Freddie McClair, the sensitive skateboarder, functions as the season’s tragic conscience. In Series 3, Freddie was the romantic hero, competing with Cook for Effy’s love. Series 4 transforms him into a figure of classical tragic impotence. His entire arc is a futile attempt to rescue Effy from her illness, and by extension, from the clinical grip of Dr. Foster.

Jack O’Connell’s performance as Cook in this episode is awards-worthy. Cook is on the run from the law and from his own self-destruction. Living in a squat, he turns to even harder drugs and violence. The episode is a masterclass in anxiety, shot like a panic attack. Cook finally confronts his abusive father (played brilliantly by Game of Thrones ’ Mackenzie Crook). But the central tragedy is his love for Effy. By the end, Cook realizes he is truly alone. It is the first time we see Cook cry, and it destroys the audience.

The season focuses on nine main characters, each receiving a dedicated episode to explore their personal struggles: Effy Stonem (Kaya Scodelario):