IR TV Review: STAR CITY - EPISODE 3 [Apple TV-S5]
After the last episode of "Star City" which had a context of bittersweet because of the aspect of a life possibly derailed, the build up the lunar base continues in Episode 3 with the party pushing their idea but the reality moving against it. It is a humanistic play because as much as the KGB tries to nip a certain bug before it gets out of control with their spying, it is that exact action that motivates it. The thematics are not as grand as the first two episodes but what is interesting is how one character both seems like a chump and yet isn't. A certain arrogance doesn't overcome the problem or even really exacerbate it. It simply makes the person respond to his own shortcomings and maybe lean into the ignorance of it all. The issue at the end of the episode speaks to inflection point of this alternate timeline but also shows what held it back. The influence of the West is of course prevalent.
But it is a different relationship that starts to define things. Now whether it is done out of spite or actual intent is to be seen. But the one thing that comes into play are details, even those who one thinks, at least internally, believe they are on the right side of history. The use of a sound design glitch provides actually the most mystery in the episode but also shows how control can backfire. On the same point, a scuffle in a stairwell that pings of jealousy versus actual scientific talent speaks volumes. A separate scientific point is also a continued conflicting point of advancement (though I am not sure it played out on the other side in "For All Mankind"). The lead from the past few episodes is relegated to the background supposedly to place her under control, though that might change. The performers know how this works. One scene in Russian mission control as the lady in question gives her now husband advice and then smiles for the camera while The Chief Designer scowls shows the divide that grows within the program. Yet there is also success (with a few tragedies thrown in). But that is the reality of space travel, either yesterday, today or tomorrow. B
By Tim Wassberg
