Ep 3. Strays

In this episode of Baskets, titled "Strays," we find ourselves immersed in the daily life of our main character, Chip. Despite facing hardship and challenges in his life as a failed professional clown living in Bakersfield, California, Chip remains optimistic in navigating the obstacles thrown his way.

At the beginning of the episode, Chip finds himself bonding with a stray dog he finds wandering the streets. His love and affection for the dog soon turns into a mission to find the dog a permanent home. Chip's determination to help the dog leads him down a path to reconnect with an old acquaintance, Martha, who he believes would be the perfect owner for the dog.

As Chip tries to find the dog a home, we also see his life with his estranged wife Penelope and his mother, Christine. Penelope, who is also a failed clown, is living with Chip and seems to be struggling with mental illness. Chip's mother, Christine, is an underhanded but loving presence in his life, often undermining his plans and aspirations but still providing support where she can.

As the episode progresses, we see Chip's determination to find the dog a good home bring him closer to Martha, who he once had a crush on. Martha is a veterinarian who is currently mourning the loss of her husband and is not looking for any romantic relationships. However, as Chip spends more time with her, and the two bond over their shared love for the dog, he can't help but let his feelings show.

Throughout the episode, we also see Chip struggling to juggle his responsibilities as a clown instructor and caretaker of his family while trying to find a home for the dog. Chip's students at the clown academy provide an insightful look into his life as a professional clown, which is far from the glamorous career he once imagined.

As the episode nears its end, we see Chip finally finding the dog a new home with Martha, leaving him feeling content but also lonely. His attempt to pursue a relationship with her also falls short, as she makes it clear she is not interested, leaving Chip in a state of confusion and disappointment.

Overall, this episode of Baskets introduces us further to the character of Chip, who is portrayed by Zach Galifianakis in a vulnerable yet endearing way. The show touches on themes of loneliness, rejection, and finding purpose in life. The introduction of Martha as a love interest for Chip adds an extra layer of intrigue to the show that will undoubtedly carry on into the next episodes.