In the fourth episode of Earth Abides, titled "Predators," the narrative continues to unfold in a world ravaged by an apocalyptic event, now in its 17th year. The episode opens with the aftermath of Ish's harrowing encounter with a mountain lion, an event that nearly claimed his life. Despite the severity of his injuries, Molly and the community manage to stabilize him, raising questions about the mountain lion's disappearance and Ish's miraculous survival.
The episode quickly shifts gears, with Emma embarking on a personal quest to hunt down the mountain lion, a decision that seems impulsive and out of character. This act of vengeance, devoid of consequence, highlights the show's tendency to prioritize drama over logical storytelling. The sudden time jump to year 17 exacerbates this issue, bypassing the opportunity to explore Ish's recovery and the impact on Molly's self-perception as a non-medical practitioner.
The inconsistency in Ish's appearance, particularly the presence and subsequent disappearance of his wig, adds a layer of absurdity to an already strained narrative. Meanwhile, Heather and Raif's decision to venture into the unknown is a plot device that seems to serve little purpose other than to introduce Charlie and his family.
The arrival of Charlie and his convoy marks a significant shift in the power dynamics within Ish's community. Charlie, aware of the water scarcity, offers a deal to Ish: water in exchange for shelter. This agreement, though beneficial, sows the seeds of doubt and mistrust, as Ish perceives Charlie's charisma and strength as a threat to his leadership.
As the water crisis intensifies, Charlie's drilling rig becomes the focal point of the community's survival. His influence grows, and Ish's paranoia mounts, culminating in a confrontation where Charlie's philosophy of survival of the fittest is revealed. This ideology clashes with Ish's values, creating a rift within the community.
Ish's ego is bruised by Charlie's presence, and his insecurity manifests in hostility and irrational decisions. His comment about scars being a mark of God's favor is particularly insensitive, considering Evie's scars are a reminder of her traumatic past. The tension between Ish and Charlie reaches a boiling point, with Ish's family and community caught in the crossfire.
Charlie's villainy is further emphasized in a scene with Jean, where he tempts her with nostalgia and vices, a transparent attempt to undermine Ish's authority. The episode culminates in the discovery of water, a moment that should be celebrated, but is overshadowed by Charlie's quiet declaration of his intentions to stay, leaving Ish aghast and the community oblivious to the impending danger.
"Predators" is a testament to the show's struggle with coherent storytelling and character development. The episode is riddled with plot holes and inconsistencies, from the arbitrary time jumps to the lack of consequences for character actions. The introduction of Charlie and his family, while potentially intriguing, is marred by heavy-handed writing and a lack of subtlety in portraying his villainy. As the community celebrates their newfound access to water, the stage is set for a power struggle that will undoubtedly define the future of Ish's family and their survival in this post-apocalyptic world.