In the newest episode of 1923, Donald Whitfield continues attempting to capitalize off the Dutton’s land along with Banner Creighton. Not only does Whitfield have a plan, but he also has a team and investors. Banner is now pressured to build an army to take over the land, making the war only months or less away.

Alexandra continues her journey to the Dutton’s farm in Montana. As she refreshes in the restroom, she is attacked by a pickpocket, as foreshadowed in the previous episode. Alexandra is robbed and beaten until she is unconscious, leaving her motionless on the bathroom floor. As soon as she regains consciousness, she sprints to the train, only seconds away from missing it. Beaten and dirty, she walks through the train in shame as she is gawked at.

Zane Dutton decides to go through with his operation; he must have the built-up liquid and blood drained from his skull.  Jacob Dutton watches over the procedure as Zane is unconscious from the doctor’s chloroform. As the doctor drills, Zane awakens, screaming from the pain. Jacob keeps Zane still as the blood drains, making the procedure a success.

While one issue on the ranch has been solved, the Duttons now need to address Elizabeth, who wants to leave the ranch after needing to receive rabies shots. Jack Dutton is distraught as his wife will leave him, or he must leave the ranch with her. Jacob Dutton discusses this with Elizabeth, explaining that Jack wants to keep his family safe, just as they wish to do with her. Cara makes her way into the room with another shot. As Elizabeth gives herself the shot, she’s in immense visible pain. The doctor inspects her before he departs and announces that she’s pregnant. This news brings Elizabeth euphoria, bringing joy to the entire ranch.

Spencer Dutton hitchhikes to Montana along Texas, though he is quickly stopped by an officer. This officer inspects Spencer claiming what he’s doing is illegal. Instead of walking, the officer offers him a ride. While it seemed as though Spencer finally had good luck, this officer coerced him into delivering illegal alcohol back to the Italians. Upon their arrival, a shootout is initiated. The officer tries to lock Spencer in the car, but he escapes, catching a moving cargo train.

While this cargo train sheltered him , it was also occupied by the homeless. Two men and one child eye Spencer, demanding he  pay them. Spencer denies it, keeping his shotgun on them as they leer over him. As hours pass, Spencer eventually shuts his eyes due to exhaustion. The trio take advantage of this moment and reach for his gun as the child holds a knife to his neck. Spencer awakens, shooting the men and knocking out the child. He quickly jumps off the train, leaving the scene.

As Banner continues to work with Whitfeild, he learns that Whitfeild is an evil man, just as he imagined. Whitfield reveals the body of a dead woman in his bed. The second woman accidentally let her die. With this, Whitfield orders her to bring a new woman to him and for Banner to dispose of the body. 

Meanwhile, Teonna herds cattle with her father, Runs His Horse, and Pete Plenty Clouds. Not only do they get shelter, but pay as they work with the cowboys. As they travel to the next town over, Teonna finds wanted posters of her in this state. Shocked and frightened, she meets with her father, and they both realize how much danger they are in.

Episode four showed many of the issues at the Ranch resolved as Jacob returns. As the season continues, the small side plots become predictable. The Duttons solve a problem and hope for Spencer to return. As Spencer travels back to the ranch, he encounters the worst scenario and makes it out without a scratch, all while showing how honorable he is by saving multiple people along the way. This showcases a classic ‘good guy’ that’s presented in classic Westerns, possibly allowing audiences to experience nostalgia. Even so, many of these plot points have been predictable. Alexandra’s plot is still strong, as this character has developed resilience as she travels to a new land. While this season has been slow to start, audiences can still look to Alexandra’s journey for a compelling narrative. Her struggles and determination bring emotional depth to the show, contrasting with the otherwise formulaic plots.

Rating: 6.5/10