In "The Changeling" Season 1: Episode 4, titled "The Wise Ones," Apollo's journey takes a dark and fantastical turn as he delves deeper into the mystery surrounding his wife Emma's disappearance and the enigmatic group known as the Wise Ones. This episode is a haunting exploration of grief, obsession, and the blurred lines between reality and nightmare.
Reeling from the loss of his family, Apollo's will to live is reignited by the peculiar William, who offers to purchase Apollo's signed copy of "To Kill a Mockingbird." The transaction, set on a dock and a random boat, is the first of many strange encounters that push the narrative into the realm of the fantastical. Patrice's discomfort with William's eerie presence is palpable, but Apollo's desperation to sell the book overshadows any concerns.
Apollo is disturbed by the social media tribute page for his late son, Brian. The page, a modern twist on the classic fairy tale, is plagued by trolls whose comments are a cruel reminder of the tragedy that unfolded in his home. The username "Kinder Garten" stands out, posting deranged messages that play off the horrors that occurred, adding a chilling layer to the story. Once on the boat, William's emotional unraveling after receiving the wrapped book leads to a rant about his estranged family. His desire to gift the book to his wife Gretta, in an attempt to be the father her own father was, is a poignant moment that humanizes William amidst the strangeness.
The episode embraces the classic quest narrative, with Apollo's journey to the island representing the departure phase of the Hero's Journey. The catalyst for this quest is the disruption caused by Emma's act and the subsequent loss, leading Apollo to embark on a reluctant adventure. Upon reaching the island, William's revelation that Gretta rejected his gift shifts the focus to Apollo's mission. The discovery of North Brother Island, once a quarantine hospital, adds a historical eerieness to the setting. The encounter with the Wise Ones, led by Cal, is a pivotal moment that reveals the depth of the mystery and the power of the group.
Cal, whose full name is Callisto, is a captivating character with the energy of a cult leader. Her performance with the "Rapunzel" puppets and the discussion on illusions and the lengths parents go to protect their children provide a deeper insight into the themes of parenthood and fear.
The episode culminates with Apollo at a crossroads, faced with an ultimatum from William. The revelation that William has been searching for the island and his connection to the Wise Ones through his own family tragedy adds a layer of complexity to his character. Apollo must decide whether to continue his quest for Emma and embrace the rest of his Hero's Journey, despite the risks.
The episode is filled with bread crumbs that hint at deeper connections and future revelations. The water theme, with Lillian's visits to the East River and the significance of water in the narrative, aligns with the idea of water as a perfect memory and the lurking unknown beneath the surface.
In conclusion, "The Changeling" Season 1: Episode 4, "The Wise Ones," is a gripping chapter in Apollo's quest for answers and revenge. The episode masterfully blends the supernatural with the psychological, taking the audience on a journey through grief, obsession, and the quest for truth. As Apollo stands at the crossroads, the stage is set for the continuation of his Hero's Journey, with the Wise Ones' role in the story becoming increasingly enigmatic and crucial.