Photo Credit: The CW - Kristin Kreuk (L) as Catherine Chandler, Jay Ryan (R) as Vincent Keller.
OVERALL GRADE = B (85%)
With a title like “Meet the New Beast,” you would think that this would be the episode where we finally get some answers to the looming questions and mysteries that have been surrounding the entire season. Like, who is the person we need to be worried about? Who is Kyle actually working for? Who is the new beast? Well, none of our questions actually got answered. And at this point where we only have two episodes left to “explain” everything, I’m worried that everything’s going to get rushed and we won’t be able to dedicate the appropriate amount of ‘story time’ to these key elements. Instead, it looks like my ‘Kyle beast theory’ is not going to work, we don’t know what this new Muirfield wants AND we didn’t actually “meet” the new beast. We got an idea - but no revelation of identity. I wouldn’t have had much of a problem with this if the title wasn’t called “Meet the New Beast” because the title is misleading. If Kyle’s not the new beast, then I don’t know where they’re going with this. As you can see, I wasn’t quite pleased with the story progression BUT on a more positive note, I loved the character interactions and moments that were brought out of this sudden change of events - facing the reality that Vincent and Catherine have to leave everyone and everything behind. And with a show like Beauty & the Beast, where things are constantly happening non-stop, we rarely get moments where our characters can just sit down and talk about how they feel, but here we devote the time to that - to each and every one. Paired with the heartfelt performances from the entire cast, we were able to feel the weight and gravity of the situation. And it’s this that elevates the episode - not the beasts, nor the chase, nor the action - but this. For those like me, who have followed the show’s journey since season one - we feel the history behind these relationships, the exhaustion of the constant fight and the conclusion of the series - where we’ve reached a point that we hoped would never come. And in so doing, brings a sense of finality and reflection. Anger, then sadness and understanding.
The episode opens with Vincent discussing his ‘plan’ to JT. By the way, did anyone else feel that they were in the same diner that they were in season two? When Vincent decides that it was a mistake to leave Catherine behind? Funny because here, Vincent is actually discussing his plan to runaway with Catherine - complete with fake ID’s and a new life. And at this point, this plan is a “back up” plan - in case Catherine’s plan doesn’t work. Let’s discuss Catherine’s plan for a moment. Rather than running away, Catherine wants to try to ‘work’ with the law to help exonerate Vincent (a term I haven’t heard since season two). And honestly, this plan does sound like something from season two where Catherine wants to make a ‘deal’ with DHS. Vincent has reason to believe that this plan won’t work. First, DHS has never really fully proven to be reliable or trustworthy. If they’ve offered any help, it’s always been temporary. Either that or until the one ‘helpful’ DHS agent gets murdered. So Vincent has good reason to not trust DHS. But Catherine also has good reason to want to follow the law and do things by the book. And that reason is Tess.
After her clash with Tess in the previous episode, Catherine is trying to “patch things up” with her and also possibly ask for her help. I mean, why not? Like I said, whether or not Tess likes it or agrees with it, she is inevitably tied to this entire beast mess. And as captain, she can’t ignore the signs for she is the one who discovers that a beast murdered Braxton AND she’s the one who discovers the rebirth of Muirfield. Of course, as soon as Tess hints at some sort of lead, Catherine urges Tess to “dish” on the news. By the way, why did they feel the need to discuss “beasts” and “Muirfield” - both sensitive subjects - at Il Cantuccio? If they wanted alcohol, I’m pretty sure Cat has plenty at her apartment! Anyway, before Tess reveals the news, she sets some ground rules first. She is willing to help Catherine BUT wants to be able to do it the right way. Tess does this by appealing to the cop in Catherine and advises her to “trust the system.” For this is the reason why Cat became a cop - to bring justice to the world and make things right. With Tess as captain, Catherine has to trust that Tess will find a way to work with the “high ups.” Besides this possibly being their last chance to clear Vincent, Catherine also wants to be on good terms with Tess (and the perks that come along with it). So Catherine agrees with Tess’ rules - although moments later, asks Tess to withhold reporting a murder. Whoops! Muffin??
One thing that I found pointless and frustrating about this episode was watching Vincent and Catherine chase around “dead ends.” Literally. Braxton’s death led to Ecklund - who was found dead - which led to Dr. Garris - who ran away and mistook Vincent as the “new beast” - who then ran away again and was murdered. He was the one guy they actually did get to talk to - but was of no use! He didn’t know anything about the client, what Muirfield’s goal was, what happened to the prototype, etc. And we are left with no lead. Just a long string of dead guys murdered by that invisible beast.
