Our Flag Means Death (TV Series) The Curse of the Seafaring Life (2023) User Reviews

What a gift to the people that love this show.

[brooke-27975 · 10/10 · 13 October 2023]

If I could rate this show any higher, I would do it in a heartbeat. It's that incredible.

In fact, if I had the chance, I would send a present to every single person involved in the making of this show. From the Foley Artist who creates those immersive sound effects, to the talented Set decorators who bring the world to life, and the Costume and Hair teams who ensure that every detail is perfect. But let's not forget about the entire cast who brings these characters to life with such brilliance, and of course, David Jenkins, the mastermind behind it all. Every single person involved deserves recognition and appreciation.

What makes this show truly special is the palpable labor of love that goes into every episode. You can feel it, in the way the story unfolds, in the attention to detail, and in the passion that shines through. But I have to say, this particular episode takes it to a whole new level. It's like a masterpiece within a masterpiece.

They have created something truly remarkable, and we are lucky to be able to experience it.

As you watch this show, remember to appreciate the dedication, the creativity, and the love that goes into every frame. And if you ever get the chance, don't hesitate to show your support and gratitude. Whether it's through a heartfelt message, a fan art, or even a small token of appreciation, let them know how much their work means to you.

This show has touched our hearts, and it's a testament to the power of storytelling and the magic of television. So let's continue to be passionate, continue to support the incredible people behind it, and continue to be amazed by the gift that is this show.

I enjoyed this with all my heart

[rayintheshadows · 10/10 · 12 October 2023]

I AM STILL SCREAMING!!!!! I think I watched every scene between Ed and Stede twice.

But I'm getting ahead of myself.

My fav moments except from the big one: 1. BLACKBEARDS COLLAR AND WHY DOES HE STILL LOOK SO HOT IN A POTATO SACK IT'S UNFAIR 2. Stede in his sassy outfit absolutely slaying.

3. Izzy getting into his element again, I loved that for him and Con is such an amazing actor.

4. Stede actually being competent at the second raid 5. The lovely talk it through moment between Fang and Ed.

6. Lucius working through his trauma and then PROPOSING TO PETE I AM SO EXCITED

And finally, of course, ohhhhhhhmyLORD CONGRATS CREW ON THE SECOND CANON KISS IN THIS SERIES!!!! WE MADE IT!!!! AND WHAT A KISS IT WAS I saw the moon in the background and I was already screeching because in that moment I KNEW they were gonna kiss. And then cutely holding hands afterwards and taking it slow, I just know that Stede is gonna woo Edward so hard and I am nothing but excited to see it.

More than I could have anticipated or wished for.

[genanetherwood · 10/10 · 12 October 2023]

Going into this episode, I had a sense that Stede would be getting help from Izzy on how to be a pirate, but I wasn't quite expecting what I ended up actually receiving from this episode. Con O'Neill continues to doing a really outstanding performance. His acting has been so incredible. He took his character to new depths that I wasn't expecting this season and it's been beautiful. Rhys and Taika somehow keep getting better and better. I'm not sure I can write my feelings out accurately on just what beautiful angles on regaining people's trust and of everything else: from mental health, ADHD, saying sorry for hurt you have caused others, and other various traumas. I won't even discuss the end of the episode. It was perfect. I cannot write about it and do it justice.

Wow! Favorite episode so far

[water_violin · 10/10 · 16 October 2023]

Wow this was an absolutely stunning episode. This may be my favorite episode of tv I've ever watched. The pacing was perfect, the humor was spot-on, and the character development and narrative arc was exceptionally satisfying. It's amazing how much content they fit into only 30 minutes without it feeling rushed.

I'm so glad we got to see Ed and Stede comfortable separately and then together and that they were actually communicating their own needs in addition to being responsive to the needs of one another and the rest of the crew, at various points.

Having Izzy grow into a more nuanced character and work with Stede in earnest for the first time was a delight and Con O'Neill did a superb job striking the balance in being Stede's mentor without abandoning Izzy's antagonistic history with him.

