Graphic Designer
After taking a season three detour in Ireland, the members of The Sons of Anarchy Motorcycle Club, Redwood Original (SAMCRO) are back in Charming, Calif., as FX’s critically acclaimed Sons of Anarchy returns for a riveting fourth season.
The season opens with the club members leaving prison after a 14-month stint for their actions in Ireland. Initially, the club’s cohesion seems to be intact, but soon, major conflicts arise. In addition to running guns, SAMCRO gets involved in running cocaine for the cartel, a major risk that is spearheaded by Clay’s (Ron Perlman) avaricious desire to rake in more income. This leads to inner club tension, especially from Piney (William Lucking) and Bobby (Mark Boone Jr.), and the notes of John Teller start to become a more prominent factor in the story as they uncover truths that many of the club members are unaware of.
To make matters worse, there is a brand-new sheriff in town after Wayne Unser had to step down due to medical reasons. SAMCRO may have had Wayne on their payroll, but his replacement, Eli Roosevelt (Rockmond Dunbar), makes it clear he will not condone the club’s illegal activities as he immediately forbids any paroled members from wearing their cuts. More importantly, he teams up with a U.S. government agent to make a legitimate case against the corruption of SAMCRO.
This season can be defined as a rigid path of uncertainty and clash between all of the characters. The unity that was present in the previous seasons is dwindling at a frightening rate.
Jax (Charlie Hunnman) wants to leave the club and move his family out of Charming. Juice (Theo Rossi) is conflicted when Eli blackmails him with exposing evidence to the club that his father is black (something not accepted in the club). Piney is threatening to expose John Teller’s notes to the club. There is serious upheaval that will keep viewers on their toes.
The grit and intensity that comes with most FX series is prominent in Sons of Anarchy. Throttling motorcycle chases, gun fights and even Russian roulette are just some of the elements this season.
It’s uncertain what exactly will happen within the club, but the storytelling is gripping and each character has some stake in the grand scheme. With a recent renewal for a fifth season, Sons of Anarchy will remain one of the most compelling shows on TV.
Matt Vaghi may be reached at mvaghi@springfieldcollege.edu