Chernobyl is back in the headlines this week, with the aftermath of last week's explosion still a very real and imminent threat. Seven hours after the incident, irradiated victims flood into hospitals while a commission convenes with Professor Legasov to discuss the situation. Frustrated by the apathy of the other members, Legasov implores the commission to evacuate the area, his voice filled with urgency.
After patiently trying to explain nuclear energy to his colleagues, they finally agree to fly a helicopter over to Chernobyl with Legasov and another board member, determined to uncover the truth behind the misinformation being spread. As the helicopter approaches the plant, Legasov's wide-eyed stare speaks volumes. He urgently tells the men not to get any closer – he can see the core has been exposed thanks to an eerie, blue glow emanating from the plant.
On the ground, the plant directors from last week insist they're mistaken and vehemently deny any graphite on the roof or the ground. After accusing them of misinformation, Legasov manages to obtain a high-level reading thanks to a lead-coated vehicle driven up to the Chernobyl Plant. The reading is a shocking 15,000.
Realizing the gravity of their situation, Legasov tells them they need to drop sand and boron on the core to try and extinguish the flames. As the helicopters begin their drops, coded messages reach Ulyana Khomyk, a nuclear physicist, about the operation. Unable to make headway with the politicians, she decides to visit the area herself.
Thirty-six hours after the explosion, Pripyat's 49,000 residents are finally evacuated courtesy of hundreds of coaches piling into the city. With the town now an eerie relic of what it once was, Khomyk arrives and quickly informs Legasov and the others that they've made a mistake – the water tanks in the plant aren't empty. As dread sets in, Legasov realizes the full extent of the situation and calls for an emergency meeting with the commission.
With the newly acquired knowledge that these water tanks hold the potential to inflict catastrophic damage on a massive scale, Legasov pleads with the board for permission to send three brave souls into the tanks manually, to release the water and save the nation. However, this act also spells doom for the men. The episode ends with these three heroes stepping forward for the greater good, venturing into the watery, radioactive reactor, their flashlights extinguished.
Once again, Chernobyl offers a harrowing and authentic portrayal of the events that paved the way for one of the most devastating human disasters of our time. Despite the differing accents and the lack of authentic Soviet language that may deter some viewers, the acting is unparalleled in its emotional depth and authenticity.
The haunting, minimalist music and meticulous camera work create an immersive experience that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The series' stunning cinematography captures the moment with unforgettable shots, while the scenes depicting Chernobyl's toxic fumes effectively underscore the gravity of the situation.
With Chernobyl staying true to the timeline of events, it is exciting to see how far this show will go in terms of depicting the full extent of human casualties and gruesome injuries. For now, however, Chernobyl is a gripping and enthralling watch that delivers another episode filled with poignant moments.
