard himself ends up terrified and experiencing PTSD, which leads to the most precious and adorable little character interaction between him and Stede. I was crying. They are so precious to me. The sword fight at the end brings back the lighter, more comedic tone of the show but leads to some interesting ramifications that set up the conflict to come. Great episode for character development, entertainment, and plot advancement.
The Kraken!
vthompsett4 October 2023
Warning: Spoilers
This is another favourite episode because we get to know Ed a bit more, and what scares him. The comedy of the episode is of course on top form, especially with Stede's idea of theatre, Lucius' finger drama and some wonderful improvised lines. The real stars of this episode however are Darby and Waititi, who demonstrate the growing trust and affection between Bonnet and Teach. I love how Bonnet shoulders the door open in order to get to Ed, and how he offers to forget the whole idea of murdering him. It's sweet, unconditionally forgiving, and both actors really do it justice. Shout out, too, to Damien Gerard as Father Teach!
Heartfelt and Hilarious
penniellington15 September 2023
Warning: Spoilers
The guys get wind of a Dutch ship due to pass by and decide to create a ruse to trick them into coming aboard, so that they can test their skills as pirates and turn the tables on them.
Izzy decides that this is the time that Edward needs to live up to his promise of learning from Stede and then getting rid of him, but taking his ship. Only, ever since Stede rescued Ed from those posh knobs at the boat party, Ed has grown too fond of Stede to harm him.
This is also an episode with some heartfelt confessions, that make you fall in love with these 2 even more.
A stellar episode that starts to really cement what Ed and Stede mean to each other.
Izzy decides that this is the time that Edward needs to live up to his promise of learning from Stede and then getting rid of him, but taking his ship. Only, ever since Stede rescued Ed from those posh knobs at the boat party, Ed has grown too fond of Stede to harm him.
This is also an episode with some heartfelt confessions, that make you fall in love with these 2 even more.
A stellar episode that starts to really cement what Ed and Stede mean to each other.
lovely
razzapple_14 January 2024
Warning: Spoilers
This episode will ALWAYS leave me in shambles no matter how many times I watch it, it's so painfully sweet oh my god. Finally getting a full insight to Ed's childhood and the way he views himself and Stede. The bathtub scene is so vulnerable and the way he used Stede's robes for comfort is the sweetest thing. Not to mention the symbolism of a confessional, with the two being super close and intimat yet still visually separated by appearing in different mirrors and being obstructed by shadows. I could talk about this for hours but the way this represents Ed's feelings about himself and Stede is so extremely poetic I love it. Plus of course, the foreshadowing and pacing is on point as always and this episode does such good job at blending the comedic aspects with the heavier parts, I absolutely adore this episode.
Bad dad made him drown the dog((
catrinlok7 October 2023
Warning: Spoilers
So, where is where all things change dramatically, isn't it? Ed tries to make himself perpetrate something really awfull to the one he really values as a friend and, since the previous episode, as a guard also. All this just to fit the life he doesn't want, not to lose the support of the one he doesn't want to stay with... It looks like a comedy episode but hides a drama deep inside. But can we now talk about Swede singing so beautiful, as Wee Jown being a charismatic Black Cat of Death?) Also, Pete is my little hero, with his worry for Lucius ad that wooden finger))
See how humane Stede is here, this is what really makes him the real captain of The Revenge, since the beginning and the whole time after. Not 'weak' or 'soft', but really having that love for people, ready to be injured not to injure hi own opponent, at the time the opponent acts ruthless, arrogant and disrespectful. It doesn't seem so now, but the day will come when Izzy will fully feel and understand how much stronger Stede is than everyone he ever used to know.
Things come to a head
quirkysubject11 February 2024
This was an inteteresting episode, character wise. We get to know more about the mysterious Blackbeard's past, as well as the demons that haunt him. The scene in the bathtub is one of my favourites in the entire show - moving, sad, but still with a thread of humour woven through it. Brilliant acting by Taika Waititi!
Izzy really grows into his role a villain here. In the previous episodes, he was more of an unpleasant annoyance, but now his bad influence on Edward and the lengths he will go to in order to keep his murderous pirate persona.
