Ozark just keeps getting better

Ozark is a pretty well-known show; it did well at various awards ceremonies and is generally regarded as a ‘must watch’ on those Top Ten lists. Well, the first part of season four has just been released, and so far doesn’t appear to be getting anywhere near the publicity it deserves.

Side note – if you haven’t yet watched the previous three seasons, or still intend to, maybe stop reading right around here.

The first segment of the fourth season, (which is split into two parts – the second of which being released later this year), picks up immediately after Omar Navarro (Felix Solis) shockingly, and perhaps unjustifiably, (but then again, this is a drug cartel), shot dead Helen Pierce (Janet McTeer) in the season three finale, leaving Marty and Wendy Byrde (played by Jason Bateman and Laura Linney, respectively) as direct reports to the cartel boss.

Navarro has a big task for the pair as he wants them to strike a deal with the FBI to provide him with free access to the US if he becomes a resource, without any arrest. His nephew Javi (Alfonso Herrera), on the other hand, is becoming a bigger threat that Marty and Wendy are yet to comprehend.

In the meantime, the Snells are gearing up to get back into the business of smuggling heroin and Marty’s former aide, Ruth (Julia Garner) has now joined Darlene (Lisa Emery) and Wyatt (Charlie Tahan) in this endeavour. Ruth is still reeling from her former love-interest Ben’s death and holds Wendy responsible for it.

Heavy, action-packed story, sure, but then again, aren’t all good shows…mostly. After three seasons, the show has become steeped in quality storylines and deep, interesting characters, and as intense as the story may seem, it’s portrayed in such a way that it’s digestible, and I’m able to follow most of the on-screen action, although, admittedly, I did have to watch the occasional part twice.

The highlight of this season, and indeed the entire show, has to be the terrific acting throughout. For the past few seasons, particularly the third, Laura Linney has been the standout, boasting some of the best acting I’ve ever seen on television. However, more recently, Julia Garner might have just slipped into this position. Her character was once a crazed, emotionless wildcard, and Garner, with the help of the writers, has transitioned the character to a complete, passionate, fully realized human being. Her acting is absolutely phenomenal, and many other stars of her industry could take some notes.

This doesn’t take away from the phenomenalism of the rest of the ensemble cast, though, and if Ozark is going to be remembered for anything, it should be the extraordinary performances on exhibition throughout, along with the pioneering storylines.

Overall, Ozark: Season Four: Part One is a marvellous continuation of the already remarkable show, and I’m very excited to see what takes place in the upcoming Part Two.

Ozark is currently streaming on Netflix.

By Jack Baxter