The latest episode of Dark Winds, titled “Chahalheel” (Darkness Falls), brought a shocking conclusion with its fourth episode finale. The storyline unfolds with Joe Leaphorn, played by Zahn McClarnon, admitting to his wife Emma (Deanna Allison) about his involvement in B.J. Vines’ death. This revelation leaves Joe alone at the police station, where he volunteers for the night watch. The night turns grim as the power flickers and the suspect, Halsey (Phil Burke), meets a gruesome end under mysterious circumstances.
Meanwhile, Bernadette Manuelito, portrayed by Jessica Matten, finds herself facing a life-changing decision. Positioned miles away, she acknowledges that she has fallen under the radar of a criminal organization, warned by Chee (Kiowa Gordon). The allure of a new beginning has drawn Bernadette away from the Navajo reservation to work with the U.S. Border Patrol. Here, she also encounters her new partner and love interest, Ivan (Alex Meraz).
Bernadette’s New Path
The Hollywood Reporter converses with Jessica Matten, who delves into her character’s significant journey this season, including the complexities of her relationships, both personal and professional. Matten, a Canadian actor, offers insights into how breaking from the familiar to prove one’s worth resonates with Bernadette’s character. This evolution is critical to understanding Bernadette’s bold choices and pursuing a career nearly 500 miles away from her roots.
Matten emphasizes Bernadette’s desire to carve an independent life, amid the challenges of being a woman striving to break glass ceilings. Although gratitude remains for Joe Leaphorn’s role as a savior and mentor, Bernadette’s urge to explore life independently frames her dramatic decisions this season.
Relationship Dynamics and Professional Challenges
Dark Winds introduces a touching dynamic as Bernadette reconnects with Chee, only to lean towards Ivan. This storyline, enriched by Matten’s portrayal, showcases the inner turmoil stemming from past traumas and desires, exploring human nature’s complex essence. Matten explains Bernadette’s inclination towards risk and association with Ivan, acknowledging Chee as belonging in a part of her heart. The casting of Alex Meraz, along with Kiowa Gordon, revives their Twilight legacy, cleverly enhancing the plot’s depth.
Professionally, Bernadette is unyielding in her determination, steadfast against authoritative advice, and follows her instincts to investigate a shady businessman. This exploration is part of Bernadette’s evolving narrative, reflecting the empowerment Matten finds in portraying a Native character whose romantic life unfolds authentically on screen.
Guiding Influence of Joe Leaphorn
The character dynamics are further explored as Bernadette navigates situations with influence from Leaphorn, whose fearlessness inspires her bold career moves. Her investigative instincts recall Leaphorn’s fortitude against powerful adversaries. This inspiration draws Bernadette into scenarios beyond her norm, challenging yet exciting to portray on screen, leaving a memorable mark on the audience.
While Bernadette embraces unfamiliar environments, such as lavish estates, her grounded roots echo through her investigative tenacity. Although sometimes outmatched due to impulsive decisions, Bernadette’s character remains resolute, a testament to Matten’s dedicated portrayal.
Supernatural Elements and Cultural Beliefs
The episode’s climax with Halsey’s inexplicable demise hints at darker forces possibly at play, facets Bernadette readily accepts with her superstition and cultural grounding. If present, Bernadette would align spiritual guidance with rational strategies, emphasizing a deep connection to tradition amidst modern challenges. This intertwining of belief systems offers a compelling narrative twist for viewers and deepens the show’s thematic essence.
As the season unfurls, Bernadette’s evolving story arc suggests potential reunions and ventures home, enticing viewers to engage with her journey’s unpredictability.
Context of Bernadette’s Journey
Jessica Matten, reflecting on her personal and professional journey, shares her gratitude for being part of a show that offers such significant representation, especially as Dark Winds garners critical acclaim and secures a fourth season. Sharing insights into the backdrop of her career, Matten acknowledges the indigenous influence of Canadian media, alongside the burgeoning recognition of Native culture in the U.S.
Highlighting the inclusivity at Dark Winds, Matten celebrates the creative freedom afforded, permitting her to explore complex, multidimensional roles far beyond clichéd stereotypes. This liberation resonates with broader themes of unity and resilience reflected in both her career and character arc, amid the complex political landscapes woven into the show’s narrative fabric.
Matten’s dedication to authenticity and hard work underscores her personal ethos. Through Jessica Matten, Bernadette’s role transcends screens, echoing empowerment and representation, making profound strides in how Native stories are told and celebrated. This exploration propels Dark Winds into a unique creative space, demanding viewer engagement and ushering in a new era of storytelling.
