Big Sky Review: Love is a Strange and Dangerous Thing (Season 1 Episode 16)
Big Sky closes its first season with a big finale on Season 1 Episode 16, “Love is a Strange and Dangerous Thing.”
It’s been quite some time since I’ve watched a weekly TV show that ends its season with a big to-be-continued cliffhanger. I have to say, it makes me rather nostalgic. It also ups the thrill factor that has been a mainstay throughout the season, culminating in an action-packed finale episode.
Many storylines are left open-ended while others are wrapped up, so it’s a busy episode and chaotic, but still manages to be balanced and harmonious with its ambiguous conclusion. One is left feeling satisfied as well as excited for more—which surely is the intended effect.
Big Sky succeeds in telling several disparate stories in a symbiotic way where it all feels like one big epic tale.
Big Love
Love can be a strange and dangerous thing for anyone, but it is extremely strange and dangerous where Ronald and Scarlet are concerned.
When we first met Ronald Pergman (Brian Geraghty) at the start of the season, it didn’t seem like romance would be a part of his story. Who could’ve predicted that this creepy dude would find a compatible and equally-creepy consort like Scarlet Leyendecker (Anja Savcic).
These psychotic lovebirds and their bond are no match for the U.S. Marshal or the nefarious syndicate that helped them to escape in the first place. They are able to evade capture by working together and trusting each other.
It’s sweet, right?
Nope. Nothing about this couple is sweet (except for Ronald’s cereals, maybe).
They may not be as glamorous as Bonnie and Clyde or as wild at heart as Sailor and Lula, but they do have a killer couple vibe that’s all their own. And even though Scarlet is a late addition to Big Sky‘s first season, she fits in extremely well with the madness of the show.
Jesus, Take the Wheel
Firstly, they get out of the law’s clutches only to find themselves being taken to the border with new identities but sans kid. Scarlet’s daughter would really be better off without these two nutjobs in her life, but I don’t think she’ll be too lucky.
“We can’t leave her behind. What kind of people do you think we are?” asks Ronald right before attacking the man who works for the syndicate.
It’s not so much going off into the sunset, but they do pay homage to the Thelma and Louise handhold as they drive away. Although, rather than driving over a cliff we are left hanging on one, not knowing what their plans might be and if Cassie (Kylie Bunbury) will be able to catch up to them.
Heart’s “Crazy on You” begins when Ronald strangles their getaway driver, and continues to play over the last minutes of the episode.
It is *chef’s kiss* perfection.
The adrenaline is already pumping from all the action and this song adds a fun, kick-ass rock and roll element. Utter insanity mixed with campy indulgence is pretty much what Big Sky is all about, and it does it really, really well.
Occasionally it can drift into soap opera fodder, but not enough to make it an egregious offense. There is plenty for one to roll one’s eyes at, but, commendably, this aspect has become part of the show’s charm.
An example of this is Ronald using his own blood to write the name of his most treasured victim on the table while being interrogated. The man is prone to frightening theatrics, so even though it might be super extra, it is very Ronald Pergman.
Sickly Sweet
Another song plays an integral part to the story. “Chances Are” by Johnny Mathis is a clue that Ronald gives Mark the Marshal (Omar Metwally). The romantic 50s pop song is made menacing because of its significance to Ronald, and it is even more chilling when Ronald starts to sing it.
Johnny Mathis tunes had already been ruined for me when The X-Files used “Wonderful, Wonderful” on the famously disturbing episode “Home.” It’s worth noting that The X-Files did not get permission to use the Johnny Mathis version due to the episode’s graphic content, and a cover was used instead.
Upbeat, saccharine, or innocent things used in conjunction with sinister plots or characters creates an eerie, skin-crawling kind of effect on the viewer. And with Ronald, Big Sky has employed this tactic admirably. He even quotes pure-at-heart Mr. Rogers.
It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood.
Stray Observations:
- I am pleasantly surprised that the Kleinsasser women are featured more than expected on the finale. It makes me optimistic for them to make future appearances.
- Hooray for Margaret killing Horst!
- Cheyenne’s white lion cupcakes tho.
- I don’t think Mark is very good at his job.
- I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: I do not ship Mark and Cassie. I really hope the show rethinks this pairing it’s trying to set up.
- Rick Legarski has a twin brother?! And Merilee is mentioned, too? This opens up an opportunity to bring both John Carroll Lynch and Brooke Smith back. Fingers and toes crossed.
- This John Milton fellow is a higher-up in the syndicate, so naturally his henchman has his full name conveniently listed in his phone. It’s one of those amusing eye-roll moments, and I applaud Big Sky‘s boldness.
What did you think of this episode of Big Sky? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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Big Sky is now streaming Season 1 and will be returning to ABC in the fall on a new night, Thursdays at 10/9c.
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Erin Allen
Erin is a former script supervisor for film and television. She's an avid fan of middle aged actresses, dark dramas, and irreverent comedies. She loves to read actual books and X-Files fan fiction. Her other passions include pointing out feminist issues, shipping Mulder and Scully, and collecting pop culture mugs.