Ep 6. Gene Therapy

After some startling revelations in the previous episode, Neil and Grace face some new challenges in their marriage, and they turn to a new perspective to help them out. In this episode titled "Gene Therapy", the couple explores the idea of genetic modification to upset their blueprint and introduce some much-needed change into their relationship. They enlist the services of a geneticist named Dr. Austin Langham, whose experimental therapy aims to alter problematic behaviors in individuals.

As they start down this path, the couple's lives take on different trajectories. Neil is excited about the prospect of getting rid of his individualistic, unemotional tendencies while Grace is more cautious and skeptical. Dr. Austin Langham has his reservations too, especially after Neil becomes increasingly pushy about the procedure - he wants to go all the way with the gene therapy and rid himself of every flaw he has.

The duo's interactions with Dr. Langham introduce numerous ethical questions around gene modification, and the boundaries this field of science shouldn't cross. Touted as the newest wonder in modern medicine, gene therapies have the potential to cure debilitating illnesses and genetic disorders. However, the question remains dancing around the ethics of creating "designer" babies and genetic testing.

As usual, the show's writers add a perfect blend of dark humor, the plot drips with a cynicism honed by years of cynical experience. The episode is perfectly hilarious yet insightful absurdities as we follow Neil and Grace's journey to genetic therapy and its controversial effects. What we find is that there are no easy answers to the ethical questions raised.

While Neil and Grace navigate through the moral and emotional fallout caused by gene modifications, Anika's past also catches up with her. She is in trouble again, and the sisters must rally once more to her aid. Meanwhile, Simon continues to struggle with his issues at work, which follow him both at home and while hanging out with friends.

As the episode unfolds, we get to see how Neil's eagerness and Grace's skepticism intersect, leading them on diverging paths. Neil dives deeper into the therapy and ends up learning more than he bargained for about himself, his marriage, and the people around him. Grace, on the other hand, has to deal with the unintended consequences of the procedure, along with her own doubts and apprehensions.

Overall, Satisfaction season 2 episode 6 "Gene Therapy" is a masterclass in dark comedy and a nuanced exploration of the ethics of genetic modification. It stays true to the show's unique blend of raw sexuality, sharp humor, and genuine heart, all while delivering poignant insights about the human condition. From the conflicts raised, the episode leaves us to interrogate the future of humanity in the context of genetic engineering - yes, we can do some things, but should we? Are our so-called flawed realities what make us human, and what do we lose by trying to modify ourselves? "Gene Therapy" takes us on an exciting ride and satisfyingly keeps us on our toes in terms of where we stand in the conversation around the ethics of genetics.