Outer Banks season 4 episode 4 takes the show back to its roots in the best way (Review)

Outer Banks season 4 episode 4 takes the show back to its roots in the best way (Review)

As a die-hard fan of Outer Banks, I can confidently say that season 4 episode 4, “The Swell,” was nothing short of a rollercoaster ride of emotions. Growing up on those beautiful shores myself, I know all too well the allure of the ocean and the bond it forms with the people who live there.


The outer banks certainly are a unique place to grow up and live. And based on the way these North Carolina kids have grown up, of course they’re fans of the water and it’s a huge part of their lives. That’s why Outer Banks season 4 episode 4, “The Swell,” is a fitting title. And as the tides grew enough for the Kooks and Pogues to surf, so did the tension. Here’s our review of the episode on Netflix. SPOILERS BELOW.

Outer Banks season 4 episode 4 takes the show back to its roots in the best way (Review)

Good heavens! I think I’ve reached a new level of dislike for The Kooks each time, but they always manage to surprise me with something even more annoying. Today, being Swell Day – the perfect day to enjoy the beach and surfing, not to mention closing up shop – the remaining members of The Pogues decide to hit the beach instead. Using Cleo’s phone, Lightner and his crew text Pope as a ruse for their whereabouts.

To begin, let’s discuss the conflict between The Pogues and The Kooks. It’s disheartening to witness our beloved group of friends suffering, but it’s important to remember that this strain is deeply rooted in the narrative of Outer Banks since its earliest episodes in season 1. Over time, the rift has grown wider. However, things reached a critical point with Topper’s new girlfriend, Ruthie, who I personally find suspicious or even potentially psychopathic.

To put it plainly, they claim the Kooks aimed for tranquility, but positioning their belongings next to JJ, John B, Kiara, and Sarah seems unnecessary when there’s plenty of beach available elsewhere. It appears it’s more about asserting dominance. However, things were running smoothly until JJ accidentally knocked Topper off his surfboard. Given the circumstances, it’s likely Rafe and their friends would have provoked the Pogues anyway. Regrettably, JJ seems incapable of resisting such provocations, leading to his latest action.

Outer Banks season 4 episode 4 takes the show back to its roots in the best way (Review)

This leads to a heartbreaking and very tense scene where Ruthie almost runs over them with her car. This girl is crazy. And not knowing, there was a turtle hatch and she ran one of the baby turtles over. Ugh, my heart broke for Kie and for baby turtle. Ruthie and Topper don’t see what the big deal is, it was just one turtle out of the many that hatched. Ugh. Heartless Kooks, indeed.

When Kiara and JJ approach them, a girl is seen recording, and she captures JJ warning, “Step closer to her or any of us again, and I’ll return to eliminate all of you.” Oh dear, I can’t help but feel that his words will eventually lead to trouble for him.

Talking about ruthless Lightner, poor Cleo has been under his control for the entire day, showing no signs of remorse as he’s willing to harm even young adults such as our beloved treasure seekers. When Cleo contacts Pope and requests the amulet, Pope’s hasty return home was quite an exciting scene. Naturally, there were numerous challenges that arose on his path to reach Cleo.

Outer Banks season 4 episode 4 takes the show back to its roots in the best way (Review)

He does, but a few seconds too late. Terrance, thankfully, is on Cleo’s side and is trying to help her. Again, my heart broke because in doing so he ends up dying. RIP Terrance. You were a real one, truly. And as if this day couldn’t get any worse, when the rest of the Pogues come back home and learn what happened, they find Shoupe coming their way. The problem? Terrance’s dead body is still on the floor and they’re going to need to come up with an explanation. Fast. Or, hide the body.

In episode 4 of season 4, “Outer Banks” was simply delightful and managed to bring the show back to its original essence. If you recall, season 1 had the Kooks versus the Pogues and the palpable tension between them, the characters basking in the sun and sea, John B and his companions embarking on a perilous treasure hunt, and even Pope receiving assistance from his former history teacher Mr. Sunn. It all came together to evoke the very elements that won our hearts when we first started watching the series. Grade level: 7th-8th grade

The second part of Outer Banks Season 4 will debut on Netflix on Thursday, November 7, 2024. Don’t forget to catch up on the reviews for the first part of OBX Season 4 too!

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2024-10-10 13:28

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