The Heart-Wrenching Turns of '1923': A Deep Dive into Season Two's Penultimate Episode

The penultimate episode of “1923,” titled “The Mountain Teeth of Monsters,” has left fans reeling with its shocking plot twists and emotional farewells. Created by Taylor Sheridan, this installment stands out not only for its high-stakes drama but also for its poignant representation of Native American stories. With a staggering seven character deaths, the episode sets the stage for a gripping season finale, but it also invites viewers to reflect on the weight of loss and legacy.

Among the most impactful moments are the deaths of two pivotal characters: Runs His Horse, played by Michael Spears, and Pete Plenty Clouds, portrayed by Jeremy Gauna. Their fates are particularly poignant, considering the real-life tragedy that befell the original actor for Pete, Cole Brings Plenty, who passed away shortly after the first season’s finale. The emotional weight of these losses spills over into the performances, making the scenes resonate even more deeply with audiences.

In “The Mountain Teeth of Monsters,” the tension escalates as Pete finds himself in a deadly confrontation while trying to protect Teonna, played by Aminah Nieves. The stakes are high as the priest Father Renaud and Marshall Kent close in on him. The episode delivers a brutal twist when Pete is killed by Kent, only for Renaud to later murder Runs His Horse in cold blood. This sequence of events not only serves as a catalyst for Teonna’s transformation but also highlights the systemic violence faced by Indigenous peoples.

Spears and Gauna shared their emotional responses to their characters’ deaths during interviews, emphasizing how their real-life experiences influenced their performances. Gauna expressed the difficulty of portraying such a heavy narrative, saying, “Reading the script was very, very hard because of everything that happened in real life.” The authenticity of their emotions shines through in their performances, making the scenes even more impactful.

The representation of Native culture is a crucial aspect of “1923,” and both actors contributed to this authenticity. Spears, a Lakota actor, worked closely with the wardrobe department to ensure that his character’s attire reflected his heritage. He requested elk teeth to be included in his costume, symbolizing his character’s warrior status and connection to his culture. This attention to detail enriches the storytelling, allowing for a more profound connection to the characters and their struggles.

As the episode unfolds, the narrative underscores the historical trauma faced by Indigenous peoples in America. Spears articulates the significance of their characters’ deaths, suggesting that they serve as a springboard for Teonna’s growth and resilience. He believes that despite the overwhelming loss, Teonna’s journey will inspire strength and courage, echoing the broader struggles of Indigenous communities.

The episode culminates in a powerful message about survival and identity. The closing moments, accompanied by a voiceover from Elsa Dutton, resonate with contemporary issues, drawing parallels between the historical context of the show and present-day realities. Both Spears and Gauna highlight the importance of raising awareness about the ongoing challenges faced by Indigenous peoples, including the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) crisis.

As fans prepare for the two-hour season finale set to air on April 4, 2025, the emotional stakes have never been higher. The characters’ journeys, marked by loss and resilience, remind viewers of the importance of understanding and honoring Indigenous histories. “1923” not only entertains but also educates, inviting audiences to engage with the stories that have long been marginalized.

With the promise of a climactic conclusion ahead, “1923” continues to be a significant cultural touchstone, blending gripping storytelling with vital social commentary. As we reflect on the heart-wrenching events of this episode, it becomes clear that the legacy of these characters will resonate far beyond the screen.