LOVECRAFT COUNTRY Episode 5 ‘Strange Case’ Breakdown | Ending Explained + Easter Eggs & Theories

LOVECRAFT COUNTRY Episode 5 ‘Strange Case’ Breakdown | Ending Explained + Easter Eggs & Things You Missed. We review, recap and explain the fifth episode of Lovecraft Country on HBO Max. We also discuss the big Christina Twist, Ruby, Tic and Leti.
#LovecraftCountry #Episode5 #HBO
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Welcome to the Heavy Spoilers show, I'm your host Deffinition and we're now past the half way point of Lovecraft Country.
Throughout this video we'll be breaking down all of the fifth episode and because of this there will be heavy spoilers.
We're just gonna get right into it so thanks for clicking this
With that out the way, thank you for clicking this, now let's get into Lovecraft Country.
A Strange Case Meaning
Ok so as always you know we love to break down the meaning of the title before we get into the episode. This one predominantly sees Ruby taking an elixir that changes her into a white woman.
In the past we've gone into a lot of different meanings and definitions behind the choices of the episode names but I think this one is pretty straight forward.
I think Strange Case pulls from Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. Though it's referred to as that, the original works full name was The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde which I'm sure you're well aware of is about a man taking a drink that transforms his personality. Here it's a lot more nuanced and whereas that book was predominantly a metaphor of alcohol, in Ruby's case it's about society and systemic racism.
Previously we saw the character end up completely deflated after she went to get a job at a department store and saw that there was already a black female member of staff there which would pretty much ruin her chances of ever getting employed. Through the eyes of a white woman she sees how differently that society treats her and how she's no longer seen as a second class citizen.
In the 50s women as a whole were looked down upon by men and it took a long time before they were ever viewed as equal. However, combined with her skin colour Ruby is pretty much at the bottom and this potion grants her the opportunity to move one more step up the ladder.
We'll get into it in a bit but Christina has also clearly taken something similar in order to become William and I like how the characters both found something that they could relate to.
Shoutouts to Bynd Gaming for also pointing out that this episode as a whole is about being comfortable in your own skin and this too is reflected in Montrose who we learn in the episode is gay.
So lots of things going on and we open with Ruby waking up in the body of a white woman who looks exactly like the sherrif of Ardham that we met in episode two. Though the reason for this is never given, in the book we learn that the elixir is actually extracted from the blood of Caleb Braithwaite's mother. In the show, William and Christina are sort of an amalgamation of him but they may change things up with the potion potentially being extracted from the sheriff herself. It is possible she could be a copy of William too but if she was white like the people of Ardham anyway then there's no real reason why she would need to change her skin colour anyway.
Cut to the title screen and we see the symbols of butter flies which hisotrically are shown as a metaphor of rebirth.
Butterflies are made from the same cells as caterpillars yet we often see them as more, something which William remarks on. As he views black people as less than he is, he sees this transformation as a kindness, which speaks to his mentality towards teh race.
Ruby very much emerges from her cocoon confused and in doing so she bumps into a young boy, which immediately alerts...
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[@heavyspoilers]

Check out our breakdown of 81 Insane Details and Easter Eggs in Lovecraft Country Season 1 here - kzbin.info/www/bejne/qGPMe6yEmK2epsU

[@mil0rea]

The black woman longing to have the priviledge of a white women whilst a white woman longs to have the power of a white man

[@ertfgghhhh]

Iktr

[@rixx46]

there's so much truth and toxic history expressed when she says she doesn't know which is more disempowering, being a woman or being black. One of the many reasons I have so much respect for the strength and power of the black women I have known.

[@veec4153]

Ummmmm....

[@keith1689]

Milo Starr such a profoundly complex point. Well said..

[@joellgilbert9588]

That part!☝️. Yes!!!!

[@2ndround415]

I think Ruby was was also suffering with a little bit of a respectability politics -which is indicative of the era - at the Houseparty in episode 3 she made a comment - when talking about the job - that if more black people worked as hard as her they’d be further ahead (American Dream) and that leads into her issue with the girl who got her job instead of her, Tamera. Also, sometimes the first black person in a role has to deal with jealousy and suspicions from other black ppl like we want to progress but only if I’m the first - and some black ppl WANT to be the ONLY other person of colour in the room (cause we’re aware sometimes it’s a token position so we fear others taking our ‘spot’) also Ruby’s position is only obtained because she’s given an advantage from a ‘white man’ but she looks down on Tamera when she discovers the same - the boss most likely hired her because he was attracted to her and could take advantage of her - Ruby fails to see the similarity in their circumstances. This show is so amazing cause we see the effects that hurt and being disenfranchised has on different personalities and the characters are so layered and complex that instead of judging them we can learn from them.

[@valerieminter3377]

Another point is that I think Ruby was more devastated because she had gotten the education and Tamera did not (Ruby was more qualified) which discovered by being Hillary.... Unfortunately this happens a lot too

[@2ndround415]

Valerie Minter absolutely! Great point !

[@violetinthesun1756]

Riiiight! 😭😭 it feels surreal to see these issues being acknowledged 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤

[@originalcosmicgirl]

I was also thinking that sometimes they hire the less qualified person to "prove" that a black person could not perform as well as a white person. It's an excuse for them to say, "See, we gave them a chance, but they are just not good enough."

[@violetinthesun1756]

@@originalcosmicgirl and if you find yourself in the position of being that 'under qualified' black person welcome to the world of mental breakdowns trying to figure out if you really being set up or you just worthless 😪 I hate it all sm, fr ❤❤❤ love to my people out there

[@SoulfulConfidence]

I also think it’s important to note that Ruby is plus sized while Tamera is more “conventional” and skinny. I think this was looked over by a lot of viewers, that even though Ruby was more educated the business wanted a certain look for their one black employee.

