Another episode of True Lies has arrived and another global threat needs to be taken care of. Arms dealers are trying to instigate a war between Albania and Serbia and the team at Omega Sector need to stop them before things escalate. It’s a tall order so they have to enlist the services of the freelance assassin, the Wolf, to help.
This week’s True Lies doesn’t take itself too seriously and the series is better for it. The comparisons of Helen back in high school as the newest recruit make for some ridiculous fun. The only free seat in the lunch room is next to eccentric social outcast, who happens to be the Wolf. Their relationship feels so sweet, innocent, and genuine much like you’d find in a teen/young adult story. But they also form a support group that serves as a positive influence on each other. Helen finds someone to help with her training while Nathan (the Wolf) learns to empathize with people and not be so awkward.
Speaking of the Wolf, Matthew Lillard shines as the guest star. He strikes that perfect balance of dorky charm while still reminding you he is a cold-blooded killer. He provides a unique perspective on how a troubled mind thinks and is more than capable out in the field. The actor might be too good for the high school motif that you forget Lillard is middle aged. The Wolf’s quirky demeanor also plays as a nice foil to Harry who is more by the books and, in this episode, is more formal.
True Lies doesn’t do any favors for its other lead, Harry. If we’re back in the cafeteria and Helen and Nathan are the nerds pushed to the periphery, Harry is the bully giving them a hard time. He isn’t the openly supportive husband his wife needs in her hard times, and spends most of his energy harassing the Wolf and sewing distrust in the hired operative.
You usually want people to like the protagonist but here Harry comes off as closeminded and petty. Though he eventually learns to work with his rival, the road to get there isn’t that flattering. Also, the problems with Helen wouldn’t really be an issue if he was as much of a loving husband as we are lead to believe.
“Rival Companions” is the best episode so far in the young season with light hearted quasi-teen hijinks anchored by a strong performance from its guest star.
New episodes of True Lies air Wednesdays on CBS.
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