Moon Knight Episode 5: A Descent into the Mind and the Afterlife
Moon Knight episode 5, aptly titled "Asylum," is a game-changer, marking a stark departure from the previous episodes. The series has struggled to find its footing, grappling with a confusing plotline and humor that fell flat. But episode 5 bravely dives into a psychological thriller, confronting the core of Marc Spector’s identity in a way that feels genuinely unsettling. This exploration of Marc’s psyche is not just a departure from the series’ norm but also differs greatly from most other Marvel Cinematic Universe entries. It mirrors the profound psychological depth seen in some of WandaVision’s episodes, making "Asylum" a standout entry in the MCU landscape.
The Duat, The Underworld, and a Talking Hippopotamus
Confused and disoriented, Marc Spector finds himself in a seemingly ordinary psychiatric ward, with Dr. Harrow claiming it’s a real place called Putnam Medical Facility. The very notion of a talking hippo named Tawaret, the Egyptian goddess of protection and safe passage, adds to the sense of unreality. This is particularly jarring after the rather brutal end of the previous episode where Marc was shot. The truth is, Tawaret reveals, that they are in the Duat, the Egyptian underworld. This jarring shift in setting brings a level of psychological horror that the series has been lacking. The Duat, however, is not a traditional depiction of the afterlife; instead, it’s a reflection of Marc’s deeply troubled mind.
The Duat, for Marc and Steven, manifests as a psych ward, a testament to the power of projection and distorted perceptions in the face of death. Tawaret’s character, played with a unique blend of humor, nerves, and pity, adds another layer to the story. She acts as a guide, but with her seemingly goofy demeanor, she further plays with the audience’s perception of what constitutes “normality” in this world.
Confronting the Past, Uncovering the Truth
The episode delves deep into Marc’s childhood trauma, revealing the origins of Steven Grant, his alternate persona. The series takes a bold step in choosing the penultimate episode to unveil Marc’s origin story, giving the audience a deeper understanding of the man beneath the mask. The exploration of his past helps to unravel the mystery of his dual personalities and the role they played in coping with his traumatic past.
We see the devastating impact of Marc’s mother’s bitterness, her relentless blaming of Marc for the accidental drowning of his younger brother, Randall. This event, the weight of guilt and the rejection from his mother, serve as the catalyst for Steven’s creation. We learn that Steven was born in that moment of intense pain, as a means for Marc to cope with the unbearable anguish The scene where Steven learns of his brother’s death and realizes that his mother is gone adds a profound sense of emotional weight, emphasizing the heavy burden both personalities carry.
The Scales of Balance and the Fate of Souls
Tawaret explains that their souls are incomplete and require balancing to reach paradise. She guides them through a series of memory doorways, each one representing a pivotal moment in Marc’s life. The journey through his memories explores the complexities of Marc’s decisions, highlighting how he had been manipulated by Khonshu, the vengeful god he serves. Marc’s commitment to Khonshu’s cause comes at a cost, leading him into violent actions that leave a psychological scar. The exploration of Marc’s past lays bare the burden of his actions and the internal conflict he faces.
The episode reveals that Dr. Harrow’s sinister plan has unfolded, releasing the Ammit, a goddess who can judge and condemn souls before they commit a crime. This revelation reinforces the ethical dilemma surrounding Khonshu’s methods.
Resolution and Uncertain Future
The episode culminates in a confrontation with the unbalanced souls of the Duat. Steven steps outside his usual timid persona and engages in a fight, realizing that he too shares in Marc’s responsibility. The action sequence is both suspenseful and visually captivating, as Marc and Steven face down their fears and each other.
This climactic confrontation ultimately leads to the balancing of the scales, a representation of the confrontation and acceptance of their shared past. However, the episode ends on an ambiguous note. They are pulled out of the Duat and deposited in an unknown location. The episode’s finale leaves a lingering doubt about what lies ahead for them, setting the stage for an intriguing finale. It remains to be seen what the future holds for Marc and Steven, whether they will reunite with Layla and confront Harrow and Ammit.
Psychological Depth and The Power of Narrative
Moon Knight episode 5 is a welcome surprise. It marks a turning point for the series, demonstrating how a shift in narrative focus can drastically improve the story. The episode’s psychological depth and exploration of Marc’s psyche set a new standard for the series.
By delving into Marc’s history and showcasing the origins of Steven Grant, episode 5 finally gives the audience a framework for understanding the complex character dynamics at play. However, despite this positive shift, it’s hard to gauge where the series could potentially go moving forward with a full-fledged finale now looming. It’s hoped that the final episode will maintain this newfound level of psychological exploration, weaving the action and humor in more effectively, and delivering a powerful and satisfying conclusion.
