'Presumed Innocent' Episode 4: Barbara uses sex as an escape, but closer to home shadows deepen
Contains spoilers for 'Presumed Innocent'
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: The legal world of Apple TV+'s 'Presumed Innocent' successfully keep viewers on the edge of their seats with its interesting twists and turns.
The series features Rusty Sabich (Jake Gyllenhaal), a reputable prosecutor who is on a mission to establish his innocence after being accused of killing his colleague and secret lover, Carolyn Polhemus (Renate Reinsve).
The series, the creative brainchild of David E Kelley, also showed the other side of the story, with Rusty's family, particularly his wife Barbara Sabich (Ruth Negga), grappling with the shocking revelation but choosing to stand by her husband's side, supporting him although the man betrayed her.
However, as the series progresses to its fourth episode, it becomes evident that Barbara is letting her guard down and is ready to let herself go, as she interacts with barman Clifton (Sarunas J Jackson).
Barbara Sabich seeks solace away from Rusty Sabich in 'Presumed Innocent' Episode 4
Following the heated exchange between Barbara and Rusty, the man blames her for their marital problems, emphasizing his defective and narcissistic personality.
Barbara rushes out of the room, indicating she has had enough of her husband's harsh demeanor.
Later, she finds herself at the bar, and this time she learns that the bartender's name is Clifton. Both indulged in the cocktails, and it was clear that they both enjoyed each other's company.
Her therapist advised Barbara to let go of her roles as wife and mother to keep her own individuality. She makes it clear that Barbar is acting in self-defense to protect her family, which may be accompanied by wrath and resentment.
Later when Rusty contacted her, she reluctantly said, "I love you", to him and continued the date with Clifton, who then gave her his phone number.
In the episode, Barbara and Rusty also shared a love-making session but it was clear that all Barbara wanted was to preserve her marriage and often feels lonely in their marriage.
Will Barbara Sabich be pursuing an affair with Clifton?
Now, it is clear that Barbara is doing her best not to disappoint her family, as even after learning about Rusty's affair, she continues to support him, but Rusty's blame game occasionally lets her down, which may be affecting her mental health, as suggested by the therapist.
In future episodes, the development of tensions caused by Rusty's behavior may drive Barbara to reconsider her priorities and needs, which have already begun to occur as she seeks emotional fulfillment outside their marriage.
Barbara's meeting with Clifton at the bar suggests an emotional connection, which complicates her emotions for Rusty.
This might exacerbate her relationship with Rusty, since his narcissistic tendencies may make it difficult for him to empathize with Barbara's sentiments or comprehend the ramifications of his actions on their marriage.
Overall, Rusty's blaming behavior may set off a cycle of emotional distancing and seeking assistance elsewhere for Barbara, potentially extending their gap and starting an affair with Clifton.
How to stream 'Presumed Innocent'?
If you have an Apple TV+ membership, you can watch the series that will take you to the fascinating world of courtroom drama.
Apple TV+ has a monthly subscription price of $9.99 that includes access to the platform's original shows and films.
'Presumed Innocent' trailer