‘Me’ Recap: ‘Lines in the Sand’

Written by John Edward Betancourt

Jonathan Bergman and Lucian-River Chauhan in Episode 102 of ‘Me’ – ‘Line in the Sand’. (Photo Courtesy of Apple.)

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Two of ‘Me’. To revisit the Series Premiere, click here.
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For the most part, superhero origin stories, steer clear of using superpowers as allegories for the human condition. Instead, their journey in print or on screen, involves discovering the best parts of who we are. How we can be heroes in our own way and harbor our own superpowers, so that we walk out of the theater or put that comic down feeling inspired. Which isn’t a bad thing by any means… since it does do just that while giving us a thrilling story. But it does leave one to wonder, if superhero stories could go deeper and do more with the powers that come into play. Which is a question, that the Apple TV+ series, Me, is answering in the affirmative.

For its next episode showcased how superhero origin stories and the powers obtained by once and future heroes, can serve as learning tools and speak to the human condition. A feat that ‘Line in the Sand’ accomplished by immediately following up on Ben’s surprise transformation in the premiere. Because he was rightfully confused and unsettled over the fact that he could change form like that and just immerse himself in the face of another person. Which prompted he and Abby to try and figure out how it worked, why it happened and if by chance it could happen again. An exploration that went pretty much nowhere early on, that is until… he and Abby discovered a trigger.

In that, if there was a strong surge of emotions, the kind that in this instance related to injustice, he could transform and once he cooled down, Ben’s face would return once again. But that moment, combined with the frustration of not being to control it willingly, and dealing with more emotions over his family’s new standing… spoke volumes to how superhero powers here… served as exploration of what it means to grow up at Ben’s age. Of how there are emotions and changes that we barely understand at that age surging through us and confusing us and we are, like Ben, unable to control them or understand them. A move that relates to the coming of age feel of this story and it makes Ben’s journey relatable to all and speaks to the wonder of the writing here.

Because that is… the perfect way to use superhero powers to teach and explore the human condition and well, at this point… you’re likely wondering how any of that is superhero related. Because at no point did Ben look to the sky and fly like Superman, he just… battled his feels. Well, that was handled in a unique manner. In that, we know now in the future that Ben has teamed up with Carter and is learning how to master his power for reasons that involve high stakes. The kind that includes villains and abilities that can save the world. Since we also learned that Detective Kennedy has been harboring secrets about Carter and what she is capable of. 

All of which continues to set the stage for an epic season of storytelling. One where a hero will rise of course, and likely accomplish wonders against nefarious forces we have yet to understand. While at the same time, using the mastery of his powers to come of age and understand the man he wants to be. To help so many understand their own journey into adulthood and help them navigate the troubled waters that is part of growing up. Which makes this series continue to be brilliant and engaging and downright fascinating. Since it is a refreshing take on the superhero genre, and it will be interesting to see what other unique explorations take place as Ben comes to learn more about his powers… and himself. Until next time.

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