Episode 7 of Pachinko's second season, Chapter 15, deepens the emotional intricacies of this sprawling family saga. As the penultimate episode, the tension feels palpable, weaving together multiple timelines with incredible care, much like the previous episodes. This episode continues to explore the heart of the show—the scars of colonialism, identity, and belonging—but with an increased focus on personal sacrifice and resilience.
The story feels intimate yet grand, keeping the emotional weight grounded even as it tackles historical events. Sunja, as always, remains the bedrock of the series. This episode brilliantly juxtaposes her younger and older selves, showing us the ripple effects of her decisions across generations. We see her as a young woman continuing to bear the weight of family survival, contrasted with the older Sunja, whose reflections on sacrifice and choices only become more heart-wrenching as time goes on.
One of the highlights of the episode is how Pachinko manages to make these enormous historical and emotional themes feel deeply personal. It’s a complex interplay of subtle performances and rich storytelling. Sunja’s journey is no longer just about survival but understanding the legacy she's left behind. She confronts her past, and it's through this process that we see the show's theme of redemption come full circle. Her struggles mirror those of Solomon, who continues to wrestle with his identity, trapped between familial duty and his desire for individual success. Solomon’s storyline, especially in this episode, feels increasingly tragic as his moral compass shifts to ensure financial gain at the expense of his relationships.
The pacing of this episode feels deliberate and contemplative. It’s not action-packed, but Pachinko has never been about fast-paced storytelling. Instead, the episode leans into emotional depth, with every interaction carrying weight. As characters across different timelines make difficult choices, we get a clearer understanding of how generational trauma is passed down. The intergenerational storylines converge beautifully, highlighting how historical forces shaped not just Sunja's life, but also the lives of her children and grandchildren.
Yet, the show doesn’t shy away from its darker elements. While there's beauty in the resilience of the characters, this episode also touches on the devastating consequences of betrayal and ambition. Solomon’s arc takes a particularly grim turn, as his desperation to succeed leads him to make morally questionable decisions. The portrayal of his internal conflict feels raw and real, adding layers of complexity to his character, which has sometimes felt disconnected from the heart of the narrative.
Visually, the episode continues Pachinko’s high standard of cinematography. Each scene is carefully constructed to reflect the emotional state of the characters. The contrasting landscapes of Korea and Japan, the shifting timelines, and the use of light all help amplify the emotional weight of the narrative. Even the quieter moments are loaded with meaning, creating a cinematic experience that feels almost like poetry in motion.
Despite the episode's strengths, there are moments where the emotional heaviness feels overwhelming. Pachinko thrives on its ability to balance hope and despair, but Episode 7 leans heavily towards the latter, which may feel a bit too oppressive for some viewers. The stakes feel higher, but there’s also a sense of looming dread that might leave you emotionally drained. Additionally, some secondary characters, like Mozasu, still feel underdeveloped, which is a shame given the rich potential of his storyline. These moments slightly disrupt the narrative flow but don’t take away from the overall impact.
In conclusion, Episode 7 of Pachinko season 2 is a carefully crafted exploration of trauma, identity, and redemption. The episode carries a somber tone, but its emotional depth makes it one of the most impactful episodes of the season. With its signature slow-burn approach, Pachinko continues to unravel the complexities of its characters while never losing sight of the larger historical context. It sets the stage for what promises to be an emotionally charged season finale, leaving us eager to see how these stories will come together in the end.
This episode is another reminder of why Pachinko stands out as one of the most poignant and visually stunning series on television today.
Final Score- [8.5/10]