Ep 7. Seven Twenty Seven

In Mad Men season 3 episode 7, titled "Seven Twenty Seven," the tension between Don Draper and Betty Draper continues to grow, as Betty becomes increasingly aware of Don's distant behavior and lack of emotional connection. Meanwhile, the advertising agency is tasked with coming up with a new campaign for the airline Mohawk, and Don becomes fixated on the number "727," which he believes is a sign that he should take risks and make bold decisions. This obsession with the number leads to some unexpected developments in both his personal and professional life.

The episode opens with Don and Betty in bed together, but it's clear that there is a growing distance between them. Betty tries to engage Don in conversation about her day and their children, but he's distracted and dismissive. He tells her he has a lot on his mind and needs to focus on work, which only makes her feel more alone.

At the office, the creative team is brainstorming ideas for the Mohawk campaign. Don is uncharacteristically quiet, but when someone mentions the number 727, he perks up and becomes determined to incorporate it into the campaign. His colleagues are skeptical, but Don is convinced that the number has special significance and could be the key to a successful campaign.

Meanwhile, Betty is frustrated with her own life and feels like she's lost her sense of purpose. She confides in her friend Francine, admitting that she feels like she's just going through the motions and doesn't know what she wants out of life. Francine suggests that Betty start volunteering or taking on a new hobby, but it's clear that Betty is stuck in a rut.

Back at the office, Don is still fixated on the number 727, and he becomes increasingly reckless in his pursuit of success. He takes a big risk in a meeting with a potential client, and though the outcome is initially positive, things quickly spiral out of control. Don is forced to confront the consequences of his actions, and in doing so, he begins to realize that he can't simply rely on luck and chance to succeed.

As the episode comes to a close, Don and Betty's relationship is at a breaking point. Betty has become increasingly aware of Don's emotional detachment, and she's not sure if she can continue living this way. Don, for his part, is beginning to recognize that he can't keep running from his problems or relying on his instincts to guide him. The number 727 may have been a sign to take risks, but it also serves as a warning that nothing in life is guaranteed.

Overall, "Seven Twenty Seven" is a tense and introspective episode that delves deep into the characters' psyches and explores the themes of risk and reward, luck and chance, and the meaning of success. As always, the writing and acting are top-notch, and the episode leaves viewers on the edge of their seats, wondering what will happen next.