Marisa Abela, Harry Lawtey break down the ‘Industry’ finale’s most shocking twist

Marisa Abela, Harry Lawtey break down the 'Industry' finale's most shocking twist

As a fan who has eagerly followed the captivating journey of “Industry,” I must admit that the news of its renewal brought me immense joy. The showrunners, Mickey Down and Konrad Kay, have consistently managed to keep us on our toes with their intricate plotlines and unpredictable twists. Their ability to keep pushing boundaries and exploring new territories is truly commendable.


Warning: the following contains major spoilers from the Season 3 finale of “Industry.”

On Sunday night, the long-standing “To Be or Not To Be” question regarding Yasmin and Robert’s storyline in the show “Industry” was finally answered.

Bench sex be damned, these two will decidedly not be ending up together.

As a passionate film enthusiast, I couldn’t help but feel gut-wrenched during Sunday’s Season 3 finale, as Yasmin callously shattered Rob’s heart in a cruel twist of events. In a heartless display, she revealed that just hours after sharing an intimate moment with him for the first time, she had already become engaged to another man, Henry. It seemed that poor Rob (Harry Lawtey) was always destined to lose against the wealthy and charismatic Henry (Kit Harington). Even after Yasmin (Marisa Abela) whispered “I love you” to Rob – a sentiment she had rarely expressed – we harbored a glimmer of hope for the beloved couple in the HBO series. But alas, it seemed that fate had other plans for them.

Alas, this is “Industry.” Expecting anyone to live according to a moral compass is foolhardy.

However, let’s listen to Abela and Lawtey provide their insights directly. Recently, over a video call from their home country, the UK, these actors shared their thoughts on their characters’ relationship, Rob’s sexuality, and how they plan to manage the show next season given that all Pierpoint veterans reside in different cities (The conversation has been edited and condensed for clarity).

First of all: Marisa, how could Yasmin do this to Robert?!

Frankly, I wasn’t entirely surprised by the decision she made. In my opinion, it was her only viable option in that situation. The path she’s choosing offers a future with security, a future she can comprehend. Alternatively, returning to London with Rob would mean no job, no financial stability, and no shield against the relentless media scrutiny she’s been facing. To me, it seems like an obvious choice for someone like Yasmin.

In addition, after viewing Episode 7, I believe their interactions don’t quite align. They seem to argue most of the time. It appears Yasmin feels she frequently disappoints Robert and isn’t kind, gentle, or patient enough for him. On the other hand, Robert seems to feel he’s not providing enough to satisfy Yasmin. Essentially, they both feel they’re falling short, which isn’t a pleasant feeling. In contrast, Henry may not see Yasmin exactly as she desires or offer emotional support, but he also doesn’t ask for more than she can provide. It seems like a practical choice in the end. Had Yasmin spent two days in Wales with Robert that were idyllic and perfect, she might have made a different decision, but it just wasn’t resonating with her.

Marisa Abela, Harry Lawtey break down the 'Industry' finale's most shocking twist

It was clicking sexually!

Abela: Yes, you’re right. They shared an intense intimacy, but I believe it’s insufficient for Yasmin. She’s juggling many responsibilities in London, lacking a permanent residence and family support. It would be too much for Robert to handle all that. Consider the reverse scenario: they leave the grand estate together, returning to Finsbury Park. We observe them preparing dinner or ordering takeout that evening. What happens next for Yasmin? Beyond being with someone she loves, I think we’re overlooking the fact that this is about Yasmin. She’s tough-minded; comfort and warmth are not her top priorities.

The sex that Robert and Yasmin have is kind of the most beautiful thing about their relationship. It’s simple and it’s tender and it’s intimate, you know, compared to pissing on someone in the shower.

In a more casual and clear manner, the sentence could be: “Are you contemplating a universe where Harry identifies as bisexual? Given that both of your characters are openly sexual, this might be an intriguing exploration.

