Episode 4 Recap: "Foolish Are the Peacemakers"

In Episode 4 of “The Slap,” titled “Foolish Are the Peacemakers,” we see Manolis (played by Brian Cox), Hector’s dad and a retired coffee salesman, catching up with an old buddy, Nikos, who’s a savvy lawyer working in a high-rise. Manolis asks if he can take on Harry’s case against Rosie and Gary, and Nikos agrees, but not without suggesting that Manolis should find himself a mistress for some fun—after all, “pleasure and victory is all that matters.” But Manolis isn’t interested in that lifestyle; he’s more concerned about his sick friend Dimitris and the family drama unfolding around him.

Tense Family Dynamics

Koula and Manolis host a tense Sunday lunch for the family. Harry questions Hector about Aisha’s loyalty, and Hector points out that since Rosie is Aisha’s best friend, she’s likely not going to support Harry’s side. Meanwhile, Sandy, looking pale and anxious, flits around the kitchen, making us wonder what her life is like after the slap incident.

Nikos’ Plan

Nikos calls a meeting with Harry, Hector, and Manolis to unveil a plan to discredit Rosie, Gary, and their son Hugo. He’s uncovered some dirt on Gary and a social services dispute involving Rosie. Manolis quickly realizes that Nikos is gearing up for a character assassination. Despite his attempts to back out, Harry is thrilled to have Nikos on his team and refuses to let him go. “I can fix this,” Manolis says, feeling a sense of dread about what he’s set in motion. “You already lost,” Hector retorts.

The D.A. Meeting

Later, Rosie and Gary meet with the D.A., who points out that a single slap isn’t a major crime unless they can prove Harry is habitually violent. All eyes turn to Aisha—will she spill that Harry has physically abused his wife?

A Desperate Plea

In a panic, Manolis visits Aisha at her clinic, where he notices Connie’s feelings for Hector. He pleads with Aisha to convince Rosie to drop the case, but she reveals that Harry has a history of abusing Sandy and she refuses to cover for him anymore.

Confronting Harry

Desperate for answers, Manolis visits Harry’s car dealership, where Harry lies through his teeth about his violent past. Blinded by family loyalty, Manolis believes him, showcasing his tragic flaw—his unwavering faith that he can protect his family despite the chaos he’s helped create. Like King Lear, he fails to see the dangers right in front of him, and his attempts to shield his loved ones only intensify the storm.

A Moment with Dimitris

Manolis then visits Dimitris, who is nearing the end of his life. They share a drink and do a little Greek dance, showing how the once-mighty kings have become foolish in their old age. Dimitris wisely advises, “You must act your age, Manu, and not try so hard,” highlighting the gap between the ideal of a wise family head and the harsh reality.

Conclusion

In summary, Episode 4 delves into family loyalty, the consequences of blind faith, and the lengths one will go to protect loved ones, all while revealing the folly of trying to control situations spiraling out of hand.

Episode 4 Recap: “Foolish Are the Peacemakers”