Severance season 2 continues to delve into the psychological complexities of its characters in episode 4, titled “Woe’s Hollow.” The episode is rich with new lore, building upon the show’s intricate world. Directed by Ben Stiller and written by Anna Ouyang Moench, this episode expertly combines striking visuals with chilling themes, while pushing the boundaries of the dystopian narrative. 

The episode opens with a mesmerizing, isolated shot of Irving standing on a frozen lake, screaming into the emptiness. This snowy environment immediately sets the theme of isolation for the episode. Irving’s desperate cry echoes in the vast, desolate landscape until Mark, perched atop a distant mountain, answers him. The sweeping shots of the frozen wilderness emphasize the characters’ isolation, mirroring their emotional states. As Irving makes his way toward Mark, the cold, harsh surroundings almost seem to swallow him whole, creating a visual metaphor for his growing disconnection from reality.

Helly and Dylan, appear out of nowhere and join Mark and Irving on the trek through the cold wilderness. Together, the group ventures towards a computer monitor that holds a message from Milchick. The video announces they are on their first Outdoor Retreat and Team-Building Occurrence (ORTBO), an excursion designed by Lumon to fulfill the severed employees’ desire to experience the outside world. The team is told they will spend the next two days in the cold wilderness of the Dieter Eagen National Forest, effectively trapped in a picturesque yet hostile environment. The seemingly innocuous “team-building” activity serves as a reflection of the authoritarian control Lumon exerts over its employees, turning what could be a freeing experience into another form of corporate manipulation and a commentary on the mundane team-building activities of real life.

As the group moves through this chilling landscape, the episode creates a visceral sense of discomfort. The snow contrasts sharply with the team’s dark attire, highlighting their alienation and vulnerability, as the winds seem to echo the inner isolation the characters are experiencing.

The tension rises when they encounter another figure in a suit, who silently gestures toward the entrance of a cave. Mark, concerned for Helly, checks in on her emotional state, developing a connection between them. The potential for a deeper relationship between them lingers, although the show has a chance to explore Innie Mark’s troubled past with his Outie wife, Ms. Casey, which raises questions about his ability to fully move on.

Irving becomes increasingly suspicious of Helly’s motivations and starts to voice doubts about her story. His assertion that Mark’s feelings for Helly are clouding his judgment sparks tension within the group. This moment is a turning point for Irving, who seems to be questioning not only the reality of their mission but also the sincerity of their relationships. The undercurrents of resentment and distrust become more apparent, especially when Irving suggests eating a seal-like thing they encounter in the wilderness. The rising tensions culminate in an emotional outburst from Irving, who accuses Mark of being too lenient and dismissive of the darker truths surrounding Lumon.

As the journey progresses, the group finally arrives at Woe’s Hollow. Here, the mystery deepens when Milchick reveals that each ] character’s other selves were also present to mimic the handbook’s story. Night falls, and the team arrives at a bizarre blue-lit tent outpost in the woods. The glowing tents cast an eerie blue hue against the surrounding snow, creating a surreal and unsettling atmosphere. As the group settles in, the episode explores deeper themes of belief and control. Irving, grappling with the strange teachings in the Lumon handbook, questions Milchick about their truth. When Milchick affirms the story’s validity, Helly laughs at the absurdity of the tale, offering a sharp critique of the cult-like dogma that has been imposed upon them. Her mockery, echoed by Dylan and Mark, contrasts with Milchick’s icy reaction, reminding viewers of the power dynamics at play. Milchick’s chilling response that those who laugh fail to understand further cement Lumon’s role as a manipulative, cult-like organization.

In a tense moment of punishment, Milchick orders Miss Huang to throw the remaining marshmallows into the fire, a symbol/threat of conformity. When questioned, Milchick’s explanation—that marshmallows are for team players—reinforces the idea that Lumon uses seemingly innocent rituals to enforce submission and solidarity among its employees. The harshness of this act underscores the episode’s exploration of Lumon as a dystopian corporate entity that blurs the line between a powerful corporation and a cult.

Irving, the only one not laughing, questions his role within the team. He grows increasingly resentful, especially towards Mark and Helly’s budding connection, which further isolates him. His frustration culminates in a disturbing act where he nearly drowns Helly, accusing her of being an “Outie.” In response, Milchick reverts Helly to her Innie form, and Irving is swiftly dismissed from Lumon, marked for termination. The episode ends on a tragic note as Irving is forcibly removed from the retreat and sent back to the wilderness, now disconnected from his Innie self.

“Woe’s Hollow” is an episode that encapsulates much of what makes Severance so compelling—its eerie atmosphere, psychological complexity, and biting social commentary. While the episode is visually stunning, with its striking depictions of the cold wilderness and surreal lighting, it also raises questions about pacing. At times, the show as a whole can feel overly long, yet it ultimately succeeds in deepening the world’s mythology and pushing the characters further into emotional and psychological turmoil.

This episode also marks a turning point for the characters, particularly Irving, whose growing suspicions and subsequent firing from Lumon continue to raise the stakes. Severance keeps its audience on edge, providing just enough answers while leaving many unanswered and viewers wanting more.

Rating: 8/10