In "Mass in Time of War," the Roy family gathers in an isolated vacation home to strategize their next move in the wake of Kendall's public betrayal. The episode is much more introspective than the season premiere, as it delves into the emotional fallout of the family's fractured relationships. Kendall, now firmly positioned as a corporate insurgent, reaches out to his siblings once again, trying to convince them to join his coup against Logan. The episode's title, which alludes to a state of conflict during a time of upheaval, perfectly encapsulates the themes of loyalty, power, and survival that run throughout.
The tension between the siblings is palpable, as they are all torn between their loyalty to their father and their own ambitions. Sarah Snook's Shiv is particularly compelling in this episode, as she grapples with the moral implications of siding with either Kendall or Logan. Shiv's arc in this episode is filled with nuance, as she weighs her options and considers what is best for her own future. Roman, played by Kieran Culkin, provides a lighter, yet still poignant counterbalance, as he tries to navigate the situation with his trademark cynicism and humor. The writing expertly balances these character dynamics, making the family's internal struggles feel as high-stakes as the corporate drama.
One of the standout scenes of the episode is a tense family meeting, where Kendall tries to convince his siblings to stage a full-on revolt. The writing is sharp, with biting exchanges that lay bare the complex, often toxic relationships within the family. The direction here is tight, with close-up shots that capture the intensity of the moment, as each sibling considers their next move. Kendall's desperation is evident, but so is his newfound sense of purpose, as he tries to cast himself as the hero in this power struggle. Meanwhile, Logan, though absent from much of the episode, looms large in the background, pulling strings and biding his time.
The cinematography in "Mass in Time of War" enhances the claustrophobic atmosphere of the Roy family's gathering. The isolated setting, coupled with the dark, moody lighting, creates a sense of foreboding that hangs over the entire episode. The pacing is slower than the premiere, allowing for more character-driven moments that explore the emotional toll of the family's rift. The editing is precise, cutting between moments of familial tension and scenes of the Roys' legal team trying to manage the corporate crisis. In the end, the episode leaves the audience with a sense of dread, as the family's internal war shows no signs of abating.