[@Kissed_by_the_sunmoon]

Oh no I caught it

[@blessingike7004]

I thought that was one of the reasons she wasn’t hired too. I felt like even if she came at the same time as tamera when they needed a bw for appearances, they would’ve still refused her cause she’s more big boned

[@justme8201]

I caught that too. Cause I was like why are you mad when they hired a black lady. Then I started to think: Both of them were dark skinned so it wasn't light vs dark, but the only difference that I seen was that one was smaller than the other. Also! They probably didn't want to hire any black people at all, and it got heated for them hence the "hired on a whim" thing and just hired Tamara on the spot at that time.

[@melissamecir3479]

But she never even applied for the job,that is why she doesn't get it, not cause she is overweight... because she literally never even applies...how can you get a job you never even apply for...

[@jdmoore5979]

@@melissamecir3479 👍

[@midnightrose1217]

One of those blink and you'll miss it moments was that Sammy lives in Cabrini-Green. Cabrini-Green was a public housing project Near the North Side of Chicago that failed in it's quest of being a mixed income community. This area is also the setting of the horror movie Candyman that deals a lot with racism and its long effects.

[@lashebawinston4906]

Used for Good Times too, I believe!!!! DYNOMITE!!!!

[@kiml.hooper7717]

@@lashebawinston4906 yup.

[@loved1291]

MLK lived in the green too when he was fighting chicagos racist power structure

[@killerjob12]

Damn nice spot !!!

[@Indiegirl007]

I'm not gonna lie, Will looked like a whole snack leaning up against that car.

[@ajaarmstrong4423]

the entire snackery sis

[@neishameshae2371]

Yeah he did!!! And the way he looked at Ruby, Oh my damn😋

[@endor8witch]

he's a damn full course meal, sis

[@tah.loaf_ah]

Homeboy could like... definitely get it

[@Nostalgia2AKA]

Facts.

[@taotaostrong]

It’s interesting to see how quickly power corrupts Christina and Ruby. No one is immune.

[@Ramipon]

i do hope they become a chaotic power couple

[@highpriestess3947]

Ramy Pon Lmao me too lowkey!!

[@MichelMawon4982]

I didn't see her as corrupted. She exacted revenge on a man for something men do to women all the time...I somehow think any fed up woman could end up doing this and go right back to being someone who isn't power hungry elsewhere.

[@taotaostrong]

Johanne Oddly, I wasn’t terribly upset with her revenge (graphic as it was). I was more intrigued by her subtle snobbery toward Tamera and the way that it mirrored Christina’s sustained feelings of superiority over Black people when it suits her. I know that Ruby had to maintain appearances, but she also was willing to forgo small opportunities to be kind to Tamera when they were alone together; and she showed real personal resentment toward Tamera rather than empathy. For example, she was resentful of Tamera’s lack of education when she should have known/understood that there are numerous reasons why a Black woman in that era would have been precluded from attending high school or beyond. She was also nasty toward Tamera when it was just the two of them. She was unkind even when she didn’t have to be. No one was watching.

[@taotaostrong]

Ramy Pon It would be creepy, but a great story!!! Now that Ruby got her first taste of blood. She may be unstoppable.

[@lydiamoon5235]

The thing that struck me most from episode 5 is how Ruby is completely boxed in. She applies for a job as a BW and gets rejected. She turns in her same resume as a WW and she gets hired as Assistant Manager! Then, even though she has the qualifications to be assistant manager, when the store manager finally hires a black women, his decision is not based on education and experience, it's based upon who he wants to sexually assault. In her personal life, she seems to have made a connection with William (which brings one set of problems) only to find out that he's actually Christina, which could potentially bring her a whole new set of problems. She also experiences as a WW the feeling of being treated as a human being, only to also experience the feeling of power (and the abuse of power) for the first time, but even that was only temporary because she had to return to the restrictions and limitations of being a BW. Whew! It was a lot.

[@nettricegaskins1871]

As a black woman I can relate.

[@56postoffice]

Damn, you basically nailed it. I watched it and thought "this is f---ed up."

[@lilrabbitcuz]

I don’t recall her turning in her resume. She saw the black woman and turned around.

[@lydiamoon5235]

@@lilrabbitcuz She told Lettie in eppy 1 (?) that she had applied and been turned down. She said she planned to perfect her resume and try again. When she went to apply again, she saw that Tamra had been hired and knew that she'd missed her chance.

[@BergerFett]

This show just gets better and better

[@alveolate]

what if... it ends with a black man as president, but he's just a cog in the machine anyway, and then he gets succeeded by a racist fascist?

[@BergerFett]

@@alveolate it would be pretty on brand for lovecraftian horror iirc. like no matter what, you are doomed.

[@FelipePetersBerchielli]

i disagree...i think the show started with a really high note, episode 1 is 10/10, the others are mediocre in comparison, shame...

[@nicknevco215]

too bad it has little to do with Lovecraft Country more to do with Loveless Country

[@anitahsieh6266]

I can’t listen to Cardi B’s Yellow Bodak song the same ever again... “these is bloody shoes”

[@juliap5457]

Me either

[@respektmyname15]

🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@midnitehour1]

OMG

[@kinkykitty77]

Oh I know. I was shook but definitely proud of her for teaching his ass a lesson. *ahem* literally

[@deanahicks6744]

Ok I’m not the only one 🤦🏽‍♀️🤦🏽‍♀️ I was shook watching that scene but started cheering by the end of it

[@tmacshawty]

So when William was getting dressed with Ruby earlier I noticed how his style looked very much like Christina’s father (scarf, button down) which makes sense since Christina is sheltered and only idea of being a man is from her very own father. Interesting.

[@oseyeandrews824]

The symbolism of each Episode is astounding. Both women using the potion in order to "pass" Williams transformation was telegraphed a MILE away, but it was done shockingly. I really love this show, and your reviews have just the right amount of insight and outside perspective

[@MADKIDD623BHN]

...and humor....always needed when appealing to the masses...👍🏿

[@M80sgirl]

So we just not gonna talk about Captain Lancaster possibly having the torso of a black man? And who the hell was that prisoner in the closet??

