Ep 2. Telling Jokes/Set Up

Louie season 3 episode 2, titled "Telling Jokes/Set Up," begins with Louie in a comedy club, telling a series of dark and self-deprecating jokes to an unresponsive crowd. After his set, he talks with a fellow comedian who tells him that she's going on a date with a guy she met online and suggests that Louie try online dating too.

The rest of the episode focuses on Louie's attempt to set up an online dating profile and navigate the world of online dating. He goes on a series of awkward dates, including one with a woman who insists on role-playing a scene in which she's a Nazi interrogating him, and another with a woman who brings her young children to the date.

In between his dating misadventures, Louie attempts to make a connection with a waitress at a cafe he frequents. He asks her out, but she tells him that she's not interested in dating anyone at the moment. Louie takes this rejection to heart and later vents his frustration to a fellow comedian.

As with much of Louie's comedy, "Telling Jokes/Set Up" balances humor with a dose of uncomfortable truth. The episode confronts the awkwardness and vulnerability of dating, especially in the age of online dating. Louie's experiences highlight the difficulty of putting oneself out there and the potential for disappointment and rejection.

At the same time, Louie's interactions with the waitress illustrate the complexity of human connection. Just because somebody is friendly or flirts with us, it doesn't necessarily mean they're interested in dating or pursuing a romantic relationship. Louie struggles with this realization throughout the episode, but ultimately accepts the waitress's decision and even finds a way to connect with her as a friend.

Overall, "Telling Jokes/Set Up" is a nuanced exploration of modern dating and the ups and downs of trying to form connections with other people. It's both funny and poignant, and showcases the depth and range of Louie's comedic and dramatic talents.