Resolution (Boardwalk Empire)

In the context of the HBO television series Boardwalk Empire, "Resolution" refers to the overarching process of resolving plotlines, character arcs, and conflicts developed throughout the season. It encompasses both the literal resolutions achieved in specific episodes, often season finales, and the broader sense of resolving the thematic concerns of the show.

Within Boardwalk Empire, resolutions are often complex and morally ambiguous, reflecting the show's realistic depiction of the criminal underworld and political corruption during the Prohibition era. Key characters rarely achieve completely satisfactory or "happy" endings. Instead, resolutions often involve significant losses, moral compromises, and the acceptance of a flawed reality.

The resolution of a particular plotline might involve a character achieving a specific goal, such as eliminating a rival or securing a business deal. However, this success is often accompanied by negative consequences, such as betraying allies or committing acts of violence. Character arcs might resolve with a character undergoing significant personal change, but this transformation is frequently driven by trauma and loss, leading to a more hardened or cynical outlook.

The overall resolution of a season of Boardwalk Empire typically leaves some threads open, hinting at future conflicts and developments. This is designed to maintain viewer interest and provide a foundation for the next season's narrative. The resolutions rarely offer closure in a simple, straightforward sense, mirroring the chaotic and unpredictable nature of the show's historical setting and the lives of its characters. The idea of "resolution" itself is often challenged, suggesting that true closure and lasting peace are elusive in the world of Boardwalk Empire.