Ep 2. Reverie

Rodeo clown turned aspiring French clown Chip Baskets, played by Zach Galifianakis, is back for another season of misadventures in the Pacific Northwest. In season two episode 2 "Reverie" we find Chip facing new challenges in his personal, professional, and romantic life.

In the wake of his divorce from his French wife, Penelope, who he won back in an unlikely courtship in season one, Chip is back to living with his mother, Christine (Louie Anderson), and working as a rodeo clown for his ex-girlfriend's traveling circus. Chip is determined to become a real French clown though, even if it means taking a job at a local bistro that involves dressing like a baguette.

Despite his best intentions, Chip's job at the bistro isn't going well. His coworkers and boss don't seem to appreciate his attempts at authenticity, and his clowning antics have all but driven away the restaurant's limited customer base. Meanwhile, his ex-wife, Penelope (Sabina Sciubba), is flourishing in her new role as the lead clown for the rodeo. This only serves to make Chip feel more like a failure.

To cope with his feelings of inadequacy, Chip falls into a reverie, daydreaming about a perfect French life with his ex-wife, complete with a cozy apartment, fresh baked baguettes, and a romantic dinner date. But his fantasy is short-lived when he overhears Penelope on the phone with her new beau, whom she met on the rodeo circuit.

Chip's romantic prospects aren't looking much better either. Things with his rodeo clown colleague Martha (Martha Kelly) are awkward after a recent hookup, and he's struck out with a new romantic interest, a customer at the bistro who he's invited to see him perform at the next rodeo.

Amidst all of this personal drama, Chip has to contend with some professional trouble as well. The circus's star attraction, a giant pig named Harvey, has fallen ill, leaving it up to Chip and Martha to fill the void. They decide the best course of action is to cross breed Harvey with a smaller pig, but the plan goes awry, leading to a chaotic and comical conclusion.

Overall, Baskets season two episode two "Reverie" is a classic episode of the show, showcasing its signature mix of deadpan humor and emotional depth. Chip's struggles to find his place in the world, both as a clown and as a person, are relatable and endearing. As always, the show's supporting cast, including Anderson and Kelly, add depth and dimension to the story. Whether you're a fan of the show or new to its offbeat charms, "Reverie" is a must-see episode.