User Reviews

N episode six, the tension continues to escalate as Jack Bauer inches closer to uncovering the full extent of the terrorists' plans. The episode opens with Bauer following a critical lead that takes him into dangerous territory. The action is relentless, with Bauer's tactical acumen and quick thinking on full display. The direction is sharp, with expertly choreographed action scenes and a real-time format that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The tension is palpable as Bauer faces increasing risks in his pursuit of justice.

At CTU, the team works tirelessly to support Bauer's mission, facing their own set of challenges and obstacles. The interactions between the characters reveal the complexities of their relationships and the high-pressure environment in which they operate. The episode delves into the personal and professional dynamics within CTU, adding depth to the narrative and providing a well-rounded portrayal of the team's efforts. The direction effectively balances action with character development, creating a compelling and engaging storyline.

President Palmer's storyline also takes a significant turn as he confronts the political and ethical implications of the nuclear threat. His leadership is put to the test as he navigates the delicate balance between national security and civil liberties. Palmer's interactions with his advisors and family reveal the personal and political ramifications of his decisions, adding depth and complexity to his character. The subplot provides a compelling counterpoint to Bauer's action-driven narrative, exploring the broader implications of the crisis.

The first season of 24 introduced two manipulative women whose equal has not been seen in any movie or show ever since: Jack's colleague Nina Myers (Sarah Clarke), actually a mole working for the Drazen family, and David Palmer's wife Sherry (Penny Johnson), whom he left at the end of the season because of her political scheming. With this episode, they both return to the series in a positively intriguing way.

Okay, so Nina was brought back two hours ago, but this is her real moment in the spotlight, as the interrogation finally gets underway: with the President willing to grant her a pardon, she feels confident enough to toy with the CTU's expectations and be as elusive as possible regarding the nuke's location. Things take a different turn, however, when Jack asks to be left alone with her: after less than a minute she has a gun pointed at her head. Mason protests, only to realize Jack has a plan: if Nina thinks he'd rather avenge his wife's death than save Los Angeles, she loses her strategic advantage. In the same time-frame, Palmer's staff has to deal with a tragic accident, while the President himself receives an unexpected visit from Sherry, who claims to have proof of a conspiracy within the administration. Is it true, or is she just aiming to regain her ex-husband's trust?

In pure 24 style, that question remains unanswered for the moment, allowing Johnson (now a series regular) to shine in a rare mix of ambiguity, (lethal) charm and faultless wordplay - her character may not be trustworthy, but it's impossible to avert the eyes from her. Clarke is equally brilliant: a pure femme fatale in the first half of the episode, she reveals Nina's more fragile side once Bauer starts having it his way, and the sight of her squaring off with Sutherland again is a delight. Who said there are no meaty parts for women in the thriller genre?

Jack takes over the interrogation of Nina who is promising but totally untrustworthy. It's interesting how masculine she is beginning to look. Other plot elements involve Kim's continuing efforts to get her little charge out of Los Angeles. That crazy father is about as psychotic as is possible. Finally, there is the high powered wedding. I have to say that the way things end just doesn't work for me. See if you agree.