Ep 7. Wallflower

Fringe season 4 episode 7, titled "Wallflower," takes the viewers on an emotional journey as the team investigates a case of spontaneous combustion that connects to a young girl named Emily Mallum. Emily attends a high school and is extremely introverted, and has no friends except for a mysterious and invisible friend that she calls Wes.

As the team delves deeper into Emily's case, they soon discover that her imaginary friend is not imaginary at all but a physically manifested form of her repressed emotions. Emily is suffering from a rare condition known as hyper-empathy, which means she can feel the emotional pain of others around her and eventually internalizes it, which can result in her bursting into flames.

Meanwhile, Olivia and Lincoln investigate a separate case that ultimately leads to the discovery of a new shapeshifter, now working on behalf of David Robert Jones. During the course of these events, pivotal changes take place that affect the future of key characters in multiple ways as they come to terms with the people they are, as well as the people they aspire to be.

"Wallflower" is a thought-provoking episode that taps into emotions such as guilt, remorse, and powerlessness, while also providing clues and mysteries that tie into the overarching plot. The twists and turns are satisfying enough to keep fans engaged, and the characterizations are impressive. Emily Mallum is a standout, and her story will pull at your heartstrings.

John Noble's Walter Bishop is giving one of his best performances in "Wallflower," capturing the darkness and nuance of his character while staying true to his good-hearted persona, proving to be as complex and interesting as always. Anna Torv's Olivia Dunham is also in excellent form, showcasing her leadership qualities, intelligence, and empathetic nature.

Additionally, the cinematography and special effects work are noteworthy as they bring to life the fiery scenes and breathtaking moments of sheer human emotion. The soundtrack is atmospheric, perfectly capturing the melancholic mood of the episode.

While the episode does not provide any long-awaited answers of many burning questions surrounding the show's mythos, it does contribute to the bigger picture of the narrative and delivers an emotionally charged episode that is equal parts captivating and suspenseful.

In conclusion, "Wallflower" is a fantastic addition to the show's rich and complex canon, one that will leave fans anxious and excited for what comes next. It showcases the show's brilliant storytelling and superb cast and crew, cementing its place as a must-watch of the season.