Ep 4. Moppa

Moppa, the fourth episode of the first season of Transparent, is a nuanced exploration of gender identity and family relationships. As the Pfefferman family dynamics become increasingly complicated, the episode centers on Maura (Jeffrey Tambor) grappling with the reality of her transition and the impact it has on the people around her.

The episode begins with Maura searching for a new pair of shoes at a thrift store. When she spots a pair of strappy, high-heeled sandals, a saleswoman approaches her and says, "You know, those are women's shoes." Maura smiles and calmly responds, "That's okay, I'm a woman." It's a small moment, but it sets the stage for the themes explored throughout the episode: the public and private aspects of transitioning, the way gender roles are enforced, and the vulnerability of being true to oneself.

Meanwhile, Maura's ex-wife Shelly (Judith Light) is feeling left out and frustrated with her own life. In a poignant scene, Shelly performs a one-woman show in her living room, dressed in a glittery costume and belting out showtunes. It's clear that she's seeking attention and validation, and the contrast between her extravagant performance and Maura's quiet struggle for acceptance is a sobering one.

The episode also touches on the experiences of Maura's children as they navigate their own relationships and identities. Sarah (Amy Landecker) is still processing her newfound interest in women and embarking on an affair with her children's former babysitter. Josh (Jay Duplass), meanwhile, is grappling with the aftermath of his own inappropriate behavior towards his former babysitter and trying to make amends. Ali (Gaby Hoffmann), the youngest sibling, is feeling adrift and experimenting with her own sexuality.

As the family struggles to come to terms with Maura's transition, tensions rise. In a heart-wrenching scene, Maura's daughter Sarah confronts her mother about the reality of the situation. "You're not a lesbian, you're my dad," she tells her. "You look like my dad, you sound like my dad." It's a painful reminder that while Maura may have undergone physical changes, her children are still grappling with the emotional reality of her transition.

Throughout the episode, Maura is confronted with the challenges of living as a transgender woman. From being denied access to a women's bathroom to facing the judgment of strangers on the street, it's clear that her new identity comes with a steep learning curve. But even as she struggles, Maura remains determined to be true to herself. As she tells her friend Davina (Alexandra Billings), "I don't want to hide anymore."

Ultimately, Moppa is a powerful exploration of the complexities of gender identity and the impact it has on family relationships. As the Pfeffermans grapple with their own personal struggles, they begin to realize that the true challenge lies in learning to embrace both themselves and each other.