Ep 3. Morocco
- TV14
- February 10, 1994
- 30 min
-
8.3 (379)
Edina (Jennifer Saunders) is feeling the pressure of turning 40. To alleviate her anxiety, Patsy (Joanna Lumley) suggests they go away for a "mind-body-spirit" holiday in Morocco. Initially hesitant, Edina finally agrees and the duo sets off to the North African country. Upon arrival, Edina is immediately put off by the hot and crowded marketplaces, while Patsy revels in the exotic atmosphere.
As they prepare for their first spa treatment, Edina and Patsy are shocked to learn that their package only includes a bath and a massage- a far cry from the all-encompassing retreat they were expecting. Edina dreads the prospect of bathing in the same room as Patsy, while Patsy joyfully teases her.
After completing their treatments, Edina and Patsy venture out into the local nightlife scene. While Patsy hits up various nightclubs and parties, Edina tries to soak up the local culture by attending a traditional dance performance. However, she is horrified to learn that the show is actually a display of snakes being charmed out of a basket.
As the trip progresses, Edina becomes increasingly agitated and paranoid. She feels out of place in the foreign country and is convinced that she and Patsy are being watched. Her anxiety comes to a head when a local man strikes up a conversation with Patsy, causing Edina to suspect him of being a terrorist. This kicks off a series of absurdist misunderstandings and misadventures as Edina and Patsy navigate their way through the unfamiliar territory.
Despite her initial reluctance, Edina eventually has a breakthrough on the trip. After being challenged to "let go" by a spiritual guru, she finally learns to embrace the present instead of constantly worrying about the future. However, the newfound enlightenment is short-lived when the duo finds themselves stranded in the desert with no food, water or transportation following a misunderstanding with their driver.
Absolutely Fabulous season 2 episode 3 titled Morocco explores themes of aging, cultural differences and personal growth in a comedic yet introspective way.