IR TV Review: CROSS - EPISODE 8 (“Quemar”) [Prime-S2]

The resolution of the 2nd season of Cross in many ways comes too soon. In the past 3 episodes, the narrative sort of sped up to make sure it kept track of Luz's approach with Durand (Matthew Lillard) in her sights. But in doing so, it cruxed certain characters' point of view where with a 22 episode season or even a 10 episode season it would have given it more to chew on. As a result, Episode 8 feels pushed in, on all fronts, including Cross and Kayla in addition to Luz. The pressure is on from the end of previous episode but the consequence (especially for Durand) are not there, especially after what he did. It is understandable but only once in the episode when Cross is pressured does one really get a sense of what is happening. The resolution also in many ways belittles the character of Kayla. She is under the gun but was capable in certain ways of so much more. One interlude in a door way takes away any empathy.

She doesn't have to see things the same as Cross and she does feel put "under the thumb" in certain ways but that doesn't dictate or necessitate the vitrol or effect of what happens. The same can be said of the idea of Donnie's importance and how he was treated. The Luz situation, even as it plays out,. has its own mystery in a good way though the ultimate intent is not as breakneck or heartbreaking as it should be. The path, all said though, is more true to life and realistic since it only takes one shift in judgment and perspective to change the outcome of a situation. "Quemar" as the episode is titled, becries a quagmire where there is no real winner and yet has justice been served...or has it been shifted to allow for another day. "Cross" as a series is interested in asking these questions. And because Aldis Hodge knows his Cross is skilled but not all powerful, he might live to fight another day. B-

By Tim Wassberg