The Hasty Conclusion of 'Our Flag Means Death' Season 2 Diluted Its Pivotal Reunion

Article Summary

In the Season 2 finale of Our Flag Means Death, Stede and Ed's failure to effectively communicate and address their problems is left unresolved, leading them to embark on a new life together with their unresolved issues still lingering. This lack of maturity and effective communication has been a recurrent theme throughout Season 2, ultimately contributing to the destructive nature of their romantic relationship.

As Stede basks in his newfound fame and becomes self-centered, disregarding Ed's feelings, Ed begins to realize that their life goals conflict, leading to another argument and the possibility of them separating.

Max's highly anticipated original series, Our Flag Means Death, recently concluded its second season with a disappointing finale. Throughout the sophomore season, the plot took unexpected turns, and creator David Jenkins and writer John Mahone, who collaborated on the last episode, aimed to explore the Revenge crew's emotional depth beyond their swashbuckling adventures. The pirates mourn the loss of a beloved comrade, rejoice in a joyous wedding, and part ways to embark on their next uncharted voyage. Despite the heart-wrenching moments, there was one crucial storyline left unresolved by the show's finale.

Season 2 revolves around the aftermath of Stede and Blackbeard's abrupt breakup from Season 1. Interestingly, both characters deal with their emotions in contrasting ways. The couple reunites midway through the show but continue to have difficulty communicating their hidden issues, resulting in yet another separation. Just when it appeared that a happy ending was within reach, the anticipated finale hurries the pair back together with a clichéd beach scene where Blackbeard alone apologizes for his misdeeds. Unfortunately, the season concludes without addressing the deeper problems in their relationship. As a result, Stede and Ed decide to leave the crew and embark on a new journey as innkeepers, unaware of the toxicity of their bond. Could they have been better off as friends?

Our Flag Means Death

Release Date March 3, 2022Cast Rhys Darby, Taika Waititi, Rory Kinnear, Con O'NeillMain Genre AdventureGenres Comedy, Action, Adventure, BiographyRating TV-MASeasons 2

Stede and Ed Aren't Meant for Each Other In 'Our Flag Means Death'

Image via Max

Ever since Season 1, the television series Our Flag Means Death has been captivating viewers with the unexpected love story between Stede Bonnet (portrayed by Rhys Darby), also known as the "Gentleman Pirate," and the comedic misadventures of the Revenge pirates. Stede, a novice in piracy, had to start from scratch and learn the ways of the high seas. It was clear that he was far from skilled and often approached violent situations with trepidation. However, his chivalrous nature allowed him to assemble a devoted yet eccentric crew (who were a bit eccentric themselves). As Stede found himself embarking on more and more thrilling escapades, he grew into a remarkable captain. Things took a turn when Blackbeard (played by Taika Waititi) joined Stede's comrades, as both pirates experienced not only external transformations but also profound changes within themselves.

Blackbeard, also known as Ed Teach, is infamous for being a heartless and merciless pirate. His Jolly Roger, the flag that represents his ship, instills fear in his enemies and prevents them from raiding his vessel. When Ed takes control of the Revenge and meets Stede, he is emotionally vulnerable and burdened by his past misdeeds. His self-esteem is low, and he secretly longs for change. Stede's kind and optimistic personality brings newfound joy into Ed's life, and they form a friendship. Stede learns the ways of piracy from Blackbeard, while Blackbeard learns to appreciate the simple pleasures like fine clothing and beautiful sunsets. However, as their relationship deepens, they find that their romantic connection is more destructive than expected.

In the first season's finale, Stede and Blackbeard decide to escape together when they are captured by the British. Unexpectedly, Stede abandons their plans and leaves Ed to return to his wealthy family. This betrayal leaves Ed feeling deeply hurt and confused. It is only when Stede realizes that Ed has always been there for him that he leaves his wife Mary and children to embrace the pirate life again. The second season explores the aftermath of their breakup, particularly its impact on Blackbeard. Plunged into a severe depression, Ed spirals into a violent mid-life crisis on the Revenge, abusing his crew. His rage alienates the pirates, and they attempt to kill him, resulting in Ed falling into a coma.