With the reintroduction of Muirfield, we got to stir up some residual anger and frustration within Vincent. Hearing Dr. Garris talk about his “prototypes” and the innocent lives he had destroyed, brought back some dark memories for Vincent. Being one of those victims himself, Vincent can’t control his anger towards this man. What we do get out of Dr. Garris is a hint at how Muirfield has sort of been functioning. Let’s back track a bit. We can assume that Muirfield was first launched about fourteen years ago, when Vincent and his friends became the first subjects. Being that it’s sole purpose was to create “super-soldiers,” we can also assume that the military was very aware of project “Muirfield.” Perhaps the soldiers themselves did not know of its existence, but certainly the higher ups and the head honchos knew of Muirfield. And because Muirfield was part of a military program, this makes me believe that the government must have had some part in it. But because of its top secret nature, I believe that Muirfield was never completely honest about its inhumane purposes. Muirfield was introduced as a government-affiliated program designed to ‘enhance the human race’ and pioneer the ‘next step in human evolution.’ On the surface, appearing as a sort of medical program whose motives seemed to be in the best interest of the people. Even the people who worked for Muirfield were working ‘in the dark.’ Think of Catherine’s mother. She was brought in as a doctor to help these newly enhanced soldiers - never knowing that it would destroy their lives. Think of Catherine’s father. Underneath this facade, they were able to carry out their true intentions - taking away the lives of innocent people and turning them into ‘monsters’; ‘killing machines’; ‘unstoppable beasts.’ And when they no longer had control over their subjects, that’s when they decided to terminate the experiments and everyone who knew of them. And that’s where the story begins. Now, that Muirfield has resurfaced, there’s no question that the government knows something of it. Dr. Garris even admitted that the State Department had approved the ‘beast experiments.’ Which makes me question whether or not DHS knows about Muirfield? Better yet, does Agent Dylan know of Muirfield? And if she does know about Muirfield, does she know about the beast experiments?
When Vincent and Catherine reveal to the team that they have been planning to run away, everyone reacts in anger. And they have a right to be. JT’s anger stems from the feeling of failure. Being Vincent’s only friend, JT felt that it was his purpose to help protect his friend. Fourteen years of doing everything he could possibly do - for it to end like this. He wasn’t able to give his friend the life he so desperately wanted - and because of that, his friend has to leave - forever. Heather’s anger stems from the feeling of abandonment. After everything’s that’s happened to them, Catherine is all that she has left and for her to leave - it feels like Catherine is being inconsiderate and unappreciative of how much Heather has given up for her sister. Tess’ anger stems from similar feelings of abandonment and inconsideration. Especially being captain, Catherine is going to leave her mess behind for her to deal with. And Tess has been under this fire before and does not want to go through it again. After all the risks she’s taken, it doesn’t feel right for her friend to just leave - forever. But soon, the anger diminishes and it is replaced with understanding and then sadness. And it’s here, where we get our ‘one on one’ moments with each each of them.
Although Catherine has been Tess’ best friend for years, Tess has always kept her distance from Vincent. Not because he wasn’t a good guy, but because he always put her friend in danger. And because Catherine wraps her life so much around this one man, there’s a point where you do get concerned. Is it healthy for my friend to be in a relationship like this? And there’s been many times where Tess has strongly advocated against Vincent - thinking that Catherine would be better off without him. But it didn’t take long for her to realize that her friend is truly happy with and only with Vincent. Tess has never been one to believe in ‘true love’ or ‘destiny’ but she began to believe once she saw how this man loved her friend and how she loved him in return. And it’s this that Tess says to Vincent - that if they do leave, she wouldn’t miss the beast - but she would definitely miss the man. Awww. She actually does care about Vincent.
