Arrow, ‘Year’s End’

By: Dan

I’ve just had the pleasure of watching the latest episode of Arrow, ‘Year’s End’.

Adam Hunt is killed by a mysterious archer, and Detective Lance deduces that a copycat is at work, but his superior publicly blames the hooded vigilante. Oliver plans a Christmas party at the mansion to bring back the spirit of the holidays to his family, which has been sorely lacking in his 5 years away, to which Tommy invites Laurel (which is awkward at first, but after a discussion between Oliver and Laurel, it becomes less so). A flashback shows Yao Fei capture Edward Fyers, who tells Oliver that the island was a prison for dangerous criminals and that his unit was tasked to exterminate the prisoners, including Yao Fei. Yao Fei is captured by Fyers’s men while leading Oliver to a possible escape from the island.

In the present, Oliver saves some hostages from the mysterious archer, and the two archers injure each other after fighting (and Oliver’s blood is spilled at the scene – that may be significant in the future). The mysterious archer gets away but is revealed to be Malcolm Merlyn, Tommy’s father. Walter is kidnapped by one of Malcolm’s associates to ensure Moira’s compliance, while Malcolm’s organizations plans for the city will be complete within 6 months. While recovering in the hospital, Oliver swears to take down the man he believes is behind the archer and the list.

It was another strong episode, and a great way to end the first half of the season. There was some great new character growth, and some interesting developments. I can’t wait to find out how they’re going to continue with the Merlyn story, how Oliver will seek his revenge, and how Yao Fei escapes capture on the island (and whether Oliver helps).

Thanks for reading.