Ep 2. Model

"Model" is the second episode of the fourth season of the American comedy-drama television series Louie. The episode aired on May 12, 2014, and follows Louis C.K.'s character, Louie, as he navigates a new potential career opportunity as a model.

The episode opens with Louie attending an art gallery opening with his friend Pamela. While there, he meets a woman named Blake, who works for a modeling agency. Blake convinces Louie to come in for a meeting with her boss, and Louie, intrigued by the idea of making some extra money and possibly becoming a model, agrees to go.

At the modeling agency, Louie meets the boss, a quirky character named Ursula. Ursula tells Louie that he has a unique look and that she thinks he could do well in the industry. She invites him to a photoshoot happening the following day, and Louie agrees to try it out.

The next day, Louie arrives at the photoshoot and panics when he realizes he's not sure how to pose or what to do. The other models seem to effortlessly glide into poses, and Louie struggles to keep up. Eventually, the photographer takes notice of Louie's discomfort and tells him to relax and be himself. This advice works, and Louie becomes more comfortable posing for the camera.

After the photoshoot, Ursula informs Louie that the photos have turned out great and that she wants to book him for several more gigs. Louie is thrilled but soon realizes that the modeling industry may not be what he thought it was. At the first gig, he's asked to wear a ridiculous outfit and pretend to be something he's not. He continues to feel out of place at subsequent gigs and eventually decides that modeling isn't for him.

The episode ends with Louie back at the art gallery where he met Blake and Ursula. He sees Blake and they have a brief conversation about the modeling agency. She tells him that he made the right decision and that the industry isn't for everyone.

"Model" is a poignant exploration of the modeling industry and the pressures faced by those trying to break into it. The episode is filled with moments of humor, but ultimately serves as a commentary on the expectations society places on physical appearance. Louie's struggle to fit in with the other models reveals the absurdity of the industry's standards and highlights how difficult it is for anyone to truly fit in when they're being asked to be someone they're not.

Overall, "Model" is a standout episode in the Louie series. It's a thoughtful and entertaining exploration of an often-overlooked industry, and it serves as an excellent example of the show's ability to tackle serious issues while still being funny and heartfelt.