As the curtains draw close on SAS Rogue Heroes Season 2, Episode 6 and the finale, we are taken on a heart-pounding journey that encapsulates the very essence of war, bravery, and the indomitable spirit of the SAS soldiers. Set against the backdrop of Forte Di Gavi in Italy and the Highlands of Scotland, this finale sees the characters at their most vulnerable and most heroic, as they face the impending invasion of France and the challenges it brings.
The episode begins with a sense of urgency as trucks approach Forte Di Gavi, and David Stirling (Connor Swindells) remains calm amidst the chaos of men trying to escape. Cram (Sandy Batchelor) informs him of the Germans on the hill and the news that the SAS has helped topple the Italian government, suggesting a return home for the soldiers. The tension is palpable as German soldiers shoot at fleeing prisoners, and Stirling and Cram scramble to find a way to escape, with Stirling suggesting they hide until their forces arrive.
Meanwhile, on a ship, Paddy Mayne (Jack O’Connell) addresses his men about their itinerary, only to be surprised by the return of John Tonkin (Jack Barton), who humorously suggests that their survival means someone up there likes them, and they are unstoppable. This moment of levity is short-lived as the reality of their situation sets in, and the men must come to terms with the fact that they are home, but the war is far from over.
The personal struggles of the characters are laid bare as Paddy leaves a message for his child, expressing his unfitness for human company, and Reg Seekings (Theo Barklem-Biggs) is greeted outside, perhaps by family or loved ones, as the men return to their homes. The emotional depth of these scenes is a stark contrast to the adrenaline-fueled action that has defined much of the season.
In a poignant scene, Paddy goes fishing with Eoin McGonigal (Donal Finn), who isn't actually there, highlighting Paddy's inner turmoil and the ghosts of his past that haunt him. Their conversation about being in the desert together and Paddy's uncertainty about forgiving himself for his actions add a layer of complexity to his character.
The political and strategic aspects of the war are also explored as Dudley Wrangel Clarke (Dominic West) and Eve Mansour (Sofia Boutella) share a drink, discussing the aftermath of killing and the lack of regret that follows. This conversation is a chilling reminder of the moral complexities faced by those involved in war.
As the episode progresses, we see the characters preparing for the invasion of France, with Paddy and his men training in the Highlands of Scotland, and David Stirling keeping a watchful eye on a lone German soldier from above. The tension builds as David attempts to escape, only to be caught and assaulted, with the Germans telling him they have a special place designed for men like him.
The finale culminates in a series of high-stakes decisions and actions, as William Stirling (Gwilym Lee) resigns, Eve is deployed as a liaison between the British and French SAS, and Paddy confronts Dudley about the future of the SAS and their involvement in the invasion. The episode ends on a note of camaraderie and unity as Paddy's men arrive, leading to a fight with US Marines, and Paddy plays a record on a plane, uniting the men in song before they jump out, ready to face the unknown.
In conclusion, the sixth episode and finale of SAS Rogue Heroes Season 2 is a powerful and emotional culmination of the series. It showcases the bravery, sacrifice, and human cost of war, while also highlighting the bonds between the soldiers and the personal struggles they face. This finale is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the unwavering determination of the SAS in the face of overwhelming odds.