In the fifth episode of Creature Commandos, titled "The Iron Pot," the narrative takes a deep dive into the murky waters of deception and the tragic past of Eric Frankenstein. As the Task Force M returns to Pokolistan with a new objective—to assassinate Princess Ilana—the story unfolds a complex web of betrayal, impersonation, and the dark history of one of its own.
The episode opens with General Rick Flag Sr. (Frank Grillo) and Eric Frankenstein (David Harbour) on a covert mission to discredit Circe's vision of the future by investigating Isla MacPhearson, the woman who validated it. Their investigation leads them to a shocking discovery: MacPhearson is dead, and someone has been impersonating her. The suspicion immediately falls on Circe, but the truth is far more sinister.
As Flag and Frankenstein delve deeper, they uncover the imposter's true identity: Clayface, a dangerous shapeshifter and supervillain. The revelation comes amidst a thrilling confrontation where Clayface's true form is revealed while playing Mortal Kombat, a game cameo that adds a layer of company cross-references to the episode. The fight that ensues is a testament to the series' animated fighting sequences, with Clayface's morphing abilities pushing the bar even higher.
In a poignant flashback, we witness Eric Frankenstein's survival after his first encounter with the Bride. Rescued and cared for by a Romani woman named Bogdana, Eric learns about the world beyond his monstrous exterior. However, his stay with Bogdana takes a dark turn, ending in a mercy kill that reflects Eric's tragic nature—to destroy everything he touches.
The remaining Commandos, including The Bride, Dr. Phosphorus, and Nina Mazursky, face a new challenge as they are ambushed by the Pokolistan army. The situation escalates when Flag, in a desperate move, warns the Princess of the assassination plot, inadvertently setting the army against the Commandos. The ensuing chaos sees Phosphorus and The Bride fighting their way out, leaving the Commandos scattered and on the run.
"The Iron Pot" is an episode that weaves a intricate narrative of past and present, deception and truth. It showcases the tragic depth of Frankenstein's character, the ruthless cunning of Clayface, and the moral complexities faced by the Creature Commandos. As the team is split and hunted, the stage is set for a thrilling continuation of their story, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats for the next chapter in this monstrous tale.