The Umbrella Academy Season 1: Episode 2 – Run Boy Run

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, created by Steve Blackman, premiered in February 2019 and quickly gained a significant following for its unique blend of superhero drama, mystery, and family dynamics. The second episode, "Run Boy Run," is directed by Andrew Bernstein and written by Steve Blackman, marking a pivotal point in the series by deepening the mystery and escalating the tension among the Hargreeves siblings.

Produced by Borderline Entertainment, Dark Horse Entertainment, and Universal Cable Productions, "The Umbrella Academy" stands out in its genre for its complex characters, intricate plotlines, and a narrative that seamlessly weaves together elements of science fiction, drama, and action. The show features a talented ensemble cast, including Ellen Page, Tom Hopper, David Castañeda, and Aidan Gallagher, among others.

Plot Summary

"Run Boy Run" opens with Number Five, played by Aidan Gallagher, recounting his story of time travel to Vanya, portrayed by Ellen Page. Five explains how, 17 years ago, he attempted to time travel despite his father’s warnings, resulting in him being stuck in the future for nearly two decades. His return is marked by a dire warning: the world will end in eight days. However, his siblings are skeptical of his claims, adding to the growing desperation and urgency that defines Five’s character.

As Five delves deeper into his mission to prevent the apocalypse, he becomes obsessed with finding the owner of a fake eye bearing the logo of MeriTech. This quest leads him to the MeriTech headquarters, where he is met with resistance and secrecy. Meanwhile, two mysterious and ruthless time-traveling assassins, Hazel and Cha-Cha, are introduced, hot on Five’s trail and adding a layer of danger to the narrative^[1][4].

The episode also explores the individual struggles of the Hargreeves siblings. Allison, played by Emmy Raver-Lampman, grapples with the complexities of her relationship with her ex-husband and daughter. Her character’s arc is marked by a sense of disconnection and the weight of her past actions. Vanya, feeling isolated and misunderstood, begins to form a connection with Leonard Peabody, an older student who shows an obvious interest in her. However, Vanya’s reluctance to pursue this relationship reflects her ongoing struggle with her place within the family^[2][4].

Diego, portrayed by David Castañeda, is depicted as a vigilante who lands in trouble with the law. His character’s vigilante tendencies are a manifestation of his need for validation and purpose, which is further complicated by his strained relationship with his family. Luther, played by Tom Hopper, remains obsessed with uncovering the truth about their father’s death. A pivotal moment occurs when Allison discovers a hidden surveillance tape hinting at a possible conspiracy surrounding Reginald Hargreeves’ demise, reigniting Luther’s determination to investigate further^[2][4].

The dynamics between the siblings are further complicated by their individual traumas and misunderstandings. Luther visits Diego at his home, the boiler room of a local gym, and discovers that Diego could not have killed their father due to his alibi. This revelation sparks a tense conversation about trust and innocence within the family. Meanwhile, Klaus, played by Robert Sheehan, continues to struggle with his addiction and his role within the family, often using humor and eccentricity to mask his deeper emotional pain^[4][5].

As the episode progresses, the tension escalates with the introduction of Hazel and Cha-Cha, who are relentless in their pursuit of Five. Their characters add a dark and comedic element to the show, highlighting the absurdity and danger of time travel. The episode ends on a chilling note as Five, driven by a desperate vision of his siblings’ deaths, seizes a moment of vulnerability to extract a crucial piece of evidence from Luther. This act underscores the desperation and urgency that drives Five’s actions throughout the episode^[2][5].

Themes and Symbolism

"Run Boy Run" delves into several key themes that are central to the series. One of the primary themes is the concept of family and the complexities of sibling relationships. The Hargreeves siblings are portrayed as deeply flawed and emotionally scarred individuals, each struggling with their own demons and insecurities. This episode highlights the fractures within the family and the difficulties they face in coming together to address the impending apocalypse.

Another significant theme is the impact of trauma and isolation. Characters like Vanya and Klaus are shown to be particularly affected by their past experiences, leading to feelings of isolation and disconnection. The episode symbolically explores these themes through the use of settings such as the isolated environments of Vanya’s apartment and Diego’s gym boiler room, which reflect their emotional states.

The theme of identity is also prominent, particularly through the characters of Allison and Diego. Allison’s struggle with her past and her current role as a mother and ex-wife underscores the complexities of identity and the challenges of living up to societal expectations. Diego’s vigilante persona serves as a mask for his true identity and his need for validation.

The symbolic use of the fake eye and the MeriTech logo serves as a metaphor for the unknown and the hidden truths that the characters are trying to uncover. The eye represents a piece of the puzzle that Five needs to solve in order to prevent the apocalypse, symbolizing the larger mystery that the series is built around^[1][4].

Cultural Impact

"Run Boy Run" was well-received by audiences for its engaging storyline and character development. The episode’s introduction of Hazel and Cha-Cha as time-traveling assassins added a unique and entertaining element to the show, making them fan favorites. The episode’s themes of family, trauma, and identity resonated with viewers, contributing to the show’s cultural impact.

The show’s influence on pop culture is evident in its references in other media and fan discussions. The characters and their quirks have become part of the pop culture lexicon, with many fans appreciating the show’s blend of humor, drama, and science fiction.

Critical Reception

Critics praised "Run Boy Run" for its ability to deepen the mystery and escalate the tension from the first episode. The introduction of new characters and plot twists was seen as a positive development, adding complexity to the narrative. The performances of the cast, particularly Aidan Gallagher and Ellen Page, were highlighted as strong points of the episode.

However, some critics noted that the pacing could be improved and that some plot points felt a bit rushed. Despite this, the overall reception was positive, with many praising the show’s unique storytelling and character development^[2][3].

Legacy

"Run Boy Run" has left a lasting impact on the series and its fans. The episode’s focus on character development and the introduction of new threats set the stage for the rest of the season. The themes explored in this episode continue to resonate throughout the series, making it a pivotal moment in the narrative.

The episode’s influence can be seen in how it shaped the characters’ arcs and the overall storyline of "The Umbrella Academy." It remains a significant part of the show’s legacy, contributing to its continued relevance and influence on future media and creators.