Ep 9. The Most Handsome Boy on the Planet

In season 2, episode 9 of "The Goldbergs," entitled The Most Handsome Boy on the Planet, the storyline delves into the intricacies and comical situations surrounding family dynamics, teenage vanity, and the pursuit of stardom during the glorious 1980s. The episode presents a humorous yet touching blend of family life and the universal desire to be recognized and admired.

At the heart of this episode is middle child, Barry Goldberg, whose self-confidence and desire for popularity often land him in humorous predicaments. Barry's journey begins when a smooth-talking modeling agent sees potential in him and flatters him into believing he could be the next big thing. This newfound assurance that he is the most handsome boy on the planet sends Barry into a whirlwind of excitement and dreams of modeling stardom—a vision that seems poised to shake up the Goldberg household in unexpected ways.

Barry's parents, Beverly and Murray, represent two contrasting perspectives on their son's potential rise to fame. Beverly, overprotective and fiercely supportive of her children's endeavors, finds herself thrilled by the possibility of Barry's success. Her overwhelming enthusiasm might lead her to go to comical lengths to ensure he has everything he needs to become a superstar. The quintessential 'smother,' Beverly's endeavors are often filled with cringeworthy yet endearing attempts to intervene in her children's lives for what she believes to be their best interest.

In contrast, Murray, the gruff but loving father with an often pragmatic outlook on life, might approach Barry's modeling aspirations with his characteristic skepticism. Knowing the harsh realities of showbiz, Murray's grounded nature could provide an anchor to Beverly’s flights of fancy and Barry's growing ego, offering a critical voice of reason amidst the clamor surrounding Barry's potential ascent in the superficial world of modeling.

Meanwhile, elder sister Erica and younger brother Adam, the pop-culture-obsessed youngest of the Goldberg clan, each have their own reactions to Barry's situation. Erica's teenage coolness and sarcasm might have her casting a critical eye on Barry's modeling dream, providing her own brand of biting commentary on the situation. However, underneath her tough exterior, Erica's deep-seated familial love could lead to moments where her genuine support shines through in unexpected ways.

Young Adam, typically engrossed in his own world of '80s movies and electronics, may find himself reluctantly dragged into his brother's escapades. Often serving as the observer and narrator of the family's antics, Adam's view provides a unique and comically insightful perspective on the events as they unfold. His role could manifest in many different facets, from being an accidental accomplice in Barry's schemes to offering unwittingly sage advice that only a geeky younger brother could dispense.

As for the secondary characters that provide the backdrop of '80s Jenkintown, Pennsylvania, each contributes to the fabric of the episode’s narrative. From the matter-of-fact wisdom doled out by Pops, the hip and witty grandfather, to the quirky dynamics of Barry's friends and the eccentric faculty of William Penn Academy, the episode is sure to colorfully illustrate how the news of Barry's potential fame reverberates throughout their small community.

Throughout the episode, the retro style and nostalgia of the 1980s are on full display. References to the decade’s iconic trends, fashion follies, and the glamour associated with modeling during that era add a rich layer of humor and authenticity to the storyline. The episode's soundtrack, always a highlight of "The Goldbergs," likely features toe-tapping hits from the '80s, setting the mood for each scene and echoing the larger-than-life dreams Barry holds.

The Most Handsome Boy on the Planet presents a tapestry of themes familiar to anyone who's ever experienced family life or dreamed of being in the limelight. It encapsulates the humourous consequences of vanity, the sometimes painful process of growing up, and the deep bonds of affection that hold a family together. Throughout the episode, viewers can expect age-old lessons wrapped in the comforting embrace of the Goldberg family’s love and laughter, as they face the question: what really defines the most handsome boy on the planet?