Julia Season 2 Episode 8 Review: Lobster Américaine

Julia ends its stellar second season with resolutions for almost every character…but is that a good thing? In many ways, Julia Season 2 Episode 8 “Lobster Américaine” feels like a series finale. That scares us.

It’s commendable that Julia recognizes the complicated world of television and tries to offer a happy ending for characters and viewers. The networks seem ready to cancel great shows at the first sign of trouble.  Therefore, we understand and appreciate a nice neat ending.

Nonetheless, it adds a layer of stress. We’re not ready for our Julia to end. It’s such a bright, hopeful, and satisfying show that we need at least a few more seasons.

WGBH and Julia are changing, and we want to enjoy the ride for a few more years.

Alice and Judith especially have nearly perfect resolutions to their arcs in “Lobster Américaine.” However, clearly, both women still have major battles ahead. Judith still needs to fight for her place at her company — even more so with Blanche retired.

But, Blanche’s kind words over the last couple of episodes of Julia have given Judith confidence to succeed. We need to continue to see her thrive.

Much of Season 2 focuses on Alice’s evolution in her professional and personal life. Therefore, her engagement and win with For Women By Women is the ideal conclusion for her. Alice, however, definitely continues to have struggles as well.

Alice and Isaac must learn to navigate their new relationship dynamic. Additionally, we don’t know how he will adjust to life in Boston versus life in New York.

Alice’s picture-perfect life could face complications.

Now, if we look at the other side of the coin, this Julia finale represents the end of the first two chapters and the beginning of a whole new course. Isaac and Alice’s engagement means Tosin Morohunfola could become a series regular in a potential third season.

It also means more layers to Alice’s story. How does life look for Alice as a wife?

Additionally, Marian joining Julia’s team means a major step forward. It also means a new work dynamic for Russ. Erin Neufer also likely will become a new series regular if the show continues.

Marian has been in the background of Russ’s life for both seasons, but we know so little about her. This could give us the chance to know her. It also allows us to know Russ better as well.

A new beginning is a good thing as long as it’s that and not a way to say goodbye.

It’s not a completely happy ending for Judith, Alice, and many Julia characters, but pretty close. Therefore, “Lobster Américaine” could work as the end of the show. As someone who has been burned before by cliffhangers and cancellations, I appreciate Julia for not taking the cliffhanger route.

It’s just worrying that this could be the final episode of a brilliant show. It has so much more story to tell. The revolution still needs televising.

Stray Thoughts

• Seeing Frank get bested by the entire WGBH team offers such a satisfying conclusion to this storyline.
• It also reminds us of the power of this team. Unbeknownst to them, they are revolutionary.
• “Lobster Américaine” has one of the show’s best scores. It’s especially effective during the Frank raid scenes. It creates humor and suspense.
• This episode made me notice the small details that capture the time, such as the classic Lays bag.
  Alice and her mother’s dynamic remains a highlight of each episode. The “buying the cow” scene is so funny and entertaining.
• I love Avis’s “f–k that guy” about Stanley all episode. Because truly, f–k that guy.
• Curious to see how Madhur Jaffrey’s introduction plays into a potential future season.
• Glad Albert is staying. He’s the curmudgeon we need.

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

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