Ep 10. In Utero

Hank Moody, a struggling writer, discovers he has a daughter with his ex-girlfriend Karen. In this episode titled "In Utero," Hank deals with the news of Karen's pregnancy and his uncertain role as a father. While Karen decides to keep the baby, Hank debates whether or not he is ready for this new responsibility and wonders if he can be a good father.

As Hank struggles with his impending fatherhood, he also has to deal with the fallout from his latest sexual escapade. His relationship with his on-again, off-again girlfriend, Mia, reaches a breaking point when she finds out about his indiscretion. Meanwhile, Charlie, Hank's best friend and agent, tries to help him land a writing gig for a movie but faces opposition from the studio head.

Throughout the episode, Hank reflects on his own childhood and the relationship he had with his absent father. He seeks advice from his therapist and tries to come to terms with his own insecurities and fears about fatherhood. Ultimately, he realizes that he wants to be there for his daughter and begins to embrace the idea of being a dad.

"In Utero" is a poignant and emotional episode that tackles the complicated feelings surrounding parenthood and the struggles of growing up. It showcases the complexity of relationships and the challenges of trying to balance personal desires with the responsibilities of adulthood. The performances by David Duchovny and the rest of the cast are powerful, and the writing is sharp and insightful.

Overall, "In Utero" is a standout episode in the second season of Californication, and is a must-see for fans of the show. It expertly explores the themes of identity, family, and fatherhood, and offers a glimpse into the inner turmoil and growth of its central character.