What I’m Watching: Westworld

Westworld: Season 2, Episode 9 “Vanishing Point” (B+)

I’m amazed that it’s been almost a full week since the season finale aired and I haven’t had either of the final two episodes spoiled for me, and with six hours of television ahead of the finale in the queue, I’m hoping that will continue. This episode was unusual because it actually provided some direct answers and, more importantly, showed us specific scenes that happened in the real world. I don’t want to read any recaps to confirm that what I saw was indeed what I saw for fear of stumbling upon a critical spoiler, but I think the gist is clear. William’s addiction to Westworld pushed his wife to the edge, exacerbating a drinking problem that may have started as a result of his frequent absences and making him feel lonelier and lonelier as he pursued the end of the game. Killing all of the people who showed up and then shooting his daughter because he thought she was Ford trying to test him shows how far he’s gone with no hope of return, and seeing Ford present his initial challenge to William doesn’t justify the fact that he has now killed the only person who still mattered to him. Teddy shooting himself in front of Dolores doesn’t feel as consequential since he is a host and could therefore be easily received, something I don’t believe is possible if the guests die within the park. Bernard is the true hero of this season, fighting valiantly against his programming to prove that he can be good. I’m excited for the finale and hopeful that it will be intense, enthralling, and satisfying in whatever way this show can be.