Ep 3. Eli Matchett

Red continues with his campaign to take down the cabal, and he is keeping his promise to Liz by also helping her track down her long-lost sister. In this episode, Red and Liz team up to pursue the next name on the blacklist, Eli Matchett, a former scientist who turned into a radical eco-terrorist.

The episode starts with a bang, as Eli Matchett and his group of environmental extremists hijack a shipment of hazardous materials. They demand that the government address their concerns about pollution and climate change, or else they will unleash the toxic chemicals into the water supply of a major city. It's a tense and dramatic opening sequence, as the FBI scrambles to negotiate with Matchett and prevent a potential disaster.

Red and Liz get involved because they believe that Matchett is also involved with Liz's sister, who has been hiding out with eco-terrorists for years. They head to a rural farm where Matchett is believed to be hiding, and soon find themselves embroiled in a firefight with his well-armed followers.

The action is intense and thrilling, but the episode also delves into Matchett's backstory and motivations. He was once a respected scientist who was appalled by the damage being done to the environment, and he turned to extreme measures when he felt that his work was being suppressed by corporations and politicians. It's a familiar trope, but the show manages to make it feel fresh and relevant.

One of the standout scenes in the episode comes when Red confronts Matchett and tries to reason with him. They have a fascinating conversation about the state of the planet and the role of corporations and governments in perpetuating environmental destruction. It's rare to see a TV show tackle such complex issues in such a nuanced way, and it's a testament to both the writing and the acting that the scene works so well.

Of course, it wouldn't be an episode of The Blacklist without a few twists and turns. The true nature of Matchett's plan is revealed, and it involves more than just the release of toxic chemicals. There are also a few surprises in store regarding Liz's sister and her involvement with the eco-terrorists.

Overall, Eli Matchett is a strong episode that combines thrilling action with intelligent storytelling. It's always a pleasure to watch James Spader as Red, and Megan Boone continues to impress as Liz. The Blacklist may not always be the most realistic or grounded show on TV, but it's always entertaining and thought-provoking.