5. Eli's Ready
Ever since Eli began working with Agent Tolliver, the season was leading up to a confrontation between himself and Nucky. There were some complaints that Eli's story in the latter half of the season was repeating what had come before in Season 2, but a big difference is Nucky and Eli were firmly on opposing sides throughout that season, whereas in this one the younger Thompson was very much in his brother's inner circle. What's more is the fact Eli didn't want to turn again Nucky he was unwillingly aiding Tolliver in order to protect William rather than serving his own self interests. There's more which differentiates the circumstances as well that is on a character level. There was a moment in Season 2 where Eli came begging Nucky for forgiveness only to be physically rebuffed. In 'Farewell Daddy Blues', Eli once again begged for Nucky to hear him out, but once that failed he quickly came to peace with the situation, saying to Nucky "I'm ready. Are you?" This is a stark contrast to many times we've seen Eli in the past, the one who was always unsure of himself and lacked much confidence. During his standoff with Nucky all his self-doubt was wiped away as he embraced his fate. It was a very strong character moment for Eli and Shea Whigham performed it very well.