Summary
Monse’s back!
This recap of Netflix’s On My Block season 4, episode 3 contains spoilers.
Read the recap for the previous episode.
On My Block season 4, episode 3 recap
In preparation for Christmas, everyone seems to be in a joyful mood and the glue of the group, Monse, is back in town! At the Christmas celebrations, Oscar is with Ruby’s family as they talk about their plans with Isabel, their baby and leaving Freeridge. He notes that once he’s done with Freeridge, he’s not coming back and not even for Cesar, much to Ruby’s surprise.
At Monse’s house, she catches up with her father and discusses her experiences at her boarding school. In the scene, it feels like maybe Monse has come into true self as she mentions that her time at high school was problematic and now not everything she says or does “has to go through a testosterone filter”, which was obviously a dig at the boys.
As annoying as she can be, it’s nice to know that she feels more comfortable around other girls as she says “I know it’s only been two years but I feel like I finally found my people.” Let’s just hope it stays that way until her life gets upended with the boys and the RollerWorld mystery. Unlucky for her, her parents are throwing a Christmas party at her house and invited Ruby and Jamal’s families, with the hope that Ruby and Jamal can attend too. She asks about Cesar’s invitation and her father mentions that he only invited her friends, clearly indicating how he feels about Cesar.
Now, the boys are in a frenzy about her party — Ruby wants to attend to make sure that they are in a good place and drama-free, meanwhile, Jamal is worried and has negative feelings about the party. Ruby and Jasmine are going through a rough patch and he’s still worried about being around her. Instead, she drops off some gifts for Ruby’s parents and tells them that she’s going to Monse’s party. That alone ignited a response and persuaded Ruby to attend the Christmas party. Jamal clearly still feels resentment or embarrassment from Monse and doesn’t want to confront the reality of growing up and moving on. I think Jamal was the friend that was always there to support his friends, so it’s easy to see why he is upset. Meanwhile, at the party, Ruby’s parents beg Jasmine to take him back because of how annoying he’s become. In addition to this, Monse and Jasmine reunite as she gives her the lowdown of everything she missed after moving away to school. Both Ruby and Jasmine seek advice from Jamal and Monse about their ex-relationships.
At the shop with Jasmine on their conquest to purchase drinks, she crosses paths with Cesar and his current girlfriend, Vero, who is clearly threatened by Monse. It was this scene that reminds us that the worst has yet to come… will they end up together again? Will Vero be a problem (probably) and how will Monse overcome everything? In a flashback scene, Monse is sitting in the back of Cesar’s car during a drop and she witnesses him beat up a rival gang member. In the present, she explains to Jasmine that it was painful because she didn’t think Cesar was changing. She thought could save him but had to accept the situation for what it was and most importantly, chose herself over a guy.
We also learn that the money Cesar is earning is to pay Ruby, Jamal, and Monse back after their RollerWorld money got stolen. So, maybe he does have a heart. In another flashback scene, Monse is yelling at Cesar for not calling 911 after beating up the rival, and from there, it was clear that they were not going back to who they were. He tells her he loves her but it’s not enough as she questions “you love me enough to make me an accessory to assault? To put my future in jeopardy, is that love?” and it was this part that solidified my support for Monse, she loves herself enough to know that her relationship with Cesar could ruin her life and future prospects. And of course, Cesar tries to shame her into not being a ‘ride or die’ and she powerfully tells him straight “I’m not, Cesar, because the truth is, unlike you, I don’t wanna die.” That scene alone was enough to make me Team Monse and is the reason for my 5 stars, seeing a girl finally put herself first instead of supporting a guy that could ruin her future.
The ending
Towards the end of the episode, Jasmine is at home with Monse, talking to her about Ruby and how their relationship keeps her from not having negative thoughts. Jamal is chilling with Abuelita as usual and of course, Ruby comes over after Monse leaves to keep her company but she stands her ground, mentioning she’s in a new relationship with herself! This episode is a win for the girls because of how they chose themselves first. The only downside is Monse not being able to go back to Mayfield and Abuleita’s illness.
What did you think of On My Block season 4, episode 3? Comment below.
