Ep 4. Mayor is Missing

In "Mayor is Missing," the fourth episode of Portlandia's first season, the city of Portland is in a state of panic when the mayor suddenly goes missing. Fred Armisen and Carrie Brownstein star as recurring characters Peter and Nance, who are shocked by the news of the missing mayor. The episode follows the hilarious antics of the city's inhabitants as they try to work out what has happened to their leader.

As the search for the mayor begins, the local news comes under fire for their reporting on the story. Armisen and Brownstein's characters jokingly accuse the news anchors of trying to sensationalize the disappearance to get more views. Meanwhile, a group of local birdwatchers decide to take the matter into their own hands and conduct their own search. Their search leads them to a shocking discovery that could change the course of the investigation.

As the episode progresses, it becomes clear that the missing mayor is more than just a face in the crowd. His absence leaves a power vacuum in the city that other political figures are eager to fill. A number of candidates enter the race to become the next mayor of Portland, each with their own quirky personality and campaign strategy. The episode explores the ridiculousness of modern politics, as the candidates try to win over voters by any means necessary.

Throughout the episode, Armisen and Brownstein's characters provide comic relief with their odd behavior and offbeat sense of humor. From their bizarre conversations at the local bar to their attempts to join the search party, they offer a unique perspective on the chaos that ensues in the city. Their presence is a reminder that, despite the absurdity of the situation, life in Portland remains charmingly weird.

Overall, "Mayor is Missing" is a hilarious episode of Portlandia that showcases the show's unique brand of humor. It's a fun send-up of the quirks of small-city life, with plenty of absurd twists and turns to keep viewers entertained. Whether you're a longtime fan of the show or just tuning in for the first time, this episode is a must-watch.