The sixth episode of season 3, entitled "Dog Day," saw the crew finally rescuing Slattery and the captured officers. Unfortunately, their success comes at a cost, as Cruz loses his life to the Vampirates. This development in the captured crew members plot did wonders in showcasing Travis Van Winkle's abilities as an actor. When I say he brought the emotion in this episode, I mean it. The look on his face as he sits by a dying Cruz is enough to make you want to binge on a tub of Ben & Jerry's, then curl up into the fetal position. Bravo, Mr. Van Winkle, on your best performance as Danny Green to date.
The next episode, called "In The Dark," follows the crew as they attempt to make their way back to America, with Takehaya and his sick, pregnant wife in tow. Their Nathan James team runs into a bit of a problem, though, as they discover they are being tailed by Chinese ships. With his knowledge of the waters the crew is trying to navigate, Takehaya offers his assistance in helping the crew evade their enemy. The writers' decision to cast Takehaya in the role of savior in this episode highlights the thing I've loved most about this season. In contrast to previous years, the enemies of season 3 really flip flop between dark and light. You never really know where anybody's allegiances lie. That certainly makes for rich storytelling.
Back in the United States, President Michener is confronted with sins of the past. When it is revealed to the media that he brought his infected son into a safe zone during the initial outbreak, thus killing everyone around them, Michener commits suicide. While I am glad the writers utilized this piece of Michener's past, which was first brought up in season 2, I am a little disappointed that they chose to kill off the president. I would have liked to see Michener stand his ground despite what the press was saying about him. Granted, having the character commit suicide will surely add all sorts of new drama, but I feel that this plot point represents a rich opportunity for character development.
"Dog Day" Episode Score: 10 Anchors Out of 10
"In The Dark" Episode Score: 9 Anchors Out of 10
