When I wrote my review for
Episode 1 of Humans - back when I was an amateur at reviewing in general (what can I say, I still am really) - I asked the question
"What is Human?", only to then muddle off into a mission to explore every aspect of the bricks that made up the show, now those bricks have been built up (and knocked down to be replaced with better ones) several times, I can finally (
sort of) answer that question. For the finale of Humans brings together all aspects of life, devoted in its necessity to convey more than the norm, and as a series, is satisfyingly honest in its execution to provide a new edge to the sci-fi genre.
I'm not entirely sure whether the villain of Hobb has been a defined part of the first series of Humans, due to the audiences bewilderment on whether he actually is, in-fact, the antagonist. However, this all seems a little more clear as we surged into the conclusion, for his devilish antics, amidst the hectic confusion regarding trust occurring, were central to the finales forthcoming grievous fate. The idea of Hobb wanting to use these inspiring creations for the aid of the corruption within humanity was one that was disastrously truthful respecting society today, and therefore, once again remind us how Humans manages to add admittance of humanities major flaws - and this, being one of them. I do hope this isn't the last we see of Hobb, for it would be a pitiful and rather weak conclusion for a character whom had potential to be a refreshingly evil villain with actual reasoning behind his ruthless attempts.
Within the abyss of chaos slithering within our central characters, Humans almost teased a wider context within humanity in general, as we saw strikes feverishly attacking the city. This was a precise and sophisticated interject away from the families of which the show focuses, but rather, how this would effect the country, the world, the species. Obviously, everyone is different, and that's a whole lot of opinions to be floating around, so these glimpses almost imply how difficult this situation would be. It's rather easy for us to sit here and imply 'Oh, we'd be for the Synths' - but if, in reality, they were taking your lives away, would you? Further implications of how beautifully cultivated and mature the show really is.
We are humanity. But humanity isn't just the species, but the species working with other species', doing good - together. And this was a prime and wonderful example, as the Hawkins family prove that they are more than the stereotypical, fragile and jealous selves they used to be, but now they are with peace with emotions, and are working together to provide ruthless results. This segment really was good, and almost shows that
Humans could've been a 'limited one-season' show, due to its almost conclusion to the vast improvement made from the pilot, to now. The way both groups worked flawlessly together, in-sync almost, to provide eachother with safety, only showed how easy it would be for species to live in harmony and how wasted opportunities like this could be. Also, Laura finally told Joe guys, I can live happy now.
Elsewhere, Leo and the Synths weren't in the finest position after their tricky slow-mo conclusion on last weeks episode, and we continued to see more emotional brutality as their emotions were played with. Fragility seeped through the groups strength as they battled the restraints forced upon them, however, Leo's saddening speech to Karen almost explored their shared sense of belonging and their group vulnerability - this was a really empowering speech, so another congratulations for the writers of Humans on the shows success (it deserves it). However, the conclusion did start to feel a little messy as the trust regarding Voss continued to balance back-and-forth, I understand the writers may have been trying to show Karen's doubt and nativity, but in the 'Tree of Life' scene, I just wanted to get to the juicy thrill of finally understanding what this thing does, rather than a sense of repetition within her characters emotional capability - only a small dig in comparison to the mass of brilliance in the episode.
Didn't I say
last week there was something wrong with Fred?! It was a nice, manipulative touch to see Hobb cleverly take the upper hand - although I still wish we would have had a little more depth with Fred's character, for all the other Synths seem nicely developed, however Fred began the journey almost similarly to how he ended it, and whilst I believe he is a 'brave and significantly strong' character, I haven't seen it enough for him being neglected by the group being as big of a deal than what it should have been.
Well, way to end on a downer. It was all going so well as the conclusion began to felt imminent and Season 2 peaking from the horizon, with Karen reunited (I ship it) with Pete, the code safely secured within Tom's memories, and the groups safe from harm, I was sure I would leave the credits with a different face than usual, one filled with smiles and 'wow that was awesome' rather than the usual 'give me the next one' - but then, of course, the happiness dispersed and I was left craving for more. Niska, the naive, yet, intelligent and interesting character, continues to surprise and intrigue me with her delightfully cryptic understanding of the world, and I am so thrilled to see where she will take us to next.
Whilst a little clunky in its execution, the finale of
Humans delivers spectacularly, with enlightening and refreshing ideas that continue to thrill and entertain all. Never short on character development, the writers keep it honest, real and subtle, never forgetting the need for character interest within the overbearing action occurring. Preparing us for the sure-to-be epic second season, Humans continues to remind me why I ever took fascination with the show, and why everyone should be watching it right now.
Side Note - Thanks so much for reading and commenting on my Humans reviews, and I'll see you in Season 2!
What did you think of the finale of Humans? Will you be watching Season 2? And what was your favourite moment so far?
Please 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.
