High Potential Season 2, Episode 9: “Under the Rug”
In the gripping episode “Under the Rug” from Season 2 of High Potential, the series takes a darker turn, peeling back layers of deception and corruption. The episode opens with a shocking canyon crash that sets the stage for a complex investigation involving a hitman, a powerful tech mogul, and a law enforcement cover-up. Morgan Gillory, portrayed by Kaitlin Olson, finds herself navigating a treacherous landscape where nothing is as it seems.
The Opening Scene: A Fatal Mistake
The episode begins with Douglas Newmeyer (Keith Carradine), a wealthy industrialist, testing a new golf club at a remote cliff. His frustration leads him to angrily throw his club, unaware that he is being watched by a man with a limp through a rifle scope. This man, Curtis Behr, is soon revealed to be a hitman whose brakes are deliberately cut, sending him plummeting into the ravine below. This shocking incident serves as the catalyst for the unfolding conspiracy.
Morgan’s Personal Struggles
Back at home, Morgan is faced with personal turmoil as she receives flowers from a mysterious man named Rhys, stirring tension with her current partner, Ludo Radovic (Taran Killam). The chaos in her personal life mirrors the disorder she encounters at work, where she is called to the crash site in the Santa Monica Mountains. The juxtaposition of her domestic issues and professional challenges adds depth to her character, illustrating her resilience in the face of adversity.
Unraveling the Mystery
At the crash site, Morgan and her team uncover evidence that suggests Behr was not just a victim but part of a larger scheme. The discovery of a notebook detailing surveillance of Newmeyer and a substantial cash envelope raises questions about the motivations behind the crash. Morgan’s keen investigative skills lead her to deduce that Behr had been watching Newmeyer, and the presence of a custom, 3D-printed left-handed golf club hints at a deeper connection between the two men.
The FBI Connection
As the investigation unfolds, the LAPD discovers that Behr was actually an undercover FBI agent named Belanger. This revelation complicates the case, as Morgan and her team must now navigate the murky waters of federal involvement. Special Agent Mayra Taylor (Rebeka Montoya) briefs them on the situation, revealing that they are dealing with a joint task force and a potential conspiracy that reaches the highest levels of power.
The Investigation Deepens
Morgan’s determination to uncover the truth leads her to investigate Newmeyer’s personal life, where she discovers evidence of an affair. This new lead suggests that jealousy could be a motive for hiring a hitman. Meanwhile, the tension between Morgan and her colleagues escalates, particularly with Captain Nick Wagner (Steve Howey), who questions her methods and motivations.
A Breakthrough
The turning point comes when Morgan connects the dots between Newmeyer and Wagner, uncovering a web of deceit that implicates both men in a larger conspiracy. The episode skillfully intertwines personal and professional stakes, showcasing Morgan’s growth as she confronts the familiar sting of being underestimated.
The Climax: Justice Served
In a tense climax, Morgan presents her findings, revealing that Wagner was in Newmeyer’s pocket, using the hitman plot to eliminate threats. The episode culminates in the arrest of both men, with Morgan delivering a poignant line that encapsulates the episode’s themes: “What a shame. All that intellect wasted.” This moment not only highlights the corruption within the system but also serves as a reminder of Morgan’s own struggles against being undervalued.
Personal Reflections
As the episode closes, Morgan is left alone at the case board, reflecting on the day’s events. Her conversation with Karadec (Daniel Sunjata) reinforces her value to the team and her importance in the fight against injustice. This emotional moment underscores the personal stakes involved in her work, reminding viewers of the toll that such investigations can take.
Next Episode Preview
The following episode, titled “Grounded,” promises to delve into another complex case involving the midair murder of an Air Force veteran. As Morgan faces mandatory detective training, tensions rise between Wagner and Soto, setting the stage for further conflict and intrigue.
Musical Accompaniment
The episode features a carefully curated soundtrack, including songs like “The Jerk” by Don Julian & The Larks and “Feels Like Sunshine” by Norman, which enhance the emotional depth and intensity of the narrative.
In “Under the Rug,” High Potential masterfully combines personal and professional challenges, creating a compelling narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The episode not only advances the overarching plot but also deepens our understanding of Morgan Gillory as a character, making it a standout installment in the series.
