“A Gentleman in Moscow” episode 4, “Good Times,” shows Alexander Rostov adjusting to changing conditions in post-revolutionary Russia. Ewan McGregor’s character adapts to life within the confines of the Metropol Hotel, navigating a shifting society with resilience and grace. Let’s see what all happened in the latest episode of “A Gentleman in Moscow”.
Alexander Rostov’s Adaptation to Changing Conditions
In episode 4 of “A Gentleman in Moscow,” set in 1932, Alexander Rostov finds himself navigating the changing dynamics of Stalin’s Russia from within the confines of the Metropol Hotel. With wine bottles returning to their original labels and an increase in foreign guests interested in learning about Stalin’s rule, Rostov is an ideal choice for a server due to his knowledge of both food and wine.
While Rostov and Anna continue their affair secretly in the face of these changes, Anna’s choice of sleeping alone suggests a larger emotional gap between them. Another level of mystery is added with Osip’s entrance and his brash mannerisms. Even though he is hesitant at first, Rostov interacts with Osip and shares his books and expertise.
But Osip’s real motivation for being in the hotel is made clear by his relationship with Alexei Nachevko, the newly appointed Minister of Culture and Anna’s presumed love interest. Using Anna’s relationship with Nachevko as leverage, Osip coerces Rostov. This information highlights Rostov’s difficulties in managing personal and political entanglements during this turbulent time in Russian history and deepens the interpersonal intricacies within the Metropol Hotel.
In the fourth episode of “A Gentleman in Moscow,” Johnny Harris’s stern secret police officer Osip Glebnikov continues to teach Alexander Rostov the finer points of gentlemanly manners. Despite Rostov’s best efforts to teach him manners, Osip finds it difficult to project sophisticated behaviour, as seen by his awkward motions during meals.
They move from discussing Leo Tolstoy’s “War and Peace” to discussing Victor Hugo’s “Les Miserables,” during which Osip questions Jean Valjean’s kindness towards Inspector Javert.
Political Intrigue in A Gentleman in Moscow
Further in “A Gentleman in Moscow” episode 4, using threats, Osip forces Alexander to assist him in keeping an eye on Nachevko, the new minister of culture, as he believes the latter is betraying Stalin. Alexander reluctantly consents to relay messages through the bar hostess since he doesn’t want to compromise his guests. Suspicion grows when Nachevko is seen giving something to General Belsky, but Rostov sticks to his moral convictions.
During a chance encounter with journalist Freya (played by Camilla Beeput), she proposes an exclusive article on Rostov, framing it as an opportunity for him to share his story. But Rostov says no, not wanting to draw too much attention to himself.
When Rostov sees Nina Kulikova in the hotel lobby, he finds out that she is departing Moscow to take part in Stalin’s collectivization scheme, signalling that she has to get away from him as much as possible.
In the meantime, Mishka recounts a recent event with Chekhov’s letters to show her displeasure with the strict censorship of Stalin’s dictatorship. In an advisory to Mishka, Rostov highlights the fine line he walks in the ever-changing political environment of 1930s Russia by cautioning her against upsetting party officials.
In the course of “A Gentleman in Moscow,” as Nina describes her recent experiences and her plans to assist the shock workers in Donetsk, her return is greeted with feelings of sorrow and longing. The chessboard in the forefront acts as a symbolic reminder of her and Rostov’s previous contacts, which are now just in her memory, as they speak.
Nina rejects the idea of romance during their talk, and Rostov shows her the romantic side of the hotel by bringing her to the rooftop for a drink and a taste of honeycomb. This action highlights Rostov’s long-standing affection for the Metropol and its ability to arouse romantic feelings.
How Does The Episode End?
Later that night, Rostov visits Anna out of worry for her, only to find the Minister there, who is not amused. His warning about the dangers they are facing emphasises how dangerous their interactions are becoming while authorities are keeping a close eye on them.
Mishka’s anxiety about the nation’s declining conditions—which include the forced eviction of farmers and massive crop failures—complicates Rostov’s worries. Mishka’s disenchantment with Stalin’s government is a reflection of a more general desperation and betrayal.
When Osip shows up for a party with his family, the tension grows, and later that evening, there is a heated confrontation between Rostov and Osip. With Mishka’s life in jeopardy, Osip’s quest for actionable intelligence highlights the high-stakes political intrigue at play.
Rostov and Osip have a quiet discussion after Mishka is kicked out of the hotel for his passionate defence of Russian ideals. Because Rostov won’t sacrifice his honour, Osip leaves with a dire warning about what will happen to Mishka.
The mystery is further developed in “A Gentleman in Moscow” by disclosures of Belsky and Nachevko’s relationship, which leads to Belsky’s arrest by armed guards. The story then moves to 1938, when Nina’s daughter Sophia unexpectedly shows there, upsetting Rostov’s usual life.
With expressions of thanks and grief, Nina departs, bringing a poignant end to her visit; Rostov must now deal with new obligations and uncertainties following her departure.
Also Read: A Gentleman in Moscow Season 2: Is it Happening? Everything We Know So Far
Conclusion
“A Gentleman in Moscow” episode 4, “Good Times,” delves deeper into the complexities of Alexander Rostov’s life within the confines of the Metropol Hotel amid the evolving landscape of post-revolutionary Russia. The intricate interpersonal dynamics, political intrigue, and Rostov’s unwavering commitment to honour and morality set the stage for compelling developments and unforeseen challenges in subsequent episodes.
