Ep 5. Look at Me

After starting off on an awkward note in the previous episode, the fifth installment of Casual's third season, aptly titled "Look at Me," sees Alex and Rae attempting to relieve the tension by going for a night out together. However, as Alex discovers Rae's deep-rooted issues, the evening threatens to turn out much more complicated than they both anticipated.

Meanwhile, Valerie and Jack take Laura out to a sex-positive social gathering, where they meet some of Valerie's old acquaintances. As Valerie encounters old trauma through the people she meets, Jack and Laura begin to experience their issues in the relationship too, leading them to question their future together.

One of the most prominent aspects of the episode is the development of Alex's storyline. In an attempt to be sincere with Rae about his feelings, Alex decides to open up to her about his mother's death and the impact it had on his life. While it is heartfelt, his honesty triggers Rae's insecurities, as she begins to question her worth as a partner and as an artist. Eventually, they meet a mutual friend from college, who helps them see the good they bring out in one another, leading them to confront their fears and find common ground.

On the other hand, Valerie and Jack's storyline is deeply emotional and creates an atmosphere of introspection. While Laura's story arc has mainly focused on her sexuality and her journey towards self-discovery, her parents get to question their compatibility and the extent to which they know each other. Furthermore, as Valerie runs into former friends from her time at a sex cult, she begins to confront the effects it had on her and the people she used to know, particularly when her all-encompassing disillusionment is pointed out to her. Throughout the episode, the three of them must navigate their feelings and confront their underlying issues.

Apart from the character-driven plot points, "Look at Me" also includes a fair amount of humor, particularly in Alex and Rae's scenes. Their hilarious observations about a group of gamers and their discussions about their respective exes bring a lightness to the episode, making it easier for the viewer to reach a sense of catharsis by the end.

One of the technical aspects that stands out in the episode is its use of art. Rae, who is an artist, uses her work as a form of self-expression, adding to the overall mood of the show. The ease with which the artists' world is brought into the screen adds a layer of authenticity to Rae's character arc, as well as Valerie's, who gets to examine her own art and what it means to her.

As always, Casual's cinematography and direction are on point, further highlighting the show's emphasis on character-driven storytelling. The use of handheld camerawork, close-ups, and mise-en-scène give the viewer an intimate look into the lives of the characters, making it all the more compelling.

Overall, "Look at Me" stands out as one of Casual's strongest episodes yet. With its development of character arcs, humor, and emotional depth, it is sure to leave a lasting impression on viewers.