Things slowed down in How to Get Away with Murder’s episode Thursday as Annalise and the others dealt with the effects of Nate Sr.’s murder. Here are the top moments from the episode:
Annalise declared war on the governor
Following the death of Nate’s dad, Annalise (Viola Davis) had a clear suspect. She realized the governor had misled her before and agreed to a deal she never intended to carry out. The governor only worsened things when she told Annalise their collaborative project wouldn’t work out because of the negative press surrounding the murder. Furious, Annalise expressed to the governor that she couldn’t wait to take her down.
With such an explosive argument, the two are surely now enemies and will fight for the rest of the season. The governor mentioned adoption records she had that could destroy Annalise, so they will likely come into play at some point. But, if bets were being placed, Annalise would undoubtedly win.
Michaela and Gabriel hooked up
Gabriel (Rome Flynn) has been incredibly suspicious all season. First, there were questions as to whether he was Bonnie (Liza Weil)’s son. Now, Laurel (Karla Souza) and Frank (Charlie Weber) spy on him in his apartment while constantly mentioning a secret. Apparently, Michaela (Aja Naomi King) isn’t too afraid of him, as she hooked up with him after going to Asher (Matt McGorry)’s. Gabriel first flirted with Laurel, but now he’s moved to Michaela, and there’s much more to uncover about him.
The episode tackled many important issues
When confronting the governor about Nate’s father’s death, Annalise mentioned the fact that it was easy for the governor to blame him for his own death. She said that is what’s happened since the beginning of time, African-Americans being blamed. Later in court, Annalise vehemently argued about the mistreatment African-Americans have faced through all of America’s history. It was easy to blame them because they weren’t in power and didn’t have anyone to believe them. Both scenes were very well done and were actually pitched by Viola Davis herself.
Later in the episode, the reason why Connor (Jack Falahee) had so many bruises on his face in the flash-forward was revealed. While celebrating together, Connor and Oliver (Conrad Ricamora) kissed and a passerby called them a homophobic slur. Connor proceeded to get into a fist fight with the man as Oliver screamed for help. For some viewers, the scene may have been the very first time they saw the homophobic slur be used and the effects it can have. Later, Connor and Oliver had a poignant talk about how people like that only perpetuate hate and don’t really get to know and understand what it’s like to be gay. The scene was extremely raw and portrayed what it’s like to be a gay couple in modern America. The show has always been a strong advocate for social issues, but this scene really captured how some viewers may be feeling in America’s current political climate.
As How to Get Away with Murder prepares for the midseason finale, audiences can expect a drama-filled, emotional ride, ending with the identity of the victim at Connor and Oliver’s wedding.
How To Get Away With Murder airs Thursdays at 10 p.m. on ABC.
