Ep 10. 61 Degrees

As the penultimate episode of Hell on Wheels begins, Cullen Bohannon dampens his head and neck with water in an attempt to cool down in the sweltering heat of Durant, Nebraska. The temperature consistently hovers around 61 degrees Celsius, which poses a significant challenge to the Union Pacific Railroad’s construction efforts.

Meanwhile, Mickey McGinnes, played by actor Phil Burke, is desperately searching for dirt on his nemesis, the infamous Thomas Durant. Since Durham holds significant power over the railroad company, McGinnes seeks to expose and disgrace him in any way possible. As he turns over stones in his search for information, he encounters a few unexpected allies who are also eager to bring down Durant.

As tension builds between McGinnes and Durant, the rest of the season 5 cast is also navigating their own challenges and opportunities. From Ruth Cole’s quest for independence to Cullen and Mei’s growing bond, the characters in Hell on Wheels are all reaching critical points in their character arcs. As the episode progresses, viewers are left wondering how the final episode will tie up all of the loose ends.

The importance of the temperature in this episode cannot be understated. As the show’s central conflict centers around the construction of the railroad, the heat crisis is the latest challenge to pose an obstacle. With workers becoming ill and the machinery failing under the pressure, Cullen and Durant are forced to think creatively to find a solution. The way they solve this crisis reveals much about both characters, including their leadership styles and willingness to compromise.

The episode is also notable for the several parallel storylines that all come to a head simultaneously. With so many threads to follow, it can be tough for viewers who have missed previous episodes to keep up with all the action. However, it’s a satisfying episode that delivers drama in abundance, setting up the final episode for a thrilling conclusion.

Thematically, this episode of Hell on Wheels explores loyalty, trust, and betrayal. As old friends become enemies and new allies come to the forefront, the characters are forced to reevaluate who they can trust and what’s important to them. For some, this involves shifting the lines of their moral codes, while others hold steadfast to their principles. It’s a sobering reminder that, even in the midst of a chaotic gold rush, people will still come together or fall apart based on their ability to trust one another.

One standout moment in the episode takes place when Cullen and Durant share a drink together in a rare moment of frienship. Despite their tumultuous past, the two find common ground over the heat crisis and the legacy of the railroad. It’s a reminder that even old enemies can find common ground if they are looking for it. However, this moment of friendship is short-lived as both men are soon pulled back into their conflict, revealing how fragile alliances can be.

In conclusion, episode 10 of Hell on Wheels’ fifth season is a salient reminder that all things come to a head. With the stakes higher than ever before and tensions running high, the characters are forced to confront their biggest challenges yet. It sets up an exciting and satisfying conclusion to the series, drawing on themes of loyalty, trust, and the lengths people will go to protect what they consider important.