Similarly, it was delightful to see Ed having a more emotionally vulnerable conversation with Fang, one of the crewmates that he'd hurt by his actions earlier this season. It was both tender and humorous and it was fun to see Fang as the bearer of wisdom.

The moonlit parallel to S1E5 was my absolute favorite moment and I can't express how much I loved the similarities as well as the contrasts from Season 1. It felt the same, but also fresh and different: it felt real.

I'm so excited to see where the creators take this show next!

Such a beautiful episode!

[c-15384 · 10/10 · 18 October 2023]

This episode is highly entertaining. Its comedic elements are remarkably well-written and acted. I also really loved seeing Edward's growth during this episode through his discussions with Fang. I liked seeing the different ways the crew deal with their trauma and how they support each other in this episode. It was great to see and hear about how they all come together and work as a team by the end. The final two scenes of this episode are absolutely beautiful and heartfelt. The way the writers and actors draw parallels to the first season is fantastic. The performances in these scenes are wonderful. This episode is heart-healing and an amazing viewing experience.

Yet another banger

[ablackstar · 10/10 · 10 November 2023]

Okay, this episode is just adorable. We come out of the emotional depths of the first three episodes and into life on The Revenge as it was before, almost. Ed and Fang's little chat together was both hilarious and touching, and there's a beautiful callback to the first season between Ed and Stede.

I loved Izzy's progression as well, and he has a scene with Lucius that left me speechless. This might be my favorite episode of the season. Once again Con O'Neill is at the absolute top of his game, and Rhys Darby's never been funnier than he is in this episode. His gift for physical comedy is absolute perfection. I wish we had about three episodes in this "mood" of The Revenge to provide a respite from the heavy drama and let the characters have some time to settle and interact.

Maybe my favorite episode of season two

[CEC523 · 10/10 · 26 November 2023]

There are so many incredible moments in OFMD s2 but when I look back on the season as a whole, I keep thinking, "The Curse of the Seafaring Life might be my favorite episode." There's SO much good stuff here: Ed in the rice sack and cat collar, making his ridiculous corporate non-apology apology speech but then actually listening to and apologizing to Fang later in the episode; Lucius and Ed interacting for the first time since s1e10 (Nathan and Taika are always amazing together); Stede flouncing around in the suit; and, of course, the second "You wear fine things well scene," a scene that prompted me to text a friend, "The writers LOVE us." In the middle of the episode, we get to see Izzy training Stede and Stede and the crew finding and then off-loading the cursed suit, a rare moment in the second season that felt like fun for fun's sake rather than something that was there to advance the plot. I love seeing these characters breathe and interact so that was lovely.

absolute banger

[madra_rua_ · 10/10 · 11 November 2023]

At long last, Stede and Blackbeard are finally friends again - back on the same ship, no longer at odds, and inching back toward the burgeoning romance they had in season one. It's a delight - and, honestly, a relief - to see Rhys Darby and Taika Waititi's chemistry back in play, and they work back up to a big relationship moment that doubles as a terribly sweet callback to one of their most memorable scenes together from season one.

They spend a big chunk of the episode apart, though. Blackbeard spends most of his time atoning for his actions toward the crew in the first few episodes in a plotline that doubles as a meditation on restorative justice. Stede teams up with Izzy to learn a few things about piracy (in some scenes I was surprised to find a bit boring; I was really excited for the dynamic they'd set up in earlier episodes, but Izzy seems to have chilled out so rapidly now that his redemption arc is complete that he's become a little dull here). He manages to show both that he's come along way as a pirate captain but also that he's the same silly guy we remember from season one, and it's great to see how he's grown while staying true to himself.

A beautiful episode

[bellaschnellara · 10/10 · 17 December 2023]

This is probably my favourite episode of S2 (although it's so hard to choose...)

