Ep 3. Connor's Wedding

In the third episode of Succession's fourth season, titled Connor's Wedding, the spotlight shifts to the extravagant and tumultuous wedding of Connor Roy, the eldest son of media mogul Logan Roy. As the family comes together to celebrate, the underlying tensions and intricate dynamics that characterize the Roy family begin to unravel, setting the stage for a dramatic exploration of loyalty, ambition, and the fallout of power struggles within the family and beyond.

The episode opens with a blend of anticipation and dread. Connor, played by Alan Ruck, has always been somewhat of an outsider in the Roy family, a fact that adds layers to the complexities of this momentous occasion. Unlike his siblings, who are entrenched in the relentless and cutthroat world of their father’s media empire, Connor has chosen a different path, influenced by his eccentric beliefs and a desire to carve out his own identity. This wedding, a celebration that should evoke joy, becomes emblematic of Connor’s ongoing struggle for validation within a family dominated by ruthless ambition.

As the preparations for the wedding unfold, a vibrant cast of characters is introduced, each bringing their own agenda to the event. The opulence of the venue serves as a stark backdrop to the underlying discord, with each member of the Roy family grappling with their internal conflicts and external expectations. The episode skillfully juxtaposes the lavish celebration against the family’s dysfunction, crafting an atmosphere thick with tension.

Kendall Roy, portrayed by Jeremy Strong, is particularly affected by the event, as it serves as a poignant reminder of the fragile bonds that tie the family together. The pressure on him is palpable, especially as he navigates his relationship with his siblings and his father. His emotional and mental state is exacerbated by the looming sense of whether they will all be able to reconcile their differences, or if the wedding will serve merely as a flashpoint for their unresolved issues.

Meanwhile, Shiv Roy, played by Sarah Snook, is caught in a whirlwind of emotion as she grapples with her own conflicting feelings about family loyalty and her aspirations for power. Her interactions with her brothers and her father are charged with complexity, as she seeks to assert her position in the family hierarchy. The wedding provides a unique backdrop for the unfolding tension, as Shiv must confront past grievances while trying to support Connor—the sibling whom she has often dismissed.

Romulus, or Roman Roy, portrayed by Kieran Culkin, offers a blend of biting wit and vulnerability in this episode. His attempts to navigate the family’s chaotic dynamics are both humorous and poignant. As the wedding day progresses, Roman is faced with difficult choices and must confront whether he will continue to play the role of the irreverent brother or step up when it matters most. His interactions with Connor highlight the nuances of brotherhood in the context of familial expectations and the ever-present shadow of their father’s dominance.

Logan Roy, played masterfully by Brian Cox, looms large over the festivities, his presence both commanding and intimidating. The wedding becomes a microcosm of the Roy family's broader struggles—a battleground where loyalties are tested, old wounds are reopened, and personal ambitions clash with familial duties. Logan’s unwavering focus on power and control sets the tone for the day, as those around him, particularly his children, must navigate their relationships under the weight of his expectations.

As the ceremony and reception unfold, the episode delves into the complexities of love, loyalty, and betrayal inherent in the Roy family. Revelatory moments abound as characters confront long-held resentments and hidden desires, leading to heated exchanges that capture the essence of what it means to belong—or to be excluded—from the Roy legacy. The tension escalates with each passing moment, making viewers acutely aware that underneath the celebratory façade lies a tempest of unresolved issues.

The cinematography and score of Connor's Wedding enhance the emotional landscape, weaving a rich tapestry of sound and imagery that reflects the internal struggles faced by the characters. As the day culminates in unexpected turns, viewers are left at the edge of their seats, captivated by the uncertain fate of the Roy family and the impact of this monumental event.

With masterful performances and sharp, incisive writing, Connor's Wedding not only chronicles the chaos of a family celebration but also invites the audience to reflect on the nature of familial bonds, the pursuit of power, and the inevitable consequences that arise when ambition and love collide. This episode serves as a powerful testament to the complexities of human relationships, setting the stage for a season that promises to unravel the very fabric of the Roy family's empire.