The Antichrist Gets Baptized: Examining the Unholy Twist in "Evil" Season 4
The ever-evolving and delightfully unsettling series Evil is currently in its fourth season, and while a final wrap-up with four bonus episodes is expected soon, the series remains as energetic, daring, and, dare we say, evil, as ever. The recent eighth episode, "How to Save a Life," tackles a question that’s long haunted horror fans: what if the Antichrist were baptized? This seemingly simple act, explored through the lens of Evil’s complex world of demonic forces, unexpected alliances, and the ever-present struggle between good and evil, ultimately leads to some truly unsettling developments.
The Antichrist, Baby Timothy, is at the center of a demonic conspiracy orchestrated by Leland, a powerful demon who, through a twist of fate, is the child’s father. Timothy, born from Kristen’s stolen egg and Leland’s demonic sperm, is a crucial piece in the dark forces’ plan to unleash chaos upon the world. However, the plan doesn’t account for the growing animosity between Leland and Sheryl, Kristen’s mother, and the lengths Sheryl is willing to go to in order to protect her granddaughters and take revenge on Leland.
Sheryl’s disillusionment with the dark side is a compelling narrative thread, highlighting the complex moral dilemmas that Evil so deftly explores. Initially drawn to the power offered by Satan’s forces, she participated in various heinous acts, including orchestrating Kristen’s husband’s disappearance. However, her growing attachment to her granddaughters and disgust at Leland’s true intentions have shaken her allegiance. "He tried to mind-control Andy into killing one of her granddaughters," the episode reveals, demonstrating the extent to which Leland’s evil will corrupt even the closest of relationships.
The episode pivots around Sheryl’s desperate attempt to subvert the demonic plot by seeking the intervention of Father David and the Church. Realizing that her life is in danger due to her betrayal of Leland, Sheryl seeks refuge in a place she never anticipated: a confessional. This unexpected alliance between the seemingly devout priest and the woman who dabbles in darkness highlights the grey areas that Evil thrives on.
The episode’s climactic scene unfolds in a church amidst a raging storm, where Sheryl, with a frantic urgency, demands a baptism for Timothy. The scene is beautifully executed, capturing the tension and dread as Sheryl pleads with a reluctant Father Ignatius. “What happens if the Antichrist is baptized?” she asks, demonstrating her desperation and highlighting her faith in the power of holy water.
The baptism itself holds a surprising impact, transforming Timothy from a demonic infant to a seemingly ordinary baby. As Sister Andrea witnesses this shift, she is left perplexed, affirming the transformative nature of the act. Sheryl’s triumphant grin as she leaves the church hints at her confidence in her plan. Despite Leland’s protestations, Sheryl’s act of defiance has disrupted the demons’ plans, potentially weakening their grip on the Antichrist.
The episode concludes with Leland’s growing apprehension as he observes Timothy’s newfound personality and realizes the effect of the baptism. He attempts to deny the reality of the situation, blaming his own perception, but the truth is clear. The demons’ carefully constructed plans, with Timothy as the centerpiece, have been thrown into disarray. By subverting their intentions, Sheryl has struck a blow against the forces of darkness, albeit a temporary one.
The episode leaves us with more questions than answers, sparking further speculation about the long-term implications of Timothy’s transformation. The red painting that the demon stockholders gather to witness remains shrouded in mystery. The implications of Timothy’s baptism, while seemingly successful, are still unknown. What will happen to Baby Timothy now? Will his new, human-like persona be lasting, or is it merely a temporary facade? Will Sheryl’s actions buy the forces of good more time, or have the demons devised a new strategy to achieve their nefarious goals?
"How to Save a Life" exemplifies Evil’s brilliance in navigating the complexities of faith, morality, and the ever-present struggle between good and evil. With a blend of horror, suspense, and social commentary, the series continues to challenge viewers to confront these difficult questions. The episode’s exploration of the Antichrist’s baptism, along with Sheryl’s bold defiance, leaves a lasting impact, leaving us to anticipate the twists and turns that Evil will undoubtedly deliver in its final episodes.
