Jacob Snell: The Complex Crime Boss of Ozark

Introduction

Jacob Snell, portrayed by Peter Mullan, is a pivotal character in the Netflix series Ozark, a crime drama that delves into the intricate world of money laundering, drug trafficking, and the complexities of human relationships. As the crime boss of Osage Beach, Jacob Snell is an integral part of the series’ narrative, bringing to life a character rooted in the dark history and cultural nuances of the Ozarks.

Jacob and his wife, Darlene, have been involved in the heroin trade since the Great Depression, their family’s legacy in the region marked by violence, intimidation, and a deep-seated resistance to external threats ^[1][5]. This backstory connects Jacob to broader literary traditions that often portray the Ozarks as a region of rugged individualism and hidden dangers, echoing themes found in works like The Shepherd of the Hills ^[4].

Role in the Series

Jacob Snell’s storyline is deeply intertwined with the main plot of Ozark. He and his wife Darlene are introduced as established heroin producers who become key players in the Byrdes’ money laundering scheme. The Snells’ involvement begins when Marty Byrde, the financial advisor turned money launderer, arranges a deal between the Snells and the Navarro cartel to open a riverboat casino on the Snells’ land ^[1][5].

However, Jacob’s relationship with Darlene and their business partners is fraught with tension. Darlene’s impulsive and violent nature often clashes with Jacob’s more rational and level-headed approach. This dynamic is highlighted when Darlene kills Camino "Del" Del Rio, a representative of the Navarro cartel, after he insults the Snells ^[1][5].

As the series progresses, Jacob’s attempts to navigate the complex web of alliances and rivalries lead to significant conflicts. He murders Ash, a loyal servant and surrogate son to Darlene, to appease the cartel, and later makes a deal with Marty and Helen Pierce to cede much of the Snells’ land to the U.S. government in exchange for protection ^[1][5]. However, realizing Darlene will never comply with the cartel’s terms, Jacob plans to kill her, but she anticipates this and kills him first ^[1][5].

Character Analysis

Jacob Snell is a multifaceted character whose personality and motivations are central to the series. He is depicted as a man with a strong sense of southern charm and hospitality, traits that he occasionally uses to his advantage ^[3]. Unlike Darlene, Jacob is more rational and less prone to violence, often seeking practical solutions to the problems they face ^[3].

Despite his involvement in criminal activities, Jacob has a certain likability due to his principled nature and the deep love he has for Darlene, even though she is capable of living without him ^[2]. This complex relationship between Jacob and Darlene is a highlight of the series, showcasing a power couple with significant influence in the Ozarks ^[2].

Jacob’s flaws are also evident; his inability to control Darlene’s actions and his eventual decision to try and kill her reflect his desperation and the crumbling of his moral boundaries ^[1][5]. This character development makes Jacob a compelling and relatable figure, as audiences can see the human side of a character deeply entrenched in a world of crime.

Themes and Symbolism

Jacob Snell embodies several themes that are central to Ozark. One of the most significant is the theme of family and loyalty. Jacob’s relationship with Darlene and their commitment to their family’s legacy in the heroin trade highlight the complexities of familial bonds and the lengths to which people will go to protect their loved ones ^[1][5].

Another theme is the struggle between tradition and modernity. The Snells’ resistance to the changes brought about by the Byrdes and the Navarro cartel reflects a broader cultural resistance to external influences in the Ozarks. This resistance is rooted in the historical context of the region, where forced relocations and the creation of recreational lakes have left lasting psychic scars ^[4].

Jacob also symbolizes the duality of the Ozark region itself – a place of both beauty and danger, where the lines between right and wrong are often blurred. His character serves as a reminder of the region’s complex history and the enduring impact of past events on present-day lives ^[4].

Cultural Impact

Jacob Snell’s character has had a significant cultural impact, particularly in how he and Darlene are perceived by audiences. The portrayal of the Snells as a powerful, yet troubled, couple has resonated with viewers, adding depth to the series’ exploration of crime and family dynamics.

The character’s reception has been mixed, with some critics praising Peter Mullan’s performance for bringing nuance to a complex character, while others have criticized the show for perpetuating hillbilly stereotypes ^[3][4]. However, Jacob’s character is more than just a stereotype; he represents a multifaceted exploration of the human condition within the context of the Ozarks.

Critical Reception

Critics have varied in their interpretation of Jacob Snell’s role in Ozark. Some have praised his character for adding a layer of complexity to the show, highlighting the moral ambiguities and the human side of a crime boss ^[3]. Others have noted that while Jacob is a compelling character, his eventual demise feels somewhat predictable given the show’s narrative arc ^[2].

Audiences have also had mixed reactions, with some appreciating the depth and complexity brought by Jacob’s character, while others have found his relationship with Darlene to be the most compelling aspect of his storyline ^[2].

Legacy

Jacob Snell’s legacy in Ozark is one of complexity and depth. His character has inspired discussions about the portrayal of crime bosses in media and the nuances of human relationships within criminal contexts. The way his story intersects with broader themes of family, loyalty, and the struggle between tradition and modernity has made him a memorable figure in contemporary television.

His influence can be seen in how other shows and films approach the portrayal of complex, morally ambiguous characters. Jacob Snell’s character serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of worlds, there are layers of humanity that make characters relatable and compelling.