48. The Americans 3x6, ”Born Again”

Oh boy, lots of baptism/bible/church talk in this episode - for Season 3 Episode 6 of The Americans, “Born Again,” Danielle and John are back on their own, and focused on the theme of new beginnings and rebirth as it weaves its way through this intense episode of TV. After unpacking the baptism scene (including Danielle’s questions about Buddy Christ), your hosts consider the parallel conversations and situations between Elizabeth and Paige alongside Philip as Jim and Kimmy. They laugh at Philip’s use of prayer to placate Kimmy, but also consider the intimacy of the interaction at the same time. After they debate the speed at which the stoner giggles descended on our main characters, they consider Gabriel’s role as chief manipulator, and contemplate the ellipses left by Hans/Elizabeth’s discovery. After a quick check-in on Martha and Tori in the Dossier, John and Danielle tackle Stan and Nina in Glas. They reward ‘KGB Woman’ Minor Character of the Week, a silent but solid performance, before taking up Pastor Tim’s invitation to consider the consequences of action in the Cave with none other than Hannah Arendt. Don’t worry, John has a great TheoryShip, and your hosts don’t miss a chance to highlight Sandi and Matthew’s impeccable 80s fashion sense.