"The Baby" is a masterclass in comedic timing and situational humor, taking viewers on a wild ride through the life of Paul Wickstead, aka Wicky (Greg Davies), a crime scene cleaner with a penchant for getting into the most absurd situations. This second episode of the third season is no exception, as it delves into the chaotic world of parenthood, infidelity, and the never-ending cycle of misunderstandings that make "The Cleaner" such a delight to watch.
The episode kicks off with Wicky arriving at what seems like a routine cleaning job, only to be quickly thrown into a whirlwind of confusion and embarrassment. A chance encounter with Donald (Steve Pemberton), the gardener with an unsettling obsession with the homeowner Lara (Gemma Whelan), sets the tone for the episode's series of mishaps. Wicky's attempt to navigate the situation with subtlety quickly backfires, as Lara overhears their conversation and Donald disappears, leaving Wicky to face the music.
As the episode progresses, Wicky finds himself in a labyrinth of miscommunications and misplaced keys. His attempt to search for the key while avoiding confrontation with Lara leads him to eavesdrop on a phone call, further entangling him in the web of secrets surrounding the household. The arrival of a delivery van offers a brief respite, but it's not long before Wicky is embroiled in another awkward situation, this time with Lara's overbearing mother, Caroline (Vicki Pepperdine).
Wicky's efforts to be helpful only serve to deepen the chaos. His conversation with Caroline leads to a series of increasingly uncomfortable moments, culminating in him standing in the kitchen in nothing but a towel. The revelation of Lara's failed suicide attempt adds a layer of pathos to the otherwise farcical proceedings, highlighting the show's ability to balance humor with more serious themes.
The plot thickens as Wicky, inspired by a rebuke from Caroline, takes it upon himself to paint the nursery. His well-intentioned but misguided actions lead to a hilarious sequence of events, including painting the wrong room and accidentally revealing Lara's travel plans. The situation reaches a fever pitch when Wicky is unable to gain access to the Shepard's Hut, the actual site of the cleaning job, and Lara discovers her missing passport.
The tension builds to a climax as Wicky and Lara find themselves locked inside the hut, with Lara's water breaking in the midst of the chaos. Wicky's frantic attempt to escape through a skylight is both comedic and heart-wrenching, as he navigates the birth of Lara's child in the most unlikely of circumstances.
The episode concludes with a return to Wicky's home, where he and PS Ruth Edwards (Zita Sattar) reflect on their decision not to have children. The conversation serves as a poignant reminder of the personal stakes underlying Wicky's professional life, adding depth to his character and providing a satisfying end to the episode.
"The Baby" is a testament to the show's ability to craft intricate narratives that are equal parts hilarious and heartwarming. The episode's intricate plot, combined with the stellar performances of its cast, makes for a memorable viewing experience. It's a perfect example of how "The Cleaner" continues to deliver on its promise of dark humor and unexpected twists, making it a must-watch for fans of the series.