I don't know what I was expecting this week, but it wasn't this... this, was one of the funniest, saddest, most surreal episodes of the show to date. The first half made me full on belly laugh, a couple of times actually. The second half almost brought me to tears. The cinematography was absolutely beautiful and the score this time round is particularly enchanting.
It's difficult to explain what makes this episode so great, but it is just that. Great.
47 Reviews
Beautiful character-driven episode
mathprnb11 November 2019
This episode was very unexpected for me. It was funny and surprising, but also touching and deeply beautiful. It showed us some very important emotional aspects of Eliott, Darlene and Tyrell. The slow pace resembled me some of those Breaking Bad episodes in which the main plot doesn't develop much, but we get to know the characters and their relations with a lot more depth. I love it.
The bottle episode we deserve
backslapjones28 October 2019
Comedic relief is like a secret weapon this show keeps in its back pocket to be used for unique episodes like this, and the main characters' deadpan reactions to the strange and obnoxious people around them never fail to make me laugh. Even though this is a drama, so were Breaking Bad and The Sopranos, both of which had some hilarious moments. Apart from the humor, this is the bottle episode I've been waiting for. I don't think there's been an episode this bizarre in Mr. Robot since Elliot's morphine withdrawal episode in season 1, and both of them stand out to me as bottle episodes because their plots focus on very specific problems for the characters. Whereas before it was Elliot's addiction, now it's a hunt for a Dark Army spy, with some juicy plot and character development for Dom, Darlene, and Tyrell sprinkled in. Abed from Community described bottle episodes as "wall-to-wall facial expressions and emotional nuance", which has somewhat of a lazy connotation, but this show chooses to tell a gripping story even in its bottle episodes. That's why it's not just a tv show, it's a masterpiece.
Peak of Mr. Robot
krishu-7819923 November 2019
How are they doing this? I don't know
kshadib28 October 2019
Since the very beginning of Season 3, I have seen a great change to this series. The episodes are more focused on the 50-60 mins rather than the entire story. But they are building the story at the same time. I have to say this, it's not just an episode anymore, It's Art.
Almost all the episodes since season 3 has been amazing. This one also adds the essence of art that they are constantly producing. I love how by the time of winter, they are focusing on the individual characters and their actual self. They are kinda reflecting upon themselves. And you can't blame them, it's that time of the year. I have nothing but respect for Sam. Also for Rami. I hope this artwork is continued throughout the whole show.
Almost all the episodes since season 3 has been amazing. This one also adds the essence of art that they are constantly producing. I love how by the time of winter, they are focusing on the individual characters and their actual self. They are kinda reflecting upon themselves. And you can't blame them, it's that time of the year. I have nothing but respect for Sam. Also for Rami. I hope this artwork is continued throughout the whole show.
A very strange episode indeed
TouchTheGarlicProduction28 October 2019
Most of this episode feels like a road-trip buddy comedy, then towards the end it gets very melancholy and meditative, and then the final scene is just bizarre. I'm really not sure what to make of it. It's a pretty slow episode overall, but it's gorgeous to look at and has some fantastic character development.
In some ways the episode is very reminiscent of "Pine Barrens" from The Sopranos; the plots are quite similar and they both derail the main narrative for a grumpy buddy-adventure in the woods. However, where "Pine Barrens" is very much a comedic episode, "404 Not Found" is much more serious and introspective. While there's definitely a lot of comedy here, most of it arises almost unintentionally from the characters; we laugh, but then feel guilty and wonder if we were supposed to.
All in all, this is not one of my favourite episodes of Mr. Robot, but it's one that I'll remember; it's very different from the rest and it has an absolutely gorgeous aesthetic. I mean, Sam Esmail always directs the hell out of this show, but this one is particularly pretty.
In some ways the episode is very reminiscent of "Pine Barrens" from The Sopranos; the plots are quite similar and they both derail the main narrative for a grumpy buddy-adventure in the woods. However, where "Pine Barrens" is very much a comedic episode, "404 Not Found" is much more serious and introspective. While there's definitely a lot of comedy here, most of it arises almost unintentionally from the characters; we laugh, but then feel guilty and wonder if we were supposed to.