Love all the character dynamics that get explored here. Ed and Fang get to work out some of their past dynamics, Lucius gets a little bit of closure with Ed, and Stede's newfound mentorship with Izzy is really interesting to watch. Not to mention Ed and Stede sharing another moonlight moment, oh my heart...

The most important relationship in this ep though is Stede and The Suit. I cried when he had to give it up, they were meant for each other. Rhys Darby and his hips play the hell out of this!

The crew moments with the peanuts and the Curse and super funny, and overall it was just an immensely enjoyable, well-rounded ep with lots of lovely character moments.

This Episode is Everything

[mylifeiskindaok · 10/10 · 9 January 2024]

This episode is everything to me. From the cat bell to the potato sack outfit, to seeing Izzy grow as a character, to the "you wear fine things well" reference, nothing could top this episode. It's a mixture of sweetness and it melts our hearts just like the crew's. Ed shows such great personal growth and learns a lot about himself which shows really how hard he's trying to be better not only for himself, but for Stede as well. He recalls their conversation from the previous episode and asks to take things slow as to not be so whim-prone and I think it's such a fantastic step to take in their relationship, setting boundaries and talking it through (as a crew of two).

Forgiveness with a funny aftertaste

[jclarraga · 10/10 · 13 January 2024]

The overlying theme of this show is transformation; moving ahead of what defines you, or at least what you think defines you, and finding growth through companionship. It's touching, and this episode displays it beautifully with heartfelt, hilarious acting. A good show keeps its themes balanced to set an even tone that maintains the attention of the audience. I never find my mind wandering when I watch this show. It measures the portions of sincerity and hilarity perfectly. And best of all, we finally see our crew finding balance in their relationships. Letting in by letting go. It's a pleasure to experience.

Perhaps the most piratey of the season!

[CrazyMRFan · 10/10 · 12 January 2024]

It's certainly not a downside that the second season of Our Flag Means Death initially focuses on the characters and interpersonal relationships of the crew of the Revenge (in fact, I consider that an asset as character is always king in a story, in my opinion), but I like that this episode got back to a bit more of the pirate fun we enjoy seeing the crew have as well! Superstitions and curses are a part of so many cultures that you don't have to be a pirate to relate to this, but it's great to see how all those old sea dog beliefs manifest in the crew, and how Stede handles it all, still being relatively new to that seafaring life.

Despite being glad at that change of pace story-wise, I'm also glad this episode had Ed on an apology tour as he tries to make amends with everyone he hurt on the crew, to varying degrees of success. Ed and Fang getting some scenes alone together was a particular delight!

Without spoiling, the final two scenes of this episode make your heart grow several sizes, once again ending with a wonderful soundtrack that solidifies this show's never-ending endearment.

It's a SAFE SPACE SHIP

[shaugen-35205 · 10/10 · 15 January 2024]

Ed is back on the ship and he gives a heartfelt speech to the crew where he thanks them for accepting him back on the ship for a probation period. He is wearing a cat collar with a bell so he can't sneak up on anyone. The entire crew with the exception of Lucius seems very accepting of Ed's remorse and they get back to their pirate duties. Even Izzy if fine with Ed being back on the ship which annoys Lucius who can't seem to rile anyone else up to continue hating Ed. Stede and Ed talk about what Ed has to do to repair his reputation and how Stede can carry himself as the strong captain. Ed suggests to Lucius that he can push him off the boat, but that does little to help Lucius forget what Blackbeard did to him. The episode follows two different stories: Fang and Ed go on a fishing day while Stede gets lessons from Izzy to be a better pirate. When they practice Stede's new skills, Stede finds a beautiful red suit on a ship they are plundering, but since everyone on board was dead, the crew is convinced the suit is cursed. The episode is hilarious as the crew tries to get Stede to get rid of the suit and he refuses to let it go. Eventually, Stede has to follow Izzy's suggestion that he must get rid of the suit because once [a curse} takes hold . . . It takes hold. Meanwhile on the fishing trip, Ed learns from Fang that Blackbeard did a lot of horrible things to his crew. Ed is really sorry and is surprised that Fang is over the things he did. Fang bets Ed that he can't be quiet long enough to catch a fish and Ed takes on the challenge. Later under the moonlight, Ed and Stede reunite to talk about their days and viewers are treated to a beautiful and memorable scene where their relationship is officially sealed with a romantic kiss. The show continues to be the perfect gift. The writing is superb. The cinematography is stunning. The set design is remarkable and the soundtrack music is perfect for every single scene. The acting is so good that every scene is sheer perfection. Taika Waititi and Rhys Darby are so talented and have the viewer biting at the bit for them to get together and become an official couple. This show is one of a kind and I don't ever want it to end.

