Life Is Strange - Polarized
Overview -
'Polarized' is the fifth and final episode of 'Life is Strange, following 'Cocoon', 'Out of Time', 'Chaos Theory', and 'Dark Room'. 'Life is Strange' is an episodic series developed by DONTNOD, who was once known only for 'Remember Me.' With Square Enix's help as publisher, DONTNOD has broken new ground. Could there be a second season in the works?
Video Review
'Polarized' uses a slightly different aesthetic to portray Max’s manipulation of time, one that incorporates her photography. It’s not melodramatic, but does seem more mature and cinematic. Otherwise there are few visual changes from last episode.
Audio Review
Max’s actress gives her best performance of the season, managing to stay believable when the events around her are definitely not. Chloe is better as well, having struggled somewhat over the episodes (to be fair, the dialogue often sounds forced when the characters try to use teenage slang, which might be more of a writing issue). There are still some lip syncing issues.
Final Thoughts
'Polarized' is a fitting end to a strange game that has been reliably decent, with the occasional wondrous high and disappointing low. It uses a mix of storytelling techniques that have not been seen previously in the 'Life is Strange' series, but gets its message across to the audience. What precisely that message is, is up for the viewer to decide.