Finale of The Night Manager sets the stage for future conflict
In a dramatic twist, the finale of the second series of The Night Manager leaves its protagonist, Pine, in peril as antagonist Roper emerges victorious, reports BritPanorama.
The concluding episode significantly escalated the tension, showcasing a flurry of betrayals among characters. Pine, played by Tom Hiddleston, strives to thwart Roper’s plans to supply the Colombian rebel army with British weapons, a move that would exacerbate regional violence and serve Roper’s personal gains.
Roper’s son, Teddy, portrayed by Diego Calva, ultimately turns against his father, misled by Pine into believing Roper intends to abandon him for a new life in Britain. Meanwhile, Roxana (Camila Morrone) betrays Pine after realizing her role in his plans, reflecting a chaotic landscape of shifting allegiances.
This episode adeptly counters earlier criticisms of character depth, particularly for Morrone’s role, which ends up being more complex than that of a typical “Bond Girl”. Instead, the narrative emphasizes agency, as she navigates her own survival amidst unfolding chaos.
However, the plot takes a crucial turn when Roper reveals his cunning strategy—dispatching two planes rather than one to deliver weapons to the rebels, showcasing his tactical superiority just as Pine believes he has gained the upper hand. The subsequent chaos, including the revelation of a red rose as a signal of Roper’s machinations, emphasizes the series’ focus on unexpected twists.
As the storyline unfolds, Pine’s efforts culminate in tragedy, with Roper killing Teddy, while Pine narrowly escapes, leaving his fate uncertain in the Colombian jungle. This closing scene contrasts sharply with Roper’s triumphant image, as he retrieves his son from boarding school, solidifying his narrative of control.
The finale did not shy away from bleak conclusions, with Angela Burr, portrayed by Olivia Colman, also meeting a tragic end, further amplifying the sense of loss within the story’s resolution. Yet, this bleakness potentially prepares the ground for further developments in a prospective third series, as Pine’s survival remains a focal point of intrigue.
Overall, the finale’s unexpected outcomes may revive interest in the series, despite earlier uneven reception. As viewers await the next installment, the complex interplay of loyalty and betrayal will likely remain key themes, promising a continuation of Pine and Roper’s fraught rivalry.
The Night Manager is streaming on BBC iPlayer
