IR TV Review: A GENTLEMAN IN MOSCOW - EPISODE 2 (“The Invitation”) [Showtime/Paramount+]
The aspect of consequence comes down to the details. As Episode 1 of "A Gentleman In Moscow" ends, one small action changes the direction of fate, just as another one later in Episode 2 entitled "The Invitation" show how Count Rostov (Ewan McGregor) came to be, friends or no. His good friend turned frenemy Mischa (Fehinti Balogun) is both a savior and a noose as Osip (Johnny Harris) breathes down Rostov's neck waiting for him to screw up. If Rostov leaves the hotel, he will be shot. The labrinyth and the ability to find a new world for Rostov depends on the kindness of others. Rostov means no malice and you see him trying to find the balance with those that tolerate him, those that like him and others that hate him.
An actress Anna (Mary Elizabeth Winstead, McGregor's real life wife) comes into the hotel and is both charmed and puzzled by him. He in the reverse as well. A dinner scene is very well done both in its execution and their chemistry as well as the aftermath. Winstead can play hurt and powerful well at the same time while McGregor plays charming and aloof while still enforcing his position. Where it might go depends on why she is actually there, what her purpose is and where her interests lie? Nina (Alexa Goodall) gives him more pespective on trust but also shows him where his interpersonal falicies lies. But he always seems to realize his faults just in time and act accordingly when he needs to. This leads to the birth of a certain awakening. What it will lead to is probably ruin but it depends what is truly important to him. B
By Tim Wassberg
