Ep 5. Tribulation

Schmigadoon! is a parody tribute to iconic musicals, and the show’s first season's fifth episode, "Tribulation," continues to deliver on both humor and homage to the genre. At this stage of the series, our protagonists, Melissa Gimble (Cecily Strong) and Josh Skinner (Keegan-Michael Key), have been trying to navigate their way through the peculiar, magical town of Schmigadoon, which they stumbled upon during a backpacking trip intended to rekindle their relationship. The town is a physical embodiment of classic musical theater - trapped in a bygone era, filled with larger-than-life characters, and a place where breaking into song is as natural as breathing.

As the title "Tribulation" suggests, this episode plays on the theme of trials and hardships, aptly punctuated by the song and dance numbers that Schmigadoon is known for. With the unwavering rule that they cannot leave the town until they find true love, Melissa and Josh have already faced several hurdles, and "Tribulation" throws new challenges at them while uncovering more about the mysterious musical world they're trapped in.

Melissa, a physician who feels deeply for the residents' woes and joys, becomes increasingly entangled in the quaint rhythms of Schmigadoon life. Her love for the genre and her kind-hearted nature lead her to forge stronger connections with the townsfolk, as she seeks a role within the community and strives to understand the nature of true love. Contrastingly, Josh, who has already been seen as somewhat resistant to the town’s charms, faces additional frustrations and begins to question their ever-escaping departure.

Meanwhile, the town of Schmigadoon, with its bright Technicolor palette and perpetual optimism, undergoes a transformation as the episode delves into the darker underbelly of the musical facade. The quirky caricatures of classic musical archetypes that the town's residents represent become more nuanced, revealing the complexities and less-than-perfect aspects of life—blemishes on the idyllic world they inhabit.

Subplots intertwine as the central couple's tribulations manifest in various forms, including romantic, ethical, and even metaphysical dilemmas. Relationships are tested, not just between Melissa and Josh, but among the townspeople as well, as secrets are teased and tensions rise. It's evident that everyone has their own personal tribulation to face, and the characters' multiple storylines begin to converge in unexpected ways.

In this episode, musical numbers reflect the sense of trial and adversity faced by the protagonists. These performances tweak and twist beloved musical tropes, with the show's creators showcasing their deep understanding of the genre's patterns and how to playfully subvert them for both comedy and commentary. The songs in "Tribulation" range from the introspective solo ballads to rousing ensemble pieces that serve to further character development and plot progression.

The episode's design, from the set pieces to the costumes, faithfully recreates a sense of nostalgia while also satirizing the very elements it celebrates. Each visual detail and camera angle feels meticulously crafted to evoke a response that is both familiar and fresh to those well-versed in musical theater.

Despite its comical nature, "Tribulation" doesn't shy away from touching on more profound themes. It examines notions of love, commitment, personal growth, and the courage to confront one's own flaws and failings. As the characters embark on their individual journeys of discovery, they're pushed to consider what it means to lead an authentic life and to make genuine connections with others.

This amalgamation of golden-age musical homage and modern sensibilities creates a unique dynamic that allows Schmigadoon! to resonate with a contemporary audience while still indulging in the joy and escapism of the musicals of yesteryear. The show's creators succeed in making each episode, “Tribulation” included, a self-contained piece of entertainment that contributes to a larger, overarching story that is engaging, touching, and delightfully absurd.

Viewers can expect "Tribulation" to be a compelling addition to the season, one that artfully increases the stakes for all characters involved. It promises laughs, catchy tunes, and a heartfelt look at the messy complexities of love, sprinkled with plenty of Easter eggs and nods for musical aficionados. Amidst the whimsy and fanfare, the episode also continues to build towards what one hopes will be a satisfying resolution to the enchanting enigma that is Schmigadoon.