Season finales often leave us feeling uneasy, but Rectify delivered a surprisingly optimistic conclusion. The show beautifully explored the world and life, creating a story about just desserts and the truth. It consistently highlights the beauty of everyday life, such as reconciliation and family. “The Source” painted a stunning portrait of what we can expect from more Rectify episodes. Although it’s sad to see the season end, the finale leaves us excited for the future.
Changes and Revelations in Rectify
In this week’s episode, Daniel’s relocation leads to numerous changes for those around him. Jon Stern’s passion is reignited due to the Trey Willis/George Melton investigation. Trey finds himself cornered and confesses, but it might not be enough to save him. Daniel embarks on a road trip with his mother before arriving at the Canaan Project house in Nashville. Tawney moves back into the house, and Teddy moves out.
The episode was filled with beauty, both visually and emotionally. The imagery, especially during Janet and Daniel’s road trip, was breathtaking. The shots of Daniel in front of the prison where he lost 18 years of his life were truly remarkable. The scenes with Janet and Daniel conveyed that Daniel is now on the outside of his old life. With fewer flashbacks to death row, it seems that Daniel is ready and able to move on. The ocean washing over him and the scene with the child on the beach all pointed to Daniel shedding the fog and becoming a human being. This segment of the episode, featuring two of the show’s strongest actors (Aden Young and J. Smith Cameron), was one of the most hopeful moments Rectify has presented.
Hope and Justice in Rectify
The hopeful atmosphere surrounding Daniel was partly due to the events happening around and because of him. As a viewer, it’s hard not to feel delighted at Trey Willis’ arrest. We know that George Melton killed himself, but the real question is why George is dead. If the statute of limitations for rape had expired, what did George have to worry about? Why did Trey cover up his death and try to frame Daniel? I firmly believe that Daniel did not commit any crimes against Hanna Dean. It was refreshing to see Daniel enjoying life’s beauty while Trey faced the consequences of his actions. As I mentioned last week, I won’t mind seeing Trey go down for George’s murder because it seems like he deserves it.
The beauty of this episode wasn’t limited to Daniel’s hope or Trey’s justice. There were many other beautiful moments. The scene between Jon Stern and Amantha was one of the most touching moments on television this year. It became clear later that Jon didn’t distance himself from Amantha because of her, but to focus on the case and bring the Senator down. The scene with Jon and the Senator was incredibly satisfying, as it’s evident that the Senator is corrupt. His stroke earlier in the season was a brilliant move, as it created more of the well-used silence that Rectify is known for. I couldn’t help but grin during Jon’s conversation with the mostly incapacitated lawman.
Family Dynamics and Love in Rectify
Other beautiful moments worth mentioning are the dinner and card game with Amantha, Teddy, and Jared, and the following scene with Teddy and Ted. Both depicted honesty and family love. Teddy and Amantha have never seemed to get along, but when circumstances changed, they showed sympathy for one another. Ted reached out to Teddy in love to express his humanity, hoping to help Teddy save his marriage. I am always amazed by the portrayals of family dynamics and love in Rectify. The show captures humans being real in a fictional world, and I can’t get enough of the authentic, beautiful, true-to-life images it creates.
It’s been a pleasure to cover this season of Rectify and discuss it with everyone. I hope you’re all looking forward to Season 4 as much as I am!
What did you guys think of the season finale? Let us know in the comments!
[Photo via SundanceTV]
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