Hold onto your hats Reacher fans because episode 6 of Season 3 "Smoke on the Water" just detonated! Things went from simmering tension to full-blown explosion in this one and we are here to break it all down for you . Get ready for betrayals bullets and maybe even a little romance because this episode packed a serious punch.
Cover Blown and Action On! Reacher's Escape from Beck's Mansion Turns Rambo-esque
Remember how Reacher was playing double agent as Zachary Beck's lieutenant? Yeah well that charade is over. In a move that's both expected and still nail-biting Reacher's cover gets spectacularly blown. Turns out Quinn aka McCabe figured out someone was snooping around and guess who gets the blame? Our favorite drifter of course.
But Reacher being Reacher doesn't just stand there and take it. Nope he turns escape into an art form. Think tire-slashing snowplow-stealing action hero mode. The escape from Beck's mansion is pure adrenaline but it’s just the appetizer. Things go full Rambo when Reacher ends up in the woods pursued by Quinn's goons. Mud camouflage face paint the works! Alan Ritchson really gets to flex his action chops in this sequence and it is brutal and brilliant to watch.
Forest Fights Boat Battles and Laundry Laughter: Episode 6 Action Sequence Highlights
This episode is an action feast. The forest fight is a standout showcasing Reacher's raw combat skills and tactical thinking. He takes down those killers with dispassionate efficiency. And let's not forget the confrontation on Harley's boat "Sweet Marie". Reacher and Duffy infiltrate the boat to look for Teresa and things predictably go sideways. Cue another intense action set piece and a fiery farewell to Harley. Justice served cold and very very hot.
But amidst all the explosions and gunfire there is a lighter moment too. After the boat scene Reacher and Duffy end up doing laundry at a laundromat. Imagine Jack Reacher doing laundry! There is even a funny exchange with an elderly couple despite a language barrier. It is a brief but welcome bit of levity in an otherwise intense episode and shows Ritchson's range beyond just the tough guy persona.
Richard's Test Betrayal and the Reacher Effect: Character Relationships Take Center Stage
Episode 6 is not just about action it is also about character. Richard Beck finally figures out Reacher's true identity. Initially upset at the betrayal the connection between Reacher and Richard remains strong. Zachary Beck even gets jealous of the bond forming between his son and Reacher. It's almost darkly humorous.
The Russian Roulette scene is a major turning point. Quinn forces Richard to play and Zachary is forced to watch. It mirrors the test Zachary gave Reacher earlier in the season. But Richard surprises everyone. Instead of pointing the gun at himself he points it at Quinn showing a spark of defiance and bravery. It is the "Reacher effect" in action. Reacher's presence is changing Richard for the better and testing the father-son dynamic in compelling ways.
Neagley's Back and Badder Than Ever: Fan Favorite Returns to Kick Ass and Take Names
Good news Neagley fans! Frances Neagley makes a triumphant return in "Smoke on the Water" and she wastes no time getting back into the thick of things. After a brief cameo earlier in the season she is now fully back in the Reacher mix. And of course Neagley gets her own action sequence taking down two assassins sent after her in her Chicago office.
Neagley is just as ruthless and efficient as Reacher dispatching the hitmen with cold precision. She even casually eats cereal while questioning a dying assailant showing her trademark blend of badassery and dry humor. Her return is a welcome shot of energy and sets up a potentially explosive team-up with Reacher in the episodes to come. The dynamic between Reacher and Neagley is always a highlight and this episode reminds us why.
Sunscreen and Suspects: Reacher and Duffy Head to Los Angeles in Cliffhanger Ending
And just when you thought things could not get any more intense Episode 6 throws us a curveball. Reacher and Duffy are heading to Los Angeles! Why LA? We are not entirely sure yet but Reacher tells Duffy to "Pack your sunscreen". It is a classic Reacher-esque cliffhanger leaving us desperate for episode 7.
There is even a hint of romance brewing between Reacher and Duffy. They share a kiss and there's some playful banter about stolen glances. Reacher is not known for his long-term relationships but these fleeting connections always add another layer to the character. Will their partnership turn into something more in LA? We will have to wait and see but the chemistry is definitely there.
CBR Episode Scores for Reacher Season 3 So Far:
| Number | Title | Score |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | "Persuader" | 8/10 |
| 2 | "Truckin'" | 8/10 |
| 3 | "Number 2 With a Bullet" | 8/10 |
| 4 | "Dominique" | 9/10 |
| 5 | "Smackdown" | 8/10 |
The Endgame Approaches: Reacher Season 3 Builds to an Explosive Finale
Episode 6 "Smoke on the Water" is a turning point for Reacher Season 3. The cover is blown alliances are tested and the stakes are higher than ever. The action is top-notch the character development is compelling and the plot is hurtling towards a thrilling conclusion. With just two episodes left Reacher Season 3 is in its endgame now and it looks like it is going to be an explosive ride to the finish line. Buckle up and get ready for LA because things are about to get even wilder.