Episode 6, “Scream Rain,” is full of reconciliation as members of the Hazbin Hotel make amends. Meanwhile, Vox strategically gathers more allies in his pending war against Heaven.
We open with the evil Vox convincing Carmilla of Carmine Industries to join his resistance by supplying weapons for the war. Carmilla objects at first, but Vox’s propaganda is too strong to ignore. He cites himself as continuing Lilith’s dream of freeing them from Heaven’s tyranny, even suggesting that Carmilla needs to do this to protect her family. He finally suggests she’s either with him or against him. She folds, despite knowing Vox is only seeking glory for himself.
This is seen in how Vox attempts to persuade Valentino about the next stage of his plan. Both he and Velvette feel Vox centers himself, only requesting their help when he needs a favor. Alastor is present for this exchange as well, fueling the flames of dissent under Vox’s rule.
Meanwhile, news of Voxtek’s and Carmine Industries’ alliance reaches the hotel, which has seen better days. With Charlie preoccupied with her massive failure, Vaggie has been left to manage the facility. With the lovers at odds, Husk has had enough and leaves the hotel. Now desperate, Vaggie and Charlie call a truce to convince Carmilla to change her mind. But Carmilla reminds Charlie that she’s the one who asked for artillery first, essentially starting the conflict.
Husk returns to his roots at the casino. Dabbling in past vices, Keith David gets a chance to stretch his vocals in a rousing number. He’s almost convinced himself he’s better off alone until the lounge’s act delivers their song. It happens to be Angel. Later, the two share a moment realizing that neither of them deserves redemption, but find solace in their kinship. The two reconcile as Angel promises to see Husk back at Hazbin.
The spirit of forgiveness is in the air as Vaggie counsels Charlie. Charlie admits Vaggie was right, that she was too wrapped up in changing the narrative, all because she thought she could make her mother proud of her. Vaggie encourages Charlie, singing that if they can find love in Hell, then anything is possible.
Cherri and Niffty welcome Husk back to Hazbin, but can’t say the same for Angel, who is nowhere to be found. Both Husk and Cherri become suspicious. The episode ends with Lucifer receiving a call from Charlie. She pleads for his help, and he’s happy to oblige. Except, it turns out to be Vox in disguise.
Episode 6 was exciting, pushing the narrative forward with both alarming reveals and tender character moments. Angel and Husk’s relationship — the odd father-son dynamic — is beautiful to witness. David and Blake Roman’s chemistry is electric, and is one of the strongest subplots of the series. And Christian Borle’s performance as Vox makes viewers love to hate the manipulative antagonist.
Rating: 9/10