At the end of episode four, it was revealed that Andy would have to come face to face with his murderous father. Played by none other than J.K. Simmons.
J.K. Simmons Can Be Frightening
Let me start out by saying that J.K. Simmons is a force of nature. If you didn’t feel chilled to your bone every time he was on screen, then I’m not sure what affects you. Episode five of this Apple TV+ miniseries very much played on the saying, “sins of the father”. Not only does Andy Barber’s father’s past actions seemingly have emotional and mental ramifications, but Andy’s actions in episode 5 will seemingly have physical ramifications. We can already see that Andy is beginning to play fast and loose with what he is allowed to do. When Andy said he’d do anything to prove the innocence of his son, it looks like he meant it.
This doesn’t just end at seeing the man who he calls father in prison, but flattening someone’s tire so he’d have time to question a boy, who may have information pertaining to the case.
When a Kid Can’t Be a Kid
We find out more about Jacob’s classmates, specifically why Sarah and Derek were behaving oddly during the time of questioning, in the beginning of the series. While they are kids, every single one of them is dealing with something way more adult than I believe any of them are prepared for. It’s unfortunate that, not only for Jacob; but for all of the kids that they have to deal with something so mature, when they should just be kids. There’s something dark brewing though in the underbelly of this world and we’re slowly unearthing it.
As this family struggles to remain put together, all parties are being pulled apart by the seams. It’s obvious that we are getting closer to the reason why Andy sits in front of Neal, testifying to a grand jury. Andy’s persistence to save his son is getting more intense and underneath it all, we still wonder: did Jacob actually kill Ben? And why does it seem like the mom, Laurie; may believe her son is capable of doing so?
Rating: 4.5/5
As always, the writing for this show is superb. Episode five picked up momentum, whereas episode four felt a little slower than previous episodes. J.K. Simmons was the standout in this episode, even though everyone did such a great job. Chris Evans and Michelle Dockery are convincing as a couple trying to keep themselves together, but feeling the weight of the events around them. I really cannot wait to see what happens next.
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