The final episode of You Season 4 culminates in a dramatic confrontation where Joe Goldberg, finally confronting his fractured psyche, attempts to definitively sever ties with his obsessive and violent tendencies, a process marked by bloodshed and ultimately, a chilling realization: he can’t escape who he is. While he publicly takes responsibility for Rhys Montrose’s crimes, allowing Kate Galvin to inherit her father’s fortune and solidify her power, the ending reveals a darker truth: Joe has fully embraced his dark side, confident in his wealth and Kate’s unwavering support, setting the stage for a potentially terrifying Season 5.
The Confrontation and the Confession
The episode revolves around Joe’s internal struggle and external manipulation. He grapples with the reality of Rhys Montrose being a manifestation of his own dark impulses. His attempts to “kill” Rhys within himself are visualized through violent acts aimed at the real Rhys, leading to a frenetic and bloody showdown. The episode then pivots to Joe’s decision to confess, ostensibly to protect Kate and attempt to atone for his crimes.
Exposing the Truth (or a Version Thereof)
Joe’s public confession is a carefully crafted narrative. He admits to the crimes attributed to Rhys, framing himself as a victim of Rhys’s manipulation. This allows him to simultaneously appear remorseful and absolve himself of the guilt for the more recent murders, protecting his image and his relationship with Kate. He leverages his past, mentioning Love and other victims, to paint a picture of a man struggling with his demons.
Kate’s Influence and Acceptance
A crucial element of the finale is Kate’s acceptance of Joe. Despite learning about his past, she chooses to stay with him, seemingly accepting his explanation and believing in his potential for change. This acceptance, however, is presented with a layer of ambiguity. Is she truly naive, or is she drawn to Joe’s darkness, perhaps seeing a reflection of her own ambition and willingness to do what it takes to achieve her goals? Kate’s inherited wealth and newfound power further complicate the dynamic, giving Joe access to resources he’s never had before.
The Haunting Mirror and the Final Reveal
The final moments of the episode are the most unsettling. Joe stands before a mirror, seeing not himself, but glimpses of Rhys Montrose, Love Quinn, and other victims. This visual metaphor confirms that Joe’s past is inextricably linked to his present and future. He hasn’t escaped his demons; he has fully integrated them.
Accepting the Darkness
The most disturbing aspect is Joe’s apparent acceptance of his true nature. He no longer struggles against his impulses; he seems to revel in them. He is confident, powerful, and supported by a woman who knows his secrets. This final scene is a stark departure from previous seasons where Joe displayed at least some level of self-awareness and remorse. Now, he seems to embrace his role as a manipulative and dangerous figure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Below are some of the most common questions surrounding the Season 4 finale of You, answered to provide clarity and deeper understanding.
What was the significance of the mirror scene at the end of the episode?
The mirror scene is crucial because it visually represents Joe’s complete absorption of his dark side. He sees glimpses of his past victims, suggesting he is no longer fighting his murderous impulses but has fully embraced them as part of his identity. It’s a visual confirmation that he hasn’t changed; he’s just better at hiding (or justifying) his true nature.
Why did Kate stay with Joe after learning the truth?
Kate’s decision is open to interpretation. Some believe she is genuinely in love with Joe and believes in his capacity for change. Others suggest she is drawn to his darkness or perhaps sees him as a pawn in her own power plays. Her wealth and influence likely contribute to her feeling secure and capable of managing him. Ultimately, her motivations remain ambiguous. Perhaps she sees something in Joe that reflects a similar ruthlessness within herself.
How does Joe benefit from Kate’s wealth and power?
Kate’s wealth and power provide Joe with unprecedented resources and influence. He can now operate with a level of impunity he never had before. He can afford to cover his tracks, manipulate situations, and access information more easily. Her social connections also offer him protection and a veneer of respectability. It essentially makes him a much more dangerous and effective predator.
Is Rhys Montrose truly dead, or could he return in future seasons?
While Joe seems to have killed the physical manifestation of Rhys Montrose, the more pertinent question is whether Joe has truly purged the psychological Rhys Montrose from within himself. Given the mirror scene, the answer is a resounding no. While the real Rhys is dead, the dark impulses he represented remain very much alive within Joe.
What does Joe’s confession mean for his future legal standing?
Joe’s confession is strategic. He confesses to crimes already attributed to Rhys, making him appear as a victim of manipulation rather than a perpetrator. This allows him to evade prosecution for the more recent murders. Whether this will hold up in the long run remains to be seen, but for now, he has successfully managed to manipulate the narrative to his advantage.
How did Joe manage to get away with everything so easily?
A combination of factors contributed to Joe’s success. He is highly intelligent, manipulative, and resourceful. He is also adept at exploiting the weaknesses and vulnerabilities of others. Furthermore, luck plays a role, as does the fact that he often targets individuals who are already somewhat isolated or vulnerable. Finally, the show itself often suspends disbelief for the sake of plot convenience.
Will Joe ever face true consequences for his actions?
This is a central question that hangs over the entire series. The Season 4 finale suggests that Joe may never truly face justice, at least not in a conventional sense. His acceptance of his dark side, combined with his newfound power and influence, makes him a formidable opponent. Whether karma will eventually catch up with him is a question that future seasons will likely explore.
What are the potential storylines for Season 5?
Season 5 could explore the dynamics of Joe and Kate’s relationship, the challenges of maintaining a façade of normalcy while harboring dark secrets, and the potential consequences of Joe’s actions catching up with him. It could also introduce new characters who challenge Joe’s power or expose his true nature. A reckoning seems inevitable.
How does You Season 4 differ from previous seasons?
Season 4 shifts the focus from Joe relentlessly pursuing and imprisoning his obsessions to a more introspective examination of his own psyche. The “eat the rich” theme and the whodunit mystery add new layers to the narrative. However, the core themes of obsession, manipulation, and violence remain central.
Is Joe truly capable of change?
The Season 4 finale strongly suggests that Joe is incapable of genuine change. While he may express remorse or attempt to rationalize his actions, his fundamental nature remains deeply flawed. He is driven by a compulsion to control and manipulate others, and this compulsion seems inextricably linked to his identity.
What is the overall message of the You series?
You explores the complexities of human nature, the dangers of obsession, and the seductive allure of control. It raises questions about morality, accountability, and the blurred lines between love and madness. The series ultimately presents a cautionary tale about the dark potential that resides within us all.
How does the ending affect the overall viewing experience of the series?
The ending of You Season 4 is deliberately unsettling and ambiguous. It challenges viewers to confront the uncomfortable reality that Joe may never truly be held accountable for his actions. It also leaves the door open for future storylines that could explore the consequences of his choices and the potential for his downfall. It is designed to provoke discussion and leave a lasting impression. The series has moved past exploring Joe’s obsessive romantic pursuits, into a more dangerous exploration of his overall malevolence.