With the conclusion of Silo’s second season and confirmation of a third and fourth season, much time has opened up to reflect on the latest additions to the Apple TV+ series. Set in a post-apocalyptic world where survivors live underground, in fully-functional silos, the series largely focuses on Juliette Nichols (Rebecca Ferguson), a cynical, jaded engineer who is introduced to a brand-new world following her mysterious promotion to sheriff. Up close with the people behind the silo’s stratification, Juliette discovers a set of discrepancies that unearths a conspiracy that submerges the entire silo into seas of doubt, fear, and skepticism.
Simultaneously, the show follows Juliette’s (Rebecca Ferguson) expedition outside the silo and the silo’s growing disillusionment with the lies and counter-intuitive propaganda spread by the elite. With a greater focus on familiar faces and the introduction of new, engaging characters, the story grows for the better. Inching closer to the jaw-dropping finale, the show takes its sweet time, using every second as a building block, leaving audiences with a skyscrapers’ worth of material.
10
Camille Intervenes and Helps Knox and Shirley
Episode 5 – “Descent”
As Mechanical’s plans for revolt become increasingly clear, Bernard devises a plan to quell dissent and shift feelings of betrayal, aggrievement and fear to the lower-class silo-dwellers. Framing them for an irrevocable crime, Walker (Harriett Walter), Shirley (Remnie Milner), Knox (Shane Mcrae), and Carla (Clare Perkins) are forced to split up and find their own methods for escape. Realizing that they do not have time or space in their favor, Shirley and Knox attempt to find their way to safety with the little resources they have. Appearing just before the mob can reach them, former IT worker Camille Sims (Alexandria Riley) guides them through a fail-proof path back to the lower rungs of the silo.
The Significance of Camille’s Chess Move
One of the best attributes of Silo is its clever storytelling. The unpredictability that runs through the story does not only present itself in clearer examples, such as the divide among the silo-dwellers following Juliette’s revelation, but also appears in dark horses that create discord that threatens the establishment.
Silently, or otherwise, the characters like Lukas Kyle (Avi Nash) and Camille, rely on their knowledge and discernment of themselves and others, moving accordingly and striking with precision. Camille’s intervention not only clues audiences in on her role later in the season, but also illustrates the possibilities of overlooked individuals harnessing power for their own pursuits.
9
Walker Reveals Her True Allegiance
Episode 10 – “Into the Fire”
Throughout the season, the introverted Martha Walker has long been revered as one of the most important members of Mechanical, even if she herself refuses to admit it. Despite her harsh language and seemingly reserved behavior, Walker has also proved to be considerate and crafty. Thus, when Bernard approaches her and subsequently coerces her into spying on his behalf, one can not help but feel a certain level of panic and despair.
As IT’s sabotage and surveillance continues, Walker’s condition continues to grow more strenuous, culminating in a bitter confrontation with Shirley, Knox, and Carla, the latter of whom delivers a venomous rebuttal to Walker, her spite stemming from their previous marriage coupled with the monumental betrayal.
Walker’s Complexities Surface and Shines
Despite all seeming grim for Mechanical, Walker’s one-on-one meeting with Bernard leads to another explosive revelation. Hinted at during Walker and Knox’s conversation at the end of the previous episode, Mechanical arranged a plan to thwart Bernard’s plot by feeding him misinformation. The subtlety of the plan even left viewers somewhat skeptical. Not only does this pivotal moment reaffirm Mechanical and the audiences of Walker’s values, but it also underlines the suffocating power of a tyrannical government. Juxtaposing Walker’s loyalty with Bernard’s hubris, the remainder of the second season morphs into a genuine power shift.
8
The Survivors of Silo 17 Emerge
Episode 8 – “The Book of Quinn”
Throughout the first half of the season, viewers find Juliette navigating the difficult terrain, as well as the desolate Silo 17. After finding and working alongside Solo, portrayed by Steve Zahn, Juliette inches closer to obtaining a functioning suit that would allow her to return to Silo 18.
Much of the previous episode, “The Dive,” is dedicated to Juliette and Solo’s quid-pro-quo agreement, with the former agreeing to fix a water pump in exchange for the resources necessary for her return. In the final moments, however, Juliette resurfaces to find Solo gone, and evidence of a bloody scuffle. Once again confronting the reality that more people reside in Silo 17 than believed, Juliette intends to find Solo before finding any more danger lurking around.
