‘Power Book III: Raising Kanan’ Season 5 Episode 4 Review: Kanan Plays to Win

The fifth and final season of ‘Power Book III: Raising Kanan’ is building toward the inevitable clash between a mother and her son, and the fourth episode, titled “Pawns and Rooks,” fully embraces its chess metaphor. Although Kanan and Raq do not share any scenes in this episode, their opposing forces collide with such intensity that it creates a palpable tension, making their eventual confrontation one of the most anticipated moments in prestige crime television.

What sets this final season apart is Mekai Curtis’s standout performance. Kanan Stark has evolved into a colder, more calculated character, embodying the man audiences first met in the ‘Power’ universe. Curtis skillfully navigates this transformation, delivering a portrayal that aligns perfectly with the writing’s demands. Every move Kanan makes, from manipulating Jarita to dealing with the Taz situation, reflects a character who has embraced his true self without seeking approval.

One of the episode’s most impactful moments features Kanan coercing one of Flossy’s escorts to exchange her drug delivery for a deadly batch, leading to the death of a federal judge. This act of collateral damage significantly jeopardizes Raq’s fragile partnership with Flossy. The episode effectively illustrates how one fatal incident can highlight the risks of being close to Raq, showcasing Kanan’s willingness to go to extreme lengths.

Taz’s exit feels inevitable, given his demeanor from the start of the season. His belief that his relationship with Breeze would protect him is quickly dismantled. The aftermath is haunting, particularly as Breeze guides Kanan through the grim task of disposing of a body, reinforcing Breeze’s role as a mentor who sees potential in Kanan.

The revelation involving Breeze and DefCon at the episode’s conclusion serves as a significant twist. While the audience knows Kanan’s biological father is Detective Howard, Breeze’s words create a complex dynamic that raises questions about loyalty and truth. This duality adds depth to their relationship, leaving viewers uncertain about the foundation on which it stands.

The quieter moments in the episode also resonate well. Marvin’s ongoing storyline develops authentically, and his conversation with Raq about being the last ones standing is one of the season’s most emotionally resonant scenes.

Patina Miller effectively conveys Raq’s sense of being besieged, utilizing her limited screen time to great effect.

However, Jukebox’s storyline remains the weakest link. While not poorly written, Garcia’s character lacks the depth needed to be perceived as a genuine threat, making her arc feel rushed compared to the season’s other character developments.

Overall, “Pawns and Rooks” stands out as one of the strongest episodes of this final season, advancing multiple storylines while delivering a mythology reveal that will reshape the narrative in the remaining episodes.

7 out of 10.

We want to hear your thoughts! Do you think Breeze is being truthful with Kanan or is he manipulating him?