Ep 2. Up to No Good

In this episode of Staged, entitled "Up to No Good," we follow the continuing misadventures of actors David Tennant and Michael Sheen as they navigate their new reality of rehearsing a play via video call in the midst of a global pandemic. The episode opens with David and Michael bickering over the internet connection and Michael's choice of background for their virtual meeting.

Things take a turn when David receives a suspicious email from his agent informing him of a movie script offer from acclaimed director Taika Waititi. The catch? The script requires David to play a character with a severe facial deformity. Despite Michael's concerns, David becomes increasingly obsessed with the idea of taking on the challenge, leading to a series of hilarious attempts to hide his perfectly normal face during their video rehearsals.

Meanwhile, tensions between David and his wife, Georgia, come to a head as she becomes increasingly frustrated with David's lack of attention and constant distraction. Michael attempts to intervene and offer his support, but quickly finds himself in over his head as Georgia lashes out at him as well.

Throughout it all, the actors continue to struggle with the challenges of rehearsing remotely, leading to a disastrous run-through of their play that leaves everyone feeling discouraged and frustrated. However, in the final moments of the episode, David receives a surprise call from his agent that may just turn things around for the struggling actors.

With sharp writing, clever dialogue, and standout performances from Tennant and Sheen, "Up to No Good" is a standout episode of Staged that will leave viewers both laughing and emotionally invested in the characters' journeys.