“The Blacklist” concludes its thrilling run with a long-awaited finale

”The Blacklist” checks off its final name with an overdue series finale

By

July 14, 2023

After eight seasons, NBC’s crime drama “The Blacklist” has finally come to a close with a two-part series finale, titled “Raymond Reddington.” While the show had long overstayed its welcome, the finale managed to provide viewers with a definitive ending, even if it was overdue. Despite its decline in quality over the years, “The Blacklist” succeeded in delivering a reasonably satisfying conclusion to the story of the enigmatic master criminal, Raymond “Red” Reddington, portrayed brilliantly by James Spader.

The Demise of Raymond Reddington

In the finale, Reddington finds himself engaged in another high-stakes game of cat and mouse with the FBI task force that he had provided names to for several years. His character, known for his cunning and manipulation, ultimately sacrifices his chance for escape in order to save the life of his trusted friend and associate, Dembe.

Dembe’s poignant discussion about Reddington being “at peace with death” serves as a foreshadowing of his serene yet somewhat undignified demise. The scene is accompanied by the Bob Dylan song “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door,” playing in the background, an apt choice given the context of the show, which revolves around the world of notorious criminals and their inevitable fate. In an unexpected twist, Reddington meets his end by the horns of a bull in Spain, accepting his fate just as his former FBI contact, Donald Ressler, closes in on him.

Adding to the dramatic conclusion, the producers included a Spanish-language version of “My Way,” further emphasizing Reddington’s determination to live and die on his own terms, as reflected in his eccentric choice of executioner.

Fading Glory and Legacy

As “The Blacklist” bids farewell, it is evident that the show had long lost its former glory. While its initial success captivated audiences and inspired a wave of similar crime dramas, it had become a mere shadow of its former self. However, much credit is due to James Spader, whose portrayal of Reddington injected mystery and intrigue into the early seasons. Spader’s captivating performance and the exploration of his character’s enigmatic motivations were undoubtedly the driving force behind the show’s initial appeal.

Despite the decline of its plotlines and overall quality, “The Blacklist” managed to tie up loose ends, allowing Reddington’s story to come to a close. The fate of the task force, although somewhat ambiguous, is a minor consideration in the grand scheme of things.

Editorial: When Should a Show Bid Farewell?

In the case of “The Blacklist,” it is evident that the show overstayed its welcome. The decision to continue the series after the departure of Megan Boone’s character, Liz Keen, in 2021 was a questionable one. While it is understandable that networks and producers are often reluctant to let go of successful shows, there comes a point where quality should take precedence over financial gains.

Continuing a show past its prime not only risks tarnishing its legacy but also deprives viewers of a satisfactory conclusion. It is crucial for producers and networks to recognize when it is time to gracefully exit the stage, rather than cling onto a fading formula.

However, it is important to note that finding the perfect time to end a show is not an exact science. The delicate balance between exiting on a high note and leaving audiences wanting more can be challenging to achieve. A premature ending can leave fans disappointed and longing for closure, while an overstayed welcome can lead to a decline in quality and viewer disinterest.

The Importance of a Satisfying Conclusion

The finale of a long-running series holds great significance. It is the last opportunity for writers and creators to leave a lasting impression, to tie up loose ends, and to provide a sense of closure to the characters and stories that viewers have invested in.

While “The Blacklist” may have struggled in its later seasons, it deserves credit for delivering an ending that, in its own way, wraps up the central narrative. By checking off the one name that truly mattered, Raymond Reddington, the show offers a conclusive resolution to his story, even if the journey to get there was long and sometimes meandering.

Advice for Future Series Finales

In light of “The Blacklist” finale, there are valuable lessons that can be learned for future series finales. It is crucial for creators and writers to plan ahead and establish a clear endpoint for their shows from the beginning. This allows for a more cohesive narrative and prevents unnecessary plotlines and character arcs that dilute the overall impact of the story.

Additionally, it is essential to listen to the audience and gauge their level of engagement and interest in the show. While it is tempting to continue a successful series for as long as possible, maintaining a balance between providing satisfying resolutions and leaving room for speculation and discussion is key.

Ultimately, the decision to end a show should prioritize artistic integrity and the satisfaction of the viewers over financial considerations. A well-crafted finale has the power to leave a lasting impression on audiences and solidify a show’s place in television history.

As “The Blacklist” comes to a close, it serves as a reminder that all good things must eventually reach their conclusion. While the show may have overstayed its welcome, it managed to deliver an ending that, amidst its flaws, provided closure to the characters and storylines that viewers had invested in. May it serve as a lesson for future series finales and a reminder of the importance of knowing when to bid farewell.