Monarch: Legacy of Monsters episode 5 review: The Way Out

Just when you think Monarch: Legacy of Monsters couldn’t get any more gripping, episode 5, “The Way Out,” comes along and proves us all gloriously wrong.

Another Friday has come, and with that another incredible episode of Apple TV’s Monarch: Legacy of Monsters is here for us to enjoy. “The Way Out” wasn’t just a thrill ride – it was a showing off of the show’s ability to relay its story to its audience, blending personal drama and the lingering terror of the big Zilla Godzilla’s wrath in a way that felt both fresh and deep.

SPOILER ALERT for those who dare venture below this sentence – I will be talking about the episode in its entirety.

The beauty of “The Way Out” is its portrayal and realistic approach to a world that has grown accustomed to giant monsters roaming around and destroying everything. Continuing the momentum started by the previous episodes, this one revisits the awe and horror of the initial Godzilla attacks. It’s a stark reminder of the real consequences of such unimaginable disasters – something the MonsterVerse sometimes glosses over in favor of making all the destruction visually appealing and exciting.

Our favorite dysfunctional trio – Cate, Kentaro, and May – find themselves in a sticky situation in Alaska, leading to a plot twist that feels both tense and authentic. The combination and merging of their personal dynamics with the looming threat of the titans is handled with a finesse that keeps you truly invested in their journey. And let’s talk about Shaw – his interactions with Verdugo are some of the most engaging scenes, bringing a much-needed humor and wit to the otherwise pretty intense story and vibes in the show.

The episode’s flashback sequences are where it really shines. The portrayal of the days leading up to Godzilla’s arrival from the 2014 movie Godzilla is chillingly effective, echoing real-world tragedies and events in a way that’s relatable and still very unnerving. It’s a powerful reflection on how people often dismiss imminent threats until it’s too late, adding layers of depth to Cate’s character and her reaction to the accusations surrounding G-Day.

The emotional core of the episode, however, is Cate’s personal journey. Her struggles with guilt, PTSD, and the revelation of her father’s second family add a very human element to this colossal story. This personal drama set against the backdrop of ‘Zilla’s destruction gives us a narrative that’s just as emotionally engaging as it is dramatic.

On the technical side, the episode is a triumph. The direction is tight, the pacing is spot on, and the visual storytelling, especially in the flashback scenes, is incredibly effective. It’s an episode that manages to balance character development, action, and the overarching mystery of the series in a way that feels both natural and exciting.

Episode 5 of Monarch: Legacy of Monsters is, much like its predecessors, a standout in an already fantastic series. It’s a reminder of the series’ ability to not only entertain but also to evoke a deeper emotional response from its viewers. It’s thrilling, heart-wrenching, and thought-provoking – a perfect blend that keeps us eagerly awaiting the next episode. Bravo to the team behind this series; they continuously outdo themselves, and have effectively done so with every single episode so far.

Can’t wait to see what’s next? Tune into Apple TV Friday, December 15th to catch the next episode, “Terrifying Miracles”.

What did you think of Monarch: Legacy of Monsters‘ fifth episode? Have you been enjoying the series thus far?