Ep 4. Municipal

As the fifth season of Ballers continues, the fourth episode titled "Municipal" begins to showcase more of the shifting dynamics between the main characters. The episode is set after the dramatic events of the previous week and therefore, it takes the story forward in a steady yet commanding way.

As the episode starts, we find Spencer Strasmore (Dwayne Johnson) and Joe Krutel (Rob Corddry) facing challenges to their newly won ownership stake in the Kansas City Chiefs. The duo is confronted with difficulties related to the team's stadium lease, which is put into jeopardy by a maligning U.S. Attorney. As they set out to solve this problem, the episode offers a glimpse into the world of sports finances and politics.

On the other hand, we see a different path being taken by Jason Antolotti (Troy Garity), the sports agent trying to find his footing in the business. Antolotti is seen grappling with professional and personal problems as his girlfriend asks him to sign a troubling client while a growing list of players decide to leave him for other agents.

Next, the episode takes a peek at Ricky Jerret's (John David Washington) life. Ricky, who retired from football in the previous season, is still trying to figure out his next move. We see him dealing with the injury he suffered, trying to reconcile with his wife, and also trying his best to fit into his chess club.

Meanwhile, Charles Greane (Omar Miller) is revealed to be in the midst of managing an NFL team. Charles, who left his job as a successful NFL player to become a general manager, is seen struggling to manage meetings, being patient with rookies, and dealing with the press as he tries to steer the team in the right direction.

Later in the episode, we see Spencer and Joe meeting the wise and charming Monty (James Remar), the man who leased out the stadium where the Chiefs played in. Monty advises them to get in touch with the Mayor and other government officials which Spencer and Joe readily comply with.

In between all this, we also see Spencer struggling to fit in with his new family as he and his wife struggle to find time to spend together. There's a palpable tension between the two as she tries to come to terms with Spencer's wealth and fame.

Overall, the episode highlights the many struggles and challenges that face players and their agents behind the scenes in the world of professional sports. It showcases the many different paths that players can take once they retire, how difficult it is to manage an NFL team, how the sport can get embroiled in politics, and how even the wealthiest and most successful people in the business still have personal problems to contend with.

The show continues to showcase impressive acting from its all-star cast, with Johnson bringing his usual commanding presence to his role, Corddry offering up some great comic relief, and Washington impressing yet again with his range as a dramatic actor. The episode is well written and directed, delivering a nuanced and well-rounded portrayal of the sports industry that is sure to engage fans of the show.