Episode 7 of A Gentleman In Moscow begins with a resounding clang of bells, rudely interrupting the Count's peaceful slumber. The news of Stalin's demise has sent shockwaves through the hotel, and Bishop emerges from his quarters, visibly shaken. He strides into the main lobby with determination, urging the staff to raise a toast to their fallen "glorious leader" before resuming their duties amidst the hotel's usual bustle and bluster.
Amidst the commotion, a surprising sight emerges. Mishka, miraculously still alive, staggers out of a snow-covered train carriage and hobbles towards the hotel. Our focus remains fixed on the Count, however, as he gracefully descends to the bar area where Sofia arrives, her tardiness excused by her participation in a piano competition - which she has triumphantly won!
As part of her prize, Sofia is offered a coveted spot on the Conservatory's tour of Europe, a journey that promises to whisk her away to the allure of Paris and various other countries, culminating in a final destination in Minsk. Rostov's pride for her accomplishment is palpable, yet a shadow of unease lingers as he realizes he cannot accompany her on her adventuresome journey.
Bishop continues to tighten his grip on the hotel, making sweeping changes to the menu and enforcing his strict rules with an iron fist. Rostov is summoned and chastised for his indulgence in "degenerate music" - Beethoven and the Blues, now banned under Stalin's regime - and sternly warned to toe the line.
Yet, despite these reminders of the old order, it's evident that the winds of change are blowing through the hotel, rustling the curtains and whispering in the corners. In the noisy bar area, Richard, a spy in disguise, voices his concerns about the uncertain future of US-Russia relations, his words mingling with the chatter and clink of glasses. The stage is set for a new chapter in the story of this unique gentleman trapped in Moscow, where the old and the new collide in a drama that is both thrilling and poignant.
A highly anticipated gathering of top-tier officials is imminent, and Richard holds Rostov's fate in his hands. He entices Rostov with a mission that borders on treason - to snoop and relay crucial insights into Russia's future. If Rostov agrees to spy on his own homeland, Richard promises to secure a bright future for Sofia, one that she deserves.
Later that evening, Rostov confides in Anna, pondering over the seductive offer and America's reputation as a "promised land." Their conversation is interrupted by a phone call, urgently summoning Rostov downstairs. There, he finds Mishka, shivering and bedraggled, a stark contrast to his usual vigor.
Mishka, having endured the horrors of the prison camps, is brought up to Rostov's room. His eyes reveal a soul weary and jaded, convinced that there is no hope for a better tomorrow. As Rostov sleeps, his dreams are haunted by nightmarish visions of Russia's widespread misery - a chilling omen perhaps?
While Mishka recovers, Osip unexpectedly arrives at the hotel, joining his wife for dinner in the restaurant's cozy ambience. After their meal, he excuses himself to meet with Rostov in the cellar. With the leadership meeting looming large, Osip implores Rostov's assistance in identifying the key figures who will be in attendance. The stakes are high, and Rostov's role in this intricate game could change the course of Russia's future.
Osip's anxiety is mounting as the prospect of Khruschev seizing power looms large. If he does, the entire establishment will be purged, leaving no one safe...including Osip himself. On the other hand, Malenkov offers a safer option, promising to maintain the current order, making him a more appealing ally.
This predicament places Rostov in a precarious situation, as he's now obligated to collaborate with both the American spy and Osip, providing them with vital information. His future aspirations are also clouded by doubt and confusion, leading him to seek solace in Anna. However, his worries for their safety cause him to push her away, despite her assurances of their unwavering love and commitment to their mission.
As Anna and Rostov prepare for their risky espionage operation, with Rostov equipped with a hidden recording device, Bishop summons Sofia to his office, his demeanor filled with pompousness. He's the stereotypical boss who bullies his subordinates to boost his ego, and Sofia finds herself increasingly irritated by his antics.
Bishop has obviously done his homework, as he casually mentions Nina and her fateful end. He knows they were taken to a prison camp and perished there, using this information to unsettle Sofia further.
The esteemed gathering proceeds smoothly under the guidance of the leaders, yet Bishop's persistent interruptions have cast a shadow over Sofia's composure. Despite his efforts to provoke her, taunting her while she performs on the piano, Sofia remains unwavering, refusing to be drawn into his trap. Bishop's disappointment is evident as he watches her steadfastness.
Meanwhile, upstairs, Rostov manages to maintain his composure, but he uncovers a chilling truth. The reins of power in the country are slowly shifting towards Khruschev's grasp. Later that evening, when Osip learns of this revelation, he approaches Rostov, now sharing a mutual understanding of the downfall of the monarchy. The two men shake hands, parting ways with a heavy heart, as Rostov expresses his wish for Osip to receive a fair trial, something he himself denied to so many others.
As Mishka departs from the hotel, Anna and Rostov engage in a profound conversation. "It's time to escape this madhouse," Rostov declares, their eyes reflecting the urgency and determination to seek a better future.
