On the previous episode of Fallout, we discovered that the Ghoul and the Vault dweller leadership aren’t the only pre-Great War survivors. While sneaking into the Lucky 38, the Ghoul encounters RobCo CEO Robert House.
“The Strip” incorporates many aspects of an engaging finale. First, there are great action sequences as Maximus fights off the Deathclaws. Although the choreography is a little clunky, it gives the scenes a fun campy feel. The battle is delightfully violent at times, and peppered with heroic moments. It keeps you guessing with a few false starts to turn the tide while the humor keeps true to the show and its people. The conclusion builds up the credibility of the good guys complete with some awesomely cinematic kill shots.
The Fallout finale also delivers moving and emotionally riveting scenes. The Ghoul’s sole purpose on the series is to find his family. Despite all season depicting a strained relationship between Cooper and his wife, the flashbacks eliminate any doubt between the couple. The eerie moment when he learns he put his trust in the wrong people further entangles him with House. More importantly, it shows his devotion to Barb and Janey with his self sacrifice. Fast forward to the present, and even though he doesn’t have his happy Hollywood ending, the actor receives a ray of hope that only strengthens his resolve. It’s bittersweet, but at least he knows he’s on the right track.
Lucy and Hank experience a more painful resolution. With their more complicated history, their family ties are more destined for tragedy. There’s no coming back from the atrocities Hank committed. The mirrored dialog after the reversal of situations reflect how much like her father the surface has made Lucy. Hank turns the table one last time, in a way, sparing his daughter from performing a traumatic act. Ella Purnell and Kyle MacLachlan play the scene so well, especially right before Hank loses his memories. A heartbreaking final affectionate caress of the cheek that turns into emptiness.
The episode also sets the stage for the future of Fallout. The show has introduced a number of different factions laying the groundwork for an epic war. Unfortunately, it doesn’t start here, but the various pieces are moved into position. Viewers were disappointed that Macaulay Culkin had such a small part considering the promotion material ahead of the season. He looks to have a larger role moving forward thanks to some developments in the Legion.
The Brotherhood of Steel is still out there and they have a new weapon they want to develop, which fans of the video game should be excited for. Then, there’s the next stop for the Ghoul’s journey. It might not have as much fanfare as the New Vegas tease last season, but the in-game mythology fits with the current narrative of a vault with even higher higher ups and a genius entity in the background.
“The Strip” is a great conclusion to the second season with fun action, emotionally powerful scenes, and intriguing set up for the future.
Watch Fallout on Prime Video.
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