In "The Changeling" Season 1: Episode 5, titled "This Woman's Work," the narrative shifts its focus to provide a deeper understanding of the mysterious Wise Ones and the inner turmoil of Emma Valentine. This episode is a pivotal turning point that delves into the psyche of the characters, revealing the complexities of motherhood, the supernatural, and the struggle for identity.
The episode begins with a flashback into Emma's journey before her marriage to Apollo, offering a glimpse into her encounter with a witch near the waterfalls and her subsequent actions that led her to the Wise Ones. The Wise Ones are revealed to be a community of women who have, at some point in their lives, taken the drastic step of killing a changeling that replaced their child. Cal, the enigmatic leader, explains to Apollo that Emma had been living among them as a librarian.
"This Woman's Work" leans heavily into the horror and fantasy elements, confirming that Baby Brian was indeed a terrifying changeling. The episode touches on the theme of postpartum depression and the societal dismissal of women's stories, particularly in times of trauma. It's a stark reminder of how quickly society can brush off a woman's trauma, as seen in Apollo's initial disbelief in Emma's experiences.
The island, dubbed "Estrogen Island" by Apollo, serves as a refuge for these women and their families, minus the men. Cal describes it as one of the rare places where people actually believe women, highlighting the importance of unity and support among women in a patriarchal society.
The episode culminates in a startling revelation about William Wheeler. As Apollo awaits Gretta's arrival to understand the truth about her daughter's fate, he comes face-to-face with his true enemy. William, who had been accusing his wife Gretta of murdering their daughter Agnes, is revealed to be Kinder Garten, the troll behind the disturbing messages on Brian's tribute page. This chilling transformation adds a new layer of horror to the story.
While the pacing of "This Woman's Work" remains slow, it successfully provides context for Emma's story and peels back layers to unveil more questions. The nonlinear storytelling proves to be a boon, offering a tender ode to women and their tenacity in the face of adversity. Clark Backo delivers an emotionally charged performance, digging deep into Emma's despair and pain. LaKeith Stanfield, as Apollo, takes a more understated approach, masterfully portraying a man burdened by the weight of his new reality. The episode is visually pleasing, with the camera work in the Brazil scenes being particularly noteworthy.
In conclusion, "The Changeling" Season 1: Episode 5, "This Woman's Work," is a compelling chapter that deftly blends genres to weave a dark fairytale of intergenerational trauma, postpartum depression, and the lengths we go for the truth. As the series progresses, it continues to raise as many questions as it answers, leaving viewers eager for the final episodes to unravel the enigma that is the Changeling.