Ep 10. The Last Ceremony

In The Handmaid's Tale season 2 episode 10, titled "The Last Ceremony," the tension in Gilead has reached an all-time high. The episode picks up right where the previous one left off, with Offred (Elisabeth Moss) being escorted out of the Waterfords' house by Nick (Max Minghella) and the Guardians after she reveals she is pregnant.

As Offred is taken away, we see the fallout of her confession play out. Serena Joy (Yvonne Strahovski) is furious, as the baby is obviously not her husband's, and she blames Offred for ruining everything. Meanwhile, Fred Waterford (Joseph Fiennes) is worried about the potential backlash from the other Commanders if they learn that his Wife is unable to conceive.

As the episode progresses, we see Offred preparing for the ceremony - the monthly ritual where she is forced to have sex with Fred in an attempt to conceive a child. But this time, things are different. While Serena is present, as she always is, she is visibly shaken by the revelation of Offred's pregnancy. And when it becomes clear that the baby is coming sooner than expected, tensions rise even higher.

Throughout "The Last Ceremony," we also get glimpses into the broader workings of Gilead. We see how the regime uses fear and violence to maintain control, as well as the way it manipulates religion to justify its actions. There are several scenes where characters discuss the role they play in this world and whether they are truly doing what is right.

As the episode approaches its climax, the tension becomes almost unbearable. We see Offred and June (her real name, before she became a Handmaid) grappling with the reality of their situation and the terrifying possibility that they may never escape. And when the ceremony finally takes place, it is both brutal and heartbreaking.

Overall, "The Last Ceremony" is an intense, emotional episode that highlights the darkest aspects of Gilead and the toll it takes on its citizens. It is a testament to the strength of the show's writing and acting that even in its most harrowing moments, The Handmaid's Tale manages to hold our attention and leave us wanting more.