In Review: Gen V (S2 – Ep5) The Kids Are Not All Right

Synopsis: In The Kids Are Not Alright, the team embarks on a dangerous mission to rescue Cate from the infamous Elmira Institute. The episode explores the complexities of their relationships and the trials they face in a world dominated by powerful and morally ambiguous forces.

The Story

Picking up from last week’s events, Marie and Jordan have fought each other to fulfill their obligation to Cipher, but their plan to get the better of him has failed, and as a result, Cate has been incarcerated at the Elmira Institute for her role in the scheme. Cipher, still holding the upper hand, tries to pressure Marie into cooperating so they can uncover the full extent of her powers, but she resists.

Instead, Marie, Jordan, and Emma devise a plan to rescue Cate, only to end up captured themselves. Later, Cipher visits Marie at the Institute and reveals that he has her sister in his custody, attempting to use her as leverage. Marie, unsurprisingly, is not impressed.

Meanwhile, Cipher continues his clandestine involvement with Sister Sage, further showing just how far he will go to manipulate those around him. Back at his estate, he is also administering mysterious treatments to a man hidden in a secret room, a reminder of just how much control and power he wields.

Elsewhere, Sam returns home to visit his parents for the first time in years, hoping to learn more about his past. However, the visit takes a turn for the worse when he accidentally hurts his father.

Back at the Institute, Cate manages to launch an escape attempt—but things are not as they seem.

Acting

The Kids Are Not Alright features some solid acting performances throughout. The scenes between Jaz Sinclair’s Marie and Hamish Linklater’s Cipher are packed with tension, with the moment where Cipher reveals he has Marie’s sister standing out as one of the episode’s dramatic high points. Asa Germann also delivers a strong performance as Sam; his scenes visiting his parents effectively highlight his character’s vulnerability, as well as his personal struggle with anger and fear of rejection.

Overall

This was another strong episode that built on the mystery and storylines established in the opening episode. I particularly enjoyed the addition of Sister Sage and can’t help but wonder what implications Cipher’s relationship with her will have in future episodes.