Season 2 - The Big Sleep - Ozark

Introduction

Season 2 of the Netflix series Ozark, specifically the episode titled "The Big Sleep," is a pivotal part of the show’s second season, which was released on August 31, 2018. Created by Bill Dubuque and Mark Williams, Ozark is an American crime drama that follows the Byrde family as they navigate the complexities of money laundering for a Mexican drug cartel in the Lake of the Ozarks region. The episode "The Big Sleep" was directed by Jason Bateman, who also stars in the series alongside Laura Linney, and written by the show’s creators and writers.

The production of Ozark is notable for its meticulous attention to detail, particularly in depicting money laundering schemes. The writers’ room included an FBI agent specializing in financial crimes and a hedge-fund manager to ensure the accuracy and plausibility of the financial transactions depicted in the show^[3].

Plot Summary

"The Big Sleep" opens with a non-linear timeline, jumping between different moments leading up to a critical event. The episode begins with an ambulance arriving at the Blue Cat, where Tuck and Rachel are found unconscious. The narrative then shifts to 30 minutes prior, showing Rachel smoking and snorting drugs, which leads to her passing out.

The story further unravels by going back three hours, where Rachel encounters a drug dealer at a gas station and eventually buys heroin after initially declining. The timeline continues to leap back, showing the drug dealer picking up more drugs from a distributor named Amos, and then further back to Amos watching the financial market while awaiting a new shipment of drugs^[1].

Marty Byrde is grappling with guilt over Rachel’s situation, which leads to a confrontation with Wendy. Wendy defends their actions by listing Rachel’s transgressions, including her drug addiction and role as an FBI informant. The tension is interrupted by Sheriff Nix, who is searching for Mason Young, whose disappearance is suspicious given that the Byrdes have his baby^[1].

The episode delves deeper into the intricate web of relationships and conflicts. Helen questions the drug distributor about tampering with the drugs, leading to his eventual murder by cartel men. Marty meets with Agent Petty to plead for Rachel’s release, highlighting the moral complexities of his situation. Meanwhile, Wendy and Marty’s relationship is strained as they argue over financial dealings and their involvement with the cartel^[1].

Other key events include Ruth’s attempt to break into a funeral home with Cade, Jonah’s involvement in money laundering, and Charlotte’s theft of a book from a bookstore. The episode also explores the political and financial maneuverings of Wendy and Marty, particularly in their dealings with Wilkes and the Snells^[1].

Themes and Symbolism

"The Big Sleep" and the broader Ozark series are characterized by several central themes that add depth to the narrative. One of the primary themes is the corrosive influence of capitalism and the pursuit of wealth and power. The show portrays a world where the absence of moral and spiritual guidance leads characters to seek fulfillment through material gain, often at the cost of their humanity^[2].

The episode also explores the consequences of greed and the cyclical nature of poverty and desperation. The characters are trapped in a web of their own making, driven by their desires and fears. This is particularly evident in the Byrdes’ situation, where their attempts to escape their life of crime are consistently thwarted by their own actions and the actions of those around them^[2].

Symbolism plays a significant role in Ozark, with the Lake of the Ozarks serving as a metaphor for the capitalist ethos. The show’s title cards and setting underscore the omnipresence of consumer culture and the perversion of sacred symbols by the culture of consumption. For example, the use of a church for money laundering and hymnals for distributing heroin highlights the corruption of moral and spiritual institutions^[2].

Cultural Impact

"The Big Sleep" and Ozark as a whole have had a significant cultural impact since their release. The show has been praised for its realistic portrayal of money laundering and its exploration of the darker aspects of human nature. The series has influenced popular culture, with its themes and characters being referenced in various forms of media.

The show’s setting, the Lake of the Ozarks, has also become a symbol of the corrupting influence of capitalism, resonating with audiences who see parallels between the show’s narrative and real-world economic issues. The characters, particularly Marty and Wendy Byrde, have become archetypes for the complexities of modern morality and the consequences of one’s actions^[3].

Critical Reception

"The Big Sleep" and Season 2 of Ozark received positive reviews from critics upon release. The episode was praised for its complex storytelling, non-linear timeline, and the performances of the cast, particularly Jason Bateman and Laura Linney. The show’s direction, production values, and writing were also commended.

Critics noted the show’s ability to balance multiple plot threads and its exploration of themes such as greed, power, and the moral decay of its characters. Julia Garner’s performance as Ruth Radewald was particularly highlighted, earning her multiple Emmy Awards^[3].

However, some critics pointed out the show’s dark and often bleak tone, which could be off-putting for some viewers. Despite this, the overall reception was positive, with many praising the show’s realism and its ability to engage audiences in a complex and morally ambiguous world.

Legacy

Season 2 of Ozark, including "The Big Sleep," has left a lasting impact on television and filmmaking. The show’s influence can be seen in other crime dramas that explore similar themes of morality, power, and the consequences of one’s actions.

The show’s use of non-linear storytelling and its intricate plot structures have inspired other creators to experiment with complex narratives. The performances and direction have set a high standard for crime dramas, with many actors and directors citing Ozark as an influence.

The show’s exploration of capitalism and consumer culture continues to resonate with audiences, making it a relevant and thought-provoking piece of television even years after its release. Ozark stands as a testament to the power of storytelling in television, offering a compelling and morally complex narrative that continues to captivate audiences.

Season 2 – The Big Sleep