Ep 7. Underground

In the seventh episode of BoJack Horseman season 4, titled "Underground", we see BoJack struggling with his past traumas and dark thoughts. The episode starts with BoJack in therapy with his new therapist, Dr. Janet (voiced by Angela Bassett), who suggests that he should try a new form of therapy called EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to help him deal with his past.

BoJack is skeptical at first but decides to give it a try. Throughout the episode, we see BoJack getting flashbacks of his past, specifically his childhood with his abusive mother. These flashbacks are triggered by specific phrases or objects like a dollhouse or a musical toy.

We also see Princess Carolyn trying to balance her work life and her personal life, as she struggles to take care of Ruthie, her adopted daughter. Meanwhile, Todd is introduced to a new underground society of people who live in the sewers and help one another out. Todd quickly becomes enamored with this new world and tries to help them out by being a mediator between their group and the city above.

As BoJack continues his EMDR session, we see him travel through his past traumas, slowly unraveling the pain he's been carrying with him for so long. Dr. Janet guides him, helping him to face those demons and come to terms with his past. Throughout the session, BoJack is tested as he confronts his past actions and the fallout of those actions.

The episode ends with BoJack finally facing his biggest fear and confronting his mother. Through the EMDR therapy, BoJack is able to see things from a different perspective and comes to terms with his emotions. The episode leaves us with a sense of hope as BoJack begins his journey towards healing.

"Underground" is a powerful and emotional episode that deals with heavy themes of trauma and mental health. The use of EMDR therapy as a narrative device is brilliant and allows us to see BoJack's internal struggle in a new light. The episode also gives insight into each character's individual struggles, which highlights the show's ability to tackle delicate issues with honesty and sensitivity. Overall, "Underground" is a standout episode that leaves a lasting impact on the viewer.