The Orville Season 3 Episode 9 Review: Domino
The Orville is really beginning to show a knack for action focused episodes, and for bringing stories full-circle.
On The Orville Season 3 Episode 9, “Domino,” several ‘dominoes’ begin to fall that were set up in previous episodes during Season 3. “Domino,” in fact, knocks down so many dominoes that viewers may wonder what’s left for the season finale.
“Domino” taps into several stories from previous episodes in the season. The failed alliance with the Krill, the Moclan expulsion from the union, — and the more personal stories like Ed’s secret child and the Kaylon conflict — all come into play here.
Honestly, it’s somewhat surprising that “Domino” isn’t the season finale, because it reads like one. It’s something of a culmination of many season-long (and series-long) arcs.
Some of the inciting incident is predictable, the Krill’s hostility toward the union makes for a relatively likely bedfellow with the recently-expelled Moclans. Based on all of the work they’ve done with Timmas and Isaac during Season 3 — the fact that the Union ends up allying with the Kaylons is not particularly surprising.
The real strength of “Domino” is the execution. All season, The Orville has knocked each episode out of the park. This is complemented by the incredible production value and how well each element of the story is executed.
So even when their stories don’t quite land the way they’re intended, The Orville is an absolute treat to watch.
Perhaps the most powerful of the multi-episode arcs that wraps on “Domino” is the story of Charly Burke. Most fans are aware of Charly and her tenuous relationship with the Kaylons after the battle against them took her beloved from her.
The whole season, culminating with “Domino,” depicts Charly’s contempt for Kaylon kind. But she also exhibits growth. She learns about good Kaylons and about their history that caused them to react violently, which softens her to them.
Isaac: They are worthy of preservation. They are my friends.
The really important point about Charly’s arc is that she never forgot her lost loved one, Amanda. Even though she recognizes the situation she was in as grey and fluid – Amanda’s influence reigns in her heart. Charly ultimately sacrifices herself for her crewmates, the Kaylon society, and the Union way of life.
Anne Winters gives a stellar performance over Season 3 as Ensign Charly Burke. She plays a pivotal role in more than one episode, and represents that not every situation is black and white. Her character will be sorely missed.
A few stray thoughts:
- Adrianne Palicki does not get enough credit for being a full-on action hero. She’s doing incredible work on this show.
- A really surprising but pivotal arc — Ted Danson’s character Admiral Perry sneaking behind the Union to help facilitate the Kaylon elimination. Well done, but sorry to see Danson’s character killed off.
- On that same note — it’s great to see Victor Garber get into the action a little more.
- “Here’s to you dad! Let’s get hammered!”
- I imagine that the final episode of the season will have to do with the aftermath of the fight, and that Ed will be reunited with his daughter Anaya. Here’s hoping, anyway!
What did you think of this episode of The Orville? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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Nick Hogan
Nick Hogan is an experienced podcaster and writer (particularly on media topics), who loves discussion and analysis of TV and is always looking for new shows to watch. He is also a parent who loves buffalo wings, blowing raspberries, and his beloved Cincinnati Reds.
One thought on “The Orville Season 3 Episode 9 Review: Domino”
Loved the episode. Made me cry. Wish you could have achieved the same result without losing Charlie.
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