All in all, this is not one of my favourite episodes of Mr. Robot, but it's one that I'll remember; it's very different from the rest and it has an absolutely gorgeous aesthetic. I mean, Sam Esmail always directs the hell out of this show, but this one is particularly pretty.
Mesmerizing and beautifully crafted episode!
evgenycaruana28 October 2019
Warning: Spoilers
That Final Scene got me really thinking... what the heck was that? Yet another flawless episode! Slow-paced yet very entertaining nonetheless. So when Wellick is in his last moments and he walks towards that mysterious sound that is heard during the entire episode - when the trio, Elliot, Wellick and Mr Robot, are stranded - it really does resonate well with the melancholic departure of Wellick being a mysterious character himself in this show. It was a fitting end for the character!
an emotional high
da3m0nic28 October 2019
Warning: Spoilers
The moment this episode ended I had very mixed feelings about it. I just knew I had to watch it again before I reviewed it and I'm glad I did. Once that anxious feeling I get in my chest when I hope something with the main story is happening goes away and I just focus on the episode, I love this episode. It's got the funniest moments of the season so far, Mr. Robot screaming at that woman when he's ran out of patience, the drunk santa calling Darlene "Dolly", etcetera. But this episode also was deeply introspective and did the characters of Dom, Darlene, and particularly Tyrell, so much justice when it comes to their emotional journeys.
When I see this episode's ending without it instantly cutting to commercial and ruining the experience, I feel the sense that this is how Tyrell's journey is meant to end. He was never "one of them" (the 1%), so why would his journey end in some big explosive moment that we're anticipating it to for a character like Whiterose near the end of the season? Tyrell was always the most mysterious character of Mr. Robot and he gets the most mysterious, but also strangely the most beautiful, death on the entire show, especially for a character of his importance.
I loved seeing Darlene work through her feelings with Tobias. I empathize so much with her attempt to help Tobias after taking all of the dark stuff he said on the car ride the wrong way. It makes total sense why she would take it the wrong way, not just because of her emotional state in this episode, but also because of her job as a sibling to Elliot. Darlene is always worried about him and that part of her comes out when Tobias says all these things. It's perfect for her character and I also like the twist that the drunk santa character is actually a super nice guy, which I wasn't expecting on my first watch.
Dom's storyline calls back to when she showed up at Angela's place unannounced and told her about her nightmares she has where she's drowning, and that the moment she gives up control and stops fighting, she wakes up. We actually get to see this dream play out on screen, except it's mixed with her sexual feelings that come with being a lonely person and her fear of the dark army being everywhere because they are everywhere.
All of these storylines don't matter in the grand scheme of things, probably (except for Tyrell dying, that'll be important). And once you let go of that need for answers, you get one of the best single episodes of Mr. Robot for its characters. And it doesn't get much better than that.
And also the directing and cinematography is gorgeous.
And also Pine Barrens.
When I see this episode's ending without it instantly cutting to commercial and ruining the experience, I feel the sense that this is how Tyrell's journey is meant to end. He was never "one of them" (the 1%), so why would his journey end in some big explosive moment that we're anticipating it to for a character like Whiterose near the end of the season? Tyrell was always the most mysterious character of Mr. Robot and he gets the most mysterious, but also strangely the most beautiful, death on the entire show, especially for a character of his importance.
I loved seeing Darlene work through her feelings with Tobias. I empathize so much with her attempt to help Tobias after taking all of the dark stuff he said on the car ride the wrong way. It makes total sense why she would take it the wrong way, not just because of her emotional state in this episode, but also because of her job as a sibling to Elliot. Darlene is always worried about him and that part of her comes out when Tobias says all these things. It's perfect for her character and I also like the twist that the drunk santa character is actually a super nice guy, which I wasn't expecting on my first watch.