An Authentic, Tender Look at Complicated Conflict
Once confronted with another inhabitant, Juliette narrowly avoids death but quickly learns about the relationship dynamics between Audrey (Georgina Sadler), Rick (Orlando Norman), Hope (Sara Hazemi) and their younger companions. Sitting in the discomfort of the group’s tense relationship, as well as their adversarial relationship with Solo, Juliette attempts to unearth the truth in hopes of eliminating the toxic resentment that threatens to further destabilize Silo 17. Despite their shorter tenure, the Silo 17 inhabitants propel the story forward, painting a picture of the tragedy that shrouds the world they live in.
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7
Bernard and Meadows’ Final Conversation
Episode 4 – “The Harmonium”
Earlier in the season, audiences are introduced to Mayor Meadows (Tanya Moodie). Initially siloed off from the rest of the community, a new-found curiosity about the world above fuels her engagement with more members of the silo. While her interactions remain limited to Bernard and Lukas, she manages to assert her power, commanding attention from the aforementioned two characters and the audiences alike.
A Compelling Relationship that Opens the Season
As her curiosity eats away at her, Meadows stresses to Bernard that she wants to walk out and clean. Deemed by many as a punishment prior to Juliette’s departure, the request is puzzling to say the least. However, her role as Mayor allows for her request to gain some consideration, even if it is to her detriment. During a pivotal dinner with Bernard, the two discuss the recent discord throughout the silo. Mid-conversation, the dinner turns dark quickly as Meadows consumes the mushrooms Bernard poisoned.
Despite experiencing the worst portrayal, it is this moment where Bernard and Meadows appear as kindred spirits, the former consoling Meadows and giving her a glimpse of life before the global, cataclysmic event. Between giving Meadows a worthwhile send-off and offering audiences a chance to look at Bernard in a different, sympathetic light.
6
Paul and Hank Unite in Defense of the Truth
Episode 5 – “Descent”
Paul Billings (Chinaza Uche) and Hank (Billy Postlethwaite) are two characters that fans have followed since the inception of the series. Despite their allegiance to IT, the series has followed their respective journeys towards truth and justice. The second season, for instance, sees them fully defect to Mechanical after a series of discrepancies changes their perspective of life in the Silo and their roles in maintaining order, even if it comes at the detriment of the entire population.
A Well-Deserved Evolution, or Two
The episode in question finds Hank and Paul discussing the various contradictions coming from the higher ups in the wake of Juliette’s exile. Throughout the season, both characters have voiced their concerns about the events leading up to Juliette’s punishment, and the discord that ensued afterward. Following Patrick Kennedy (Rick Gomez), a prime suspect accused of fanning the flames of a clash between Mechanical and law enforcement. Once they discover Patrick, who shrewdly informs them of the disinformation they have been fed, both Hank and Paul embark on a riveting journey towards the truth.
Between Hank’s discernment and Paul’s transformative trek towards the truth, these two characters take control of their own lives, resulting in an enthralling display of character development.
5
Juliette Learns of Multiple Silos
Episode 3 – “Solo”
The majority of Season 2 sees Juliette navigating Silo 17, its inhabitants, and the various secrets that lie under the surface. While discussing the events that led to the breakdown of Silo 17, Solo and Juliette also discuss the fundamental functions of the silo itself, as well as the existence of multiple others, 50 to be exact. While discussed in the context of Juliette’s actions, Solo stresses the fragility of each silo. Much like Silo 17, Silo 18 is at risk of collapse due to a collective interest in the exterior, prompted by the revelations seen in the season 1 finale.
An Exemplary Advancement of Character and Story
The existence of multiple silos not only begs the audience to question the truth behind the calamities that resulted in humanity going underground, but it also illustrates the inherent weakness of tyrannical governments. Through harsh repression and surveillance, the operation and sustenance of the silos are identical to the maintenance of authoritarian governments. Their survival is dependent on censorship, disinformation, and isolation, but it is that very method of repression that exacerbates tensions and ultimately leads to their demise.
Furthermore, the audience gets a greater understanding of Solo. Initially introduced as socially awkward and a threat to Juliette’s survival, this conversation not only complicates said perception but also reintroduces Solo as an intelligent and resourceful person, traits that Juliette takes note of as she attempts to find her way back to Silo 18.
4
Lukas Discovers the Safeguard Procedure
Episode 9 – “The Safeguard”
Lukas is one of many characters that emerge from the discord spurned by IT. Initially, he was introduced as another curious soul, spending his nights in the cafeterias looking at the odd lights in the sky. However, as time passed, his curiosity and assistance provided to Juliette resulted in his incarceration. At the beginning of Season 2, Lukas is sentenced to five years in the mines, a heavily implied death sentence due to the difficulty of the job. Saved at the last minute by Bernard, Lukas becomes his shadow and morphs into one of the most imperative characters of the season.
