The 100 Review: “Day Trip” (Season 1, Episode 8)

Finn may be right to be concerned about the direction that Clarke and Bellamy are taking the 100. Bellamy has proven himself to be calculating and manipulative, and Clarke equally rash and emotional. However, somehow they have managed to form an alliance that is mutually beneficial, and honestly, a lot more appealing to watch.

As the two unlikely allies start to define their relationship, there’s going to be a lot more opportunities for the writers to throw in any number of interesting plot twists and turns. Maybe none as jaw dropping as an old flame randomly showing up from outer space, literally dropping out of the sky, but abrupt and often enough to keep viewers happy.

Bellamy and Clarke make a solid coupling. These are characters that are both struggling to come to terms with how their lives have been turning out, in a very complicated manner. They are filled with emotions that they are equipped to handle solo, and based on the way they interact now, it doesn’t seem like a farfetched notion to suggest that they are better off with each other – if only for the simple fact that they are both tremendously more likeable when they’re working together. There is also a natural chemistry between the two that works in their favor, regardless of Clarke’s tryst with Finn, which was essentially over before it really began.

It’s clear there’s a plot to overthrow the current governing body in the Ark, and eventually it will probably catch up with the 100, but until that point, the ties are pretty limited. Viewers already know that Bellamy was only a pawn in a much larger conspiracy. They also know, or think they know, that in this case Kane isn’t involved, which might have been the biggest surprise tonight’s episode offered. The giant missing piece of the puzzle is the reasoning behind it. If the Ark is on its last leg and soon everyone that possibly can fit on the drop ships will be relocated to Earth where freedoms are a bit more guaranteed, then why start an anarchy right before the last act? If people don’t like the way things are run, wouldn’t it just be easier to wait till they got to Earth and simply walk away?

The only positive to come out of whatever is truly going on up there is that Bellamy is uniquely qualified to be of assistance. Anyone that was worried that he would have to face the consequences of his actions can rest easy. Bellamy may have found another unlikely ally, and despite almost being the cause of his demise, may turn out to be the one that saves his life in the end.

Were you surprised that Chancellor Jaha was so quick to let Bellamy off the hook? Where do you stand on the current couple situation? Let us know what you thought, and all your other theories on The 100, in the comment section below!