Dom's storyline calls back to when she showed up at Angela's place unannounced and told her about her nightmares she has where she's drowning, and that the moment she gives up control and stops fighting, she wakes up. We actually get to see this dream play out on screen, except it's mixed with her sexual feelings that come with being a lonely person and her fear of the dark army being everywhere because they are everywhere.
All of these storylines don't matter in the grand scheme of things, probably (except for Tyrell dying, that'll be important). And once you let go of that need for answers, you get one of the best single episodes of Mr. Robot for its characters. And it doesn't get much better than that.
And also the directing and cinematography is gorgeous.
And also Pine Barrens.
This show keeps surprising me
mateo1307 March 2021
There is no single word how this show has surprised me. I simply love the way the writer puts in these episodes where he carefully shows who are the characters and what are their motivations. No matter how big their problems are the motives are simple and easily consumable for everyone. We care about each other and we must value those who stand besides us in life.
I think this is one of the best series out there which actually does have a good message to be delivered from time to time again.
Plains trains and automobiles
DavidLavelle759 April 2020
impressive cinematography glossing over a weak plot
grandomeur1 November 2019
A number of really eye-pleasing scenes, particularly those shots of the foggy forest glistening under the moonlight. But apart from that and a couple of humorous twists, I found myself bored and tempted to fast forward.
Things were made worse by the petulant millennial behavior some of the main characters (Darlene, Tyrell) have evolved to represent. I'd tolerate some over-dramatic complaining if the plot was strong enough to keep me hooked, but in such a filler episode it was just unbearable, at least for me.
Things were made worse by the petulant millennial behavior some of the main characters (Darlene, Tyrell) have evolved to represent. I'd tolerate some over-dramatic complaining if the plot was strong enough to keep me hooked, but in such a filler episode it was just unbearable, at least for me.
Cinematographical Masterpiece
iamsarang29 October 2019
As from the beginning of season 4, excellent cinematography and the background score is gripping and prompt. I think This Is An Art in a way which every episode is crafted.
And I dont know why people saying this was a boring filler unrequired episode.... I THINK NOT AT ALL. It was about the feel of being present in the woods cold and stark, the atomosphere they created and the suspense towards the end and throughout scary christmas vibes. I would regeret if i wouldn't had seen this episode.,
And I dont know why people saying this was a boring filler unrequired episode.... I THINK NOT AT ALL. It was about the feel of being present in the woods cold and stark, the atomosphere they created and the suspense towards the end and throughout scary christmas vibes. I would regeret if i wouldn't had seen this episode.,
Doesn't matter if it's a filler episode
ectreece29 October 2019
Warning: Spoilers
Some people are calling this a filler episode, and it essentially is. The plot doesn't really change much throughout this episode, but why does that matter? If the episode is still enjoyable and engaging, then why is it important for there to be big advancements in terms of the plot? This episode was easily the funniest in season 4 so far, but more than that, the atmosphere and side stories with Darlene and Dom were fantastic. It showed a more caring and vulnerable side of Darlene, as she was helping this random stranger, that we don't often see. And having Tyrell and Elliot/Mr. Robot spend the entire episode together on the run/lost in the woods was very refreshing after Tyrell's absence from the show. Also the atmosphere of the woods, along with the random noises being heard throughout, was pretty creepy and gave the show kind of a horror feel, instead of a thriller, for the first time. And it technically did advance the plot, because whatever those noises were coming from, and that Tyrell found at the end, I can only assume is something pretty wild and possibly pretty important, and I'm stoked to find out what it is and it's relation to the story.
Thrilling
rodolfo-tmartins28 October 2019
Warning: Spoilers
One of my favorites so far. Darlene struggling to find Elliot while enjoying a deep and funny conversation with drunk Santa, finally having the chance to unburden her feelings. On the other side, Elliot has to play Tyrell's therapist, when they just spend their time walking in circles. Sure, it had to end by rising our curiosity about the howling mysterious blue light.
Photography was beautiful and the soundtrack matched the episode perfectly.
They're Listening... And So Was I To A Piece of True Art.
