TL;DR
- Hacks explores complex character relationships.
- The episode ‘Who’s Making Dinner?’ is emotionally impactful.
- Deborah’s past influences her present actions.
- Ava’s desire to impress Deborah is a central theme.
- The balance of humor and substance is examined.
Who knew a fictional 1970s sitcom could hit us right in the feels? That’s exactly what Hacks does in its latest episode, “Who’s Making Dinner?”. This episode, penned by Samantha Riley and directed by Lucia Aniello, dives deep into the emotional turmoil of its characters, especially Deborah Vance, played by the incomparable Jean Smart. It’s a testament to the show’s brilliance that it can make us care so much about a sitcom that never actually existed.
In a heart-wrenching moment, Ava reminds us, “Sometimes there’s just one person we wanna impress.” This sentiment resonates throughout the episode, especially for Deborah, who grapples with the haunting legacy of her cheating ex-husband, Frank Vance. Why does she still crave his validation? Because, darling, that’s just the way it goes sometimes. Her career is tangled up in his betrayal, and the emotional scars run deep.
The episode unfolds at a PaleyFest event celebrating the sitcom’s legacy, where Deborah is forced to confront her past. She can’t even speak for herself because, surprise, surprise, Frank gets the final word. Talk about a kick to the gut! The way Hacks employs short flashbacks allows us to see the memories through Deborah’s eyes, mixing joy with pain. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions that keeps us glued to the screen.
Ava, who has her own complicated relationship with Deborah, mirrors this struggle. She’s been both a collaborator and a punching bag for Deborah, and her desire to impress her mentor is palpable. By the end of the episode, Ava contemplates reviving the sitcom for a new generation, but she’s hesitant to bring it up to Deborah. This dynamic is what makes Hacks so relatable; it’s not just about the laughs, but the messy, real relationships that define us.
But let’s not forget the humor that keeps Hacks from becoming a total tearjerker. The show balances its emotional weight with sharp comedy, and this episode is no exception. While it tackles serious themes, it also delivers plenty of laughs, like when Kayla quips, “My dentist is such a pervert, and she’s a girl.” Classic! The humor is woven seamlessly into the narrative, making it all the more impactful.
In contrast, the following episode, “D’Amazing Race,” leans heavier on the goofs, sending Deborah and DJ on a mother-daughter journey in a celebrity edition of The Amazing Race. While it has its funny moments, it feels a bit more disjointed compared to the emotional depth of “Who’s Making Dinner?”. Sometimes, less is more, and this episode proves that not every joke needs to serve a deeper narrative.
Still, it’s clear that Hacks knows how to keep us entertained while exploring the complexities of performance and personal relationships. Deborah’s journey is a reminder that the world of comedy is not just about the punchlines, but about the people behind them. So grab your tissues and prepare for a wild ride through the ups and downs of showbiz with Hacks—it’s a sitcom that truly delivers on every emotional level.
https://www.youtube.com/user/autostraddle