Ep 2. Harry

The Slap (US) is an American drama miniseries that aired on NBC in 2015. It is an adaptation of the Australian series of the same name, which in turn is based on the 2008 novel by Christos Tsiolkas. The show focuses on the repercussions of a single event – a man slapping another couple's misbehaving child during a birthday party – and the ensuing moral, ethical, and legal ramifications it has on a tight-knit group of family and friends.

In the second episode of the series, titled Harry, the narrative zooms in on the character after whom the episode is named, providing insight into his life and personality, and shedding light on the motives and tensions leading up to the slap that is central to the story.

Harry is a successful, self-made man with a seemingly ideal life. He's prosperous in his career, with the trappings of success that many people desire. He has a beautiful wife named Sandi, and together, they are raising their child. Harry exudes confidence and authority; however, beneath that veneer lies a complex man burdened by the pressures of expectation, both self-imposed and from those around him.

This episode delves into the aftermath of the birthday party incident, exploring Harry's perspective and the consequences he faces. Immediate and widespread judgment begins to cloud the relationships within his circle. Friends and family are forced to take sides due to the polarizing nature of Harry's actions, with several disagreeing on the appropriateness and the implications of his conduct.

As the narrative unfolds, viewers get glimpses of Harry's background, which provides context for his behavior and belief systems. His upbringing and the values instilled in him play a significant role in shaping his outlook on discipline and respect. The episode portrays how cultural and generational differences can influence parenting styles, leading to conflict and misunderstanding among a diverse group of people.

Harry is depicted as a person who strongly cherishes his family values and has clear expectations of respect and behavior not only from his child but also from those around him. The slap, while an impulsive and controversial act, starts to appear as a culmination of built-up frustrations in Harry's mind – a critical moment where control and respect are asserted in a way that clashes with the modern, more lenient attitudes toward child-rearing adopted by some of the other characters.

The episode also focuses on the strain the incident places on Harry's relationships, most notably with his wife Sandi, whose loyalty is tested amidst the chaos. It further challenges their marriage, as the couple grapples with public opinion and the legal implications that Harry is now facing, disrupting the stability of their family life.

As the community reels from the incident, friends and family are shown discussing the event, with some questioning the integrity of Harry's character, while others remain steadfast in their support, highlighting the complexity of their intertwined lives. Old friendships are pressured, and the fissures in those relationships start to show. The various reactions serve as a microcosm of broader societal debates about parental authority, corporal punishment, and the lines that define child abuse.

The episode doesn't shy away from the legal aftermath either. Viewers observe Harry as he confronts the possibility of criminal charges and the complicated legal procedures that might follow. His interactions with law enforcement and legal counsel reveal the seriousness of the situation and the potential for long-lasting repercussions.

Finally, Harry spends the episode wrestling with his own moral compass, confronting the gap between his immediate reaction at the party and the ethical considerations that come into play after the fact. This internal struggle is set against the backdrop of his interactions with other characters, who mirror the diverse opinions one might encounter in society regarding such a highly charged issue.

Throughout the episode, directorial choices, such as close-up shots and tense dialogue, ramp up the intensity and provide a deeper emotional understanding of the characters involved, particularly Harry. The inclusion of flashbacks and the strategic use of non-linear storytelling add depth to the narrative, allowing the audience to piece together Harry's psyche and apprehend the motivations behind his actions.

In summary, Harry is a crucial episode that anchors the viewer in the mindset and life of a man who has become the focal point of a divisive and emotionally charged incident. The episode adeptly explores themes of responsibility, cultural expectations, and the complexity of relationships under the strain of moral scrutiny. It sets the stage for the unfolding drama, promising to unravel the intricate web of consequences that one impulsive action has ensnared an entire community within.