Released on Netflix Feb. 9, part one of “You” season four follows murderer Joe Goldberg, who now calls himself “Jonathan Moore” (Penn Badgely), as he starts his new — and ideally peaceful — life as a professor in London. But, much to his dismay, Joe quickly finds himself in more complex and threatening situations than he could have imagined. 

As a huge Penn Badgely and “You” fan, I could not wait for the first part of this season. Despite me counting down the days until the release of the new episodes, I barely kept up with any updates and promotional material for the show along the way. With no idea of what to expect throughout this new journey, this part of “You” managed to distinguish itself from past seasons. It was surprising to watch Joe’s persistence in being a different person now that he’s left the United States. I could tell how content he was with his newfound identity and how much willpower he utilized in maintaining this persona. Joe had an entirely different role this season — beyond his new name. Rather than watch Joe become obsessed with a new woman, hunting down anyone in his path, we watch him become the stalked. 

Through an unexpected murder and odd — yet incredibly personal — messages, Joe finds himself forced to infiltrate the wealthy and notable members of London society to prevent havoc from breaking out all around him. Despite the show being all about murder, this season did an exceptional job blending its serious and gruesome aspects with comedy and irony that made me laugh out loud. It was addicting, and I’ve already found myself rewatching part one, especially for Joe’s commentary. 

Though a lot of viewers felt let down by the change in direction of “You,” I embraced it. Had the concept been the exact same as past seasons, I would’ve rolled my eyes at its predictability and redundancy. I understand the “whodunnit” concept is overdone (and usually poorly), and the last episode of part one felt incomplete, but I urge viewers to maintain hope. There’s still another half of the season coming out March 9, and if everything were to feel perfectly wrapped up, there wouldn’t be much of a reason for a second part. With another five episodes left to air, I have hopes that “You” will, as always, bring a plot twist full of surprise to its viewers.

Though “You” part one of season four goes in an entirely different direction than seasons 1-3, it continues to be an addicting show, filling me with hope for what part two will hold.