Indeed, fundamentally speaking, we’ve discussed this from our very first season. In fact, there were certain scenes that didn’t make the final cut but delved a bit deeper into this topic.

The series follows the characters’ journey through adolescence, where they find themselves in complex, awkward, and confined scenarios as part of their larger environment. Simultaneously, they strive to establish individuality amidst this system while exploring their sexual identities and personal growth. This show delicately weaves these aspects into character development, making each character unpredictable yet authentic due to their alternative way of living.

As a follower, I find myself immersed in a world where vast amounts of money, extended working hours, and high-stakes situations are the norm. This environment, with its intensity, often compels me to dive headfirst into experiences, perhaps more recklessly than an average person might. Over time, I’ve grown numb to many things, making me yearn for something novel that can excite me emotionally or physically in my relationships. In the first season, Yasmin’s requests were so audacious they left me stunned. Now, it seems more like a question of whether I’m ready to venture there with someone, rather than a definite yes or no. The uncertainty makes me ponder: “Should I take that leap with him? Perhaps. Why not? Let’s explore the journey together.

In my opinion, the audience paired Yas and Rob together because they appeared to be the most compassionate characters amidst such a tough setting. However, during the final episode, Yasmin displayed a ruthlessness that I hadn’t realized she possessed.

Abela: Regarding the audience’s expectation that Yasmin should inform Robert about her engagement by making him sit down: I believe she’s hesitant to do so. It’s not due to any ill will, but rather because she finds the idea of having this conversation with him extremely intimidating. I don’t think she has the courage to confront him in such a way.

It’s clear to me that she’s grown tougher over the course of the series, I concur. Initially, what drew Rob and her together was that she had a softer side compared to Harper (played by Myha’la). She wasn’t as single-mindedly focused on success. However, as the seasons progressed, Yasmin and Harper have started to resemble each other more due to Yasmin’s increasingly dire circumstances. Now, survival is her top priority.

Marisa Abela, Harry Lawtey break down the 'Industry' finale's most shocking twist

This shows just how much uncertainty we still have regarding the storyline, as during Season 3, there were moments when we would place wagers on potential outcomes for Robert and Yasmin by the season’s end. Admittedly, I was a bit optimistic in my guesses.

In Season 3, they display a depth and honesty that suggests they genuinely care for each other, recognizing and accepting the true selves of the other – almost as if they desire to be seen themselves, if not for the various obstacles in their small world. However, does their relationship bring daily happiness? Is this connection long-lasting? That question remains uncertain.

Yasmin finds herself in a tough situation requiring a pragmatic decision that benefits her. It might not be easy to understand, but given their relationship, it’s likely that Robert understands and accepts it swiftly, despite his deep sorrow. The promptness with which Robert recovers is unusual for him, but it’s due to the glimmer of a possibility where this situation could bring about something wonderful and brilliant, albeit a long shot. Instead, this season finale serves as a catalyst for Robert to embark on a journey of self-discovery, aiming to reclaim a part of himself that seems lost.

He does already kind of seem over it by the time he says goodbye to her in the driveway.

Robert has gained insight into both her and the system this season. His understanding now encompasses social, political, and professional aspects. He’s acknowledging the inner workings and his role within these systems, realizing he doesn’t truly fit in. Despite his efforts to accept it, he understands that Yasmin does. Their relationship was idealistic, perhaps even a fantasy at times, but I doubt it would be as idyllic as their lake scene suggests. It was more of an aspiration than a reality for him. That lake scene offers a glimpse into what he imagined, yet I believe reality would be different.

As a devoted movie buff, I find myself pondering the same questions that seem to resonate with every character in Pierpoint: “What drives me to keep coming back? What do I gain from this experience?” For most, these queries appear to have found their answers, yet for Rob, there remains one lingering question – Yasmin’s purpose. This final detachment signifies a newfound freedom for him, allowing him to pursue his own life and strive for happiness once more. The last couple of years have been filled with sorrow, but now it’s time for him to break free from the chains of melancholy.

