Justified: Season 3, Episode 13 “Slaughterhouse” (A-)
This show sure knows how to end its seasons. Among the episode's best scenes were Limehouse and Boyd severing ties on the bridge and Raylan playing Fogle's Russian roulette game with Duffy. It was crucial for all of its arcs to be brought to at least a semi-neat close, and that’s just what this hour did, and then some. Quarles seemed to know his time was up, trying to make peace with his enemies back home and figure a way to get out of wretched Kentucky. His escape plan involved FX alum Cathy Cahlin Ryan, real-life wife of “The Shield” creator Shawn Ryan and onscreen wife of its lead, Michael Chiklis, as a scared mother whose children were taken by Quarles. Calling Raylan and having him come out to drive him to Limehouse’s was a smart idea, and he even managed to find that elusive money. Quarles got exactly what he deserved, literally disarmed by Limehouse and Raylan, a phrase that is sure to be immortalized, dying maniacally as he revealed that Arlo was the one that shot the state trooper. Ava got pretty passionate when she thought that Boyd was going to jail, whereas he seemed truthfully dejected yet accepting of his fate. Arlo taking the fall for Devil’s murder was unexpected, and it allows Boyd to roam free while locking up a character who clearly poses a danger to more than just himself. Leave it to this show to save the most heart-wrenching information for last: Arlo didn’t realize he was a state trooper, he was just shooting at a man that was trying to hurt Boyd. It’s a melancholy note to go out on, and an excellent way to close a terrific season. Having Neal McDonough and Mykelti Williamson on board for this year was well worth it, and I do hope that they both reap Emmy nominations this summer. I’ve read that Eric Stonestreet from “Modern Family” may be next on the list for season four, and I absolutely can’t wait.
Season grade: A-
Season MVP: Neal McDonough
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