Ep 11. Phallic Victories

As the eleventh episode of season one of Masters of Sex, Phallic Victories is a gripping drama that delves deeper into the complex lives of the show's protagonists. The show presents the stories of William Masters and Virginia Johnson, two pioneering researchers who explored the world of human sexuality in the 1950s and 1960s.

In this episode, the show's creators take things up a notch. Masters and Johnson are riding high on the success of their research and the publication of their book, but things start to unravel when they face financial difficulties. Meanwhile, Masters is still struggling to come to terms with the aftermath of his failed marriage and his relationship with his ex-wife Libby.

The episode takes place against the backdrop of a high-stakes fundraising event at the hospital where Masters works. Masters is tasked with convincing a wealthy donor to support their research, but things take an unexpected turn when the donor's mother reveals a dark secret about her son.

Meanwhile, Johnson continues to struggle with the consequences of her affair with Masters. Her husband George is growing increasingly distant, and her daughter Tessa is starting to ask uncomfortable questions about their family dynamic. Johnson finds herself torn between her dedication to her work and her desire to maintain her family's stability.

The tension builds throughout the episode, as Masters and Johnson face personal and professional challenges. The episode culminates in a dramatic confrontation between Masters and Libby, as he finally comes to terms with his feelings for her and the role she has played in his life.

Phallic Victories is a standout episode that showcases the show's strengths. The show is renowned for its frank and unflinching portrayal of human sexuality, and this episode is no exception. The characters are complex and multidimensional, and their struggles are portrayed with empathy and compassion.

The episode also features strong performances from the show's cast. Michael Sheen is superb as William Masters, delivering a nuanced and powerful performance. Lizzy Caplan is equally impressive as Virginia Johnson, bringing depth and complexity to a character who could easily have been reduced to a stereotype.

In summary, Phallic Victories is a powerful and engaging episode of Masters of Sex. The show's creators continue to push the boundaries of conventional television, exploring complex themes with intelligence and sensitivity. The episode delivers a compelling story that is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant. Fans of the show will not be disappointed.