Nautilus’ sixth episode, “The Big Blue,” is the series’ best thus far, finding a great balance of its fantastical action, screwball comedy, and real-world drama. The stakes reach a new peak as Nemo’s team makes a grand discovery, but suffers a greater cost. And distrust begins to creep among the men of the Dreadnought.
The Nautilus’ crew collectively awakens from the infectious stupor to discover Humility missing. Nemo shifts into action, rescuing her from the blue deep. Unconscious, Benoit revives her with his stun gun. Nemo is amazed at her tenacity, thanking her for saving them once again. The close call seems to bring the group together.
As Humility recollects herself, she confesses to seeing a man-made structure, which Benoit reveals is the alleged location of Atlantis. Nemo feels betrayed that Benoit kept this a secret from him. Benoit retorts that his ambition is no less lofty than Nemo’s search for a treasure to fund his revenge. After some soothing, Nemo agrees to one dive to investigate. The two scientists are joined by Humility, Jiacomo, and, surprisingly, Edward Cuff.
A fair distance away, the Dreadnought continues searching for the missing submarine. Director Crawley has grown impatient with the interrogation of their Indian prisoner and pushes Captain Millais to finish the job. The scene between Jagadish and Millais is an emotional triumph, demonstrating how those working in favor of the oppressor are no freer than the oppressed. The once selfish prisoner shows immense character growth, but ultimately succumbs to Millais’ threats and reveals Nemo’s destination.
Later, we see the Company’s men have grown a bit tired of each other’s presence. Mainly Lord Pitt’s, whose ego is a touch too much for his colleagues. Suddenly, Director Crawley receives a telegram: he’s been summoned by another, Lord Parmoor, in London.
Beneath the sea waters, Nemo’s elite team investigates what Humility saw. To their surprise, they enter ruins that have not been explored in ages. Discovering the air is safe to breathe, the four split into two while Jiacomo stays on watch. While Benoit finds a rare artifact, Humility and Edward discover markings of an ancient creature. Or so they thought.
Soon, the millipede-like amphibians chase the foursome to retreat. But not before a pair of sharks block their way back to the ship. As Jiacomo makes a safe path, Humility and Edward board safely. However, after a valiant effort, Nemo fails to rescue his friend, Benoit, from the creatures’ violent assault.
Midway through the season, this tonal shift is a welcome surprise, establishing that the consequences are real. As a viewer, Benoit seemed to be a safe character; Nemo’s right-hand and staunch supporter. Ironically, those qualities make his character more ideal to lose. It will impact the story greatly. Jagadish’s possible demise is another surprise. Given his comedic chemistry with Ranbir and his valiant turn in episode three, it would seem natural for him to continue his heroic streak and reunite with the Nautilus. But his stupid courage was not in vain.
Rating: 8/10