"Volume 3: The Hermit" is the third episode of Nicolas Winding Refn's (NWR) show, "Too Old to Die Young." Featuring the return of Miles Teller, again playing a prominent role in this episode, "Volume 3" follows the same path that the previous two episodes set up - and what I mean by that is, episode three is just as unpredictable as what came before it.
If there's one thing I respect about NWR's approach to this series thus far, it's that he is trying his damnedest to ensure every episode feels different from one another. I legitimately never know what is going to happen next in this show. "Volume 3" tones down the violence quite a bit, and feels much more mainstream compared to the previous two episodes, while still maintaining that classic Refn flair that you most likely enjoy if you're watching this show.
Yes, there are still slow camera pans, glorious one-shot takes, and moody, atmospheric locals, but more than that, "Volume 3" featured probably the most dialogue in anything Refn has ever made. This episode was very story and character focused, and it was intriguing from beginning to end. There are so many interesting new characters, like the one introduced in Jena Malone, plot points, and different dynamics that I really cannot wait to watch episode four - though I know it will definitely go a completely different route than I expect.
As I mentioned, this episode was quite dialogue heavy, which I was thankful for because of how good the dialogue was. Yes, people respond in between long pauses, and usually talk in short sentences, but that's really an acquired taste at this point. The dialogue may not have been a work of literary genius, but what was more interesting was the characters who were engaged in dialogue, and why they were talking. At one point, two characters have a conversation, and just knowing their backstory makes the scene so much more riveting. It's great stuff, and well worth the two episode build up to get here.
"Volume 3: The Hermit" is the best episode of "Too Old to Die Young" yet. It introduces interesting new characters and plot points that I can't wait to see to completion, as well as demonstrates a surprising level of restraint that allows the episode breathing room, enabling it to focus more fully on its characters and the story it is telling. NWR, well done.