Catherine and her sister have been getting closer than ever in these last two seasons and I love their relationship. Although some may label Heather as ‘ditsy,’ ‘clumsy,’ ‘careless,’ ‘whimpy,’ or ‘whiny,’ she has definitely proven herself otherwise - putting her life in danger, sacrificing her relationship and her happiness in order to help her sister. And we do get a great testament to her growth in this episode. When Catherine tells her sister to go live her life and to be happy, Heather takes it as a green light to go run to Kyle. And although Heather is free to do what her heart desires, she is presented with an opportunity - to help her sister escape or continue to lie to Kyle. Heather chooses the former choice as she steals the files of the recently deceased patients and takes them to JT. She didn’t have to. It wasn’t her responsibility. But she did it. And it’s because of Heather that Vincent and Catherine were able to leave - granted they didn’t get very far but Heather did her part! It shows that Heather has now chosen her sister’s happiness over her own. And if that doesn’t change your mind about Heather, I don’t know what will.
I particularly enjoyed the ‘last mission’ where the boys have their last night out while Cat and Tess crack one more case. It’s these friendships and partnerships that have shaped these people to become who they are. Vincent wouldn’t have come so far without JT - his support as a friend, his scientific genius, and his relentless pursuit to protect his friend. JT has given so much for Vincent that Vincent believes that by running away, he would be able to return the favor. He tells him that while he should pursue his career, he should also pursue Tess (wink, wink). Meanwhile, Cat and Tess are back at JTHQ, reminiscing of all the times they’ve kicked ass together. Tess admits that while yes, with Cat gone, things would be easier for Tess, BUT that she wouldn’t ever find a partner and friend like Cat. I like that the ‘besties’ had that time to spend with each other because it reminds us of who Vincent and Catherine were before they met each other. Major throwback. And with Vincent and Catherine gone, all JT and Tess have is each other.
The high point and emotionally charged moment of the episode is when Tess reveals to the team that Agent Dylan told her that DHS will not make any deals with Vincent. And there’s no wiggle room for maybe’s. It was an absolute NO. This hits the entire team hard because it means that with that door closed - Vincent and Catherine’s only option for survival is to run. They all sit in silence as they know what needs to happen. Except this time, they don’t react in anger. Instead, they accept what Vincent and Catherine have to do. All they can do is say their goodbyes and wish them the best of luck. Here, the entire cast shines - they are able to communicate what they feel without saying much. Nina, Nicole, and Kristin all shed tears that make you feel their pain. But Jay, he doesn’t say a word nor shed a tear - his performance says it all. We understand what Vincent is feeling and here’s why.
Although heartbreaking to watch Heather and Catherine cry and hug each other, it is even more heartbreaking for Vincent. And he confesses these feelings to Tess. Because Vincent loves Catherine so much, he has always felt this guilt about ‘having’ Catherine, as if he were preventing her from obtaining true happiness. He feels that he is the cause of Catherine’s pain and suffering. Having her run away with him feels like she’s facing a punishment that she doesn’t deserve - it’s his punishment and she’s paying for it. Because here’s Catherine - this beautiful, intelligent, and capable woman who leaves everything behind for him. Vincent feels that he’s taken up too much of Catherine, taken away too much of Catherine, and dragged her into this hole with him. And by running away, she would have to leave behind her sister, her friends, her home, her city, her life. And no matter how committed Catherine is to Vincent, he knows that this would break her heart. And although running away is difficult for Vincent too, there’s a difference. Vincent was prepared for this since day one. He and JT had already discussed this plan years ago. And it was years ago that Vincent accepted that his fate would be one of constantly being in the run as a fugitive, a vigilante - where no place was safe for him. Catherine, on the other hand, had a completely different life set for her which changed instantly - when she met Vincent.
Since the beginning of this season, I’ve been waiting for Kyle to reveal his true colors. He’s become too obsessive and clingy that things are starting to look more and more suspicious. And the way that Heather has been acting - purposely avoiding him and keeping her distance - would be enough to drive any other guy away. But he STAYS. He’s too good to be true. This leads me to believe that there must be some other reason why he’s so persistent on Heather besides being ‘madly in love with her.’ Because Heather wasn’t giving Kyle answers to her ‘personal problems,’ Kyle felt it was his duty to figure out what was going on himself and solve ‘her problems’ himself. Again, ‘her’ issues, NOT yours. There’s a reason why she’s not telling you, Kyle. With the claim that he was ‘protecting’ Heather, Kyle notified Agent Dylan of Vincent and Catherine’s plan to run away, when he discovers that Heather stole the files of recently deceased patients. Kyle, did you think, that by outing Vincent and Catherine - your girlfriend’s SISTER and BROTHER-IN-LAW (a.k.a FAMILY also your former COWORKER!) - would ease her mind? Did you expect her to throw her arms around you and decide to marry you? Who do you think you are? Some hero? Because you’re not. You just made things worse for EVERYBODY. Including yourself, because there’s no way Heather will ever forgive you for being the cause of ruining her sister’s life. Congratulations Kyle. No one would be that stupid to pull a move like that - and Kyle has proven to be a smart guy - so whatever you’re up to, SPIT IT OUT!
