'A Gentleman in Moscow' Episode 5 Takeaway: Nina Kulikova's death leaves Sophia's future uncertain
Spoilers for 'A Gentleman in Moscow' Episode 5
MOSCOW, RUSSIA: 'A Gentleman in Moscow' Episode 5 delves into the evolving friendship between Alexander Rostov (Ewan McGregor) and Sophia (Billie Gadsdon) amid Nina Kulikova's (Leah Balmforth) absence.
With only three episodes remaining, the likelihood grows that Rostov may assume a parental role for Nina's daughter.
In Episode 5 of 'A Gentleman in Moscow,' viewers are offered a deeper look into Rostov's daily life within the confines of the Metropol Hotel, highlighting the profound impact Sophia's presence has on him. However, Episode 5 also features a drastic revelation that could affect Rostov and Sophia's lives.
There's a lot to uncover in 'A Gentleman in Moscow' Episode 5. So, let's jump in!
Alexander Rostov makes a bold decision in Nina Kulikova's absence in Episode 5
In Episode 5 of 'A Gentleman in Moscow,' Rostov faces challenges as he tries to care for Sophia within the confines of the Metropol hotel.
His decision to take Sophia without permission angers the hotel authorities, who see Rostov's actions as wrong.
He meets with the manager to explain the circumstances surrounding his decision to take Sophia.
Rostov explains that Nina's husband has been sentenced to five years in jail, leaving her in need of someone to care for their daughter, Sophia, during her absence.
Eventually, the manager agrees to allow Sophia to stay at the hotel for a month under Rostov's care.
However, after a month passes without Nina's return, Rostov takes full responsibility for Sophia. He informs the authorities that she is his niece, assuming the role of her guardian.
This decision could have a profound impact on Rostov and Sophia's lives. While Rostov is unable to leave due to his house arrest, Sophia, being a young child, has a natural curiosity and need to experience the outside world.
It raises questions about how Rostov will provide support to Sophia, given his inability to leave the hotel.
While the Metropol Hotel offers a vibrant environment, it remains a confined space that may restrict Sophia's experiences and opportunities for growth.
Rostov may need to work diligently to secure permission from the authorities for Sophia's education, as there are limited options for her to receive schooling within the confines of the hotel.
In the upcoming episode, Rostov might turn to Anna Urbanova (played by Mary Elizabeth Winstead) for a favor, seeking her assistance in obtaining permission from the authorities to enable Sophia's education.
Being an actress, Anna has many sources of connections. She may be able to use her network to reach influential people who can help secure permission for Sophia's education.
Where is Nina Kulikova?
As time goes on, Sophia begins to miss Nina more and more, leading her to frequently inquire of Rostov whether her mother will ever return.
Rostov remains unaware of Nina's whereabouts. His inability to provide answers to Sophia's questions about her mother only heightens his tension, leaving him feeling helpless.
In the last scene of Episode 5, viewers are stunned to discover Nina's body in a mass grave, indicating her tragic death. However, neither Sophia nor Rostov is aware of the circumstances surrounding her death.
In the upcoming episode, Rostov and Sophia may come to confront this harsh truth. However, their attempts to uncover the circumstances of Nina's death may be unsuccessful due to Rostov's inability to leave the hotel.
The authorities' potential involvement in Nina's death could suggest a larger scheme to suppress dissent and maintain control.
It appears that Nina might have been actively protesting her husband's arrest, perhaps advocating for his release or expressing her dissatisfaction with the authorities. In response, the authorities may have taken drastic measures that ultimately led to her tragic death.
'A Gentleman in Moscow' Episode 5 is now streaming on Paramount+ and Showtime