@LOKI REVIEW: The second episode takes us deeper into the power of #TIME, reveals the instability of the "greatest power in the universe" and introduces us to those who manipulate - and who manipulate time - in a way which sets the course for the future of the MCU!

Ready for a spoiler-free review?

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Loki agrees to help the Time Variance Authority and Mobius, played by Owen Wilson. We get to know the word "variant" and the idea that many "variants" have been manipulating the flow of time in the Universe - aka - the "sacred timeline." Loki, as is his way, gives bits and pieces of information, offers his insights as an "advisor" of sorts to the TVA as they pursue this "variant" Loki who they believe is causing some serious insanity to the sacred timeline.

Loki's made some excellent points about how to catch... himself. The "superior" version of himself. Many mental games in play... on both sides, but it's Loki who, while being "10 steps ahead" of the TVA gives some intel which leads the TVA to move thisclose to finding the variant they're looking for.

From the past - to the future - Loki and Mobius test a God-of Mischief-Inspired theory which leads the duo - and the TVA - to a place where misdirection meets more misdirection... and amid the misdirection... Loki stumbles across... direction. But who is providing the direction? What does it mean to the "sacred timeline" and what does it mean for reality? It's not as simple as it seems, and, while watching it, you'll say, "damn, this... is messy."

Chaos gives way to a degree of order and Loki, who seems to be moved by his own death - as well as the destruction of Asgard - makes a decision which leads to anyone watching wanting more.

This episode promises a cascade of nexus-level events... all of which seem to be like instruments in an orchestra which must be played - and directed - by a composer who has already written the end of the symphony. This episode elevates the storyline to the point of a crescendo... but... what if that crescendo could go higher?

What if? What if whatever happens means nothing because it doesn't matter?

Damn... time is powerful... a stone-less Infinity Stone...

... so how does it all end for a god who always loves to be right?

You've gotta watch.

LOKI. Streaming now on Disney+. New episodes out every Wednesday. Stream at will!

Toby Knapp

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