In Episode 3, titled "The Innkeeper," Ed faces a mental battle for survival while trapped in the "gravy bucket," a state between life and death. Stede discovers Ed's comatose body on the Revenge and desperately implores him to wake up, promising unwavering support and safety. Notably, Stede never apologizes for his actions. Remarkably, Blackbeard awakens from his vegetative state, but his attitude towards his former lover remains distant, which is justified. Even in the subsequent episode, "Fun and Games," when pirates Anne Bonny and Mary Read invite the feuding couple for dinner, Stede attempts to win back Ed without acknowledging or explaining why he left Blackbeard for his ex-wife. This lack of understanding the importance of open communication in dealing with relationship issues highlights their immaturity, despite their shared childhood traumas being significant factors.

Stede had a childhood devoid of a caring paternal figure, who constantly belittled him as a "weak-hearted, soft-handed, lily-livered little rich boy." Similarly, Blackbeard endured abuse from his father, whom he ultimately killed, claiming that "the Kraken" was responsible due to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Stede and Ed are both lost souls with similar pasts, but sharing those experiences does not necessarily strengthen their bond. Season 2 revealed that their absence of communication, unwillingness to acknowledge their ongoing healing process, and their evolution as individuals, as well as learning how to truly love another person, only drives them further apart.

The "Gentleman Pirate" Is the Bad Guy in 'Our Flag Means Death' Season 2

Image via HBO Max

The "Gentleman Pirate" has always been the standout character in Our Flag Means Death. From the very beginning of the series, he has captured the hearts of fans. However, in Season 2, the showrunners made a significant change to Stede Bonnet's character. In Episode 6, after killing the notorious Ned Low, Stede becomes consumed by his newfound fame. He becomes selfish and disregards Blackbeard, who is growing weary of the pirate lifestyle. Despite Ed expressing a desire to take things slowly in their relationship, Stede pushes for more physical intimacy, causing Ed to lose interest and give up piracy to pursue a career as a fisherman. Their opposing life goals lead to continuous arguments and a breakdown in communication. Stede labels Ed as a "coward" for wanting to quit piracy, mistakenly assuming that Ed wants nothing to do with their relationship. This results in Ed storming off to pursue his new dream.

Rather than delving into the unresolved emotions between Ed and Stede, the season finale takes an anticlimactic turn. The focus shifts towards seeking revenge on the British army, who have taken over Spanish Jackie's and murdered the crew of "Pirate Queen" Zheng Yi Sao, portrayed by Ruibo Qian. In the final episode, titled "Merman," the audience is shown how well-suited Blackbeard is to a life as a fisherman. We witness him finding solace in the tranquility of the lake, appreciating the stillness of the moment, which brings a smile to his face. He reflects on his changed perspective, stating, "I used to see the sea as a battlefield. Now, I can see the abundance it offers and the natural beauty surrounding it." However, his attempts to fit in with the fishing community are met with rejection, as his sensitive peers forcefully send him back to his true calling as a pirate.

Ed only feels the desire to fully commit to love when he reads a heartfelt letter from Stede. The couple embrace passionately, yet their rushed reunion feels more like a fan service rather than an authentic connection. Stede shows no regret for their past behavior towards Ed during the finale. While Blackbeard apologizes and tries to make amends, Stede fails to acknowledge or take responsibility for their actions and the challenges they put Ed through. The season concludes with the couple embarking on a new life as innkeepers, without discussing or addressing the mistakes they've made in their relationship. They choose to ignore the "red flags" and attempt to rebuild their relationship on an unstable foundation.

Although Stede loves Ed sincerely, their actions don't align with their words. Blackbeard also has shortcomings, but throughout the seasons, it seems that he puts more effort into changing for the betterment of the relationship. Stede is still figuring out their own identity, just like Ed. Perhaps, only a potential third season could reveal the future of this quirky pair, but maybe they would truly be better off as friends.

Both seasons of Our Flag Means Death are available to stream on Max in the U.S.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z fan, I have mixed feelings about the hasty conclusion of 'Our Flag Means Death' Season 2. On the one hand, I appreciate the show's willingness to explore the complex and often messy nature of relationships. Stede and Ed's relationship is complicated, and it's clear that they both have a lot of work to do if they want to make it work. On the other hand, I'm disappointed that the show didn't take more time to resolve their issues. The finale felt rushed, and I would have liked to see more of Stede and Ed working through their problems.

I think the show's decision to leave Stede and Ed's relationship unresolved is a reflection of the reality that relationships are often messy and complicated. There is no easy answer, and it takes time and effort to work through problems. I appreciate that the show didn't try to sugarcoat Stede and Ed's relationship, and I think it's important to show that even the most loving relationships can be difficult.