Ep 8. Jig-a-Bobo

When a television show is able to navigate through different genres while still maintaining a tight plot and keeping the audience engaged, it's a sure sign of an impressive team of creators and writers behind it. Lovecraft Country has consistently impressed in this regard, and in episode 8, titled "Jig-a-Bobo," the show goes all-in for horror while incorporating historical, political, and magical elements as well.

The title itself is a reference to a type of folk art that originated in the Southern U.S. during slavery times. Jig-a-bobo, which is also known as a "boo-jum" or a "bugaboo," is a scarecrow made of sticks, rags, or other materials that were meant to intimidate and scare away unwanted visitors or predators. In the context of the show, we see the term used in a more sinister way.

The episode picks up after the previous one's suspenseful and explosive ending, which saw Atticus, Leti, and Montrose attempting to access the legendary Orrery, an ancient device that has the power to open gateways to other dimensions. In "Jig-a-Bobo," the trio must deal with the consequences of their actions, as they are pursued by a group of mysterious creatures that seem to be connected to the legendary "Watchers," an otherworldly race that is hinted at in previous episodes.

The episode is directed by Misha Green, who co-created the series along with executive producer Jordan Peele. Green has spoken in interviews about her desire to highlight the plight of Black Americans and their struggles against systemic racism and oppression. With "Jig-a-Bobo," she takes this intent to a new level, incorporating themes of lynching, police brutality, and cultural appropriation into the storyline.

As the trio tries to evade their pursuers and find a way out of their dire situation, they come across a small town in Indiana that seems to be stuck in the past. The town is populated entirely by white people who look at Atticus, Leti, and Montrose with suspicion and hostility. In this eerie setting, Lovecraft Country takes a turn towards horror, as the trio realizes that the town is not as innocent as it appears.

There are nods to classic horror movies throughout the episode, from The Texas Chainsaw Massacre to The Shining, but what sets Lovecraft Country apart is the way it melds these references into a story that is unique and thought-provoking. The episode's climax is a tense and terrifying sequence that will leave viewers on the edge of their seats.

Overall, "Jig-a-Bobo" is a standout episode that showcases the best of what Lovecraft Country has to offer. It's a gripping and emotional story that masterfully blends different genres, while also delving deeper into the show's themes of Black empowerment and the horrors of systemic racism. Fans of horror, fantasy, and historical drama alike will find something to love in this episode, and it's sure to leave a lasting impression on all who watch it.