The Umbrella Academy Season 2: Episode 3 – The Swedish Job

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, premiered in 2019 and quickly gained a loyal following for its unique blend of superhero drama, time travel, and family dynamics. Season 2, released in July 2020, continues the story of the Hargreeves siblings as they navigate through time and confront their past and future.

"The Swedish Job," the third episode of Season 2, is directed by Ellen Kuras and written by Jesse McKeown. This episode is notable for its intricate plot, character development, and the introduction of several pivotal events that shape the season’s narrative. The episode’s title, "The Swedish Job," refers to the Swedish gangsters who play a significant role in the storyline.

Plot Summary

The episode "The Swedish Job" opens with a flashback to Klaus Hargreeves’ journey after he and his brother Ben landed in 1960 Dallas. This segment provides a brief history of how Klaus became a cult leader, leveraging his charisma and Ben’s ghostly assistance to perform "magic" tricks that captivated audiences worldwide. However, as Klaus’s fame grew, so did his discomfort with the constant attention, leading him to attempt to escape his followers.

In the present timeline, the episode transitions to Vanya Hargreeves, who is on the run after discovering her lost memories. She takes off in Grace’s car, hoping to find more information, but is soon pursued by the Swedish gangsters. These gangsters, known as the Swedes, are relentless in their pursuit, and Vanya finds herself chased into a cornfield, where she narrowly escapes their clutches ^[1][4].

Meanwhile, Allison Hargreeves reconnects with Klaus, marking a significant moment in their sibling relationship. Allison’s new life in Dallas is revealed, showcasing her integration into the community and her efforts to move past her family’s tumultuous history. However, this tranquility is short-lived as Luther Hargreeves, who has also settled in Dallas, discovers Allison’s new life and is shocked by the changes she has undergone. Luther’s own life in Dallas is highlighted, where he has gained a local reputation as a hero, earning the nickname "King Kong" from the local children ^[5].

Luther’s encounter with a woman who bears a striking resemblance to Allison triggers a series of events where he becomes obsessed with finding her. With the help of Jack, a local figure with connections, Luther tracks down Allison’s address and confronts her about her new life. This reunion is fraught with tension and unresolved emotions, reflecting the complex relationships within the Hargreeves family.

As the sit-in approaches, a significant event in the civil rights movement, the episode intertwines historical context with the personal struggles of the characters. The sit-in serves as a backdrop for the characters’ interactions and decisions, highlighting themes of social change and personal transformation.

The Swedes continue to be a central threat, not just to Vanya but to the entire Hargreeves family. Their relentless pursuit and the mysterious motives behind their actions add a layer of tension and suspense to the episode. Luther’s distressing discovery, which involves uncovering a dark secret related to his past actions, further complicates the narrative and sets the stage for future conflicts ^[3].

Throughout the episode, the characters’ paths converge and diverge in complex ways, reflecting the show’s signature non-linear storytelling. The episode ends on a cliffhanger, with several plot threads left unresolved, setting the stage for the next episode’s revelations.

Themes and Symbolism

"The Swedish Job" explores several key themes that are central to the series. One of the primary themes is the struggle with identity and belonging. Klaus’s journey as a cult leader and his subsequent attempt to escape this role highlight his search for genuine connection and purpose. Similarly, Allison’s new life in Dallas and Luther’s local fame underscore their attempts to find a sense of belonging outside of their family’s shadow.

The episode also delves into the theme of family and the bonds that tie the Hargreeves siblings together. The reunions and confrontations between the siblings are fraught with emotional depth, revealing the scars of their past and the challenges of their present.

Historical context plays a significant role, with the civil rights movement serving as a backdrop. This setting adds a layer of social commentary, highlighting the characters’ involvement in and reaction to significant historical events.

Symbolically, the Swedes represent an external threat that forces the characters to confront their internal conflicts. The cornfield chase, where Vanya narrowly escapes, symbolizes her ongoing struggle to control her powers and her destiny.

Cultural Impact

"The Swedish Job" was well-received by audiences, who praised the episode’s intricate plot and character development. The episode’s blend of historical context and superhero elements resonated with viewers, contributing to the show’s growing popularity.

The episode’s influence on pop culture is evident in its unique storytelling and character arcs, which have been referenced in various forms of media. The show’s use of historical events as a backdrop for its narrative has also been noted for its innovative approach to storytelling.

Critical Reception

Critics praised "The Swedish Job" for its engaging storyline and the performances of the cast. The episode received an IMDb rating of 8.2/10, reflecting its positive reception among viewers ^[3].

Reviewers highlighted the episode’s ability to balance multiple plot threads and character developments, creating a cohesive and compelling narrative. The historical context and the integration of real-world events into the storyline were also praised for adding depth to the episode.

However, some critics noted that the pacing could be improved in certain segments, and the episode’s reliance on cliffhangers left some viewers frustrated.

Legacy

"The Swedish Job" has left a lasting impact on the series and its fans. The episode’s complex narrative and character developments have set the stage for future episodes, influencing the overall arc of the season.

The episode’s use of historical context and its exploration of themes such as identity, family, and social change have contributed to the show’s reputation for innovative storytelling. As a result, "The Swedish Job" remains a pivotal episode in the series, reflecting the show’s ability to blend action, drama, and historical significance.