Ep 22. Hard Times Come Again No More

With a run time of 44 minutes, Parenthood season 2 episode 22 titled "Hard Times Come Again No More" is an emotional and poignant depiction of family struggles and perseverance in the face of adversity. The episode is centered around the Braverman family, whose members are all going through their own challenges and setbacks.

Adam Braverman, the eldest son, is dealing with the aftermath of his wife Kristina's cancer treatment. Despite being in remission, she is facing a long road to recovery and Adam is struggling to balance being a supportive husband and a busy businessman. Meanwhile, Crosby Braverman is facing his own personal and professional crisis as his music business - The Luncheonette - is on the verge of collapsing.

On the domestic front, Sarah Braverman is grappling with her teenage daughter, Amber's, recent rebellion and poor choices. She is also dealing with her own romantic entanglements as she tries to choose between two men she cares about deeply. Lastly, Julia Braverman-Graham and her husband Joel are exploring the difficult world of adoption as they try to bring a second child into their loving family.

Against this backdrop of difficulties and challenges, the Braverman family comes together to support each other and navigate their way through the tough times. Despite the weight of their individual problems, they rely on each other for emotional support and strength.

The title of the episode is a reference to the old Appalachian folk song, "Hard Times Come Again No More." The song talks about the harsh realities of life and the need to rely on each other when times get tough. The lyrics "Tis the song, the sigh of the weary / Hard Times, hard times, come again no more" start and end the episode, underscoring the theme of family unity and support in a time of crisis.

The episode takes its time to explore each character's struggles and challenges, offering a nuanced and empathetic look at their individual journeys. Adam and Kristina's relationship is put under a microscope as they navigate Kristina's recovery and the emotional fallout of her cancer. Crosby's business woes showcase both the fragility and the tenacity of his entrepreneurial spirit. Sarah's struggles with Amber feel all-too-real for any parent who's dealt with a rebellious teenager. And Julia's adoption journey is both inspiring and heart-wrenching in equal measure.

Despite the heavy subject matter, the episode has its fair share of humor and heartwarming moments. The Braverman family is known for their wit, charm, and occasional hijinks, and they don't disappoint in this episode. Scenes featuring the whole family gathered together for dinner or playing baseball in the backyard are a welcome respite from the emotional challenges they're facing.

Ultimately, "Hard Times Come Again No More" is a beautiful and moving episode that highlights the power of family and the resilience of the human spirit. It tackles difficult subjects with honesty and sensitivity, and - as with every episode of Parenthood - leaves viewers feeling both emotionally drained and uplifted at the same time.