Ep 4. Coats or Keys

Coats or Keys: In the fourth episode of Season 4 of "Masters of Sex," titled "Coats or Keys," the gripping exploration of human sexuality and the pioneering work of Dr. William Masters and Virginia Johnson continues. Set in the mid-1960s, this thought-provoking drama delves into the complex and evolving field of sex research as the characters navigate their own personal and professional challenges.

In "Coats or Keys," the ongoing tensions between Masters (Michael Sheen) and Johnson (Lizzy Caplan) come to the forefront as they grapple with their complicated relationship. While their groundbreaking research on human sexual response continues to garner attention and accolades, the strain of their personal lives begins to take its toll. As they struggle to maintain a balance, they are forced to confront their deepest desires and insecurities.

Meanwhile, Libby Masters (Caitlin FitzGerald), Masters' wife, faces her own set of challenges. As a mother of two children and a recent graduate, she begins to question her role in the traditionally patriarchal society of the 1960s. With the feminist movement gaining momentum, Libby finds herself torn between the expectations placed upon her and her own desires for fulfillment and independence. In "Coats or Keys," she embarks on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment that will inevitably intersect with the lives of Masters and Johnson.

The supporting characters also find themselves on complex paths in this episode. Betty (Annaleigh Ashford), Masters' former assistant turned research subject, faces a personal crisis as her romantic relationship takes an unexpected turn. As she grapples with her own evolving understanding of love and sexuality, she seeks solace and guidance from the unlikely source of a fellow sex researcher, Art (Keke Palmer). Together, they navigate the uncharted waters of their own desires, challenging societal norms along the way.

Additionally, Dr. Barton Scully (Beau Bridges), the once-repressed provost of the university, continues to redefine his own boundaries in the realm of sexual exploration. As he embarks on a new relationship, he must confront the ghosts of his past and reconcile his self-image with his evolving desires. In "Coats or Keys," Scully's journey intertwines with that of Masters and Johnson, as they grapple with their own personal demons and search for fulfillment.

As with previous episodes, "Coats or Keys" expertly weaves together the personal and the professional, demonstrating the profound impact that the study of human sexuality has on the lives of the characters. It delves into themes of identity, desire, and societal expectations against the backdrop of a rapidly changing world. With its nuanced performances and rich character development, this episode of "Masters of Sex" continues to explore the complexities of human relationships and the endless depths of the human experience.

Overall, "Coats or Keys" offers a captivating and thought-provoking narrative that pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling. In this installment of "Masters of Sex," viewers can expect a compelling exploration of love, desire, and self-discovery as the characters navigate the ever-changing landscape of the 1960s.