Ep 6. Mrs. X at the Gaslight

Set in 1958, "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" is a comedy-drama series that follows Midge Maisel, an Upper West Side housewife who discovers a talent for stand-up comedy after her husband abruptly leaves her. Season 1 episode 6, "Mrs. X at the Gaslight," continues Midge's journey as she tries to make a name for herself in the male-dominated world of comedy.

The episode starts with Midge preparing to perform at the Gaslight Club, a popular coffee house in Greenwich Village. But before she takes the stage, she has to deal with an unexpected visitor: her mother-in-law, Mrs. Moskowitz, aka Mrs. X. Mrs. X is convinced that Midge's husband, Joel, is still in love with her and that Midge is to blame for their marital problems. Midge tries to dodge her mother-in-law by taking refuge in the club's bathroom, but Mrs. X follows her there and confronts her about her life choices.

Meanwhile, Susie, Midge's manager, is trying to deal with a different kind of problem. The club's owner, Harry, is not happy with Midge's performance and threatens to drop her from the lineup. Susie tries to negotiate with Harry, but he refuses to listen to her. Later, Susie tries to recruit new talent for the Gaslight, including a beat poet named J.C. and a group of street musicians.

Back to Midge, who finally takes the stage and performs a set that includes her signature brand of self-deprecating humor mixed with social commentary. The audience loves her, and even Harry has to admit that she's got talent. However, Midge's triumph is short-lived when she sees Joel in the audience, accompanied by his new girlfriend, Penny. Midge is devastated, but she soldiers on and finishes her set.

After the performance, Midge runs into Penny in the bathroom, and the two women have a heated exchange. Penny accuses Midge of ruining her relationship with Joel, but Midge tells her that Joel left her before she even knew about Penny. The two women eventually reach a truce, and Penny gives Midge some advice on how to deal with her mother-in-law.

The episode ends with Midge and Susie celebrating their success at a diner. Midge is still reeling from her encounter with Joel and Penny, but she's determined to keep pursuing her dream of becoming a comedian. Susie tells her that she believes in her and that they're going to make it big. Midge smiles, happy to have found a friend and ally in Susie.

Overall, "Mrs. X at the Gaslight" is a poignant and hilarious episode that showcases the show's strengths: witty writing, fantastic performances, and a lovingly recreated 1950s New York City. It also sets the stage for Midge's continued growth as a comedian and as a person. Fans of the show will not want to miss this one.