[@kia6844]

Right!! I replayed that scene over and over. I saw that was a black man's torso.

[@101TexanNativez]

Lol.... Lancaster used to work with Dr. Epstein experimenting with attaching body parts and stuff on black people. The guy in the closet didn’t tell him where some lump some of money is.

[@ajaarmstrong4423]

@@101TexanNativez It could also be magical artifacts or books

[@fonzarelly3154]

Kia Concepcion me too!

[@101TexanNativez]

A'ja Armstrong it was explained that he worked with Hiram reattaching body parts. They experimented on black people. I didn’t make this up or guess it was explained.

[@Osprey1]

You didn't mention this, but when Ruby went for vanilla ice cream and seemed overjoyed it was because Black people weren't allowed to order Vanilla as a flavor at that time. It was considered a delicacy for whites only. Interestingly enough, its probably why so many African-American Grandparents enjoy Butter Pecan as their choice flavor. *Side note* I'm naming my son Christopher Nolan! It would be cool to win this gift 🤞🏾

[@jdmoore5979]

🤔🤔🤔🤔🤔🤔🤔🤔

[@SCHRODINGERS_WHORE]

Wtf????my grandpa always only wanted vanilla????that's far out!

[@mechellgrahamchannel1733]

Wowwww! Good catch 🍦

[@Jah996]

Smh absolutely disgusting 🤮

[@lelelew2735]

Even more messed up is a black man invented the flavor as an ice cream

[@Shaddowkhan]

This show is really good. Your break down is great and respectful.

[@jjohn5395]

I'm trying to ignore Ruby getting to Williams house on the white side of town with bloody chunks all over her (more than once). No one in the department store discovered the mess in the elevator? How did she leave in broad daylight after that? I'm trying to "go with it", but how they just show her at Williams all the time makes no sense.

[@ceeKay007]

There has to be an explanation as in episode 4 Christian goes into a compound and comes out as William before beating those

[@lashebawinston4906]

@@ceeKay007 I totally agree...the transformation process is bloody and horrific and takes time!!! I guess the show wants us to use the willing suspension of disbelief.😉

[@Lance37a]

@@ceeKay007 that's because William is the skin so she can't shed him when she transforms.

[@XMachete]

The issues around the store transformations are my only problems with this episode. I can buy that Ruby would have something stashed to wear out of the store after taking her revenge, but the initial unplanned transformation would leave quite the mess. One thought I had, but that they didn't show was rapid dissolution of the decaying material, almost sublimation. So it's weird they showed William bothering to clean-up when they could've used the same screen time to show that process which would address the plot point. The transformation into the borrowed skin seems to be clean and fast, requiring only dressing afterward.

[@Kissed_by_the_sunmoon]

No forget that. No one discovered the mess she left in ole boy’s office? I mean DNA all over the place.

[@HuskyType]

As a huge fan of “An American Werewolf in London” I think this episode showed the huge leap in digital technology, and did every bit of justice to the transformation scenes. That team deserves some series accolades.

[@Sunstar808]

Glad to see a channel actually doing complete breakdowns of Lovecraft Country.

[@GeeklyGoods]

Isn't it so good?

[@Sunstar808]

Geekly Goods Yes it’s great

[@helensotiriadis]

The vanilla ice cream -- it was sold only to whites in this time.

[@heavyspoilers]

Oh what! Had no idea so thanks for letting me know

[@helensotiriadis]

@@heavyspoilers I just did some googling. Some say it's a myth, so take it with a grain of salt

[@101TexanNativez]

Dafuq!! That’s crazy.

[@kayegolden7435]

@@helensotiriadis it’s not a myth it’s very much true also look up green benches. Only white could sit on green benches. My city St. Petersburg FL has a history of green benches... everything they do in this show is not only brilliant but very intentional. My grandpa used to tell us stories about vanilla ice cream and how they could only eat it on July 4th. Along with coca-Cola

[@helensotiriadis]

@@kayegolden7435 thank you for letting me know! I'm glad they're being careful about what they include. There are so many layers to this show, so many opportunities to learn from it

[@jokerYG]

This show is mind blowing. I've been consistently telling friends about it, but no one listens. They're missing out

[@goddessgodivah]

I believe that other woman was hired because the manager was attracted to her, hence his attack on her at the bar. Compared to Ruby, she was under qualified, but if the manager had to check a box of hiring a black woman, he most likely wanted it to be a woman he wanted or fantasied about. This Christina/Ruby dynamic will be interesting

[@angellover02171]

Yes he wanted a girl that felt obligated to get it on with him.

[@goddessgodivah]

angellover02171 Exactly! The manager hired Tamara because he had all intentions on harassing her. He needed to check off that minority box for employees and if he was going to do it, it mind as well be someone he could harass, manipulate, & oppress. Ruby kind of upset me a little because she was mad with Tamara for not having the qualifications; but she didn’t understand she was hired for her low skills because he wanted an up on her. He even said to white Ruby, you could even do my job, during the interview, when selecting her as ass manager. If he ever hired anyone with skills to match his, it definitely wouldn’t of been a black woman. She was jealous of Tamara at first so much she didn’t even feel her pain! When she was fussing at Tamara, she didn’t even hear Tamara telling her those other sales rep were using her to do their work

[@fylimar]

When I read the book, I was cheering, when RUby finally stopped taking that potion and got out of Calebs influence. I really like the actress, who plays Ruby here, she manages to put so much in just one gaze and her body language. She is quickly becoming my favorite in this show - full of talented actors and actresses.

[@VsgKeemie]

I wonder if Cristina has genuine feelings for Ruby?

[@heavyspoilers]

Yeah I think she actually does, it’s not in the book but seems like they’re going that way. Will be first interesting to see if it changes the ending because it goes a certain way with Caleb but obviously he’s not in this

[@anthonygordon9483]

Seems like Cristina is not comfortable in her skin. She speaks down about men all the time which seems like she hates how society is and envy's being a man. By having Ruby as a white woman and she as a white man, she can pretty much have her cake and eat it. The only question is if Ruby is Bi-Sexual. She was attracted to William not Cristina. But obviously they do have something in common. In my opinion I don't see them getting together. There is nothing that indicates that Ruby had any prior attraction to women. But hey this is HBO. I wouldn't be surprise if they make viewers think its possible to convert a straight individual gay.

