Ep 2. Episode 2

In the second episode of Season 1 of "Twenty Twelve" titled "Episode 2," the comedic chaos continues as the London Organizing Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) faces more challenges and setbacks in their preparations for the upcoming Olympic Games.

The episode kicks off with the incompetent Head of Deliverance, Ian Fletcher, played by Hugh Bonneville, attending a high-level meeting with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in Geneva. Despite his best efforts to please the IOC members, misunderstandings and miscommunication run rampant, leading to some hilariously disastrous moments. Meanwhile, back in London, the team at LOCOG struggles to keep the preparations on track.

One of the main concerns the team faces in this episode revolves around the Olympic mascots, Wenlock and Mandeville. Created to promote the Games to children, these quirky one-eyed creatures have become a PR nightmare for LOCOG. When the team is presented with an elaborate mascot costume, they are taken aback by its unconventional appearance and struggle to comprehend the concept behind it. In an attempt to salvage the situation, they decide to organize a focus group to gather feedback on the mascots, which leads to even more absurdity and confusion.

As the Games draw closer, the pressure on the LOCOG team intensifies, especially when they receive a visit from Sebastian Coe, the Chairman of LOCOG, played by David Tennant. Coe's authoritative presence both motivates and intimidates the already stressed-out staff. With every decision scrutinized and every detail critiqued, the pressure becomes almost unbearable.

In the midst of the chaos, the team encounters another stumbling block when they discover that some of the newly built Olympic venues are experiencing plumbing issues. This prompts them to take immediate action to address the problem. With a limited budget and strict deadlines, the team must navigate their way through bureaucratic red tape to find a solution. In true comedic fashion, their attempts to resolve the plumbing crisis end up creating further complications and hilarity ensues.

Amidst the mayhem, personal relationships and dynamics within the team are explored. Communications Director Siobhan Sharpe (played by Jessica Hynes) struggles with her obsessive need to impress and constantly seeks approval from her colleagues. She faces an unexpected challenge when her impeccable work ethic and attention to detail are called into question, forcing her to reflect on her approach.

Additionally, the enthusiastic intern, Graham Hitchins (played by Karl Theobald), continues to amuse and frustrate his colleagues with his utter lack of knowledge and tendency to make mistakes. Yet, despite his bumbling nature, he manages to bring a sense of innocence and optimism to the otherwise chaotic office environment.

As the episode progresses, "Twenty Twelve" showcases the daily struggles faced by the LOCOG team as they strive to deliver the greatest sporting event in the world. With deadlines looming and obstacles seemingly at every turn, their determination and resilience are put to the test.

"Episode 2" of "Twenty Twelve" offers a witty and satirical take on the behind-the-scenes chaos of organizing a major global event. The characters' idiosyncrasies and the awkward situations they find themselves in provide endless entertainment, while also offering a lighthearted commentary on the bureaucracy and pressures of managing the Olympic Games. With its sharp writing and hilarious performances, this episode continues to set the stage for the comedic brilliance that defines "Twenty Twelve."