Among the weekly television spectacles that captivate my attention, "Why Women Kill" stands as a decadent indulgence. The sheer joy I derived from "Desperate Housewives" and the countless episodes of "Sex and the City" I binged with my (now estranged) wife, speak volumes about how effortlessly captivating this genre can be. It gracefully maneuvers between the razor's edge of dark comedy and drama, laced with mischievous romance that keeps the narrative tantalizingly afloat. This week, with an intriguingly updated storyline in 2019, "Why Women Kill" sharpens its blades, anticipating the inevitable casualties that await our husbands.
The narrative commences with a charming vignette, where our trio of ladies reminisce about love in their childhood innocence, before the camera pans to the present. In 1963, Alice belts out a tune at an audition, while Beth Ann observes from the sidelines. Upon securing a performance, she informs Beth Ann of the necessity of her presence, adding a surprising twist - she's bringing Rob along. Beth Ann hesitates to meet him, sensing something amiss, but dismisses her intuition. Back at home, Beth Ann confides in Sheila about April, admitting that she's losing her grip. The conversation is interrupted by Rob's arrival, bearing two tickets to the World Series - ironically, scheduled for the same evening as April's gig. He intends to accompany her, but a call from April at their home prompts Beth Ann to fake a stomachache and stay behind.
As Rob exits the house, Beth Ann sneaks a call to April, witnessing her performance, and soon learning that April is smitten with Rob. Just as Beth Ann declares April as the best friend she's ever had, Rob appears at April's apartment. She hastily retreats to the bathroom, eavesdropping on April and Rob's conversation. April confesses her love for him, but he resolutely refuses to abandon his wife, leaving Beth Ann devastated by the revelation.
In 1984, Tommy and Simone find themselves hopelessly lost on their way to a motel. After Simone inquiries for directions, they realize they're on Pike Street. Unfortunately, as Simone leans into the car to inform Tommy, a nearby police officer mistakes her for a prostitute and arrests her. After explaining the truth about their affair, he releases her with a stern warning.
Back at his abode, Karl cunningly deduces that Simone is indulging in an affair, yet she remains tight-lipped as he teasingly probes for clues about her secret lover. Despite his diligent inquiries, Simone remains unwavering. Then, Tommy extends an invitation to Simone, offering a chance to meet at his deserted home. However, their rendezvous is swiftly interrupted by Tommy's mother's unexpected return, creating an uncomfortable scene that compels Simone to call upon Karl for assistance. He rushes to the scene, colliding his car with Joyce's in a calculated move, enabling Simone to escape. However, as she flees, she unexpectedly encounters Karl, and her guilt becomes evident. He realizes with certainty that her affair is with Tommy.
Returning home, the couple delves into their relationship, and Karl appears unfazed by her betrayal, even teasing her about Tommy's youthful appearance. Yet, Simone is displeased, her thirst for a possessive husband who would react violently to another man's intrusion remains unsatisfied. She throws her drink at him, despite his claim of being her closest friend.
In 2019, Jade tidies her belongings while Eli struggles with his writing, which his agent expects the following day, yet it's still a work in progress. She requests a glimpse of his script, and he reluctantly yields. Meanwhile, Taylor shares news of her living arrangements with her sisters, sparking curiosity about Jade and Eli's budding relationship. Jade offers candid feedback on the script's protagonist, suggesting ways to enhance the narrative's proactivity. Her insights inspire Eli, igniting his creativity. After dozing off at his desk, Jade administers a stimulant to keep him alert. After delivering the script to his agent, he returns home, embracing Jade as he learns that his work is among his finest. The moment ignites a passionate kiss between them.
As the episode draws to a close, our trio of ladies gaze into a mirror, catching a glimpse of their youthful selves. Midway through this ten-episode series, "Why Women Kill" continues to seamlessly intertwine its three narratives, reminiscent of the seamless editing from earlier episodes. Although there are moments of lull, particularly in the 2019 storyline, "Why Women Kill" predominantly delivers captivating drama. The comedy is also razor-sharp, with Karl's witty remarks about Tommy standing out as the series' best jokes. We leave the narrative open-ended, with significant questions hanging over the fates of our trio of male characters.
