In the gripping eighth episode of Tulsa King's second season, titled "Under New Management," the narrative undertakes a dramatic shift as the tenuous truce between Dwight Manfredi and Bill Bevilaqua crumbles, paving the way for an inevitable clash. The episode kicks off with the reverberations of Tyson's impulsive act of discharging his weapon at Bill's capo, Vic Aliotto, a move Dwight had fiercely warned against. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Dwight acknowledges that there's no turning back the hands of time; the confrontation with Kansas City has become an inevitability.
Confronted with Tyson's irrevocable disruption of the delicate power equilibrium, Dwight steels himself to confront the impending storm. Bill, now apprised of Dwight's men's culpability in the assault on Vic, vows not to remain passive. His fury is unmistakable, and he is resolute in his mission to eliminate Dwight, marking the end of their frivolous games. Dwight, in response, reprimands Tyson for his recklessness, emphasizing the significance of family unity and the repercussions of acting independently of the chain of command. Tyson, initially anticipating severe reprisal, is instead overwhelmed by Dwight's words and the realization that, despite his mistakes, he remains an integral part of the family.
Meanwhile, Dwight grapples with the agonizing decision to relocate Christina back to New York, his heart heavy with concern for her safety amidst the looming war. Christina, though pained by the separation, comprehends the gravity of the situation and the potential for permanent damage. She departs without bidding farewell to her father, determined not to let her emotions sway her resolve. Dwight, startled by her abrupt departure, reluctantly accepts the stark reality that he must brace himself for the impending battle, uncertain of its outcome.
Vince, who has been scheming against Chickie, the syndicate's leader, finally makes his move in episode 8. With the backing of various mafia family heads, Vince confronts Chickie, accusing him of reckless decisions and poor judgments that have cost the syndicate dearly. Chickie, though aware of Vince's intentions, is taken aback by the swiftness of the confrontation. He is charged with sending Dwight to Tulsa out of personal insecurity, a move that has unleashed the current turmoil. Despite his anger, Chickie acknowledges that he must relinquish his power, as he cannot defy the syndicate's will. However, it is evident that Chickie's departure from the throne does not mark the end of his tale; his potential alliances with Thresher and Bill add an intricate layer to the brewing conflict, promising a twisted and unpredictable path ahead.
Bill strikes the first blow in the simmering conflict, his cronies unleashing a hail of bullets upon Bodhi and Jimmy, casting an ominous shadow over Jimmy's future. Meanwhile, Thresher's reign crumbles as Jackie Ming assumes command of his domain, a fall orchestrated by Thresher's inability to reign in Jackie and his own impulsive deeds. In a desperate lunge for reinforcement, Thresher confesses to Bill that Jackie's men were the ones who planted the bomb in Dwight's automobile. Yet, Bill's fury towards Thresher's recklessness only fuels the blaze of escalating tensions.
Armand, driven to the brink of desperation, makes a harrowing choice that could very well seal his fate. Having betrayed Dwight's trust and disclosed confidential information to Cal Thresher, Armand knows his days are numbered. He attempts to flee, first by pleading with his wife to join him as a state witness, but she坚决地拒绝了他的请求. Desperately seeking funds, he turns to Thresher, who responds with scorn and disgrace. With all other avenues blocked, Armand resorts to theft, holding Dwight's money at gunpoint, fully cognizant that this bold act may spell his doom. Goodie's grim warning that Armand is signing his own death warrant echoes truthfully, as his actions set him on a perilous path towards a confrontation with Dwight.
"Under New Management" marks a crucial turning point where alliances are torn asunder, power balances shift dramatically, and the specter of a full-scale war looms larger than ever. Dwight's leadership is put to the ultimate test as he navigates the treacherous waters of betrayal, loyalty, and the looming shadow of violence. With stakes towering to unprecedented heights, the episode leaves viewers on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating the next thrilling chapter in the saga of Tulsa King.
