Ep 5. Mercy

Bea Smith continues to rule with an iron fist as the new top dog at Wentworth Correctional Centre. However, she finds herself facing a challenge she never saw coming in Season 3, Episode 5, “Mercy.” The episode delves into the moral complexities that come with prison life as Bea is forced to confront her own sense of justice and mercy.

“Mercy” opens with the arrival of a new prisoner, Kim Chang, who is quickly revealed to be a former associate of Bea’s former husband. Bea sees an opportunity to potentially gain information about her husband and is determined to get it from Kim by any means necessary. However, as the episode progresses, Bea begins to have second thoughts about her tactics.

Meanwhile, the staff at Wentworth, namely Vera and Will, are dealing with their own moral dilemmas. Vera, who has been struggling to prove herself to the new governor, is given an ultimatum by her superior: either get rid of Bea or risk losing her job. Will, on the other hand, is grappling with his feelings for prisoner Kaz Proctor while trying to maintain his professional duties.

As tensions continue to rise at Wentworth, the inmates themselves are also dealing with their own internal conflicts. Franky, still reeling from her recent heartbreak, finds herself turning to an unlikely ally for comfort. Liz struggles to maintain a friendship with Doreen, who is increasingly being ostracized by the other prisoners. And Boomer, who is understandably distraught over her mother’s cancer diagnosis, is in danger of unraveling completely.

“Mercy” explores the lengths that people will go to in order to get what they want, whether it be information, power, or love. Bea, who has always prided herself on her ability to be ruthless, begins to realize that there are consequences to her actions. The episode also highlights the fact that even in prison, people aren’t just one-dimensional criminals. They have their own fears, desires, and weaknesses that make them human.

The episode features standout performances from Danielle Cormack as Bea, who showcases her range as an actress by conveying subtle shifts in emotion throughout the episode. Nicole da Silva also shines as Franky, playing the character with a mix of vulnerability and strength. Other standout performances include those from Celia Ireland as Liz and Kate Atkinson as Vera.

“Mercy” is an intense and emotionally charged episode that will leave viewers thinking about the moral complexities of life in prison long after the credits roll. With its well-written script, excellent cast, and nuanced exploration of human nature, Wentworth continues to be one of the best shows on television.