Frank, Jackie and Heather go head to head in the televised Democratic debate.
Excellent episode where Frank's single minded ruthlessness and treatment of people starts to take a toll on his closest allies. There's not a lot I can really say about the plot and still claim to be spoiler free, but what happens at the debate and the fallout is highly compelling and it's also intriguing to watch the reaction of characters who were not part of it.
We start off with Claire campaigning for Frank in the opening scene and much of the episode focuses on her reactions to events. This is an excellent narrative decision as it gives us a hint that some big character development is coming her way immanently.
One of the most interesting scenes comes as Frank prepares for the debate beforehand. I found this to be very plausible and can just imagine politicians taking up more time doing these types of things than fixing broken economies, health systems and trying to make world a better place.
The debate itself does require some suspension of disbelief on the part of those who demand nothing but pure realism from everything they watch, but as a piece of filmmaking it is epic. The writing, acting, directing, cinematography and editing are all top drawer.
Some of what happens next also requires some suspension of disbelief, particularly the conversation Frank and Jackie have in the Oval Office prior to her making a very big and important announcement, however it does serve the plot well.
Going back to Claire; how this all leaves her character is probably the most intriguing aspect of it. There are some scenes where she observes things, not saying much but her actions and body language say it all. A visual symbol used during one scene is an excellent nod to the way she's feels. Also, listen out to some of the dialogue she uses when reading a story to a group of school children.
There are some great character moments in this episode, particularly for Frank, Claire, Jackie, Heather and Remy. Also, one small but revealing scene with Freddy puts a perspective on Frank's relationship with everyone.