Abidur-TheChosenOne30 October 2019
Warning: Spoilers
I have got to be honest, I did not expect the episode to turn out like this, but boy I am very happy it did! This episode of Mr Robot was a pure form of art, it kept me utterly engaged through its suspenseful scenes and mesmerising score. So powerful that I did have goosebumps during this episode! Episode 404 does not follow the usual suit of a Mr Robot episode, to put it simply, it was something I never knew I needed so much until it was presented to me. That is one of the best feelings a show could give you. After seeing Elliot's more sensitive side in the previous episode, that showed us a long awaited romantic side of Elliot that we had not seen for a while; I am happy to see Elliot once again showing that he is indeed human. Not the "robot" that he may portray at times, this was shown when getting Tyrell back on board after losing all hope, this is so Elliot could warn his sister Darlene of what is to possibly come. It again shows that Elliot does care at the right time of course, even if Darlene does not see it often. Then, we are shown a magnificent piece of visual art, Elliot face to face with Tyrell with the camera and lighting almost making them seem shadowlike. It reminds us as fans of all they went through with each other that most do not know about. They really have been through a war together to achieve something that is bigger than both of them. A scene that got me in the feels was at the end, which could be their final scene onscreen. This is Tyrell telling Elliot to "make sure" he takes "care of Whiterose". Elliot responds saying he Tyrell die, with Tyrell saying he's "just going for a walk". I felt that, a very moving scene to say the least with the soundtrack making it more emotional. It was a good transition to how they depicted Tyrell Wellick's "death", or his last moments before that. This was with his slow hobble wandering into the woods upon seeing a bright alluring light, but what was it... Then the show closes whilst fading to white to mournful background music, truly powerful once again, it triggers an array of emotions, and could indicate Tyrell's death... But, is Tyrell really dead?, I do hope not and Darlene somehow stumbles upon him. Or they bring him back from the dead (again!) a few episodes later. Ultimately, if Tyrell really is dead, Philip Price may be forced to remain as CEO of E Corp, thus Elliot losing his insider at E Corp. It seems to be working in Whiterose's favour, but could Elliot use this chaos to his advantage? I predict this show will be my show of the year once again, just as season 3 was. It's sad that this is the final season, but I am impressed at the direction the show is heading.
Pine Barrens Of Mr Robot
adibm-419109 October 2021
Am I the only one who's crying .....??
somjith22 May 2020
Brilliant cinematography, some humour but overall no real plot progression
alyaboulenein9529 October 2019
Positives:
1-Fantastic cinematography
2-The woman who was trying to give them directions was really funny
Negatives: 1-No real plot progression 2-Some of it just felt like filler, did not learn anything we did not already know (for example about Dom).
This wasn't a horrible episode by any means, it was ok & I can understand why some people really liked it, but it just wasn't my type of my episode. The first three episodes were far superior in my opinion.
Negatives: 1-No real plot progression 2-Some of it just felt like filler, did not learn anything we did not already know (for example about Dom).
This wasn't a horrible episode by any means, it was ok & I can understand why some people really liked it, but it just wasn't my type of my episode. The first three episodes were far superior in my opinion.
Soo slow and soo boring
adhamalkhouli15 February 2021
Only 2 or 3 minutes are more than enough for this episode, its very boring and disappointing, cheap story nothing new, very bad drama between Elliott and Tyrrell and of course just adding more than 20 minutes for Darlene sceneses!
Deserve less than 1 star rate because its cheating us with completely worthless episode!
Not sure why some people rate it between 10-5! Or even 4 or 3! Not sure what they find watching the whole bla bla nothing episode!
MAGICAL episode
luisfernandojcbrs11 April 2022
For me it is among my top three best chapters of all Mr. Robot.
If they gave me a single word to describe the episode it would be ¨Magical¨ the episode is perfect but the right word would be MAGICAL. A perfect episode 10/10.
If they gave me a single word to describe the episode it would be ¨Magical¨ the episode is perfect but the right word would be MAGICAL. A perfect episode 10/10.
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