Ep 18. Her

Jack and Rebecca's love story has been one of the central themes of This Is Us since the show's inception, and the season 3 finale, titled "Her," delves into their relationship even further. The episode primarily takes place in the 1970s, when Jack and Rebecca first meet, and in the present day, as the Pearson family prepares to say goodbye to a beloved family member.

The episode opens with a montage of Jack and Rebecca's first meeting, which takes place in a bar on a rainy night. Their connection is immediate, and their chemistry is palpable. We see them dancing together, laughing, and getting to know each other. It's clear that they are both smitten with each other.

Throughout the episode, we delve deeper into Jack and Rebecca's early relationship. We see them on their first official date, which consists of a trip to an amusement park. We witness their first fight, which is over who gets to control the music in the car. And we see them overcome obstacles and challenges together, such as when they struggle to find a place to live.

But the heart of the episode is the way it explores the depth of Jack and Rebecca's love for each other. We see moments of vulnerability and tenderness that have been building up throughout the season. For example, Rebecca expresses her fears about Jack's drinking, and Jack reveals his own anxieties about being a good enough partner to Rebecca. These moments showcase the honesty and intimacy that make their relationship so enduring.

Meanwhile, in the present day, the Pearson family is preparing for a funeral. The identity of the deceased is not revealed until the end of the episode, but it's clear that this person was an important part of the family. We see the family members coming together to support each other, reminisce about happier times, and say their final goodbyes. It's a poignant reminder of the show's themes of love, loss, and family.

As the episode progresses, we see more glimpses of Jack and Rebecca's early relationship. We see them go on a road trip together, during which they open up to each other about their hopes, dreams, and past traumas. And we see Jack step up to support Rebecca when she receives devastating news about her mother's health.

The present-day scenes are interwoven with the flashbacks, creating a sense of emotional resonance between the two timelines. The Pearson family's grief over their loss is contrasted with the joy and passion of Jack and Rebecca's early love story, highlighting the bittersweet nature of life and relationships.

In the final moments of the episode, the identity of the deceased is revealed, and it's a heartbreaking moment that will leave viewers reeling. But even in their grief, the Pearsons come together to honor their loved one and find comfort in each other. And as the episode draws to a close, we see a glimpse of hope for the family's future, as they continue to navigate the challenges of life and love together.

Overall, "Her" is a fitting season finale for This Is Us, bringing together the show's various themes and storylines in a poignant and emotional way. The episode showcases the beauty and complexity of Jack and Rebecca's relationship, while also reminding us of the ways in which family can help us through even the toughest times.