The sophomore season of HBO's poignant dramedy "Somebody Somewhere" graces our screens with its premiere episode titled "NNP," a masterpiece in nuanced storytelling and character progression. Resuming several months after the season one cliffhanger, the episode delves into the intricate tapestry of Sam and Joel's burgeoning friendship, amidst the familiar yet ever-changing backdrop of Manhattan, Kansas.
The episode opens with the dynamic duo of Sam and Joel occupying center stage, now embodying a "marriage of convenience" as Joel frequently finds himself crashing on Sam's couch, having rented out his own abode on Airbnb. This unique living arrangement serves as a testament to the unbreakable bond they've forged, and it's delightful to behold their seamless camaraderie as they traverse the quotidian together. From playful sparring sessions in the park to an unfortunate mishap involving Airbnb guests, their shared experiences are replete with laughter and a light-heartedness that stands in stark juxtaposition to the weightier themes of mourning and loss that underpin the series' narrative.
Elsewhere, Tricia's life undergoes a dramatic transformation with the shutdown of her Tender Moments store and her daughter Shannon's departure to college. This leaves her grappling with the bittersweet reality of an empty nest and the crumbling foundations of her marriage. The invitation extended to Sam and Joel to join her for dinner serves as a poignant reminder of the intricate sisterly bond between Sam and Tricia. Though they may not be best friends, there exists a mutual respect and a familial love that persists despite their myriad differences. The dinner scene stands as a quintessential illustration of the show's prowess in blending humor with raw, unfiltered emotion, as Tricia's vulnerability interlaces with her sharp wit.
One of the most remarkable facets of "Somebody Somewhere" lies in its authenticity, particularly in its depiction of laughter and humor. Unlike many shows, the characters in this series are privy to the jokes, fostering a sense of relatability and intimacy that draws viewers into their vibrant world. This is manifest in the way Sam and Joel elicit laughter from each other, enhancing the realism of their friendship and rendering their interactions all the more endearing and captivating.
The episode climbs to its heart-wrenching climax as Sam, immersed in the soul-stirring task of clearing out her father's barn, is overwhelmed by the emotional burden. Upon discovering her father's hat, she collapses onto his workbench, her face bathed in a stream of tears. In a poignant gesture of their burgeoning closeness, she reaches out to Joel, requesting his company on the phone for a moment of shared vulnerability. "He cherished this place," she confides, "and now, it feels like I'm encapsulating his entire life into boxes." Though she foresaw that dismantling the barn would shred her father's heart, she "never anticipated it would tear [hers] apart too." This exquisite scene, frozen in time with a static camera and seamless continuity, encapsulates Sam's raw emotions. Akin to the poignant dinner at Tricia's, this tableau conveys volumes: it underscores the profound bond between Sam and Joel, revealing her willingness to be openly fragile with him, and resonates with a cardinal theme of the series – the unwavering primacy of family.
However, the scene's most profound emotional blow stems from a deeper layer of the Ed narrative. Mike Hagerty, who portrayed Ed, tragically passed away before the filming of season two. Rather than abruptly ending Ed's character arc, Somebody Somewhere elegantly addresses Hagerty's absence by sending Ed on an indefinite journey. This subtle yet graceful decision handles the reality of Hagerty's demise with tenderness and respect, preserving the show's sensitive and reverent tone.
"NNP" stands as a testament to Somebody Somewhere's exceptional ability to intertwine humor with heartache, delving into the subtle shades of grief and loss while still cultivating joy in life's simplest pleasures. This episode serves as a heartfelt reminder that life is an intricate tapestry of connections, and it is within these bonds that we discover our strength and our laughter. As the second season unfolds, it becomes evident that Somebody Somewhere will persist as a beacon of authenticity and emotional depth, a show that cherishes the significance of community and the transformative power of friendship in the face of life's adversities.
