The Boys Season 5 Episode 4 Preview: Who Gets V-1? Butcher vs Hughie and Homelander Face-Off Intensifies

Prime Video has dropped a fresh teaser for this Wednesday’s instalment of ‘The Boys’, and it looks like the hunt is officially on for ‘V-One.’

After the gut-wrenching events of the third episode, which saw Homelander finally cross the ultimate line by nearly beating his own son, Ryan, to death, the tension has shifted from personal vendettas to a literal race for survival. With Ryan currently recovering after his brief stint hiding in Russia, Butcher is more motivated than ever to put the elder Supe in the ground for good.

The Boys Season 5 Episode 4: What is V-One and Why Does Everyone Want It?

V-One isn't just another vial of blue liquid; it’s the ‘OG’ version of Compound V. This specific variant is what allegedly granted Soldier Boy his immortality and, more importantly, his immunity to the Supe-killing virus the gang has been banking on.

For Butcher and the lads, V-One represents a chance to turn the tide. For Homelander, it’s the final piece of the puzzle. He isn't just looking to survive; he’s looking to ascend. Showrunner Eric Kripke has been quite vocal about Homelander’s deteriorating mental state, noting that the leader of The Seven views this serum as his ticket to literal godhood.

The promo confirms that our heroes are heading to Fort Harmony to scavenge whatever remains of the original formula. However, they aren’t alone. Homelander and Soldier Boy are hot on their heels.

Homelander is motivated by a fracturing psyche, even hallucinating an angelic Madelyn Stillwell who is egging on his crusade.

Soldier Boy remains a wild card, indestructible and harbouring a deep-seated loathing for his biological son.

Butcher is running out of time and options, desperate to weaponise the virus before Homelander becomes truly untouchable.

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The Boys Season 5 Episode 4: Gen V Students Cameo

While the teaser focused heavily on the V-One hunt, fans are still scanning the horizon for the Gen V crew. We know Marie Moreau and her classmates are slated to appear this season, and with Kripke describing this episode as ‘the end of act one,’ the timing for a Godolkin University cameo couldn’t be better.

Marie’s blood-manipulation powers could be the exact equaliser the Boys need, especially since Starlight has already laid the groundwork for an alliance. Whether they show up at Fort Harmony or remain a surprise for the mid-season climax remains to be seen.

The Psychological Collapse of Homelander

The most chilling aspect of the upcoming episode isn't just the physical threat, but Homelander’s cracking psyche. Kripke recently mentioned that Homelander’s visions of Stillwell are a manifestation of his total break from reality. He truly believes he is on a holy mission, making him more dangerous than ever before.

If he gets his hands on the V-One, the virus the gang has worked so hard to perfect becomes useless. It’s a do-or-die moment for Butcher’s team, and in the world of The Boys, do usually involves a lot of collateral damage.

The Boys is currently available to stream on Prime Video.

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Image Courtesy: IMDb