This is the episode that displays Nikita‘s first signs of greatness. It’s a gripping and emotionally draining hour that puts our characters through the ringer and shows just how raw and grim Nikita can get.
Nikita and Owen’s rapport is fantastic; both ruthless and cold after being royally screwed by Division. Devon Sawa & Maggie Q are just superb together and they make the episode’s climax (Owen revealing that he killed Daniel) a superbly realized gem of a scene. As Maggie broke down for the first time in the series’ run and Owen coldly recounted the details of the murder, Nikita cemented itself as a complex show and more than a run-of-the-mill action series
And now the highlight of the hour: Alex. This hour really proved how Alex’s storyline could be just as if not more engrossing than Nikita’s arc. As a character, she’s truly intriguing on practically every level. I loved the recruits getting kidnapped only for it turn out to be a Division exercise. It really demonstrated Alex’s resilience and resourcefulness.
Moreover, an excellent dynamic was added to the Nikita-Alex relationship with the reveal that Nikki saved her protege after Division killed her parents. The flashbacks were just beautiful, particularly with Nikki revealing her guilt for Alex being sold into the sex trade and giving her money to start over. The final flashback with Alex joining Nikita’s fight was also outstanding and goosebump-worthy.
Finally, I’m not entirely sure how the writers want us to feel about Michael and Alex at this point in the show. I don’t want to spoil any future episodes for those who are watching for the first time but it’s not very clear if they’re painting them in a romantic way or with a brother/sister dynamic. For the record, I’m definitely for the latter. There’s no place for love triangles on this show.
Bits & Bullets
– Love the whole sequence with Owen choking Nikita with his legs, her stabbing him, and then his slinging it straight at her. They’re both so vicious.
– Watching Alex scream out in agony is beyond heartbreaking. And yet, Lyndsey Fonseca remains gorgeous through it all.
– It’s captivating just how eager Amanda is to break Alex and discover the truth. It makes her such a compelling antagonist (and as I’ve said before, much scarier than Percy).
– Epic scene as Alex kills her captor and escapes the compound. What a badass.
– Maggie breaking down (with that haunting score no less) was heart-wrenching to watch.
– Perfect moment as Alex runs towards Nikita only for Michael to intercept her. Darn, so close.
– So it was also a test for Michael then? Hmm… interesting.
Nikki Notables
Owen: I’m naked.
Nikita: And observant.
Owen: Got anything to eat?
Nikita: Well I don’t have any meat to throw at you, but I do make a mean veggie shake.
Alex: (To Nikita) Hey. The door wasn’t locked. Not very spy-like of you.
Alex: They killed my parents. This is my fight too.
Conclusion
Thrilling and poignant, Resistance is Nikita‘s best episode yet. Marvelous.
Nad Rating
A-
Wow, definitely agreed. Best episode yet!! Alex's entire plot, being captured only having it be a test by Division, was amazing to watch. There is literally NEVER a boring moment on this show and I'm going crazy over how gripping it is at every minute!
Also, Lyndsey Fonseca and Maggie Q are just so stunning, right?! Gotta admit I teared up when Nikita broke down after finding out Owen was the one who killed Daniel. What a great twist that adds more complexity to their dynamics.
I too felt some chemistry between Michael and Alex! A love triangle is DEFINITELY not something that would suit this show…and yet on the other hand, it would be another intriguing development. I'm not sure about this one yet, mainly because I still think Michael is the least interesting character on the show so far. Can't get over how forced some of his scenes are.
I don't remember the last time a show started off so good, so soon! Dark Angel? Alias? Episode 7, here I come 😀