In the latest episode of “Slow Horses,” titled “Missiles,” the agents at Slough House continue to navigate their precarious balance of incompetence and surprising competence, showcasing the unpredictable nature of their work. With a rating of four stars, this episode stands out as one of the most engaging of the season. As the narrative unfolds, the agents grapple with a catastrophic misfortune that leaves the audience questioning how they will emerge from their blunders.
The episode begins where the previous one left off, with Roddy still in the clutches of his Park interrogators. They are desperately trying to track down his “girlfriend” Tara. An emotional phone message from her gives MI5 a clue, and Flyte, playing good cop, manipulates Roddy in an attempt to draw Tara out. Roddy, unwavering in his misguided confidence, inadvertently leads the agency straight to her.
Meanwhile, Whelan, working in contrast to Roddy, attempts to blackmail the Gimballs, adding another layer to the chaotic proceedings at Slough House. Both characters find themselves grasping at straws in a game of counterespionage, highlighting their lack of experience in navigating the dangerous waters of political maneuvering.
The pressure escalates with the backdrop of a looming political assassination tied to the London mayoral election. As tensions rise between candidates Mayor Jaffrey and Dennis Gimball, the Slough agents split up to cover potentially vulnerable points during public speeches. While Catherine and Shirley successfully thwart an assassination attempt on Jaffrey, the comedic tragedy unfolds when Gimball meets his unfortunate fate due to a freak accident involving a falling paint can, an incident that illustrates the unpredictable mishaps characteristic of the Slough House team.
Humor permeates the chaos, with moments of levity scattered throughout the episode. Roddy’s quirky pop culture references and the amusing dynamics between characters like Lamb and River provide comedic relief amidst the tension. The show cleverly portrays the fine line between success and disaster, serving as a reminder that beneath their apparent ineptitude, these agents can sometimes make a difference—albeit in the most unexpected and chaotic ways.
Overall, “Missiles” reflects the series’ charm, blending humor and suspense while maintaining a keen focus on the characters’ development. As flawed as they are, the underdogs of Slough House consistently surprise viewers, making each episode a delightful and engaging experience. The unexpected twists and turns in their journey leave room for hope that, despite their blunders, they might just find a way to succeed against all odds.