Ep 7. Looking for a Plus-One

Looking for a Plus-One is a poignant and revealing episode of the first season of Looking. The episode largely revolves around the character of Patrick, who is faced with the dilemma of finding a suitable plus-one for the wedding of his ex-boyfriend, Richie, whom Patrick is still in love with.

As Patrick begins to grapple with the complicated emotions that arise from his unrequited love for Richie, he finds himself growing increasingly anxious about the prospect of attending the wedding alone. With his insecurities and past relationship troubles looming large, Patrick sets out to find the perfect date, but the process proves more daunting than he had initially anticipated.

Meanwhile, his friends Agustín and Dom are dealing with their own romantic complications. Agustín is struggling to reconcile his feelings for his boyfriend and his attraction to his close friend, while Dom is still coming to terms with the collapse of his longtime relationship with his former business partner.

Despite the heavy subject matter, Looking for a Plus-One is a beautifully crafted and nuanced episode, filled with moments of tenderness, humor, and reflection. The writers skillfully explore the complex dynamics of modern romance, and the challenges that can arise when we confront our deepest desires and fears.

Throughout the episode, we see Patrick grappling with conflicting emotions. On the one hand, he wants to move on from his past relationship with Richie and find happiness with someone else. On the other hand, he can't help but feel drawn to Richie, and is haunted by the memories of their time together. As he navigates this emotional minefield, we see Patrick's vulnerabilities and insecurities laid bare, and we can't help but empathize with his struggles.

The episode also explores the ways in which our relationships with our past partners can shape our present and future relationships. Patrick's lingering feelings for Richie affect not only his search for a plus-one, but also his ability to connect with potential new partners. Similarly, we see Agustín struggling to maintain a healthy relationship with his boyfriend, even as he is haunted by the memory of his former flame.

At the same time, the episode is also filled with moments of humor and levity. The scenes in which Patrick goes on a series of awkward dates are both cringe-worthy and hilarious, offering a sharp commentary on the absurdity of modern dating culture. And the scenes between Dom and his ex-partner, in which they grapple with their conflicting feelings towards each other, are both poignant and wryly humorous.

Overall, Looking for a Plus-One is a deeply affecting episode, filled with rich characterization, beautiful writing, and nuanced performances. As the characters grapple with the complexities of modern romance, we can't help but see ourselves reflected in their struggles and aspirations. Whether we're single, in a relationship, or somewhere in between, Looking for a Plus-One offers a poignant and heartfelt exploration of the universal human quest for love and connection.