The Umbrella Academy Season 3: Episode 3 - Pocket Full of Lightning - The Umbrella Academy

Introduction

The Umbrella Academy is a Netflix original series based on the comic book series of the same name by Gerard Way and Gabriel Bá. The show, developed by Steve Blackman, has garnered significant attention for its unique blend of superhero elements, complex characters, and intricate time-travel narratives. Season 3, which premiered in 2022, continues the story of the Hargreeves siblings as they navigate new challenges and paradoxes.

"The Umbrella Academy Season 3: Episode 3 – Pocket Full of Lightning" is a pivotal episode in the series, directed by Cheryl Dunye and written by Jesse McKeown. This episode stands out for its exploration of time-travel consequences, character relationships, and the introduction of new plot twists.

Plot Summary

The episode "Pocket Full of Lightning" opens with a presentation by the Commission about the Grandfather Paradox, a concept that underscores the dangers of altering the timeline. This backdrop sets the stage for the Hargreeves siblings’ latest ordeal. Luther, still basking in the joy of his time spent with Sloane, returns to Hotel Obsidian only to find that his siblings are oblivious to his recent absence. This anomaly is part of a larger issue: people and objects are disappearing in waves, and the siblings soon realize that their mothers’ deaths are linked to these disappearances.

Diego suggests that Reginald Hargreeves, their adoptive father, might be responsible for these events, but the truth is more complex. Five, who has been dealing with the aftermath of his time-traveling adventures, encounters Lila in the bathroom. Despite their initial confrontation, they discover that they share a common problem: the Grandfather Paradox is unfolding, and they need to stop it. Lila possesses two briefcases from the Commission, neither of which works, prompting Five and Lila to reluctantly team up to solve their time-travel issue.

Their collaboration begins in the hotel’s utility room, where they attempt to hotwire one of the briefcases. After several failed attempts, Lila mimics Five’s powers, and together they manage to activate the briefcase. This successful activation results in a time jump that lands them in a blizzard-ridden tundra, where they find the remains of the Commission.

Meanwhile, Klaus has a significant encounter with Reginald, offering a new perspective on their complicated father-son relationship. Reginald’s character is further explored, revealing more about his motivations and the depth of his emotional connection with his children.

Viktor, Allison, and Luther decide to engage with the Sparrows, a rival group of super-powered individuals, in an attempt to smooth over their differences. However, this meeting is fraught with tension, particularly because Luther is soft on the Sparrows, especially Sloane. The Sparrows arrive without the briefcase they were supposed to bring, and the situation escalates when Ben informs them that the deal is off.

The scene shifts to the Commission’s lobby, where a chaotic sequence of events unfolds. Stanley, Diego’s son, accidentally starts a fire, and Diego rushes to get him to safety. Ben commands Christopher, a cube with powerful abilities, to psychologically torture Viktor, Allison, and Luther. Just as the situation seems dire, an older man named Harlan, who was nine years old in 1963 and now appears as a 65-year-old, intervenes. Harlan, also known as Lester Pocket, unleashes a blast of fire on the Sparrows, killing Jayme and Alphonso while Luther protects Sloane.

The title "Pocket Full of Lightning" is multifaceted, referencing the ball of lightning in the Academy’s basement, cube Christopher’s abilities, and Harlan’s newfound powers. This episode is marked by its intense action sequences, emotional character moments, and the deepening mystery surrounding the Hargreeves family and their adversaries.

As the episode progresses, the stakes are raised with the disappearance of Marcus, a Sparrow, who is theorized to have been consumed by the paradox. The Umbrellas and the Sparrows are on a collision course, with each side facing internal conflicts and external threats. The narrative is woven with intricate details about time travel, family dynamics, and the consequences of altering the timeline.

The episode concludes with several unresolved threads, setting the stage for further complications and revelations in subsequent episodes. The disappearance of people and objects continues, and the Hargreeves siblings are left to navigate this treacherous landscape, unsure of what the future holds.

Themes and Symbolism

"Pocket Full of Lightning" delves into several key themes that are central to the series. One of the primary themes is the complexity of family relationships, particularly the bond between the Hargreeves siblings and their adoptive father, Reginald. The episode highlights the emotional depth and the often fraught interactions within this dysfunctional family.

Time and its consequences are another significant theme. The Grandfather Paradox serves as a backdrop to explore the dangers of meddling with the timeline. This concept underscores the butterfly effect, where small changes can have monumental repercussions.

The episode also explores themes of identity and belonging. Lila’s character, for instance, is grappling with her past and her feelings towards Diego, while Five is dealing with the isolation that comes with his time-traveling abilities. These personal struggles are set against the larger backdrop of the siblings’ collective identity as a family and their place in the world.

Symbolism is evident in the use of lightning, which represents power, change, and the unpredictable nature of time. The ball of lightning in the Academy’s basement, cube Christopher’s abilities, and Harlan’s powers all symbolize the volatile and transformative forces at play in the narrative.

Cultural Impact

"Pocket Full of Lightning" has contributed to the broader cultural impact of The Umbrella Academy. The episode’s unique blend of action, drama, and science fiction has resonated with audiences, making it a topic of discussion in fan communities and social media. The introduction of new characters and plot twists has kept the series fresh and engaging, influencing pop culture with its distinctive take on superhero narratives.

Critical Reception

Critics and viewers have responded positively to "Pocket Full of Lightning," praising its intricate plot, character development, and the emotional depth of the story. The episode has been lauded for its pacing, with many noting that it effectively balances action and emotional moments. However, some critics have pointed out that the episode’s complexity can be overwhelming, particularly for viewers who are not fully invested in the series’ intricate timeline.

Overall, the episode has been well-received for its contribution to the series’ narrative arc and its ability to keep viewers engaged and curious about what comes next.

Legacy

"Pocket Full of Lightning" is a significant episode in The Umbrella Academy series, marking a turning point in the narrative that sets the stage for future episodes. Its exploration of time-travel consequences, family dynamics, and personal identity has left a lasting impact on the series.

The episode’s influence can be seen in its continued relevance to the show’s overall storyline, with many of its plot threads and character developments being crucial to the subsequent episodes. It has also contributed to the series’ reputation for complex storytelling and character-driven narratives, influencing other creators in the genre.