Somebody Somewhere Season 3 Episode 6: As Much as I Like Not Feeling - Heartstrings and Hickeys

In the penultimate episode of Somebody Somewhere's third season, "As Much as I Like Not Feeling," we witness Sam Samantha Miller (Bridget Everett) at a critical juncture in her personal journey. The episode, written and directed by Lennon Parham, is a masterclass in emotional storytelling, deftly balancing humor with heart-wrenching vulnerability .

The central event of the episode is Sam's date with Iceland (Ólafur Darri Ólafsson), a man she's been tentatively seeing . The date starts off promisingly, with Sam stepping out of her comfort zone, an act that triggers anxiety and fear in equal measure. Her nervousness is palpable, and the audience can't help but root for her, much like a "mama bird watching her baby bird" . Sam's anxiety is evident as she prepares for the date, changing outfits and fixing her hair, eventually breaking down in tears before composing herself and going ahead with the plan .

During the date, Sam is endearingly open about her nervousness, even bringing her emotional support dog, Wesley, along for the encounter. Iceland is equally nervous but charming, and their conversation flows naturally, covering topics like dogs, music, and Iceland itself. However, when Iceland leans in for a kiss, Sam is overwhelmed and begins to cry, retreating into her shell. She articulates her fear, saying, "Maybe I don’t have the emotional infrastructure for this" , a line that cuts deep, revealing her insecurities and self-doubt.

Parallel to Sam's date is the ongoing narrative of her friendship with Joel (Jeff Hiller). Their relationship has been strained since Sam confronted Joel about sharing her personal issues with his boyfriend. Despite this, Joel remains a constant support system for Sam. When Joel himself is in distress after a minor car accident, Sam suggests a sleepover, reminiscent of their past, complete with 'tinis and tickle fights .

The sleepover becomes a therapeutic session for both, as they discuss their feelings and fears. Joel opens up about his dissatisfaction with his life, despite everything seemingly going well. Sam, in turn, confesses her feelings about the date with Iceland and her subsequent emotional breakdown. Joel's immediate response, "How could he not?" is a testament to their friendship and his unwavering belief in Sam .

The episode is bookended with conversations between Sam and Joel, highlighting their bond and the emotional growth they've both experienced. Sam's resilience is evident as she decides to go on the date despite her anxiety, and even after the emotional fallout from the kiss, she continues to walk with Iceland, trying to navigate her feelings .

The episode also showcases smaller, tender moments that add depth to the characters. Tricia's (Mary Catherine Garrison) ability to suss out Sam's plans and her somewhat harsh but well-intentioned advice, Fred's (Murray Hill) humorous confession of wanting to be a "bad, bad boy," and the metaphor of foot peels as a representation of Sam's efforts to change and grow , all contribute to the rich tapestry of the show.

"As Much as I Like Not Feeling" is a powerful episode that encapsulates the essence of Somebody Somewhere. It's a raw portrayal of Sam's struggle with self-worth and her journey towards self-acceptance. The episode ends on a bittersweet note, with Sam and Joel's friendship stronger than ever, and both characters having gained a deeper understanding of themselves and each other . It's a testament to the show's ability to tackle heavy themes with a light touch, making it one of the most authentic and heartfelt series on television .

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