The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel Season 5 Episode 1: An Unexpected Focus on Esther Maisel
In the premiere of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel’s final season, Episode 1 takes an intriguing turn by shifting the spotlight onto a character typically in the background. This time, Esther Maisel, a PhD student at MIT, takes center stage. In the therapist’s office, she finds herself grappling with the overwhelming demands imposed upon her by her mother, Midge.
Esther’s Scientific Breakthrough
During a therapy session, Esther experiences a major scientific breakthrough, capturing the attention of her therapist who recognizes her achievement. Esther, frustrated by her mother’s lack of understanding, exclaims in exasperation, “Tell that to my mother!”
Midge’s Predicament
In 1961 New York, Midge’s mother falls ill with hypothermia and frostbitten toes, confining her to bed rest. Susie, curious about Midge’s recent experiences, arrives to offer support. Meanwhile, Midge, recovering from her delirium, admits to her mistakes of refusing previous gig opportunities.
Susie’s Determination
Susie, realizing that Midge is at her breaking point, understands the urgency to secure a big break for her within the next six months. She sees Mike Carr as the key to achieving this and attempts to approach him on the set of The Gordon Ford Show, which he manages the bookings for. However, her efforts are met with refusal.
Challenges and Setbacks
Undeterred, Susie tracks down Mike at a Christmas tree lot and makes a case for Midge’s appearance on the show. Unfortunately, her plan backfires as Mike becomes upset, swearing to make it difficult for both Susie and Midge to perform anywhere. This setback adds to the mounting challenges they face.
A Series of Revelations
Thanksgiving dinner brings unexpected revelations. A delivery of dead flowers confuses Rose, hinting at a potential threat. Shirley and Moishe announce their impending divorce, and Joel shocks everyone by revealing his plans to marry Mei, who is pregnant with their child. However, Mei later reveals that she is not carrying the baby and has aspirations of pursuing a medical career in Chicago.
Joel’s Downward Spiral
Distraught over the breakup, Joel seeks solace in alcohol, leading to inappropriate behavior at his bar, insulting his band, and delivering a lackluster stand-up set. He confronts a gambling ring, resulting in a beating.
Susie’s Efforts for Midge
Susie secures a two-week gig for Alfie the magician, and Midge offers to drive him to the airport. During their conversation, Alfie mentions another manager attempting to lure him away from Susie. Midge reassures him of Susie’s unwavering persistence in championing her clients.
Unexpected Encounters and Realizations
At the airport, Midge encounters her parents, who were originally supposed to fly out to Palm Beach. They express disappointment at her willingness to accompany Susie, but not them. However, their flight reservations mysteriously disappear. Rose suspects her competitor in the matchmaking business, Benedetta, is behind these incidents.
A Farewell and New Opportunities
Midge encounters Lenny Bruce, who reveals his plans to move to Los Angeles due to dwindling performance opportunities. Emotionally, Midge promises him she won’t waste her chance. Despite a shaky start at a stand-up gig watched by Gordon Ford himself, Midge manages to turn it around and grab his attention.
Susie’s Plea and Midge’s Dilemma
Susie, recognizing Midge’s potential, approaches Gordon after the show and appeals for him to give Midge a job. While he isn’t interested in featuring her as a comic, he offers her a groundbreaking role as the show’s first female writer. Although initially hesitant, Midge eventually agrees, understanding the potential this opportunity holds.
Episode Review: A Promising Start with Hilarious Undertones
The marvelous Mrs. Maisel’s final season commences with a strong and amusing opener that not only propels Midge into an exciting new challenge but also explores the intriguing life of the older version of Esther. Alexandra Socha delivers an incredible performance, leaving viewers longing for more insights into her time at MIT.
One noteworthy aspect of this episode is the show’s direct exploration of the repercussions of Midge’s career on her own family, with her children bearing the brunt of her pursuit of success. Despite this, Susie, who has become Midge’s found family, stands by her side as the most important person in her life, forming a united front to conquer the obstacles they face.
Overall, this premiere promises a delightfully funny experience while offering glimpses of the challenges and growth that await Midge in her quest for stardom.
Episode Rating
On a scale of 1-10, we give this episode an 8 for its strong character development, amusing moments, and the introduction of new opportunities that propel the storyline forward.