Grotesquerie episode 2 recap: The killer tricks Lois, Sister Megan finds connections

As a seasoned crime journalist with years of experience under my belt, I find myself intrigued by this latest series, “Grotesquerie.” The interplay between Father Charlie and Sister Megan, both seemingly entangled in their own secrets, adds an interesting dynamic to the narrative. It’s reminiscent of a classic cat-and-mouse game, albeit one cloaked in religious garb.

The newest horror show to debut this week is FX on Hulu’s Grotesquerie, created by Ryan Murphy, Jon Robin Baitz, and Joe Baken. As we head into October and horror fans are looking to get their fix ahead of Halloween, I’m sure I wasn’t alone in tuning in for the first two episodes which premiered on Wednesday, Sept. 25. The premise is interesting enough, but will this murder mystery hold our attention all season long? I’m unsure.

In the first episode of “Grotesquerie”, I, a troubled detective named Lois Tryon, am thrown into a chilling tale. Living with my daughter, I’m juggling the weight of my alcoholism, complicated by the comatose state of my estranged husband. As a series of gruesome murders rock my town, I turn to an unusual ally: a tenacious nun journalist.

WARNING: Major spoilers for Grotesquerie episode 2 are below.

Episode 2 begins with a flashback showing a tense discussion at home between Lois, Marshall, and Merritt. Marshall expresses worry over Merritt’s health issues like high blood pressure and weight gain, suggesting she visit a treatment center. This suggestion angers Merritt, leaving Marshall annoyed that Lois doesn’t join the conversation. Marshall then accuses Lois of alcohol abuse, to which she retorts they all need rehab – for Merritt’s eating habits, her drinking problem, and Marshall’s issues with sex addiction. This statement catches Marshall off guard, and Lois reveals she knows about his infidelities. She throws him out, but not before telling him she sometimes wishes he were dead.

What’s going on with Nurse Redd?

At the hospital, Lois is found sobbing outside Marshall’s room. When Nurse Redd notices her, she advises Lois to save her tears for when she can be with Marshall, pushing Lois over the edge. In anger, Lois feels like confronting Nurse Redd physically, but security intervenes. Later on, Lois witnesses Nurse Redd giving Marshall a sponge bath in his room, which appears inappropriate to Lois. She storms into the room and demands an explanation, only for Nurse Redd to feign innocence and accuse Lois of being unwell for her suggestion. Lois labels Nurse Redd as a sexual predator, leading to an argument between them.

Grotesquerie episode 2 recap: The killer tricks Lois, Sister Megan finds connections

At home, Lois spends time going through editions of The Catholic Guardian while sipping on a drink. When Merritt enters, she shares information about Sister Megan with her mother. Merritt then takes out a sliced ham and starts eating it, feeling self-conscious about her mom’s perceived judgment of her eating habits. She suggests that her mom should consider retiring, but Lois is firm in her determination to solve the murders. Lois subsequently ponders if perhaps the murderer might have some connection to the university, a theory she then pursues.

As a detective in this virtual game, I’ve instructed my team to scour the exterior of the house for any overlooked DNA evidence and untested blood samples. There might be a crucial clue hidden in plain sight that will help us nab our elusive killer. Next, I paid a visit to Sister Megan, sharing my theory with her. However, she’s skeptical about my approach. She shows me her investigation board and explains that her intuition suggests the murderer isn’t someone from the family circle. They aren’t a student or educator, nor do they live a typical daily life. Instead, she believes our killer is a devout preacher who considers himself a higher power – perhaps even God in disguise.

Father Charlie and Sister Megan

Sister Megan regularly attends church where she listens to Father Charlie (Nicholas Chavez) deliver a sermon. Afterward, they often go out for meals together, hinting at a unique bond between them. There seems to be a hint of affection developing, although it’s important to note that romantic relationships are not allowed in their profession. Father Charlie appreciates Sister Megan’s journalism skills and invites her to address the congregation once the murders under investigation have been solved. Father Charlie confesses to being fascinated by true crime, even mentioning his favorite serial killer – Ed Gein, a character featured in the third season of Murphy’s Monster. They engage in discussions about the case and its religious implications, with Father Charlie suspecting Satanists may be responsible for the crimes.

In a later scene, Father Charlie retreats to his private quarters where we observe some scarring on his back. Upon completing this private act, he self-flagellates as a form of penance.

Grotesquerie episode 2 recap: The killer tricks Lois, Sister Megan finds connections

In a conversation, Sister Megan informs Lois that she plans to write an article about her recent focus, which is Satanism. However, Lois is uncertain about this and advises Sister Megan not to publish anything at this time. She then shares that they have identified a lead in a case – a trace of blood found on the sidewalk outside the Burnside residence. They are en route to speak with a man named Sullivan Firkus, who was recently released from prison after nine months. Lois agrees to provide Sister Megan with the details and the story, but wonders why Sister Megan is assisting her. Lois suggests that she’s taking advantage of Sister Megan’s interest in the religious aspect.

As a devoted fan, I’d rephrase the scene like this:

This is a long game for the killer

Later on, Lois describes the events that transpired. Sullivan has been deceased for several weeks now, and his DNA was strategically placed at the Burnside residence to alert the authorities. Mother Firkus, who is still alive, is escorted out of the house where she reads a biblical passage. Lois further discloses that the perpetrator left a telltale sign – a note bearing the name “Grotesquerie” in script. Following this revelation, Lois starts drinking heavily.

During their drive home, Lois hands some money to a homeless individual. There appears to be writing on his collection cup, yet Lois doesn’t seem to pay attention. Upon reaching home, Lois presents Merritt with a box discovered at the crime scene, hoping she can unlock it, but she fails. Later, Lois dozes off on the couch only to be awakened by a record abruptly stopping. A figure is spotted moving around in their house, causing Lois to retrieve her gun and investigate cautiously. Ultimately, she gives up and retreats to her bed.

Whilst in prayer, Lois gets a call about additional murders and rushes to the church. Sister Megan arrives and notices everyone in a state of stunned silence. The murder victims are arranged on the altar, mimicking The Last Supper. Lois reveals to Sister Megan that the man portrayed as Jesus is a homeless individual she often helps, adding that all 12 individuals on the altar are homeless. Leaving the church, Lois mentions she’s heading home for some drinks.

Don’t miss out on the third installment of Grotesquerie, airing next Wednesday, October 2nd, on FX. If you can’t wait until then, catch up on new episodes a day early on Hulu starting Thursday.

2024-09-26 16:28