'A Gentleman in Moscow' Episode 5 Ending Explained: Alexander Rostov takes a drastic step amid Nina Kulikova's absence
Contain spoilers for 'A Gentleman in Moscow' Episode 5
MOSCOW, RUSSIA: 'A Gentleman in Moscow' is becoming increasingly intense with each episode, particularly following the arrival of Sophia (Billie Gadsdon).
In Episode 4, Nina Kulikova (Leah Balmforth) arrived at the Metropol Hotel to meet Count Alexander Ilyich Rostov (Ewan McGregor). She revealed that her husband had been sentenced to five years in jail, and she was considering following him, but she needed someone to care for her daughter.
The episode ended with Nina asking Rostov to look after her daughter, Sophia, until she could return, adding a new dimension to Rostov's life.
Episode 5 of 'A Gentleman in Moscow' begins with the aftermath of Nina's visit to Rostov. The episode explores how Rostov adjusts to his new role as a caregiver to Sophia, balancing her needs with his own daily routine and interactions within the Metropol Hotel.
Alexander Rostov struggles to take care of Sophia
In 'A Gentleman in Moscow' Episode 5, Rostov struggles to take care of Sophia in the confined world of the Metropol hotel. The authorities at the hotel are furious with Rostov for taking Sophia without permission, viewing his actions as a direct violation of the rules and regulations that govern life within the Metropol's walls.
Later on, the manager grants Rostov permission for Sophia to stay at the hotel for a month. However, there is a condition attached: after one month, Sophia must temporarily reside in a shelter until her mother arrives to take her.
However, as the one-month deadline approaches, there is still no sign of Nina's return. Rostov had trusted Nina's promise to return for Sophia, but as the days pass with no word from her, he starts to worry about her safety.
After a month, the hotel authorities approach Rostov and request that Sophia be moved to the shelter room. However, Sophia, who has grown attached to Rostov during their time together, expresses her strong reluctance to leave his side.
He tries to persuade Sophia gently, explaining the reasons for the arrangement and assuring her that she would have the opportunity to play with other children in the shelter room. Despite his efforts, Sophia remains adamant.
Alexander Rostov follows his heart, allows Sophia to live with him
As the episode progresses further, Rostov seeks the help of Anna Urbanova (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) to keep Sophia by his side. Rostov confides in her about his dilemma and asks for her help in finding a way to allow Sophia to remain with him at the Metropol Hotel.
As an actress, Ana decides to use her influence and connections to help Rostov and Sophia. She recalls a favor owed to her by one of the ministers and decides to reach out to him for help. He agrees wholeheartedly to help her.
When the adoption lady arrives, Rostov finds himself in a difficult situation. Later on, he tells the adoption lady that Sophia is his niece in order to keep her with him.
Rostov makes the bold and compassionate decision to officially take care of Sophia in Nina's absence.
In the last scene, viewers see Nina's lifeless body among many others in a mass grave, indicating a tragic and heartbreaking end to her story in the series.
'A Gentleman in Moscow' Episode 5 is now streaming on Paramount+ and Showtime.