Ep 5. Kick the Can

The episode "Kick the Can" from the first season of Togetherness focuses on the struggles of the four central characters as they navigate their individual problems while trying to maintain the illusion of a happy family life.

Brett and Michelle's marriage continues to be strained, as Michelle spends more and more time with David and his girlfriend, Christy. Brett is feeling increasingly left out and unimportant, leading him to lash out at Michelle and question his own value within the family unit.

At the same time, Tina is grappling with her own insecurities as she tries to build a life for herself in Los Angeles. She has a few promising job interviews, but struggles with feeling out of place in a city that seems so unfamiliar. Alex is also struggling to find his footing, as he tries to make a career in the entertainment industry without sacrificing his artistic integrity.

The central event of the episode is a game of kick the can that the group decides to play on a whim. As they hop around the backyard and try to outrun each other, tensions begin to rise as buried resentments and insecurities bubble to the surface.

Despite the game's lighthearted tone, the characters are using it as a way to express their frustrations with each other and the world at large. Brett is angry at Michelle for making him feel irrelevant; Michelle is frustrated with Brett's lack of emotional connection; Tina is struggling with feeling like an outsider; and Alex is feeling disillusioned with the entire entertainment industry.

As the game progresses, the characters begin to reveal more and more of their true feelings, leading to several tense confrontations. Brett and Michelle argue over their current living situation, while Alex and Tina have a heart-to-heart about the pressures of making it in Hollywood.

Ultimately, the game of kick the can is a metaphor for the characters' attempts to escape their problems and find some sense of joy in their lives. However, as the episode concludes, it becomes clear that their troubles are far from over. The cracks in their relationships are deepening, and it remains to be seen whether they will be able to come together or drift further apart.

"Kick the Can" is a poignant and insightful episode that delves into the complexities of modern family life. With strong performances from the talented cast and sharp writing that captures the nuances of everyday interactions, it's a standout installment in an already excellent series.