That's the problem with you Americans...you watch too many movies and you think the deal can always be changed...and it can't. We're partners now and that's all there is to it..." After last week's mix of intrigue and despair, this week's took a much slower and silent take on the world of Fargo. The element of dark comedy creeps in as well when you don't expect it and you don't know whether to laugh or whimper. The characters that Noah Hawley has introduced this year are very strong, and given that there's far less than last year, more chance to spend time with each one properly. Whether it's the Stussy brothers' opposing personalities, Gloria Burgle's quiet confidence or V. M. Varga's disgusting teeth, there's a colourful pallet of new faces to behold.
Unfortunately, despite taking it slow this time around, not enough time was given to Gloria's story, meaning that there's still a gaping hole of empathetic feelings still to fill between her character and the audience. The other characters, however, are given a good amount of screen time, with the Stussy brother feud getting a little out of hand, thanks to Sy's, perhaps formidable, loyalty to Emmit. Although brief, the introduction of Donny was pleasant, and may be the replacement comic relief character that Ted Danson left behind, but will never be equal. As with every season of Fargo so far, Hawley makes great use of the time zone he's chosen for his story. 2010 is an interesting time where technology has crossed a tall threshold through the digital age. With such an isolated town, as is evident with Gloria's complete lack of knowledge and love for computers, technology hasn't quite caught up with world. Numerous references are made throughout to the ignorance of an older generation who are perhaps a bit behind the times, but I do love the scene with Irv Blumkin as he attempts to use Google. It is made all the more ominous, however, when his picture is taken by the computer, leaving Varga's henchmen to dispatch of him for prowling too close to the dragon's den. With the opening premise set in East Germany in 1988, I imagine many keen eyes and ears will be looking and listening out for Russian references. There were a number, including a new character who shares the same name as the man in the first scene, Yuri. What connection they might have is left in the open at the moment, but Hawley no doubt has a few twists planned along the way. Nevertheless, he has a way about him to set bring out his characters in the most original methods possible. The final scene especially is pretty definitive, as we see how Emmit's financial decision may have cost him the integrity of his career as Varga now permanently (it seems) moves into his office. David Thewlis plays his deceptively malicious character with ease, and like Billy Bob Thornton and Bokeem Woodbine before him, his demeanour is filled with terrifying confidence that will turn anyone in his perimeter uneasy. The Principle of Restricted Choice isn't filled with wow factor, instead it concentrates on its characters with great precision. More from Gloria Burgle would be helpful, but I'm happy to see how this one pans out. We could be looking at another winning series for Fargo, as the plot threads begin to converge and diverge in the most ridiculous and effortless ways possible. I for one am very excited. 8/10
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorA very passionate Welsh nerd... Archives
October 2017
Categories
All
|