In the fifth, deeply charged episode of Somebody Somewhere's sophomore season, aptly titled "NMB NMP," the narrative weaves through the intricate tapestry of friendship and trust, unraveling the tangled threads that emerge when secrets are harbored and assumptions take flight. Penned by Rachel Axler and brought to life by Lennon Parham's adept direction, this episode stands as a testament to masterful storytelling, encapsulating the poignant heartaches and poignant humor that have come to define the series.
The episode opens with a poignant reminder of the unparalleled bond shared by Sam (Bridget Everett) and Joel (Jeff Hiller). Their lighthearted car ride chatter about dream weddings sets the backdrop for the emotional maelstrom that lies ahead. Joel's whimsical vision of Sam belting out "Gloria" by Laura Branigan at his wedding is both hilarious and endearing, a testament to the profound depth of their camaraderie. Yet, this warmth is swiftly eclipsed by the stunning revelation of Joel's clandestine romance with Brad Schraeder, a secret he has kept from Sam. The resulting fallout is tangible; Sam's reaction, a cocktail of betrayal and hurt, leads to a poignant confrontation and Joel's subsequent exit from her abode.
Compounding Sam's anger towards Joel is the realization that he is not the sole keeper of secrets. In a harrowing twist, Sam discovers that her late sister, Holly, had concealed her cancer diagnosis from her, preferring to bear the burden in solitude. This revelation, coupled with Joel's deceit, pushes Sam to the brink of emotional collapse. The double betrayal is almost unbearable, prompting her to withdraw further into herself.
The episode also delves into Sam's endeavor to bake a funeral cake for Tricia's birthday, a cherished tradition harking back to their childhood. Despite her nascent baking skills, Sam's effort is a heartfelt tribute to her love for her sister. However, the cake's disastrous culmination mirrors the fractured relationship between the sisters. Tricia's appreciation for the gesture is overshadowed by the revelation about Holly, sparking a fiery altercation and Sam's eventual departure.
At the episode's zenith, Sam finds herself isolated in her kitchen, grappling with the tumultuous aftermath of the day's unfolding dramas. The camera lens lingeringly embraces her, capturing the profound depths of her emotional turmoil. This scene stands as a potent reminder of the series' prowess in depicting the silent, poignant moments with the same resonating force as its humorous sequences.
As Sam reflects on the cherished memories of Holly and her intricate bond with Tricia, the episode concludes on a hopeful chord. Amidst the agony and betrayal, a spark of understanding ignites, heralding the potential for mending broken hearts. Sam's choice to rest on the couch, shunning the comfort of Holly's bed, embodies her arduous journey towards progression, while still grappling with the chains of sorrow.
"NMB NMP" emerges as an episode that bares the raw, unfiltered emotions and formidable challenges tied to friendship, familial ties, and personal evolution. It serves as a testament to the show's exceptional balance between humor and heart-wrenching sorrow, offering a finely textured depiction of the multifaceted human experience. As Sam and Joel's friendship is subjected to the crucible of trials, and Sam confronts the concealed truths of her loved ones, the episode leaves viewers on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating the evolution of these intricate relationships in the forthcoming chapters.
