Recap
In the third episode of The Boys' fourth season, titled "We'll Keep the Red Flag Flying Here," Homelander hosts a rally for Vought International, where he denounces Starlight and promises to protect America. He introduces Firecracker and Sister Sage as the newest members of The Seven, and hints at plans to add Ryan to the team. Meanwhile, Butcher and Kessler watch the rally from Butcher's apartment, and Kessler gives Butcher drugs that can sedate Ryan. Starlight and Hughie try to find a lawyer to help Hughie regain power of attorney over his ailing father, but they are legally out of options. Frenchie goes to the headquarters of the Shining Light organization to tell his new boyfriend, Colin, about killing his family. However, a radical Shining Light fan crashes the headquarters, demanding the release of children being trafficked in the basement. In the final scene, Homelander is unsettled by Ryan's visit to Butcher. He looks in the mirror and seems to be talking to different voices in his head, exposing his vulnerability. Most of these voices are critical, urging him to be a powerful symbol rather than a vulnerable person. Part of him wants to fix his relationship with Ryan, but another part accuses him of being "weak" for wanting love. Ultimately, Homelander decides to eliminate his weaknesses and chooses to "go back to where it all began."
Analysis
"We'll Keep the Red Flag Flying Here" is a pivotal episode in The Boys' fourth season. It sets up several major plot points, including Homelander's growing instability, Butcher's plan to rescue Ryan, and the return of Black Noir. The episode also explores the themes of power, corruption, and family.
Homelander's speech at the rally is a clear indication of his growing paranoia and insecurity. He is threatened by Starlight's popularity and her message of hope, and he is determined to maintain his power at all costs. His introduction of Firecracker and Sister Sage as new members of The Seven is another sign of his need for control. He is surrounding himself with people who are loyal to him and who will do his bidding, regardless of the consequences.
Butcher's plan to rescue Ryan is a risky one, but it is also a sign of his desperation. He knows that Ryan is in danger with Homelander, and he is willing to do anything to save him. The drugs that Kessler gives him are a powerful tool, but they could also have dangerous side effects.
The return of Black Noir is a surprise, and it is unclear what his role will be in the coming episodes. He is now narcoleptic, which makes him vulnerable, but he is also still a skilled killer. It is possible that he will team up with Butcher and The Boys to take down Homelander.
The themes of power, corruption, and family are all explored in this episode. Homelander's abuse of power is evident in his treatment of Starlight and Ryan. He is willing to use violence and intimidation to get what he wants, and he has no regard for the well-being of others. Vought International is also corrupt to the core, and they are willing to cover up Homelander's crimes in order to protect their profits. The Boys are a dysfunctional family, but they are also the only ones who are willing to stand up to Homelander and Vought.
Overall, "We'll Keep the Red Flag Flying Here" is a well-written and suspenseful episode that sets the stage for an explosive conclusion to The Boys' fourth season. It is a must-watch for fans of the show.
Additional Thoughts
The episode's title, "We'll Keep the Red Flag Flying Here," is a reference to a Chinese Communist Party song. This is likely a sign of Homelander's growing authoritarianism.
The episode features several Easter eggs for fans of the comics, including a reference to Black Noir's peanut allergy.
The episode's cliffhanger ending is sure to leave fans on the edge of their seats.