In the third installment of "Hacks" Season 3, titled "The Roast of Deborah Vance," the narrative dives headfirst into the rarefied world of comedy roasts, a realm where humor is a double-edged sword and no target remains unscathed. The episode kicks off with Ava, brilliantly portrayed by Hannah Einbinder, seeking solace in meditation amidst the confines of Deborah's guest room, a time warp from 1987 to 1992, far from a serene oasis. It serves as a stark reminder of a past that Jean Smart's Deborah cannot seem to shake.
The narrative then pivots abruptly as Ava's privacy is breached by Deborah, hell-bent on honing her roast jokes. This intrusion sets the stage for the subsequent tension-filled encounters between the two leads. Ava's role as Deborah's co-writer is put to the test when she is tasked with the uncomfortable chore of dismissing Mirya and Logan, two new hires of Deborah's. This classic Deborah maneuver throws Ava into a dilemma that speaks volumes about their intricate relationship.
The roast itself is a glittering spectacle, with comedians Patton Oswalt, Natasha Leggero, and others taking the stage to needle Deborah with sharp wit. The jokes slice through the air, the audience roars, and Deborah thrives in this environment. However, the most startling performance stems from D.J., Deborah's estranged daughter, whose roast is both poignant and hilarious. The audience devours it, and for a fleeting moment, Deborah appears genuinely proud of her daughter's prowess in the world of comedy.
Beneath the humor and glitz of the roast lies a deeper emotional revelation. Kaitlin Olson's portrayal of D.J. reveals the bombshell news of her pregnancy, adding another layer of complexity to her already strained relationship with Deborah. This revelation forces Deborah to confront her past missteps and her yearning to be a part of her daughter's life in the future.
As the episode unfolds, Ava's personal life takes precedence when she confronts a shocking breakup with Ruby. The heartache is palpable, lending a layer of vulnerability to Ava's character that stands in stark contrast to her usual assuredness. Meanwhile, Deborah's relentless quest to host a late-night show encounters a new hurdle—a young male comedian is also in contention for the position.
The episode culminates with Ava relocating to Deborah's guest suite, a move that signifies a deepening of their professional and personal bond. The lines between work and privacy continue to blur, leaving the audience in suspense, wondering what new challenges and adventures await these two resilient women.
"The Roast of Deborah Vance" stands as a powerful testament to the show's mastery in blending laughter with profound emotional drama. This episode delves deeply into the intricate tapestry of family ties, unyielding ambition, and the relentless sacrifices one undertakes in the relentless quest for success. Boasting a stellar ensemble and razor-sharp scripting, "Hacks" continues to carve its unique niche in the vast television landscape, providing viewers with an intimate glimpse into the lives of two women as they navigate the fiercely competitive world of comedy with courage and resilience.
