Home Economics Review: Mango THC Gummies, $18 (Season 2 Epidode 20)

Home Economics takes us on a delightful trip to the theater with plenty of shenanigans including a very high Marina and June Diane Raphael guest starring on Season 2 Episode 20, “Mango THC Gummies, $18.”

This show regularly shakes things up by avoiding predictable storylines. Not only with the big twists but with subtle, precise plot points, too. The latter has a bigger impact by consistently taking the stories in unexpected directions that either simply and pleasantly surprise or introduce a key shift to the larger narrative. 

When Marina brings out the edibles to suggest to Tom that he take it in order to relax while awaiting news from his agent, it seems we’re in for a redundant yet charming storyline of sweet, innocent Tom high as a kite. 

We’ve seen elements of this before on Home Economics Season 2 Episode 3, “Bottle Service, $800 Plus Tip (25% Suggested),” with Tom’s adorkable placebo-effect ecstasy-trip performance. And then again, drugged up after his vasectomy on Season 2 Episode 14, “Salsa Competition Entry Fee, $45.”

Both of these instances are funny and I wouldn’t have even been mad if it did go that route, but I am pleased and delighted with the turn of events as they play out. 

Marina is hilarious high, which is to be expected given Karla Souza’s comedic prowess. The pot plot is made even funnier when it’s revealed that her boss—who, at first, seems to be an odd and random addition—is also “tripping balls.” I was ready to write off the character’s appearance as an aberrant comedy bit that doesn’t land. 

Oh, but it lands. It lands like “Jerry Garcia on the space shuttle” returning from orbit. 

Tom: I can’t believe you’re both high.
Richard: Don’t be such a square, Tom. Now, can you help me back to my seat? I can’t feel my legs.
Marina: I can’t feel my hands.

Another lovely surprise is funny lady June Diane Raphael guest starring as Windmount Academy’s apathetic Vice Principal, Lauren.

Denise: You seem fun.
Lauren: I’m not.  

She does seem to be fun for Connor, though. 

Again, I underestimate the show’s ability to keep me on my toes. Having Raphael play a role so gloriously similar to that of Brianna Hanson, her character on Grace and Frankie, in the Home Economics universe is a special treat.

Just when I think she’s only there to stress Sarah out even more, she becomes a possible love interest for Connor. I may have not picked up on that right away, but as soon as the two share the screen I can see it coming. 

And now I’m as stressed out as Sarah. 

I’m stressed because since Season 2 Episode 13, “Pregnancy Test, $12.98,” I’ve been confident that once JoJo returns from shooting Influencer Lagoon, she and Connor will get back together. I really like him with JoJo, but it’d also be really interesting to see the tension that Lauren could bring to that dynamic. 

Love triangles can be difficult subject matter, but Home Economics has proved time and again that it can create challenging storylines that avoid the trope-y traps. 

What did you think of this episode of Home Economics? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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Home Economics airs Wednesdays at 9:30/8:30c on ABC.

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