Heartfelt with an overall theme of growth - fantastic episode

[angelamguzman · 10/10 · 14 January 2024]

This was such a great episode, so refreshing to see these silly grown men deal with their trauma and heal. The parallels to season 1 that are drawn by the writers are spot on. Especially of course, "you wear fine things well." Swoon! Ed and Stede are finally making their way back to each other, and it's so fun to watch. That collar Ed has to wear around his neck is hilarious. Another great parallel is "talk it through as a crew" being translated to season 2. To see and hear the crew come together to work as a team by communicating their issues was so great. Loved Fang and Ed's interactions as well.

#saveOFMD #renewasacrew.

AHHHHHHHHHHHH /pos

[razzapple_ · 10/10 · 15 January 2024]

GOD THIS EPISODE. Everything about it was pure gold. This episode really brought back some of those classic ofmd camp vibes with the single-episode plot and the focus on the crew all together, it's amazing.

I absolutely adore Izzy's character development this season, and I think this episode in particular showcases it really well. With the stupid fun jokes he's making, and the way he's bonding with the crew, specifically Stede, it's so sweet to see his journey from the beginning of the show to now, and in later episodes.

And of course, the final scene. I'm not kidding when I say I full on screamed the first time I watched it. Without spoiling, the parallels are insane, from small lines to the music and everything, that scene owns my entire heart.

Episode 205

[bobcobb301 · 5 November 2023]

It is such a shame that show is an (HBO) MAX exclusively and not that many people get to see it because I think it has some great comedy, even if I do often criticize it for being repetitive.

Rhys Darby was doing some brilliant comedy work here trying to become a more authoritative captain and that is what we need more of. It seems like last year we had the same balance with Stede and Blackbeard with one being strong and the other weak and we're heading in that way again, but as long as it leads to laughs I don't really get that upset by it. Comedy just needs to make me laugh a little and I'm good.

Genuinely a Favorite!

[indulgentwords · 10/10 · 27 February 2024]

I love the parallel of our two leads on their journeys of transformation with the community around them. Both of them are trying to 'fix' themselves, to make themselves worthy of love, but in very different (and almost opposite and yet equally valid) ways. It's probably the most light-hearted episode of the season, which is a breath of relief after some of the grittier early episodes, and constantly funny. But it's also sweet. (And those final scenes... look, I'm not going to spoil it, but this is a scene I point to when I talk about set up and payoff. It's an excellent payoff.) Good to see our beloved characters getting a W just this once!

Charming respite from the darker start of the season

[suzanne-karrschmidt · 10/10 · 24 February 2024]

This episode sees Ed in a burlap sack apologizing to the crew and working with Stede to own his captain role. And his "mean voice." They head off on different quests, one not so successful in allowing Lucius to push him off the boat for closure, though he does catch a fish with Fang. Stede enjoys a training montage with Izzy and goes on a couple of raids acquiring and disposing of a gorgeous red suit that the crew thinks is cursed. Stede does a punch and fires a gun with some adequacy. Then our boys replay the You Wear Fine Things Well scene with an actual kiss, and a triumphant fish display, capped off by taking it slow and a round of thumb war.