So at the airport, Vincent and Catherine get arrested thanks to Kyle. Being ambushed and attacked, Vincent and Catherine can’t do much else except exchange worried glances. And this is one of the great aspects about Vincent and Catherine’s relationship - the fact that they can communicate with a look. It’s brief and quick, but it says a lot. Upon seeing that Vincent was being taken elsewhere, Catherine’s eyes lock with Vincent’s. And all he can utter before he is shoved away is, “It’s ok.” Although simple, this phrase communicates so much more between the two. It demonstrates how well Vincent knows Catherine. It all happens so quickly, but if we think about it - it speaks volumes about their relationship and how unique their bond is. Vincent knew that Catherine would be worried about him, where they would be taking him, and what they would do to him. To ease her conscience, he comforts her with those words - even though he knows that things can’t be good for himself. He’s telling Catherine, “I know you’re worried. But don’t worry about me. I’ll figure out a way. Whatever it takes, I’ll find you. We’ll get through this. Trust me.” And all Catherine can do is watch as they take him away - possibly forever. And Catherine doesn’t fall down to her knees and cry, she acts sort of stunned; frozen in shock; paralyzed realizing that all their options had come to an end. And Kristin’s choice to perform that scene in that manner is perfect - because in moments like these, you don’t know how to react. Plus, it’s not like she can do much, being arrested herself. And it’s the first time that we see Catherine on the other side of the “cop and burglar” scenario, being treated like the ‘criminal’ - an accomplice to her husband’s ‘crimes.’
What may happen next, we don’t know. All we know is that Catherine has to find a way to convince Agent Dylan that they are not the bad guys. But in so doing, I think that Catherine will have to expose Muirfield for who they really are - which means exposing the truth about Vincent, as they did with the reporter. And hopefully in the next episode, we’ll finally reveal who we’re really after and how Muirfield plays into all of this. See you all next week!
With a title like “Meet the New Beast,” you would think that this would be the episode where we finally get some answers to the looming questions and mysteries that have been surrounding the entire season. Like, who is the person we need to be worried about? Who is Kyle actually working for? Who is the new beast? Well, none of our questions actually got answered. And at this point where we only have two episodes left to “explain” everything, I’m worried that everything’s going to get rushed and we won’t be able to dedicate the appropriate amount of ‘story time’ to these key elements. Instead, it looks like my ‘Kyle beast theory’ is not going to work, we don’t know what this new Muirfield wants AND we didn’t actually “meet” the new beast. We got an idea - but no revelation of identity. I wouldn’t have had much of a problem with this if the title wasn’t called “Meet the New Beast” because the title is misleading. If Kyle’s not the new beast, then I don’t know where they’re going with this. As you can see, I wasn’t quite pleased with the story progression BUT on a more positive note, I loved the character interactions and moments that were brought out of this sudden change of events - facing the reality that Vincent and Catherine have to leave everyone and everything behind. And with a show like Beauty & the Beast, where things are constantly happening non-stop, we rarely get moments where our characters can just sit down and talk about how they feel, but here we devote the time to that - to each and every one. Paired with the heartfelt performances from the entire cast, we were able to feel the weight and gravity of the situation. And it’s this that elevates the episode - not the beasts, nor the chase, nor the action - but this. For those like me, who have followed the show’s journey since season one - we feel the history behind these relationships, the exhaustion of the constant fight and the conclusion of the series - where we’ve reached a point that we hoped would never come. And in so doing, brings a sense of finality and reflection. Anger, then sadness and understanding.