[@2ndround415]

I think this is also how the show is brilliant because some ppl in interracial relationships feel like that automatically means they don’t have any prejudice but thats far from the truth. William’s sleeping with Ruby and pity’s her but as Definition pointed out William sees Ruby as less than and although he’s using her he feels he’s helping her by making her white.

[@Oceaniccake794]

for sure, Christina seems to actually be more man than woman. looking at the way she as been moving walking in the show she seems more comfortable with masculine traits. she does find ruby attractive although she seems to have first started with the intentions of using her to attain her own desires as becoming one of the leaders of the 35 lodges. anyway just guessing

[@nettricegaskins1871]

@@anthonygordon9483 It's very similar to what Ruby as Hillary said to Tamra: black people have to jump through hoops just to get what white people more easily have access to (jobs, etc.). White women had to do that to be in the same room with white men... and she's justified in her actions to level the playing field.

[@melissacross5525]

Christina into Ruby, huh? I can't blame her, though. Ruby is absolutely gorgeous! And your breakdowns of this show are getting better and better each time. I was actually mad I had to wait a bit for it to post! I was hoping I'd see it right after I watched it last night, lol

[@heavyspoilers]

Hahah I’m trying

[@heavyspoilers]

Thanks for dropping a comment btw

[@MADKIDD623BHN]

You kinda spoiled us with the last one poppoing up so fast...i was kinda like...where's Def..??

[@whattheysayaboutme425]

She IS gorgeous!

[@epiphany724]

I also noticed that when Montrose went to Sammy's house, Sammy was living in Cabrini O. Green. This is also the Housing Project where the 1992 Candyman Movie was set. Cabrini-Green was a housing project in Chicago as well.

[@nranderson778]

Correct! And Jordan Peele has a Candyman remake coming soon too!

[@bklynbrwlr]

@@nranderson778 Nia DaCosta is the writer and directo of the reboot, not Jordan Peele. He's just the producer. Same with this show. Misha Green is the writer and show runner.

[@heavyspoilers]

Let us know your thoughts on the episode as well as your theories for next time. Again thanks for all the kind words left on the video, makes it much easier getting up early on a monday knowing people are enjoying the videos.

[@campkira]

too much fucking... it becoming GOT....

[@ayates6333]

Not a fan of this episode. It strayed too far from the book. I really enjoy your reviews. They are layered.

[@MADKIDD623BHN]

The first time she molts. The skin is thicker and harder to come off and starts to fall off easier and easier...

[@heavyspoilers]

Thank you

[@MADKIDD623BHN]

This is the best show so far this year....

[@ruffgirl1776]

Absolutely have to have your breakdown. Not sure if you know but almost every state in the US had some sort of massacre of African Americans at one time. Greensboro NC had the Greensboro Massacre. Mississippi, St. Louis, Kansas. I love how this show slides it in but does not linger. I look forward to the Hippolyta time travel and i think that Atticus father’s Violence was because he couldn’t truly express we truly was and that was gay. So, he expressed his affection in abuse. I only mentioned the US and there violence because my Grandfather was Biracial and educated me personally on our history

[@djbowus]

Have u watched the documentary Wilmington on fire?

[@tianafreeman9388]

And if it lingers that wouldn’t be an issue either. It needs to be seen. It needs to linger. The truth will show itself whether you like it or not. For however long it chooses. Man can’t control if for to long. Especially the liars.

[@ajaarmstrong4423]

Montrose was abused because his father considered him to be too soft and as uncle George mentioned it hardens his heart. He does the same to Atticus because he thinks his violence, coldness and dishonesty has some hidden virtue. basically limiting atticus to adhere to the status quo as he was forced to.

[@petrasimpson3640]

Oklahoma, Florida, Philly..the list goes on

[@tmarie69]

I never made the connection between Yahima and Montrose killing her because of his own feelings. Great breakdown!!

[@toshatalks8544]

I feel like Yahima was a threat to Montrose because feelings can make or break you and that would have been a constant reminder to Montrose, something that he was running away from and or not wanting to deal with!

[@Leo-Correa]

If I’m not mistaken on the book the body Ruby uses when she takes the potion is indeed from the sheriff, we learn that by the end of the chapter when Ruby goes down to the basement and find the body there. We also learn that the sheriff was in sort of coma and Caleb states that by using her body, Ruby would be doing the sheriff a favor, as she would be then able to “dream” about Ruby’s adventures. If the series uses the same logic, then William’s body would likely belong to someone in state of coma as well, what would explain why Christina mentions the fact that Captain Lancaster almost killed William in the past and one of the reasons why Christina wants him to go down.

[@ertfgghhhh]

I thought the potion was from the blood of a white WOMAN that was in a coma. The woman worked for calebs family.

[@ayates6333]

@@ertfgghhhh yes you are correct, Del aka the Law/sheriff ìn Ardham.

[@ermonnezza74]

@@ertfgghhhh it's not explicit in the book but it is explained that the woman got hit in the head at the time the house went down, so either the writer or the screenwriters made the link

[@ayates6333]

@@ermonnezza74 it's in the book.

[@bgr5214]

Damn. HBO need to hire you. This review is extremely detailed with knowledge of history and shows a great respect to the book. I've watched this review multiple times. Excellent job!!!

[@DarriannMariee]

makes me think differently on when William/Christina told atticus “just because they don’t want you here doesn’t mean you don’t belong.” she FELT that. (even tho we all called it but still)

[@TerraEmperor1]

The thing going with that guy's body was than likely a body transplant from one of the black athletics from episode 3.

