9-1-1 Review: Desperate Times (Season 5 Episode 2)
9-1-1 Season 5 Episode 2, “Desperate Times,” comes up a bit short. Unfortunately, we weren’t expecting it to happen so early into season 5.
The blackout of LA continues and with it comes some pretty remarkable emergencies, which somehow stand out a bit more than anything else that happens on the episode. Which is a flip of what usually happens with 9-1-1 where their personal stories shine more than the emergencies.
Athena vs. Hudson
Let’s start off talking about the big focus, which is naturally Athena and her connection with the serial rapist Hudson. This story has been going on so long now that instead of becoming more interesting, it’s already starting to fizzle.
First, and foremost, it is not plausible on any plane that Athena wouldn’t be checking incessantly to make sure Hudson ended up back in prison. Not even a blackout would have stopped her from checking both for Hudson and Lou.
So, why have the writers created a scenario where Athena hasn’t done any of that for five whole days? Furthermore, she is so invested in this case that she’s staking out the other victims and knows how to get in the guy’s head?
Don’t get me started on her and Michael’s lack of real concern for Harry. The way they act you’d think Harry went over to a friend’s house unexpectedly, not stolen by a predator.
The pieces just aren’t adding up properly and that makes for a very frustrating train of the story from the start of the episode to its end. It’s like the writers couldn’t make up their minds on what level of Athena is going to show up for this situation from start to finish.
And with this being the primary focus of the episode it’s frustrating that none of the pieces fit together properly. We’ve seen so much better for Athena in the past, we need that to consistently remain.
Eddie’s Panic
Eddie continues to struggle with his panic over his relationship with Ana. It’s interesting to see it show up in front of the other members of the team though.
I will say that this part of the episode really works because the writers are fleshing out Eddie’s situation in the best ways possible. He’s trying to brush it off and Ana lets him, but Buck doesn’t.
It’s wonderful to see these two friends come together and discuss the root of Eddie’s panic. While mental health has always been a strong point for 9-1-1, it’s even stronger when it comes to the bonds of family.
Eddie says he’s not ready for this “ready-made” family with Ana and instead of letting him use that excuse, Buck pushes him. In a way, Buck reminds him that he does have a family already and that Eddie is as important a member of that family as anyone else.
Christopher has always been Eddie’s number one priority, but it should never come at the expense of his own mental health. His relationship with Ana is a prime example of that.
It’ll be interesting to continue to see Eddie grow towards a better understanding and respect of himself as the season progresses.
Community Pride
One of the running themes of 9-1-1 Season 5 Episode 2, “Desperate Times” is the idea that community ties run deep. This comes out very strongly at Athena’s own home when the whole neighborhood shows up to spend time together.
Sure, they are all taking advantage of a generator, but still. Community means being there for one another during the hardest of days. Michael and Harry have got that down pat while Athena is off protecting the city.
The other winning moment from this episode comes from the neighbors that string extension cord upon extension cord from house to house in order to save the ventilator of a medically fragile young boy. That is neighborly love right there and is honestly the moment worth talking about over and over again.
If not for the blackout how much you want to bet none of these neighbors would’ve said a word to each other. It’s something we can all learn from, leaning on one another helps us in times of real trouble or doubt.
Minor Emergencies
- I’m already tired of the blackout, don’t know about you. It’s not really serving much of a purpose.
- Can we talk about Buck not being the reckless one this episode, but Cap instead?
- I really hope Maddie gets some real help soon because I worry for her daughter’s safety.
- Alpacas? No thank you. They are in the llama family and absolutely not.
- Gives a whole new meaning to “lions, and tigers, and bears. Oh My!”
- I never thought Buck could get any more endearing and then he was nervous about zoo animals.
What did you think of this episode of 9-1-1? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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9-1-1 airs Mondays at 8/7c on FOX.
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Mads Misasi
Mads is a part-time entertainment journalist and full-time marketing content creator. They love any and all TV Dramas with a few sitcoms mixed in. Join in the fun talking about TV by following them on Twitter: @dorothynyc89.