Wow, what an episode! The first half of season 5 was very slow, not much really happened, but these past 5 episodes have been so good, I reminded me of the earlier seasons. Elizabeth Moss, proves yet again how good on an actress she is, and also proves herself as a director. The episodes she directed last season were good, but not to this level. Ep 10: Safe, is perfectly paced and shot. It is very well done.
I'm glad that most characters got more to do this season, like Luke and Nick. While I'm rooting more for Nick, since he's my favourite character in the show, I really liked how the show elevated Luke's character. He is no longer the same man from season 1 and 2, he's now tough and willing to do anything for his family. Amazing character development. And then there is Serena. What a journey her character has been on. Going from one of the most evil people in the show, to a very sympathetic mother.
My biggest issue with this season has been the lack of Janine and Aunt Lydia. Janine has less screen time in this season that Nick did in season 3. She was reduced to a minor part and it was felt. Janine always felt like the heart of the show. So her not being in season 5 all that much felt weird.
Overall, season 5 and this finale have been solid. Aside from the first several slow episodes, it has been thrilling and emotionally engaging. Seeing Nick do more things, and his feelings come into play was one of the biggest highlights, the development of Luke, the struggles of June, the traumatised Serena. All well written.
It's hard to believe that the next season will be the last, but since there is a new book which takes place many, many years later, I'm holding onto hope we will see these characters again after the story wraps.
10/10 episode and 9/10 season.