The first season of HBO’s crime drama Task concluded with a finale that left viewers grappling with many unresolved issues. Centered on FBI task force leader Tom Brandis (Mark Ruffalo), who has a complex past as a former priest, the show follows a dangerous pursuit after Robbie Prendergast (Tom Pelphrey) and Cliff Broward (Raúl Castillo) rob a motorcycle club’s drug den. The intense chase, filled with twists and emotional moments, ended on a note that raised significant questions for fans wondering what comes next in the narrative.
Maeve’s Future and the Path Ahead for the Children
The finale reveals Robbie’s niece, Maeve (Emilia Jones), preparing to leave with his children, setting off on a journey that prompts speculation about their destination. One child asks how much longer they must travel, with Maeve replying approximately six hours, igniting theories about whether they are headed to Canada as originally planned by Robbie or if Maeve has forged an independent plan away from their past dangers. Given Maeve’s character development, it seems likely she intends to create a new life distinct from her previous connections. As Maeve is legally an adult, she has the authority to care for the children without fear of legal repercussions, and her possession of a large sum of money grants her the freedom to choose their direction.
Although the series suggested Maeve might lose the money—especially since she was advised to hide it after receiving the bag in Episode 6—the situation shifted dramatically in the last episode. Jayson (Sam Keeley) arrives at Maeve’s home with violent intent but is stopped and killed by Tom and Aleah Clinton (Thuso Mbedu). Later, Tom tells his superior Kathleen (Martha Plimpton) that he has not seen any money near Maeve’s residence, implying he chose to protect Robbie’s family. This act of mercy may reflect Tom seeing parts of himself in Robbie, despite their opposing sides of the law.
Unraveling the Connection Between Law Enforcement and the Dark Hearts
The revelation of ties between the Dark Hearts motorcycle club and certain police members was foreshadowed but ultimately exposed a deeper betrayal within the law enforcement ranks. Grasso (Fabien Frankel), initially presented as the informant, turned out to be a minor player in a more extensive conspiracy, as his superior Dorsey (Raphael Sbarge) orchestrated the alliance with the Dark Hearts. This affiliation allowed the criminal organization to operate undisturbed in a small community due to police protection.
Grasso admits to working as an informant for about two years, enduring sleepless nights, but questions remain about the longevity and depth of the department’s corruption. The familiarity between Dorsey and the Dark Hearts’ leader indicates a longstanding arrangement, likely spanning many years and allowing the gang’s notoriety to grow unchecked. The show suggests that individuals like Grasso—the compromised informants—are part of an ongoing cycle, leaving the possibility open for future corrupt agents protecting criminal networks.
Exploring the Complex Relationship Between Jayson and Perry
Throughout the series, Task weaves themes of fatherhood and mentorship, particularly highlighting the dynamic between Perry (Jamie McShane) and Jayson. Jayson, a volatile and impulsive Dark Hearts member, is seen as a liability by the gang’s veterans, who pressure Perry to eliminate him before he causes further damage. Despite these demands and the risk to his own position, Perry’s reluctance to kill Jayson indicates a complicated, almost paternal loyalty. Perry’s cold, calculated demeanor contrasts with his inability to discard Jayson, sparking curiosity about the history between them.
Ultimately, Perry is ordered to kill Jayson but loses his life after Jayson violently turns on him. This tragic ending underscores the imbalance of loyalty, with Perry more devoted to Jayson than reciprocated. Additionally, Jayson’s killing of Perry over Perry’s wife, Eryn (Margarita Levieva), reveals Jayson’s obsession with control and possibly deeper emotional turbulence masking his aggression and instability, further complicating their mentor-student relationship.
The Question of Ethan’s Potential Release
The finale’s emotionally charged courtroom scene centers on Ethan, Tom Brandis’s son, who committed a serious crime and faces an uncertain future. Tom chooses to deliver a heartfelt plea on Ethan’s behalf, revealing details of his mental health struggles with mood disorders and possible schizophrenia. The speech, marked by Mark Ruffalo’s powerful performance, reflects Tom’s profound internal conflict and capacity for forgiveness.
Although Tom’s vow to forgive and love Ethan and the freshly painted room suggest hope for Ethan’s return, the reality remains grim. Given the severity of the offense and his mental state, it is more likely Ethan will be confined to a facility balancing his treatment with necessary punitive measures. The outcome emphasizes the painful balance families face when confronting mental illness intertwined with legal consequences.
Could Robbie and Cliff Have Escaped Their Fate?
The series opens with Robbie and Cliff orchestrating drug den robberies, leveraging their work as garbage collectors to surveil targets. Their organized approach, discipline, and connections initially suggest they might pull off their plans successfully. However, unpredictable events, including the loss and death of their partner Peaches (Owen Teague), derail their attempts. Though viewers empathize with Robbie and Cliff’s struggle to improve their lives, their choice to steal from the dangerous Dark Hearts set a fatal path.
While fans hoped for a happy ending, the story’s trajectory demonstrates crime rarely pays, confirming that the duo’s demise was almost inevitable. Watching Robbie die in Cliff’s arms is a moment charged with sorrow but grounded in realism. Their tragic end underscores the series’ unforgiving tone and warns against romanticizing criminal endeavors. For those seeking a less painful version of their journey, stopping the show after the first episode is a personal, if somber, option.
Prospects for a Second Season
Rumors swirl about a possible second season of Task, and the finale includes hints that the story might continue. Tom Brandis’s character offers rich narrative possibilities—the FBI agent’s work could expand beyond the initial setting, including the formation of new task forces or revisiting alliances like the one with Aleah Clinton. Additionally, the ongoing unraveling of the Dark Hearts and developments surrounding characters such as Grasso or Sam could deepen the plot.
Creator Brad Ingelsby has acknowledged Season 2 as a potential, but Mark Ruffalo’s busy schedule, especially with the return of Marvel’s Avengers and his likely reprisal of the Hulk, complicates matters. While the show could theoretically proceed without Ruffalo, his portrayal of Tom Brandis is integral. Originally offered to Michael Keaton, the role found its ideal fit in Ruffalo, whose warmth and depth bring unique qualities that would be difficult to replace. The possibility of a return remains tentative, pending his availability.
