Bad Sisters Recap: We Need to Talk About Ian

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I’ve been following this series like a hound on a scent, and let me tell you, as a seasoned detective with more than a few gray hairs to show for it, I’ve seen my fair share of twists and turns. But the latest episode of “The Morning Show” had me scratching my head more than a cat in a bag of yarn.

The tide sure does change quickly, huh? Just last week, I was waxing on about how we should maybe “keep an eye” on Ian, and now we’re dealing with a suspiciously slick man without so much as a LinkedIn to prove his identity. His vibes are absolutely rancid in this episode with almost every scene giving us a reason not to trust him. In fact, “Who by Water” goes so hard on Ian being A Bad Guy that I’m almost tempted to call its bluff and say it’s all a ruse. Then again … agh, who knows!

The extent to which “Bad Sisters” successfully solves this mystery remains uncertain until the end of the series, but so far, it has done an excellent job at keeping me on edge, just as the Garveys are. As in the previous season, it appears that we can only uncover the truth after sifting through a massive amount of manipulation or gaslighting. Shall we delve into it all together?

To begin with, in the “Suspicious Behavior of Ian” folder, we have Ian’s response to the growing possibility of Angelica’s fate. Despite disagreement among the sisters about involving the police, whether it was an accident or not, Ian is firm that they should not. He orders Bibi, Ursula, and Becka to head back to the marina and clean the boat thoroughly, as they seem to be chronically inept at criminal activities. While they are busy cleaning, Ian manages to gain entry into someone’s home to erase any traces of their presence or Angelica’s from a strategically placed security camera.

Initially, the chatty woman hesitates to let him enter, expressing doubts due to her suspicion that “sometimes, serial killers can be quite attractive.” However, Ian responds with a mysterious grin and counters, “Am I giving off a serial killer vibe?” Frankly, I’m not sure, Ian. Are you? Or are you merely playing a part? I’m utterly perplexed!

Everything about Ian seems utterly authentic, yet unsettlingly so. He’s undeniably skilled in the craft of persuasion. Moreover, that instance coupled with his enigmatic gaze following Bibi’s “Who are you?” question was what ultimately triggered my realization that Owen McDonnell portrayed Sandra Oh’s seemingly perfect husband on Killing Eve. Remarkably, it took me this long to recognize his talent for depicting charming characters who may conceal hidden depths.

A new piece of information has surfaced under the label “Possible Deception by Ian” since Houlihan is still unable to contact the friend Ian claimed he was staying with following his altercation with Grace. Given that his alibi hasn’t been verified yet, her skepticism seems warranted. Meanwhile, in Bibi’s world, the mystery surrounding Ian deepens as she struggles to find more information about him online. This show is known for its meticulous plotlines, but this apparent oversight has left me puzzled. I can’t help but wonder: Did no one investigate this man before Grace married him? If my sister were a recent victim of domestic abuse preparing to marry someone with few connections, the first step I would take would be to research him thoroughly – perhaps even going as far as purchasing a background check! For a show that emphasizes these sisters’ relentless efforts to protect one another, this lack of due diligence doesn’t make sense, and it’s becoming increasingly difficult for me to overlook it as we approach the season finale.

A significant aspect of Ian’s character is his intense response when Roger approaches Eva to inquire if she has seen Angelica. Despite the commotion he caused earlier by accosting Angelica at her church, he continues to act aggressively towards Roger as well. Even amidst her intricate emotions towards Ian, Eva isn’t particularly fond of his insensitivity. “Why did you have to be so harsh with him? I know what it feels like to lose a sister without saying goodbye,” Eva explains, and her statement seems quite reasonable — that is, until Ian’s reaction prompts an apology from her. Even though Ian might not be a serial killer, I find his behavior completely unacceptable, especially when he tells Eva that she shouldn’t feel guilty about dating him after being “in a relationship with the couch and the remote control for some time now.” Though Eva eventually gives in to her feelings and sleeps with him later in the episode, at this moment, she merely looks back in hurt surprise. That isn’t a flirty rejection; it’s just plain rude.

