Ep 11. Mr. Selfridge, Season 4: Episode 1
In the eleventh episode of Season 46 of Masterpiece, titled "Mr. Selfridge, Season 4: Episode 1," we are transported to the glamorous world of London's Selfridge's department store in 1928. This exciting episode marks the beginning of the fourth and final season of the critically acclaimed British period drama series, which brings closure to the captivating story of retail magnate Harry Gordon Selfridge.
As the episode opens, we find that several years have passed since the events of the previous season. With the Great War and its aftermath now a distant memory, London is abuzz with anticipation and excitement as it embraces the dawn of a new era. Harry Selfridge, played brilliantly by Jeremy Piven, returns to his beloved department store after a long absence, ready to reclaim his position at the helm.
However, Harry quickly discovers that much has changed in his absence. A new managing director, Mr. Grove, portrayed by Tom Goodman-Hill, has taken over the reins of the business and implemented various modernizations meant to keep Selfridge's ahead of its competitors. While the changes are met with mixed reactions from the employees, Harry is determined to put his own mark on the store once again and revitalize its former glory.
Among the challenges Harry faces upon his return is the strained relationship with his two daughters, Violette and Rosalie, portrayed by Kara Tointon and Frances O'Connor respectively. Having been raised with a taste for luxury and privilege, the girls struggle to adapt to their father's presence and the repercussions it brings. Their personal experiences and desires shape their interactions with Harry and provide additional layers of depth to the narrative.
Meanwhile, Agnes Towler, played exceptionally by Aisling Loftus, has also experienced significant changes in her own life. Having risen through the ranks to become the head of display, she now finds herself torn between her loyalty to Harry and her new romantic relationship with Henri Leclair, the store's charismatic window dresser portrayed by Grégory Fitoussi. Agnes' journey serves as a compelling subplot, further highlighting the personal and professional dynamics at play within Selfridges.
As the episode progresses, we witness the store's employees navigate the challenges and triumphs of both their personal and professional lives. Intriguing new characters join the ensemble cast, such as Miss Mardle's niece, Valerie, portrayed by Polly Walker, adding fresh perspectives and conflicts to the storylines.
"Mr. Selfridge, Season 4: Episode 1" masterfully embodies the series' signature blend of elegant costumes, beautiful set design, and engaging storytelling. The attention to detail in recreating the opulence and grandeur of 1920s London is simply breathtaking, immersing viewers in an era known for its social change and cultural transformation. With its seamless combination of historical events and fictional storylines, this episode offers a compelling glimpse into the lives of the characters within a rich and vibrant historical context.
Ultimately, "Mr. Selfridge, Season 4: Episode 1" sets the stage for a riveting final season filled with love, loss, ambition, and personal growth. As Harry Selfridge's journey nears its conclusion, viewers are taken on a captivating rollercoaster of emotions, eagerly anticipating how the characters' fates will intertwine and unfold. Woven through with themes of identity, family, and the pursuit of dreams, this episode invites audiences to immerse themselves in the captivating world of Mr. Selfridge one last time, savoring every moment of this beloved British period drama.
