Strike Up the Band

I love this series and loved this episode however I couldn't help but notice when Midge is on Stage telling a joke about articles that could be in an army magazine, she is miming using a smartphone and swiping the articles up haha. Made me chuckle, not sure how they didn't notice this, they clearly didn't have any smartphones in the late 50s! Big fan of the series though.

The times they are a-changin' and this show is finally starting to slowly move into the swinging '60s, bringing a new decade and a new Midge. The last time we saw her, she had just been offered a tour with Shy Baldwin, deciding to leave it all for a time and just dive into her passion. That will leave its own hardships, but this season has started off with the signs of better times coming, and Midge seems to be doing better than ever before. The show once again brings its signature wit and humor to the table, with some truly incredible production value to boost.

From the moment the episode begins, the production value is staggering, with colorful, lush cinematography that brings the world of the early '60s to life in bold, imaginative ways. The sheer scale of the scenes on the military base is a standout, immersing us in Midge's glamorous yet nerve-wracking gig as she steps into the world of big band performances. The large-scale numbers, complete with dazzling costumes and sweeping camera work, are not only visually impressive but also set a grand stage for Midge's evolving career. Rachel Brosnahan shines as Midge, delivering her usual blend of humor, vulnerability, and resilience. This episode sets up compelling personal and professional challenges for her character, teasing a season that promises as much complexity as it does charm. Brosnahan brings depth to Midge's journey, capturing her inner turmoil as she navigates the pressure of fame, family, and the ever-increasing stakes of her career in comedy. The scenes between Abe and Lenny Bruce add an unexpected richness to the episode, grounding the story with a nostalgic and contemplative touch. Their interactions are layered, revealing subtle yet impactful insights into Abe's shifting worldview and Lenny's perspective on fame and authenticity. It's a pleasure to watch Tony Shalhoub and Luke Kirby share scenes that highlight their exceptional chemistry and deepen the show's emotional landscape. And, of course, the trademark rapid-fire dialogue and razor-sharp wit are in full swing, crackling with humor that's as clever as it is entertaining. The episode brims with the show's signature charm, weaving humor and heart seamlessly.

"Strike Up the Band" is a stellar kickoff, balancing spectacle with depth and setting the stage for what looks to be a season packed with challenges, laughs, and triumphs. This episode serves as a reminder of the impressive craft behind "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" - a true gem that sparkles as bright as Midge herself.

This showed up on my Firestick tonight. What a pleasant surprise.

Midge finds herself part of a USO show. She is one of many acts. Her set is well received but she is at a crossroads financially. Susie is trying to do what is best, but she doesn't have the money to support herself, while Midge continues to go to the luxury apartment of her mother and father. This is going to lead to some fireworks. When Lenny Bruce comes into the picture again, Abe is furious, but he has enough integrity to go to the club where Lenny is performing, with some interesting results. Susie gets a call that is going to make for a threatening future.

Mrs. Maisel has an act at an Army base. The section on the Army base was entertaining. Line were witty and fast. However, the stuff about the family is a continuing distraction. The mother is just okay, but the father character is not funny. In fact, he's angry all the time. The ex husband tends to get into trouble. In the end, Mrs. Maisel is the only part worth watching. Jan Nylander