Episode 8 of Pachinko begins In Osaka 1938. Noa is picked up from school by Isak and taken home. He tries to convince a fellow student to stand up for himself, given he's being bullied by his peers. Back home, there are birthday celebrations for Noa's brother, Mozasu. Before we leave, there's a beautiful scene at the end of the show where several Korean women, survivors from this turbulent time in Japan, are interviewed. This alone helps to give a snapshot of what life was life, and it's an amazing addition to an excellent series. Pachinko has been beautifully illustrated across its 8 episodes and while the ending is going to leave many curious regarding the fate of this utterly absorbing and heartbreaking story, it seems almost academic at this point that Apple will renew this. I mean, if Truth Be Told and Greatness Code can both get second seasons then there's no reason why this one can't!
Pachinko's final episode is a beautiful demonstration of survival; the personification of backing a lion into the corner and watching as it strikes back with fierce determination. Both Sunja and Solomon have this same trait, with the former selling kimchi in the street and the latter determined to fight back against his employers no matter what. The story involving Isak is tough to watch though and seeing that he was a rebel is pretty shocking. Keeping the camera at Noa's level, seeing all of this almost through his eyes, is a really clever stylistic choice and it's an understated quality that I'm sure many are going to overlook with this one. However, Pachinko should not be overlooked. This is a solid show and a beautifully presented journey. It's clear that this isn't the final destination for any of these characters, and I don't know about you guys, but I may have to read the book after watching this! Pachinko's final episode is a beautiful demonstration of survival; the personification of backing a lion into the corner and watching as it strikes back with fierce determination. Both Sunja and Solomon have this same trait, with the former selling kimchi in the street and the latter determined to fight back against his employers no matter what.
