The last episode of Peacemaker Season 2 slowed the pace with heavy exposition centered on the enigmatic door technology now in Peacemaker’s hands. Episode 5, “Back to the Suture,” continues in much the same vein, serving more as a transitional chapter that nudges Peacemaker closer to the inevitable choice of embracing the other universe.
The episode opens with the somber funeral of Rick Flag Jr. Emilia Harcourt sits in quiet reflection when Rick Flag Sr., preferring simply to be called “Rick,” approaches and presses her for access to the Operation Starfish dossier. Bound by classification levels beyond her reach, Harcourt cannot comply, leaving him frustrated. Although initially barred from the files, Rick later secures them once he assumes the role of ARGUS director.
Before parting, Harcourt promises that her fallen teammate will be avenged. At the time, she knew Peacemaker was responsible, though her feelings for him were far different from what they are now. In the present, her loyalty lies firmly with Peacemaker. Yet, this earlier moment underscores the unshakable trust forged between her and Rick Sr. It also raises the lingering question of how Rick might react if he learned Harcourt once slept with his son’s killer and even aided him in escaping justice.
It turns out the message Harcourt sent Peacemaker in the previous episode was a hidden warning telling him to stay away; advice he chose to ignore. He manages to slip past a sniper and a squad of gunmen long enough to reach her, but the confrontation ends with him surrounded. To keep Agent Bordeaux from executing him on the spot, Harcourt intervenes and knocks Peacemaker unconscious herself.
Peacemaker survives but is arrested and brought in, where Rick Flag Sr. takes the opportunity to unleash a brutal beating behind closed doors. Despite being unrestrained and more than capable of fighting back, Peacemaker refuses, accepting the violence as penance for Rick Jr.’s death and shouldering the guilt without resistance. Flag Sr. nearly kills him, but Bordeaux interrupts, pointing out that Economos has already logged Peacemaker into the system. If he disappeared while in custody, it would put ARGUS under scrutiny. Somehow, John keeps his job, and once again, his willingness to defy authority proves invaluable.
Eagly finally comes face to face with Red St. Wild, bringing that subplot to a close in a mix of drama and absurd humor. The clash is brief but memorable, balancing tension with a touch of comedy. Red St. Wild’s suspicion proves correct: Peacemaker’s feathered companion is no ordinary bird but a legendary alpha eagle. With a piercing cry, Eagly summons an entire flock, and the scene takes a gruesome turn as Red St. Wild is torn apart under a storm of talons, skinned and butchered alive by the very myth he set out to prove.
Peacemaker stumbles back to the cabin, battered and bloodied, convinced that Harcourt betrayed him despite her warning to stay away from the park. Deep down, it feels less like suspicion and more like a justification for what he already wanted: to abandon his own reality in favor of the alternate universe. In that world, Peacemaker is already admired, even when he treats people poorly, and all he needs to do now is live up to their faith in him, especially Emilia’s.
He seals the portal behind him, cutting off any chance of return. For ARGUS, this could mean the end of their troubles: no rifts, no more instability. But Rick Flag Sr. will not be satisfied with a closed door. He wants the Peacemaker gone for good. The 11th Street Kids recover the portal device and vow to bring Peacemaker back, setting the stage for the final three episodes to focus on that mission.
Overall, Episode 5 feels like another building block on the road to an explosive conclusion. While it may not stand out as the strongest chapter of the season, the combination of two standout action sequences and meaningful character growth across the ensemble keeps the momentum alive. The groundwork laid here ensures that anticipation for the closing stretch remains high, promising a finale that could deliver both spectacle and emotional payoff.
‘Peacemaker’ Season 2 Episode 5 Review: Another Brick in the Road to the End
Overall, Episode 5 feels like another building block on the road to an explosive conclusion. While it may not stand out as the strongest chapter of the season, the combination of two standout action sequences and meaningful character growth across the ensemble keeps the momentum alive. The groundwork laid here ensures that anticipation for the closing stretch remains high, promising a finale that could deliver both spectacle and emotional payoff.
