As we move into the heart of Pachinko's second season, episode 5 (titled "Chapter 13") takes a significant turn, threading together the past and present with poignant grace. This episode isn't just about the characters surviving a turbulent war; it's also about personal battles, simmering tensions, and the weight of legacy bearing down on future generations.
The episode splits its time between the wartime struggles of Sunja and her family in Osaka and Solomon's present-day challenges in Tokyo. On one hand, Sunja's resilience is again on full display as her family's world begins to crumble under the pressures of war. With food shortages worsening, the stakes have never been higher for her and Isak. The episode beautifully captures the era's harrowing conditions through carefully crafted visuals, emphasizing the suffocating atmosphere of impending catastrophe. But amidst the chaos, the familial bond provides a lifeline, grounding the narrative in a sense of hope amid the bleakness.
Solomon, meanwhile, continues to wrestle with the burdens of his heritage and ambition. Just when he believes his business venture is about to pay off, a mysterious figure throws a wrench in his carefully laid plans. This unexpected twist not only serves as a key plot point but also showcases Solomon's vulnerability, making him more relatable as a character. He may have modern-day privileges and opportunities, but his struggles echo those of his ancestors, creating a compelling parallel that enriches the show's generational theme.
The pacing in this episode is deliberate, occasionally slow, but never sluggish. It allows the narrative to breathe, giving space for emotional nuances and subtle character development. Yet, this might frustrate viewers looking for faster-moving plotlines, especially since some scenes feel like they're marinating in mood rather than pushing the story forward.
One of the strengths of Pachinko is its ability to balance personal drama with broader historical events. Episode 5 leans into this balance with remarkable finesse. World War II serves as more than a backdrop; it amplifies the stakes for Sunja's family, heightening every decision they make. The meticulous set design and costume work deserves a special mention, transporting viewers into mid-century Japan with such authenticity that you can almost feel the weight of history pressing down on the characters.
The cinematography in this episode, as expected, remains breathtaking. Wide shots of bombed-out streets juxtaposed with close-ups of Sunja's face perfectly encapsulate the emotional intensity of the episode. Director Justin Chon continues to use light and shadows to emphasize contrasts — both literal and figurative — between the dark, war-ravaged past and the neon-lit modernity of Solomon's world.
However, while the episode shines in many areas, there are moments where the script feels slightly contrived. Solomon's storyline, in particular, occasionally dips into predictable territory, with corporate intrigue that doesn’t feel as sharp as the rest of the show’s narrative threads. This is where the show dips into its shortcomings: it occasionally overplays the corporate drama in Solomon’s life, making some of his challenges feel less consequential compared to the life-and-death stakes of Sunja’s past. That being said, even at its weakest, Pachinko remains compelling, because at its core, the show is about the emotional journeys of its characters, and that remains strong throughout.
The acting continues to be stellar. Kim Min-ha as young Sunja delivers a nuanced performance that captures both strength and vulnerability. Her chemistry with Steve Sanghyun Noh, who plays Isak, continues to be a highlight, anchoring the emotional core of the episode. Lee Min-ho’s portrayal of Hansu also demands attention, as his character becomes more complex, teetering between ruthless ambition and moments of unexpected tenderness. And Solomon, played by Jin Ha, captures the frustrations and ambitions of a man stuck between worlds — culturally, financially, and emotionally.
In terms of thematic exploration, Pachinko excels in diving deep into how historical trauma reverberates through generations. The show doesn't shy away from the ugly parts of history, nor does it idealize the survival stories of immigrant families. Instead, it paints a full, complex picture of resilience, sacrifice, and the price of survival. Episode 5 drives this home as the characters grapple with their choices, shaped by a world at war and a future that demands adaptation.
To sum up, episode 5 of Pachinko season 2 continues the show's excellent balance of history and intimate storytelling, deepening the stakes for its characters as World War II hits home. While Solomon’s storyline occasionally dips into familiar territory, the episode as a whole succeeds in exploring the enduring impact of family and history on personal identity. The visuals and performances are top-notch, and the emotional beats hit hard, leaving us eager for what's to come.
Final Score- [8.5/10]