Warning! This article contains spoilers for the finale of Reacher season 3.
The climactic finale of Reacher season 3 presents a gripping duel where Paulie meets his end battling Jack Reacher. However, the tragedy of his demise lies in a missed opportunity that could have altered the outcome dramatically. This season distinguishes itself with a captivating narrative twist, introducing Reacher as an undercover agent for the DEA—a revelation that amplifies the tension throughout the episodes. As Reacher navigates his dangerous double life, viewers are treated to a series of suspense-filled confrontations.
The standout moment comes in the final showdown between the two formidable characters. After building anticipation from the onset, the series delivers a heart-pounding battle that keeps viewers riveted. Analyzing their encounter closely reveals that Paulie had ample chance to eliminate Reacher, but a crucial mistake sealed his fate.
Missed Opportunity: Paulie Could Have Shot Reacher in Season 3’s Climactic Battle
Paulie Should Have Used His Gun Early On
As the confrontation begins, Paulie initially has the upper hand, retaliating after Reacher attempts to choke him out from behind. Realizing the strength disparity, Reacher instinctively reaches for a gun on the ground. Unfortunately for him, Paulie is quicker, kicking the weapon away and insisting on a fair fight. By doing so, he squandered a vital chance to take down Reacher decisively.
Paulie’s decision to challenge Reacher without firearms demonstrates a serious underestimation of his opponent. Although he boasts significant physical strength, the battle quickly turns with Reacher employing his combat skills and tactical intelligence to mount a comeback.
Paulie’s Gun Usage Highlights His Loss of Control
Breaking His Own Rule with the Gatehouse Gun
Image via Prime Video
As the fight progresses, Paulie begins to feel the strain of the showdown, ultimately retreating from his own principles when he aims the massive gatehouse gun at Reacher. In that moment, he mistakenly believes he has regained control of the situation, marking a significant shift in the battle’s dynamics. However, this lapse reveals his growing desperation.
When Paulie pulls the trigger, the weapon malfunctions, backfiring and leading to his downfall. As he takes his last breaths, Reacher delivers a powerful reminder: “You may be bigger and stronger, but I’m smarter.”This statement encapsulates the theme of the season, illustrating how Paulie’s overconfidence and failure to leverage his strengths led to his demise. In retrospect, had he embraced the advantage of the weapon earlier, the conclusion of Reacher season 3 might have been vastly different. However, blinded by pride and an underestimation of Reacher’s cunning, he ultimately fell victim to his own hubris.