Marisa Abela, Harry Lawtey break down the 'Industry' finale's most shocking twist

Could it be that Yasmin remains here at this grand estate? Does her lifestyle suit that of an English countryside housewife?

Abela: I have a feeling she’s not the type to merely stay at home as a wife. However, I don’t believe Henry will expect that from her either. It seems unlikely this marriage will follow traditional norms [Laughs]. I sense that neither of them are dependent on each other for those roles. I’m guessing she’ll frequently travel between London and elsewhere.

It seems to me that Yasmin wasn’t cut out for a career in investment banking, given the numerous traumatic experiences she has faced this season. On the trading floor, she appears the most disoriented. Contrarily, she appears more at ease on a boat, even following her father’s unexpected jump overboard. Her talent for manipulation is undeniable, and I believe she will use it to her advantage in the future.

I’m overjoyed that the series has been extended for another season! Frankly, I was concerned that the showrunners had tied up so many plotlines so neatly in Season 2, I thought it might be the last of “Industry.” Did you share similar concerns?

Lawtey often finds Mickey [Down] and Konrad [Kay], the showrunners, to be consistently daring and innovative. They’re always ready to discard their best ideas and push themselves to create something intriguing, dynamic, and courageous. If they find themselves in a difficult spot, they’ll try to write their way out of it. I rarely doubt their decisions because they always seem to have a surprise up their sleeves, never saving anything for the final episodes or key moments. As we’ve seen throughout this season, no character is truly dead and death is not always permanent in this show. They skillfully utilize every aspect of each character.

As a dedicated fan, I must admit that the finale left me with a sense of closure, but not entirely unfamiliar feelings crept in. Just like at the end of Season 2 when Harper bid farewell to the bank, I couldn’t help but feel a shift in the narrative focus. In the first season, Harper’s journey was deeply intertwined with Pierpoint. If ‘Industry’ were to continue, it seemed less tied to Pierpoint and more about these characters breaking free from the confines of that establishment. It was like watching them break out of their shells, ready to soar.

Is it conceivable that there could be a “Workplace” with Yas based in England, Rob in San Francisco, Harper in New York, and so on?

Abela: I guess they’re probably not all in the same workplace. I don’t know where they’ll be.

The show has expanded significantly this season, encompassing broader aspects of the characters’ lives. I believe it’s accurate to say that the boys have dared to make more ambitious choices regarding the tone, style, and setting of the series, which aligns well with their character development. While the connections between them remain, they are being stretched and molded into new forms. This is thrilling for us, as we continue to reconsider and redefine how these characters interact with each other.

Marisa Abela, Harry Lawtey break down the 'Industry' finale's most shocking twist

Was there any sadness in saying goodbye to the Pierpoint set?

Abela shared that it was hard to let go of this fictional structure, which holds a significant part in their personal growth. The emotional attachment wasn’t just about departing from the building itself but also symbolizing the end of Season 3 and the series as a whole. The show has had a profound impact on them, and they feel deeply connected to each other. As a tribute, everyone gathered to witness Ken [Leung, playing Eric] perform his final actions. It felt like a special moment, as if we all grew up together in this makeshift trailer park.

It felt unique and significant to visit Ken and mark that space for us; it’s almost like a creative home throughout our acting careers, serving as our headquarters or “HQ.” The building where the trading floor was located remained standing even during the long breaks between seasons, making it odd to leave. In essence, it was a peculiar thing to step away from. Whenever I recall that room, I am reminded of the ensemble cast of the show. It’s been both a collective and a community that has evolved over time, but there’s been a core group that has remained constant. That space was their home, and we shared countless laughs and memorable moments there. Recently, I spoke with Ken, who mentioned that this season symbolizes the closing of one circle. Now, it’s about starting a new circle, I believe.

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2024-09-30 05:32

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