Wayward Pines - The Friendliest Place on Earth - Advance Preview : "Watchful Eyes"

Previously on Wayward Pines, Ben and Amy were rudely interrupted by a largely dangerous (albeit, small) bomb, blood comes splattering along the pavements and it seems, life just got a whole lot darker. However, interestingly, in the eight episode of this fascinatingly eerie series, things become brutal inside the minds that gaze down upon the Pines, for everyone has watchful eyes for those closest to them when things come shattering down. Elsewhere, the episode begins to move the plot in opposite directions, for people must make a stand against those who are a little too nice.

Obviously, as this is an advance preview, there won't be any spoilers here, and as you've probably already noticed, I'll do a whole lot of teasing for the upcoming episode of Wayward Pines on FOX. The eighth episode, could be suggested as a slower paced episode in comparison to the blazing bombs that occurred last episode, however, that doesn't mean things don't happen, things certainly do happen, and the conclusion of the episode will leave you pondering whether the episode title The Friendliest Place on Earth, is in fact a true statement anymore. That's right folks, the energy continues to be high as we throttle towards the penultimate episode of M. Night Shyamalan's thrilling sci-fi expedition.

First things first, we've got a few battered people after the accidental incident last episode, and gladly, the consequences of those continue to hold a grudge upon the Hawke family. Especially Ben, within this episode, he struggles with the causes of the explosion, especially due to his previous issues with Ethan. As I previously mentioned, this is more of a slow paced episode, but I think this was needed for the show because we're rolling towards a gigantic conclusion, so this 'family talk', for me, allows the show to calm it's jabbering need for tension and take a step back, giving us the family bonding that is truly needed to make sure the audience fully care for the characters that are currently in jeopardy of darkness.

Whilst this time may be needed, do not fret, Wayward Pines also does give us some juicy mystery whilst we flutter between the characters. However, something we haven't delved deep into, is the battling fear within the grounds above Wayward Pines. Whilst this may seem a little random in it's introduction, it is a compelling and thought-provoking turn for the show, allowing us to see inside the grounds and further imply the deep paranoia (and sometimes muddling between that, evil) that lurks in David Pilcher's mind, for he, is the cause of death, and the cause of life. Now, honestly, I'd never think I'd say this, but Nurse Pam is beginning to become my favourite character - don't worry, you'll see why - she's pretty bad-ass. Although they may not be the most emotionally engaging, prepare for some somber, sadistic and secretive scenes for some of the most unusual of characters (mainly because you haven't met them yet), I'd suggest they were effective, but not for the reasons you may suggest.

The rebel group continue to flourish in the episode, however, in ways you may not expect. The past lightens the on-goings of the present, and the parallels begin to merge into a very emotional set of ideas. For me, these were the highlight of the episode, due to their real damaging and saddening features. Whilst the episode continues to have action and thrills, for me, the slower, emotional approach, has a whole lot more satisfaction and fascination.

The Friendliest Place on Earth may not be the best Wayward Pines episode, or the most thrilling, but it does have some really key passionate scenes that reminds us of the situation these characters are in, for, it really is a grim world they live in. Would you like to be in Wayward Pines? I sure hope the answer is no.

'The Friendliest Place on Earth' Teaser Quotes:

'I wanna talk to someone in charge, now!'
'You should be careful not to spread rumors'
'The choices one makes can lead to consequences we don't intend'
'They just don't understand what became of their lives.'
'You've got an agenda, and I want to know what it is.'
'You need to punish someone, is that it? Punish me.'

Make sure to catch the episode on FOX at 9PM ET/PT on July 9th.

Excited for the next episode of Wayward Pines? Think you can guess who gave these comments? Let me know in the comments below!

About the Author - Owen Bush

Owen likes to regard himself as a reviewer, photographer, graphical designer and obssessor over a large range of TV shows. He also takes large interest in acting and drama - so if you see him in a TV show in 2050, let him know. In The Flesh will always be dear to his heart.

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