The Jennings catch up with a new (sort of) handler and Paige learns about some of her mother's past.
This is another episode consisting of mostly character drama, but as always the interaction and dialogue between the characters is excellent.
Although I still feel a sense of dread for what might be heading the way of certain characters, the suspense that existed in series 1 - 4 is gone. I don't have a problem with this because a huge wave of tension was surging through the show until a considerable way through series 4 when it crashed. Since then the wave has rolled back and we're in calmer waters. It feels to me like a much needed bit of breathing space to observe the characters in less stressful circumstances. If series 5 presented poorly made 'filler' episodes my patience would be wearing thing by now, but it's not and this one is no exception.
It is full of strong psychological scenes that reveal more interesting information about the characters on screen. The dialogue between Elizabeth and Paige is an example, likewise the behaviour of Phillip and Elizabeth towards their latest 'marks'. Even Stan's cautious handling of his latest source feels laced with the memory of Nina.
All that being said, the scenes in Russia are quite tense and considering how arrogant Oleg came across during his introduction to series, he feels to me like the most likeable character on the show now. If anything this series has got me very invested in what becomes of him.
All production values are excellent as ever and the performances are solid, particularly from the two main stars.
