While last week's episode didn't have anything new, this week's episode gets the overall plot moving rapidly. The scripts are set and filming starts, so a finished product shouldn't be too far away, because there are only 7 episodes in the season and only four left.
In "Episode Three," Pucks! actually looks like a decent show which could air on CBS. Everyone, including both Lincolns, are laughing at the table read. The scene we see shot isn't anything special, but at least it's funny. Then, Matt manages to convince Sean into changing the lesbian, and most surprising thing, he has good reasoning. British shows have less episodes, so things like a guy constantly hitting on a lesbian doesn't get old. However, in American shows which have over 20 episodes per season, the audience will eventually want more. That makes perfect sense and Sean buys it.
As we see these developments, the message of Episodes is coming out. American television isn't necessarily worse than British television, but it is infused with lots of money which creates many problems and pitfalls. The sheer scope of production often dwarfs those involved. Merc can't keep track of the shows, Matt LeBlanc is randomly placed on the show, and the headmaster becomes a hockey coach. In a world where networks want more shows and bigger audiences, it's hard to fault them for sacrificing quality (which is why cable is the place to watch quality television).
Episodes does a reasonable job with character development, quickly putting Beverly on the outside looking in. Sean is becoming friends with Matt and ignoring Beverly in the process, and Matt first turns to Sean with questions about the show.
Three episodes into the show, and I'm liking Stephen Mangan and Tamsin Greig much more than Matt LeBlanc. They're very natural together whether they're fighting or making up. Even though we know everything will turn bad, teased by the beginning of the first episode, Sean and Beverly are fun, likable characters to follow.
Score: 8.6/10
