Summary
Episode 4 may not be the most dramatic, but it gives insight into how the Queen struggled to maintain a monarchy in a changing world in the 90s.
We give a royal recap of the Netflix series The Crown season 5, episode 4, “Annus Horribilis,” which will contain spoilers, so be warned!
The Crown season 5, episode 4 is a rather personal chapter for Queen Elizabeth II (Imelda Staunton). Perhaps the most intimate of the season so far. There’s an admission of failure and an emotional toll resting on her shoulders as she has to come to terms with the institution she holds slowly falling apart.
The Crown season 5, episode 4 recap
The Crown season 5, episode 4 opens up with Queen Elizabeth II preparing herself for a speech after 40 years on the throne. After a fire at Windsor Castle, the media reports that Elizabeth has plenty to say after recent events. Elizabeth has a lot of personal turmoil to endure with herself and within the Royal Family. Subsequent scenes show Elizabeth almost in a depressive state, self-pitying herself.
Princess Margaret takes part in a radio interview, picking different songs for the audience and talking about “first loves” and life. Peter Townsend (Timothy Dalton), a man who hoped to marry Margaret one day, writes to her, asking if they can meet. Margaret and Elizabeth discuss Peter, wondering where he is now and what he is doing. Years have passed since they last met. Margaret’s one true love.
Prince Andrew meets Elizabeth to talk about his marriage. He wants to get a divorce, which shocks Elizabeth. Andrew digresses and talks about “The System” within the institution.
Margaret talks to Peter at an event, and they enjoy a dance together to jazz. Spirits are suddenly high as they want each other’s company. Margaret is the life of the party again, giving her speeches and singing on the piano. Peter looks on lovingly. Afterward, Peter tells Margaret that he kept her letters and wishes to return them to her, so they are safe. Margaret returns home and reads the letters, reminiscing a love that should have been if it was not for the institution. Later in the episode, Peter asks Margaret if their love was fleeting or lasting. Margaret does not answer, so Peter kisses her before walking off.
Princess Anne tells Elizabeth she wishes to marry Tim (Commander Laurence). Elizabeth tries to tell Anne to be patient, but she pushes back and insists that she will marry Tim.
Prince Charles feels there’s too much damage between him and Princess Diana after the Andrew Morton book. He asks Elizabeth if he can have a separation. Elizabeth tells Charles that he will be the King one day, and he is in a special category. Charles lists family members and their divorces. Elizabeth is struggling to keep the Royal Family together and honor the sanctity of marriage.
And then it gets worse for the Queen; Windsor Castle is on fire. Elizabeth visits the castle to see the damage, but the fire crew is struggling to bring down the flames; there’s a lot of damage. Prince Philip joins her on the site and hugs an emotional Elizabeth in a rare moment.
The Crown season 5, episode 4 ending – what caused the fire at Windsor castle?
Elizabeth tells Margaret that a fuse blew at Windsor, which caused a fire. Margaret lists the people that could have burned down her home at Windsor Castle, including Diana and Andrew. She lists herself and tells her it could have been her because Elizabeth denied her love for Peter. Margaret compares to Princess Anne and how their situations are exact, but Anne gets to marry the love of her life, and she doesn’t. She cannot believe Elizabeth is still not accepting her part to play in the loss of her love.
Queen Mother tells Elizabeth that she cannot make the speech that she’s written up for the 40th Anniversary because people will “forgive and forget.” The Queen Mother does not want the Royal Family to admit their failings and that she should not owe anyone an apology. Prince Philip defends Elizabeth and states that they must support her unconditionally.
And so, at the end of The Crown season 5, episode 4, the Queen delivers her 40th Anniversary speech. She admits 1992 is not the year she is proud of; she pays tribute to her family for all their sacrifices.
Elizabeth and Margaret talk on the phone afterward and reconcile.
Episode 4 may not be the most dramatic, but it gives insight into how the Queen struggled to maintain a monarchy in a changing world in the 90s.
What did you think of The Crown season 5, episode 4? Comment below.
