Apple TV+ ‘Midnight Family’ Episode 9 Review - Nearing the End

I have to admit, Episode 9 of Midnight Family stands out as one of the most gripping and emotionally charged episodes of the series so far. It delves deep into the characters' personal struggles, setting the stage for intense, life-altering decisions. Ramon, the family’s steadfast leader, faces a critical turning point as he decides to sell the family’s ambulance, the van that has been both their livelihood and a symbol of their resilience. His decision to take a stable job at the hospital leaves the family grappling with the emotional weight of their final night working together.

The episode portrays the family’s strong bond, evident as they gear up for their last shift, all fully aware of the uncertainty that lies ahead. It is not just about saying goodbye to their van but also to the life they have known for so long—rushing through the streets of Mexico City, saving lives, and navigating constant risks. This moment is filled with an air of nostalgia and bittersweet reflection as the family, despite their mixed feelings, agrees to work one last time together.

Meanwhile, the subplot involving Marigaby adds another layer of tension. Her academic future is in jeopardy as she misses her exam for the second time. This moment heightens her personal struggle between her duties as a paramedic and her aspirations beyond the family’s ambulance business. The weight of this choice reflects the sacrifices each family member faces as they try to balance their individual desires with family obligations.

The episode also focuses on Marcus and Cristina, who are at a crossroads in their relationship. They have decided to move to the United States in search of a better life, but their journey is complicated when Marcus gets into an altercation with the police. This confrontation leads to Cristina being injured and hospitalized, where she expresses her growing frustration with Marcus’s dangerous profession. Cristina's plea for him to stay with her at the hospital reveals her exhaustion with their precarious lifestyle. Her injury becomes a metaphor for the toll that their work has taken on their personal lives, particularly on their relationship.

Torn between his loyalty to his family and his commitment to Cristina, Marcus makes the difficult decision to join his family for one final rescue. This decision leads to a climactic moment as the family's van gets involved in a crash just before they can head out for their final mission. The episode ends on a heart-stopping cliffhanger, leaving viewers questioning whether the family will survive the crash.

This episode masterfully captures the emotional turmoil of a family at a pivotal moment, balancing hope and despair, duty, and personal sacrifice. The tension builds throughout, culminating in a dramatic ending that leaves viewers eagerly anticipating the next episode. The deep emotional layers, combined with the physical risks the family faces, make this episode a standout in the series. Now we shall await the final episode of this show which may answer many questions raised in Episode 9.

Final Score - [8/10]