In "The Last Rostov," the third episode of A Gentleman in Moscow's first season, we are presented with a harrowing image of Count Alexander Rostov (Ewan McGregor) on the brink of despair, contemplating suicide on the hotel roof. This dramatic opening scene sets the tone for an episode that delves into the depths of Rostov's isolation and his struggle to find meaning in a world that is rapidly changing and leaving him behind.
The episode takes us back in time by a month, revealing the events that led Rostov to such a dire moment. We witness Rostov's daily life on the roof, where he shares honey with Abram (Dermot Crowley), the hotel's caretaker. The honey, reminiscent of Rostov's family estate, serves as a poignant connection to his past and a symbol of the sweetness he once knew. However, this tranquility is shattered by the distant sound of explosions, a stark reminder of the revolution's ongoing impact on the city and Rostov's life.
The news of Lenin's death and the ensuing power struggle between Stalin and Trotsky further underscores the political turmoil outside the hotel. Yet, within the Metropol, Rostov's world remains relatively unchanged, as he continues his routine, including his interactions with the now older Nina (Leah Balmforth). Their conversations have evolved from fairy tales to discussions on communism and capitalism, reflecting the shifting ideologies of the time.
Rostov's attempts to reconnect with Anna Urbanov (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) are met with silence, a testament to the complexity of their relationship. His persistent gestures, such as sending her champagne, are a bid to rekindle the connection they once shared. However, it is the news of his grandmother's death that truly shakes Rostov to his core. The disregard for her standing in her final rites fuels Rostov's determination to honor her memory with a grand feast, despite the hotel's objections.
The feast, intended to be a celebration of his grandmother's life, becomes a symbol of Rostov's defiance against the eroding cultural heritage. However, the absence of guests and the hotel's transformation for a communist event highlight Rostov's increasing irrelevance and isolation. The conflict with Leplevsky (John Heffernan) over the wine selection is not just a matter of taste but a battle for preserving the hotel's traditions in the face of ideological conformity.
The episode's turning point occurs when Rostov, on the verge of taking his own life, is stopped by Abram, who shares news of the bees' return and the honey's familiar taste. This act of nature, a sign of renewal and hope, convinces Rostov to continue living. Abram's insistence that Rostov has more to give resonates deeply, reminding him of his own resilience and the importance of his role as a caretaker.
In the aftermath of the failed feast, Rostov finds solace in Anna's company. Their shared moment of vulnerability, as they toast to their humbled status, leads to a renewed intimacy. This human connection, amidst the chaos of a changing world, reaffirms Rostov's will to adapt and survive.
"The Last Rostov" is a powerful exploration of despair, hope, and the human spirit's ability to endure. It is a testament to the series' ability to capture the essence of Rostov's journey, as he navigates the complexities of a world in flux. The episode masterfully weaves together themes of loss, adaptation, and the enduring power of human connections, leaving viewers with a profound sense of Rostov's inner struggle and his determination to find meaning in his confinement.