[@kiylabee]

Thats what i was thinking too. Probably Epstein doing before he died of course. I wish they would have gone into the back stories of each of those kidnapped ppl in episode 3 as to why them. There had to be a reason those people were kidapped because each person was different

[@TerraEmperor1]

@@kiylabee physical attributes most likely.

[@ajaarmstrong4423]

@@kiylabee Lancaster was probably the supplier. I imagined he would arrest a black person whenever Epstein needed a new test subject and deliver them to him. Being the chief of police, he had the power to get away with it.

[@kiylabee]

@@ajaarmstrong4423 I totally agree and i think thats what was happening. Epstein probably said "I need a basketball player, an old lady, a pregnant woman, a kid, etc". Just sick smh

[@ajaarmstrong4423]

Monique 92 it really is sick. Just makes you wonder about all the times things like that may have happened in the past.

[@stevencangruuv5661]

I was never into breakdown channels/shows until I found this one. Can't live without it now.

[@5TailFox]

While I can also see the parallels between this episode and Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde, with the theme of the episode being the concept of metamorphosis, it reminds Me more of a movie by the name "Watermelon Man," which is loosely based on Kafka's story, "Metamorphosis." In the movie, the main character, who's a bigoted White guy, goes to sleep one night only to wake up the next morning as a Black guy. He then goes through the day, experiencing the very bigotry and racism that he himself often displayed toward Black people.

[@heavyspoilers]

Ah nice

[@5TailFox]

@I.N. Turrner Yup.

[@cudamopar557]

@I.N. Turrner and a young Erin Moran (Joanie from Happy Days)

[@olgakuchukov6981]

What’s great about Watermelon Man is the black actor in the lead plays the first part in white face.

[@TheCloveart]

Emmitt Till was also seen I think in the third episode as well. He’s the friend of Atticus’ younger cousin. It’s kind of eluded to that his death might be portrayed in the show somehow.

[@killerjob12]

TheCloveart yes !! With Diana , he asked the ouija board " will i have a good trip to Mississippi " no poor lad

[@Rxrefill08]

The time machine, may also bring uncle George back too!

[@MADKIDD623BHN]

I hope so...

[@nyvelpyles2216]

I really believe uncle George is Atticus's father

[@quanishamoody7770]

Nyvel Pyles he is

[@nellyetsesfreres8616]

I hope so...

[@vmodez]

I miss him

[@lordlubu3029]

I really appreciate these breakdowns, gives me so much more context to each episode and just makes me love the show more. Keep on rocking bro!

[@heavyspoilers]

Thank you

[@MsMusic902]

Was waiting for this breakdown lol this show just gets better and better with each episode. I was not shock about William metamorphosis at all cause you never saw them in the same room together.

[@crozraven]

the transformation is really disturbing & painful, kinda remind me more of lycanthropy then Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde. Very similar effects with Lycan transformation from Van Helsing movie LOL Christina statement of magic being all about unmitigated freedom seems like a fallacy to me, because at what cost?? your souls? other people's souls? Unfortunately, Ruby seems to be accepting it fully at the end of episode 'cause she already tasted its "power fantasy."

[@SwaggKidz117]

Yeah it looks so weird I had to look away from watching it hurts more when Ruby does it because the flesh and blood is so gross

[@angelofrederic]

Why would they give anything to Montrose, after he admitted to burning the by-laws .

[@mmarlkraig30]

Thank you, and he killed Yehemah. At this point he is totally untrustworthy

[@Social_Pugatory]

mmarlkraig30 Absolutely. That’s why Tic almost killed him if Letti and the other boarding house members hadn’t intervened to stop him.

[@COrraThereal0ne]

@@Social_Pugatory I would've killed him! All that Progress....fucking gone and Montrose isn't even Tic's father but Tic still puts up with his shit!

[@nbrown487]

Idk if anyone in the comments mentioned this but Frank Ocean is also bisexual... might be another reason this song was chosen.

[@LILTRENTMUSIK]

I notice that

[@MOTM1234]

See on both sides like Chanel

[@SR-zv5ue]

Frank ocean is gay not bisexual

[@dramonmaster222]

It's interesting in how both different and similar Christine and Ruby are. Both are women who want what what they feel they are owed by society but in order to get it, they have to change what they are which carries with it it's own set of issues. Also the transformation scene looks so gross!

[@Jodynotsoordinary]

Love your attention to detail. I look forward to your breakdown every Monday

[@heavyspoilers]

Thanks Jody, have a great week

[@NigelCampbell]

Something I noticed after I watched the episode a second time: the judicious use of music. Frank Ocean's "Bad Religion" during the sex scene with Sammy and a contrived Montrose: the double entendre of “if it brings me to my knees, it's a bad religion,” serving as a cue for asking God for forgiveness and for performing oral as implied at the end of that scene. Not one, but two Cardi B songs. The lyrics are the links to the scenes. "Money" when White Ruby goes for the interview knowing she was going to get paid with her new skin. "Bodak Yellow" with the line "...These expensive, these is red bottoms / These is bloody shoes" as Ruby walks over Hughes with bloody shoes. The one that struck me was the song "Tutti Frutti" with the subliminal use of color-coded versions for different race listeners; Pat Boone's vanilla version when the White women were dancing in the stock room and the Little Richard version for the Black patrons -and the few White interlopers - of Denmark Vesey Bar. Brilliant. Looking forward to the Easter Eggs in future episodes.

[@KCfromDCtheLeo]

Great to see someone else caught the different versions of Tutti Fruitti and the political history behind white artist re-recording and therefore short-circuiting the chart life of Black songs.

[@clarapilier]

I don't know if William sees Ruby as less than, but he tells her he wants her to do whatever she wants in whatever the skin she wants.

[@kushitespearman9394]

Ruby is a means to and end. Christina is using her to get to the others. .. I think.

[@loved1291]

He wants her to form an addiction

[@kushitespearman9394]

@@loved1291 Hmmm.. I see. Then have a sort of dependency on her. Rationing out access.. Like how rich white republican men do Candice Owens with money, exposure,... and access.

