Miracle Workers: Oregon Trail Review: Independence Rock (Season 3 Episode 6)

The Fourth of July is synonymous with shenanigans and fireworks, so naturally Miracle Workers: Oregon Trail Season 3 Episode 6, “Independence Rock” leans into that wholeheartedly. 

Poor Zeke, the man really needs to work on his confidence and taking ownership of who he is. This whole episode we sit by and watch as he flounders and falters in order to please his new wife, Phaedra instead of sticking to his guns. 

Living a life of lies is not the way one should go, ever, but especially not when you are sharing your life with someone else. So, it’s refreshing that Zeke finds his voice by the end of the episode and stands his ground on what he loves about the Fourth of July. 

It doesn’t escape this queer reviewers notice that there are some major queer undertones to this episode. First, Zeke agrees to live a life that’s a lie in order to make the ones he loves happy. Then again with the Patriot calling out Zeke in such a way that is queer coded — from his mannerisms to the way he uses certain phrases known within the queer community. 

It’s a nice little nod to a growing number of individuals who are realizing that living a life of lies isn’t how they want to be anymore. It’s more culturally acceptable to be out and proud as who you are, in most areas, which makes hiding a little less necessary. 

While, it’s not implicitly queer in nature, for all the queer viewers the sentiment is there and it makes us feel seen, heard, and respected. Especially, when we consider the other aspect of things which is Zeke’s heavy connection to the religious teachings of God. 

There are many people who have been rejected by their religious groups for being who they are and Zeke shows these individuals that it’s okay, they are still loved. Zeke pushes past his wife’s desire to have him “pray the patriot away” and goes out in search of his fireworks. 

The imagery and metaphorical language of this episode really can’t be understated. It’s what makes this episode one of the strongest ones so far this season. Never mind that we also finally get some headway with Zeke and Prudence.  

I have stated in the past that I don’t like cheating storylines and I stand by that sentiment. However, the way Zeke and Prudence are written and portrayed makes us forget that they have significant others whenever they are spending time together. 

There is a fire between them that is real, raw, and undeniable. It seems only fair that they eventually end up together. Unfortunately, there are significant others to be considered and so while I want to be over the moon happy about this development I honestly can’t.

As much as Todd sucks as a husband to Prudence and Phaedra is the most obnoxious woman, they are still married to their counterparts and that is a commitment that can’t be denied. The writers should’ve never had Zeke marry Phaedra because it doesn’t make sense and it simply makes Zeke even less of an honorable man.

It’s easier to see Prudence walking away from Todd at some point because she is her own independent woman. That sort of outcome for her tracks with who she is and isn’t as against her character if she does get a divorce.

However, Zeke is hesitant to go through with a divorce. It’s a major plot point that can’t be ignored and if the writers do choose to ignore it will make Zeke go back on who he is, and not in a moving forward kind of way. 

It’s for this exact reason that I have been hesitant to accept Zeke and Prudence as a possible couple from the beginning. I do want them to be together because their chemistry is undeniable, but not at the expense of either of their character development. 

On the flip side, the friendship and bond that is emerging between Dingus and Benny is the stuff of legend. Not to be entirely serious, but there is a part of me that wants to queer code these two characters. If only just to have them kiss — because that is totally their vibe right now. 

Dingus shows up to Independence Rock not to hunt Benny but to spend time with him and give him a hug. They are just so perfectly matched in every scene. 

Whenever Karan Soni and Steve Buscemi are in a scene together they steal the whole show. It’s just that beautiful of an enemy/friendship bond between them. And when Benny goes a bit soft at the end it’s hilarious to watch Dingus try to secretly slip off while silently apologizing. 

This entire episode really brings to light the strong chemistry between all the characters and turns them into a more united team. So much so that we feel the group’s heartbreak when they all realize Benny is leaving them behind. 

Stray Thoughts

• Prudence eating her feelings is such a mood.
• Zeke’s heartfelt moment with Benny at the end is filled with words everyone needs to hear. “That’s not weakness. That’s strength. It means that deep down inside you’re a good person.”

What did you think of this episode of Miracle Workers: Oregon Trail? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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Miracle Workers: Oregon Trail airs Tuesdays at 10:30/9:30c on TBS.

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