Fear the Walking Dead Season 3 Episode 5 Review: Burning in Water, Drowning in Flame

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O Ofelia, Ofelia, wherefore art thou Ofelia?

On Fear the Walking Dead Season 3 Episode 5, Daniel continued his search for his daughter, while Madison tagged along with Troy, as he led a few of his men on a trek to investigate the outpost that lost connection with the ranch.

Fear the Walking Dead has been stellar so far this season. This episode, however, left little to be desired. However, this installment wasn't without its share of interesting moments, revelations, and double crosses.

Looking on - Fear the Walking Dead Season 3 Episode 5

After a string of solid episodes, which included the rise of Daniel Salazar last week on Fear the Walking Dead Season 3 Episode 4, this episode just fell a bit flat.

As we continue down the long, winding road of redemption for Fear the Walking Dead this season, it was inevitable that we would eventually hit a speed bump.

But for the sake of story progression, it's easily forgivable.

At the ranch, it seems Alicia's long drug and alcohol fueled nights with her new friends have been taking a toll on her. Gretchen revealed that the elderly man who perished in the fire to open the episode was one of the founding fathers of the ranch with Jeremiah.

Alicia thought this was an opportune time to head over to Jake's place and jump his bones.

Jake and Alicia sitting in a tree. - Fear the Walking Dead Season 3 Episode 5

Well, that escalated quickly.

That whole situation just felt weird, but in Alicia's defense, her conversation with Jake insinuated that she just wants to live life and throw caution to the wind.

Caution, along with her shirt, bra, etc.

The whole idea of Alicia living her life was further touched upon when she dove off the dive, symbolically letting go. Perhaps jumping off the deep end for Jake?

Nick's talk with Jeremiah also shed new light on the town. The home that burned down at the top of the hour was not only the first building on the land but also Jeremiah's original home.

A few kind words - Fear the Walking Dead Season 3 Episode 5

Their talk about making things new again was a tender moment, as they both scraped the charred walls of the house.

Jeremiah confiding in Nick about what finally made him stop drinking was a fun quip and added some humor to an otherwise serious conversation.

Jeremiah later presenting Nick with the restored colt was some more symbolism of how things that were thought to be ruined can be made beautiful again.

Luciana is still on her road to recovery, and still anxious to leave the ranch. I can't say I blame her, after all, she is staying with the same people who attacked her and Nick on Fear the Walking Dead Season 2 Episode 15.

But Nick seems to have persuaded Luciana to consider remaining at the ranch, at least for now.

Speaking of recovering, Troy's eye is healing up quite nicely. It's just a shame that even though he has two eyes, he couldn't foresee the danger that ensued.

Search party - Fear the Walking Dead Season 3 Episode 5

As Madison was packing up to accompany the team, I found it humorous when one of Troy's men belittled her about not being able to handle herself. Madison made a snappy comeback to the effect that her family did just fine on their own.

You go, Madison, don't take crap from anyone!

That guy quickly ate his words when he saw how capable Madison was after a run-in with some infected on the road.

We did eventually learn a vital piece of information during the trip with Madison: the Native American group is who shot down the helicopter causing Travis' death on Fear the Walking Dead Season 3 Episode 2.

Madison: It's just a game to you.
Troy: No, it's not a game. It's my calling.

Apparently, Jeremiah's ranch was built on their reservation, and they are holding a serious grudge over it. This group will play a much larger role as the season progresses, especially since Madison will now be out for vengeance.

On the hike back to the ranch, Madison hit a few nerves with Troy, using his mommy issues against him when he refused to let his team rest for the night.

Madison's demeaning words almost got her throat slit in the middle of the night. One of Troy's men watched and then turned the other cheek.

It's always nice to know everyone has your back and will intervene at any moment, right?

There is some weird relationship brewing between Troy and Madison, which also explains his hesitance at following through. This odd connection goes all the way back to their first encounter on Fear the Walking Dead Season 3 Episode 1.

It's as if he has some warped fascination with Madison, which likely stems from his mommy issues. I really don't know what to make of it, other than it creeps me out.

The secondary story focused on Daniel's continued search for Ofelia. Daniel wisely took Strand along for the trip, knowing that his word means absolutely nothing.

Something's wrong - Fear the Walking Dead Season 3 Episode 5

When they arrived at the Rosarito, it was obvious something was seriously wrong. What the heck happened? Things seemed to be under control when Strand was forced out on Fear the Walking Dead Season 3 Episode 2.

Of course, Ofelia was not there, and Daniel knew that. It was merely an effort to finally pull the truth out of Strand.

When Daniel rang the "dinner bell," he finally learned the truth, only to leave Strand for dead moments later. I'm just as curious as Daniel as to how Strand will get himself out of this one.

But he will.

It was a somewhat lazy attempt to create tension with the infected pouring into the lobby and encompassing Strand, but was his life ever really in jeopardy? Of course not.

Daniel: Drive through them Victor.
Strand: I'm not going to damage this vehicle.
Daniel: I'm going to damage you if you don't move!

After a series of mishaps, Strand seems to be on the road toward some form of a redemption arc. It's safe to say that Coleman Domingo will be around for some time.

As for Ofelia? She's still missing.

Daniel finally learned some information about Ofelia, but it's not much of a lead. At this point, it seems the only way these two will find each other is by accident. You know Ofelia isn't looking for her father since he believes him to be dead.

No matter how they reunite or when, it will be a moment worth waiting for.

What did you think of "Burning in Water, Drowning in Fire"? 

Where you surprised that Daniel left Strand behind? How do you think he will get out of his current predicament? Will Alicia and Jake form a romantic relationship or do you think it was a one time deal? What do you think of Madison and Troy's odd relationship? 

Sound off below, and let me know!

You can always watch watch Fear the Walking Dead online right here at TV Fanatic!

Burning in Water, Drowning in Flame Review

Editor Rating: 3.0 / 5.0
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Rating: 3.6 / 5.0 (10 Votes)
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Fear the Walking Dead Season 3 Episode 5 Quotes

Save the water...let it burn.

Jeremiah

Daniel: Drive through them Victor.
Strand: I'm not going to damage this vehicle.
Daniel: I'm going to damage you if you don't move!