Episode 6: Riots, Drills, and the Devil

In the previous episode, a number of plot contrivances were required for the story to work. As it turns out, the writers were probably just trying to get to this part of the story on schedule. Since this two-part story brings the season about a third of the way, this is typically when the arc begins to complicate in a more serious fashion. Everything to this point was introduction of the situation and the main characters, such as they are. Now, one would expect, everyone likely to know about the escape plan does know.

Events require a lot less contrivance this time around, because the previous episode took that hit. Sure, it shouldn’t be so easy for Michael to come and go, but if his scheme in the previous episode didn’t screw that up, nothing will. So when it comes down to shutting down the air handling system, I buy it. Just as I accept the consequences.


The riot itself evolves slowly but surely, and it escalates in ways that are consistent with the characters and their previous development. Bellick takes a bad situation and makes it worse, and from where I’m sitting, he’s the one responsible for the situation getting out of hand. He waits far too long to take his men seriously. When dealing with a maniac like T-Bag, getting him even more worked up is a huge mistake.

The rookie guard Bob weaves in and out of the most important moments in the riot. Lincoln gets to show his true colors by trying to save Bob’s life. Granted, he gets beat down rather nicely for it, but he tries. If there’s a questionable moment, it’s when T-Bag conveniently tosses Bob into Michael’s cell, thus revealing the hole in the wall. The fact that Bob knows about this is a problem; the fact that T-Bag knows is an even bigger problem.


Of course, the timetable is such that the escape attempt can’t be too long coming. I’d be shocked if it took longer than mid-season to happen. At least, the first attempt, since I doubt it will go smoothly. I don’t think the series can go the entire season within the prison walls, if only because Michael’s plan is relatively simple, based on what he mentioned. As long as Lincoln and Michael are in the prison, it’s too easy for the conspiracy.

What I really like about this episode is the intensity level. It’s through the roof, to say the least. Sara’s situation is horrific, and while the promos gave quite a bit away, it’s still not going to be easy for her to get out unscathed. Nor will Lincoln have an easy time of it. The riot has literally thrown everything wide open, and the chaotic nature of the story allows the audience to feel the anxiety over how it will all play out. More than even the race riot, this two-parter takes advantage of the setting.

As usual, the one weakness is the conspiracy angle. It shouldn’t have been that easy for someone to track the source of that phone call to Washington, DC. For one thing, the conspiracy shouldn’t have been stupid enough to make that call, let alone leave a trail behind. I still think Mr. Helpful is a conspiracy mole, because at this point, the conspiracy is looking stupid otherwise. That side of the story was not properly conceived.

Still, that’s a minor point in comparison to the intensity of the rest of the episode. I was quite surprised at how engaging this episode was, especially after being disappointed last time around. Hopefully the second half of the two-parter will be equally as strong, especially since the series needs to go into its MLB hiatus on a high note.