Ranking the Top 10 Episodes of Manifest

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Manifest

The show's finest episodes captivate viewers with intense stakes and unexpected plot twists, emphasizing the daring pursuit of answers and unravelling the enigmatic elements of the storyline. Additionally, numerous standout episodes showcase the demise of key characters, whether genuine or fabricated, amplifying the profound emotional resonance.

Several great installments of

Manifest

Manifest delivered numerous suspenseful and thought-provoking episodes throughout its four-season run, effectively heightening the stakes surrounding the passengers of Flight 828 and intricately exploring the show's key enigmas. Initially airing on NBC before concluding on Netflix, its final season at last resolves the enduring mystery of Flight 828. Along the way, Manifest masterfully weaves in various storylines, showcasing the varying strengths they possess.

10. Manifest season 1, episode 9

Manifest's meandering journey of uncovering the truth behind Flight 828's disappearance and reappearance years later, often compared to the captivating series Lost, is a testament to its unique charm. Although the show's various subplots contribute to its memorable episodes, Manifest truly shines when it delves into its central mystery and explores the compelling themes that accompany it.

"Dead Reckoning"

Manifest season 1 marks a strong beginning for the show, with early episodes tackling the high stakes surrounding Flight 828 head-on. When Ben and Michaela Stone discover that a government agency has taken a group of passengers, they set out on a mission to find them. Along the way, Robert Vance and Jared become entangled in their investigation, leading to an explosive conclusion in episode 9, "Dead Reckoning."

In "Dead Reckoning," viewers are treated to a shocking and tragic fake death of Vance, while Jared comes close to meeting the same fate. Despite the group's success in rescuing the missing passengers, this episode serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved in their search for answers. It also underscores the significance of Cal in unraveling Manifest's enigmas and delivers a major revelation in its final moments.

9. Manifest season 1, episode 12

"Vanishing Point"

Throughout season 1 of Manifest, Cal plays a significant role in the central storyline. In episode 12, titled "Vanishing Point," he once again makes a crucial discovery. This time, instead of being kidnapped by someone targeting the passengers, Cal disappears from home and heads upstate on his own. As a result, Ben and Grace are led to Zeke, who becomes a vital character in the show's narrative.

The tense and mysterious installment of "Vanishing Point" adds to the intrigue of Cal's disappearance. The bizarre ending leaves us with thought-provoking questions, enhancing the captivating nature of Manifest. This chapter is significant in the overall progression of the show and introduces the Major, a formidable antagonist who further heightens the stakes for the passengers.

8. Manifest season 1, episode 16

"Estimated Time of Departure"

The finale of Manifest season 1, episode 16, titled "Estimated Time of Departure," delivers a strong impact as it presents a race against time for Michaela and Ben to prevent Griffin, now free, from exposing the callings to the public. However, what sets this episode apart is not just the high stakes involved.

Manifest season 1's finale also unveils shocking revelations, including Grace's pregnancy and the unexpected connection between the Major and Saanvi as her therapist. These revelations build up to a dramatic confrontation between Zeke and Jared, leaving viewers eager to continue watching in the next episode. It serves as a perfect conclusion to the season, keeping viewers on the edge of their seat until the final credits roll.

7. Manifest season 2, episode 13

"Icing Conditions"

The finales of Manifest offer some of its most memorable episodes, and the conclusion of season 2, titled "Icing Conditions," is no exception. This episode successfully brings together the various storylines of the season, especially the build-up to Zeke's death. Zeke heroically sacrifices himself to save Cal, but unexpectedly manages to save his own life as well. This intense climax hints at future developments in Manifest, making it a captivating installment worth revisiting.

Saanvi's surprise act of killing the Major in this episode leaves viewers questioning the future of both her and the other passengers. The build-up of the Major as the show's primary antagonist makes the shocking twist in season 2's conclusion that much more impactful, serving as a powerful reminder of what sets this series apart.

6. Manifest season 4, episode 17

"Threshold"

Manifest season 4, episode 17 may not possess the same level of intensity as the show's other remarkable episodes. However, it gracefully emphasizes the power of hope, emphasizing the central theme of the series. In "Threshold," the passengers, many of whom have been confined within a detention center and left to perish, finally achieve freedom. Remarkably, it is not a mere signal or sign that rescues them from their dire circumstances, but rather the unwavering determination of Lourdes, who dedicates herself to meticulously drilling a tunnel to the facility.

This poignant episode of "Threshold" sheds light on the transformative impact of altruism and the rewarding nature of maintaining optimism. As the conclusion of Manifest draws near, this profound message is a breath of fresh air, further reinforced in the series finale.