Sinking One’s Teeth Into the Terrifying Truth
As the finale approaches, Lukas is another defector to Mechanical, confiding in Shirley about his relationship with Juliette, as well as their shared suspicions about what lies beneath the Silo’s waters. Once he makes the treacherous trip alone, he discovers a tunnel leading to a closed vault.
Once inside said tunnel, Lukas is greeted by a cold, firm voice that introduces itself as the Safeguard Procedure. Instructing him to keep this moment a secret, Lukas leaves, enlightened yet terrified about what this discovery means for the silo. Not only is this a defining experience for Lukas, but it also shatters the illusion of the silo as a simple refuge, teasing a far more nefarious truth than anyone could predict.
3
Shirley and Knox unite Mechanical
Episode 4 – “The Harmonium”
Shirley and Knox have never seen eye to eye. With Shirley’s more direct, confrontational approach to improving the lived experiences of those in Mechanical, juxtaposed with Knox’s willingness to compromise and slyly collect information, the two not only take the reins for season 2’s story, but they also provide quality banter and tension. The fourth episode sees the pair converse about their shared goals for Mechanical, as well as their concern over Juliette. It is this conversation that serves as a sturdy enough bridge for the two to unite and lead Mechanical against IT.
Likeminded Souls Unite for the Better
Knox and Shirley’s conversation not only lays the foundation for Mechanical’s revolt, but the scene also allows viewers to see both characters removed from their prickly exteriors. As they discuss the history of the silo, as well as the discrimination both face as a result of their roles in Mechanical, Knox and Shirley also confide in each other about how Juliette’s exile personally affected them. It is during this moment of vulnerability that an impenetrable trust forms between the two, carrying them, and the rest of Mechanical to the upper rungs of the silo, determined to enact worthwhile change.
2
Daniel and Helen’s Revealing Discussion
Episode 10 – “Into The Fire”
The season finale leaves audiences with a scene that further broadens the horizons of what to expect from Silo in its third season. As viewers are left with the uncertainty of the fate of two crucial characters, the show quickly transitions and dedicates the episode’s last ten minutes to focus on a date-turned-interview between Daniel (Ashley Zukerman), a US Congressman, and Helen (Jessica Henwick), a journalist. As the conversation continues, Daniel and Helen discuss an apparent attack on the United States, conducted by Iran. When Helen offers pushback of her own, Daniel becomes reluctant to share any more information and ends the date early.
A Stellar Set-Up for the Next Season
Much of the season has been dedicated to unearthing secrets of the past. Characters like Meadows and Lukas are uniquely curious about the functions of the world, namely the stars, the flora, and the fauna. Thus, the confrontation between Daniel and Helen may seem jarring at first, but it remains perfectly in-sync with one of the main discussions that ties the season together.
Hinting towards a nuclear or biochemical apocalypse stemming from a false flag attack, the scene reminds audiences of the hubris and thirst for power that clearly results in the grotesque transformation of the planet, but also haunts the silo as the same reliance on misinformation and fear leads to a similar breakdown of civilization.
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1
Juliette and Solo’s Touching Conversation
Episode 9 – “The Safeguard”
Juliette and Solo’s relationship is one of the season’s key storylines. Morphing from an alliance as a means of survival into a genuine friendship, the two experience a volatile yet considerate relationship that informs audiences about the world of Silo and the consequences of their respective ancestors. Initially, Juliette meets a tense Solo, whose threats and outbursts stem from a need to protect Silo 17. However, as the two work together to find the former a usable suit to return home, the two exchange insightful words about life as well as a sincere concern for each other’s safety and survival.
Compassion, an Immortal Entity
In the penultimate episode, Juliette learns of Solo’s real name, Jimmy, and the source of his trauma. This information not only diffuses the tense stand-off between Solo and the young, abandoned survivors of Silo 17, but it eventually leads to the group gaining access to the coveted fault, full of relics from the past as well as intriguing technology. As they take the time to recuperate, Juliette and Solo reflect on their shared history, to which Juliette informs Solo that she found a functioning suit while investigating the silo with Hope. Upon this realization, Solo asks Juliette “Why didn’t you leave?”.
The impeccable performances from Ferguson and Zahn illustrate just how deep their character’s bonds are. Without saying a word, the two come to a mutual understanding that their experience in the Silo has forever bonded them as close confidantes. Stares baked with sincerity and a warm hug leave audiences with the comfort of knowing that compassion thrives even after civilization collapses.