“XV,” the concluding episode of The Old Man’s second season, ends with a fizzle rather than a bang, leaving a sense of unfulfilled potential. While the episode clearly sets up a possible third season, the path taken to reach that point feels underwhelming and contrived. The action is disappointingly sparse, a central character is underutilized, and another undergoes a sudden, unconvincing shift into a potential antagonist.
The episode opens with Parwana (Alia Shawkat), absent since episode 5, taking control after a familial loss. Her manipulation of her Russian captors, while demonstrating her cunning, feels somewhat disconnected from the main narrative thread. The ensuing escape, though visually striking, lacks the intended dramatic weight.
Julian (Gbenga Akinnagbe), largely missing this season, finally gets his moment, dispatching Pavlovich’s men with ruthless efficiency. This action sequence, while satisfying on a visceral level, feels somewhat obligatory, serving more as a nod to fans than a crucial plot point.
The episode’s most significant misstep involves Zoe (Amy Brenneman). Her baffling decision to rush off and rescue Chase (Jeff Bridges) alone, leaving the highly capable Julian behind, strains credibility. This contrived scenario undercuts her character’s intelligence and serves only to create an artificial obstacle.
After Chase’s rescue, the narrative retreats to a quiet safe house. This tranquil interlude, where Chase and Zoe contemplate an uncertain future, is interrupted by a mysterious phone call, a plot device that feels forced and sets the stage for the episode’s unsatisfying resolution.
The final scene reveals Parwana as the orchestrator of the call, now positioned as a possible adversary. Her directive that Chase resurrect a past identity, “Lou Barlow,” a name that clearly disturbs him, feels abrupt and unearned. The arrival of FBI vehicles, intended to demonstrate Parwana’s newfound power, comes across as heavy-handed and clichéd.
Overall, “XV” fails to capitalize on the season’s earlier momentum. The episode’s clumsy plotting, underdeveloped character arcs, and weak climax leave viewers with a sense of disappointment. The cliffhanger, while hinting at a potential third season, does little to mitigate the letdown of this lackluster finale.
The Old Man is an FX production.
