Paean to the People

It is true that one of the main characters dropping out at the end of last season did suggest a bit loss, however the season was decent enough that I continue to come back to Homeland. It is pretty impressive in a couple of ways. Firstly it is good to be reminded how the show started - a bit of a gimmick in the narrative perhaps, and a main character with limited stuff you could do with him. It used this and moved past this well. It is also impressive that Carrie's mental challenges did not get old. At times it does feel like it is looking for a reason to be on, but mostly it produces good television.

This is the case with the seventh season; in that it is good television, albeit not appointment television (a phrase that reveals my age a bit). The timely nature of it adds some value to the plotting; a president on the defensive, a foreign power trying to influence and undermine, an increasing political polarization etc. The show has always felt like it is managing to be a small step ahead of headlines and it does it again here. With this as the base, it turns in a fairly decent plot which mostly works. Some threads feel like tidying up from previous seasons, but mostly it fits together and moves forward as a whole. The ending of the season is a bit muted but it works.

The thing that this season does better is to blend in Carrie as a person. In the past the show has done this badly (like the sudden change of pace at the end of S4) or integrated it into the plot as a plot device. In this case though it feels like it stands on its own, and merges into the season rather than feeling like the season happens to this aspect of her life. This makes Carrie a difficult character again this season, but this is part of her appeal and Danes works that well.

All told, it is another solid season which holds together well; although truth be told I'm fine with the idea that S8 is the chance to bring it all to a close.

High quality storyline. Superb acting.

The show is so good when they're out in the field. Hopefully there is less glorification of the Oval Office next series.

The acting is top notch across the boards. Claire Daines is outstanding in many of this season's episodes. The writing is top notch. Various plot surprises come into play, especially in the last two episodes. If you have followed Homeland all along I predict you will find this season very satisfying. It was for me.

"Paean to the People" serves as a powerful and fitting conclusion to Homeland's seventh season, wrapping up the intricate and intense narrative with both resolution and open-ended questions. The episode opens with Carrie in the midst of her most dangerous mission yet, as she works to expose the full extent of the conspiracy against President Keane. Her actions bring her face-to-face with powerful adversaries and force her to confront the personal and professional sacrifices she has made. Meanwhile, Saul's efforts to support Carrie and counter Keane's administration reach a critical juncture, as he must decide between loyalty to his friend and duty to his country. Keane herself faces a reckoning as the political and personal fallout of her actions come to a head.

A standout scene is Carrie's climactic confrontation with the mastermind behind the conspiracy, a tense and emotionally charged encounter that brings the season's central conflict to a dramatic peak. The raw intensity of the moment, coupled with the high stakes, makes it a highlight of the series. Another memorable moment is Saul's strategic maneuvering to rally support and bring about change within the government, showcasing his diplomatic acumen and deep commitment to justice. Themes of redemption, sacrifice, and the quest for truth are central to this episode, providing a rich and satisfying conclusion to the season.

Directed by Lesli Linka Glatter, "Paean to the People" is a masterfully crafted episode that balances high-stakes action with deep emotional resonance. The script by Alex Gansa is tightly written, weaving together the season's multiple plotlines with skill and precision. The cinematography captures the tension and urgency of the unfolding events, using dramatic lighting and dynamic camera angles to heighten the impact. Editing is particularly effective, ensuring a smooth narrative flow and maintaining suspense throughout. The pacing is well-executed, allowing for both intense action sequences and quieter, reflective moments. The primary strength of "Paean to the People" lies in its ability to provide a satisfying conclusion to the season's complex narrative while leaving room for future exploration, though some viewers might find the resolution of certain plot points too convenient.

Overall, these final episodes of Homeland's seventh season effectively blend political intrigue with personal drama, providing a rich and compelling narrative. The direction, script, and performances are consistently strong, ensuring that the series remains engaging and thought-provoking. The exploration of themes such as power, trust, and the personal cost of political maneuvering adds depth and complexity to the unfolding story, making these episodes standout entries in the series.

Once again the series pivots from Islamist terrorism to Russian interference in American politics, and they did a great job with it.