Yellowjackets` Creators’ Dark Inspiration Behind Hallucination Scene

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Warning: Spoilers for the third episode of Yellowjackets Season 3 titled “Them’s The Brakes” have been released. You can watch it now by subscribing to Paramount+, which also requires a Showtime subscription.

In a fascinating twist, the Yellowjackets series continues to captivate audiences with its exploration of magical realism, and the third episode of Season 3 was no exception, airing on the 2025 TV schedule. The hallucination scenes involving three characters – Akilah, Van, and Shauna – in Episode 3 have sparked intrigue among viewers. In these hallucinations, Ella Purnell’s character Jackie made a surprising appearance. I must admit, I’ve been pondering the significance of this scene and why these particular characters were selected for the hallucinations.

When interviewed, director Jonathan Lisco explained why he chose specific characters for an exciting scene and credited the late David Lynch as a significant influence.

Why Was Akilah In The Hallucination Scene?

As a film enthusiast, I’m eager to delve into the captivating character of Akilah, portrayed by the talented Nia Sondaya since Season 2. Unlike some other characters who thrive on drama and intensity, Akilah stands out as one of the kindest souls in the series. When Lisco addressed the hallucination scene, he couldn’t help but praise her presence, stating that she brings a refreshing, less turbulent energy to the storyline.

Akilah seems to have an intimate connection with nature, much like a child born from it. She cherishes animals, adores the soil, and finds joy in gardening. Consequently, when her story unfolds, there’s a distressing transformation. It’s as if she develops an excessive desire for blackberries, reminiscent of a Bacchanalian frenzy. However, these blackberries eventually ensnare her, wrapping around her legs and dragging her into the ominous depths of the Earth – a darkness that echoes the eerie atmosphere prevalent in the series.

Well, it’s only Akilah who could come up with a scenario like a llama speaking to her. Given the depth of feelings between the other characters within the context, this idea seems perfectly fitting.

Why Van?

Throughout the series, Liv Hewson’s character encounters various challenges, one of which involves supporting Jasmin Savoy Brown’s character during her episodes of sleepwalking. These incidents have led to some unusual behaviors, such as Taissa inadvertently consuming soil. In the following passage, Lisco discusses:

Lisco’s Discussion:
The transformation that Liv Hewson’s van undergoes throughout the series is quite remarkable. It serves as a symbol of her character’s growth and resilience, particularly in dealing with Jasmin Savoy Brown’s character’s sleepwalking issues. These episodes often result in some unconventional actions, such as Taissa accidentally eating dirt during her sleep.

From Liv’s perspective, Van portrays a character that is stoic and strong, with a touch of humor. This character was left for dead on an airplane in Season 1’s Episode 2, and since then has been trying to push aside this traumatic event. However, the past is catching up as it now haunts them. If you paid close attention, you may have noticed that it’s Javi’s hand, the cabin crew member’s hand, and Laura Lee’s hand, all seemingly resurrected, binding them to a chair. The message is clear: they can never physically escape this trauma; it will forever be a part of their identity, shaping their life moving forward.

Based on her traumatic events such as the near-plane crash, facial injury, and cabin fire, it appears that Van’s hallucination is closely related to these traumatic experiences she has endured.

I also didn’t realize Javi’s hand was there. I’m getting chills.

And, What About Shauna?

This leads us to the addition of Shauna, who undeniably appears to be having a significant storyline this season as well.

In her imagination, she finds herself wading in a lake and encounters what appears to be her long-lost son, who was born during childbirth. Lisco described this segment of her artwork as follows:

As a passionate film enthusiast, I find myself deeply moved by Shauna’s heart-wrenching ordeal. At just seventeen years old, she finds herself alone in the wilderness, grappling with the unimaginable loss of her baby – a tragedy that leaves an indelible mark on anyone who experiences it. In this bleak landscape, she embarks on a desperate quest, swimming towards what she perceives as her child’s ghostly figure on the edge of a lake. The sound of a 7-year-old boy echoes through the air, a haunting melody that pulls at her heartstrings. Yet, no matter how hard she swims, she never manages to reach him, never able to save him or embrace him in a comforting hug.

As the camera pans back, offering an aerial view, Shauna appears to be drawn back, as if to suggest that she bears some responsibility for what transpired. Perhaps there was a part of her that never truly wanted to become a mother, a hidden longing that remained unfulfilled. The image serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities and regrets that can accompany such profound loss.

Ugh, so heartbreaking.

I can boldly affirm that I’m not yet prepared for the emotional turmoil this new season might bring upon me and fellow viewers. The trailer suggests a significant character’s demise, we’re still grieving over Juliette Lewis’ departure last season, and there’s a major mystery in the offing – all of which promise an intriguing watch. Moreover, the hallucinations this season seem to expose and emphasize the inner struggles these characters face, hinting at potentially challenging futures for them.

As a cinephile, I highly recommend you tune into TopMob’s exclusive interviews about the gripping series “Yellowjackets”. Don’t forget to join us each week as we delve deeper into the episodes, unraveling their intricacies right here on our site.

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2025-02-23 03:38