The Agency Episode 7 Finale Explained: General Volchok’s Menace & Martian’s Strategy to Rescue Samia

WARNING: SPOILERS ahead for The Agency episode 7.

In the gripping seventh episode titled “Hard Landing”of the Paramount+ political thriller series The Agency, the plot thickens as Osman inches closer to uncovering Martian’s true identity, placing him in increasing proximity to Samia. This series, a product of American television visionaries Jez and John-Henry Butterworth (known for Edge of Tomorrow and Ford v Ferrari), draws its inspiration from the acclaimed 2015 French series The Bureau, crafted by Eric Rochant. The star-studded cast features Michael Fassbender, alongside Jeffrey Wright, Richard Gere, Katherine Waterson, John Magaro, Saura Lightfoot-Leon, and Jodie Turner-Smith.

Throughout earlier episodes, including “The Bends”and “Wooden Duck,”we follow the journey of Fassbender’s character, “Paul Lewis,”who is abruptly pulled from a six-year undercover assignment to help track down a missing Belarusian CIA operative known as Coyote. Episode 3, titled “Hawk from a Handsaw,”showcases three undercover agents referred to as “Felix,”who are in a dire escape from Ukraine under Russian occupation. In episode 4, “Quarterback Blitz,”Martian encounters a KGB operative named Mikhail, proving pivotal as the CIA searches for their lost asset in episode 5’s “Rat Trap.”Episode 6 delves deeper into the CIA’s pursuit of Agent Coyote, while episode 7 draws Samia into the action during a critical moment for Martian.

New episodes of The Agency premiere every Friday on Paramount+.

Martian’s Plan to Recruit Samia for the CIA

Using Recruitment as a Cover for Escape

The Agency Season 1 Ep 1-2 — Image via SHOWTIME

As Osman uncovers Martian’s connection to his daughter Poppy, the pressure intensifies. During the previous episode, as “Paul Lewis,”he had his hotel room searched. As the events unfold, Samia is left in disbelief upon discovering that Paul is not merely a teacher and aspiring author, but connected to an enigmatic world far beyond her understanding. The climax of episode 7 reveals a private meeting orchestrated by Martian, disguised as a potential threat to Samia’s Visa status in London. Although Osman grows suspicious of “Paul,”he fails to see through the fraudulent academic email allowing their fateful encounter.

In discussions with colleagues Naomi and Henry, Martian had initially claimed that recruiting Samia was his objective. However, it increasingly seems he may be planning to leave the Agency behind for a future with her.

Martian’s Decision to Confront General Volchok through Alexei

Strategic Use of Alexei to Reach Volchok

Jeffrey Wright and Michael Fassbender walk together in The Agency — Image via SHOWTIME

After enduring a rigorous test of loyalty in episode 2, Alexei becomes pivotal once again in Martian’s strategy. Armed with intel about General Volchok’s intent to hand over Agent Coyote to the Russian government, Martian identifies Alexei as the quickest route to access Volchok. Upon returning to Belarus, Alexei is intercepted by Valhalla soldiers, mercenaries under Volchok’s command. He must concoct a convincing tale of betrayal, claiming he was scammed out of $300,000 by Volchok’s rivals.

Under intense scrutiny, Volchok suspects Alexei’s composure surpasses that of ordinary men facing threats. This arouses Volchok’s caution as he begins to connect the dots about Alexei’s true mission. If Volchok suspects Alexei to be a pawn in the CIA’s game, it places Alexei in grave danger.

Danny’s Strategic Maneuver for the Tehran Scholarship

Leveraging Intimidation Tactics

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With escalating tension surrounding Martian, Danny finds himself relying heavily on the skills of fellow operative Edward. Realizing that the competition for a pivotal scholarship is heating up, which is crucial for a mission focused on Iran’s nuclear capabilities, Danny approaches Edward for assistance. He instructs Edward to intimidate a rival student by implying threats to his family, essentially clearing the path for Danny to secure the scholarship.

Exploring Martian’s Hidden Truths

Desires Revealed in Video Archives

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Dr. Blake, the CIA psychologist, keenly observes that Naomi harbors strong feelings for Martian, as evidenced by her protective demeanor. Compelled by her instincts, Naomi stays late at the London headquarters to search Martian’s baseline checks while he operates in Ethiopia. It becomes evident that her connection with Martian extends beyond mere professional ties.

During her investigation, Naomi discovers footage of Martian expressing a longing to be with Samia after the mission concludes. This revelation casts doubt on Martian’s true intentions—are his plans for recruitment a disguise for a possible escape with Samia?

Has Volchok Unraveled Alexei’s True Allegiance?

Suspicion of American Interference

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As episode 7 draws to a close, Volchok seems to realize that Alexei may not be genuine and suspects American involvement. Martian’s calculation might have included the risk of Alexei’s cover being blown, possibly setting him up to provide a link to Volchok. Even if it’s unconventional, Martian manipulating Alexei into facing Volchok could mark a clever strategy to regain control of the Coyote situation.

Future Developments for Martian & Samia

Unraveling the Truth Behind Paul Lewis

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Early theories suggesting Samia as a secret agent may not hold water anymore, especially if her skills in deception don’t exceed those of a gifted actress. It’s anticipated that Martian, alongside Naomi and Henry, will soon disclose their intentions of recruiting her into the Agency, a move that carries more risks than advantages for Samia.

Upon learning about Martian’s extensive deceptions, Samia may resist cooperation, turning into a potential threat to Martian in the ongoing narrative of The Agency.

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