The Umbrella Academy Season 1: Episode 3 – Extra Ordinary

Introduction

"The Umbrella Academy" is a Netflix series based on the comic book series of the same name by Gerard Way and Gabriel Bá. The show, developed by Steve Blackman, premiered on February 15, 2019, and quickly gained a significant following for its unique blend of superhero drama, mystery, and family dynamics. The third episode, "Extra Ordinary," is directed by Andrew Bernstein and written by Ben Nedivi and Matt Wolpert, who are also producers on the series.

"Extra Ordinary" stands out within the genre for its deep dive into the psychological and emotional struggles of its characters, particularly the Hargreeves siblings, who were raised as superheroes by their adoptive father, Reginald Hargreeves. This episode is notable for its exploration of the characters’ pasts, their current conflicts, and the external threats that they face.

Plot Summary

The episode "Extra Ordinary" begins with a flashback focusing on Vanya Hargreeves, also known as Number Seven, who feels like an outsider within her family. Unlike her siblings, Vanya does not possess any superpowers, which has always made her feel overlooked and undervalued. This flashback shows Vanya walking past a store displaying comics about The Umbrella Academy, a stark reminder of her family’s public image and her own lack of recognition. She purchases a typewriter and starts writing her autobiography, a tell-all account of her life as a member of the Hargreeves family.

In the present, the Hargreeves siblings are dealing with the aftermath of their father’s death. Luther and Allison are investigating the circumstances surrounding Reginald’s demise, which leads them to review a video tape that they believe might hold clues. However, their analysis is interrupted by a home invasion by Hazel and Cha-Cha, two time-traveling assassins who are hunting for Number Five.

During the family meeting to discuss the video, Diego challenges Luther’s theory about their mother’s involvement in Reginald’s death. Diego points out that their mother was simply removing Reginald’s monocle in the video, which he knows because he took the monocle from her after the memorial service. This leads to a heated discussion about their mother, who is a robot designed to be both a caretaker and a protector. Vanya suggests that their mother’s mechanical elements might be degrading, prompting Luther to propose turning her off. This idea is met with strong opposition from Diego, who recalls the emotional support their mother provided during his childhood struggles with a stutter.

The family decides to put the decision to a vote, with Vanya and Klaus supporting Diego, while Allison sides with Luther. The vote is left open pending Number Five’s input, who is currently missing. Meanwhile, Hazel and Cha-Cha regroup at their hotel after their botched mission. Despite their failure to capture Number Five, they manage to take Klaus as a hostage.

The episode also delves into Allison’s personal life, revealing her struggles with her marriage and her relationship with her daughter, Claire. Allison is required to attend mandatory counseling to regain visitation rights, a consequence of using her powers to manipulate her daughter’s behavior during a temper tantrum. This incident highlights the morally gray areas that the Hargreeves siblings often face due to their powers and their complex family dynamics.

As the episode progresses, the Hargreeves family continues to grapple with their internal conflicts and the external threats posed by Hazel and Cha-Cha. The siblings’ past experiences and current anxieties are intertwined, showing how their upbringing as superheroes has turned them into damaged adults. The episode ends with a sense of impending danger and unresolved family issues, setting the stage for further conflicts in subsequent episodes.

Themes and Symbolism

"Extra Ordinary" explores several key themes that are central to the series. One of the primary themes is the concept of identity and belonging. Vanya’s storyline highlights her struggle to find her place within a family of superheroes, emphasizing the emotional toll of feeling overlooked and undervalued. This theme is also reflected in the other siblings’ stories, as they navigate their complex relationships and personal demons.

Another significant theme is the impact of trauma and upbringing on adult life. The Hargreeves siblings’ experiences as children, including their rigorous training and the emotional abuse they suffered at the hands of their father, are shown to have lasting effects on their mental health and relationships. This is particularly evident in Diego’s stutter and Allison’s use of her powers on her daughter, which serve as reminders of the long-term consequences of their childhood traumas.

The episode also explores the theme of family and loyalty. Despite their differences and conflicts, the Hargreeves siblings are bound together by their shared past and their desire to protect one another. This is seen in their discussions about their mother and their efforts to uncover the truth about their father’s death.

Symbolically, the episode uses the character of their mother, a robot, to represent the complexities of maternal love and protection. Her mechanical nature contrasts with the emotional depth of her interactions with the siblings, highlighting the blurred lines between human and artificial relationships.

Cultural Impact

"Extra Ordinary" was well-received by audiences and contributed to the overall popularity of "The Umbrella Academy." The episode’s exploration of complex family dynamics and the psychological effects of superpowers resonated with viewers, making it a standout in the series. The character development and the introduction of new plot twists kept audiences engaged and eager for more.

The episode’s influence on pop culture is evident in its portrayal of flawed superheroes and the exploration of themes that are both personal and universal. It has been referenced in various discussions about the evolution of the superhero genre and the importance of character-driven storytelling.

Critical Reception

Critics praised "Extra Ordinary" for its deep character development and the way it delved into the psychological complexities of the Hargreeves siblings. The episode was lauded for its balanced mix of action, mystery, and emotional drama, which kept viewers invested in the story. The performances of the cast, particularly Ellen Page as Vanya and David Castañeda as Diego, were highlighted as strong points of the episode.

However, some critics noted that the pacing could be slow at times and that the introduction of new characters and plotlines added to the complexity of the narrative. Despite these minor criticisms, the episode was generally well-received and is considered one of the stronger episodes of the first season.

Legacy

"Extra Ordinary" has left a lasting impact on the series and its audience. It set the stage for further exploration of the Hargreeves siblings’ pasts and their ongoing struggles with their powers and their family dynamics. The episode’s focus on character development and emotional depth has influenced how subsequent episodes approached storytelling, ensuring that the series remains character-driven and emotionally resonant.

The episode’s themes of identity, trauma, and family loyalty continue to resonate with audiences, making "The Umbrella Academy" a series that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. As the series continues to evolve, "Extra Ordinary" remains a pivotal episode that underscores the complexities and depth of its characters.