The final episode of HBO’s gritty prison drama, Oz, titled “Exeunt Omnes,” delivers a truly Shakespearean ending, marked by violence, betrayal, and a poignant commentary on the cyclical nature of incarceration. Glynn’s vision of reforming Emerald City ultimately collapses in a bloodbath, leaving a sense of hopelessness and questioning whether any real change is possible within the confines of a system designed to punish.
The Carnage Unfolds: A Scene-by-Scene Breakdown
“Exeunt Omnes” throws viewers directly into the boiling tension that’s been simmering throughout the sixth season. The rivalry between the Homeboys, Aryans, and Italians reaches its peak, fueled by power struggles and long-held grudges.
The episode opens with the aftermath of Ryan O’Reily’s machinations. He continues to play puppeteer, manipulating events to his advantage, even from his weakened state. His influence, despite his failing health, remains a crucial catalyst for the unfolding chaos.
The episode’s most shocking moment arguably revolves around the demise of several key characters, including Hoyt, Poet, and even indirectly, Governor James Devlin. Hoyt’s execution, Poet’s vengeful attack, and Devlin’s stroke following the unveiling of his corrupt dealings create a domino effect, obliterating several central figures in one fell swoop.
Legacy of Violence and Redemption
While bloodshed dominates the episode, moments of quiet introspection and failed redemption attempts offer a brief respite.
The O’Reily Paradox
Ryan O’Reily’s character arc is one of the most complex in the series. While he orchestrates much of the violence, there are hints of genuine affection for Cyril and a desire for his younger brother to escape the cycle of violence. Yet, his methods are always morally ambiguous, highlighting the paradox of a character who seeks good through evil means. The final shot of him, lying helpless, seemingly contemplating his choices, is a powerful indictment of his life choices.
Beecher and Schillinger: An Uneasy Truce?
The unlikely, albeit temporary, alliance between Tobias Beecher and Vern Schillinger offers a flicker of hope amid the carnage. They are forced to confront their shared experiences and animosity, even as they stand together against a common threat. This brief understanding underscores the capacity for even the most hardened individuals to find common ground in desperate circumstances, albeit fleetingly.
Glynn’s Shattered Dream
Warden Leo Glynn’s efforts to create a rehabilitative environment within Emerald City crumble before his eyes. The violence highlights the limitations of his vision and the deeply entrenched problems within the prison system. His final scenes reflect a sense of defeat and resignation, acknowledging the monumental task of reforming a system seemingly designed for failure.
FAQs: Deeper Dive into “Exeunt Omnes”
Q1: What does “Exeunt Omnes” mean, and why is it significant to the episode?
“Exeunt Omnes” is a Latin stage direction meaning “everyone exits,” typically used in Shakespearean tragedies. In Oz, it signifies the near-total annihilation of the main characters and the apparent collapse of the Emerald City experiment. The title underscores the episode’s tragic and final nature.
Q2: What were Ryan O’Reily’s motivations in the final episode?
O’Reily’s motivations were multifaceted. He aimed to protect Cyril, maintain his power within Oz, and expose Governor Devlin’s corruption. However, his actions were always driven by a complex mix of self-preservation, loyalty, and a twisted sense of justice.
Q3: How did Poet die?
Poet was killed in a brutal confrontation with the Aryans. Fuelled by his desire for revenge after the death of his associate, he launched an attack, resulting in his own demise. His death underscores the cycle of violence that permeates Oz.
Q4: How did Governor James Devlin die?
Governor Devlin suffered a stroke after Peter Marie exposes his corrupt dealings. The stress of the revelation, coupled with the years of unethical behavior, proved fatal. His death symbolizes the corruption that extends beyond the prison walls.
Q5: What happened to Tobias Beecher at the end of the series?
Beecher survives the events of the final episode. He’s last seen alongside Schillinger, having forged a temporary truce in the face of the chaos. While he’s not necessarily “redeemed,” he endures, bearing the scars of his experiences in Oz.
Q6: Did Cyril O’Reily survive the final episode?
Yes, Cyril O’Reily survived the final episode, but he’s left in a vegetative state after being manipulated by his brother, Ryan. While physically alive, his life is irrevocably altered, highlighting the devastating consequences of Ryan’s actions.
Q7: What was the significance of the final scene with Warden Glynn?
The final scene with Warden Glynn emphasizes the futility of his reform efforts. He is left disillusioned and defeated, realizing the deeply ingrained problems within the prison system are too systemic to overcome with his Emerald City project.
Q8: Did Emerald City succeed in its goal of rehabilitation?
The final episode makes it abundantly clear that Emerald City ultimately failed to achieve its intended goal of rehabilitation. The violence, corruption, and power struggles demonstrate the limitations of the program and the challenges of changing deeply ingrained criminal behavior. It serves as a stark critique of the prison system itself.
Q9: What role did Peter Marie Reimondo play in the final episode?
Peter Marie Reimondo, the nun, played a crucial role in exposing Governor Devlin’s corruption. Her unwavering dedication to justice and her refusal to be silenced ultimately contribute to Devlin’s downfall. She represents a moral compass within the amoral landscape of Oz.
Q10: What was the relationship between the Aryans and the Homeboys in the final season?
The relationship between the Aryans and the Homeboys was characterized by intense rivalry and racial tension. Both groups were vying for power and control within Oz, leading to frequent clashes and escalating violence. The final episode sees this conflict reach its boiling point.
Q11: What happened to the character Miguel Alvarez in “Exeunt Omnes”?
Miguel Alvarez survived the events of the final episode. He remained a volatile presence within Oz, grappling with his inner demons and struggling to break free from the cycle of violence. While he doesn’t achieve a clear redemption, his survival suggests a continued struggle for self-improvement.
Q12: What is the overall message or theme of the final episode of Oz?
The overall message of the final episode is one of cynicism and despair. It suggests that the prison system is inherently flawed and incapable of true rehabilitation. The cycle of violence, corruption, and betrayal continues unabated, leaving a lasting impression of hopelessness. The episode explores themes of power, morality, and the limitations of human nature within a brutal and unforgiving environment. The seemingly endless cycle of revenge continues leaving the viewer to wonder if change is ever possible.