The next episode of 12 Monkeys, “Atari,” was directed by David Grossman and was written by the team of Terry Matalas and Travis Fickett. It’s a tightly written and action-packed episode. Most of the episode takes place in the future as the compound comes under attack. Cassie (Amanda Schull) bookends the episode, and while we don’t see much of her in the episode, she is nonetheless very busy in the present.
Cassie wants to know more about Cole (Aaron Stanford). Cassie doesn’t get to learn much, but instead of time travel, we get flashbacks to 2032. Cole does tell Cassie that she reminds him of Ramse (Kirk Acevedo). We get to see a lot more of the relationship between Ramse and Cole. The episode explores how Cole and Ramse came to know Deacon (Todd Stashwick) and Max (Romina D’Ugo). Stashwick is terrific as the Scavenger King.
The “flashbacks” and the “present” future scenes paint a very bleak picture of what the future holds. It's a world that is morally challenging as it’s a dog eat dog existence. In the 2032 timeline, Cole is given an impossible assignment.
There is also some time travel thrown into the mix. It’s fascinating to watch the jigsaw of time fit together as the episode unfolds. Jones (Barbara Sukowa) remains focused on the mission, but time travel is still an inexact science at best… especially under pressure.
And just for fun, here are two lines from the episode that I really liked – see if you can guess who said them!
“Atari is bad.”
“Beating on you is really just for me.”
Don’t forget to tune in to “Atari”
Friday night, January 6, at 9pm on Syfy. If you missed the last episode, there’s an encore presentation of “Cassandra Complex” on at 8pm.
About the Author - Lisa Macklem
I do interviews and write articles for the site in addition to reviewing a number of shows, including Supernatural, Arrow, Agents of Shield, The Walking Dead, Game of Thrones, Forever, Defiance, Bitten, Glee, and a few others! Highlights of this past year include covering San Diego Comic Con as press and a set visit to Bitten. When I'm not writing about television shows, I'm often writing about entertainment and media law in my capacity as a legal scholar. I also work in theatre when the opportunity arises. I'm an avid runner and rider, currently training in dressage.
