Something Beautiful: The Tense Aftermath In Better Call Saul Season 4, Episode 3
The third episode of Better Call Saul's fourth season, titled "Something Beautiful," aired on August 20, 2018, on AMC in the United States. This pivotal episode continues the intense narrative that has gripped fans since the series' inception, weaving together multiple storylines with the precision and tension that has become the show's hallmark. As alliances shift and characters find themselves in increasingly precarious positions, "Something Beautiful" delivers a masterclass in slow-burn storytelling that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
In this episode, we witness Jimmy putting a risky plan into motion, while Nacho finds himself in the crosshairs as alliances shift around him. The aftermath of the previous episode's dramatic events unfolds, with Victor and Tyrus clearing up the mess left behind. As Gus Fring's ruthless nature becomes increasingly apparent, we see parallels with his treatment of characters like Jesse and Walt in Breaking Bad, and now Nacho in Better Call Saul. This episode serves as a crucial turning point in the series, setting the stage for the complex web of relationships and power dynamics that will continue to evolve throughout the season.
The Dangerous Game of Power and Deception
As alliances shift in the criminal underworld, Nacho finds himself in the crosshairs, caught between powerful forces vying for control. The episode opens with a tense scene on a desert road, where Victor lays down a spike strip and drives Arturo's car over it, shredding the tires. Tyrus follows in the Cadillac with Nacho, who is driving, forced to witness the brutal efficiency of Gus Fring's operation. This moment serves as a stark reminder of the danger Nacho faces as he navigates the treacherous waters of cartel politics.
The power dynamics at play in "Something Beautiful" are complex and multifaceted. Gus Fring, the master manipulator, continues to assert his dominance over the Salamanca family and their associates. His willingness to go to extreme lengths to maintain control is evident in the cold-blooded execution of Arturo, a move that sends shockwaves through the criminal underworld. This act of violence is not just about eliminating a threat; it's a calculated message to all who might consider crossing Gus Fring.
Nacho's position becomes increasingly precarious as he realizes the full extent of Gus's ruthlessness. The young criminal, who has shown himself to be intelligent and resourceful, now finds himself trapped between the Salamancas and Fring's operation. His survival depends on his ability to navigate this dangerous terrain, making calculated moves to protect himself and his father. The tension in these scenes is palpable, as viewers are left wondering how Nacho will extricate himself from this increasingly complex and deadly situation.
Jimmy's Risky Plan and Kim's Contemplation
While the criminal underworld is in turmoil, Jimmy McGill puts a risky plan into motion that could have far-reaching consequences for his future. The episode showcases Jimmy's growing desperation and his willingness to push the boundaries of legality to achieve his goals. His actions in "Something Beautiful" demonstrate the slippery slope he's on, as he moves closer to fully embracing his Saul Goodman persona.
Kim Wexler, on the other hand, finds herself at a crossroads, contemplating her future as she watches Jimmy's increasingly erratic behavior. Her internal struggle is a central theme of the episode, as she weighs her loyalty to Jimmy against her own professional aspirations and moral compass. The tension between Kim and Jimmy reaches a new height, with Kim beginning to question whether she can continue to support Jimmy's questionable choices.
The episode provides a fascinating look at the evolving relationship between Jimmy and Kim. Their dynamic, once characterized by mutual support and understanding, is now strained by Jimmy's increasingly reckless behavior. Kim's contemplation of her future serves as a poignant reminder of the personal costs of Jimmy's transformation into Saul Goodman. As she considers her options, viewers are left wondering whether Kim will ultimately be able to pull Jimmy back from the brink or if she too will be dragged down by his descent into the criminal underworld.
The Aftermath and Mike's Investigation
This episode gives us the aftermath of the end of the previous one, as Victor and Tyrus clear up the evidence of Arturo's murder. The meticulous cleanup operation showcases the cold efficiency of Gus Fring's criminal enterprise. Every detail is accounted for, from the spike strip used to disable Arturo's car to the careful staging of the scene to make it appear as though outsiders were responsible. This attention to detail speaks volumes about the level of control and planning that goes into every aspect of Gus's operations.
