The episode begins with Julian Hartswood (Ben Miller) awkwardly meeting Yolanda Cox (Charlotte Nicdao). Things only get more awkward when he tells her that he’s changed his mind about the documentary for fear that it might be considered exploitative. He cites the same excuse when he speaks with Heidi (Kate Elliott) several minutes later.
Things are no less awkward for Austin Hogan (Michael Theo) when he cooks Mel Hogan (Gia Caides) breakfast in bed to request her permission for the trip to Britain. Matters certainly are improved when she hints at going with him and he lets her know that’s out of the question.
Julian returns to Ingrid Hartswood (Sally Phillips) with a feigned annoyance over the arrival of Yolanda. It doesn’t take her long to realize that he is putting on and gives him the okay to continue with the film. It is only minutes later that he’s sharing the good news with Yolanda. He also makes it a point to tell Luke (Tai Hara) that he and his wife will be down for breakfast later.
At nearly the same time, Ingrid speaks with Heidi about taking custody of Big Bear and leaving. This only leads to her discovering that Julian has animated Big Bear, ultimately leading to an argument. She’s right in the middle of accusing him of having a midlife crisis when Yolanda shows up at the door. Despite Yolanda being against the documentary, her disposition changes once Yolanda shows an interest in pursuing Ingrid’s role at work.
With the help of Bill Hogan (Roy Billing), Austin stages a faux guinea pig escape to convince Mel that he can stand on his own two feet while dealing with adversity. It doesn’t take her long to discover the direction and tell him that either she goes, or he doesn’t go.
Things don’t go much better for Julian when Yolanda learns that he and Austin have already met. This completely ruins the vision she had for the opening scene and a reenactment is out of the question. Ingrid’s announcement about their flight being propelled forward doesn’t help matters but leads to Yolanda suggesting taking Austin with them. Julia is beside himself and adds the idea of filming himself surprising Austin with a ticket. Ingrid can’t name one advantage to the plan but it’s decided when Julian rushes off to arrange for a taxi.
Austin goes to Eric (Richard Davies) for advice about leaving the country without alerting authorities. This leads to Eric sharing the story of his Uncle Barry’s disappearance. At nearly the same time, Julian introduces Mel to Yolanda. He doesn’t lie about her being a filmmaker but downplays the documentary. Even with the downplay, Mel is obviously uncomfortable with the idea and Julian’s plot twist about the surprise ticket doesn’t help. Just as Julian realizes he’s overstepped, Julian returns home. Julian, once again, downplays Yolanda’s presence before telling Austin about them leaving town. Although he doesn’t share the plane ticket, Julian does mention Austin visiting them.
The episode ends with Austin discovering the plane ticket Julian on the desk as the group says their goodbyes. More out of being put on the spot and Austin’s excitement, Mel agrees to visit.
Austin Review
I did enjoy the hysteria and scrambling caused by the trip being moved ahead, as well as Yolanda’s unexpected arrival. I, however, did not like the feministic touch that Yolanda’s character added. I was looking forward to the introduction of a new character but certainly didn’t expect or want it in this light. This show would be so much better if it didn’t have such a woke agenda. Nonetheless, the stage is set for what should be a very awkward episode 5. I’d give the episode a 5 out of 10.
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