Diving into the depths of human emotions and the intricacies of long-standing relationships, "The Return" offers a compelling look into the lives of Elena Greco (Lenù) and Raffaella Cerullo (Lila), as portrayed in the seventh episode of the fourth season of "My Brilliant Friend." This installment, rich with dramatic tension and psychological insight, continues the exploration of the characters' complex dynamics against the backdrop of 1980s Naples, a city rife with social unrest and political violence.
The episode opens with Lenù reeling from the discovery of Nino's infidelity, a betrayal that cuts deep into the core of their relationship. Her partner's dismissive reaction to Nino's pleas for reconciliation underscores the universal question of why one would entertain the idea of reconciliation with someone who has caused such pain. The answer lies in the lingering embers of desire that, in Elena Ferrante's world, never fully extinguish. These embers represent the enduring nature of first loves and the struggle to let go of something that has been a part of one's identity for so long.
As Lenù grapples with her decision to move on, Antonio, her first love and a figure of kindness and turmoil, enters the scene. His revelation about Nino's numerous affairs and his offer to make Nino regret his actions provide Lenù with a lifeline in her time of need. Their intimate encounter, while a means for Lenù to assert her independence from Nino, also highlights the complex interplay between past desires and present realities.
The narrative then shifts to Lenù's domestic life, where she finds solace in motherhood and the offer of an apartment from Lila, suggesting a return to their neighborhood. This proposition forces Lenù to confront the question of whether revisiting her past would be a step towards healing or a descent into further turmoil. Professionally, Lenù is under pressure to deliver her manuscript, a task she navigates with a lie that buys her time, reflecting the chaos of her personal life.
The voice-over narration, a device that effectively grounds the audience in Lenù's perspective, is notably absent during her decision to resurrect a novel she had written about their neighborhood. This moment, framed in the book as a sudden inspiration, implies a connection between Lenù's past and her present self, a connection that comes with its own risks and uncertainties.
Lenù's encounter with Nino at her home is a testament to her growth and resilience. No longer moved by his pleas and justifications, she dismisses him with a newfound assertiveness. This marks a significant shift in their relationship, as Lenù finally asserts her independence from the man who had once held such power over her emotions.
The episode also delves into the evolving friendship between Lenù and Lila, now characterized by a newfound ease and normalcy. Their discussions about everyday matters, such as gifts for Elisa and Marcello's wedding, contrast sharply with the tumultuous events unfolding in their neighborhood. The power dynamics within the community come to a head at the wedding, where Alfonso's appearance and subsequent brutal beating by Michele expose the harsh realities of their lives.
Lila's actions, particularly her use of Alfonso as a pawn in her battle against the Solaras, reveal the depths of her determination and the lengths to which she is willing to go. Her silent struggle with guilt and fear is palpable, as is Lenù's growing awareness of the consequences of their actions.
The episode concludes with an unexpected visit from a magazine photographer to Lenù's home, capturing candid moments with her family. The subsequent magazine article, which misidentifies Tina as Lenù's daughter and uses her novel as a platform to condemn Naples, sparks a confrontation with Michele and a deeper reflection on the power of literature and its interpretation.
In "The Return," we witness the unraveling of relationships, the struggle for power, and the enduring impact of the past on the present. It is a testament to the series' ability to delve into the complexities of human emotions and the lasting influence of our formative experiences.