'The Regime' Episode 4 Takeaway: Herbert Zubak and Elena Vernham reunite with a passionate kiss
Contains spoilers for 'The Regime' episode 4
CENTRAL EUROPE, EUROPE: Created by Will Tracy, HBO's ongoing miniseries 'The Regime' depicts the story of a power struggle faced by the head of a nation while trying to retain her grip on power.
The series is set in a hypothetical European country where, Elena Vernham (Kate Winslet), is beginning to lose her hold on power due to her worsening mental health and her anxiety over inheriting a lung ailment.
She appoints former soldier Herbert Zubak (Matthias Schoenaerts) as her advisor while navigating the exercise of her authority over the nation.
In the third episode, Elena realizes that Herbert's overly optimistic counsel is making her situation worse. As his violent actions and deceptive maneuvers come to light, she publicly humiliates him before having him imprisoned.
Herbert's arrest in the previous episode suggested that Elena may have found a new foe in someone who was once a committed supporter. However, the latest episode reveals a dramatic change in the dynamics between them.
Herbert Zubak meets with former Chancellor Edward Keplinger in Episode 4
After four months in prison, the disgraced soldier is seen constantly tuning in to Elena's radio interviews, which he finds rather aggravating.
Initially, it becomes evident that he harbors animosity towards Elena when he requests the prison guards to lower the volume of the radio, only to receive a brutal beating in return.
Later, it is revealed that he is transported by the guards to an unexpected encounter, where he is surprised to find former chancellor Edward Keplinger (Hugh Grant) waiting for him.
Surprised by his presence, the Butcher questions how he can be there because, according to Elena, he is living in the countryside, conspiring with the Western powers to undermine their nation.
Edward comforts him and begins to manipulate him against Elena, suggesting that she only panders to the Americans.
Herbert Zubak strangles Edward Keplinger in 'The Regime' Episode 4
Confident in his plan to use Herbert as a tool against Elena, Edward believed he could successfully turn the soldier against her.
He continued to spew hatred against Elena, implying that her decisions were harming both the economy and people's free choice.
Edward proposes working with Herbert, promising him that he will support his land reform agenda once the American sanctions are lifted.
Herbert, visibly dissatisfied with the prospect of aligning with America, remained silent but appeared agitated.
Back in his room, he becomes increasingly agitated as he begins to hear Elena's voice. Consumed by rage, he brutally attacks the prison guards before strangling and executing Edward.
In the end, he visits Elena and passionately kisses her in front of the council and her husband Nicholas Vernham (Guillaume Gallienne)
'The Regime' Episode 4 is now streaming on Max.