Ep 2. Who We Are

Two best friends Kate (played by Shoshannah Stern) and Michael (played by Josh Feldman) navigate their complex lives in Hollywood as deaf people. In This Close season 1 episode 2, titled "Who We Are," Kate and Michael both face personal and professional challenges that test their friendship.

Michael gets a job offer from a prominent management company, which seems like an exciting opportunity. However, as he looks into the company's reputation, he realizes that it has a history of exploiting deaf actors. Michael grapples with whether to take the job, which would help his career but could also compromise his values. To complicate matters, his boyfriend Ryan (played by Zach Gilford) is set to leave for a business trip and Michael feels pressured to make a decision before he goes.

Meanwhile, Kate's girlfriend Ali (played by Colt Prattes) invites her to a dinner party with her friends. Kate is nervous about being around a group of hearing people since she's used to communicating primarily in sign language. At the party, Kate meets Ali's ex-boyfriend, who seems to be trying to undermine their relationship. Kate also has to deal with her own insecurity about not being able to hear music or fully participate in the conversation.

As Kate and Michael navigate their individual challenges, they lean on each other for support. They have frank conversations about their feelings and their fears, showcasing their strong bond and deep understanding of each other. Along the way, they also help each other find the strength to make difficult decisions and stand up for themselves.

Throughout the episode, This Close explores themes of identity, loyalty, and self-discovery. The show's use of sign language and captions provides a unique perspective on the deaf experience, highlighting the barriers that deaf people face in a hearing world while also showcasing their resilience and strength. The performances by Stern and Feldman are nuanced and heartfelt, capturing the nuances of their characters' struggles and triumphs.

Overall, This Close season 1 episode 2 is a moving and thought-provoking exploration of friendship, love, and what it means to be true to oneself. The show continues to be a powerful addition to the TV landscape, offering a refreshing perspective on disability, diversity, and representation.