Fringe Reviews

"Enemy of My Enemy" Review

To get right to the point, “Enemy of My Enemy” was a great episode of Fringe that helps narrow the focus of Season 4. Don’t get me wrong: things are as complicated as ever, but the return of David Robert Jones provided an immediacy and urgency to the episode that worked quite well.

One of the main reasons for Season 4’s slow start involves the number of standalone episodes; that, and the strange “reset” that inevitably led to some confusion. The problem with many of the standalone episodes is the issue of pacing. Yet, here’s an episode that nails pacing, as the threat was introduced at the opening of “Enemy of My Enemy” and rarely let up.

fringe, enemy of my enemy, peter, machine gun, bishop

The emergence of both universes working together helped to sustain the urgency and kept things moving at a fast pace. It’s nice to see the large ensemble cast used so effectively (even if it requires each actor to pay two roles; the payoff is worth it). Fortunately, the episode is also filmed and edited well, so it’s never too difficult or overwhelming to differentiate the characters (although, there were a few times the two Lincoln Lees confused me).

“Enemy of my Enemy” also fleshes out the conspiracy that’s been hinted at
last week. Alternate Broyles is certainly working with Jones, and even Walternate - a character often pulling strings - seems to be in the dark. The ultimate reveal, of course, is Nina Sharp’s involvement. Not only is Nina working with Jones, but she’s also using her power to perform an ambiguous experiment on Olivia. It’ll be interesting to see what the writers have planned in the weeks ahead.

fringe, enemy of my enemy, walter, broyles, reflection, walternate

Thankfully, the Fringe writers knew when to slow down and allow for character moments to heighten the action-packed plot. Orla Brady once again gives a perfect role as Peter’s mother. Her reunion with Walter was especially poignant and effective. It was also an interesting little reveal that the events of “White Tulip” never transpired in this universe (if this is, in fact, another universe). Likewise, Walter’s dialogue with Peter was a nice little moment at the end.

Overall, “Enemy of My Enemy” is a really strong episode of Fringe that gives the series another underlying threat. The motivations and plans of David Robert Jones have yet to be revealed, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. He’s such an awesome villain.

I’m eagerly looking forward to next week. Let’s hope the show keeps it going at this pace.

-MP

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