Episode seven, "Return," is a deeply personal installment for Kendall, as the Roy family returns to England to visit Logan's estranged brother, Ewan. This episode shifts the focus away from corporate warfare and toward the intimate, strained relationships within the Roy family. Kendall, still grappling with the emotional toll of his father's manipulation, finds himself torn between his desire for redemption and his loyalty to Logan. The family's visit to Ewan's sprawling estate in the English countryside is filled with tension, as Ewan, played brilliantly by James Cromwell, represents a moral counterpoint to Logan's ruthlessness.
The dynamic between Logan and Ewan is one of the highlights of the episode. Their conversations are laced with decades of unresolved resentment and philosophical differences about wealth and power. Ewan's disdain for Logan's empire is palpable, and the scenes between the two brothers are filled with biting dialogue and unspoken bitterness. Brian Cox delivers one of his best performances of the season, as Logan's icy exterior cracks ever so slightly in the presence of his older brother. The episode masterfully explores themes of family loyalty, guilt, and the price of success.
Kendall's internal struggle comes to a head in this episode as he seeks comfort in his past relationships. His emotional reunion with his mother is a standout moment, as it offers a rare glimpse into the vulnerability he has worked so hard to suppress. The episode's direction captures this emotional intensity, with close-ups emphasizing the discomfort and unease of each interaction. The pacing is slower compared to previous episodes, allowing for deeper character exploration. Despite the lack of corporate scheming, "Return" is a crucial episode for understanding the psychological complexity of the Roy family, particularly Kendall's journey toward self-destruction.
