Episode 7 of Lazarus, titled “Almost Blue,” takes a more introspective turn as Team Lazarus follows a new lead in their hunt for Dr. Skinner. The team uncovers a disturbing connection between Skinner’s past and the present crisis, alongside some character’s secrets coming to light.
Sunken Coordinates and Submerged Pasts
Following leads obtained from the Naga AI, Team Lazarus discovers coordinates pointing to four islands swallowed by rising sea levels: the Maldives, Manila Bay, the Sakishima Islands, and Tuvalu . These locations were all purchased by Dr. Skinner before their submersion . The team splits up to investigate, hoping to find clues about Skinner’s motives .
- Maldives: Axel visits the Maldives and learns from a boat captain that Hapna may have been inspired by “analgesia,” a condition causing numbness to pain .
- Other Islands: Doug, Leland, and Chris visit the other islands, finding little sign of Skinner’s presence . They discover that Skinner bought these islands to relocate the locals, and many of them possess the analgesia gene . Chris reflects on how beautiful the water and sky are without humans, suggesting Skinner wanted them to see the damage humanity has caused .
The team realizes Skinner may be guiding them to understand the experiences that led him to create Hapna . Axel begins to suspect Skinner wants them to understand his reasoning by experiencing the consequences of humanity’s actions firsthand .
Hersch’s History and Eleina’s Discovery
While the team investigates the sunken islands, Eleina stays behind and uncovers a hidden secret about Hersch . Eleina discovers Hersch’s connection to Dr. Skinner through her research into Hapna’s creation and Skinner’s work with the Hague Institute . It is revealed that Hersch was an associate of Dr. Skinner . Hersch and Abel discuss Skinner, and it seems Hersch didn’t expect to be left out of Skinner’s plans .
Hersch reveals that Axel is the key to finding Skinner, hinting at a special purpose he holds . Abel informs Hersch that the army’s intelligence branch is investigating Axel, suggesting Hersch’s reasons for including him on Team Lazarus go beyond his combat skills .
Character Moments and Philosophical Undercurrents
Episode 7 provides opportunities for character development and introspection . The team has some downtime to explore their personalities . Leland questions what will happen to the team after they find Skinner, while Doug is more pragmatic about their association ending . The team reflects on Skinner’s motives and whether the world would be better off without mankind .
Chris is affected by the experience of visiting the submerged islands, observing the pristine environment and realizing the extent of human destruction . She suggests Skinner wanted them to realize this by making them visit these places .
Cliffhangers and Rising Tension
“Almost Blue” sets the stage for future conflicts and revelations . By the end of the episode, Chris is kidnapped . Eleina has uncovered Hersch’s secret . A mysterious connection between Axel and Skinner is hinted at . These cliffhangers create tension and anticipation for the remaining episodes.
Review and Reception
Some critics have described Episode 7 as slow-paced and less action-packed than previous episodes . The episode focuses on character development and philosophical themes rather than spectacle . However, others see it as a turning point in the story, building excitement for what’s to come . The episode has been praised for its gorgeous visuals, introspective character moments, and thought-provoking themes .
Key Takeaways from “Almost Blue”
- Skinner’s Connection to Global Warming: The submerged islands highlight Skinner’s awareness of climate change and its impact on the world .
- Hersch’s Secret Past: Eleina’s discovery of Hersch’s involvement with Skinner adds complexity to her character and raises questions about her true motives .
- Axel’s Importance: Hersch’s statement that Axel is the key to finding Skinner suggests he has a unique role to play in the unfolding events .
- Philosophical Themes: The episode explores themes of humanity’s impact on the environment, the nature of pain, and the potential for redemption .
Overall, “Almost Blue” is a pivotal episode of Lazarus that provides character development, philosophical insights, and intriguing mysteries . While some viewers may find the pacing slow, the episode lays the groundwork for a thrilling conclusion to the season .
