The final episode of What We Do in the Shadows Season 4, “Sunrise, Sunset,” masterfully reframes the entire season’s arc, revealing that Baby Colin Robinson’s accelerated and bizarre growth wasn’t a tale of unchecked power or vampiric succession, but a cleverly disguised exploration of found family and the enduring bonds of friendship, tested and ultimately strengthened by the unexpected. While Colin’s rapid ageing dominated the narrative, the episode pivots to emphasize the sacrifices and ultimately joyous reunion orchestrated by his housemates, underlining the series’ core theme: even immortal beings need connection.
The Shocking Twist: Colin’s Transformation and a Renewed Purpose
The episode opens with the culmination of Colin’s rapid growth, reaching a point where he is an adult (played once again by Mark Proksch) ready to leave the nest. This departure is initially framed as tragic, particularly for Nadja, who has invested heavily in raising him, and Guillermo, who feels a paternal connection. However, the “tragedy” is quickly deconstructed. It’s revealed that the point of Colin’s rapid growth was to essentially reset his life and discover his true purpose, which turns out to be not simply draining energy from others but using his unique abilities to help others.
This newfound purpose, delivered with Colin’s trademark deadpan, is to become an energy counselor, assisting people with their boredom and frustrations by… well, being Colin Robinson. This seemingly mundane occupation, within the absurd world of What We Do in the Shadows, is deeply profound. It suggests that even the most seemingly draining and tedious experiences can hold value and purpose, and that connection, even in its most awkward form, can be a powerful force for good.
The episode also addresses the lingering tensions between Nandor and Guillermo. Nandor’s constant whims and demands have strained their relationship, and Guillermo’s simmering resentment finally boils over. This culminates in Guillermo’s use of Derek’s blood to become a vampire, a secret he initially keeps from Nandor.
The Underlying Message: Friendship as a Foundation
The genius of the episode lies in its ability to weave seemingly disparate storylines—Colin’s rebirth, Nadja’s business struggles, Nandor’s capricious nature, and Guillermo’s yearning for something more—into a cohesive narrative about the enduring power of found family. Each character’s journey highlights the challenges of maintaining relationships, especially when complicated by immortality, supernatural powers, and inherent selfishness. However, the episode ultimately demonstrates that loyalty and genuine affection can overcome even the most significant obstacles.
The poignant scenes of the group supporting Colin in his new venture, even though they don’t fully understand it, underscore this theme. Similarly, Nandor’s eventual (and somewhat selfish) recognition of Guillermo’s loyalty, even as he struggles to express it, represents a significant moment of growth for his character. The underlying message is clear: these are fundamentally decent (albeit deeply flawed) beings who, despite their inherent egotism and supernatural tendencies, genuinely care for one another.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into the Shadows
Here are some frequently asked questions about What We Do in the Shadows Season 4 finale, providing further insight and context:
1. Was Colin Robinson really “dead”?
No. Colin Robinson’s death was more of a metamorphosis than a true ending. He was essentially reborn in a new form, retaining his memories and personality (albeit slightly altered). This cyclical nature aligns with his being an energy vampire, constantly renewing his power source.
2. Why did Colin Robinson grow up so fast?
The exact reason for Colin’s rapid growth isn’t explicitly stated, but it’s implied that it’s a natural part of his energy vampire lifecycle. It seems to be a mechanism for him to shed his old skin, so to speak, and rediscover his purpose. The accelerated timeframe allowed the writers to explore themes of childhood, adolescence, and adulthood within a compressed and comedic framework.
3. What is the significance of Colin Robinson becoming an energy counselor?
Colin’s new profession is a brilliant subversion of his original role. Instead of passively draining energy, he actively seeks out opportunities to alleviate boredom and frustration. This suggests a maturation in his understanding of his powers and a desire to use them for a more positive purpose, albeit in his own, unconventional way. It also satirizes the self-help industry and the often-absurd nature of modern advice.
4. Why did Guillermo become a vampire?
Guillermo’s decision to become a vampire stems from a deep-seated desire for agency and a frustration with his subservient role. He feels undervalued and overlooked by Nandor, and becoming a vampire represents a way for him to finally claim his own power and independence. However, his decision is also driven by a desire for immortality and the opportunity to remain with his found family forever.
5. Will Nandor accept Guillermo as a vampire?
This remains one of the biggest questions heading into Season 5. While Nandor initially seems oblivious to Guillermo’s transformation, it’s almost certain that he will eventually discover the truth. Whether he accepts Guillermo or sees him as a betrayal will likely be a major plot point in the upcoming season. Expect dramatic irony and significant comedic fallout.
6. What will happen to Nadja’s vampire nightclub?
Nadja’s nightclub, while initially successful, faces numerous challenges, including competition and internal squabbles. Whether the club will survive beyond Season 4 is uncertain. It served primarily as a platform for Nadja’s character development and a source of comedic absurdity. It may be restructured or abandoned altogether in future seasons.
7. Was the Djinn really gone for good?
While Nandor technically wished the Djinn away at the end of Season 4, it’s highly likely that he will reappear in future seasons. The Djinn’s character, played with hilarious self-awareness by Arian Moayed, is too valuable to be permanently discarded. Expect him to return, perhaps with a renewed sense of vengeance or a newfound appreciation for bureaucracy.
8. What is the future of Nandor and Marwa’s relationship?
Nandor’s relationship with Marwa, whose personality is entirely dependent on his wishes, is inherently problematic. While he seemingly grows fond of her, the relationship lacks genuine substance. It’s likely that their dynamic will continue to be explored and deconstructed in future seasons, highlighting the ethical complexities of using supernatural powers to manipulate others.
9. What is the significance of the recurring “Sunrise, Sunset” motif?
The episode title, “Sunrise, Sunset,” directly references the song from Fiddler on the Roof, which explores themes of generational change and the passage of time. This reinforces the season’s overarching theme of growth and transformation, particularly in relation to Colin Robinson’s rebirth and the evolving relationships between the housemates.
10. How does Season 4 build on the established mythology of What We Do in the Shadows?
Season 4 expands the mythology of What We Do in the Shadows by exploring the nuances of energy vampire lifecycles, introducing new supernatural creatures (like the Sire), and delving deeper into the complexities of vampire society. It also reinforces the idea that even immortal beings are subject to change and growth, albeit in their own unique and often bizarre ways.
11. What are the major unresolved plot points heading into Season 5?
Several key plot points remain unresolved, including: Guillermo’s transformation into a vampire, Nandor’s reaction to it, the future of Nadja’s nightclub, and the potential return of the Djinn. These dangling threads provide ample fodder for future storylines and comedic opportunities.
12. What is the ultimate message of What We Do in the Shadows?
At its core, What We Do in the Shadows is a comedy about found family and the importance of human (or, rather, supernatural) connection. Despite their flaws and eccentricities, the characters genuinely care for one another, and their relationships provide a source of both conflict and comfort. The series ultimately suggests that even in a world of immortal beings and supernatural powers, the need for belonging and connection remains a fundamental aspect of existence. The enduring bonds forged in darkness, fueled by friendship and loyalty, not just blood, are what truly define this darkly hilarious and surprisingly heartwarming story.