Season 4 – Episode 3 of Money Heist: A Deep Dive

Introduction

Season 4 of the acclaimed Spanish heist crime drama series Money Heist, also known as La casa de papel, consists of eight episodes, with Episode 3 being a pivotal part of the narrative. Created by Álex Pina, the series initially aired on Antena 3 in Spain but gained global recognition after Netflix acquired the rights and re-released it worldwide.

Episode 3 of Season 4 was directed by Jesús Colmenar, who is known for his work on several episodes of the series, and written by Álex Pina and Javier Gómez Santander. The episode was released on April 3, 2020, as part of the fourth season, which marked a significant shift in the series’ tone and pace compared to its predecessors.

What sets Money Heist apart within its genre is its complex storytelling, non-linear narrative, and strong emotional dynamics. The series subverts traditional heist genre conventions by focusing on character relationships, cultural identity, and themes of rebellion against societal injustices ^[1].

Plot Summary

Episode 3 of Season 4 continues the intense and dramatic storyline that defines the season. The episode picks up where the previous one left off, with the gang rushing to save Nairobi’s life after she was critically injured by a police sniper’s shot.

The plot thickens as Tokyo stages a coup d’état and takes over command from Palermo, while the Professor and Marseille work to deduce that Lisbon must still be alive and is being interrogated by Alicia Sierra in the police command post tent outside the bank. The Professor manages to establish a 48-hour truce with the police through Tamayo’s assistant, Antoñanzas, allowing the gang to focus on saving Nairobi’s life.

However, the situation becomes more complicated when Gandía, the chief of security for the Bank of Spain, escapes from his restraints and begins communicating with the police from a panic room inside the bank. Gandía’s actions lead to a violent cat-and-mouse game with the gang, culminating in him shooting Nairobi in the head, which results in her immediate death.

The episode concludes with the gang recapturing Gandía and the Professor exposing the unlawful torture of Rio and Lisbon’s detention to the public. This move leads to Sierra’s dismissal and her subsequent pursuit of the Professor on her own, marking a significant turn in her character’s arc ^[1].

Themes and Symbolism

Season 4, Episode 3 of Money Heist delves into several central themes that are characteristic of the series. One of the primary themes is the concept of loyalty and solidarity among the gang members. Despite their individual motivations and pasts, the characters come together to survive and protect each other, highlighting the strength of their bonds and the moral code they adhere to.

The episode also explores the theme of rebellion against systemic injustices, particularly in the context of the financial crisis and austerity measures in Spain. The Professor’s actions in exposing the police’s unlawful tactics and the public’s reaction to these revelations underscore the series’ allegory of resistance against oppressive systems ^[2].

Symbolism plays a crucial role in the narrative, with the red suits and Dalí masks becoming icons of resistance and unity. These symbols are not just visual elements but also represent the gang’s identity and their mission to challenge the status quo. The use of these symbols in the episode reinforces the idea that the heist is not just about personal gain but about making a statement against the system ^[1].

Cultural Impact

The release of Season 4, Episode 3 of Money Heist had a significant cultural impact. The episode, along with the rest of the season, broke numerous viewership records for non-English Netflix series, attracting 65 million households in its first four weeks. This success was not limited to viewership; the series also influenced popular culture globally.

The show’s iconography, including the red suits and Dalí masks, was adapted and referenced in various contexts, from social media to real-life events. For instance, the costumes were worn at the Rio Carnival, and Dalí icons were displayed on huge banners in Saudi Arabian football stadiums. These elements became symbols of resistance and solidarity, transcending the show itself ^[1].

However, the series also faced negative responses due to its influence. In several incidents, real-life robbers wore the show’s costumes and copied the fictional robbers’ infiltration plans, leading to security concerns and bans on the costumes at certain events ^[1].

Critical Reception

Season 4, Episode 3 of Money Heist received positive reviews from critics, who praised the episode’s tension, character-driven storytelling, and technical achievements. The episode was part of a season that was described as “the most traumatic” by Álex Pina and executive producer Esther Martínez Lobato, due to its intense plot and emotional impact on the characters and audience ^[1].

On Rotten Tomatoes, the fourth season received high praise, with many critics noting the series’ ability to maintain its high energy and emotional depth. However, some critics also pointed out that the internal drama between characters could feel hollow at times, and the non-linear narration, while engaging, could be challenging to follow ^[1][3].

The episode’s portrayal of violence and the consequences of the characters’ actions also sparked discussions among critics and audiences. The death of Nairobi, in particular, was a pivotal moment that elicited strong reactions, highlighting the show’s ability to emotionally engage its viewers ^[1].

Legacy

Season 4, Episode 3 of Money Heist is part of a series that has left a lasting legacy in the world of television. The show’s innovative storytelling, strong characters, and cultural significance have made it a benchmark for heist dramas.

The series continues to inspire filmmakers and artists, with its influence seen in other shows and media. For example, the South Korean series Squid Game adapted the symbolism of the red suits and masks but in a reversed context, highlighting the versatility and impact of Money Heist‘s iconography ^[2].

The show’s themes of rebellion, loyalty, and the struggle against systemic injustices continue to resonate with audiences worldwide, making it more than just a heist series but a cultural phenomenon. As one of the most-watched productions on Netflix, Money Heist has cemented its place in cinematic history, ensuring its enduring relevance and influence in the years to come.

Season 4 – Episode 3: Anatomy Lesson