[@anotherone6939]

@@kushitespearman9394 Dang THAT WAS DROPPIN' THE MIKE!😎😎

[@MzJacobPerez]

@ThisIsMyRealName I actually don't think she's a white supremacist. I agree with every other part you said though. She's self centered and using everyone else to get what she wants.

[@unapologeticallyintroverte9032]

I think the less qualified Tamara would have STILL been hired over Ruby because she had the look that conformed more to European society. Ruby knew this, which is why she was harder on Tamara once she was hired as assistant manager.

[@franksonm]

“Man’s looking fresh” 😂

[@sammymcclenton7520]

I guess when people lived for generations believing and feeling they were better than another than race of people, its hard to accept being equal.

[@songbird0402]

I have yet to read the book so this episode was a real “wtf” ride for me. Lol. Love the breakdowns and I run to find them after every show. Looking forward to what’s next!

[@BrittanySmiles]

did anyone notice the sheriff was wearing black skin when he was putting his shirt on? 🤨

[@quianawright9717]

I think Hiram Epstein might have done a transplant on him for whatever reason and now he has the upper torso of a black man because the scarring is around the collar area and the arms...

[@afrolovely]

@@quianawright9717 likely the lower region too.

[@tmmartinesq.6216]

YES

[@youngeddo3447]

Quiana Wright completely agree.. im surprised this was overlooked

[@oranjmusemeyer968]

@@youngeddo3447 I think the surgeries were done to extend their life- a form of immortality.

[@oranjmusemeyer968]

The butterflies at the beginning are Blue Morphos- morph being key. Blue Morphos are brown on the underside of their wings and "not attractive or desired" and when the wings are opened they are, " beautiful- iridescent blue." They literally look like two different species fused together- they flash between brown and blue with every flap of their wings. Just like Ruby. They were highly prized by collectors 100 years ago and white collectors would brave, "the dark dangerous south American jungle to obtain them." When they swarm to the top of the trees to warm in the sun they can be seen by pilots flying over the dense jungle as well. You could argue that the blue Morphos are either Ruby's eyes when brown or Christina's when blue symbolizing both views of the same world. The dance is the, "migrating locust." Locusts shed the skin many times as they migrate (swarm) and consume creating a path of destruction (and death because famine follows)and interestingly they don't really become locusts until they start to swarm and move across land- they change color and become pink and their bodies change shape- like the men becoming visually women thru the use of color and shape. We are never the sum of our exteriors.

[@Mspruitt2011]

wow! thanks for sharing

[@troublefollows9986]

Remember last episode... christina goes in the house and minutes later william comes out. Shedding skin...washing blood off and changing clothes in minutes? Curious...

[@MADKIDD623BHN]

That's what I said too...! I was about to call BS and the thought...maybe the time lapsed the scene...???maybe..

[@adrianejones3853]

It seems like stepping into a different body is much easier than tearing a body off. They don't show Christina become William, or Ruby become Hillary. Of course, I don't know why they don't show those parts, but they probably aren't as dramatic and gory as watching one flesh being ripped off as a whole other person emerges.

[@quianawright9717]

That transformation wasn't even minutes...it was a matter of seconds...so weird.

[@troublefollows9986]

@@adrianejones3853 even if they make putting on william instant and without being covered in blood ... change of clothes is a issue. William is always a sharp dresser.

[@adrianejones3853]

@@troublefollows9986 that is a very good point

[@linzslove1]

There is a Lovecraft Country Syllabus for each episode that gives historical credit to the mentions created by The Langston League... amazing!!!

[@lydiamoon5235]

Thank you so much for recommending this resource. I never would have known otherwise. Much appreciated!

[@5TailFox]

"How society viewed Black people at the time.." You make it sound as if anything has changed.

[@MADKIDD623BHN]

...give him a break on that one fam ....lol.. He does a great job with his respect in his reviews....

[@Mugsy4512]

I agree...nothing has changed. He needs to stop talking like racism was in a certain part of history like the Spanish Flu 🙄

[@5TailFox]

@@MADKIDD623BHN Giving people a "break" is why nothing has changed.

[@TerraEmperor1]

He's also not from this country. In his past reviews he makes note of that and apologizes for any ignorance/lack of knowledge on the subject. He's doing his own research and learning along the way.

[@belovedandroid8999]

Lol, yeah because there are only two races/cultures/ backgrounds in this world, right? (Sarcastic). Give Heavy Spoilers a break is right. Other races live in the US as well and believe in the “American Dream” and sometimes struggle with Racism from both Whites & Blacks. Some things have changed for example we can all use the same water foundations, go to the same restrooms, apply and work in different jobs, go to the same restaurant, libraries, malls, movie theaters, carpool together, ride in the same bus, and so on (honestly, I could keep going to that would be too long). We as “Americans” have those privileges due to the people who fought for them before us and the people who fought beside them. We continue fighting (peacefully) for the future not the past like the ones who came before us. Other countries do not all have those privileges. I for one enjoy Heavy Spoilers reviews due to his research and understanding. I am done on my soapbox now.

[@NoniBinta]

Enjoyed the episode and anxiously waiting to see what they will do for Hippolyta's journey to the unknown. Though you say the elixir is from the blood of his mother but in the book it's actually from Dell, she worked for his father and was knocked unconscious by Letitia in the escape.

[@staceehouston7124]

Great breakdown! TBH I thought the police chiefs torso was black, meaning a black mans torso. I know it sounds crazy but ...

[@MADKIDD623BHN]

I thought so too....like....wearing skins...or whole body parts..he WAS down with epstein after all....

[@bgr5214]

Good eye. Didnt notice that.

[@nettricegaskins1871]

He was friends with evil scientist Hiram, so yeah. I think Hiram did a procedure on him and Lancaster may be a black man with white skin.

[@toshatalks8544]

Also, what if Lancaster may have had issues with his body and Hiram said I think I can fix that for ya, think about it!

[@JoanJimenez]

I think that they are tattoos.

