Netflix's You Season 4: Was The Wait Worth It?

Viktoria Ivanova

4 min read

Post on May 31, 2025

4.8

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A New Setting, New Challenges

Season 4 of You marks a significant departure, transporting Joe Goldberg from sunny California to the rain-soaked streets of London. This change of scenery isn't merely a cosmetic shift; it fundamentally alters the narrative landscape. The move to London provides a fresh backdrop, impacting Joe's actions and the types of targets he pursues.

• A New Hunting Ground: The sophisticated and affluent social circles of London offer Joe a different kind of prey, challenging him in ways he hasn't experienced before. The cultural nuances and social dynamics of London present a complex web of relationships for Joe to manipulate.

• Elevated Stakes: The anonymous nature of a large city like London initially allows Joe to operate more freely, yet the higher density of people also increases the risk of exposure and complicates his attempts to maintain control. This creates a thrilling and unpredictable narrative.

• New Characters, New Games: London introduces a compelling cast of new characters, each with their own secrets and agendas, adding layers of complexity to Joe's already tangled web of manipulation. These new characters are vital to the season's central mystery and present fresh challenges for our anti-hero.

Joe Goldberg's Evolution (or Lack Thereof)

One of the central questions surrounding You Season 4 is whether Joe Goldberg undergoes any significant character development. While the setting changes, does Joe himself truly evolve?

• Same Old Joe?: Despite the new environment, Joe's core personality remains largely unchanged. His manipulative tendencies and obsessive behaviors are as potent as ever. His capacity for violence and disregard for human life continues to be a defining trait.

• Motivations Remain Consistent: Joe's motivations, though masked in different contexts, are fundamentally the same: a desire for control, power, and a twisted version of love. The superficial changes in his targets don't alter his underlying psychological profile.

• Relationships as Tools: Joe's relationships continue to serve as tools for manipulation and self-gratification. He uses charm and deception to gain the trust of those around him, ultimately using them to further his own selfish goals.

The Mystery and the Twists

You Season 4 hinges on a compelling mystery, interwoven with several shocking plot twists. But do these elements succeed in keeping the audience engaged?

• Surprising Twists, or Calculated Reveals?: While the season includes several twists and turns, their impact varies. Some are genuinely surprising, while others feel somewhat predictable, particularly for seasoned viewers familiar with Joe's modus operandi.

• Suspenseful Pacing: The mystery unfolds at a deliberate pace, building tension effectively in some parts but occasionally lagging in others. The creators successfully employ red herrings, distracting the viewer and adding layers to the mystery, although some may find the pacing inconsistent.

• Satisfying Resolution?: The resolution of the central mystery is controversial. While the conclusion offers a definitive answer, some viewers might find it slightly unsatisfying, prompting further debate.

The Performances and Production Quality

The success of You is intrinsically tied to its performances and overall production value. Season 4 continues the high standard set by previous seasons.

• Penn Badgley's Masterclass: Penn Badgley continues to deliver a captivating performance as Joe Goldberg. His nuanced portrayal of a charming yet deeply disturbed individual is the heart of the show.

• Strong Supporting Cast: The supporting cast shines, particularly the new additions to the London-based cast. Each character is well-developed and contributes significantly to the season's narrative.

• High Production Value: From the cinematography to the music, the production value remains consistently high. The visual style is meticulously crafted, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

Conclusion: Was the Wait Worth It?

You Season 4 offers a mixed bag. While the change of setting and introduction of new characters bring fresh elements, Joe Goldberg's unchanging nature and occasionally predictable plot twists might leave some viewers wanting more. The strong performances and high production value remain consistent strengths, but ultimately, whether the wait was "worth it" depends on individual expectations. Some aspects surpassed expectations, while others fell slightly short. The suspense, thrilling moments, and intense character dynamics are undeniable aspects that should still please dedicated fans.

Ultimately, was the wait for Netflix's You Season 4 worth it? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! Have you binged You Season 4 yet? Share your review and tell us what you thought of the latest installment of this gripping thriller. Join the conversation and let's discuss whether this season of You lived up to the hype!