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The series finale of Murdaugh: Death in the Family, titled The Man in the Glass, represents a pivotal moment in the true-crime genre. It examines the tragic events surrounding the Murdaugh family, particularly focusing on Alex Murdaugh’s actions. Jason Clarke, who portrays Alex Murdaugh, engaged in extensive research to prepare for the role. This preparation included listening to court testimonies and viewing related videos, which enabled him to authentically capture the complex psychology of the character.
Examining the character of Alex Murdaugh
Clarke characterizes Alex Murdaugh as both charismatic and sinister. He compares Murdaugh to a modern-day antihero, similar to Tony Soprano, who captivates his audience while concealing darker impulses. Clarke remarks, “He’s an entertainer, not a sad figure, but a man full of bravado.” This flamboyance sharply contrasts with the chilling calm he displays during the murders of his wife, Maggie, portrayed by Patricia Arquette, and son, Paul, played by Johnny Berchtold.
Crafting the iconic murder scene
The murder scene is executed with precision, contrasting sharply with the theatricality often associated with Murdaugh’s character. This critical moment was carefully orchestrated, with Clarke working closely alongside the show’s creators and director Steven Piet. Their goal was to authentically portray the raw emotion and horror of the event, beginning with mundane activities, such as Maggie’s dog discovering a dead chicken. This incident inadvertently places Alex at the crime scene, highlighted by a Snapchat video recorded by Paul.
In a chilling sequence, Alex retrieves a blue raincoat and two firearms, leading to a swift and brutal confrontation with his son before he turns on Maggie. Clarke underscores the necessity of brevity in this scene, stating, “We needed to convey the chaos and finality without overindulging in the horror of it.” The filming environment was somber, reflecting the gravity of the narrative, with the actors fully immersed in their roles.
Examining the aftermath
The series increasingly focuses on the impact of the murders on surviving family members, especially Buster Murdaugh (Will Harrison). The finale delves into the events leading up to that tragic night and the emotional fallout that ensues. The creators sought to humanize Maggie and Paul, who became victims in a narrative largely defined by Alex’s actions.
Understanding the victims
Fuller and Carr, the creators of the series, aimed to add depth to the characters of Maggie and Paul, who were often reduced to mere headlines in media coverage. They explore the complexities of their lives, addressing past mistakes while highlighting their desires for redemption and connection. For example, a speculative scene depicts Maggie and Paul discussing their strained relationship, suggesting a potential path toward healing that tragically never comes to fruition.
This portrayal seeks to reshape viewers’ perceptions of the Murdaugh family, depicting them not as one-dimensional figures but as individuals grappling with their own flaws and the devastating repercussions of Alex’s actions. Carr emphasizes this point, stating, “They were victims of Alex Murdaugh, regardless of any past mistakes.”
The broader implications of the series finale
The series finale effectively ties together the intricate threads of this true crime saga, offering a profound examination of guilt, betrayal, and the quest for understanding. Clarke’s portrayal highlights the dedication of the cast and crew to present an authentic and respectful retelling of the Murdaugh family’s tragic story. As audiences reflect on the series, it becomes clear that while Alex Murdaugh’s actions were reprehensible, the lives of those impacted deserve recognition and empathy.