In "Serious Mothering," themes the show is trying to display is coming to life in this season's second episode. One of the main themes is bravery. Ziggy going back to school after the accusation, Ed standing up to his wife about a relationship that ended fifteen years prior, Madeleine confronting Renata about a birthday party, etc. These characters show exemplary acts of bravery in this episode. The tension is unreal during this episode. I had to double check to see that no act of murder was secretly committed behind everyone's backs. This episode proved that the pilot was no fluke. I am truly immersed in everyone's lives now.
People often compare Madeleine to Witherspoon's character in Election, but all grown up. She is the busy bee who needs to be at the center of attention. Her loyalty to her friends is unwavering, but some people do not like her kind of craziness. Just ask Bonnie or the guy directing traffic. Here, she stands up to Renata after she discovers Ziggy has been denied an invitation to Annabella's birthday party. She calls it unfair and protests the party, and she won't even allow her own Chloe to attend. In terms of Celeste, we see how deep the domestic abuse runs. It is one of those simmering, slow burns that terrifies you and makes you feel for Celeste. The tension is unreal just watching Perry pack his suitcase. Then you see how this domestic abuse turns into throes of passion. This is a reminder that domestic abuse comes in all shapes and forms. Will her suggestions of therapy help?
In the last episode, Adam Scott's Ed was just a supportive husband with nothing much to lean on. This episode is a whole different story. He tells his wife to stop harping on a relationship that ended a long time ago and questions her love. He also stands up to Nathan which creates even more tensions between the families. Jane is still a mystery. It is clear she is running away from something but exactly who or what is she running away from? Ziggy asks about his father. Jane shunts those questions aside.
Overall, this is another fantastic episode. The performances remain the highlight of the series. Witherspoon and Kidman are wowing me with their works. Did someone say Emmy Awards? Despite the rising amount of tensions, director Vallee does interject some moments of levity. Once again, I like how this is a story about everyday lives within a family, not really about the murder. Although, I am fascinated about the case. Also, the editing of this series has been nothing short of excellent. And I love the California landscape views!
My Grade: A-
