Last week we met the members at Moonbase 8 hoping to be selected for a special mission in space. The training of an astronaut can be grueling physically but can take an emotional toll as well. The constant isolation from the ones you love can be hard to manage and some of the team find it more difficult than others.
[Slight Spoilers Ahead]
Rook tries his best to stay connected with his large family back home. He makes videos of his life at Moonbase 8 to send and FaceTimes with them when he can. However, it’s not enough and he contemplates whether he should quit the mission to be home when his next child is born. Also, he feels his work his underappreciated by his colleagues and they don’t share his same religious beliefs.
At the same time, a local transient is pilfering items from around the base. He proves to be a slippery character since the team still have to abide by space rules and put on their suits before going outside to catch him.
“Rats” puts the focus on Rook as we learn more about him. He proves to be a more sympathetic character than Cap because most of issues aren’t necessarily self-inflicted. It’s understandable that he may feel withdrawn from the other two because of their differences.
But also, his marriage may not be as strong as you’d expect and you feel for him seeing that he may have been duped into joining the mission. Realistically speaking, how many potential converts are there on the moon to spread the word of God to. Heidecker effectively conveys the disappointment and sadness from a man in his situation during the serious moments of the episode.
It was sweet seeing the nice gestures from the team at trying to convince him to stay. Cap started off with the totally platonic skin to skin hug then made efforts to cater to Rook’s religious practices and encourage his ideas. Though it was more for selfish reasons, they were still kind gestures. Even the usually awkward Skip showed a more sentimental side by bringing out the lab rat, Jeremy, for a final goodbye.
The thief plot was an amusing side story to Rook’s main narrative. It showed how little rhythm the group has as they practice putting on the space suits to a beat. In addition, it’s funny how a single prowler can single handedly outsmart these astronauts, especially when he steals all the wheels to their rover. When he finally is caught, it’s more because he feels sorry for Cap. He is a surprising source of wise words making Cap realize he can’t control everything and needs to learn to let go with Rook.
The second episode of Moonbase 8 provides an interesting and sympathetic spotlight on Heidecker’s Rook. Though he flirts with breaking up the gang, it only strengthens their bond and resolve to make it to the moon together.
Moonbase 8 airs Sunday nights on Showtime.
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