‘Slow Horses’ Recap: ‘Grave Danger’

10/2/2024

Written by John Edward Betancourt

Kristin Scott Thomas and James Callis as Diana Taverner and Claude Whelan in Episode 405 of ‘Slow Horses’ – ‘Grave Danger’. (Photo Courtesy of Apple.)

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 405 of ‘Slow Horses’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.

Not that long ago, we talked about one of the biggest strengths of the Apple TV+ series, Slow Horses. In that, this is that rare spy story that offers up a complete and satisfying story, every single season. Simply because, any questions we have, any plot threads that are introduced, are resolved by season’s end. Allowing for us to digest a whole journey, one that will also feature spills and thrills along the way and well, that’s top of mind today, simply because the process to make that happen got underway during this week’s episode. For ‘Grave Danger’ began to send answers our way, and it made sure to keep us on our toes as well.

For instance, this story took the time to answer some questions about why Moira made her way to Slough House, and that related to the fact that she… did some honest work at the Park, and in doing so, potentially exposed a scandal in the making. Because a case she was working, one that involved a prostitution ring, came to the desk of someone quite important at the Park. Someone who was involved in that very ring because of their own desires and well, they could not have that exposed. So, they sent Moira packing, and what matters most here, is that Roddy is the one who pulled all this information together, including the identity of the person that wanted this secret kept quiet, and it just so happened… that the person of interest in this case was none other than Claude Whelan himself.

All of which added new and dark depth to his supposedly squeaky-clean character, as did quite the decision he made with Taverner in this tale. Because he finally came to realize the scope of this case and that Harkness had committed some horrible acts with what MI5 supplied him with. Prompting him to want to do what he did to Moira and go the extra mile to keep all of this a secret. But alas, Flyte’s desire to go places and Giti’s intelligence, made it clear that Claude ‘Clean Record’ Whelan was about to have his first scandal on his watch, and maybe more if Moira and Roddy decide to make what they’ve discovered open to the public. But what matters more, is that we know at last, that Claude is as scuzzy as they come and perhaps… a perfect fit for MI5… and that Moira is more than meets the eye.

Aimee-Ffion Edwards, Christopher Chung, Tom Brooke, Kadiff Kirwan and Rosalind Eleazar as Shirley Danger, Roddy Ho, J.K. Coe, Marcus Longridge, and Louisa Guy in Episode 405 of ‘Slow Horses’ – ‘Grave Danger’. (Photo Courtesy of Apple.)

But those weren’t the only answers we received in this tale. Because Lamb wanted to know what happened, and that was why he dragged David out into the countryside to see his late wife’s grave. To emotionally compromise him and let that emotion finally bring out the truth hiding in his mind. In fact, he even went so far as to poke the bear further by claiming David killed his grandson. Which really sent him reeling but finally, informed us that Frank Harkness was former CIA, who wanted to set up a rogue assassination squad, and River’s mother flocked to him. Which prompted David to give Harkness everything he needed to bring his daughter home. Setting in motion murder and mayhem and giving us the answers we seek. All so the show could shift gears and offer up that trademark action and set the stage for a brutal finale.

One that apparently, will involve some exposing of secrets on behalf of Harkness. Who spent most of this episode at Molly’s place. All to monitor River’s progress toward the Park and to prepare messages for a bevy of people, including Whelan. Which does indeed leave us to wonder just how much bad that man has done. But soon we will find out, and thankfully, Harkness didn’t harm Molly. But harm did come to Flyte’s team and Flyte herself. For when they were inches from the Park, Harkness’ Terminator struck true. Wherein he killed Flyte’s team and knocked her unconscious, before kidnapping River. Leaving all of us to wonder if River will be okay or if he is nothing more than bait for David Cartwright, whom Harkness seems to hate with a passion few of us have ever known.

All of which made, for an amazing episode through and through. One that taught us Claude ‘Mr. Clean’ Whelan is as dirty as they come and projects a clean image for all kinds of psychological reasons, and that he can and will get ugly to keep his image in that light. Alongside the truth about Harkness, and a better understanding of his dastardly plans for revenge, since it would seem he wants to keep his business going and wants to stay in the shadows and getting rid of key players will do it. Plus, that finale in the streets was just incredible and truly put us on the edge of our seats and well, it also left us desperate for more of this dynamic series. Since we must know how this epic and stunning season of storytelling will come to a close. Until next time.

To learn more about Moira’s journey in season four, visit our interview with Joanna Scanlan, who plays Moira on the show.

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