Ep 5. Refraction

As per the guidelines provided, I have written a description for the show Bates Motel season 4 episode 5 named Refraction. Here is my attempt:

Bates Motel season 4 episode 5, Refraction, revolves around the aftermath of the recent events that took place in the previous episodes, where we saw a rift between Norma and Romero and the chaos surrounding it. With Norma trying to distance herself from Romero and his power, the latter is trying hard to keep things under control amidst the drug war that’s escalating by the day.

The episode opens with Norma seeking the help of a therapist, Dr. Gregg Edwards (played by none other than esteemed actor Damon Gupton), to come to terms with her unresolved issues that stem from her traumatic childhood. While her therapy sessions seem to help her in some ways, they also make her realize the deep-rooted problems that exist within her family, particularly with her son Norman.

Meanwhile, Romero tries to make amends with Norma by providing her with a solution to her financial problems. He brings her the deed to the house that belonged to her mother, which she promptly sells off to alleviate her financial stress. However, their reconciliation is short-lived as they both struggle with their stubbornness, which leads them to clash again.

On the other hand, Norman's mental state continues to deteriorate, making him see things that aren't real. He sees his mother talking to a stranger, and this hallucination disrupts his peace of mind, causing him to lash out in ways that are dangerous to himself and those around him. In an effort to help the situation, Dr. Edwards suggests to Norma that she should take Norman home, but it proves to be a challenge for her as she struggles to balance her responsibilities at work and at home.

The episode also delves into the relationship between Dylan and Emma, who are dealing with their own personal struggles. Emma is distraught after learning that her father has passed away, while Dylan deals with the guilt of his past actions and tries to make amends in his own way. The two share a special moment together, which hints at their growing feelings for each other.

The theme of the episode revolves around the idea of refraction, which in optics means the bending of light that passes through different mediums, resulting in a distorted view of reality. It is a metaphor for the delusions that the characters are facing and the distorted reality that they must navigate to find a way out of their problems.

In conclusion, Bates Motel season 4 episode 5, Refraction, is a gripping episode that showcases the complex relationships between the characters, their struggles, and their attempts to overcome them. With powerful performances and a thought-provoking narrative, this episode is a must-watch for fans of the show.