Ep 10. Only Women Bleed

Better Things is a comedy-drama television series created by Pamela Adlon and Louis C.K., first airing on FX in September 2016. The show revolves around Sam Fox (played by Adlon), a single mother and working actor with no filter, raising her three daughters in Los Angeles while juggling the pressures of her career and her chaotic personal life.

Season 1 of Better Things introduces us to the complexities and the raw, often humorous reality of Sam's world. Episode 10, titled Only Women Bleed, marks the season finale and delivers an emotionally resonant culmination of the show's key themes: motherhood, femininity, and the unspoken struggles of being a woman.

Throughout the series, viewers witness Sam fiercely tackling the challenges of single parenthood paired with the vicissitudes of an acting career. Sam doesn’t only face the ordinary trials and tribulations that come with parenting but also the nuanced issues that arise when bringing up three daughters, each at different crucial stages of life.

In Only Women Bleed, the episode encapsulates the essence of the show with its blend of poignant moments and comedic relief. This installment delicately balances the narrative of Sam's personal journey with the broader commentary on womanhood and the shared experiences that connect women of all ages and backgrounds.

As the season draws to a close, Sam grapples with pivotal moments in her daughters' lives, touching upon the rites of passage and the sometimes-painful awakening that comes with growing up. The title of the episode itself, Only Women Bleed, signals a deep dive into themes central to female existence—perhaps referencing the biological aspects such as menstruation or the metaphorical bleeding of emotional labor and resilience.

The storylines intricately weave around the unique bond between mothers and daughters, examining the ways in which Sam's relationship with her offspring confronts the universal complexities of nurturing, protection, and letting go. Her interactions reveal the fierce love and unwavering commitment she has for her girls, despite the chaos and unpredictability that define their daily lives.

The audience sees Sam's continued struggle to maintain her professional commitments in the face of personal upheaval. The entertainment industry, with its superficial charm and relentless demands, serves as a backdrop for Sam's persistent fight for respect and recognition, highlighting the ever-present balancing act career-oriented mothers face.

Only Women Bleed does not shy away from showcasing the quiet victories and the heart-wrenching challenges Sam experiences. It brings to the forefront the small, often-overlooked episodes of daily life that, when strung together, paint an intricate portrait of perseverance. The episode digs into the layers of Sam's character, showing her vulnerability, strength, and undying humor even when faced with life's absurdities and inconveniences.

The support system of friends and family is another recurring motif explored throughout the series and culminates in this finale. As the title suggests, there is a communal attribute to the experiences portrayed—Sam isn't alone in her journey. The connections she shares with other female characters provide a mirror for her own struggles, offering moments of empathy and solidarity that are heartwarming and validating.

Furthermore, the narrative doesn't just limit itself to the female lens. Insights into the perceptions and roles of men in Sam’s life provide a contrast and context for her experiences, painting a fuller picture of her world.

In sum, Only Women Bleed serves as a powerful and reflective episode that ties together the narrative threads woven throughout the first season of Better Things. It brings to the forefront themes of female empowerment, vulnerability, and the complexity of human relationships. The balance between comedic elements and drama is masterful, ensuring the season finishes with the same authenticity and relatability that it began with.

Viewers can expect an episode filled with Adlon’s signature blend of raw honesty and humor, as the finale empathetically illustrates the indefatigable spirit of a woman navigating the highs and lows of life. Only Women Bleed not only closes the chapter on the first season of Better Things but also sets the foundation for the continued exploration of Sam's compelling story in future seasons.