Lyra has been rescued by Will, and they argue about where they should go next. Both of their reasons for wanting to go to their desired locations are understandable, but which world’s needs are more imperative? However, neither one of them can go anywhere until they figure out a way to fix the Æsahættr. It’s a good thing Iorek Byrnison knows about metal work and “special metals.”
Meanwhile, another reunion is taking place, the one between Lyra’s parents: Lord Asriel Belacqua and Marissa Coulter. The scenes with these two characters are what drive this episode. This is because we learn more about their relationship: how they met, the way they “parent” Lyra, and their research about Dust. Lord Asriel trusts Mrs. Coulter more than his Council does, but the Council cannot deny that Mrs. Coulter’s motives for her actions are “understandable.” Mrs. Coulter wants to stop the Magisterium from killing Lyra due to the prophecy; Lord Asriel doesn’t believe a prophecy should divert from his life’s work.
The Magisterium continues to search for “Eve,” especially now that both her and her mother have escaped. Father MacPhail has called for “special” reinforcements in order to help the Magisterium and the Authority with tracking down and killing the child.
This episode reiterates the 3 storylines for this season: The Republic of Heaven has declared war on The Authority; 2 living beings have entered The Land of the Dead; and, the Magisterium delve more into their search to kill a child of prophecy. The performances and the interactions between Ruth Wilson and James McAvoy as Mrs. Coulter and Lord Asriel are laudable, and provide and recall critical information about the characters for the narrative.
My Rating: 9 out of 10.