Somebody to Love

"Somebody to Love," the tenth and final episode of Fargo's third season, directed by Keith Gordon and written by Noah Hawley, delivers a complex and emotionally charged conclusion to a season steeped in themes of truth, identity, and moral ambiguity. The episode masterfully balances suspenseful action, character resolution, and philosophical reflection, while maintaining the series' trademark blend of dark humor and existential inquiry.

The episode opens with Gloria Burgle (Carrie Coon) tendering her resignation from the police force, feeling overwhelmed by the systemic failures and personal losses she has endured. However, just as she steps away, an IRS agent calls with new evidence, pulling her back into the investigation of the Stussy family's criminal entanglements. This moment underscores Gloria's role as the moral compass of the season, embodying perseverance and integrity amid chaos. Coon's nuanced performance captures Gloria's weariness and determination, grounding the narrative's emotional core.

Meanwhile, Emmit Stussy (Ewan McGregor) is at his lowest point, having lost his company to V. M. Varga's (David Thewlis) manipulations and grappling with the guilt over his brother Ray's death. In a poignant scene, Emmit discards the final Sisyphus stamp-the symbol of the feud that destroyed his family-signifying a tentative desire for redemption. McGregor's dual portrayal of Emmit's vulnerability and desperation is a highlight, conveying the tragic consequences of pride and misjudgment.

The episode's tension escalates as Nikki Swango (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) confronts Emmit with a shotgun, demanding justice for Ray. Their confrontation is charged with emotional complexity, blending anger, betrayal, and a faint hope for understanding. The arrival of a police officer interrupts the standoff, leading to a tragic shootout in which both Nikki and the officer die. This sudden and brutal climax underscores the season's meditation on fate and the unpredictability of violence. Winstead's performance conveys Nikki's fierce resolve and vulnerability, making her demise profoundly affecting.

Parallel to these events, Mr. Wrench (Russell Harvard) avenges Nikki by killing Varga's henchman Meemo, a moment of poetic justice that ties back to the series' earlier seasons and expands its mythos. This act of retribution adds a layer of narrative closure and thematic resonance regarding loyalty and vengeance.

Visually, the episode employs a muted color palette and stark cinematography by Dana Gonzales, capturing the cold Minnesota winter and the claustrophobic interiors with atmospheric precision. The editing by Regis Kimble maintains a taut pace, balancing moments of high tension with quieter, reflective scenes. Jeff Russo's haunting score weaves through the narrative, enhancing its emotional and thematic depth.

Thematically, "Somebody to Love" grapples with the elusive nature of truth, the consequences of choices, and the possibility of redemption. The episode's ambiguous ending-Gloria watching a school bus with her son, reflecting on the innocence of childhood-offers a poignant counterpoint to the season's darkness, suggesting hope amid uncertainty. The final scene between Gloria and Varga, a tense and unresolved confrontation, encapsulates the ongoing struggle between order and chaos, truth and deception.

Critically, the episode was widely praised for its strong performances, especially from McGregor, Coon, and Winstead, as well as its intelligent writing and effective pacing. Reviewers highlighted the finale's ability to provide satisfying character arcs while maintaining thematic complexity and narrative ambiguity. Some critiques focused on certain plot conveniences and the abruptness of the shootout, but these were generally outweighed by the episode's emotional impact and philosophical richness.

"Somebody to Love" is a compelling and thought-provoking finale that encapsulates Fargo's third season with emotional depth, narrative sophistication, and existential inquiry. Through layered performances, meticulous direction, and evocative storytelling, it immerses viewers in a world where truth is multifaceted, justice is elusive, and human frailty shapes destiny. The episode challenges audiences to reflect on the nature of morality, the cost of ambition, and the enduring hope for connection, solidifying Fargo's reputation as a distinctive and intellectually engaging television drama.

I have enjoyed all 3 seasons of Fargo. The one thing I love about this series is the characters are so interesting. Without giving any spoilers, I will just say that I was satisfied that most of the characters had their stories resolved by the end of episode 10. Ewan McGregor was just great in the dual roll of the Stussy brothers. 10 episodes was just right to tell the story and I look forward to another season with another set of great characters.

I am a huge fan of this series and this was another great season. I would definitely rank it above the second season. Awesome characters, dark humor and twists throughout!

I'm somewhat amused by the one star reviews of, especially LaLaLandsucks who slags off every season of Fargo. I mean if you didn't like series one then why would you watch series two let alone series three? After checking all La's reviews it is quite obvious he/she hasn't actually watched any of them and is just a serial slagger. The only film he/she appears to like, giving a top review to 'Transformers, The Last Knight', a total pile of rubbish, as the greatest movie ever made, are we expected to take this review seriously? So mdfaraone wasted 10 weeks of his/her life, how come? I mean if you didn't like it after 2 or maybe 3 episodes why carry on other than to leave this bad review? Anyway I enjoyed all three series of Fargo, albeit the first was undoubtedly the best Ewen McGregor was excellent and as for the talented David Thewlis he completely stole the show. In fact there wasn't one bad performance from any of the actors. I hope there is another series and the dissenters don't bother this time.

So far in the show, I have never been deceived - except maybe the very ending of season 2, but that's only a matter of personal taste - and this third one is again jaw dropping in terms of story telling, aesthetics, the main strength of this show and many TV series in general. You have things here that you can't expect in large screen features. I love the characters, situations, where there is offbeat, weird elements without being comedy in the same time. This series is purely unique so far, and in the total spirit of the 1996 FARGO movie. Terrific sub characters, such as this rural female cop seeking to get pregnant and who speaks like a red neck truck driver.... Unique !!!!