Ep 4. Helen

Donald Glover's critically acclaimed dramedy Atlanta continues its second season with episode four titled Helen. This episode follows the ongoing adventures of protagonist Earn Marks, played by Glover, and his cousin Alfred 'Paper Boi' Miles, played by Brian Tyree Henry, as they navigate the ins and outs of the rap industry and the city of Atlanta itself.

Helen finds Alfred and Earn hitting the road for a promotional trip to a college in the backwoods of Georgia. As they traverse the picturesque countryside, the duo encounters a variety of colorful characters and situations that test their friendship and resolve. Meanwhile, the episode also explores the anxieties and pressures that come with fame and success, as Alfred struggles to remain true to his artistic vision in the face of commercial expectations.

Throughout Helen, there are moments of humor, tension, and pathos as the story unfolds in unexpected ways. As with previous episodes, Glover's deft touch as writer and director ensures that Atlanta remains a show that defies easy categorization, mixing elements of comedy, drama, and even horror to create a unique and compelling viewing experience.

One standout aspect of the episode is the performance of guest star Katt Williams, who plays a strange and enigmatic character named Willy who the duo encounters on their journey. Williams imbues the character with a sense of unpredictability and menace that adds an extra layer of tension to the already complex narrative.

One of the themes explored in Helen is the idea of the artist's journey, both in terms of their creative output and their personal growth. For Alfred and Earn, this means facing up to the realities of the music industry and what it requires to achieve and maintain success. This journey is complicated by the fact that they are not just artists, but also members of a community with its own particular challenges and expectations.

Overall, Helen is a standout episode of Atlanta that showcases the series' strengths in terms of writing, directing, acting, and cinematography. As with previous episodes, it manages to blend elements of different genres and tones to create a truly unique viewing experience. Whether you're a fan of the show or just looking for something fresh and innovative to watch, Helen is definitely worth your time.