Ep 4. In Control

In control is the fourth episode of the first season of the TV series The Americans. The episode explores the dynamics of control as the main theme - who has it, who seeks it, and how those desires lead to consequences.

The episode starts with Philip and Elizabeth following a man named Tony, whom they suspect to be involved in the murder of another agent. After chasing him down, they discover that Tony works for the CIA, and they begin to wonder whether he's involved in the cover-up of the murder. Meanwhile, Nina, a KGB agent working in the embassy, is trying to get closer to Stan, an FBI agent, in order to gain information about what the FBI knows about the murder.

Back at the Jennings' home, Paige is going through a rebellious phase, sneaking out, staying out late and skipping school. Elizabeth tries to control her daughter, but despite her best efforts, Paige defies her and continues to act out. At the same time, Philip is struggling with the realization that his son, Mischa, is still in the Soviet Union and that he may never see him again.

The episode also features the introduction of Gregory, an old lover of Elizabeth's who turns up unexpectedly. Gregory is now involved in the black power movement in Washington, D.C., and Elizabeth is torn between her loyalty to the KGB and her feelings for him.

As the episode progresses, the various plotlines converge, and we see the characters trying to take control of their situations. Nina uses her sexuality to try and get information out of Stan, but it backfires on her. Elizabeth tries to control her daughter, but ultimately realizes that she cannot force Paige to follow her rules. Philip and Elizabeth also try to take control of their situation with Tony, but they are ultimately thwarted.

The episode ends with Nina being arrested by the FBI and sent to jail for her role in spying on the Americans. It's a reminder to all the characters that even when they think they're in control, ultimately their actions have consequences that they cannot predict.

Overall, In Control is an excellent episode of The Americans that explores the themes of control and power. The introduction of Gregory adds another layer to Elizabeth's character, and the tension between her loyalty to the KGB and her feelings for him is compelling. The episode also has a great sense of tension, as we see the characters struggling to maintain control in their personal and professional lives.

Ultimately, the episode is a reminder that even those who think they're in control are ultimately at the mercy of their own actions and the consequences that follow. It's a great example of the tense, character-driven storytelling that makes The Americans such a compelling show.