Then, suddenly, in episode eight…
Before we get there, dear reader, let’s return to Bridgerton House for the second half of Benedict and Sophie’s happily ever after. That ending isn’t a distraction, because this is romance and fiction is part of the promise.
At the end of episode 404, “A Gift from a Gentleman,” Benedict (Luke Thompson) asked Sophie (Yerin Ha) an awkward question: “Will you be my wife?” The internet was crazy. Everyone wondered how he could do such a thing, insulting his love for her. However, we must remember that Benedict did not know about Sophie’s previous pain. He had yet to meet her, and she was raised to suit The Ton’s needs. Class and channel boundaries leave pairs on the border. The way they get around the obstacle is why we watch the show, and when lines like “…and the Duke of Hastings’ ground”, it’s very satisfying.
As Lady Whistledown (portrayed by Julie Andrews) welcomes us back, she reveals the scandal that accompanies Benedict and Sophie’s predicament. Meanwhile, Benedict awaits an answer in an episode titled “Yes or No.” For a man who dates so often and so widely, Benedict knows very little about the state of the heart. I think we can be glad that he is about to find it.
At this point in the season, nostalgia is dealt with quickly, and we don’t see enough Benophie a couple who know each other without the masks between them—whether they are delusional or delusional. The tone of the first half of the second half also feels soapy at times, focusing on the day-to-day feelings of the group’s characters. The balance comes from character development, something we missed in S3. This is especially true for Eloise (Claudia Jessie). For the first time, he feels more multifaceted than a foil. However Francesca (Hannah Dodd) and Violet (Ruth Gemmell) are fully fleshed out in Part 2, too.
Even the Queen (Golda Rosheuvel) reveals more depth than we have seen since the “Queen Charlotte” series. It’s equally lovely to see Alice Mondrich (Emma Naomi) come into her own, creating her own space within The Ton. The Mondrich family (with Martins Imhangbe as Will) gets a bigger purpose this season as it joins the “Bridgerton” inner circle. It’s great to see them develop as they navigate their changed circumstances.
Of course, we can’t forget our lovely Lady Whistledown, whose cheeky almost omniscient narrative is a fan favorite. Change is coming, dear gentle reader, as Penelope (Nicola Coughlan) begins to understand herself and her goals in a new way. There are also surprises, but I’ll leave those to you to discover.
One thing to look forward to is the return of Kate (Simone Ashley) and Anthony (Jonathan Bailey), the “Bridgerton” couple with the best (and hottest) chemistry. Debate with cobblestones if you must—I will not accept arguments. Nice to see them with their son Edmond. Somehow, though, we wish Anthony would keep his opinions to himself. Fortunately, Benedict is beginning to see what he wants and what he is willing to sacrifice to get it.
As I said, episodes 5-6.5 lose some of the plot within the Romance. Instead, it focuses on an almost “Women’s Fiction” approach. Several of the male partners do not play to the camera, as if they are not really the focus. That is probably true.
Speaking of unusual camera angles, the worst example comes in episode 406, “The Passing Winter,” during an emotional scene that defines the second half of season 4 and shapes how several characters move forward. At this crucial turning point, we are reduced to seeing the male actor’s face. That’s ironic as he and his romantic partner are dealing with heartbreak. Seeing the signs of both faces would have hurt viewers—as it should. “Bridgerton” fans want to be immersed because they are invested. The confusing blocking of this scene is a missed opportunity. You’ll understand why when you get there.
Happily, the series of confessions and soul-bearing between Benedict and Sophie moves forward with a tangible but tender truth. That is appreciated, and it allows us to believe that they will have a happy life together. My favorite scene is when Benedict says, “Sophie. It’s clear that a woman despises you…” It’s amazing to see her see things she doesn’t see herself. The pairing also gets the spicy scenes that the fandom has been waiting for. Some readers of the book are waiting for it. Friendship is another big topic. We have the pleasure of taking a closer look at a few of them. One of them is the turn of Francesca and Michaela. It’s very good.
Speaking of great emotion, I have to say, Parts 1 and 2 don’t seem completely familiar. I digress, but some of the story beats from the first are reversed or seem to go awry in the second. Perhaps to give the story and future romance more room to blossom. No complaints there. According to the story, those distractions are good for relationship development—even if they fall apart a little to keep going.
Then suddenly, in episode 8, it happened. When I say all’s well that ends well, I mean the last episode is a flashback to the heart-pounding “Bridgerton”—which didn’t have many fans. It’s smart too, emotional too, and surprising too. Even clothing is returning to luxury.
Hijis are on their way to this’I’m always happy’ you will find it at the top. Just be warned, if you explore the mind behind the joint ventures of the Bridgertons, Lady Danbury, and the Mondrichs, it might come apart. Still, the way their plans and schemes develop the story is worth a wink and a wink. There’s even a surprise or two at the end. One of them brings something fans have been waiting for since Kate and Anthony’s season. Be sure to stay tuned after the credits roll for the final episode.
Finally, hopes of “Bridgerton” returning to its big love glory were bolstered by the perfect storm of episode 8.
Ah, but we can’t close without predicting who will lead next season. Can we? I’d bet season 5 will be about Eloise, but with an unexpected twist. After the turn of events this time, Francesca may have to wait.
So, we saved the biggest season 5 teaser for last: Who is our new fan? And dear reader, I am completely there.
It is currently streaming on Netflix.
