Ep 6. Meet Me in Daegu

In Lovecraft Country season 1 episode 6 "Meet Me in Daegu," the story takes a trip back in time to the Korean War era. We follow the character of Ji-ah, a Korean nursing student who's living a double life as a shaman, and the complicated relationship she forms with Montrose, Tic's father, who's drafted into the war.

Throughout the episode, Ji-ah and Montrose's story is interwoven with flashbacks from Ji-ah's childhood. We see Ji-ah becoming aware of her shamanistic powers and the dark spirits that inhabit her body. Her mother, who's also a shaman, attempts to exorcise these spirits, leading to a horrific and traumatic event that affects Ji-ah for years to come.

As the storyline in Korea unfolds, the viewer is presented with a complex and often confusing picture of the war. We see American soldiers perpetrating violence against the Korean people, and Ji-ah's own brother is conscripted into the North Korean army. Through Ji-ah's eyes, we witness the sacrifices that the Korean people made during this time and the tragedy that war can bring.

At the same time, the relationship that develops between Ji-ah and Montrose is at the heart of the episode. Montrose, who we've seen struggling with his own identity and his relationship with his son, is forced to confront some harsh truths about himself and his own sexuality. Ji-ah, who begins the episode indifferent to Montrose, becomes increasingly drawn to him, leading to a powerful and intimate moment between the two.

Overall, "Meet Me in Daegu" is a stunning and complex exploration of identity, trauma, and history. The episode expertly weaves together themes of spirituality and sexuality with an unflinching look at the often-brutal realities of war. It's a standout episode and a testament to the incredible storytelling chops of the Lovecraft Country team.