The Umbrella Academy Season 2: Episode 8 – The Seven Stages

Introduction

The Umbrella Academy, based on the comic book series by Gerard Way and Gabriel Bá, is a Netflix original series that has garnered significant attention for its unique blend of superhero drama, time travel, and family dynamics. The show, created by Steve Blackman, features a talented ensemble cast, including Ellen Page, Tom Hopper, and Aidan Gallagher, among others. Season 2, which premiered in July 2020, continues the story of the Hargreeves siblings as they navigate through time and confront their past and future.

Episode 8, titled "The Seven Stages," is a pivotal installment in the second season, directed by Jeremy Webb and written by Robert Askin and Steve Blackman. This episode stands out for its complex plot twists, character developments, and the exploration of themes such as identity, trust, and the consequences of time travel.

Plot Summary

In "The Seven Stages," the narrative is multifaceted, weaving together several plot threads that escalate the tension and urgency of the Hargreeves siblings’ situation.

The episode opens with Vanya, played by Ellen Page, in a dire situation. She is taken to an FBI office and interrogated under the suspicion of being a Communist threat from Russia. The interrogation is aggressive, and Vanya, stripped of her rights, is forced into a tiny room. Despite her attempts to manipulate sound waves to escape, she is knocked out with chloroform by a nurse before she can harm the agent ^[1][4].

Meanwhile, Five, portrayed by Aidan Gallagher, devises a desperate plan to save his family and restore the timeline. His old plan having failed, Five decides to track down his older self, who had been sent to 1963 on a mission from the Commission to ensure the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Five believes that if he can find his older self, he can obtain his briefcase, which contains the tools necessary to return to their original time and prevent the impending apocalypse. However, this plan comes with a significant risk: being in close proximity to another version of himself could trigger the seven stages of paradox psychosis, a condition that could lead to severe mental instability and even death ^[1][2].

To mitigate this risk, Five enlists Luther’s help as a "spotter" to keep him grounded and focused. The scene where Five meets his older self at an Irish pub is particularly poignant, as it highlights the internal conflict and mistrust between two versions of the same person. The older Five attempts to convince Luther to abandon the plan and kill the younger Five, adding a layer of irony and complexity to their interaction ^[2][5].

Vanya’s storyline takes a dark turn as she is subjected to further torture by the FBI. Her powers, now out of control, lead to a catastrophic event where she kills the FBI agent interrogating her and everyone else on the floor. This incident is linked to Harlan, Sissy’s son, who is somehow connected to Vanya and feels her pain. As Vanya’s memories return, she recalls her role in the 2019 apocalypse, adding a layer of urgency to the siblings’ mission to stop her ^[4].

Diego, Klaus, and Allison find themselves at the FBI building, trying to devise a plan to reach Vanya without succumbing to her uncontrollable powers. Diego’s subplot involves his employment by the Commission, orchestrated by the Handler, who threatens Lila’s life if Diego fails to comply. Diego’s obsession with saving JFK and his involvement with a small rebellion within the Commission add another layer of complexity to the narrative ^[2][4].

The episode culminates with Vanya’s powers spiraling out of control, hinting at the onset of the apocalypse. The Hargreeves siblings are faced with the daunting task of stopping Vanya while navigating their own personal demons and the consequences of their actions in the past.

Themes and Symbolism

"The Seven Stages" delves into several themes that are central to the series. One of the primary themes is the concept of identity and how it is shaped by time and experience. Five’s encounter with his older self highlights the internal conflicts that arise from different life paths and the trust issues that come with them.

Trust is another significant theme, as seen in the relationships between the Hargreeves siblings and their allies. Vanya’s trust issues with Reginald Hargreeves and her siblings are exacerbated by her isolation and the revelation of her past actions. The episode also explores the theme of sacrifice, particularly through Five’s willingness to risk his existence to save the world.

Symbolically, the episode uses the concept of paradox psychosis to illustrate the fragility of the human mind when faced with conflicting realities. The connection between Vanya and Harlan serves as a metaphor for the unintended consequences of powerful actions and the interconnectedness of lives.

Cultural Impact

"The Seven Stages" has had a notable impact on pop culture, particularly within the realm of superhero and science fiction series. The episode’s unique blend of time travel, family drama, and superhero elements has been praised for its originality and complexity. The character dynamics and plot twists have been referenced in various discussions and analyses of the series, contributing to its cult following.

Critical Reception

Critics and viewers alike praised "The Seven Stages" for its engaging narrative, character development, and thematic depth. The episode was lauded for its ability to balance comedy and tragedy, creating a compelling and emotionally resonant viewing experience. However, some critics noted the complexity of the plot as a potential drawback, as it required close attention to detail to fully appreciate the episode’s nuances.

Legacy

"The Seven Stages" remains a significant episode in the series, marking a turning point in the Hargreeves siblings’ journey. Its exploration of complex themes and its innovative storytelling have influenced future episodes and other media within the genre. The episode’s impact on the series’ overall narrative arc is undeniable, setting the stage for the climactic events that unfold in subsequent episodes.