Hey Fringe fans! Let's dive into Season 2, Episode 8, 'What Lies Below,' and see what everyone on Reddit is buzzing about. This episode really threw us some curveballs, didn't it? We saw the team investigating a strange phenomenon involving a sunken submarine and some seriously eerie goings-on. If you're like me, you probably spent a good chunk of the episode with your jaw on the floor, trying to piece together what was happening. The Reddit discussions around this one are always super lively, with fans dissecting every little clue and theory. We'll be breaking down the key plot points, those mind-bending moments, and the fan theories that are still circulating. So, grab your popcorn, maybe a cup of coffee because it's gonna get weird, and let's explore 'What Lies Below' through the eyes of the Fringe Reddit community. It's always fascinating to see how different people interpret the same events, especially in a show as complex and layered as Fringe.

The Core Mystery: A Submarine's Secrets

So, what was the deal with that submarine in "What Lies Below"? This episode's central mystery revolved around a lost Navy submarine, the USS Eldridge, and its entire crew vanishing without a trace. As Agent Olivia Dunham, Peter Bishop, and Walter Bishop delve into the case, they uncover a chilling scenario: the crew didn't just disappear; they were seemingly absorbed into the very structure of the submarine. The Reddit threads are absolutely packed with discussions about the physics-defying nature of this event. Many users pointed out the similarities to the infamous Philadelphia Experiment, a popular urban legend involving a supposed military experiment. Was this Fringe's nod to that legend, or something entirely new and terrifying? Fans debated whether it was a temporal anomaly, a dimensional shift, or some kind of biological horror. The visual representation of the crew being integrated into the metal was particularly unsettling and sparked a lot of "eww" reactions and intense speculation online. Several Redditors hypothesized about the specific scientific principles Walter Bishop might have been exploring or inadvertently triggered. The idea of matter being able to phase into other matter, or the boundaries between states of existence blurring, was a hot topic. It wasn't just about what happened, but how it happened, and the implications for future Fringe events. The sheer dread and isolation felt by the submarine crew, even in their final moments, was palpable, and the online community really latched onto that sense of cosmic horror.

Unpacking Walter's Role and Peculiarities

Walter Bishop, as always, is a cornerstone of Fringe's strangeness, and "What Lies Below" was no exception. In this episode, his unique brand of genius and his often disturbing methods came to the forefront. Redditors had a field day analyzing Walter's reactions and contributions to solving the submarine mystery. His fascination with the bizarre, coupled with his often unsettling experiments, meant he was crucial in understanding the absorption phenomenon. We saw him getting his hands dirty, quite literally, with the submarine's components, trying to comprehend the molecular-level changes. Discussions often centered on Walter's ethical boundaries, or lack thereof, when faced with such an extreme scientific puzzle. Was he purely driven by scientific curiosity, or was there a hint of personal involvement or past experience that resonated with the submarine's fate? The way he handled the situation, with a mix of scientific rigor and childlike wonder, is classic Walter. Many fans on Reddit shared their favorite Walter-isms from the episode, highlighting his eccentricities and his moments of surprising clarity. His cryptic remarks and often disturbing analogies were dissected, with users trying to glean deeper meaning from his pronouncements. The relationship between Walter and Peter, and how Peter grappled with his father's often questionable actions, was also a recurring theme in the discussions. The love-hate dynamic is just so compelling, and this episode definitely added fuel to that fire. Walter's ultimate solution, involving some sort of vibrational frequency, was a classic Fringe move – complex, slightly terrifying, and oddly effective.

Olivia's Determination and the Psychic Connection

Olivia Dunham, our resolute FBI agent, faced a particularly challenging case in "What Lies Below," and her unwavering determination shone through. Reddit users consistently praised Olivia's grit and her ability to push through terrifying circumstances. She's the anchor of the team, the one who often has to deal with the most visceral and dangerous aspects of Fringe science. In this episode, her investigation into the submarine led her into some incredibly claustrophobic and unnerving situations. The discussions often highlighted Olivia's bravery, particularly when confronting the unknown. Her empathy for the victims, even in such a bizarre scenario, is a defining characteristic that resonates with viewers. We saw her pushing the boundaries of what was humanly possible to understand and resolve the crisis. Furthermore, the ongoing exploration of Olivia's psychic abilities and her connection to Peter and Walter was a hot topic on the forums. While not as central in this specific episode as some others, the underlying tension and the hints of her unique sensitivities are always present. Fans speculated on how her abilities might have played a role, even subconsciously, in her approach to the submarine incident. Could she sense the residual trauma or the strange energies at play? The Reddit community is always eager to dissect these subtle plot threads, looking for foreshadowing and connections to the larger mythology of the show. Olivia's resilience in the face of overwhelming odds is a constant source of admiration among the fanbase.

Peter Bishop: The Bridge Between Worlds

Peter Bishop, the reluctant genius and the son of the eccentric Walter, played his usual vital role in bridging the gap between the fantastical and the logical in "What Lies Below." His skepticism, combined with his deep understanding of his father's work, makes him the perfect audience surrogate. On Reddit, Peter's perspective is often discussed, with fans appreciating his grounding influence on the often-outlandish events. Discussions frequently revolved around Peter's internal struggle: his desire for a normal life versus his pull into the bizarre world of Fringe science. This episode was no different, as he navigated the dangers of the submarine with a mix of scientific deduction and exasperation at his father's antics. Fans particularly enjoyed the dynamic between Peter and Olivia, noting their growing partnership and the subtle romantic tension. Their interactions often provide moments of levity and genuine human connection amidst the chaos. Many Redditors shared their theories about Peter's ultimate destiny and his role in the unfolding universe-spanning narrative. His unique position, caught between two worlds and two families, makes him a pivotal character whose journey is closely watched. The episode allowed Peter to showcase his intelligence and his bravery, often acting as the voice of reason when Walter's experiments went off the rails. His constant need to protect Olivia and his father, while also seeking answers for himself, makes him one of the most relatable characters in the series.

Fan Theories and Future Implications

"What Lies Below" left the Reddit community with a plethora of theories about its implications for the rest of Fringe Season 2 and beyond. The most popular theories centered on the nature of the absorption phenomenon and whether it was a precursor to larger, more dangerous events. Could this kind of molecular merging happen on a larger scale? Fans speculated if the technology or scientific principle behind the submarine incident could be weaponized or if it was another piece of the puzzle related to the Observers or the parallel universe. The idea that the absorbed crew might still exist in some form, perhaps as sentient energy or trapped within the submarine's hull, was a recurring and chilling thought. Many Redditors tried to connect the dots between this episode and other Fringe events, searching for patterns and foreshadowing. Was this a standalone anomaly, or part of a grander design? The impact of such extreme events on the fabric of reality was a frequent topic of debate. Furthermore, discussions often touched upon the ethical considerations of the science displayed. The potential for unintended consequences and the dangers of unchecked scientific ambition are themes that resonate deeply with the show's audience. The episode served as a stark reminder of how easily scientific progress could spiral into terrifying outcomes, and the Reddit community's thoughtful analysis of these possibilities only deepened their appreciation for the show's intricate storytelling.

In conclusion, Fringe Season 2, Episode 8, "What Lies Below," remains a fan favorite on Reddit for its chilling mystery, Walter's signature eccentricities, Olivia's unwavering strength, and Peter's grounding presence. The discussions online continue to dissect its scientific concepts and its place within the larger Fringe mythology, proving that this episode left a lasting impression on the show's dedicated fanbase.