This week’s episode takes a subdued turn as characters within the world of “Mayor of Kingstown” express growing disillusionment with the protagonist, Mike McLusky. The narrative centers on the profound realization among supporting characters that Mike, instead of being a beacon of hope and resolution, might actually be the architect of their dilemmas.
In one pivotal scene, prison guard Kevin Jackson warns Mike about a looming drug shipment under the supervision of his boss, Torres. While Mike assures Kevin that he will manage any fallout from this insider information, Kevin skeptically responds, “I hear the words you’re saying. They’re just words.” This sentiment encapsulates Mike’s increasingly hollow assurances, highlighting a central theme of the episode: his failure to act meaningfully amidst the chaos.
The episode, entitled “My Way,” suffers from an overabundance of plot elements that ultimately detract from its potential impact. The third-to-last episode of the season presents a blend of character arcs and storylines that feel rushed and unresolved, leaving viewers with a sense of disconnection rather than satisfaction.
The most notable action occurs when Frank Moses, under Mike’s vague direction, intercepts a drug delivery by violently thwarting the drivers and disposing of the evidence. Unbeknownst to Frank, this maneuver plays directly into Mike’s broader plan, which is to ensnare him in criminal activities while leveraging his influence to secure a favor from ADA Evelyn Foley.
Critics of the narrative direction have noted a troubling inconsistency in character behavior. Frank, introduced earlier in the season as an astute and formidable figure, makes questionable decisions that could lead to his downfall, raising doubts about the writing’s credibility. The ambiguity surrounding Frank’s relationship with the Colombian cartel further complicates the plot, as the audience grapples with mixed signals about his true motivations.
Simultaneously, Warden Nina Hobbs finds herself entangled in a subplot revealing her vulnerabilities—specifically, threats against her daughter that have driven her to align with dangerous elements. As her character unfolds, viewers grasp that she is not as powerful or invulnerable as initially presented.
Additionally, other characters express their frustrations with Mike’s inability to take decisive action. A confrontation between Robert and Ian reveals plans to eliminate Mike, but instead of killing him, Ian resorts to making Robert appear to have fatally harmed himself. This subplot underscores the unpredictability of alliances in Kingstown, as survival instincts come into play.
The dark comedic tones of “Mayor of Kingstown” persist, particularly in exchanges laden with deadpan humor. Ian’s quip to a sulking Mike, asking about his expression, is met with the sardonic retort, “It’s my fucking face,” illustrating the show’s knack for sharp dialogue amid grim circumstances.
In terms of overarching themes, viewers are left pondering the unresolved tensions leading to the upcoming season finale. The narrative’s pacing raises questions about the potential for future developments, especially given the hints of a larger storyline awaiting resolution.
As speculation surrounds the fate of the series, Jeremy Renner hinted at a “cool end” that might necessitate a fifth season, though no official announcements have been made regarding renewals.
Though this episode is criticized for its cluttered execution and lack of a satisfying narrative push, it still retains the signature strengths of the series. Moments that introspect on socio-political realities, such as conversations about historical injustices in Detroit, add depth, contrasting with the more superficial elements that dominate the plot.
However, the buildup towards potential tragic incidents—particularly involving Officer Breen and likely confrontations with Cindy—creates an unsettling vibe, leaving audiences with a sense of impending dread rather than intrigue. The shifting dynamics within Kingstown cast a shadow over its characters, indicating that Mike McLusky’s reputation may suffer irreparably as the series continues to unfold.
