Warning! This article contains spoilers for The Buccaneers season 2, episode 7. Following one of the most unexpected episodes of The Buccaneers yet, episode 7 returns with renewed focus. Several weeks have passed since Richard’s tragic demise, and his family and friends are now preparing to commemorate his life during a memorial event. Conchita dedicates herself entirely to Minnie, causing concern among her friends who feel she has yet to come to terms with his loss.

In the meantime, Nan travels back to New York, where her parents’ divorce proceedings are about to commence. During this challenging time, she provides emotional support to her mother, Patti, while also reconnecting with her biological mother and Patti’s sister, Nell, although the situation is less than ideal.

The Strategic Time Jump and Location Shift Enhance the Narrative

The New York Setting Provides a Welcome Change of Pace

In this episode, The Buccaneers makes a clever narrative choice by skipping over the immediate aftermath of Richard’s death and instead picking up six weeks later. Episode 6 was arguably the darkest installment in the series, and the decision to avoid dwelling on that darkness allows for a more nuanced exploration of the grieving process for Conchita and the other characters, focusing on their experiences once the initial shock has subsided.

However, one drawback of this time leap is the absence of visible consequences for James. While Nan informs Patti that he’s currently incarcerated, the lack of a significant cathartic moment for Jinny is disappointing and leaves a gap in the storyline.

Setting a portion of the episode in New York proves to be another astute decision. This change of scenery serves as a refreshing diversion from the heavy themes surrounding Richard’s death and, similar to the earlier Italian scenes in the season, offers a visually exhilarating experience.

The Divorce Proceedings Provide a Harrowing Yet Authentic Perspective

The Return of Leighton Meester & Christina Hendricks Adds Depth

The scenes set in New York delve into significant themes, covering Patti’s contentious divorce trial as well as Nan’s confrontation with Nell regarding her birth identity. Fortunately, these serious matters are handled with care, and the writers successfully incorporate smaller, poignant moments within the larger narrative arc.

Having Patti and Nell back after being standout characters at the beginning of The Buccaneers season 2 is a pleasure, although it underscores how much their presence has been missed in certain episodes. When Patti inquires about Jinny and Conchita, it raises questions about her absence from England during such tumultuous times, though the storyline attempts to address this by having her accompany Nan and Guy back to their home.

The courtroom scenes carry a level of intensity I didn’t anticipate, but they resonate with The Buccaneers’ commitment to portraying the harsh realities of women’s experiences during that era. Additionally, it’s refreshing to observe Nan’s growth and confidence throughout these scenes – her more sophisticated hairstyle and clothing choices highlight her evolution in conversations with her parents, where she interacts as an adult rather than just a child.

The narrative cleverly uses the New York scenes to introduce moments of levity and romance, particularly with Guy’s arrival. The playful reference to their earlier moments on the staircase adds a joyful note, and after Nan has devoted much of the season to caring for others, it’s heartwarming to witness Guy’s supportive presence in her life.

Conchita’s Unconventional Reaction to Richard’s Death Offers a Refreshing Perspective

<The Buccaneers Takes a Unique Approach to Grief

After the emotionally charged episode last week, I expected Conchita to display feelings of bitterness and devastation due to Richard’s passing. However, the show takes an unexpected turn, revealing her gratitude for having loved him instead. While there are moments of frustration during the memorial, Conchita primarily directs her energy towards caring for Minnie and supporting others rather than dwelling on her own grief.

This response aligns beautifully with Conchita’s character, who has always been adept at navigating life’s challenges. It’s heartwarming to witness her stepping into a nurturing role for Jinny and particularly Honoria, affirming their sisterly bond despite the circumstances they face.

The pep talk she delivers to Honoria culminates in one of my favorite scenes of the season, where she shocks her mother by kissing Mabel in front of her. Accompanied by the joyful reactions of Lizzy, Jinny, and Conchita, this moment of romance mirrors the sweet connection between Guy and Nan in New York.

While I still harbor concerns regarding the long-term impact of Richard’s death on the series, I was pleasantly surprised by how The Buccaneers has navigated the emotional aftermath.

The Buccaneers season 2 episodes air every Wednesday until August 6 on Apple TV+.