[@nicolehadden5486]

Ruby was pissed that someone was less educated than she was. The cop Lancaster had a black mans chest so he too is experimenting and that scene reminded me a lot of “Get Out” I’m wondering if the William side is liking Ruby though. Another question the store manager I think still has that extra vial Ruby dropped out her purse in the interview.

[@mhayes5217]

Thanks so much! Your commentary on each episode is great. I enjoy hearing your perspective and it helps to clarify things on each episode.

[@56postoffice]

Being black *AND* gay in 1950s America, what a double whammy.

[@oranjmusemeyer968]

Yes, the first person I thought of was James Baldwin.

[@godlovesyou1951]

That was bottom of the social hierarchy, even a black woman would've been better off.

[@kushitespearman9394]

It can be a double whammy now.

[@TheFeltonLover]

God Loves you but what if you were a black gay woman? then where would you be on the totem pole?

[@DVal-oh5zw]

now imagine being a black gay woman *triple whammy*

[@ilikedontlike9320]

I laughed when Ruby went to work the next day after being in the closet, it's like people take your mental health days!!!

[@gingersnaps997]

Okay, William and Ruby did the "rumble tumble", but William was really Christina. That's just mind blowing. Christina was in a man's body who had sex with another woman, but the pure essence of William was Christina. So, the question is was William attracted to Ruby in his male form or was Christina attracted to Ruby? I'm so confused about the Ruby/William/Christina relationship. So, now that the cat is out of the bag, does this mean the William character is no more?

[@lashebawinston4906]

The way I interpreted it, Wiiliam and Christina are sharing a body, so William and Ruby smashed, not Christina and Ruby. I think William is genuinely enamored with Ruby.

[@101TexanNativez]

Not relevant.

[@gingersnaps997]

@@101TexanNativez neither is your response..serious responses only

[@101TexanNativez]

Ginger Snaps ok then seriously that shit was IRRELEVANT

[@Kissed_by_the_sunmoon]

That’s what I want to know too. Because Ruby said she was still her although transformed so if that’s the case Christina would still be herself in William’s body. 🤔

[@AdrianMoseley]

3:39 The lady involved confessed Emmitt Til did nothing to her in a 2017 publishing. Heartbreaking. Great breakdown!

[@Stef-Bef]

Definitely the most obvious twist ever lol. I don’t know why Montrose just won’t tell them what’s going on if he knows, it would make things easier and they could come up with an actual plan instead of moving on the fly.

[@khood614]

I just watched all of your Lovecraft breakdowns back to back. Very grateful for these videos. Keep up the good work!

[@irenev37]

Love love love your breakdowns!! I prefer when you mention what's coming the books as well.. dont be shy drop spoilers ;)

[@mahirgangwal1665]

Phenomenal Actors

[@MADKIDD623BHN]

All of them.... ..even Tree..lol Ruby, Cristina & Leti are my favorite people .....

[@joellgilbert9588]

Excellent cast!! My man. "Omar" from The Wire went back in time.😆

[@callumread5973]

This has gotta be the best use of body swapping I’ve ever seen in any media

[@BangTanPrettiNikki]

Look Definition!! If you keep breaking down these episodes so well while giving us a lesson on the issues in our society I’m gonna have invite you the the family cookout!!! Love this show and love this channel. Thanks buddy❤️

[@antonetteganues5717]

I watched last night and thought of you because I needed a breakdown of this episode. Oh my goodness, it hit home for me! Thank you for doing these. I listen to the podcast after the episode and it is great also. It's deep!

[@pumpkinspicetrashbag]

Those transformations were truly stomach churning

[@101TexanNativez]

Not as bad as the gay porn scene. 🤢🤮

[@serrahighsfinest]

@@101TexanNativez never watch Spartacus

[@modnarer]

As usual, killed it!

[@heavyspoilers]

Cheers

[@MADKIDD623BHN]

'Cheers'......is 'English' for 'FUCK YEAH'... .that's we say it in the states...lol

[@ozlekosusturu]

Great catch with the ad! Ugh the layers to be interpreted in this show love it

[@Warcheiftan]

christina and william seem so different tho, think they are sharing the same body but are different people

[@Katplaystoomuch]

Yea I think the brand binds william soul to the body. I think the story Christina told ruby is true that he was shot also she said she “saved” him but I think she is using him to make serum and turn into him. “The basement is the only room locked”

[@korbermeister1]

Yes I think they’re separating, becoming 2 people. Notice how in his transformation to Cristina, he didn’t look too happy, like he was resisting a bit. Also. Willia, tells ruby that the more it’s done, the easier it gets. If this is true then why was Cristina have such difficulty emerging out of William??

[@lashebawinston4906]

I think they are separate people....he seems genuinely into Ruby. Is anybody gonna say anything about him being Ubbe from Vikings?

[@dezzistayfly23]

@@lashebawinston4906 but if they are seperate how did she know what Ruby told William ?

[@lashebawinston4906]

@@dezzistayfly23 they inhabit the same body, so I think they can hear, and feel what the other is doing...they are magicians, maybe its different for them.

[@mahirgangwal1665]

I have a theory from Episode 3: Uncle George’s favorite book, Bram Stoker’s Dracula, plays an emotional part in last night’s episode of Lovecraft Country, but could its appearance mean something deeper? First of all, George first quoted Stoker’s vampire classic in Episode 1 while they were battling the shoggoths. Last night, though, we learn that Hippolyta has torn up his copy of the book in a rage-filled act of grief. Later Montrose (Michael K. Williams) finds a new copy in the groceries and she lies that she spilled coffee on the book. Even if that was the only reason to include the book - to show Hippolyta’s raw grief - it would be important. However we already know that books represent characters and tease plot developments in this show. Consider the ample Count of Monte Cristo references connected to Montrose and how he literally dug himself out of jail like the title character. Could it be that although - as the Ouija board said - “George is dead,” he could be poised for some kind of resurrection??

