‘Poldark’ season 2, episode 4 review: Ross vs. George and a Demelza rescue mission

There are a few things that we know about “Poldark” as a series at this point, starting with the sole fact that George is going to keep being a terrible human being. As a lead villain he’s at times immature, but when he gets an idea in his brain, he’s going to do just about everything that he can in order to ensure that he gets what he wants from it.

The highlight from tonight’s episode for many is probably Ross and George getting into a massive brawl, one that is brought on in part by the former learning that the latter had chose to do a few more nasty things when it comes to shares, while also attempting to try and turn Ross and Francis again one another.

After this glorious fight scene, tonight’s episode chose to once again circumnavigate the classic romantic tropes, having a Ross / Demelza scene like no other while he took her away pregnant while she was struggling to get to shore. What made this episodes was her fighting back at him after the argument the two had earlier in the episode; it was a reminder that she was hardly a damsel in distress, and she’s a fighter every bit as much as he is. In the midst of all of this chaos, Ross’ mine seems to be getting traction! The larger question is precisely how permanent it will be.

Elsewhere, who else is enjoying the Charlotte / Dwight encounters? It still feels painfully clear that the former is up to something, but that doesn’t make it any less compelling to watch the two spend time together.

If there is a weakness that “Poldark” has at times as a series, it comes via orchestrating the passage of time. A good bit of evidence of that comes via Demelza’s pregnancy, which has a timeline that is fairly tough to follow. Also, we want more Verity, though that is more of a problem of having too many good characters than they know at times what to do with them.

Still, this was a fairly strong “Poldark” episode with several notable moments; it is a natural evolution in the story of the season so far, even if said story is taking its time. Grade: B+.