REVIEW: ‘Marvel’s Jessica Jones: Playing with Fire,’ Episode 8

Marvel’s Jessica Jones: Playing with Fire Episode 8 is published by Serial Box, written by Lauren Beukes, Vita Ayala, Sam Beckbessinger, Zoe Quinn, Elsa Sjunneson, and narrated by Fryda Wolff. Following up on the thin line of clues she was able to piece together last episode, Jessica is finally able to start seeing a picture come into focus. Unfortunately, there are those who don’t want her figuring this puzzle out. And its always a struggle to punch someone who can fight you without touching you.

As with all great detective stories, it’s when the case feels the coldest that the breaks come. Jessica’s perseverance is rewarded here as her dogged work up to this point finally provides a big break. And while most of this accomplishment is fueled by reasoning and deductive problem solving, there is a fair amount of an intrinsic instinct that always comes along to save Jessica just when she needs it.

While these sort of random “hunches” often feel like a weak plot device to move the story along, the writing in Marvel’s Jessica Jones: Playing with Fire Episode 8 handles it with a light enough touch to keep it from feeling like the game is rigged for Jessica to win. This is largely due to the fact that her instinct only takes her so far here. Even once she realizes what is setting her off, the writing still forces her to process why that might be useful. This keeps the revelation from feeling like a cheap “Eureka!” moment. Allowing Jessica to benefit from the classic decective’s intuition, without it undermining just how sharp her mind is.

Jessica’s often over looked mental capacity is also highlighted in her quick thinking and combat prowess. Even as she begins to dig through her new found information she is visited by some unwelcome company. Her quick thinking helps her protect what she has gained, even as the intruders breech her office.

Once the fight starts Jessica is confronted with more than she is initially expecting. The Marvel Universe is full of super powered adversaries and not all of them like a good stand up fight like our protagonist. And while these unexpected advantages catch our favorite detective off guard, Jessica quickly compensates. Giving as good as her formidable attributes can muster, her assailants are quickly reminded not to underestimate her.

With Marvel’s Jessica Jones: Playing with Fire Episode 8 pushing us into the back half of our story it feels like things are going to be picking up from here. With this sudden attack on her personal space, I have little doubt Jessica will be looking to chase down those who would come into her house. This looming retaliation, coupled with the ever clearing picture surrounding Jamie’s death, has me eagerly waiting the next chapter to this excellent mix of detective story, character drama, and superhero action.

Marvel’s Jessica Jones: Playing with Fire Episode 8 Is available July 2nd only on Serial Box.