HBO’s ‘The Sympathizer’ Episode 3 Review - To Kill Or To Not Kill?

And we are back with another interesting episode of “The Sympathiser”. Without further ado let's delve into what happened in this episode. The Captain found himself burdened with a weighty directive: eliminate Major Oanh, suspected of treasonous acts by the General. Yet, as the narrative unfolds, the truth remains veiled, awaiting revelation in subsequent episodes -whether the Major is actually a culprit or just a suspect. But for now, this particular installment delves into the character of Major Oanh. Pressured by the General's unwavering belief, the Captain stands poised to carry out the fatal deed. However, the gravity of the task weighs heavily upon him, prompting him to seek assistance from Bon.

Observing Bon's meticulous planning and expertise, the Captain uncovers an unexpected revelation — Bon possesses a talent for the art of elimination. Their plotting is abruptly interrupted by the unexpected arrival of Major Oanh's aged mother, a woman of grace and solitude. Inviting the duo into their humble abode, she extends an invitation to her upcoming "longevity celebration."

Amidst covert surveillance of Major Oanh, the Captain stumbles upon a startling discovery — the Major is entangled in a clandestine enterprise not known to others. He clandestinely trades in expired American candies in Vietnam, a dubious endeavor fueled by a desire to adopt a more "American" identity. As the Captain and Bon finalize their plan for Major Oanh's demise, an unforeseen twist unfolds.

Moved by compassion and perhaps a lingering sense of doubt, the Captain elects to postpone their mission momentarily to honor Major Oanh's mother on her 80th birthday. It becomes evident that beneath the Captain's military exterior lies a conscience not yet dulled by the rigors of warfare. Uncertainty shrouds the Captain's resolve; he grapples with the ethical quandary of executing a man whose guilt remains uncertain.

Resolute yet conflicted, the Captain devises an alternative strategy — infiltrating Major Oanh's clandestine business under the guise of an ally. Assuring the Major of secrecy from the prying eyes of the General, the Captain embarks on a clandestine journey, torn between duty and humanity.

Will the Captain ultimately succumb to the demands of duty and extinguish Major Oanh's existence, or will he embrace his humanity and forge an unexpected alliance? The answer lies in the shadows, awaiting illumination in the chapters yet to unfold. And dear reader, this is for you to find out.

"The Sympathizer" captivates its audience with its relentless momentum, ensuring an immersive viewing experience from start to finish. This gripping series delves into the intricate world of espionage, shedding light on the moral quandaries and difficult choices confronting spies. At its core, the show offers a fascinating exploration of the life of a spy, delving into the psychological toll of living a double life and the ethical dilemmas inherent in espionage. As the protagonist navigates the treacherous landscape of espionage, viewers are confronted with the harsh realities of betrayal, loyalty, and sacrifice. Intriguing, suspenseful, and undeniably thought-provoking, "The Sympathizer" stands as a testament to the power of storytelling, captivating audiences with its deft exploration of espionage and its consequences.

Final Score- [8/10]