A break up can be a very dramatic event in someone’s life. It can lead to people making very dramatic changes in their lives. Episode four of HBO’s Room 104 explores the lengths some will go to change. Eva (Melissa Fumero) is going through a divorce. She reluctantly decides a change in hair style may be the way to go. It turns out the makeover leads to more than cosmetic changes.
‘Bangs’ focuses on self image. Room 104 uses literal physical changes to discuss Eva’s opinions about herself. This is seen early in the episode. Eva not wanting to post on social media foreshadows what is going to happen during the episode. With each cut of her hair, more is revealed about Eva. It is clear she has questions about her own self. This was an issue even before the divorce. There may not be traditional scares, but many will find the episode terrifying due to how relatable it is.
The show is an emotional roller coaster. Eva’s initial cut leads to a meeting with a high school crush. There is a funny interaction between the two that shows of Fumero’s comedy chops. This is followed by an emotionally draining confrontation between Eva and her soon to be ex husband. This is the part of ‘Bangs’ that some may find most difficult to watch. Not because it is bad, but because the cynicism and anger is very real. The scene is simultaneously the most impacting and most flawed.
The episode is a character driven affair. The events are reminiscent of a fairy tale. Even the premise is a familiar one. The episode does a great job of adding some modern touches. ‘Bangs’ is a good episode of Room 104. The story is loud but the actual themes are personal. It is an interesting mix that makes for an excellent watch.
