Ep 7. Hers Was a World of One

Hers Was a World of One is the seventh episode of the first season of the Amazon Prime original series Modern Love, which is a romantic comedy-drama anthology series based on the popular New York Times column of the same name. This episode revolves around a woman named Yasmine, who is deaf and uses American Sign Language (ASL) to communicate.

Yasmine is played by actress and deaf advocate Diora Baird, who brings a unique perspective to the role as a deaf actress herself. In this episode, viewers follow Yasmine as she navigates the challenges of dating and finding love in a world designed for hearing people.

The episode opens with Yasmine on a date with a hearing man named Rob, played by actor John Gallagher Jr. The two seem to be hitting it off, but as the night progresses, Yasmine becomes frustrated by the communication barriers they face due to her deafness. Despite Rob's attempts to engage in conversation through writing and lip-reading, Yasmine feels isolated and withdrawn, unable to fully connect with her date.

As the episode progresses, viewers are given a glimpse into Yasmine's world and the daily struggles she faces as a deaf person. This includes scenes where she works as an interpreter, helping to facilitate communication for a hearing-impaired client, and a flashback to her childhood where she is chastised by a teacher for not being able to hear.

Throughout the episode, Yasmine is contrasted with a hearing couple, one of whom is a client she interprets for. This couple represents the conventional romantic ideal, where communication flows naturally and effortlessly. Meanwhile, Yasmine is constantly reminded of her isolation and the challenges of not being able to hear and speak like those around her.

Despite these challenges, Yasmine remains confident and self-assured. She is determined to find love but also recognizes the importance of self-love and acceptance. The episode culminates in a powerful moment where Yasmine gives a stirring speech at a public hearing, advocating for the need for greater accessibility for the deaf community.

Overall, Hers Was a World of One is a poignant and heartfelt episode that sheds light on the unique challenges faced by deaf individuals in society. It is a testament to the power of love and the importance of communication, despite any barriers that may exist. Baird's performance is especially noteworthy, providing a powerful and authentic portrayal of a character that is often underrepresented in television and film.