Black Doves: Creator Explains Why Sam Refuses to Kill Adult Hector

Joe Barton, the creator of Black Doves, has shared insights into a significant character dynamic between Sam Young, portrayed by Ben Whishaw, and Hector Newman, played by Luther Ford. In the six-part Netflix series, the tension escalates not only from the main plot involving the enigmatic spy Helen Webb (played by Keira Knightley) but also from Sam’s struggle with a haunting past decision — namely, his failure to eliminate Hector when he was just a boy, which now complicates their present circumstances.

Understanding Sam’s Dilemma

In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Barton elaborates on why Sam cannot go through with his intention to kill Hector, despite feeling that this is what he must do. The complexity arises when Barton contrasts Sam’s hesitance with his earlier decision to spare Hector’s life as a child, suggesting that this singular act of mercy shapes Sam’s moral compass:

It’s the challenge of presenting someone that kills people for a living. What I thought was interesting about him is that I think the codes are completely bullshit, really. I think he knows he’s lying to himself as well. But this one time, where he did something that is objectively good, the objective right choice, where he didn’t murder this child even. That destroyed and that blew his whole life up, and it caused all this trouble for him and Helen. But he was like, ‘No, I did that. And that is the one good thing I’ve ever done.’ So later on, when he meets Hector as an older man, he still can’t kill him, even though he’s supposed to, even though it would help him. With his dad, he’s confronted with the fact that he’s supposed to kill his father. And really, for me, that was the moment where he either went for it or didn’t, and he wanted to be a hitman. In my head, he wanted to be a hitman because his dad was a hitman.

So it was about forcing this very complicated character into a world of binary, do or do not; good or bad. He’s so much more complex than that, but he’s trying desperately to think of himself as good or bad. His whole speech about, ‘I never killed anyone that didn’t make the world a better place,’ which is what his dad told him. His dad was lying to himself, and he’s lying to himself.

Impact of Sam & Hector Relationship on Season 2

The Complexity of Sam’s Choice

The spy thriller does not shy away from the reality that Sam could take Hector’s life if he chose to. Despite the clear benefits of such an act, particularly in terms of protecting Helen, Sam’s emotional turmoil leads to moments of hesitation. During their tense encounters, it becomes apparent that while Hector wants Sam to serve as his hired gun, the depths of their relationship are complex and layered.

Exploring the Potential of the Sam & Hector Dynamic

Diverse Narrative Paths Await

As Black Doves gears up for its anticipated second season, the dynamics between the characters are poised to evolve significantly. The series presents a multifaceted narrative where Helen’s alliances, particularly with Reed (treated by Sarah Lancashire) as they navigate political turbulence, will be critical. Yet, the ambiguous conclusion between Hector and Sam leaves viewers contemplating their future interactions. Hector’s remarks about Sam’s inherent goodness hints at a potential shift in their relationship, expanding the possibility for diverse narrative trajectories.

Moreover, Hector’s observant admiration for Sam introduces a tantalizing layer of complexity, prompting speculation about whether they will remain adversaries or evolve into something unexpectedly collaborative. This intricate interplay between our protagonists adds a layer of intrigue and is undeniably one of the most intriguing aspects of this series.

Source: The Hollywood Reporter

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