Fair Game

"Fair Game," the premiere of Homeland's sixth season, finds Carrie Mathison in a new setting: New York City. Having left behind her life in Berlin, Carrie is now working for a foundation that provides aid to Muslims in the United States. The episode opens with Carrie adjusting to her new role while still grappling with the psychological scars of her past. As the U. S. prepares for a presidential transition, tensions rise within the intelligence community. Saul Berenson and Dar Adal are embroiled in the political machinations surrounding the incoming president-elect, Elizabeth Keane. Meanwhile, Peter Quinn, who survived his ordeal in Berlin, is now struggling with severe physical and psychological trauma, adding a layer of complexity to the narrative.

The most memorable scene in this episode is Carrie's heartfelt interaction with Quinn, who is living in a state of disarray and grappling with his PTSD. The depth of their bond is palpable, showcasing the series' commitment to character-driven storytelling. Another significant moment is Saul and Dar Adal's confrontation about the new administration's direction, which sets the stage for the season's political intrigue. Themes of trust, recovery, and the shifting nature of political power are central to this episode, providing a rich foundation for the unfolding story.

Directed by Keith Gordon, "Fair Game" effectively re-establishes the series' tone and stakes. The script, penned by Alex Gansa and Howard Gordon, is sharp and introspective, delving into the personal and political landscapes that will shape the season. The cinematography captures the bustling, tense atmosphere of New York, contrasting sharply with the characters' internal struggles. Editing is seamless, particularly in scenes that juxtapose the calm exterior of Carrie's new life with the chaotic undertones of Quinn's condition and the political drama. The pacing is deliberate, allowing viewers to reacquaint themselves with the characters while setting up the season's major conflicts. While the episode is somewhat slow in terms of action, its strength lies in its character development and thematic depth.

First I had hoped I'd live long enough to see the first woman president as I did the first black president. So at its core I don't care that the President in the show is a woman. I just have to wonder if this President is a woman because it was expected the Hilary Clinton would become President.

What's interesting is that in many ways the politics portrayed are more akin to Trump than what would have been done as Clinton. So if that part of the stroyline is done because of politics I hate it.

Having said all that, the ep for the start of a new season is as most other reviews say very so-so. Largely I think that was so it could start too many storylines. I think they tried to start too many stories in one ep and it caused it to crash mostly because the stories were subpar. Having already seen the season before, it does get better, but this was a hey batter batter swing and a miss.

Tonight - close to new years'celebrations I was expecting some "fire-works" to wake up the old man's body in the premier. Suppose they'll follow later. However, it's a comfort that Homeland is like it always have been, and will remain for may seasons to come. :) Anyhow - as an 80+ Swedish admirer of Homeland for decades, one is used to be disappointed by first episodes of every season - but stays, spell-bound, to the bitter ends... Greetings for 2017, h@nsO'Norin,80+(på S.H.)- Southern-Heights of Stockholm. PS. - What magic trick will they try (this season?) to bring back BRODY to life? AND - Shall Saul stand up to "THE END" -??

There's nothing in this episode that tells you what to expect from this season, this is the weakest opening episode in the entire series. I was expecting something spectacular after the somewhat disappointing finale of the last season. Hope the next episode will pick up the pace.

Very bad comparing to previous seasons. Politically correct on expense of quality and releability.