Ep 13. 1943

Angel season 5 episode 13, titled "1943," takes a journey back in time to the year 1943 during World War II. In this episode, Angel, Spike, and Gunn are sent back in time to the year 1943 to get a hold of a weapon that can kill an ancient demon, who is responsible for brain-sucking the members of an experimental project team.

The team is able to time travel by using a device called a "time window" that Fred has discovered in the basement of the Wolfram & Hart building. Upon arriving in 1943, the three realize that they've landed in the middle of the Los Angeles race riots that took place during that year.

Angel, Spike, and Gunn must tread carefully as they navigate through the racially charged and violent city. They discover that the demon they are after is working with a ruthless Nazi commander who is experimenting on humans, planning to use them to create a super-soldier army to fight the Allies.

As they try to locate the weapon, they also find themselves caught up in the fight for justice against the brutal violence and racial hatred that permeates the city. They come across an African American woman named Anne, who runs a shelter for orphaned children. Anne gives them a glimpse into the struggles of the time, including racism, sexism, and the effects of war on families.

The three heroes must also grapple with their own identities in this new time period. Spike, originally from England, is confronted with the harsh reality of the war in Europe and his own complicity as a former Nazi sympathizer. Gunn, an African American, has a difficult time understanding his place in a segregated society. Angel, meanwhile, confronts his own past as he comes face-to-face with a past love.

As the mission to find the weapon continues, the team discovers the true nature of the demon they're fighting against and the dire consequences of his plans. They face difficult choices and unexpected allies as they work to stop the demon and his Nazi collaborators.

Throughout the episode, the show manages to tackle a range of complex issues, including racism, war, and morality. The different perspectives of each character add depth and nuance to these discussions, making it clear that each character's experiences shape their worldviews.

The writing is sharp and engaging, and the episode manages to maintain both a sense of urgency and tension while still giving its characters room to breathe. The use of historical events and settings adds an additional layer of complexity to the story, making it clear that the actions of the present are intertwined with the events of the past.

Overall, Angel season 5 episode 13 is a thought-provoking and engaging episode that manages to juggle multiple plotlines and themes with ease. It is a highlight of the season and a must-watch for fans of the show.