Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Top Ten Cases: Favorite Lost Finale Scenes - #10


10. Team Jack and Team “Locke” confront each other




This relatively insignificant scene may seem a bit out of place given the enormity of the two and a half hour finale, but it’s one that truly sticks with me as we look back at the episode with a certain level of perspective. As I noted in my Revisited column, I loved the wide spectrum of emotions it hit. It started out with a certain twisted lightness, having Kate grab Sawyer’s rifle before shooting somewhat recklessly at an unfazed Locke Ness Monster, forcing Desmond and Ben to simultaneously dive for cover. But despite the amusing visual, Kate’s actions reminded us of the very somber reality that two people she loved and cared for are dead. It’s easy to criticize Lost (or perhaps the characters) for being somewhat lackadaisical about some of their losses – Hell, Sun had to remind everybody that they should bury Locke’s dead body – but this scene did a great job of reminding everybody that, yes, these people DO care that Jin and Sun are dead.

But upon later viewings of the scene, I must say the real highlight is the interaction between Jack and Smokey. Once again, I loved the range of emotions their brief conversation hit, and their metaphoric tug of war was rather brilliant. You had Locke using his subtle intimidation, reminding Jack that he’s but a young pup in this eternal struggle. Conversely, you had Jack exuding humble confidence. He didn’t know HOW he was going to win, he just knew he would. And just like the literal and proverbial balance scale this season has centered on, the weight continually shifted as the discussion wore on. And as the advantage changed, the tone shifted accordingly. Locke, in particular, went from nonchalant, to annoyed, to argumentative, to aggressive.

Mechanically, this was a fun little scene that bridged the two groups’ journal to their climatic battle. But it did more than that – the scene really did prepare you for the wide range of emotions the viewer would experience while watching the finale.


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