Big Sky: Deadly Trails Season 3 Episode 9 Review: Where There’s Smoke There’s Fire

On Big Sky: Deadly Trails Season 3 Episode 9, “Where There’s Smoke There’s Fire,” the procedural aspect is forced while the main storyline finally gains some traction. 

But is it too late? It feels like there is a lot of ground to cover, a lot to make up for, and a lot to live up to. There are signs that the season can overcome this, but also indication that the exciting drama Big Sky is known for will continue to be sporadic.

I understand the need for the procedural element, however, the show is not weaving it in very seamlessly. Nor has it in the past, now that I come to think of it. But, the main plot is not usually paced as slow as this one on Big Sky: Deadly Trails.

Lack of story might be a contributing factor as well. Now that Sunny has told Cormac, Avery has cracked the crypto code, and Paige has resurfaced, things should be escalating, but I’m not so sure.

Although, the preview for the next episode, the Winter finale, looks pretty eventful. I’m hoping for no procedural B-story to distract from it.

Walter makes for an interesting villain, though it is hard to follow Brian Geraghty’s Ronald Pergman as a Big Sky baddie. Sunny’s involvement in everything is curious. Is it all really just because of a mother’s love for her child? 

I would absolutely love to see Reba McEntire take Sunny to an extreme. It seems to be bubbling just under the surface. 

There are many developments that are going in the right direction. Bringing Emily into the Dewell & Hoyt offices is a smart move. She offers a unique perspective on the case and it’s already paying off.

More strange behavior from Buck reminds us that he didn’t just marry into Sunny’s secretive past, but is a participant to watch closely. He is, perhaps, a bigger mystery than Walter.

Bits that are not working include Carla and Avery and their rocky relationship. It’s more intriguing that Avery is now in possession of the money that so many are after. I could not care less if the two reconcile or separate, and I hope Beau isn’t still holding a torch for his ex.

It just sounds boring, to be honest.

The story is pushing Beau’s past into the present. That is the connection made from the smokejumper looting ring side plot. And that connection is tenuous at best—as superfluous as the procedural part of this episode. 

Big Sky: Deadly Trails Season 3 Episode 9, “Where There’s Smoke There’s Fire,” is definitely building the tension, but, sadly, that is the extent of its purpose. 

What did you think of this episode of Big Sky: Deadly Trails? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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Big Sky: Deadly Trails airs Wednesdays at 10/9c on ABC.

Featured Image: ABC/Michael Moriatis

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