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If I had to pick one word to describe what was originally meant to be the season four finale of Riverdale it would be melancholy. This episode shuts the door on the first four seasons of the show and the ending scene gives you a sense of closure in a bittersweet fashion.
Before the ending though, we get to join the core four and their ragtag group of friends as their high school journey comes to an end and they prep for the next step in their lives. They reflect on who they were and who they now are. They look for closure in maybe not the healthiest of ways but that actually might be the most normal thing Riverdale has ever done.
The remaining of the most ill-kept secrets fully come out but if you’re expecting explosions and angst, look elsewhere. But maybe that’s the point. Chapters in our lives don’t always close with a bang but sometimes with a mere whisper.
The graduation ceremony itself proves to be the most emotional scene by far (in this reviewers opinion, at least) with a wonderfully timed musical overlay that really hits home. There’s also no shortage of flashabacks sprinkled throughout the entirety of this episode that really makes the feeling of “closure” go deeper. It’s also clear that while Fred may be gone his presence on the show is still felt by those who loved him. When it comes to Archie, the memory of his dad influences everything he does and every decision he makes. Fred even has a little keepsake in the time-capsule, as he should. And speaking of time-capsules, maybe the pasts of others can influence others more than we realize.
Life can be full of regrets and we should do our best to avoid having any when we have the opportunity to control it, a concept that Veronica latches on to with both hands with Betty’s help. Parting, after all, is such sweet sorrow. And it’s a trickle effect. When one goes, others are sure to follow, if not in direction, than in intent.
If anything, Graduation does a good job in setting up a big time-jump and opening the door for new stories to be told. I, for one, am hopeful that with new stories comes big and new drama. It’s what I lust for. Will I get what I want? Time will tell.
I only have one stray thought this time which is that it’s amusing to see how the show goes about covering up Vanessa Morgan’s pregnancy. What they’re doing is obvious but I always smile regardless.
If you think this spoiler light preview tells you nothing, well. The DNR’s are REAL this time and it kinda ties your hands. As I’ve said before, thank your reviewers, folks.
Riverdale airs on The CW Wednesdays at 8/7c
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