The episode opens with Vincent discussing his ‘plan’ to JT. By the way, did anyone else feel that they were in the same diner that they were in season two? When Vincent decides that it was a mistake to leave Catherine behind? Funny because here, Vincent is actually discussing his plan to runaway with Catherine - complete with fake ID’s and a new life. And at this point, this plan is a “back up” plan - in case Catherine’s plan doesn’t work. Let’s discuss Catherine’s plan for a moment. Rather than running away, Catherine wants to try to ‘work’ with the law to help exonerate Vincent (a term I haven’t heard since season two). And honestly, this plan does sound like something from season two where Catherine wants to make a ‘deal’ with DHS. Vincent has reason to believe that this plan won’t work. First, DHS has never really fully proven to be reliable or trustworthy. If they’ve offered any help, it’s always been temporary. Either that or until the one ‘helpful’ DHS agent gets murdered. So Vincent has good reason to not trust DHS. But Catherine also has good reason to want to follow the law and do things by the book. And that reason is Tess.
After her clash with Tess in the previous episode, Catherine is trying to “patch things up” with her and also possibly ask for her help. I mean, why not? Like I said, whether or not Tess likes it or agrees with it, she is inevitably tied to this entire beast mess. And as captain, she can’t ignore the signs for she is the one who discovers that a beast murdered Braxton AND she’s the one who discovers the rebirth of Muirfield. Of course, as soon as Tess hints at some sort of lead, Catherine urges Tess to “dish” on the news. By the way, why did they feel the need to discuss “beasts” and “Muirfield” - both sensitive subjects - at Il Cantuccio? If they wanted alcohol, I’m pretty sure Cat has plenty at her apartment! Anyway, before Tess reveals the news, she sets some ground rules first. She is willing to help Catherine BUT wants to be able to do it the right way. Tess does this by appealing to the cop in Catherine and advises her to “trust the system.” For this is the reason why Cat became a cop - to bring justice to the world and make things right. With Tess as captain, Catherine has to trust that Tess will find a way to work with the “high ups.” Besides this possibly being their last chance to clear Vincent, Catherine also wants to be on good terms with Tess (and the perks that come along with it). So Catherine agrees with Tess’ rules - although moments later, asks Tess to withhold reporting a murder. Whoops! Muffin??
One thing that I found pointless and frustrating about this episode was watching Vincent and Catherine chase around “dead ends.” Literally. Braxton’s death led to Ecklund - who was found dead - which led to Dr. Garris - who ran away and mistook Vincent as the “new beast” - who then ran away again and was murdered. He was the one guy they actually did get to talk to - but was of no use! He didn’t know anything about the client, what Muirfield’s goal was, what happened to the prototype, etc. And we are left with no lead. Just a long string of dead guys murdered by that invisible beast.
With the reintroduction of Muirfield, we got to stir up some residual anger and frustration within Vincent. Hearing Dr. Garris talk about his “prototypes” and the innocent lives he had destroyed, brought back some dark memories for Vincent. Being one of those victims himself, Vincent can’t control his anger towards this man. What we do get out of Dr. Garris is a hint at how Muirfield has sort of been functioning. Let’s back track a bit. We can assume that Muirfield was first launched about fourteen years ago, when Vincent and his friends became the first subjects. Being that it’s sole purpose was to create “super-soldiers,” we can also assume that the military was very aware of project “Muirfield.” Perhaps the soldiers themselves did not know of its existence, but certainly the higher ups and the head honchos knew of Muirfield. And because Muirfield was part of a military program, this makes me believe that the government must have had some part in it. But because of its top secret nature, I believe that Muirfield was never completely honest about its inhumane purposes. Muirfield was introduced as a government-affiliated program designed to ‘enhance the human race’ and pioneer the ‘next step in human evolution.’ On the surface, appearing as a sort of medical program whose motives seemed to be in the best interest of the people. Even the people who worked for Muirfield were working ‘in the dark.’ Think of Catherine’s mother. She was brought in as a doctor to help these newly enhanced soldiers - never knowing that it would destroy their lives. Think of Catherine’s father. Underneath this facade, they were able to carry out their true intentions - taking away the lives of innocent people and turning them into ‘monsters’; ‘killing machines’; ‘unstoppable beasts.’ And when they no longer had control over their subjects, that’s when they decided to terminate the experiments and everyone who knew of them. And that’s where the story begins. Now, that Muirfield has resurfaced, there’s no question that the government knows something of it. Dr. Garris even admitted that the State Department had approved the ‘beast experiments.’ Which makes me question whether or not DHS knows about Muirfield? Better yet, does Agent Dylan know of Muirfield? And if she does know about Muirfield, does she know about the beast experiments?
