The fourth season of FX's acclaimed neo-western crime anthology series, Fargo, frequently finds itself at the bottom of fan rankings. However, a closer examination reveals a compelling, if different, crime drama that stands on its own merits, particularly when viewed independently of the series' other installments.
Unlike its siblings, season four deviates from the familiar snowy Minnesota landscape, transplanting the narrative to 1950s Kansas City, Missouri. This shift in setting and time period brings a distinct aesthetic and a different tone. The season's central conflict revolves around two rival crime syndicates: an Italian family led by Donatello Fadda and a Black family headed by the astute Loy Cannon, portrayed by Chris Rock. The precarious peace between them is maintained through an unusual exchange of their sons, a tradition that is destabilized by Donatello's death and the subsequent impulsive actions of his son, Josto Fadda, played by Jason Schwartzman.
The season excels in its character studies and its methodical pacing. Chris Rock delivers a career-defining performance as Loy Cannon, a leader navigating the prejudices of his era with business-savvy pragmatism. Jason Schwartzman offers a compelling turn as the feckless Josto, whose poor decisions escalate into an all-out war. Jessie Buckley also makes a memorable impact as Josto's peculiar girlfriend, Oraetta Mayflower, who provides a touch of the series' signature Coen brothers-esque eccentricity.
While the season is less overtly comedic and more understated than its predecessors, its crime narrative is intricately plotted and thoughtfully executed. The focus on racial prejudice adds a new layer to the show's exploration of societal dynamics. Furthermore, the season subtly connects to the broader Fargo universe, with specific nods that reward attentive viewers without spoiling the core plot.
The departure from the more whimsical tone of films like The Big Lebowski or O Brother, Where Art Thou? might explain some of the initial fan backlash. Season four is more akin to the Coen brothers' earlier film Miller's Crossing, a straightforward crime drama that prioritizes narrative depth and character development over overt stylistic flourishes. This deliberate shift in tone and focus makes season four a unique entry in the Fargo saga. Instead of aiming for laughs, it offers a mature, complex crime story that rewards patient viewing.
All seasons of Fargo are available to stream on Hulu.