‘The Wilds’ Recap: ‘Day 42/15’

Written by John Edward Betancourt

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 204 of ‘The Wilds’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
​
One particular question we ask ourselves during times of boredom, or during random conversations with friends… is what we would bring with us, if by chance we ever found ourselves stranded on a deserted island. Which is a question that is designed, to help us to understand our mental strength, because deep down we know that at some point, being stranded away from humanity on an island, would pressure us and put us in a tough spot mentally. So, whatever items we bring, should in fact prevent that. But while that answer brings us comfort and a greater understanding of what brings us joy… that is quite the loaded question, one that deserves a follow-up exploration.

Because it does leave one to wonder, what would we become if by chance… those items weren’t available? Would that tough mental state allow for us to lose complete control of our mental faculties without our favorite book or song present in isolation to soothe us? Or would we find a new way to pass the time and focus our minds, so we don’t feel ourselves slipping into some kind of darkness and/or madness. If anything, those particular concerns and questions are top of mind today, simply because the next episode of The Wilds on Prime Video explores both sides of the equation... and that makes ‘Day 42/15’ quite the fascinating and thoughtful tale when all is said and done.

Since it really wastes little time in answering the question, that the majority of people… would likely do their best to focus on other endeavors in order to keep their mind off of their situation and the madness that could stem from being stranded. As evidenced by how both camps handled their business in this tale. The girls for instance, poured all of their resources and time into throwing Dot a grand birthday party. To bring joy to the island and happiness to their hearts and it was fascinating to see how something uplifting could motivate everyone to come together in this manner. As for the boys, well they were keen to focus all of their efforts and energies on trapping the jaguar to keep their food and selves, safe and that too… was helpful and productive since they were unified and successful in bringing that cat down. 

Which are two plot threads that really appear to have no room to explore anything darker, since a pair of wins should have kept everyone happy. But instead, these two plot threads spoke volumes to the importance of keeping our minds occupied during serious times of strife and what could happen without that stimulation. Because the instant the joy wore off at the birthday party, Rachel’s mind drifted back to the sorrow that’s been eating at the back of her mind. To the point where Shelby had to step in and help and… well… things got really ugly in the boys’ camp. Because the pressures of being isolated and unable to escape the male toxicity present within this group… pushed Seth in some twisted mental territory and motivated him to conduct a genuinely disgusting act. One that will undoubtedly have serious and justified repercussions.

In fact, it is definitely safe to say that everyone watching, and all of the boys, should now have serious concerns about Seth and his mental state. Since what he did, is about as disgusting as it gets. But while we wait to see what comes out of his despicable actions, in the meantime, this particular episode deserves praise. Because this was a brave and bold tale… one that really took the time to dive deep into the human condition by exploring what we become when tough times and incredible circumstances push us and truly, it will be both heartbreaking and disturbing to see where this story takes us next. Because more tough challenges await these groups, since Gretchen has already spoken to how many days it took… to break them all completely, and we are nearing those all-important and unfortunate dates. Until next time.

---

Powered by JustWatch