Ep 9. Long Way Back

After a tumultuous few episodes, Burn Notice returns with a more subdued, character-focused episode in season 3 episode 9, "Long Way Back." While there is still plenty of action and intrigue, the episode primarily serves to deepen our understanding of the show's core characters and their relationships with one another.

The episode picks up where the previous one left off, with Michael, Sam, and Fiona hot on the trail of a group of mercenaries. Their pursuit leads them to a small town in the middle of nowhere, where they soon realize they're in over their heads. The mercenaries have taken over the town and established a brutal dictatorship, using the residents as their own personal slaves. Michael and his team are quickly captured and forced to work alongside the locals.

While the team comes up with a plan to escape and take down the mercenaries, they're also forced to confront their own personal demons. Michael is struggling with the guilt of having caused so much pain and suffering in his life, while Fiona is grappling with her feelings for him. Sam, meanwhile, is dealing with the fallout of a botched mission that has left him questioning his own competence.

As the team works to free themselves and the town from the mercenaries' grip, they're forced to confront their own vulnerabilities and shortcomings. Through it all, they rely on each other for support and guidance, forging deeper bonds than ever before.

One of the standout moments of the episode comes when Michael and Fiona finally have a heart-to-heart about their feelings for each other. It's been a long time coming, and the tension between them has been building for several seasons now. Their conversation is raw and honest, and it sets the stage for some major developments in their relationship going forward.

Another standout moment comes when Sam has to confront his own limitations and acknowledge that he can't always be the hero. The scene is a poignant reminder that even the strongest, most capable people have their weaknesses, and that it's okay to ask for help when you need it.

Overall, "Long Way Back" is a strong entry in the Burn Notice canon. While it may not have the sheer adrenaline rush of some of the show's more action-packed episodes, it more than makes up for it with its nuanced character work and emotional depth. This is Burn Notice at its best - a show that combines thrilling espionage hijinks with genuine heart and soul.