Meanwhile, Mike Ehrmantraut's investigation into the mysterious truck heist continues to unfold. His methodical approach to uncovering the truth stands in stark contrast to the chaos and violence erupting in other parts of the criminal underworld. Mike's scenes in "Something Beautiful" serve as a reminder of his crucial role in the larger narrative, as he pieces together information that will likely have significant implications for the future of the series.
The juxtaposition of Mike's careful investigation with the brutal power plays occurring elsewhere creates a compelling narrative tension. While others resort to violence and intimidation, Mike relies on his intellect and experience to navigate the dangerous world he inhabits. His scenes in this episode hint at the larger conspiracy at play, suggesting that there are forces at work beyond the immediate conflicts between the Salamancas and Fring's operation.
Critical Reception and Analysis
"Something Beautiful" has received positive reviews from critics and audiences alike, with many praising the episode's tense atmosphere and character development. On Rotten Tomatoes, the episode maintains strong scores, reflecting the consistently high quality of Better Call Saul's storytelling. The episode's ability to balance multiple storylines while maintaining a cohesive narrative has been particularly lauded.
Critics have noted the episode's skillful use of tension and its exploration of the complex relationships between characters. The scene where Nacho watches as Victor and Tyrus execute their plan is particularly noteworthy, with many reviewers highlighting the power of the silent moments and the actors' nuanced performances. The episode's pacing, which allows for moments of quiet reflection amidst the chaos, has been praised for its effectiveness in building suspense and developing character arcs.
The episode's title, "Something Beautiful," has been the subject of much discussion among fans and critics. Some interpret it as an ironic commentary on the brutal actions of the characters, while others see it as a reference to the intricate web of relationships and power dynamics that define the criminal underworld. The ambiguity of the title adds an extra layer of depth to the episode, inviting viewers to consider the complex moral landscape of the series.
The Ripple Effect of Arturo's Death
In "Something Beautiful," Bit gangster Arturo's death sets off both a literal chain reaction — i.e., the metal spike strip Victor and Tyrus lay out to help stage Arturo's death as outsider sabotage — and a figurative one that will have far-reaching consequences for all the characters involved. The episode masterfully depicts how one violent act can set in motion a series of events that will reshape the power dynamics of the criminal underworld.
The staging of Arturo's death as the work of outsiders is a calculated move by Gus Fring to maintain plausible deniability and avoid direct conflict with the Salamancas. This manipulation of events showcases Gus's strategic thinking and his ability to control the narrative to his advantage. However, the episode also hints at the potential for this deception to unravel, as characters like Nacho and Mike begin to piece together the truth behind Arturo's murder.
The ripple effect of Arturo's death extends beyond the immediate power struggle between Gus and the Salamancas. It impacts characters like Jimmy and Kim, who are indirectly affected by the shifting dynamics of the criminal world they are increasingly entangled with. The episode suggests that no one in Albuquerque is truly safe from the consequences of this act of violence, setting the stage for further conflict and drama in subsequent episodes.
Conclusion: A Masterful Episode in a Stellar Series
"Something Beautiful" stands as a testament to Better Call Saul's ability to deliver compelling, character-driven drama that keeps viewers engaged and invested in the fates of its complex characters. The episode's exploration of power dynamics, moral ambiguity, and the consequences of violent actions adds depth to the series' narrative, while its masterful pacing and tension-building keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
As alliances shift and characters find themselves in increasingly dangerous situations, "Something Beautiful" sets the stage for the dramatic events that will unfold in the remainder of the season. The episode's careful balance of multiple storylines, its nuanced character development, and its ability to create tension through both action and quiet moments of reflection showcase the series at its best.
For fans of Better Call Saul and Breaking Bad alike, "Something Beautiful" offers a rich tapestry of interconnected narratives that reward close attention and analysis. As the series continues to explore the transformation of Jimmy McGill into Saul Goodman and the rise of Gus Fring as a criminal mastermind, episodes like "Something Beautiful" remind us why this prequel series has earned its place as one of the most critically acclaimed shows on television.