When Vincent and Catherine reveal to the team that they have been planning to run away, everyone reacts in anger. And they have a right to be. JT’s anger stems from the feeling of failure. Being Vincent’s only friend, JT felt that it was his purpose to help protect his friend. Fourteen years of doing everything he could possibly do - for it to end like this. He wasn’t able to give his friend the life he so desperately wanted - and because of that, his friend has to leave - forever. Heather’s anger stems from the feeling of abandonment. After everything’s that’s happened to them, Catherine is all that she has left and for her to leave - it feels like Catherine is being inconsiderate and unappreciative of how much Heather has given up for her sister. Tess’ anger stems from similar feelings of abandonment and inconsideration. Especially being captain, Catherine is going to leave her mess behind for her to deal with. And Tess has been under this fire before and does not want to go through it again. After all the risks she’s taken, it doesn’t feel right for her friend to just leave - forever. But soon, the anger diminishes and it is replaced with understanding and then sadness. And it’s here, where we get our ‘one on one’ moments with each each of them.
Although Catherine has been Tess’ best friend for years, Tess has always kept her distance from Vincent. Not because he wasn’t a good guy, but because he always put her friend in danger. And because Catherine wraps her life so much around this one man, there’s a point where you do get concerned. Is it healthy for my friend to be in a relationship like this? And there’s been many times where Tess has strongly advocated against Vincent - thinking that Catherine would be better off without him. But it didn’t take long for her to realize that her friend is truly happy with and only with Vincent. Tess has never been one to believe in ‘true love’ or ‘destiny’ but she began to believe once she saw how this man loved her friend and how she loved him in return. And it’s this that Tess says to Vincent - that if they do leave, she wouldn’t miss the beast - but she would definitely miss the man. Awww. She actually does care about Vincent.
Catherine and her sister have been getting closer than ever in these last two seasons and I love their relationship. Although some may label Heather as ‘ditsy,’ ‘clumsy,’ ‘careless,’ ‘whimpy,’ or ‘whiny,’ she has definitely proven herself otherwise - putting her life in danger, sacrificing her relationship and her happiness in order to help her sister. And we do get a great testament to her growth in this episode. When Catherine tells her sister to go live her life and to be happy, Heather takes it as a green light to go run to Kyle. And although Heather is free to do what her heart desires, she is presented with an opportunity - to help her sister escape or continue to lie to Kyle. Heather chooses the former choice as she steals the files of the recently deceased patients and takes them to JT. She didn’t have to. It wasn’t her responsibility. But she did it. And it’s because of Heather that Vincent and Catherine were able to leave - granted they didn’t get very far but Heather did her part! It shows that Heather has now chosen her sister’s happiness over her own. And if that doesn’t change your mind about Heather, I don’t know what will.
I particularly enjoyed the ‘last mission’ where the boys have their last night out while Cat and Tess crack one more case. It’s these friendships and partnerships that have shaped these people to become who they are. Vincent wouldn’t have come so far without JT - his support as a friend, his scientific genius, and his relentless pursuit to protect his friend. JT has given so much for Vincent that Vincent believes that by running away, he would be able to return the favor. He tells him that while he should pursue his career, he should also pursue Tess (wink, wink). Meanwhile, Cat and Tess are back at JTHQ, reminiscing of all the times they’ve kicked ass together. Tess admits that while yes, with Cat gone, things would be easier for Tess, BUT that she wouldn’t ever find a partner and friend like Cat. I like that the ‘besties’ had that time to spend with each other because it reminds us of who Vincent and Catherine were before they met each other. Major throwback. And with Vincent and Catherine gone, all JT and Tess have is each other.
The high point and emotionally charged moment of the episode is when Tess reveals to the team that Agent Dylan told her that DHS will not make any deals with Vincent. And there’s no wiggle room for maybe’s. It was an absolute NO. This hits the entire team hard because it means that with that door closed - Vincent and Catherine’s only option for survival is to run. They all sit in silence as they know what needs to happen. Except this time, they don’t react in anger. Instead, they accept what Vincent and Catherine have to do. All they can do is say their goodbyes and wish them the best of luck. Here, the entire cast shines - they are able to communicate what they feel without saying much. Nina, Nicole, and Kristin all shed tears that make you feel their pain. But Jay, he doesn’t say a word nor shed a tear - his performance says it all. We understand what Vincent is feeling and here’s why.
