Ep 2. Access

In the second episode of Pose, titled 'Access', the ballroom culture of the 1980s is further explored through the lives of its colorful and vibrant characters. The episode opens with Pray Tell, the emcee of the House of Evangelista, mourning the loss of one of his loved ones to the AIDS epidemic. This somber moment sets the tone for the rest of the episode, as the characters continue to navigate the challenges of their everyday lives.

Blanca, the mother of the House of Evangelista, is determined to take her house to the next level by competing in the upcoming Mother's Ball. However, her plan hits a snag when she discovers that they do not meet the eligibility requirements for the category they want to compete in. Undeterred, Blanca decides to take matters into her own hands and seek access to the resources that will help her house succeed.

In this quest for access, Blanca confronts the owner of a salon who she believes can help her secure the styling products her house needs. The tense exchange between Blanca and the salon owner highlights the discrimination faced by the LGBT+ community, particularly people of color and those who don't conform to traditional gender roles. Despite this, Blanca remains determined to fight for her house's rights and refuses to back down.

Meanwhile, Damon, a member of the House of Evangelista, faces his own struggles as he prepares for an audition at a prestigious dance school. He receives guidance from Lil Papi, one of the more street-wise members of the house, who helps him hone his skills and gives him the confidence he needs to succeed. Lil Papi's tough-love approach and sharp wit provide a welcome contrast to the seriousness of some of the other characters.

Finally, the episode also delves deeper into the lives of Angel and Stan, two characters from different worlds who are drawn together by their attraction to one another. Their burgeoning relationship faces various obstacles, including Stan's marriage and Angel's work as a prostitute. However, their chemistry is undeniable, and their scenes together bring a sense of hope and optimism to an episode that deals with some heavy subject matter.

Overall, 'Access' is a compelling and thought-provoking episode that highlights the struggles and triumphs of the ballroom community. It touches on themes such as discrimination, sexuality, and the AIDS epidemic, all while showcasing the strength and resilience of its diverse set of characters. Pose continues to be a powerful and groundbreaking series that sheds light on a previously overlooked part of LGBTQ+ history.