In the stillness of a London night, the fourth episode of "Still Up" takes its viewers on a journey through the intersecting lives of Danny and Lisa, two insomniacs navigating the complexities of life, love, and the pursuit of a good night's sleep. "The Sleep Clinic" sees Lisa (Antonia Thomas) taking a step towards addressing her sleep issues, while Danny (Craig Roberts) faces a crossroads in his career and personal life.
The episode opens with Veggie (Blake Harrison) driving Lisa to the Vitality sleep clinic, a pivotal moment in her quest for restful nights. The car ride is filled with Lisa's doubts and Veggie's reassuring presence, highlighting the reliability that Lisa's mother had mentioned. As they arrive at the clinic, Lisa's trepidation is palpable, a testament to her fear of change and the unknown.
Inside the clinic, Lisa is led to her room by Kat, where she is left with more questions than answers. Her conversation with Danny provides a moment of comfort, a lifeline to the outside world. Danny's own predicament unfolds as he is entrusted with the care of Adam's (Luke Fetherston) dog, Daisy, while Adam is out on a date. This unexpected responsibility adds a layer of stress to Danny's already anxious demeanor, especially with the looming opportunity to interview for Rolling Stone magazine.
Danny's interaction with Daisy is a comedic mix of misunderstandings and technological mishaps. Daisy's sensitivity to negative remarks and her accidental deletion of Danny's interview preparations create a sense of chaos that is all too familiar to Danny. His frustration is palpable, yet his inability to express it due to Daisy's mental health issues adds a layer of irony to the situation.
Lisa's treatment at the clinic is a study in contrasts, with the sterile environment and the intrusive polysomnographic magnets providing a stark backdrop to her usual late-night adventures with Danny. Her restlessness and the subsequent encounter with Clyde, a fellow patient suffering from night terrors, add a touch of humor to the otherwise somber setting.
The climax of the episode comes as Lisa, in a moment of desperation, video calls Danny from under her blanket, only to be caught by Dr. Stafford. Her banishment from the clinic and the confiscation of her phone mark a turning point in her journey towards self-improvement. Her encounter with the sleepwalking Clyde and their subsequent escape from the clinic is a moment of serendipity, as the alarm that signals their departure also signifies the end of Lisa's attempt at a normal life.
Meanwhile, Danny's interview for Rolling Stone magazine takes an unexpected turn when he falls asleep, missing the opportunity to make a lasting impression on the interviewers. Daisy's barking and presence on the Zoom call serve as a bitter reminder of the chaos that has become a constant in Danny's life.
The episode concludes with Lisa on her way home, her phone call to Danny a final attempt to reconnect and share her experience. However, Danny's sleep and the subsequent missed interview create a sense of loss and missed opportunity. The episode ends on a note of uncertainty, with both characters at the crossroads of their lives, their futures hanging in the balance.
"The Sleep Clinic" is a poignant exploration of the characters' inner struggles and the external pressures that shape their lives. It's a narrative that delves into the themes of self-improvement, the fear of change, and the unbreakable bond between two insomniacs who find solace in each other's company. As the night unfolds, both Danny and Lisa are left to confront their own truths, their late-night conversations serving as a mirror to their innermost thoughts and fears.