The highly praised Amazon Prime series graces our screens once again, embarking on its third season with a more episodic narrative that captivates from the start. This time, the story unfolds with a darker hue and a stronger comedic backbone. The opening episode masterfully sets the stage for the drama that awaits.
In the dead of night, Midge awakens and bids a tender farewell to Joel with a kiss. However, their arrival at a significant military event is belated, with the tap-dancing act already halfway through. Despite a checklist of strict instructions, Midge's attempt to inject humor into the proceedings goes haywire before she steps onto the stage. This sleek, one-shot sequence captures Midge's preparation as Susie frantically calls Fred to arrange a touring gig.
As Midge entertains the ecstatic military crowd, Sergeant Broome entices Susie to join the army, humorously calling her a "strapping young man." Yet, back on stage, Midge finishes her set but forgets to introduce Shy Baldwin, quickly rushing back to salvage what could have been a calamity.
Off-stage, Lou hands Susie a sum of money after a triumphant performance. Meanwhile, Joel and Midge engage in an awkward conversation, as Midge expects Joel to respond as a romantic partner, but his indifference creates a rift between them.
Elsewhere, Joel and Mrs. Moskowitz embark on a journey to Chinatown to scout a potential new venue for their club. With Archie on board as Creative Director, their plans are abruptly disrupted by a mysterious Chinese man dashing through a concealed door. As they descend the stairs, they are greeted by a flurry of gambling enthusiasts. One of the women, Mei, approaches them, informing them of the operation, prompting Archie to resign, leaving Joel with a perplexing situation to handle.
At home, Midge's parents struggle to make sense of their financial woes, prompting Midge to explain why Lenny sent her flowers. She snatches the vase and retires to a private corner to read the letter, while her parents continue to quarrel. Ultimately, Midge lashes out, calling Abe ignorant before grabbing her dress and changing.
Abe ventures out to catch Lenny's live performance. Unfortunately, the police intervene and escort him offstage, not before he shares his political views with the audience. Abe stands up, inquiring about the reason for his arrest, only to be thrown into a cell for his inquisitiveness.
Meanwhile, back at the army base, Midge arrives at the party and discovers that Shy and the others were not invited. It transpires that Midge was invited solely because she is a woman, there to entertain the men. Reluctantly, Susie allows her to dance, but not before informing her that she will be managing Sophie Lennon—Midge's rival. This revelation could potentially strain their already fragile relationship.
As the episode draws to a close, a silent Rose arrives and secures the release of Abe and Lenny from the police station, only to vanish into the night. The episode exemplifies the signature cinematography of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, particularly the opening one-shot sequence. The comedy is in full bloom, and the tension before Midge's performance heightens the anticipation. Fortunately, she pulls it off with aplomb, and the humorous subplot involving Susie's potential army enlistment adds a delightful touch, standing out as one of the episode's highlights. While Midge's plot progression may be subdued, the blend of stand-up comedy and the development of other characters leaves the season ahead with a promising outlook.
