Colin Farrell takes all the spotlight this episode. The decision to cast him is justified as he delivers wide range of emotions and draws the audience with charming melancholy. Rusty Cohle was amazing, but Ray Velcoro is equally interesting in more grounded, less philosophical fashion.
Following the mishaps from the past, he reevaluates his life and eventually comes to a heavy conclusion. It's not often to see a variety of believable dilemma in the span of one TV series episode, but Farrell pulls it off. Seeing rage, guilt and sadness delivered seamlessly, audience will most likely invest to his damaged character.
The chemistry works well too, there is certain tension as he interacts with other cast, especially Vince Vaughn. His character Frank makes all sort of shady deals. The mafia boss is definitely better in his natural element of harsh environment than cushy family issue. As he digs further to satisfy demand of another party, he finds that it's a more personal effort than he thought.
This episode still has a few subtle hints, but it's more clear-cut and approachable. Rachel McAdams' Ani goes into a dangerous covert mission. She looks prettier and also more vulnerable in strange situation where she doesn't have much control. It's a different pace than the tough girl persona and definitely opens more view on her character.
It sheds away the undertone subliminal mystery and exposes the characters bare. This humanized them and made them much more relatable, even likable in all its sorrowful glory.