WARNING: SPOILERS ahead for The Agency episode 4.
The fourth installment of the Paramount+ political thriller series The Agency showcases the bold escapades of Martian and Henry as they dig deeper into the search for the elusive Belarusian operative, Coyote. This gripping series, devised for American audiences by the Butterworth brothers (known for their work on Edge of Tomorrow and Ford v Ferrari), draws inspiration from the acclaimed French thriller series, The Bureau, created by Eric Rochant. The star-studded cast includes Michael Fassbender, Jeffrey Wright, Richard Gere, Katherine Waterston, John Magaro, Saura Lightfoot-Leon, and Jodie Turner-Smith.
While The Agency boasts a talented ensemble and a compelling source material, critics have delivered mixed feedback, reflected in a Rotten Tomatoes rating of 67% following the show’s premiere with two episodes on November 29, 2024. In the opening episodes, “The Bends”and “Wooden Duck,”we see Paul Lewis, played by Fassbender, pulled from a six-year undercover assignment to assist in the search for the missing CIA operative, Coyote. Episode three, titled “Hawk from a Handsaw,”focuses on the efforts of three operatives, known as “Felix,”to escape the dangers of Russian-occupied Ukraine. Episode four, “Quarterback Blitz,”continues to expand Martian’s storyline in London, where he and Henry attempt to engage a KGB operative named Mikhail.
New episodes of The Agency are released every Friday on Paramount+.
Understanding Martian’s “Bike” Talk with KGB Agent Mikhail
Martian Offers a High Price for Information on His “Bike,”aka Coyote
In a pivotal scene, Martian takes charge during a diplomatic meeting involving the Belarusian delegation in London. As tensions rise over derogatory comments made by U.S. Congressman Daniels about Belarus, Martian discerns Mikhail, a seemingly silent figure, to be a KGB operative. Mikhail’s connection to the situation becomes clear when Martian contrives a meeting at a nightclub to discuss a fabricated narrative surrounding the missing MiG-35 fighter jet, cleverly paralleling it to his own “missing bike,”which signifies Coyote. Martian hints at his willingness to pay a premium for information about Coyote, and Mikhail promptly expresses interest.
Henry’s Scheme Against U.S. Congressman Daniels
Henry Plays His Cards Wisely
In episode four, Henry proves that he can maneuver situations to his advantage. Collaborating clandestinely with Langley, the CIA Director, they orchestrate blackmail against Congressman Daniels, coercing him into defaming Belarus. This strategic maneuvering was intended to facilitate an official meeting with the Belarusian delegation, thereby allowing Martian to investigate Mikhail. This cunning strategy not only demonstrates Henry’s higher operational capabilities compared to Martian but also highlights his willingness to manipulate those around him for the mission’s sake.
Unpacking Osman’s “Mukhabarat” Identity
Osman: A Double Agent Like Martian
In a climactic moment near the conclusion of episode four, Osman demonstrates his capacity for violence when confronting Samia in her hotel room, revealing his “Mukhabarat”rank. Initially perceived as a confidant, Osman has deeper connections, potentially linked to Samia’s estranged husband. The term “Mukhabarat,”referring to intelligence or secret police in Arab countries, creates doubt around Osman’s true intentions regarding Samia, especially since their backstory involves a secretive meeting between Chinese and Sudanese individuals earlier in the episode.
How Danny Gains the Advantage Over Professor Reza
Danny Holds the Upper Hand with Reza
Danny embarks on her assignment in Tehran, strategically positioning herself within the Institute of Geophysics. Tasked with seducing Professor Reza to secure a coveted scholarship traditionally awarded to men, she quickly becomes aware of Reza’s motivations. Her unexpected revelation about Reza’s resemblance to her father adds an uncomfortable yet effective touch that deflects his advances. Ultimately, not securing the speaking opportunity at the Institute turns in Danny’s favor, sparing her from potential blunders that could compromise her cover.
Samia’s Revelation of Martian’s “Paul Lewis” Identity
Samia Likely Isn’t a Secret Agent Following Osman’s Attack
As a result of Osman’s aggression towards her, Samia ultimately feels compelled to divulge Martian’s alias, “Paul Lewis.”Initially seen through a lens of potential deception, Osman’s treatment reveals Samia’s vulnerability and her genuine affection for Martian. Still unbeknownst to her, the persona of Paul Lewis is a facade, suggesting Osman may soon uncover that the identity she loves is merely an illusion.
The Origin of Martian’s Hand Scar
Martian’s Heroic Act Against Ethiopian Soldiers
A flashback unveils the backstory behind Martian’s distinctive scar, depicting his brave rescue of Samia during a tumultuous protest against the Ethiopian regime. While the exact timeline of their meeting remains ambiguous, Martian’s intervention against soldiers hunting for Samia leaves a lasting impact on both of their lives. In protecting Samia, he sustains a significant injury represented by the T-shaped scar on his hand, hinting at the physical and emotional scars borne from their tumultuous past.
Osman’s Surveillance on Martian & Poppy
Osman Monitors Martian for Samia’s Husband
Osman is discreetly tracking Martian and Poppy during their leisurely outing, demonstrating his role as an observer. After losing track of Martian with relative ease, he grows wary of Martian’s true nature. Initially, Osman’s surveillance was aimed at confirming that Martian was merely a romantic interest for Samia, and he could report back to her husband. However, he soon realizes that Martian poses a greater threat than he initially perceived.
What Caused Martian’s Facial Injuries?
One of the most pressing mysteries in episode four is the nature of Martian’s facial injuries. Both the beginning and end of the episode depict his interrogation, likely by a British agent affiliated with MI5 or MI6. During this questioning, he attempts to piece together details about a clandestine meeting involving Sudanese and Chinese parties. The episode suggests Martian is in dire circumstances, raising questions about whether these injuries were inflicted by tormentors or sustained in combat, leaving audiences eager for subsequent revelations.
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