Manifest Review: Compass Calibration (Season 3 Episode 10)
An episode like Manifest Season 3 Episode 10, “Compass Calibration,” is good in theory, but lacks the execution that the series usually exhibits episode by episode. It introduces interesting premises and includes some interesting character development — after an overall stagnation in this area on Season 3.
If this episode belongs to anybody, it’s Saanvi. She’s had a rough go at it, but “Compass Calibration” exemplifies the growth of her character, while also exposing the digression of Ben.
This episode is probably the most chaotic of the season, but even as it leaves a sinking feeling in my stomach, it also leaves me with a hope that maybe the Stones can rise like a phoenix from the ashes.
It can’t get more symbolic than Angelina’s fire.
Praveen Kaur steals the spotlight on this episode as she finally takes steps forward to help the others on her lifeboat after spending many episodes afraid and anxious, keeping her sins inside.
After all, Manifest started as primarily a science fiction drama and slowly has morphed into a show that speaks on religion and faith as well. After she confesses her sins, she follows the signs left for them by a higher power.
Even though her steps forward put her at odds with Michaela, Saanvi’s positive growth is still empowering. But as with other arcs in “Compass Calibration,” an otherwise strong story is slightly brought down by the juxtaposition with Cal.
Manifest‘s neglect of his character stills seems off.
He’s been poised as a special character, connected with the callings in a way no other 828er is, except all he does is stare at a snowglobe. He, like Grace, almost feels like a non-playable character in a video game — just there.
While Saanvi takes steps forward, Ben takes leaps backward.
He’s always had an annoying savior complex, but “Compass Calibration” tries to show how his love for his son takes him too far — threatening the future of everyone. But it doesn’t land.
Ben is the protagonist, sure, but the way he co-opts another passenger’s very real mental illness to make it about his very alive son doesn’t sit right as someone who also has been diagnosed with anxiety.
In a way, this does help Manifest achieve its goal by distancing Ben from the morally right with his belligerence, but there’s also a way to do this without isolating certain sections of its audience.
At least Astrid is able to face her fears and help save her coworker’s son — it’s even better that she does this far away from his selfish pressure.
Angelina’s meltdown rivals Ben’s plotline in terms of chaos, but it is way more fun.
I didn’t necessarily expect her to go Cruel Summer on Olive, but it’s hard not to enjoy watching her burn the bedroom down to test her theories about Eden’s role.
Angelina is the proof that Manifest intends to lean into its newly revealed biblical perspective. She came from a religious background and has an intense connection with a child named Eden.
Her name is Angel-ina.
But if she does have a different role to play other than callings, a big question is why. Whatever it is, I want to know more. I also want to know if this behavior is actually Angelina or if there’s some other aspect in play.
At the same time, it would be nice to see Zeke if a bigger plot than the yes-man. Between Michaela and Angelina, his only purpose seems to confirm people’s intentions, when his past on the show merits a much more complex story.
“Compass Calibration” shows that the series has great ideas reminiscent of timeless and dramatic science fiction, but needs to take a little bit more time wrapping the box around the final product.
Still, this episode sets up Manifest to end with even more discoveries and repercussions with only three episodes left in the season, with news on the fourth season still pending.
What did you think of this episode of Manifest? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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Manifest airs Thursdays at 8/7c on NBC.
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Amanda Reimer
In addition to working as a freelance writer, Amanda also works with animals and stage manages various live performances. She has an invested interest in the perspective and experience of fandoms as well as anything in the science-fiction genre. She also loves spoiling her cats, Drummer and Kiki.