The Umbrella Academy Season 1: Episode 9 – Changes

Introduction

The Umbrella Academy, based on the comic book series by Gerard Way and Gabriel Bá, is a Netflix original series that premiered in 2019. The show was developed by Steve Blackman, who also serves as the executive producer alongside Gerard Way, Gabriel Bá, and others. The first season, comprising ten episodes, was well-received for its unique blend of superhero drama, family dynamics, and time travel elements.

Episode 9, titled "Changes," is a pivotal installment in the series, directed by Jeremy Webb and written by Robert Askin and Steve Blackman. This episode stands out for its intense character developments, particularly focusing on Vanya Hargreeves, and the escalating conflicts that drive the narrative towards its climax.

Plot Summary

"Changes" opens with a flashback to Vanya’s childhood, where she is seen refusing to eat her oatmeal, a mundane task that turns violent when she uses her powers to fling nannies away, much to Reginald Hargreeves’ anger and outrage. This scene introduces the robot nanny, Grace, who is resilient enough to withstand Vanya’s outbursts, eventually coercing Vanya into eating her breakfast ^[3][5].

The present day finds Vanya at Leonard’s house, where she is still reeling from the discovery that Leonard, whose real name is Harold Jenkins, has been manipulating her throughout their relationship. Leonard’s plan to trigger Vanya’s powers by making her feel weak and useless backfires when Vanya, in a fit of rage, uses her powers to kill him. This moment marks a significant turning point for Vanya, as she realizes the full extent of Leonard’s manipulation and the harm she has caused, particularly to her sister Allison ^[5].

Meanwhile, the Hargreeves siblings are dealing with their own issues. Diego is hunting for Hazel and Cha Cha, while Klaus questions Five about his ability to control his powers. Five, however, is preoccupied with returning his mannequin girlfriend, Delores, to the shopping center, symbolizing his attempt to find some semblance of normalcy in his chaotic life ^[4].

At the Umbrella Academy, Luther tries to explain the situation to Allison, who is still recovering from her injuries and is unwilling to speak to him. The tension among the siblings is palpable, especially as they grapple with the consequences of Vanya’s actions. Vanya, feeling isolated and misunderstood, is taken back to the academy by Luther, who locks her in the same isolated chamber from her childhood. This act of confinement triggers a severe mental breakdown in Vanya, as she begins to see a reflection of her younger self, urging her to embrace her powers and break free from her prison ^[1][3][5].

As Vanya’s mental state deteriorates, she experiences a series of flashbacks and hallucinations, including interactions with her younger self. This younger version of Vanya serves as a manifestation of her inner turmoil and the suppressed anger and fear she has carried since childhood. The younger Vanya convinces the present-day Vanya that her siblings will keep her locked up forever, fueling her determination to break free. With her powers surging, Vanya manages to blow out the door and the entire metal wall of her chamber, marking her transformation into the White Violin ^[1][5].

The episode culminates with a massive explosion that startles Allison and Luther, signaling Vanya’s escape. This event sets the stage for the final confrontation in the next episode, as the Hargreeves family faces the full force of Vanya’s unleashed powers.

Themes and Symbolism

"Changes" delves into several profound themes, including the consequences of manipulation and the struggle for self-discovery. Vanya’s journey is a stark example of how prolonged manipulation can lead to catastrophic outcomes. Leonard’s actions, though driven by a twisted sense of love and understanding, ultimately result in Vanya’s descent into chaos and her transformation into a force of destruction.

The theme of isolation is also prominent, as Vanya’s confinement serves as a physical and emotional metaphor for her lifelong feelings of being an outsider within her own family. The chamber, a place of both protection and punishment, symbolizes the fear and misunderstanding that have defined Vanya’s relationships with her siblings.

The character of Vanya’s younger self acts as a symbolic representation of her inner conflict, highlighting the unresolved issues of her past and the suppressed emotions that have been building up over the years. This internal dialogue underscores the psychological complexity of Vanya’s character and the deep-seated trauma she has endured.

Cultural Impact

"Changes" was widely discussed among audiences for its intense and emotional portrayal of Vanya’s breakdown. The episode’s climax, featuring Vanya’s escape and transformation, became a pivotal moment in the series, generating significant buzz on social media and fan forums.

The episode’s influence on pop culture is evident in its portrayal of complex, flawed characters and the exploration of themes such as mental health, family dynamics, and the consequences of trauma. These elements have resonated with viewers and contributed to the show’s cult following.

Critical Reception

Critics praised "Changes" for its dramatic intensity and the compelling performance of Ellen Page as Vanya Hargreeves. The episode was lauded for its emotional depth and the way it handled sensitive themes such as mental health and family trauma.

Viewers also responded positively, appreciating the episode’s ability to balance action and emotional drama. However, some critics noted that the pacing could be uneven at times, and the episode’s reliance on flashbacks and hallucinations might be confusing for some viewers.

Legacy

"Changes" remains a significant episode in the first season of The Umbrella Academy, marking a critical turning point in the narrative. The episode’s focus on Vanya’s character development and the escalation of conflicts sets the stage for the season’s finale, making it a crucial installment in the series.

The episode’s themes and character arcs continue to influence the subsequent seasons, as the show explores deeper into the psychological and emotional journeys of the Hargreeves siblings. "Changes" stands as a testament to the show’s ability to blend superhero elements with profound human drama, making it a lasting contribution to the genre.