Episode Guide
Episode 1 – The review score for episode 2 was 3.5/5, while episode 3 had a review score of 4/5. Episode 4 had a review score of 3.5/5, while episode 5 had a review score of 3.5/5 and episode 6 had a review score of 3.5/5. Episode 7 had a review score of 3.5/5, while episode 8 had a review score of 3/5
Since its return, Marvelous Mrs Maisel has continued to be a hit with audiences, and has even been picked up for a second season. The show’s clever writing and powerful commentary about women in society continue to be well-received, and it is clear that Marvelous Mrs Maisel is one of the most successful shows on television.
Season 4 of “Midge” is a return to form for the series. The writing is sharper and more focused, and the characters are more dimensional than ever before. The stand up routines are still scathing and hilarious, but they feel like they’re serving a purpose this time around. Overall, Season 4 is an excellent addition to the series, and I can’t wait to see what comes next. ..
The showrunners have tried to add new and exciting elements to the story, but they’ve also been forced to rely on recycled plot devices and recycled characters. This season feels like a missed opportunity, one that could have been so much better if the writers had stuck to their original plan.
I may be a little contradictory with the negative vibe in this review, especially if you’ve been following my recaps and seen the star ratings I’ve given each episode. I love Marvelous Mrs Maisel, it’s a fantastic show, and the individual episodes are enjoyable. However, as a collective whole, and with the benefit of hindsight, this season has some big problems that are hard to overlook. In particular, there are several plotlines that feel rushed or unfinished - for example Rachel’s decision to leave her job as a news anchor and start her own show; Susie’s decision to move back in with her parents; and Joel’s decision to end his relationship with Susie. These storylines could have been explored further, giving us a better understanding of these characters’ motivations and how their lives have changed as a result. Additionally, some of the jokes fall flat - for example Joel’s line about “the Jews” being responsible for all the world’s problems is offensive and not funny. Overall, Marvelous Mrs Maisel is still an enjoyable show - but it has some major flaws that make it difficult to give it five stars. ..
This season of “Midge” has been odd, given that there isn’t really any stand-up comedy on the show. In fact, until the final episode, Midge has only about 15 minutes of stage time, with the bulk of it taken up with familial drama. Only, half these storylines are unresolved by the time the 8th episode ends. ..
But when Shy Baldwin comes to visit her in the hospital, Miriam can see that she’s been through a lot. She’s lost weight, her hair is shorter, and she’s not as confident as she used to be. But even though Shy is new to the world of touring, she seems like a good friend to Miriam. And when they talk about their old life back in Brooklyn, it feels like a dream come true.
Midge eventually decides to go on her own terms, making it big by headlining acts and doing things her way. And that ultimately sees her slumming it out in a strip club. ..
Joel has family problems with his two sisters Shirley and Moishe. He’s worried about how they’re going to react to his new girlfriend being Mei. Plus, Mei is from China which will be a problem for them both.
This year’s main plot is the competition between Rose and Susie over who will be the next star of the wrestling world. Other storylines include Abe starting to follow his dreams, Rose getting into the matchmaking business, and Susie branching out and trying to bring more talent into her newly established business.
Miriam’s story revolves around her resentment and jealousy for Shy Baldwin. An uncomfortable episode sees Miriam invited along to his wedding only to do her utmost to spend as much of his money by drinking and eating the night away. While humorous on paper, it feels petty and actually damages her character a lot. ..
Miriam, in general, has been a real casualty of this season. She started off as a confident and bright woman who is desperate to make it no matter what, but has gradually descended into someone who believes the world owes her a favor. ..
While I appreciate that she’s been through hard times, there are several instances this year where her actions contradict what she ends up saying. I won’t spoil that here, and thankfully Miriam does get some sense knocked into her late in the season by a familiar face. ..
Despite its many flaws, “The Crown” still has some of the best production design and visuals on television. Every set is exquisitely detailed, and the costumes and camera work are top-notch. This gives the show a level of polish that is unmatched by other shows on television. ..
Unfortunately, strong visuals and impressive sets will only get you so far. Without a compelling story or good character growth, all that good work accounts for nil. That’s a shame because there are glimmers of brilliance in this set but instead of hearty laughs, season 4 broadcasts out to silence. Let’s just hope season 5 can reel the crowd back in and get those laughs flowing.
