Apple TV+ ‘Pachinko’ Season 2 Episode 4 Review - New Bonds and Dark Clouds

Episode 4 of Pachinko's second season, titled “Chapter 12,” delivers yet another beautifully woven narrative where hope and heartbreak dance in tandem. The series has always excelled at balancing personal relationships with the weight of historical events, and this episode is no different. It’s an episode that shifts between delicate moments of human connection and the looming specter of tragedy, maintaining the show’s consistent tone of emotional depth, all while keeping its signature sprawling scope intact.

One of the highlights of this chapter is the blossoming of new relationships. Sunja, the matriarch, finally meets a close friend of Solomon's, creating an intergenerational bridge that resonates emotionally with long-time fans. Their meeting is subtle yet layered with significance, serving as a reminder of how the choices and bonds made by one generation inevitably shape the next. These interactions are carefully constructed, creating a sense of continuity that spans decades. The poignancy of these moments, however, is balanced by the knowledge that not all relationships are built to last.

The tragedy teased throughout the episode casts a dark shadow over this blossoming warmth. Just when it seems like things might be settling, Pachinko reminds us that its world is one of constant upheaval. There is a powerful sense of tension here, a kind of emotional tug-of-war between hope and dread that keeps the audience on edge without resorting to melodrama. The writing is careful not to overplay its hand, opting instead for subtle but devastating emotional beats that hit hard when the tragedy finally comes to the forefront.

Visually, the episode is stunning as always. The cinematography continues to elevate the narrative, with each scene dripping with intentionality. The color palette in particular stands out, with the contrasts between the vibrant hues of hope-filled scenes and the muted tones of more somber moments visually reinforcing the episode's emotional dynamics. Whether it's capturing intimate character moments or sprawling landscapes, the direction is always on point, ensuring that the visuals complement the storytelling rather than distract from it.

On the acting front, the ensemble cast continues to be one of the show’s strongest assets. Youn Yuh-jung's portrayal of Sunja remains impeccable—her ability to convey so much with a single glance is nothing short of masterful. Her interactions with Solomon’s friend are understated but charged with a quiet intensity, reminding viewers of the weight carried by the past. Lee Min-ho’s performance as Hansu also continues to impress, with his character's complex emotions simmering just below the surface, especially as the episode edges towards its tragic climax.

However, where the episode falters slightly is in its pacing. At times, it feels like the slower moments could have been tightened to maintain momentum, especially in a season where each episode carries the heavy responsibility of moving multiple timelines forward. There are scenes where the emotional build-up feels dragged out, particularly in the subplot involving Solomon. While character development is necessary, it sometimes takes away from the central tension of the narrative, making the viewer momentarily lose focus on the impending tragedy.

The writing in "Chapter 12" also struggles with balancing its various timelines. While Pachinko’s time-hopping structure is one of its most unique features, there are moments in this episode where the transitions feel less fluid than they should. Certain shifts between past and present, especially in moments of high emotion, could have been executed more seamlessly. That said, these moments are few and far between, and the overall narrative coherence remains intact.

One of the episode’s strengths is how it continues to explore themes of identity, belonging, and the weight of history without becoming too didactic. The show has always been about the quiet struggles of its characters against the larger forces of history, and this episode is no exception. From Sunja's enduring resilience to Solomon's more modern-day conflicts, there is a sense of both individual and collective struggle that resonates deeply with viewers. It’s in these moments that the show shines the brightest—when it focuses on the emotional core of its characters rather than getting bogged down by the larger historical backdrop.

"Chapter 12" also leaves viewers with more questions than answers, a hallmark of Pachinko's storytelling style. The tragedy, when it strikes, is both inevitable and devastating, but the aftermath is left largely unresolved, setting the stage for the episodes to come. This open-ended approach can be frustrating for viewers craving closure, but it also mirrors the uncertainty faced by the characters themselves.

In conclusion, Episode 4 of Pachinko Season 2 is a strong entry in what continues to be one of the most emotionally resonant shows on television. While not without its flaws, the episode succeeds in deepening the audience's connection to its characters while setting up even more devastating stakes for the future. It’s a beautifully crafted hour of television that reminds us why Pachinko is one of the best historical dramas out there—its ability to make the personal feel epic, and the epic feel deeply personal.

Final Score- [8.5/10]