Ep 5. Smite

As the second season of Sons of Anarchy unfolds, we find the club facing down a myriad of foes from all sides. The latest episode, titled “Smite,” sees the club further entangled in their intricate web of criminal activity as tensions and resentments simmer just beneath the surface.

“Smite” opens with the Sons gearing up for a run into Oakland to sell black market guns to a powerful gang. The perilous deal is brokered by none other than Clay’s estranged wife, Gemma, whose relationship with the club is growing more complicated by the day. Before they even leave for Oakland, however, trouble is brewing in Charming.

The episode explores the relationships between the characters in depth, as allegiances are tested and loyalties are strained. Jax struggles to balance the demands of his family - both his blood and his brothers in the club - while Clay must navigate the tricky waters of his complicated relationships with both Gemma and his stepson Jax. Meanwhile, Tig finds himself haunted by his own demons as he grapples with the consequences of his actions from the previous season.

As with any episode of Sons of Anarchy, violence is never far from the surface. “Smite” sees the Sons engaged in several brutal confrontations, with the lives of several members hanging in the balance. This includes a particularly harrowing scene featuring Tig that stands out as one of the most intense moments of the series so far.

Despite the heavy focus on violence, however, the heart of “Smite” lies in the emotional complexities of the characters. The episode delves into the depths of their psyches, exploring themes of guilt, regret, and the weight of past decisions. In many ways, “Smite” feels like a turning point for the series - the point at which the events of the last season truly come to a head and the characters are forced to confront the consequences of their actions.

The writing is as top-notch as ever, with the dialogue crackling with tension and wit. Every scene feels tightly crafted, with each moment building towards the inevitable conclusion. The acting is similarly impressive, with each member of the ensemble cast turning in excellent performances. Charlie Hunnam continues to anchor the proceedings as Jax, bringing depth and nuance to a character who could easily have just been another stock antihero. Ron Perlman is similarly impressive as Clay, imbuing the character with a mixture of charm and menace.

Of course, it wouldn’t be Sons of Anarchy without a healthy dose of sex and drugs. “Smite” certainly delivers on that front, with multiple scenes featuring drugs, alcohol, and various forms of illicit behavior. While these elements can occasionally feel gratuitous, they ultimately serve to further enhance the gritty, dangerous world the club inhabits.

In conclusion, “Smite” is an intense and emotionally rich episode of Sons of Anarchy that further cements its status as one of the most compelling dramas on television. While it may be too violent for some viewers, fans of the series will be left eagerly anticipating what comes next.