The revelation of Dan's role in Keith's death in "That '70s Show" is a pivotal moment, unfolding gradually and adding layers of complexity to the storyline. It's not a single, explosive reveal but rather a process of discovery and confirmation spread across multiple episodes and seasons. Let's break down the timeline and explore the various perspectives.
How Does the Audience Find Out?
The audience doesn't discover Dan's culpability in Keith's death all at once. It's a slow burn, pieced together through hints, suspicions, and eventual confessions. The show strategically uses flashbacks and revelations to build the suspense and impact of this crucial plot point. The exact timing differs depending on whether you are considering the initial suspicions or the ultimate confirmation.
What are the Key Moments?
Several moments throughout the series contribute to the audience's gradual understanding of Dan's involvement:
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Initial Hints and Suspicions: Even before a clear confession, the show subtly plants seeds of doubt about Dan's actions surrounding Keith's death. Viewers might notice inconsistencies in his stories or pick up on his anxious behavior. These small details create a sense of unease and anticipation.
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Red Herrings: The show cleverly employs red herrings to mislead the audience, creating false leads and alternative suspects. This enhances the suspense and keeps viewers guessing until the truth is finally revealed.
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Confessions and Revelations: Eventually, Dan makes partial or full confessions, either directly or indirectly. These moments aren't always straightforward; there might be denials, evasions, or attempts to minimize his responsibility.
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Flashbacks: Key flashbacks illustrating Dan's actions and the events leading to Keith's death are strategically placed to gradually reveal the truth to the audience.
When Do the Characters Find Out?
The timing of the characters' discovery also varies:
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Initial Suspicions among Characters: Some characters might suspect Dan earlier than others, picking up on subtle cues or inconsistencies in his stories. Their suspicions might be fueled by their own personal experiences with Dan.
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Confessions to Specific Characters: Dan's confessions might not be made to everyone simultaneously. He might confess to one character before another, creating further tension and conflict within the group.
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Gradual Revelation: The full truth might not be revealed to everyone at once. It could be a process of discovery and confirmation, with characters learning different pieces of the puzzle at different times.
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Impact of the Revelation on Characters: Each character’s reaction to learning about Dan’s involvement is unique, further enriching the story.
What are the Long-Term Effects of the Revelation?
The revelation significantly impacts the characters' relationships and the overall narrative of the series. The consequences of Dan's actions reverberate through the show, shaping future events and character arcs. It's not simply a plot point; it’s a catalyst for significant changes and growth.
This explanation provides a framework for understanding the revealing process, acknowledging the complexity and dramatic effect intentionally woven into the show's narrative. The precise timing within the series requires referencing specific episodes and seasons, but the overall gradual uncovering of the truth is a central aspect of the show's storytelling.
