Ep 3. Escape Drill

In Better Things season 4 episode 3, titled "Escape Drill", Sam (played by Pamela Adlon) finds herself having to deal with a variety of challenges. The episode takes place on a day when Sam has organized an escape drill for the family household, something that she insists is important for their safety. As with almost anything else she does, this has not been met with enthusiasm from her children. All three of them are reluctant participants, with Mikey being outright hostile towards the notion.

As the episode progresses, it becomes clear that the escape drill is not the only source of tension for Sam. She has to navigate a series of interactions with friends, family members, and strangers, each of which presents its own set of challenges. From dealing with her elderly mother, who is rapidly losing her faculties, to trying to negotiate a deal for the sale of a house, to comforting her youngest daughter Duke when she encounters a group of unfriendly classmates, Sam is stretched very thin.

Despite all of these challenges, Sam remains a forceful presence throughout the episode. She is determined to get everything done and to do it in her own way. This means making tough decisions and sometimes resorting to unconventional means to get the outcome she desires. Along the way, we see a side of her that we may not have seen before. She is vulnerable, but also fierce. She is kind, but also tough. She is a complex and multifaceted character, and this episode lets us see all of those different sides.

As the episode draws to a close, we see Sam reflecting on the events of the day. She is exhausted, but also proud of what she has accomplished. She has managed to deal with everything that has come her way, and has emerged on the other side with her head held high. Despite the many challenges she has faced, she has remained true to herself and has never lost sight of what is important to her.

Overall, "Escape Drill" is a fantastic episode of Better Things. It showcases the incredible talent of Pamela Adlon as both a writer and an actress, and provides a glimpse into the complex and often chaotic world of a single mother trying to hold everything together. The show has always been known for its raw and honest portrayal of family life, and this episode is no exception. It is a must-watch for fans of the series, and a great starting point for anyone looking to get into the show.