Ep 2. Terms of Estrangement (2)

Roseanne season 5 episode 2, titled "Terms of Estrangement (2)," picks up where the previous episode left off, with Roseanne and Dan still at odds over their financial situation. Roseanne has taken on a job at a beauty salon to help make ends meet, but Dan feels emasculated by her earning more money than him. Meanwhile, Becky is struggling with her own issues as she finds herself falling behind in school and butting heads with her new teacher.

The episode follows the Conner family as they navigate these challenges and try to find a way to come together as a family. Roseanne and Dan attend a counseling session to try to work through their issues, but their disagreements only seem to escalate. Meanwhile, Becky's teacher (played by guest star Mariel Hemingway) turns out to be more sympathetic than Becky initially realized, and the two begin to find common ground. However, the road ahead for both Becky and the Conner parents is still rocky.

As always, the comedy in "Terms of Estrangement (2)" is sharp and biting, with Roseanne and Dan's bickering providing plenty of laughs. However, the episode also tackles some serious issues, such as financial hardship and parenting struggles. The show does a good job of balancing the humor with the drama, resulting in an episode that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant.

One standout moment from the episode comes when Roseanne and Dan are arguing about their financial situation, and Roseanne points out that Dan's pride is getting in the way of their family's well-being. It's a powerful moment that speaks to the show's larger themes of family, sacrifice, and the challenges of working-class life. Similarly, Becky's storyline adds depth to the episode, as she confronts both academic pressure and the daunting task of growing up.

Overall, "Terms of Estrangement (2)" is a strong episode of Roseanne that further explores the show's central themes while also providing plenty of laughs. Fans of the series will appreciate the character development and the witty banter between the Conner family members, while newcomers will be drawn in by the show's relatable storylines and well-drawn characters.