Black Lagoon: Episode 08-09

The strings of a Spanish guitar float in the air. A chambermaid steps into center stage. She dances.

With her lightning-quick moves, graceful leaps, and peculiar partner, the stoic Roberta outclasses the temperamental Revy. In fairness, it is Revy’s heroics, which caused her injury and concussion. Revy surprises audiences with instinctive protectiveness, first, for Rock, and second, for the Yellow Flag’s bartender. Could she possibly be a softie at heart? Probably not.

A delivery gone wrong. Lagoon Inc.’s latest commission lands them into the usual tight spot. The maid from beyond a.k.a Bloodhound tracks their package and pursues them with frightening efficiency. Her laundry list contains typical chores of a loyal servant. Blasting up a few Colombians, knocking Revy unconscious, car jacking, and outmaneuvering Benny are a fraction of the completed outline. Isn’t Roberta a versatile helper?

Black comedy oozes in spurts. The crew trades quips in a round table discussion amidst gunfire. A running gag between Revy’s debts and the bartender blows the crew’s cover. Rock throws in a Terminator crack with a punch line unfavorable to the pirates. Moreover, the mere fact that Roberta is dressed in her a frilly black maid outfit, complete with thick glasses and braids, induces smirking and chortling.

Once again, Black Lagoon exceeds expectation. However, going by episode, the eight installment seems a weak chapter by itself. Nevertheless, setting up the groundwork is essential for the payoff in the ninth episode and possibly for the climactic tenth.

Random thoughts. Boo to the news that Black Lagoon will run for a mere twelve episodes.