Ep 7. Nowadays
- TVMA
- May 21, 2019
- 55 min
-
8.3 (399)
It's showtime in Fosse/Verdon season 1 episode 7, titled "Nowadays." The episode presents an all-too familiar standoff between creative genius and personal relationships, as Bob Fosse (Sam Rockwell) and Gwen Verdon (Michelle Williams) face their fears, insecurities, and failures.
"Nowadays" focuses on the rehearsals and the opening night of Chicago, one of the most commercially successful musicals of all time, which Fosse directed and choreographed in 1975. The episode transports the viewers back in time, plunging them into the thrilling yet chaotic world of burlesque showbiz, where beauty meets cynicism, hope mingles with self-doubt.
Bob Fosse is at the peak of his career as the episode opens. The success of Cabaret has elevated his profile as a formidable filmmaker and choreographer, and everyone wants a piece of him. However, the initial joy and excitement of creating Chicago are short-lived, as Fosse starts to grapple with his personal demons. He is under immense pressure to deliver another hit, and the budget constraints and artistic conflicts begin to take a toll on him.
As always, Gwen Verdon is by his side, offering advice, comfort, and support. However, the episode explores the cracks in their relationship, especially as Verdon is forced to take a backseat in the making of Chicago. Fosse's obsession with Ann Reinking, the rising star who plays the lead role of Roxie Hart, further exacerbates their strained dynamic. Verdon desperately tries to hold on to her husband's attention while struggling with her own insecurities about aging and losing relevance in the industry.
The episode thrives on several themes that are quintessentially Fosse - glamour, sex, and death. The musical numbers are full of razzle-dazzle, with Reinking and the ensemble cast performing iconic tracks such as "Razzle Dazzle" and "All That Jazz." However, the show's dark subject matter, which involves murder, betrayal, and corruption, also seeps into Fosse's personal life. He struggles with his mortality, as his heart problems and chain-smoking habit intensify.
Meanwhile, Verdon navigates the sexist and ageist nature of the industry, where women are only as good as their youth and beauty. She is sidelined by Fosse's fixation on Reinking, and her role as a consultant on Chicago goes largely unacknowledged by the producers. The episode does a brilliant job of showcasing Verdon's resilience, talent, and wit, as she refuses to wilt under pressure and continues to fight for recognition.
The supporting cast shines in "Nowadays," with several standout performances. Margaret Qualley, who plays Ann Reinking, captures the essence of the talented yet conflicted dancer who yearns for Fosse's love and approval. Bewitched star Elizabeth Montgomery makes a memorable appearance as a powerful and cunning producer who is not afraid to call the shots. Character actor Paul Reiser infuses humor and pathos into his portrayal of Cy Feuer, the co-producer who clashes with Fosse on the artistic direction of Chicago.
As the episode heads towards its climactic opening night, the tension and drama escalate. Fosse's health takes a turn for the worse, and Verdon is consumed by the fear of failure. The final musical number, "Nowadays/Hot Honey Rag," is a tour-de-force, with Reinking and the cast giving it their all on stage. The audience is left spellbound, but Fosse and Verdon are forced to confront the aftermath of their creation, both in terms of their professional relationship and their personal lives.
Overall, "Nowadays" is a compelling and introspective episode of Fosse/Verdon, one that delves deep into the complex personalities and dynamics that shaped one of the most iconic musicals in history. The episode is a testament to the power of collaboration and the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity, even in the cutthroat world of show business.