Ep 4. Father Figures

Angst-ridden teenager Angela Chase faces another challenge as she struggles with her distaste for her school's "career day" in the fourth episode of the show's first season, "Father Figures." Angela is reluctantly tagging along with her friend Rayanne and her mother, Amber, as they go on a road trip to visit Amber's ex-boyfriend at his shoe company. Meanwhile, Angela's classmate Brian Krakow is about to get a taste of adulthood by participating in his father's company's career day, but the pressure to find a career he's passionate about is weighing heavily on him.

Back at Angela's house, her father Graham is the center of attention as his estranged younger brother, George, arrives for an unexpected visit. George immediately tries to make amends by taking the family out to dinner and giving Graham an expensive gift. But Graham is skeptical of George's intentions, especially when he keeps trying to bring up the past.

As Angela and Rayanne drive with Amber, the tension between Angela and Amber becomes palpable, with Amber making frequent snide comments about Angela, causing her to feel increasingly uncomfortable. Finally, the trip takes a turn when Amber's car breaks down, leaving the girls stranded. They end up going to a motel to stay the night, and the tension between Amber and Angela comes to a head.

Meanwhile, Brian is struggling with his presentation for his father's career day, unable to come up with a passion that he can turn into a career. Despite his father's attempts to help him, Brian remains insecure and unsure of what he wants to do with his life. The pressure he feels takes a toll on his friendship with Angela, causing a rift between them.

Back at the Chase household, Graham and George's relationship continues to be strained as they struggle to find common ground. Angela tries to be a mediator, but her attempts are largely unsuccessful.

The episode comes to an emotional climax when Angela confronts Amber about her behavior, and they both open up about their feelings of abandonment by their fathers. As Amber tells Angela about how she coped with her own father's absence, Angela begins to understand her better, and they finally make peace.

Meanwhile, Brian finally realizes his passion for photography and presents a stunning slide show for his father's company's career day. Angela's relationship with her father also begins to improve as they bond over their shared experiences with George.

"Father Figures" is an emotional and heartfelt episode that tackles issues of family, abandonment, and finding one's passion. It offers a nuanced portrayal of teenage angst and the struggles of growing up. The characters are realistic and relatable, and the performances are outstanding, particularly those of Claire Danes as Angela and Bess Armstrong as Amber. It's a must-see for fans of My So-Called Life and anyone who enjoys poignant and affecting coming-of-age stories.