Warning: Spoilers ahead for Dark Winds season 3, episode 4.
Dissatisfaction with Bernadette’s Character Arc in Dark Winds
In the latest episode of Dark Winds, specifically season 3, episode 4, a pivotal moment involving Bernadette has left some viewers—including myself—feeling quite disappointed. Throughout the series, Bernadette Manuelito has remained shrouded in mystery compared to her more fleshed-out counterparts, Joe Leaphorn and Jim Chee. While Joe has been the central figure across the seasons and Jim’s backstory was explored in both the first and third seasons, Bernadette’s narrative arc has been notably underdeveloped. The only consistent thread we have is her lifelong connection to Joe within the reservation.
Bernadette is portrayed as a sharp-witted and confident character, never shying away from expressing her thoughts, even when they contradict others. This steadfastness makes her impulsive choice at the climax of season 3, episode 4, particularly perplexing. It appears less like a genuine character decision and more like a contrived plot twist intended to evoke drama.
Assessing Bernadette’s Unexpected Romantic Shift
What struck me most about Bernadette’s decision to pursue Ivan following her encounter with Chee is how starkly it contrasts with her established character traits. Throughout the series, she has consistently demonstrated resilience and self-assurance. The idea that she would be so shaken by Chee’s departure as to seek comfort in Ivan, a man with whom she has had limited prior interaction, strikes me as implausible. This choice feels impulsive and, frankly, out of character.
There are a few interpretations of Bernadette’s actions, none of which shine a positive light on her character. One possibility is that her decision to sleep with Ivan stems from anger towards Chee for expressing his feelings just as she was considering moving on. In this scenario, the act serves as a way to lash out without Chee’s knowledge. Alternatively, Chee’s confrontation could have induced fear within her—fear of her lingering feelings—prompting her to bury those emotions under a new romantic encounter. A third, albeit unlikely, explanation posits that her encounter with Chee could lead her to realize her genuine affection for Ivan, prompting her to lower her emotional defenses.
Given how hesitant Bernadette has been in her interactions with Ivan—having only recently agreed to go on a date—this third interpretation seems highly unlikely. The circumstances surrounding her midnight visit to Ivan’s doorstep exude an air of desperation. Consequently, the situation feels more aligned with the first two interpretations, which, if valid, suggests unfairness towards all parties involved, particularly Bernadette herself.
The Perpetuation of Tired Tropes in Dark Winds
On a broader level, Bernadette’s decision is disheartening as it perpetuates an all-too-common trope seen in narratives featuring female characters: the act of engaging with a man to either spite another or to copes with unreciprocated feelings. This depiction comes across as childish and immature, further embedding negative stereotypes about women resorting to emotional manipulation in response to distress. As a viewer, I find this portrayal tiresome and dated.
This choice also leaves me frustrated with the writers of Dark Winds. Thus far, they have crafted a narrative where character decisions feel authentic and earned. Although the series has occasionally leaned into established tropes—being a Western noir, it inevitably contains familiar elements—it has generally avoided toxic storytelling conventions. Up until this point, even flawed decisions have aligned with character development, enhancing the series’ integrity. However, Bernadette’s recent decision seems beneath her established persona, suggesting either a troubling lack of understanding of her emotional landscape or a troubling convenience of narrative.
Ultimately, the trajectory for Bernadette deserves more depth and nuance, aligning with the well-constructed character we have come to appreciate.