Favourite line: "You triggered my fight or bite response."
Izzy really grows into his role a villain here. In the previous episodes, he was more of an unpleasant annoyance, but now his bad influence on Edward and the lengths he will go to in order to keep his murderous pirate persona.
Favourite line: "You triggered my fight or bite response."
Stabbed on the left
jacksneeringer4 February 2024
Warning: Spoilers
Absolutely HILARIOUS episode with so much heart and the perfect amount of emotion to balance it out.
Episode six totally encapsulates Our Flag Means Death when it's at its best. You get hijinks, an air of magical realism, romance, heart, an honest glimpse of vulnerability from Edward, and utter stupidity. Nathan Foad's performance is once again on point. Taika's ability to show such heart in his acting truly shines through, and Rhys spends the episode being just utterly hilarious.
This episode progresses Ed and Stede's relationship so beautifully, with Ed finally outwardly acknowledging how much Stede means to him. A perfect emotional beat that will carry us forward into the rest of the season. 10/10!!
Episode six totally encapsulates Our Flag Means Death when it's at its best. You get hijinks, an air of magical realism, romance, heart, an honest glimpse of vulnerability from Edward, and utter stupidity. Nathan Foad's performance is once again on point. Taika's ability to show such heart in his acting truly shines through, and Rhys spends the episode being just utterly hilarious.
This episode progresses Ed and Stede's relationship so beautifully, with Ed finally outwardly acknowledging how much Stede means to him. A perfect emotional beat that will carry us forward into the rest of the season. 10/10!!
Sweet and satisfying - overall a beautiful episode
angelamguzman14 January 2024
Warning: Spoilers
The bathtub scene is perfection. It's vulnerable and validating and wonderful. Seeing Ed surround himself with all of Stede's fine things like his robes to comfort himself is absolutely beautiful. I can't really explain it, but it's giving the sad undertones of Good Omens 2x2 with the "that sounds..." "what?" "lonely." "no not lonely!" and later the, "that sounds, um..." "lonely? Yep." "but you said it wasn't!" "I lied."
Roundabout way of explaining it, but anyway! The visuals are beautiful, the lines are poetic and soothing. The writers did an outstanding job with this one. The blending of comedy and drama is so well done here.
#renewasacrew #saveOFMD.
#renewasacrew #saveOFMD.
Surprising Artistry Amidst a Lot of Nonsense
kshiran-3801623 January 2024
Warning: Spoilers
Rewatching and noticing all sorts of things I never did at first. The first time around, it's just silliness. The second time around, you get to really appreciate both the beautiful ways this was shot (Izzy's hand stroking the curtain, the refracted reflections in the bathtub scene) and the oddly tender emotional tentpoles at the center of the episode. No, none of them are *nice* people. They're pirates. Also, it's a sitcom, and by law everyone in a sitcom is awful. But the teamwork of the crew while Stede is having a hissy fit, all working to play to one another's strengths, and the wooden finger scene... and, yes, of course the tenderness between Stede and Ed as they navigate lack of murder. But the crew really pull it all together emotionally. It's an ensemble.
The friendship theme
polagmaj29 September 2023
This is an excellent episode of this wonderful series. It is theatrical to the core, with grand spectacle organized by Stede the Gentleman Pirate to impress the Dread Pirate Blackbeard, whom he came to regard as a friend.
This friendship theme appears throughout the episode. Starting with enthusiastic awe Stede has for Blackbeard and his theatrics. Going strong with the "intervention" Izzy stages for his captain, whom he deems unhinged. And ending with the most tender of friendship confessions scenes ever.
The humour of Our Flag Means Death shine here with great acting by the whole cast, especially Rhys Darby as the excited, fangirling, oblivious and tender Stede Bonnet.
This friendship theme appears throughout the episode. Starting with enthusiastic awe Stede has for Blackbeard and his theatrics. Going strong with the "intervention" Izzy stages for his captain, whom he deems unhinged. And ending with the most tender of friendship confessions scenes ever.
The humour of Our Flag Means Death shine here with great acting by the whole cast, especially Rhys Darby as the excited, fangirling, oblivious and tender Stede Bonnet.
See also
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