Pluribus has just released its fifth episode, a timely drop before Thanksgiving that brings us to the midpoint of its inaugural nine-episode season. For Carol (Rhea Seehorn), the new existence in Albuquerque has morphed into an unsettling routine. However, the arrival of fresh challenges from the local residents propels her into action as she seeks to reclaim her power.
In this episode titled “Got Milk,” we find Carol waking up to a desolate city, where the last remaining residents seem to have vanished. The only voice she encounters when seeking help is a sarcastically polite voicemail—an echo from Better Call Saul that reflects the absurdity of her situation.
Carol’s Dilemma: Seeking Connection Amid Isolation
Though Carol prides herself on her independence, her circumstances compel her to reach out to the Others for assistance. She begins recording updates for her “12 fellow survivors,” pleading for their help in disseminating her findings globally. This quest underscores her growing loneliness, emphasizing how isolated she feels in what remains of humanity.
The Importance of Community: Will Others Respond?
Carol insists, “We owe it to humanity” to rescue those still afflicted, despite many survivors showing indifference to the ongoing crisis. This sense of urgency portrays her as a beacon of hope in a fading world. Yet, will her messages reach anyone willing to act?
The Wild Card Encounter: Who is Manousos?
A potential ally, Manousos (Carlos-Manuel Vesga), holed up in Paraguay, adds layers to the narrative. While this episode centers primarily on Carol, it hints at future revelations involving him, raising questions about his role in the unfolding events.
Visual Storytelling: Nature and Its Resurgence
Episode five delivers poignant scenes, such as a telltale book on Helen’s side of the bed—And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie. These images resonate throughout the episode, with a malfunctioning drone humorously illustrating the chaos of their current reality.
The botched trash collection leads Carol to a shocking discovery: milk cartons strewn throughout the public waste. What significance do they hold in this bleak new world?
The Discovery: What Lies Ahead?
As Carol investigates, she uncovers a factory that recently packaged a mysterious white powder. Her final gasp at the episode’s conclusion leaves viewers on the edge of their seats—what could she have found?
Wolves at the Door: A Symbol of Dangers
The wolves prowling her neighborhood symbolize the primal fear that echoes real-life experiences during the pandemic. Just as nature reclaimed urban spaces, Carol finds herself defending her home fiercely. The first use of a golf club as her weapon illustrates her desperation and determination to protect her loved ones.
In a moving act, Carol drives to a building supply store to secure stones to cover Helen’s grave, highlighting her deep-seated emotions. This action reaffirms her independence; no one will disturb her memories.
Carol’s journey shows that while the Others seek to impose their will, a resilient spirit remains unyielding. The heart of Pluribus lies in the mix of profound loss and relentless determination.
What could Carol’s gasp indicate? What will she uncover next on her investigative journey? And will her fellow survivors ever recognize her pleas? The anticipation builds as we await episode six on Apple TV+ next Friday.
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