This might be my favorite episode the show has done... and easily one of the best.
They covered Gyp, Nucky and Eli, Richard, Gillian, and not only explained deeper elements of their story and character, but provided a glimpse for the future for each one. It reminded me so much of what The Sopranos did so well.
Gyp's story was perfect.
- It starts with him meticulously brushing his suit, only to be interrupted by the women of his family. So we see how Gyp is criticized at home and that might put him on edge and gives him something to prove. Then, we get to see him in the church and that point is really brought home. His speech about God placing things in front of him, that he can almost touch, only to take it away. "I'm a mistake you made?!?" Gyp is certainly crazy, but we see where his anger comes from, feelings of inadequacy and low self-worth. And finally, Gyp sits down with Masseria and basically spells out exactly what is going to happen. Luciano is a new breed of mobster and unless Masseria lets Gyp take them on, he's going down. "They're building something that doesn't include us".. From beginning to end I loved how they handled his story.
Nucky and Eli
- It's really interesting because while Eli did Nucky wrong, he was spared and whether or not Nucky wants it.. a chance for redemption. Eli showed his worth and saw the ambush coming, he's more valuable than Nucky gave him credit for.. and now he'll get his chance. Nucky had some great lines and moments in that conversation "You think I'm bottomless... and still you call yourself my brother?"
Nucky and Margaret
- Obviously their relationship is on the rocks and perhaps past the point of no return, but the episode showed there's still some possibility for them to reconcile, if only for a moment. Nucky did his juggling act, Margaret sang, and they each saw something in one another that reminded them of the better times. And while that was done brilliantly, we get the reminded in the end that despite all of that... things won't change. Nucky offers to show her how to juggle, and she simply says "It's too late, I'm sorry". Too late to juggle, too late to fix their problems
Richard put himself out there and make a connection with a woman. One of his best episodes as well. She took special considerations for his difficulty eating and went along with him after her dad freaked out. Plus Richard got a great line in "Let him go or I'll kill you", and was completely believable in that line.
Gillian finally admitted Jimmy was dead. At first I didn't care too much about this fake Jimmy (and Gillian probably didn't either), but right before it happened I really did feel for him. He was a decent guy, only fault was he looked too much like Jimmy. It will be interesting to see what happens next for her now that she'll be able to declare him dead officially.
All in all, fantastic episode.
@ Eli's wife side stepping Marge's reveal when she tried to trash Nucky after he got all that praise. She was looking for some confidant to join in on the hate but I notice she doesn't even mention the behind back **** she's done like cheating as well.
