The second installment of the sixth season of "What We Do in the Shadows," aptly subtitled "Headhunting," serves up a delightful blend of humor and horror that has endeared itself to the hearts of its avid fans. This episode stands as a testament to the show's unique prowess in intertwining the mundane aspects of everyday life with the macabre, ensuring that laughter remains a constant companion. As we venture into the corridors of corporate America through the perspective of our beloved vampires and their familiar, we are presented with a narrative that is equally heartfelt and hair-raising.
The episode commences with Laszlo, played to perfection by the talented Matt Berry, who has dusted off the cobwebs from his lab and is poised to embark on a fresh scientific endeavor. His mission? To breathe new life into deceased flesh, a quest that has haunted him since his Civil War days. Laszlo's lab is a cornucopia of quirks and curiosities, and his unwavering passion for his work is both charming and slightly eerie. His repeated setbacks only ignite his resolve, as he jokes, "If repetition is indeed the father of progress, then you can call me Big Papa." This sets the stage for an episode rich with dark humor and a hint of madness.
Next, we are introduced to Guillermo's new avatar as a finance executive at Cannon Capital Strategies. His transition from being a vampire familiar to a mailroom clerk is both unexpected and enchanting. Guillermo's ambition and dogged determination to carve a niche in the human realm stand in stark contrast to his vampire family's endeavors to ensure his bliss, even if it entails resorting to drastic measures. This includes Nadja's decision to eliminate Wendy, Guillermo's coworker, to pave the way for his success. It serves as a stark reminder that, despite living among humans, Guillermo remains deeply entwined with the vampire world.
Meanwhile, Laszlo and Colin Robinson's quest to find the ideal head for Cravensworth's Monster unfolds through a series of comic encounters. From a man with less-than-appealing ears to another who remained unmoved by "Good Will Hunting," the selection process is as absurd as it is exhilarating. The eventual choice, a man with a penchant for Latin jazz, leads to a predictable yet amusing conclusion.
Nadja's metamorphosis into an '80s-era businesswoman, as she navigates the treacherous waters of the financial world, presents a spectacle that captivates the eye. Her encounters with Guillermo and his colleagues oscillate between terrifying and laugh-out-loud hilarious, as she deftly wields her vampire powers to orchestrate situations in Guillermo's favor. Her ruthless elimination of Wendy and seamless assumption of her role epitomize how "What We Do in the Shadows" excels at twisting familiar tropes and presenting them in a novel light.
The episode delves into the extraordinary lengths the vampires go to ensure Guillermo's happiness and forestall any potential betrayal. Nandor's bumbling attempts at janitorial duties and Nadja's ruthless yet strategic management tactics reveal their unwavering commitment to keeping Guillermo on their side, even if it means stepping far beyond their usual comfort zones.
As the episode approaches its climax, we witness the culmination of Colin Robinson's tireless efforts with Cravensworth's Monster. The creature's apparent docility stands in stark contrast to Laszlo's previous abortive attempts, serving as a testament to Colin Robinson's unwavering determination. However, a final twist reveals the monster's true nature, one that is both predictably shocking and deeply satisfying.
"Headhunting" is a masterpiece that seamlessly blends absurdity with heartfelt moments. It underscores the show's prowess in taking common storylines and injecting them with a unique blend of humor and horror. This episode is a love letter to fans, replete with sharp-witted dialogue, memorable one-liners, and performances that are nothing short of mesmerizing. It serves as a reminder that "What We Do in the Shadows" transcends being merely a show about vampires; it is a profound exploration of the human condition, told through the unique perspective of the undead.
