Ep 4 sustains the momentum with confidence and composure. The political stakes ratchet upward, propelled by a development that furrows both brows and nerves.
Suranne Jones shines brightest here; her Abigail Dalton navigates chaos with a wry, weary strength. She's both a stateswoman and a spouse, and Jones lets the emotional duality breathe without overwriting.
Julie Delpy's Vivienne Toussaint remains a cool constant: her shifts in posture and tone telegraph more than words do, adding rich subtext. The supporting ensemble clicks better this hour, too: each character lands with specificity, making the corridors of power feel populated, not perfunctory.
Visually, the episode sharpens. Directors continue to favor tight angles, holding back exposition and focusing on reaction. Jeff Russo's score underscores the tension without elbowing its way into every beat... subtle and effective.
While a couple of plot pivots still lean toward dramatic convenience, they feel aligned with the show's rhythm, not out-of-step stunts.
In short, Ep 4 delivers what Ep 3 promised: smart, emotional stakes served in a lean, propulsive package. A solid notch above basic thriller fare.