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 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 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.

Well, Fargo fans...some of you seem a bit disappointed. Let's get a few facts straight to begin. This show IS an anthology. These events depicted here are NOT the same as the first two seasons (though they are seemingly connected in some way). At the request of the people who enjoy great television, here you go. Out of respect for fans who haven't seen this episode, I will not spoil anything.

Where to start. If you think of this season on it's own, yes it's a good season of TV. Nothing special, nothing mind-blowing, but still good. When you think back to the very first time you watched the first episode of the first season of "Fargo", what exactly comes to mind? I will let you think about that on your own. Now, move ahead to season 2, a bit more hardcore and thrilling and added the supernatural element, which was great.

And then there is this season. Probably the most "Fargo-esque" season so far when compared to the original movie. I believe people are putting too much emphasis on things that are not necessary to emphasize. And people forget that Joel and Ethan Coen are in fact executive producers of this show. Noah Hawley may come up with the ideas, but they still pull some of the strings. And if you ask me, this episode absolutely crushed it out of the park in terms of doing great justice to the original movie by the Coen Brothers as well as summing up the first three seasons as a whole.

Again, on the surface, it is nothing spectacular, but look a little deeper and it is very good. There is a scene that builds up so intensely you will be on the edge of your seat waiting...and waiting...and waiting. Just when you think you know what is going to happen next, think again..and again...and again..and well...you know by now. Also, the music is amazing (one scene in particular will give you the chills just from the music...if you are in fact a true "Fargo" fan). The cinematography is equally sublime. Pay very close attention to the subtle yet encapsulating dialogue as well (especially near the end of the episode).

I believe this season stands out on its own for many reasons. Starts off with a very similar sequence as to that of the beginning of the original movie and gets into a petty sibling rivalry that sets off a chain of random, violent, and mysterious events. Sometimes we know more than certain characters do, sometimes they know more than us, sometimes none of them know anything we know. How can you not love this if you love the movie? It gets into exactly what the entire purpose of the original movie was and the foundation of which the Coen's are famous for in their work. What is that? Morality. Think about some of their movies. Notice how there is always a lesson to be learned, but we just don't know exactly what it is? You know why? Because that is life. Plain, random, and full of stupid decisions. Nobody is perfect.

Overall, the season does have it's flaws, yes. But the incredible cast makes up for these flaws immensely. Seriously, at least 5 of them are Emmy worthy. I really didn't see a problem with McGregor's accent...for a Scottish actor, I think he did a great job and played dual roles (which had to be shot twice..just a fun fact). Carrie Coon is underused, but is really the heart and soul of the show. Mary Elizabeth Windstead seems to play her role effortlessly. Michael Stuhlbarg, who I had not heard about before this series, is amazing. And, well...David Thewlis is pretty damn incredible and of any of them, deserves that Emmy.

See ya again in a few years Fargo! (Maybe)

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.