After a strong premiere, Stumptown improves on itself with a very strong second episode. It builds on the information that was given to us in the first episode. One of my few complaints were that Jake Johnson's character was not up to snuff, especially compared to the other characters. Despite the charm, he was only seen as a potential love interest. Well, the writers must have heard my complaints. He and Dex were given a backstory about how they first met...which was a one-night stand. Given their platonic relationship in current day, it was clear that they did not have the spark. I thought it was a fun idea to develop a platonic, asexual relationship although I do not think that will continue. We also learn that Grey may have had a checkered past with the introduction of Austin Amelio's character. While the set pieces may be toned down in comparison to the premiere, the writers remain as ardent as ever to create strong characters. They also do a solid job developing the week-by-week case.
In "Missed Connections," we learn how Dex and Grey became friends six years earlier. Grey connects Dex with a scrawny man named Allen who offers to pay Dex some money if he can find a woman he met at a bar earlier and disappeared. Dex is able to locate Katrina but there is more than what meets the eye. Hoffman informs her that Katrina is a con artist. Meanwhile, someone from Grey's past enters his life again and asks for help. After he refused, Jack was found murdered. Hoffman's boss, Lt. Cosgrove advises Dex to apply for a license so she can legally work as a PI.
Overall, a fantastic episode that further develops the characters. We learn more about Grey and the type of man he is and what kind of friendship he has with Dex. As for the case of the week, it's a standard case but it also goes to show how desperate Dex is for money. The humor continues to shine, especially in the car! Who knows how long this joke can work but so far, it provided many laughs. The machine certainly has good taste in music!
My Grade: A-