5. Manifest season 2, episode 7

"Emergency Exit"

While hopeful moments in Manifest add an emotional touch to the series, it's the intense episodes that linger in our minds. This is exactly why "Emergency Exit," episode 7 of Manifest season 2, is so impactful. In this chapter, the passengers of Flight 828 cross paths at a nightclub, unaware that it's a setup. Narrowly escaping poisoning, they find themselves trapped inside the club, which is now engulfed in flames. This gripping episode also features another heart-wrenching false death, paralleling the impact of Vance's.

In addition, other storylines in this installment offer glimpses into the mysteries of the callings, including Saanvi's scientific attempts to find a solution. As a whole, "Emergency Exit" strikes the perfect balance between thrilling action and captivating investigation, making it a thoroughly enjoyable episode from start to finish.

4. Manifest season 1, episode 1

"Pilot"

The Manifest pilot stands out as one of the finest episodes in the series, primarily because it sets the stage for all subsequent events and immediately hooks viewers. The premise of Manifest is undeniably one of its greatest strengths, and the pilot flawlessly executes it. Witnessing the passengers of Flight 828 – characters we are just beginning to familiarize ourselves with – disembark the plane only to discover that their loved ones have moved on or perished during their absence is truly heart-wrenching. The fact that this emotional impact is felt so early on speaks volumes about the exceptional character development in the show.

The main enigma of Manifest is what captivates viewers throughout four seasons, and the yearning for solutions begins with the pilot. The incorporation of callings brings an intriguing dimension to an already bewildering mystery, guaranteeing an exhilarating journey lies ahead.

3. Manifest season 4, episode 10

"Inversion Illusion"

Titled "Inversion Illusion," this pivotal episode of Manifest marks the midpoint of the final season, delivering a powerful impact befitting of a midseason finale. As the characters bracingly confront Cal's impending demise from cancer, an overwhelming sense of despair permeates the atmosphere, compounded by the escalating hostility towards the passengers. The tension finally reaches its breaking point in the climactic conclusion of "Inversion Illusion," where the survivors of Flight 828 find themselves rounded up and confined behind bars.

2. Manifest season 4, episode 20

In this chapter, Zeke has an epiphany that he can utilize his abilities to absorb Cal's cancer and ultimately rescue the young boy from danger. This significant turning point was foreshadowed earlier in Manifest, adding depth to Zeke's character. The poignant final moments between Zeke and Michaela evoke strong emotions, making this particular episode an absolute tearjerker.

"Final Boarding"

Manifest's series finale is undeniably one of the show's best episodes, despite its controversial ending. While it may not provide answers to all the questions raised throughout its four seasons, it delivers a fitting and fulfilling conclusion to the characters' journey. Reflecting on the events that unfold, it becomes clear that there was no other possible ending for Manifest. In "Final Boarding," all major storylines converge as the passengers of Flight 828 board the plane once again, this time to face their ultimate judgment.

During this judgment, characters like Angelina face the consequences of their actions, which is satisfying in its own right. However, it is the heartwarming moment when the surviving passengers return to 2013 and find their loved ones patiently waiting for them that truly makes their arduous journey worthwhile.

1. Manifest season 3, episode 13

"Mayday: Part 2"

The final episode of the Manifest series offers a hopeful and satisfying conclusion for the characters, but it's the season 3 finale that truly stands out as the best episode. Titled "Mayday: Part 2," this thrilling installment follows the dramatic events that unfold after Cal comes into contact with the tail fin of Flight 828 and vanishes. The Stones frantically rely on his drawings to unravel the mystery, heightening the suspense and promising long-awaited answers regarding the flight's disappearance. While these answers are not provided in "Mayday: Part 2," the finale effectively brings the show back to its original premise just in time for its final season.

Not only is Manifest season 3's finale one of the most intense and emotional episodes of the series, but it concludes with a shocking twist. Angelina kidnaps Eden and tragically kills Grace, creating a bombshell ending. In the final moments of "Mayday: Part 2," it is revealed that Cal has returned, except he has mysteriously aged five years. This development leaves viewers yearning for answers and eagerly anticipating more episodes.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z fan, I have mixed feelings about the show Manifest. On the one hand, I appreciate its intriguing premise and the way it explores the mysteries surrounding Flight 828. The show's twists and turns kept me engaged, and I was eager to find out what would happen next. On the other hand, I sometimes found the show's pacing to be slow, and some of the subplots felt unnecessary. Additionally, I was disappointed with the way the show handled some of its character arcs, particularly in the later seasons.

Overall, I think Manifest is a solid show with a lot to offer fans of mystery and suspense. However, I believe it could have been even better if it had been more focused and had avoided some of the pitfalls that it fell into in the later seasons.