The Americans (TV Series) Pastor Tim (2016) User Reviews

"We're in trouble"

[Mr-Fusion · 8/10 · 15 June 2017]

'Pastor Tim' is an episode that, from beginning to end, goes about its business with workmanlike efficiency; nothing showy, just good old- fashioned quiet tension. Except for one scene, in which Philip strangles the life out of an airport security guy . . . then again, that scene's played with serious weight.

The Jennings' marriage is under threat from a variety of sources; Henry's spending more time with Stan Beeman, and Paige is blowing her parents' cover to a priest. The threats just don't let up.

It ends not with a bang, but with a whimper. Really, the only way to go out. And Philip and Elizabeth are in a serious pinch.

8/10

Strongly continues the descent into further darkness

[snoozejonc · 9/10 · 22 February 2021]

Phillip is assigned to help smuggle a package out of the country whilst Elizabeth makes a worrying discovery.

Again, it's difficult to say I enjoyed this episode of The Americans due to so many of the characters being in such a bleak place, but I appreciate how well made it is.

The plot starts immediately where 'Glanders' finishes and is as compelling as ever. The lives being led by the main protagonists is really starting to have an impact on every aspect of their lives and things seem to be snowballing. It finishes with them in a situation where there is seemingly no escape. Although I have got an inkling of a possible twist that might change things, but I could easily be way off the mark with that one.

I found the scenes with Nina just as intriguing as she is someone trapped in a seemingly difficult situation who chooses an unexpected path. However, it might be naivety on my part to think there is no survival strategy, but who knows?

Happy to see there is one scene amongst it that provided much amusement. In these dark television show moments I think this type of relief is very much needed. I hope we see more like this so the show, however compelling, doesn't become a totally joyless affair. Come to think of it, even this scene has a tinge of sadness to it, given that these two unrelated characters are drawn together due to the difficulties in their own family lives.

Some of the cinematography was excellent, particularly one scene with Paige and Elizabeth where Paige crosses a visual divide between them.

All performances are excellent with all actors portraying the Jennings family doing excellent work along with Annet Mahendru and Noah Emmerich.

For me it is an 8.5/10 but I round upwards.