Ep 5. The Hanged Man

In Season 2, Episode 5 of Strange Angel, titled "The Hanged Man," the occult drama continues to unfold in the life of Jack Parsons, a brilliant but tormented scientist, as he delves deeper into the world of the supernatural and its implications.

The episode opens with Jack grappling with a series of setbacks in both his personal and professional life. His relationship with his wife, Susan, remains strained, as her resentment towards his devotion to Thelema and his mentor, occultist Aleister Crowley, grows. Meanwhile, his groundbreaking rocketry work at Caltech faces myriad obstacles, leaving him frustrated and with wavering confidence in his dreams of reaching outer space.

Seeking advice and solace, Jack turns to Richard Onsted, a fellow Thelemite and member of the notorious Agape Lodge. Richard, portrayed as a sinister character with his own agenda, becomes an unlikely ally and offers Jack guidance on how to navigate the intricate web of secrets and power within their occult circle.

As Jack becomes more entrenched in the occult world, his involvement with the Agape Lodge intensifies. Through the Agape Lodge's secretive rituals, Jack believes he can harness supernatural forces to aid him in his quest for scientific advancement. The episode explores the blurred lines between science and mysticism, as Jack's unwavering belief in the power of ritual and magic clashes with the rationality of his scientific peers.

Amidst these inner conflicts, Jack encounters a mysterious woman named Marisol. Their chance meeting ignites a passionate affair that provides him with a temporary escape from his tumultuous existence. However, as their relationship deepens, it becomes clear that Marisol harbors her own secrets, leading Jack even further into a complex world of manipulation and deceit.

"The Hanged Man" also delves into the lives of other key characters. Susan, feeling increasingly isolated and overlooked, embarks on her own journey of self-discovery. Dissatisfied with the limitations placed on her as a woman in the 1930s, she courageously explores her desires and ambitions outside of her conventional marriage.

Additionally, the episode explores the strained dynamic between Jack's close friend, Richard, and his overbearing father. Richard's desire to break free from the oppressive influence of his father sets the stage for a dramatic clash between tradition and rebellion.

As the episode progresses, tensions rise, secrets are revealed, and allegiances are tested. "The Hanged Man" offers viewers a captivating glimpse into the intricate web of occultism, science, and personal desire that defines the lives of the complex characters in Strange Angel.

With its blend of supernatural intrigue, historical context, and complex character development, Season 2, Episode 5 of Strange Angel, "The Hanged Man" promises to be a compelling chapter in the gripping tale of Jack Parsons' journey into the unknown.