"The Way It Came," the fourth episode of The Haunting of Bly Manor, deepens the emotional and psychological intricacies of the story, while also shedding light on Dani's haunted past. The episode begins to unravel the source of the spectral figure haunting Dani, introducing viewers to her tragic history with her late fiancé, Edmund. Through poignant flashbacks, the audience is offered a window into Dani's guilt and grief, which have manifested in the ominous image of Edmund's glowing glasses. Simultaneously, the narrative explores Dani's growing connection to Jamie, a relationship that starts to provide a sense of hope amidst the gloom of Bly Manor. This blend of emotional vulnerability and supernatural tension creates a compelling dynamic, enriching the overall narrative.
Victoria Pedretti once again delivers an exceptional performance as Dani, portraying the character's inner turmoil with raw authenticity. Her ability to convey layers of emotion without overt dialogue adds depth to the story, making her struggles deeply relatable. Amelia Eve as Jamie complements Pedretti's portrayal, offering a grounded and compassionate presence that contrasts with the eerie ambiance of the manor. The chemistry between the two actors is palpable, hinting at a budding romance that provides a refreshing counterpoint to the series' darker themes. These performances are supported by the continued excellence of the ensemble cast, particularly Rahul Kohli as Owen and T'Nia Miller as Hannah, whose subtle performances lend gravitas to even the quieter moments.
Liam Gavin's direction ensures that the episode maintains a delicate balance between horror and human drama. The pacing of the narrative allows for moments of reflection, letting the emotional beats resonate without sacrificing the tension that defines the series. The cinematography, particularly in the flashback sequences, uses warm lighting and soft focus to evoke a sense of nostalgia, contrasting sharply with the cold, shadowy visuals of Bly Manor. This visual dichotomy underscores the tension between past and present, hope and despair. However, the transitions between timelines can occasionally feel abrupt, disrupting the otherwise seamless flow of the episode.
The episode's script by Laurie Penny delves deeply into themes of guilt, repression, and the lingering effects of trauma. Dani's inability to confront her feelings about Edmund's death is mirrored by the spectral imagery that haunts her, a powerful metaphor for the way unresolved emotions can manifest in the physical world. The dialogue is both sharp and emotionally resonant, revealing the characters' vulnerabilities while advancing the plot. Additionally, the subtle hints at Jamie's backstory add layers to her character, foreshadowing future developments. Despite its strengths, the script occasionally leans too heavily on exposition, particularly during the flashbacks, which slightly diminishes the impact of the visual storytelling.
As the midpoint of the series, "The Way It Came" succeeds in advancing the overarching narrative while providing crucial character development for Dani. The episode's exploration of guilt and redemption adds depth to its haunting themes, grounding the supernatural elements in human experience. By intertwining personal trauma with the ghostly mysteries of Bly Manor, the story transcends traditional horror tropes, offering a meditation on love, loss, and the possibility of moving forward. While not without its imperfections, the episode serves as a poignant reminder of the emotional weight that lies at the heart of The Haunting of Bly Manor, leaving viewers both haunted and hopeful as the story continues to unfold.
