Embracing the Sunshine: A Glimpse of Hope in Pluribus

After many trials and tribulations, things are finally starting to look up for Carol in the second to last episode of Pluribus’ inaugural season. Surprisingly, Carol, portrayed by Rhea Seehorn, appears to be genuinely happy. This is a significant development for a character who has been labeled as the “most miserable person on Earth” and is currently embroiled in an apocalyptic situation that she is fervently trying to prevent. But what implications does this change in her demeanor have for the show as it hurtles towards its conclusion?

This article is part of our weekly discussion for Verge subscribers focusing on Pluribus, the innovative sci-fi series on Apple TV created by Breaking Bad’s Vince Gilligan. The narrative revolves around Carol, one of the few remaining “survivors” on Earth following a mysterious virus outbreak that has turned the rest of humanity into a connected hive mind. While the hive exudes joy, Carol remains despondent, leading to a series of dramatic events. Each week, I present a selection of queries from the latest episode to spark dialogue, so feel free to share your own insights, theories, and questions in the comments section. As we near the conclusion, be aware that spoilers for the initial eight episodes of Pluribus will be discussed.

The latest installment kicks off with Manousos, portrayed by Carlos-Manuel Vesga, awakening in a Panamanian hospital following a perilous incident in a rainforest at the conclusion of the previous episode. Despite the hive saving his life, Manousos is displeased with his circumstances. He harbors a deep aversion towards the hive and has adamantly rejected any assistance from them, even going so far as to destroy his cherished car to deter them. In a futile attempt to repay the medical aid he received, he embarks on a journey driving an ambulance to reach Carol in New Mexico.

Meanwhile, Carol’s situation takes a positive turn. After enduring solitude for an extended period, she now finds camaraderie with her hive mind companion, Zosia, played by Karolina Wydra, as they bond like old friends. They engage in activities such as hiking, getting massages, and playing cards together. During this time, Carol uncovers crucial insights about the hive. She learns that they communicate through an electric current, a process that occurs subconsciously like breathing. Additionally, they have maintained operational trains for food transportation, sleep in communal spaces like sports arenas to conserve resources, and are constructing a massive telescope to send a message back to Kepler-22b, the source of the virus.

Of utmost significance, Carol discovers that Zosia’s prolonged company is intended to keep her occupied and divert her attention from thwarting the hive’s plans. As we approach the penultimate episode, I contemplate several lingering questions that may influence the climax.

Is Carol’s newfound happiness genuine?

Initially, Carol’s joy seemed authentic. After experiencing profound loneliness, she yearned for human connection, and her time with Zosia appeared to have a positive impact on her demeanor. However, upon discovering the hive’s ulterior motives, Carol’s behavior shifts—initially, at least. This prompts me to question whether her current cheerful facade is a ruse to prevent the hive from suspecting her renewed investigations. Nevertheless, a surprising twist towards the end may challenge this assumption, suggesting a possible shift in her feelings towards the hive, particularly Zosia.

Do individual identities persist within the hive?

Initially, it appeared that individuality was subsumed within the hive mind. However, recent developments have blurred this distinction. Despite initial struggles, Zosia eventually manages to assert her individuality by using “I” instead of “we,” hinting at the presence of underlying individual human consciousness within the hive.

Will Carol and Manousos’s encounter lead to conflict?

Towards the episode’s conclusion, Zosia cryptically informs Carol that “you’re going to have a visitor.” This foreshadows a long-awaited meeting between the two skeptics of the hive. Given their strong personalities, the impending encounter between Carol and Manousos is likely to be fraught with tension. The question remains whether their collaboration to save the world—assuming Carol still harbors such intentions—will prove harmonious or contentious.