Review: Carnival Row keeps up the momentum in Episodes 205 and 206

Carnival Row Episode 206: “Original Sins”

“Original Sins” opens with Agreus and Imogen in the custody of the socialistic Pact rebels; disregarding his suspicions of the community, Agreus agrees to give their new home a chance. When faced with indoctrination, the couple chooses to attempt an escape, but complications arise.

The story shifts back to seven years prior (as it did in season 1) to explore flashbacks from the fall of Tir na Nog. There’s plenty of battle action with Philo and Darius, plus a regretful decision by Philo and an ongoing mystery in the woods. Freed from jail, Vignette reunites with Tourmaline in the Row, but there is no peace in the Burgue.

The Agreus/Imogen storyline has moved from a racism scenario in season 1 to a totalitarianism scenario in season 2, and despite the characters being interesting, it now feels very removed from the other events in the Burgue. One expects their journey to link up with the main narrative eventually, but it’s difficult to see how they can help beyond Agreus using his wealth to purchase an army or the like.

Weirdness is the watchword for the second half of this episode, with Philo undergoing a strange psychotic break while being tortured in Bleakness Keep and Tourmaline realizing the nature of the dark path she must now tread. A quiet pause produces a wonderful scene between Vignette and Tourmaline.

While not as streamlined nor engaging an episode as “Reckoning,” “Original Sins” keeps the narrative chugging along.

Episode Grade: B

To stay up to date on everything fantasy, science fiction, and WiC, follow our all-encompassing Facebook page and sign up for our exclusive newsletter.

Get HBO, Starz, Showtime and MORE for FREE with a no-risk, 7-day free trial of Amazon Channels