In the third installment of Somebody Somewhere's sophomore season, titled "SLS," the narrative delves further into the nuanced realms of vulnerability, self-discovery, and the intricate tapestry of human connections. Sam (portrayed by Bridget Everett) embarks on a profound journey during her vocal sessions with Darlene Edwards, uncovering layers of self-doubt and emotional baggage that have long been buried. Meanwhile, Joel (Jeff Hiller) finds himself entangled in his own spiritual odyssey and the ramifications of presiding over Fred and Susan's wedding.
The episode unfolds with Sam's return to vocal lessons, a landscape that feels both alien and daunting to her. Her body language, as she steps into Darlene's home, speaks volumes of her inner turmoil—a cocktail of nervous anticipation and discomfort. This is a frontier Sam has never ventured into, accustomed as she is to keeping her emotions tightly coiled.
The lesson initiates with Darlene urging Sam to unleash her voice freely. Sam selects the jazz classic "That's All," a choice that showcases Everett's vocal mastery and Sam's self-awareness, her eyes shut tight throughout her performance. Darlene's reaction is one of awe and nostalgia, reminiscing about Sam's "rich and mature" voice from their high school days. She labels Sam's voice as "special," a compliment that Sam finds difficult to embrace. Instead, she swiftly defaults to self-deprecation, insisting that she cannot sing "Ave Maria" due to the perceived heaviness of her voice. Darlene's gentle perseverance and unwavering belief in Sam's abilities underscore her patience and kindness, qualities that are vital as Sam confronts her deep-seated insecurities.
As the lessons unfold, Sam repeatedly invokes Darlene's past critique—"We have our work cut out for us"—revealing the profound impact of Darlene's words from their high school days. Sam's self-deprecation serves as a shield, a preemptive strike against the lingering pain of past judgments. Darlene's astonishment and subsequent reassurance that Sam's voice is not heavy but "rich, full" marks a turning point in their relationship. It stands as a testament to the profound impact of words and the crucial importance of nurturing, rather than undermining, one's talent.
Parallel to Sam's narrative thread, Joel's spiritual odyssey steals the spotlight. His internal battle to officiate Fred and Susan's wedding amidst unresolved tensions with his faith serves as a poignant undercurrent. Fred's reassuring words that Joel's role in the ceremony hinges on their friendship, rather than his religious standing, offer Joel a refreshing perspective. It serves as a gentle reminder that life's most profound moments often transcend grand gestures, focusing instead on the individuals who hold our hearts.
The emotional pinnacle of the episode unfolds during Sam's third lesson, where her emotional defenses crumble like sandcastles under the relentless tide of deep-breathing exercises. Darlene's innocent suggestion to breathe "as if experiencing first love" unleashes a deluge of emotions within Sam, prompting an abrupt departure. Joel, the steadfast friend, stands on the periphery, observing Sam's distress with compassion, offering a soothing presence without intruding.
The episode's most tender scenes blossom as Joel gently urges Sam to take a leisurely stroll and indulge in some ice cream, a timeless gesture symbolizing the deepening bonds of their friendship. Sam's openness to share her life's narrative and her candid admission of never having fallen in love marks a significant milestone in their relationship. This raw, unfiltered moment underscores the show's central theme: individuals grappling with their own burdens, striving their utmost with the unwavering support of those who cherish them.
The episode is interspersed with heartwarming and humorous moments, highlighting Tricia's daring venture into the event-design business and her engaging interactions with the LGBTQ+ community, which could very well pave the way for her personal evolution. Amy Sedaris' playful endorsement of Tricia's controversial "Lying Cunt" pillow on Instagram injects a dash of humor and unexpectedly propels it to success. Fred Rococo's enduring display of benevolence and wit, particularly his endearing habit of saying "hold my calls," enhances his charm, cementing his status as one of television's most endearing characters. "SLS" is an episode that dives deep into the realm of vulnerability and underscores the potent force of friendship. It illuminates the characters' growth and the intricate tapestry of their emotional odysseys. Somebody Somewhere excels at harmonizing humor with raw, unfiltered emotion, crafting a narrative that resonates deeply and showcases the quintessence of human experience. As Sam and Joel confront their respective trials, they serve as poignant reminders that our strength is often found in our moments of vulnerability, and that true friendship is not measured by grandiose gestures, but by the steadfast willingness to be present, even in the silence where words fail.
