Trade shows aren’t exactly known for their riveting drama. But in the world of “Somebody Somewhere,” even a trip to Kansas City for some convention center action can become an unexpected source of both amusement and pathos.
In this week’s episode, “What if it spreads?”, Sam and Tricia’s carefully crafted trade show plans run into a few hilarious and potentially endearing snags. Meanwhile, back in Manhattan, Kansas, Joel reluctantly drags himself to Brad’s bible book club only to be unexpectedly confronted by a ghost from Christmases past – or, at least, from some blurry point in his personal history.
This episode isn’t likely to win any awards for earth-shattering plot twists, but it’s poised to deliver the same blend of wry humor and quiet emotional resonance that has become this show’s trademark. Will Sam and Tricia’s business venture implode spectacularly? Will Joel’s surprise reunion open old wounds or offer a chance for some sort of personal reckoning? Given this show’s track record, it’s a good bet that the fallout will be handled with both sensitivity and the series’ particular brand of Midwestern pragmatism.
“Somebody Somewhere” continues to be a prime example of how to tell small-scale stories with big emotional impact. There’s a certain comfort in watching these characters fumble through life’s mundane challenges, finding humor and connection in the most unexpected places.
Tune in to HBO this Sunday, November 17 at 10:30 p.m. for “What If It Spreads?” to see how these stories unfold.
