The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel Season 5 Episode 9, “Four Minutes,” is a series finale that brings a mostly satisfying conclusion to these characters and stories. This series finale highlights the best and worst of what this story has been from the beginning. While this series finale may not satisfy all fans, everyone ultimately ends up exactly where they need to be. All is right in the Maisel television universe.
It makes sense to start discussing the ending by speaking about the force of nature herself, Midge (Rachel Brosnahan) and how she got her big break. Everything this season has been leading her to this moment. She’s endured this job that she doesn’t particularly enjoy, all in the hope of having one shot at stardom. The fact that she chooses courage when the moment does come feels like this character coming full circle.
As phenomenal as Midge’s storyline is, it’s unfortunate that right to the end, the series continues to demonize comedy writing. While there have been glimpses of this being a genuine comedic story about comedy writers specifically, everything about this storyline feels like a mockery. Why can’t comedy writers have success as comedians themselves? As a character, Midge clearly knows how to write and construct a joke. Why could she not have continued developing these skills in tandem and used her writing to become the best comedian she could be?
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel Season 5 Episode 9, “Four Minutes,” also features a heartwarming send-off for Lenny Bruce (Luke Kirby). While many fans have missed this character this season, his role here is a perfect one. Of course, the real Lenny Bruce’s story ended in tragedy. It’s sweet that the focus of this character’s story on this episode is on Bruce’s impact rather than his tragic fate. Romance aside, Bruce has evidently influenced the person Midge has become.
Susie (Alex Borstein) is also given a beautiful ending that she always deserved. She and Midge have been on such a journey. The finale is a reminder that there is no Marvelous Mrs. Maisel without Susie and her talents and sheer force of will. Susie’s journey has been more than a little uneven throughout this final season. Ultimately, however, this is everything Susie has worked for. Before everything goes off the rails, it’s nice to see Susie at her absolute best.
The final focus on Midge and Susie’s relationship is the perfect ending to this wildly imperfect series. The final shot of these two being older women, just enjoying one another’s company, feels so right for both of them. This is where they were always meant to end up, basking in their wild successes and appreciating the impact that they’ve had on one another. After such a wild ride, this moment of calm is more than earned.
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel may have been an uneven ride. This season has been no different. Ultimately, this final episode is a sweet way to close out this story and send these characters into a metaphorical TV sunset. This series has meant a lot to so many, as a period piece and as an anthem of self-determination and self-discovery. Even at it’s most imperfect, this series has always been a fun ride.
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel Seasons 1-5 are available to stream on Prime Video.