Ep 7. The Most Disappointed Man

In This Is Us season 2 episode 7, titled "The Most Disappointed Man," viewers are taken on an emotional journey that explores the complex relationships and struggles within the Pearson family. As the title suggests, the episode focuses on the character of Randall, who is grappling with feelings of disappointment and disillusionment in both his personal and professional life.

At the center of Randall's struggles is his job as a city councilman, which he initially pursued as a way to make a positive impact on his community. However, as time goes on, he begins to realize the harsh realities of politics and the compromises that come with the job. This realization is made even more difficult by the fact that his mother, Rebecca, is not supportive of his career path and seems to be constantly questioning his decisions.

As Randall navigates these challenges, he also grapples with his relationship with his wife, Beth. The couple has always been portrayed as a strong and loving team, but in this episode, tensions arise as they struggle to balance their busy lives and the demands of their children. Beth is dealing with her own frustrations at work, leading to tension and disagreements between the couple.

Throughout the episode, viewers are taken on a journey through the past and present, as we see how Randall's relationship with his mother and siblings has shaped his current struggles. In particular, flashbacks to his childhood highlight the tension between Randall and his brother Kevin, as they compete for their mother's attention and affection. Meanwhile, flash-forwards provide a glimpse of the future, adding a layer of mystery and intrigue to the episode.

As with all episodes of This Is Us, "The Most Disappointed Man" is a masterclass in emotional storytelling. While the plot may not seem particularly groundbreaking on paper, the episode is elevated by the talent of the cast and the show's signature style of switching between timelines to create a multifaceted and nuanced story. Viewers will undoubtedly be left feeling a mix of emotions by the time the credits roll, as they process the complex relationships and struggles that have been laid out before them.

Overall, "The Most Disappointed Man" is a poignant and thought-provoking episode that prominently features the character of Randall Pearson. It provides a deep dive into the struggles he faces in his professional and personal life, as well as the impact of his relationships with his mother and siblings. Fans of the show will undoubtedly find themselves wrapped up in the emotional journey of the Pearson family, eager to see what happens next in their story.