The fifth episode of Slow Horses Season 6, titled “Sayonara,” ventures into territory rarely explored by the series, offering an uncharacteristically grand, almost Bond-esque installment. This episode is packed with major character deaths, surprising twists, significant plot revelations, and poignant character interactions, all contributing to a compelling narrative that sets the stage for the season’s conclusion.
The episode picks up immediately after the previous one, with River Cartwright (Jack Lowden) in pursuit of the agents who kidnapped Sid Baker (Olivia Cooke). The spotlight shines brightly on Sid and River’s developing relationship. Sid manages to escape her captors by using a novelty plate to slash her assailant while driving, a desperate act that leads to a dangerous car crash. River arrives to save Sid from drowning, and together they neutralize one of the kidnappers, Jim. Amidst the chaos, Sid and River share tender moments, discussing River's grandfather's death and flirting before Sid faces potential danger on a flight to Bulgaria. In a pivotal moment, River intervenes to prevent Sid from being captured or sacrificed, ultimately surrendering himself to authorities to protect her.
Meanwhile, Diana Taverner (Kristin Scott Thomas) faces intense scrutiny. She is confronted by Jackson Lamb (Gary Oldman), who has deduced that Diana fabricated records to conceal her involvement in a covert operation in Kazan that resulted in an assassination, using Sid's identity as a cover. Taverner is also questioned by MI5’s oversight committee regarding the same operation. Despite the pressure, she maintains a defiant stance, emphasizing her control over the situation and criticizing the service's inefficiencies.
Back at Taverner’s country home, the other Slow Horses are engaged in more relaxed activities, including preparing Molotov cocktails. Catherine Standish (Saskia Reeves) finds a moment of connection with Reece Nesmith (Lenny Rush) as they both grapple with grief over the loss of complicated male figures in their lives.
The episode also sheds light on Damien Cantor’s (Harry Lloyd) activities. While his exact motives remain somewhat unclear, it is revealed he is negotiating a major media distribution deal with Russian contacts, raising questions about his involvement with Russian propaganda. Lamb, utilizing information gathered by Roddy Ho (Christopher Chung), suspects Cantor hired the mercenary Frank Harkness to assassinate Andy Nesmith and has uncovered Cantor’s suspicious meetings at a children’s ballet. Lamb’s attempts to follow Cantor’s Russian contact prove unsuccessful, hinting at a deeper level of sophistication in their operations.
“Sayonara” is characterized by its ambitious scope, featuring significant character moments and escalating plotlines. The episode's blend of high-octane action, political intrigue, and emotional depth makes it a standout entry, pushing the season toward its climax with considerable momentum.