Ep 3. And Brown Is the New Orange

In the third episode of the final season of Orange Is the New Black, titled "And Brown Is the New Orange," the focus shifts to Blanca Flores (Laura Gómez) as she navigates life outside of Litchfield Penitentiary on a temporary release. As she tries to re-adjust to the real world and plan for her future after prison, she faces numerous obstacles, both physical and emotional, that make her question whether she'll be able to make it on the outside.

Meanwhile, back at Litchfield, a group of the inmates form a band as part of an English as a Second Language class taught by Tamika (Susan Heyward). Trying to find their own voices through song, they navigate personal rivalries and struggles in order to make beautiful music together. But when two of the band members have a falling out, the group's performance at the upcoming prison talent show is put into jeopardy.

As always with Orange Is the New Black, cultural and social issues are front and center in this episode. Blanca's struggles as a formerly undocumented immigrant trying to stay afloat in a country that has turned its back on her are depicted with heart-wrenching realism. And the inmates' band serves as a powerful vehicle for the show's exploration of the healing power of art, as well as the way that prison can stifle creativity and expression.

Overall, "And Brown Is the New Orange" is a thought-provoking and affecting entry into the final season of Orange Is the New Black, offering a powerful look at the struggles and triumphs of life both inside and outside of prison.