In the aftermath of Calvin Evans' tragic death, "Lessons in Chemistry" Season 1, Episode 3, "Living Dead Things," delves into the raw emotions of grief and the struggle for resilience . The episode takes on a unique narrative approach by introducing the voiceover of Six-Thirty, the dog, who provides a poignant perspective on the events unfolding around him .
The episode opens with Six-Thirty's backstory, revealing his initial training as a military dog and his escape to freedom, which leads him to Elizabeth's doorstep . His narration adds a layer of emotional depth to the story, as he grapples with his perceived failure to protect Calvin and his newfound role as Elizabeth's companion and protector .
Elizabeth, portrayed by Brie Larson, is depicted in a state of shock and grief, navigating the funeral arrangements and the hollow rituals that follow the death of a loved one . Her performance conveys a deep sense of loss and disorientation, as she moves through her days in a fog, Six-Thirty by her side .
The loss of Calvin is felt acutely at Hastings Lab, where his absence leaves a void . Elizabeth's attempt to return to work is met with the cold reality that her lab has been cleared, her research claimed by the institution, and her personal belongings withheld due to her lack of legal ties to Calvin . This bureaucratic cruelty compounds her grief with a sense of injustice and isolation .
As Elizabeth begins to suspect she is pregnant, her grief takes on a new dimension . Her self-administered pregnancy test using amphibian ovulation is a testament to her resourcefulness and her refusal to be entirely consumed by her loss . The news of her pregnancy is both a shock and a source of anger, as she confronts the reality of Calvin's death and the future she must now face alone .
The episode also explores the complexities of Elizabeth's relationship with Harriet, who is dealing with her own grief over Calvin's death . Harriet's character is further developed as she takes on the fight to restore Calvin's reputation, which has been tarnished by a biased newspaper article . Her actions not only honor Calvin's memory but also begin to forge a bond of mutual support with Elizabeth .
The tension at Hastings Lab escalates as Dr. Donatti attempts to fire Elizabeth for being pregnant and unwed, revealing his sexist and discriminatory attitudes . Elizabeth's calm defiance in the face of this injustice is a powerful moment, as she asserts her rights and challenges the outdated and unlawful policies of the institution .
The episode concludes with a powerful scene of Elizabeth and Six-Thirty running, a metaphor for their journey through grief and their determination to move forward . Six-Thirty's voiceover, echoing Calvin's words about the beauty of running, provides a fitting closure to an episode that explores the many facets of loss and the resilience of the human spirit .
"Living Dead Things" is a heart-wrenching and beautifully crafted episode that delves into the depths of grief and the search for healing. It showcases the strength of the characters as they navigate through their pain, and it highlights the importance of companionship and support in the face of adversity. The episode's unique narrative device, the voiceover of Six-Thirty, adds an emotional richness that resonates deeply with the audience, making it a standout installment in the series .