Fallen Angel continues to rocket forward filling in the world of Altered Carbon as it both answers and expands the questions surrounding the enigmatic Envoy, Takeshi Kovacs.
The people in the future struggle with the implications of being "spun up", i.e. brought back to life in another sleeve. The implications, possible abuses, and dangers are explored further in continually thought-provoking ways. Sleeves are not only used to extend life, but also for travel. Consciousness is transferred across interstellar distances from sleeve to sleeve in the Altered Carbon version of business travel. And its possible to be caught in a trauma loop in which a damaged stack relives a traumatic moment over and over. What of the soul? Religious people struggle with the idea of being lost in the process of being spun up.
Everything in this world is inventive and creative. The artistry of this episode is as strong as the first. Dream sequences, flashbacks, visions, and a VR scene all remain visually fantastic. Altered Carbon is more Bladerunner than Bladerunner 2049. Particularly enjoyable is the AI hotel keeper, Poe, who is old tech but full of humanity and inspiration. We learn some more about Kovacs' backstory. And, I'm still not clear why Ortega is obsessed with him, even at the risk of her job. The history of the Protectorate seems to view Envoys as terrorists, though Kovacs' flashbacks suggest they were something more. This suspicion alone doesn't seem personal enough to explain her behavior. Perhaps it will become clear. And, what's the connection with Mary Lou Henchy? Mysteries abound.
Nine stars for continued greatness!
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