We all know where this is going. The history books attest that there is no magical escape for Booth (Anthony Boyle), but there’s also no satisfying face-to-face for Stanton (Tobias Menzies). However, no history books have ever recounted the events of Manhunt Season 1 Episode 6, “Useless,” with such energy and intensity. For both prey and pursuer, this is the turning point for everything.
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The irony that Stanton suffers his worst asthma attack yet just as Booth’s capture dances into view is devastating yet predictable, considering how he’s repeatedly ignored the advice of his physician and the pleas of his wife. Over and over again, he shows that he is willing to sacrifice everything to feed his obsession with bringing Booth to justice.
Meanwhile, Booth can’t see a future where he isn’t a hero in the eyes of all Confederates. Never mind that his leg isn’t getting better, the Confederate soldiers think he’s a coward and he’s dependent on the kindness of secessionist sympathizers. Forget the fact he’s hidden — cold and starving — in a pine thicket, has been turned around by fog, sheltered by freed folk and has only David Herold (Will Harrison) on his side. In Booth’s mind, he is crowned, anointed and deified.
Shared Delusions
As we barrel toward the final moments, pay close attention to the reactions of the people around our main players. Herold fights a constant internal battle between going along with Booth’s megalomania and the intruding forces of reality. As Booth’s rapidly deteriorating health begins to affect his personality, it’s clear a line must be drawn. The rest of Booth’s supporters are in the wind themselves and conspicuous in their absence.
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Stanton’s circle of supports is considerably larger. Yet, their concern with Stanton’s state of mind is just as genuine. Interestingly, Stanton is as preoccupied with Booth as Booth is. In addition, Stanton must tread the line between doing right and doing it the right way. Lincoln’s Mars, much like the Roman god, has his own rules of engagement.
With Stanton sidelined (for the moment), Booth cornered, and Boston “Mad Hatter” Corbett (William Mark McCullough) on the hunt, the powder keg is about to blow, and it’ll be chaos in all quarters. What will the fallout look like?
We know who is remembered when the smoke clears. But what is the real legacy of Lincoln’s assassination? Who truly benefits? And who pays the price?
Manhunt drops new episodes every Friday on Apple TV+.
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