In the penultimate episode of "Based on a True Story," titled "National Geographic," the series delves into the dark underbelly of true crime storytelling as Nathan and Ava navigate the aftermath of their podcast's cancellation and the twisted desires of those around them. The episode opens with Nathan grappling with the news that "Based on a True Story" has been dropped from all major podcast streaming platforms, a devastating blow to their dreams of success.
Desperate to salvage their creation, Nathan fantasizes about a moment with Ruby, which sparks a radical idea: to go independent and cultivate a subscription-based audience. Matt, ever the unpredictable wildcard, is thrilled by the prospect, seeing it as an opportunity to introduce new content. However, his excitement is tempered by a chilling announcement – he has been missing the thrill of killing and feels the urge to return to his deadly pastime. This revelation sends a shiver down Ava and Nathan's spines, as they vehemently oppose his dangerous plans.
In a parallel storyline, Tory stumbles upon Ava in a moment of vulnerability, leading to a confession of Ava's secret fantasies about a buyer named Ryan. Tory's warning about the potential consequences of indulging in such fantasies adds another layer of tension to Ava's already strained emotional state.
At Nathan's club, suspicions arise as Nathan realizes Matt has ended his relationship with Michelle, fearing she may be his next victim. Before he can alert Ava, Matt abducts Nathan, taking him to their local pub for a game of darts and a heart-to-heart conversation. Matt's confession about the significance of being the center of the podcast and the adoration of his fans as the West Side Ripper is a stark reminder of the power and danger he wields. His manipulation and gaslighting of Nathan, making him feel responsible for the dog's death, pushes Nathan to the brink of aggression.
Ava's storyline takes a turn as she confesses her fantasies to Ryan, only to be met with his lack of reciprocal feelings. This rejection fuels Nathan's anger and frustration, leading to a heated confrontation with Ruby, who attempts to blackmail her way into the podcast experience. In a dramatic twist, Nathan surprises Ava by blindfolding her and driving her to a beachside house in Malibu, which he claims to have leased for them. Ava's surprise quickly turns to anger as she confronts Nathan about their marital issues, accusing him of giving up on life after his tennis injury and becoming emotionally closed off.
Their argument is abruptly interrupted by a horrifying discovery – a dead body on the doorstep of their would-be new home. The shock is palpable as they recognize the victim as Ruby, a blue dart lodged in her neck, a chilling signature of the West Side Ripper's latest strike.
"National Geographic" is a haunting exploration of the lengths people will go to for fame and the destructive nature of unchecked desires. The episode is a masterclass in suspense, with each scene building upon the last to create a sense of impending doom. The performances are raw and intense, capturing the characters' desperation and the moral quagmire they find themselves in. As the series continues to unfold, this episode leaves viewers with a lingering question: how far will Nathan and Ava go to protect their creation, and at what cost to their conscience and their relationships?