Ep 2. Incoming Tide

Olive Kitteridge is a TV miniseries consisting of four episodes based on the novel of the same name by Elizabeth Strout. In season 1's second episode called "Incoming Tide," we follow Olive Kitteridge as she comes to terms with the changes that are happening around her. The episode begins with Olive (played by Frances McDormand) and her husband Henry (Richard Jenkins) discussing the recent changes in their town, Crosby, Maine. The rise of tourism has brought in new people and new businesses, and the locals are not happy about it.

As the episode progresses, we see Olive teaching a math class at the local high school, where she witnesses the challenges of the younger generation. Her son Chris (John Gallagher Jr.) is also adjusting to change as he returns to Crosby after being away for many years. He reconnects with an old friend, Ann (Zoe Kazan) who is now married with two children. Their rekindled friendship brings up memories and feelings from the past. Meanwhile, their teenage son is having a hard time fitting in with the local kids.

At the same time, Olive is grappling with her own challenges, including her aging body and the loss of her mother. She is also dealing with the arrival of a new nurse, a Vietnamese immigrant named Patti (played by Hong Chau), who is assigned to care for Henry. Patti's arrival stirs up some unexpected emotions and memories in Olive, who had previously been dismissive and judgmental of her.

Throughout the episode, we see Olive's interactions with various people in the town, and her struggle to reach out to others. Her relationship with her husband is strained, as they both deal with the challenges of aging and the changes in their lives. Olive seems to be struggling to find her place in a world that is rapidly changing around her.

The episode concludes with Olive and Henry standing on the beach, watching the incoming tide. The image of the ocean serves as a metaphor for the inevitability of change, and the uncertainties that lie ahead. Olive is a complex character, who is both prickly and vulnerable, and the episode does an excellent job of exploring her character in depth. The acting is excellent, particularly Frances McDormand's portrayal of Olive, which is both nuanced and nuanced. The episode also touches on themes of identity, family, and the passing of time.

Overall, "Incoming Tide" is a compelling and thought-provoking episode that leaves the audience wanting more. The characters are well-developed, and the storylines are engaging. The episode does an excellent job of exploring the complexities of life, and the emotional struggles that we all face as we navigate the changing world around us. Olive Kitteridge is a must-see for anyone who enjoys nuanced character-driven dramas.