Ep 3. MJB

David Makes Man season 1 episode 3, titled "MJB," follows the main character David as he struggles to balance his responsibilities and desires. As a student at a prestigious magnet school, David is expected to excel academically while also dealing with the pressures of living in poverty and caring for his little brother.

The episode begins with David waking up to his mother, Gloria, blasting Mary J. Blige music throughout their tiny apartment. Gloria is preparing for a job interview and is clearly anxious about the outcome. David, who is already running late for school, tries to help his mother calm down by offering words of encouragement and advice about the interview process.

At school, David's friend Seren approaches him with a proposition: to help him cheat on a test. Seren explains that he needs a good grade to secure his place on the school's basketball team, as he worries that he will be cut due to his poor academic performance. Despite knowing that cheating is wrong, David agrees to help Seren, feeling the weight of his own responsibilities and desires.

David's responsibilities become even more pressing when he receives a call from his brother JG's school informing him that JG has gotten into a fight. David rushes to the school, worried about his brother's safety and the consequences of his actions. When he arrives, David is surprised to learn that JG actually won the fight, and is praised by his classmates for his bravery. While David is relieved that JG is okay, he knows that he has to teach his brother to resolve conflicts through peaceful means, rather than violence.

The episode also explores David's desires, as he begins to develop a crush on his classmate Tare. Tare is an intelligent and creative girl who appears to be interested in David as well. The two share a few moments of flirtation and mutual admiration, but David is hesitant to pursue anything further due to his focus on his studies and his obligations to his family.

As the day progresses, David becomes increasingly anxious about Seren's test and JG's behavior. He finds a moment of respite when he escapes to the library and begins to read a book about architecture, his greatest passion. However, his moment of peace is interrupted when he receives a call from Gloria, who has been fired from her job. David's world is once again thrown into chaos, as he worries about his mother's mental health, their financial stability, and his ability to stay focused on his studies.

The episode ends with David taking JG to visit a friend of Gloria's who works in a hair salon. While there, David overhears the salon owner discussing the importance of networking and making connections in order to secure jobs. This moment resonates with David, who realizes that he needs to take control of his life and begin focusing on building relationships and opportunities for himself and his family.

Overall, "MJB" is a powerful episode that delves deep into the struggles and desires of its complex characters. It highlights the impact of poverty and systemic inequality on individuals and communities, while also emphasizing the importance of education, family, and self-determination. With nuanced writing, exceptional performances, and beautiful cinematography, David Makes Man continues to be a standout show that explores the human condition with profound honesty and nuance.