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Sarah here, teaching English around the world. Living life and seeing things.
Following the series premiere, trouble is brewing in the next episode drop of Minx, as political problems and press preparations cause some setbacks. Episodes 3 and 4 star Ophelia Lovibond, Jake Johnson, Taylor Zakhar Perez, Jessica Lowe, Oscar Montoya, Idara Victor, Lennon Parham, and Amy Landecker.
The Heart of the Valley
Episode 3 “Norman Mailer, Samantha Shortcake” (Directed by Rachel Lee Goldenberg and written by Lara Spotts) starts with an event that changes Minx, and the production speed at Bottom Dollar Publications. What starts as a situation that Doug (Jake Johnson) is used to, quickly becomes something new entirely, and a change in the political tide really brings things to a halt.
This episode is great at showing how deep the relationships between the characters are, and how new relationships are forming. One of my favourite friendships is between Doug and Tina (Idara Victor). Tina really is Doug’s right-hand man, and you can see that the two have a long history and great chemistry together. They balance each other out so well and create a perfect team. The humour from the two of them is flawless, and it flows naturally into some of the deeper and more heartfelt moments. Johnson and Victor feel so pure together, and it’s a beautiful depiction of a true friendship.
Joyce (Ophelia Lovibond) is also learning and growing in this episode. While she has a rocky start, she quickly learns just how much the team around her can help, and what other people have to offer. We are slowly seeing her open up more and accept help, and with Bambi (Jessica Lowe) and Richie (Oscar Montoya) there to guide her, she is loosening up and embracing this new world. Lovibond’s progression is natural and fun, and the way all of these characters come together really gives you an idea of how everyone is growing and changing.
The relationship between Joyce and her sister Shelly (Lennon Parham) is also a personal favourite. They quip and bounce off each other in a way that is true and real. This dynamic reminds everyone of their own siblings, and even when they don’t see eye to eye, they’re still there to support one another. Shelly is quickly becoming a part of the Minx team, and it’s exciting to see how she’ll contribute more in the future.
It’s… Just Fun
After the events of Episode 3, things seem to be looking up for Minx as the magazine is ready to print, and it’s press conference time. Episode 4 “An Exciting New Chapter in the Annals of Erotica” (Directed by Jake Schreier and written by Ben Karlin) shows us another side of what it takes to be a groundbreaking publication.
Shane (Taylor Zakhar Perez) is a shining star in this episode. He plays the loveable and willing-to-learn cover model for Minx’s first issue, and Zakhar Perez is brilliant in this role. While he is a little at odds with Joyce to begin with, they quickly learn from each other — in many different ways. Shane becomes more aware of how the patriarchy affects everyone — not just women — and Joyce learns to embrace her needs and sexuality. Although the characters are very different, they work together so well, even if they don’t exactly see eye to eye at certain points.
We have a continuation of what it takes to keep Bottom Dollar Publications running, and while Joyce is tackling her own dilemma with Shane, Doug and Tina have to tackle the finances of the publishing company. The politics of the valley come back to bite them after their minor success in episode 3, and they need to scramble to balance the books. We see just how much Doug depends on Tina in this episode, and how vital they are to each other in achieving their dreams. They have their ups and downs but are still strong together.
Finding Your Voice
Episodes 3 and 4 are fantastic at building and progressing the characters and their friendships. We really see how each one changes and grows as this new journey starts to take form. Everyone is learning and seeing things from a new perspective, and although the humour is in full swing here, it’s still a beautiful and heartwarming story — just with more balls!
Minx Episode 1-6 are now available to stream on HBO Max.
Sarah here, teaching English around the world. Living life and seeing things.
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