[@erikaalvarez5121]

I wish..i did like uncle George a lot ..hope they bring him back.

[@jeeither]

I saw a comment on a different channel, that the ouija board spelled out "George," "Is" - then cuts away, so potentially more letters could have been spelled out, then "dead." So maybe it actually spelled out "George isn't dead." But I didn't rewatch the scene to see if I agreed. I think it's interesting enough to share though.

[@tkrichards]

I was thinking he would return as Dracula, but I’m only guessing.

[@erikaalvarez5121]

Uncle George knows a lot ..he needs to come back !!!

[@bernardcalloway2205]

Well back at episode 3 when the kids were playing with the Board game , it kinda spelled out that George isn't Dead ' when it spelled it out , is does not have an N ' in it , that's also why Dee got so Upset and thought that her friends were pranking her " clear as day but people kept saying that the board said he was dead !

[@iamtrappedonanisland998]

Im really enjoying these reviews! I cant wait to watch next weeks video.. im the only one here watching this show so its nice to hear someone elses views! Thanx!

[@howardzochlinski43]

Excellent breakdown - but in some Eastern cultures, butterflies symbolize the soul. Something to consider.

[@LindamD]

The scene where Ruby is transforming on the plastic sheet on the floor there is a shot of the TV of a man with his mouth wide open in pain? Was that a version of maybe Dr jeckel Mr. Hyde at the height of transformation?

[@sandracarreira8419]

Loving these! I also read the book but now seeing the show, I missed so many details, your videos give the perfect insight!

[@HappyO_]

Thank you for your breakdowns. Ive been watching the episodes and then your breakdown of it. This episode has been the most unsettling to me thus far because of the transformations LOL. Keep up the great work and I look forward to more!

[@coreywharton6494]

I really appreciate your in depth breakdown and not shying away from the facts.

[@SuperTron10]

I love your breakdown videos. You do an excellent job of describing plot points that could otherwise be missed. Keep up the good work.

[@ABChi22]

I love these reviews! They help me piece it all together!

[@southcowgirl5042]

Awesome breakdown! Appreciate you!

[@ruffgirl1776]

Thank you for everything you do. I personally wait for your reviews 😊

[@heavyspoilers]

Ey thanks for supporting me

[@raskasscentral]

great job man. Kudos

[@SVGNATION]

Just wanted to say you are one of my favorite reviewers. I always watch your videos after watching an episode of one of my shows for further context. Keep up the great work Definition! 👍🏾

[@heavyspoilers]

Thank you

[@FightsRightsAlways]

Ruby:😳🤬🤬 YOU WERE WILLIAM THIS WHOLE DAMN TIME!?!?! Me: guuurrll...we've been knowing that for the last 2 episodes

[@janebutterfly9450]

Omg me and my husband just watched last night’s episode and dang I’m traumatized! Lmao! It was so disturbing and really pushed the limits.. kind of reminding me of American Horror Story, when you think you can’t go any further.. they do! BUT I really loved the storyline of Ruby, it was so heartbreaking and I think it applies so much to what’s happening even today. I also felt so much for Tic’s dad and seeing how so much of himself he’s been hiding! I’m dying for the next episode.

[@gabby.samuels5686]

My Grandma Work At Marshall Fields For Over 20years Back In The 50-60' She Was 20 When Started There😯😯😮

[@rayb4615]

i have always found it interesting that Vanilla Ice Cream is made from the Vanilla Bean which is brown. That its the dilution from the milk powder, sugar and cream that make it white. Im sure someone smarter than me can make that point to discuss in Lovecraft Country.

[@sydneyw4282]

I wouldn’t understand half of this show without you! Thank you!

[@mbm9907]

Imagine if this series did a crossover with American Horror Story. 🤯

[@bjennings02]

That haunted house episode gave me those vibes

[@boogzpough9068]

I like that thought

[@freshprince412np]

Hell no. Definitely not necessary.

[@TheBrewsterMillion]

No

[@mbm9907]

Spacely it definitely could would be dope, the supernatural elements would vibrate off one another.

[@kryssyd2]

I don't think the character of the black boy from the beginning of the episode is a representation of Emmett Till because we've already got a representation of Emmett Till. He's Dee's friend and last episode they went to Bobo's house to read Comics. Bobo is Emmett Till's nickname. We also have the scene where the kids are playing with the Ouija board in the basement at the house party and when Bobo asked will he have a good trip the Ouija board says no, hinting to the fact that we know he will be killed on this trip from a historic View.

[@lauriepowell3959]

The DOVE SKIN WASH ad was on right before this episode, hee, hee.

[@st3althyone]

Really loving these deep dives into the episodes, and loving the show, it’s really progressing nicely.

[@GeeklyGoods]

Couldn't agree more! This show is back to some nice progress. Really digging that

[@fc8240]

I didn't know you or your reviews, but this was one of the most thorough content reviews that I've heard in a long time. Wow. Very literary. Unexpected. Maybe, because you have read the book. And reviewed it already.Or, maybe this is your style. Whatever, it is...thank you. Well done you! I enjoyed it very much And I'm curious to hear first 4 episodes now and any other reviewed material. Question: do you live in states now or still in the UK? I guess I'm asking, because I watch a lot of British, Spanish, French, German, Italian, danish, Israeli, Turkish TV n Arab films. And I wondered if you also reviewed European n what Americans call international content. I'm a sucker for following smart and humorous reviewers that know & enjoy what they're talking about. Regardless, thanks again!

[@MsMulatto89]

Totally loved this breakdown, quick and the point and didn't feel like I was re watching the ep. from start to finish

[@georgenoyes2904]

You’re such a good reviewer! Thanks for the proper commentary.

[@leejohnson4023]

Excellent Breakdown! I’m impressed by your research and breadth of knowledge. Please keep it up.

[@heavyspoilers]

Thank you

[@MoonSpeaksTV]

Amazing breakdown , this show gets better with every single episode!

[@GeeklyGoods]

This one was a knockout! So excited to see what's next!