Ep 11. The Boy Must Live

As the penultimate episode of the final season of Fringe, "The Boy Must Live" delivers on both the nostalgia and the tension fans have come to expect. The episode picks up with the team still trying to find a way to stop the Observers from taking over the world. Walter decides to take matters into his own hands and makes an impulsive decision that could have disastrous consequences. Meanwhile, Olivia and Peter are dealing with the aftermath of a major revelation and struggling to come to terms with what it means for their future.

One of the standout elements of this episode is the return of several beloved characters from earlier seasons. This includes September, the Observer who has had a complicated relationship with the team throughout the series. His presence adds a layer of poignancy, as we see how much he has evolved since the early days of the show. Another welcome return is that of Nina Sharp, who was a key player in the earlier seasons but had been absent for much of the final season until now. These characters add depth to the show's mythology and remind us of how far we've come since the beginning.

One of the most fascinating aspects of "The Boy Must Live" is the way it delves deeper into the backstory of the Observers. We learn more about their origins and the role they played in shaping the future. This backstory is presented through a series of flashbacks that are both illuminating and emotionally resonant. We also get a better sense of just how high the stakes are in this conflict. The actions of our heroes could have consequences that ripple throughout time and space.

This episode is also notable for the way it grapples with some weighty philosophical questions. What is the nature of free will? Can we change our destiny, or are we fated to follow a predetermined path? These questions have been at the heart of the show's themes since the beginning, and they continue to be explored right up until the end. The way these existential questions intersect with the more personal dramas of the characters makes for some of the show's most compelling storytelling.

As always, the performances in "The Boy Must Live" are top-notch. John Noble continues to be a standout as Walter, bringing equal parts humor, heart, and pathos to his performance. Joshua Jackson and Anna Torv also deserve praise for the way they handle the emotional complexity of their scenes. In particular, there's a quiet moment towards the end of the episode that is sure to resonate with fans.

Overall, "The Boy Must Live" is an excellent episode that sets the stage for what promises to be an epic finale. With its mix of action, emotion, and mythology, it delivers everything fans could want from a penultimate episode. Whether you've been a fan since day one or you're coming to the show for the first time, this episode is sure to leave you eager to see how it all ends.