Ep 4. María del Desierto

In the fourth episode of the first season of The Bridge, we are introduced to several new characters, including a woman named Maria. The episode's title, "Maria del Desierto," translates to "Maria of the Desert," which is an apt description for the character we meet.

Maria is a devout Catholic who lives in a solitary desert community with other religious devotees. She spends her days tending to her flock of sheep and praying to God. Maria's world is turned upside down when she witnesses a horrible crime take place right in front of her eyes.

Meanwhile, Sonya and Marco continue their investigation into the serial killer who has been targeting women on the border. Sonya's Asperger's syndrome continues to make it challenging for her to navigate social situations, and her colleagues don't always understand her behavior. However, Marco is patient with her and helps her through some of her more difficult moments.

The two detectives confront a suspect in the case, but their interrogation doesn't go as planned. The man they're questioning becomes agitated and lashes out, putting them in danger.

Back at the desert community, Maria struggles with her conscience. She witnessed a horrific crime, but she's afraid to come forward to report it. Maria is torn between her loyalty to her religious beliefs, which tell her to keep quiet, and her conscience, which tells her she needs to do something.

The episode is full of tension and suspense as the different storylines begin to converge. There's a sense of unease throughout the entire hour, as we wait for something to happen.

One of the best things about this episode is how it has a distinct sense of place. We feel the heat of the desert sun, taste the dust on our tongues, and sense the isolation of the community. The show's production design is immaculate, and every scene feels like it's a part of a cohesive whole.

The performances in the episode are excellent, particularly Annabeth Gish as Maria. She brings a quiet intensity to the role, conveying everything with just a glance. The rest of the cast is also strong, with no weak links in the bunch.

The writing is tight, with each scene serving a purpose and moving the story forward. The show's writers are masters at building tension and creating complex characters.

Overall, "Maria del Desierto" is an excellent episode of The Bridge. It's thrilling, suspenseful, and emotionally resonant. The show continues to impress with its nuanced characters, tight writing, and captivating storyline. Whether you're a fan of crime dramas or just looking for something new to watch, The Bridge is definitely worth your time.