Sunday, August 24, 2025

Countdown: Episodes 9 & 10 Review: Tension, Twists, and a Fresh Start



In this review, Countdown races to the finish line with episodes nine and ten, delivering explosive action, emotional farewells, and a bold reset that sets the stage for what’s next.





Episode 9: “10-33”

Picking up moments after last week’s cliffhanger, Blythe drags himself to safety after being stabbed by Volchek, and in true Blythe fashion, checks himself out of the hospital in under 12 hours to rejoin the case. It’s reckless but very on brand.

Meanwhile, the team discovers Volchek’s latest plan: using an entertainment company’s trucks to smuggle two semis filled with explosives to a shopping center, where Finau’s kids just happen to be on a school trip. Cue the high-speed, adrenaline-fueled drive only Countdown can deliver. Shepherd and Bell scramble to disarm the bombs while chaos erupts as Finau tries to clear the area, gun in hand, creating panic in the crowd. Tension peaks when Meachum spots Volchek just as the bombs are about to be triggered.

On the character side, Meachum’s worsening headaches are finally addressed when Oliveras turns to an old friend, a neurologist, who offers both medical help and maybe even a date. It’s a clever way to balance the life-or-death stakes with quieter, more personal beats.

This episode truly kept me captivated from beginning to end. The hospital escape blended excitement and humor seamlessly, while the shopping center scene had me on the edge of my seat. The Oliveras–Meachum subplot brought a heartfelt touch that made all the chaos feel even more real. I’d give it an 8 out of 10!




Episode 10: “The Muzzell Pile”

The finale wastes no time picking up from the bomb standoff. Shepherd and Bell manage to stop the explosives, while Volchek flees to the rooftop—only to meet his end at the hands of Meachum, who, despite his worsening condition, takes the shot.

With Volchek gone, Task Force Hurricane is disbanded. Members scatter to new roles, with Finau even earning a promotion, while Meachum receives hopeful news: he’s a candidate for experimental treatment. The goodbyes feel bittersweet, especially during the heartfelt family-style send-off before Meachum heads into treatment.

But Countdown doesn’t let things rest. A ten-month time jump resets the board: the governor of California, soon to be a presidential contender, is targeted for assassination. Blythe reassembles the team (minus Oliveras, who’s busy with the DEA), and yes, Meachum is alive and back in action. A hidden underground sniper’s lair sets the stage for a brand-new mission.

This episode featured intense opening action, emotional character moments, and a bold ending reset. The rooftop chase and the “beer talk” between Meachum and Oliveras stood out. My only nitpick? I wish the task force had stayed intact all season instead of breaking apart and rejoining. Countdown skillfully mixes action with grounded character drama, and these episodes proved that. With Blythe’s resilience, Meachum’s vulnerability, and Oliveras’ quiet strength, the show delivers spectacle and heart. Overall,  I give this episode an 8.5/10.

What did you think of the finale? Did the reset work for you, or do you wish Task Force Hurricane had stayed together?

Catch Countdown Wednesdays on Prime Video.

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