The Umbrella Academy Season 2: Episode 5 – Valhalla

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 2019 and has since garnered a significant following for its unique blend of superhero drama, time travel, and family dynamics. Season 2, which includes Episode 5 titled "Valhalla," continues the intricate narrative of the Hargreeves siblings as they navigate through time and confront their past and future.

Produced by Universal Content Productions and Dark Horse Entertainment, "The Umbrella Academy" features a talented ensemble cast, including Ellen Page, Tom Hopper, David Castañeda, and Aidan Gallagher, among others. The series is known for its complex characters, layered storytelling, and the integration of various themes such as identity, family, and the consequences of power.

Episode 5 of Season 2, "Valhalla," is directed by Stephen Surjik and written by Bronwyn Garrity. This episode is pivotal in the season’s narrative, as it brings together several plot threads and character arcs, setting the stage for the season’s climax.

Plot Summary

"Valhalla" opens with a poignant flashback to Pogo’s early life, revealing the tragic circumstances that led to his transformation into a sentient ape. This backstory adds depth to Pogo’s character and underscores the themes of identity and the ethical implications of scientific experimentation^[2][3].

In the present, the Hargreeves siblings are scattered across Dallas in 1963, each dealing with their own personal struggles and the consequences of their time-traveling adventures. Five, who has been tracking Lila, finally confronts her in an abandoned warehouse. Their confrontation escalates into a fight, during which Five attempts to make good on his promise to kill her. However, he ultimately spares her life and traps her under his foot. The Handler appears, revealing her involvement with Lila and proposing a deal to Five^[1][5].

Meanwhile, the rest of the siblings are trying to tie up loose ends in their new lives. Allison is struggling to connect with her husband, Raymond, while Klaus returns to the mansion and is swarmed by his followers. Vanya, still sans memory, is living a new life with Sissy, her "gal pal," and nearly gets caught by Sissy’s husband when he returns home early. It is also revealed that Harlan, Sissy’s son, has inherited some of Vanya’s powers^[5].

As the siblings navigate their individual lives, they begin to realize the need to reunite and address the looming threat posed by their father, Reginald Hargreeves, and his plans for doomsday. Five’s pursuit of Lila and his encounter with The Handler further solidify his suspicions about The Handler’s true intentions and her connection to the Commission^[1][5].

The episode sees a significant moment of family reunion when Five manages to gather all his siblings at Morty’s. Here, they share a heartfelt and emotional moment, particularly between Allison and Vanya, who is excited to have found a sister despite her lack of memory. The siblings bond over their shared experiences and the challenges they face, leading to a night of family bonding at the salon^[5].

Lila, on the other hand, confronts her mother, The Handler, about her true intentions and the lies she has been told. The Handler admits to several deceptions, including those about the Swedes and the Commission’s plans. This confrontation adds layers to Lila’s character and her complex relationship with her mother^[1][3].

Ben, who is invisible to everyone except Klaus, watches his siblings from afar, feeling a mix of joy and isolation. His presence highlights the theme of family and the emotional toll of being disconnected from loved ones^[5].

The episode concludes with Allison approaching Raymond and promising to tell him everything, while Klaus returns to the mansion, surrounded by his followers. These moments set the stage for further character development and plot progression in subsequent episodes^[1][5].

Themes and Symbolism

"Valhalla" delves into several key themes that are central to the series. One of the primary themes is the concept of family and the bonds that tie the Hargreeves siblings together. Despite their differences and the challenges they face, the siblings find solace and strength in each other. This is evident in the emotional reunion at Morty’s and the way they support each other through their personal struggles^[5].

Another significant theme is identity, particularly in the context of Pogo’s backstory and Lila’s confrontation with her mother. These narratives explore the complexities of identity formation and the impact of external forces on one’s sense of self. Pogo’s transformation into a sentient ape raises questions about the ethics of scientific experimentation and the nature of identity, while Lila’s journey highlights the struggle to find one’s place in the world when faced with deception and manipulation^[2][3].

The episode also explores the theme of power and its consequences. The Handler’s manipulations and the Commission’s plans underscore the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of accountability. Vanya’s powers and their impact on Harlan serve as a reminder of the responsibility that comes with power and the potential for both good and harm^[1][5].

Symbolically, the title "Valhalla" refers to the afterlife in Norse mythology, a place where warriors go after death. This title reflects the episode’s focus on mortality, the consequences of actions, and the siblings’ ongoing battle against their destiny. The abandoned warehouse where Five confronts Lila can be seen as a symbol of their isolated and dangerous world, a place where they must confront their demons and make difficult choices^[1][3].

Cultural Impact

"Valhalla" has contributed to the broader cultural impact of "The Umbrella Academy" by deepening the audience’s connection with the characters and their stories. The episode’s complex narrative and character developments have been a subject of discussion among fans, who appreciate the show’s ability to balance action, drama, and emotional depth.

The episode has also influenced pop culture through its unique storytelling and character arcs. The show’s blend of superhero elements with family drama has set a new standard for genre-bending television, inspiring other creators to explore similar themes and narratives.

Critical Reception

"Valhalla" received positive reviews from critics and viewers alike. Critics praised the episode for its emotional depth, character development, and the way it advanced the season’s plot. The reunion scene at Morty’s was particularly highlighted for its emotional impact and the way it brought the siblings together in a meaningful way^[5].

Viewers appreciated the episode’s pacing and the way it balanced multiple plot threads. The performances of the cast were also commended, especially in scenes that required intense emotional delivery. However, some critics noted that the episode’s complexity might make it challenging for new viewers to follow, emphasizing the need for prior knowledge of the series^[5].

Legacy

"Valhalla" is a pivotal episode in "The Umbrella Academy" series, marking a significant turning point in the narrative of Season 2. The episode’s focus on family, identity, and power has contributed to the show’s lasting significance, making it a standout in the genre of superhero dramas.

The emotional reunion of the Hargreeves siblings and the revelations about The Handler’s plans have set the stage for future episodes and seasons, ensuring that the show remains engaging and unpredictable. The episode’s themes and symbolic elements continue to resonate with audiences, making "The Umbrella Academy" a series that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.