‘Major Crimes’ season 4, episode 18 (winter finale) review: Rusty and Gus’ big decision

The winter finale of “Major Crimes” had a number of different things to revolve, but first and foremost, the team had their work cut out for them trying to capture one of their most dangerous criminals of the entire season.

This case was thoroughly compelling, or at least as much as one could be that we knew would be resolved at the end of the hour. A crazed man was running around Los Angeles creating what he considered to be a cinematic work of art: Murdering people and capturing it all on his phone for a later date. The investigation went through all of its typical paces, but right before it came to a fiery conclusion the team of course saved the day. Even though there was nothing in this that completely counts as a game-changer, at least it was something different than the standard murder plot.

As electrifying as this case was, the real heart of the story came for us through watching Rusty and Gus, who were free to talk more about their feelings with Slider a little more in the rear-view mirror. Rusty finally opened himself up to having feelings, and while we’re not sure that the two are set for life now as a couple, they’re going to give it a shot. Rusty realized that it is fear that is keeping him at arm’s length from finding love, and as a gesture of going “all-in,” he decided to invite Rusty (who is moving to Los Angeles) to Christmas.

While it may have been just a tiny moment, who else loved protective Provenza at the end? It was a nice character moment to accent the closing holiday party; given how serious the show may be at times, having a little cheer at the end is good to end things on a lighter note.

This was a great way to send off this part of season 4, and although you’re going to be waiting for a while for the final five episodes to air, hopefully seeing Rusty happy (and knowing that there will probably be some good stuff down the road for Sharon and Andy) will make you excited for what lies ahead. Grade: A-.

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