In the most recent episode of Severance, titled “The After Hours”, directed by Uta Briesewitz and written by Dan Erickson, the show follows Mark and Devon as they team up with an unlikely ally. At the same time, Helly digs deeper into her suspicions. 

The episode begins with a deeply personal moment for Helena, who practices swimming before sharing a quiet breakfast with her father, Jame Eagan, whose home sits directly across from Lumon’s headquarters. She informs him that Irving is being “dealt with.” 

Meanwhile, at Lumon, Miss Huang completes her Wintertide Fellowship, a significant achievement that opens the door for her to oversee “global reforms” at the Gunnel Eagan Empathy Center in Svalbard. However, instead of progressing through her role on the severed floor as deputy manager, she faces a bizarre initiation ritual when Milchick forces her to break her ring toss game, a “material sacrifice” per the company handbook.

Elsewhere, Dylan’s outie has a moment with Gretchen, who confesses that she kissed his Innie during a visitation session. Dylan’s emotional reaction reveals the deep frustrations of being severed. In a moment of anguish, he threatens to quit, effectively ending his Innie’s existence. Gretchen, visibly torn, meets Dylan’s Innie to sever their connection, but Dylan’s unrequited love leads him to propose. Yet, Gretchen rejects his proposal. The blow is rough as Dylan vents to Helly and despite her attempt to offer solace, Dylan lashes out, lashing his frustration at the system.

Dylan then fills out a resignation form and submits it to Milchick, feeling there is nothing left for his Innie. Meanwhile, Helly becomes obsessed with recovering Irving’s drawing of the Exports Hall, carefully memorizing the directions on its back.

Mark and Devon seek out Cobel for assistance in unlocking answers about Mark’s past and the mystery surrounding his wife, Gemma. Devon, desperate to reawaken Mark’s Innie, pleads for Cobel’s help in accessing the Lumon-owned Damona Birthing Retreat. Cobel warns that if Mark’s Innie finishes the Cold Harbor file, Gemma will die. Mark is reluctant to follow through, but Devon convinces him to take the risk.

Back at Lumon, Mark’s absence is noticed by Dr. Mauer and Mr. Drummond. Drummond chastises Milchick for losing track of Mark, but Milchick defends his position, asserting that Mark’s actions outside of work are beyond his control. The scene reinforces the unsettling disregard Lumon has for the well-being of its employees. 

Irving returns home to find Burt waiting for him. Burt, having uncovered Irving’s secret investigation into Lumon employees, confronts him, assuming he’s a Lumon enforcer. This meeting is filled with tension as Burt shares his own experiences as a Lumon driver, taking Irving to a train station and giving him a ticket out. Irving expresses his longing for love, however, Burt sends Irving off. 

Helly continues her goal to memorize the directions to the Exports Hall, only to be caught by Jame, who accuses her of tricking him. 

“The After Hours” continues Severance’s exploration of the psychological and emotional disintegration caused by the severance process. The episode raises critical questions about identity, autonomy, and the consequences of unchecked corporate power. Adam Scott and Tramell Tillman’s performances continue to be a standout as the show progresses to the end.  

In conclusion, The After Hours is another standout episode in Severance, unveiling critical plot details and providing a deeper understanding of the show’s central characters. The masterful blend of striking cinematography, evocative performances, and thought-provoking storytelling leaves viewers eagerly anticipating the next chapter.

Rating: 8/10