Bad Sisters Recap: End of the Road

As a seasoned fan of Sharon Horgan’s work and someone who has grown fond of the Garveys’ chaotic lives, I must say that this latest episode was a rollercoaster ride of emotions. The sudden departure of Grace from our screens left me stunned, much like how Anne-Marie Duff’s performance dropped an octave in her wretched panic scenes. Her acting was absolutely chilling, in the most pristine way possible (and not just because she was playing a character who was burying her husband).


In the wake of JP’s passing, Grace had almost regained a semblance of normalcy in her life, but one small pull on a frayed thread sent her spiraling back into chaos. Following Ian’s disappearance, her words to her sisters, the guards, Angelica, and even her daughter became increasingly insincere. It was only natural that Grace would eventually crumble under the weight of it all, but I still let out an audible gasp at the shocking revelation in the final moments of the episode.

(This is a recap so obviously there are spoilers ahead, but really, truly, SPOILERS AHEAD.)

Starting from the events that unfolded the night Grace confessed to Ian about JP’s death, being discovered dishonest with the authorities, and struggling to inform her sisters about the situation, Grace decides to cut all ties by leaving town quickly, taking money and making a frantic call to Eva for assistance. However, she accidentally loses an earring in the car, which causes her to lose control and veer off the road. The final image we see is of Grace’s wrecked vehicle as Eva and Blanaid weep.

The tragic conclusion for this character, who’s already endured so much hardship and enjoyed a fleeting moment of domestic peace, is heart-wrenching. Anne-Marie Duff delivers a remarkable performance as Grace, and while the shock of the accident left me momentarily stunned, I was immediately disappointed that her role in this series seems to be concluding (I’m hoping for some flashback scenes later). This turn of events represents a significant shift for “Bad Sisters,” but one that promises an entirely new dynamic for season 2. After dedicating their lives to protecting each other, one of the Garveys is gone forever – another senseless casualty, like their parents, claimed by a devastating car crash.

With Grace’s demise, her siblings are left grappling with the mysteries surrounding her relationship with Ian. As Bibi had already hinted before Ursula found bloodstained garments in the washer, she began to harbor unsettling thoughts about her sister. The fact that Grace remained tight-lipped about Ian’s whereabouts, the presence of his belongings at the house (or hidden in the bathroom), and the bandage on her hand soaked in blood left everyone puzzled.

The issue is compounded when the police finally start performing their duties, albeit belatedly. It’s Houlihan (played by Thaddea Graham, a valuable asset) who diligently uncovers the discrepancies in Grace’s narratives, regardless of whether her superiors are willing to acknowledge her efforts. Unfortunately, the top boss has already essentially branded her as a ‘DEI hire,’ a label that instantly discredits her judgement in my eyes. Moreover, Detective Loftus was humiliated for his sloppy work and one should never underestimate the resolve of someone mortified by their own ineptitude.

In another setting, Fiona Shaw’s character, Angelica, is increasingly becoming a troublesome presence. Equipped with the information Roger shared about Grace’s role in JP’s demise, she spends this episode attempting to impose her perspective and supposed assistance where it isn’t wanted. She disrupts Grace during prayer at church and at Blanaid’s field-hockey match, offering guidance under the guise of promoting “peace or perhaps penance.” However, her sanctimonious approach reveals her true intention: to find more reasons to criticize others. Eventually, Grace reaches her breaking point and publicly reprimands Angelica for suffocating her.

In summary, Angelica, momentarily chastened, heads to the bathroom where Nora, Bibi’s wife, is washing her hands. Here, Angelica shares a piece of information she overheard at Grace’s wedding while snooping around Eva’s house: Bibi, struggling with feeling like Ruben’s mother due to difficulties conceiving a child genetically linked to them, is anxious about having another child. This revelation is distressing for Nora, serving as a harsh truth and a reminder of their unique position within the Garvey family, being the only non-white members. I had hoped for a more substantial storyline for Bibi this season, but not in this manner! Let my lesbian characters enjoy their shakshouka in peace!

Regarding Angelica’s role, it appears manipulative, suggestive of JP’s interference, albeit in a more self-punishing Catholic manner. Whatever she spoke to Grace about during their last conversation must have caused immense distress, leading us to believe that the Garveys will likely investigate her soon.

Loose Ends

In the realm of cinema, I can’t help but express my deep regret for not seeing more of Anne-Marie Duff’s exceptional talent. Performance #4353124, where she masterfully portrayed her character’s anguished panic in response to her sisters’ probing questions, was nothing short of riveting. Her voice, which dropped an octave as if she were trying to escape the intensity of her own emotions, sent shivers down my spine. It was a chill that was both unsettling and pure, a testament to her skill as an actress.

It seems that Ursula may be struggling with a habit related to prescription drugs, similar to the character Nurse Jackie – this certainly isn’t a positive development.

In an amusing twist of fate, Loftus and Ursula initially crossed paths at a speed dating event, only to encounter each other again potentially at a crime scene. This could be likened to bumping into someone you met at a club during daytime hours and wondering if they still look good. (Rest assured, they do! Although it might lead to some chaos, I’m all for the narrative, so keep going!)

It’s hilarious when Loftus shares that his golf nickname “Adolf” stands for “two shots in a bunker” – one of the funniest things I’ve heard recently. Thanks again, Sharon Horgan, for consistently providing such humor, though it might be considered inappropriate by some.

• Angelica having a mug that says “S+ressed & Blessed” is some excellent attention to props detail.

In a less than admirable thought I must share, there was a certain allure to the chain cilice on Angelica’s thigh. My apologies, forgive me, Father, for I acknowledge my transgression, and so on.

I dislike the noises coming from Grace’s shovel in her new planter box, and I sincerely hope I’m wrong about my suspicion that Ian might be hidden inside, but…

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2024-11-13 20:54