Although heartbreaking to watch Heather and Catherine cry and hug each other, it is even more heartbreaking for Vincent. And he confesses these feelings to Tess. Because Vincent loves Catherine so much, he has always felt this guilt about ‘having’ Catherine, as if he were preventing her from obtaining true happiness. He feels that he is the cause of Catherine’s pain and suffering. Having her run away with him feels like she’s facing a punishment that she doesn’t deserve - it’s his punishment and she’s paying for it. Because here’s Catherine - this beautiful, intelligent, and capable woman who leaves everything behind for him. Vincent feels that he’s taken up too much of Catherine, taken away too much of Catherine, and dragged her into this hole with him. And by running away, she would have to leave behind her sister, her friends, her home, her city, her life. And no matter how committed Catherine is to Vincent, he knows that this would break her heart. And although running away is difficult for Vincent too, there’s a difference. Vincent was prepared for this since day one. He and JT had already discussed this plan years ago. And it was years ago that Vincent accepted that his fate would be one of constantly being in the run as a fugitive, a vigilante - where no place was safe for him. Catherine, on the other hand, had a completely different life set for her which changed instantly - when she met Vincent.
Since the beginning of this season, I’ve been waiting for Kyle to reveal his true colors. He’s become too obsessive and clingy that things are starting to look more and more suspicious. And the way that Heather has been acting - purposely avoiding him and keeping her distance - would be enough to drive any other guy away. But he STAYS. He’s too good to be true. This leads me to believe that there must be some other reason why he’s so persistent on Heather besides being ‘madly in love with her.’ Because Heather wasn’t giving Kyle answers to her ‘personal problems,’ Kyle felt it was his duty to figure out what was going on himself and solve ‘her problems’ himself. Again, ‘her’ issues, NOT yours. There’s a reason why she’s not telling you, Kyle. With the claim that he was ‘protecting’ Heather, Kyle notified Agent Dylan of Vincent and Catherine’s plan to run away, when he discovers that Heather stole the files of recently deceased patients. Kyle, did you think, that by outing Vincent and Catherine - your girlfriend’s SISTER and BROTHER-IN-LAW (a.k.a FAMILY also your former COWORKER!) - would ease her mind? Did you expect her to throw her arms around you and decide to marry you? Who do you think you are? Some hero? Because you’re not. You just made things worse for EVERYBODY. Including yourself, because there’s no way Heather will ever forgive you for being the cause of ruining her sister’s life. Congratulations Kyle. No one would be that stupid to pull a move like that - and Kyle has proven to be a smart guy - so whatever you’re up to, SPIT IT OUT!
So at the airport, Vincent and Catherine get arrested thanks to Kyle. Being ambushed and attacked, Vincent and Catherine can’t do much else except exchange worried glances. And this is one of the great aspects about Vincent and Catherine’s relationship - the fact that they can communicate with a look. It’s brief and quick, but it says a lot. Upon seeing that Vincent was being taken elsewhere, Catherine’s eyes lock with Vincent’s. And all he can utter before he is shoved away is, “It’s ok.” Although simple, this phrase communicates so much more between the two. It demonstrates how well Vincent knows Catherine. It all happens so quickly, but if we think about it - it speaks volumes about their relationship and how unique their bond is. Vincent knew that Catherine would be worried about him, where they would be taking him, and what they would do to him. To ease her conscience, he comforts her with those words - even though he knows that things can’t be good for himself. He’s telling Catherine, “I know you’re worried. But don’t worry about me. I’ll figure out a way. Whatever it takes, I’ll find you. We’ll get through this. Trust me.” And all Catherine can do is watch as they take him away - possibly forever. And Catherine doesn’t fall down to her knees and cry, she acts sort of stunned; frozen in shock; paralyzed realizing that all their options had come to an end. And Kristin’s choice to perform that scene in that manner is perfect - because in moments like these, you don’t know how to react. Plus, it’s not like she can do much, being arrested herself. And it’s the first time that we see Catherine on the other side of the “cop and burglar” scenario, being treated like the ‘criminal’ - an accomplice to her husband’s ‘crimes.’
What may happen next, we don’t know. All we know is that Catherine has to find a way to convince Agent Dylan that they are not the bad guys. But in so doing, I think that Catherine will have to expose Muirfield for who they really are - which means exposing the truth about Vincent, as they did with the reporter. And hopefully in the next episode, we’ll finally reveal who we’re really after and how Muirfield plays into all of this. See you all next week!