It’s clear I comprehend the intensity of Eva’s sisters’ response when she confessed the truth, even though Bibi’s words might seem quite severe. (“It’s barely been a day since Grace was laid to rest, and you’re already thinking about him… Whatever emotions you have for him, you need to suppress them as deeply as you buried your sister.”) I believe it’s crucial to consider their bond within the complex circumstances that bind them. Often, people who are widowed or close to the deceased find solace in each other after a loss due to shared memories and mutual love for the person they all cherished, making it easier for them to develop strong feelings for one another.

That all being said, though, while I didn’t hate the idea of Eva and Ian getting together before, y’know what? I sure do now!

In the story “Who by Water,” Ian seems overly eager. When Eva voices her mixed feelings towards him, he responds with a kiss instead of addressing her genuine concerns. His overzealousness towards being with Eva leads me to question whether he truly comprehends or simply ignores her worries about the rapid pace of their relationship. However, when the plot introduces him planning a “contingency plan” at the bank for Eva in case she goes to prison, it’s clear that we should be concerned about what his intentions might be.

Regarding this matter, Houlihan and I share a sense of understanding now. Despite her suspicion that the Garvey sisters are up to something suspicious, she finds herself even more wary of Ian due to his friendly demeanor, captivating smile, and cozy sweaters. “There’s something about him,” she tells Loftus, her instincts sounding an alarm loud and clear. Unfortunately, Loftus is too preoccupied with his own woes to consider the complexity of this case further. After reconsidering his decision to use Grace’s escape funds for his custody battle (a wise choice), he inappropriately submits it as evidence (a poor move). He then informs Houlihan that she must have overlooked it during her search of the car. However, Houlihan prides herself on being meticulous. “You manipulated evidence,” she can’t help but suspect, at which point Loftus warns her to back off or face consequences. In a world where police are often corrupt, this is just another day.

In the final two episodes of the current season – isn’t it hard to believe we’re at this point already? – things could unfold in various ways. It’s possible that Ian is the cunning mastermind like in ‘Gone Girl’, and he needs to be apprehended. Alternatively, Loftus might be correct (laugh out loud) that it’s as straightforward as “Grace Reilly killed her husband and fled, crashing her car.” I can’t rule out the idea that Angelica will miraculously resurface in the ocean, signal a fisherman, and then reappear in church to take Communion. As always, the only way the Garveys will make it through is by trusting and being truthful with each other, even as the strain becomes increasingly difficult to manage.

Loose Ends

In this case, I chose to express your sentence in a manner that is both natural and easy to comprehend:

Additionally, has Ursula’s pill addiction continued or not? Given all the other events unfolding, it seems unusual to abandon such a significant plot point so abruptly after her arrest.

Following Becka’s close call with miscarriage, it’s implicit that she plans to keep the baby. Unfortunately, Eva’s distress causes her to reveal the news to Joe before Becka could tell him herself, which isn’t an ideal beginning for the exciting adventure of motherhood. Oh well.

A fresh piece of lore from Houlihan has been revealed, as she compared her “biological father” to Grace’s turtle, describing him as “bald, cranky, and overly amorous.

Earning extra points for authentic prop usage, such as text conversations from our everyday chats, which is seldom seen on television screens. (Even though it’s connected to Apple, the genuine feel of it makes a difference.)

It’s been my recurring concern to express the desire for greater complexity in Bibi’s narrative, so let’s delve into it once more. Specifically, I wonder about Nora’s current state and their marriage overall. How is their relationship really unfolding? Are there any unique interactions between Nora and Bibi’s sisters? Does Bibi share significant details with Nora at all? These are just a few questions that come to mind.

I have a good relationship with my brother-in-law, and the events of the past day have been far more unusual.

• “Gotcha.”

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2024-12-11 14:55