Warning: Spoilers ahead for the series finale of What We Do in the Shadows. The last episode of What We Do in the Shadows delivers a remarkable and heartfelt farewell that is both inventive and self-aware. Entitled “The Finale”, season 6, episode 11 kicks off in familiar territory for the vampiric ensemble. However, it quickly shifts gears as Guillermo grapples with the reality of the documentary concluding, particularly following a chaotic situation involving Cravensworth’s Monster and the documentary crew demanding their equipment back.
The earlier seasons, crafted by Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi, set a high bar for the series, yet What We Do in the Shadows has cultivated a loyal fanbase throughout its run. Rather than featuring a star-studded lineup of past guest stars for a grand send-off, the finale effectively focuses on the core characters that fans have come to adore. Although Alexander Skarsgård’s cameo in the penultimate episode yielded little, the finale still shines as an imaginative, reflective, and engaging narrative.
Unveiling the Documentary Crew: A Close Goodbye with Fans
The Series Finale’s Clever Twist
The finale takes a refreshing detour from the ongoing narratives of season 6, enriching the viewer experience. Notably absent are themes from the corporate plotlines and new characters, like Jerry the Vampire, who are unceremoniously removed from the storyline. This choice emphasizes the show’s enduring strength—its delightful workplace sitcom vibes and the absurdity of the characters, no matter the scenario.
Though the season’s office setting felt somewhat disconnected, it highlights the versatility of these beloved characters. A spoof of The Usual Suspects within the finale resonates with the series’ meta-humor, particularly when Nadja enchants the audience to envision their ideal conclusion. This witty self-awareness helps soften the impending farewell, allowing the series to maintain its playful spirit.
As expected, the finale showcases the same clever humor that turned the series into a beloved favorite. While it avoids an overly sentimental conclusion, it acknowledges the bittersweet nature of parting ways with the characters fans have come to love. The show even lightly pokes fun at its own reception, demonstrating a keen awareness of audience expectations. Rest assured, however, Guillermo and Nandor share a meaningful yet humor-laden farewell, encapsulating the series’ spirit.
Reflecting on its Legacy Without Sentimentality
Staying True Until the Very End
In a series as uniquely character-driven as What We Do in the Shadows, there’s no pressing need to wrap up story arcs with typical conclusions or transformative journeys. Guillermo’s attempts at instigating conventional storytelling are humorously dismissed by the vampires, who share a meta-awareness that audiences prefer them as they are. The notion that Nandor and Guillermo’s friendship will persist beyond the documentary’s end provides a satisfying closure, suggesting the crew continues their outlandish antics somewhere out of view.
While the emotional intensity could have been heightened by seeing Laszlo and Nadja express their feelings more profoundly, the creators wisely chose to keep it light. Nadja reminds viewers that this isn’t their first encounter with a documentary team, maintaining alignment with the comedic essence of the show.
By including snippets from prior seasons, the finale cleverly compiles a humorous montage that showcases the vampiric crew’s unchanged nature over centuries, facilitating a nostalgic farewell for the audience.
Overall, the What We Do in the Shadows finale brilliantly honors the show’s legacy while steering clear of excessive nostalgia. It exemplifies the series’ deep affection for its characters and their antics. The final episode avoids clichéd tropes typically reserved for series conclusions and even takes a humorous jab at them.
Ultimately, while the finale incorporates a touching performance of “We’ll Meet Again”by Vera Lynn, it does so without sacrificing the series’ signature wit. Despite Guillermo’s relatable sentiment about the documentary’s end, humor remains at its forefront—perfectly encapsulating how a series should conclude.
As the credits roll, fans are left with the reassurance that What We Do in the Shadows remains a delightfully idiosyncratic comedy, forever etched in the hearts of its viewers.
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