Original subtitles

[film reel ticking]

[train chugging]

Oops!

[humming]

Hello? Hello?

[humming]

[mellow music]

[sighs]

Hi.

Mm. How late can we go?

- I don't know. - Do we have to go?

- No. - Oh!

[laughing]

You're lying.

I am.

I am.

[music continues]

Monster bubbles!

I think he wants you.

[both laugh]

♪ I can sing so beautifully ♪

[chuckles] That's funny.

It's like she has a mustache right under her nose.

- She does? - Yeah.

It's just really big lips.

[clicks tongue]

[horn blaring]

[laughing]

[indistinct chatter]

- Greg. - Tom.

- I wanted to say congratulations. - Thank you.

- Yeah. - Only ten years of purgatory, right?

- Right. - My brother-in-law, Greg.

- Hi. - Hi. Nice to see you.

I think Jake's, like, twice the size he was at Christmas.

Oh, yeah. You know, we should really stop feeding him.

[laughs]

Come on. Enjoy yourself.

Corinne, my daughter, Alex.

- Hi, nice to meet you -- - Hi.

She worked with Paul Shuster

from the public defenders office.

You remember Paul?

And it turns out before that

she and your brother overlapped at Fordham

but they never met.

Oh. How funny.

You must be so proud.

I heard he's the youngest partner

in the firm's history.

Well, he's always been driven. What can I say?

And you're an attorney, as well?

Uh, no. I'm.. I mean, I was

but I stopped practicing when I had my son.

Thank God for the women's movement.

She'll go back, trust me.

- Oh. Is this you? - Oh, Jesus.

[laughing]

What? It's adorable.

Oh, she was so good.

Now, if she had stuck to it, can you imagine?

She's got the natural pose, the natural arch.

Look at that, slim legs. Everything she needed.

Gave up. What can you do?

You can't push, push, push. You gotta let go, right?

Right?

She's humble. Ha! Where'd she get that?

[laughs]

Thank you.

And where are you guys applying?

- Oh, boy. - What?

Well, we loved our local public school

but it just got rezoned.

- No! - It'll, it'll be fine.

The whole reason we moved, and now they won't let us send him.

I swear, if Pembroke hadn't discovered

that Kimmie had perfect pitch halfway through her interview

which, mind you, we didn't even know..

[laughs] I -- I mean, just forget it!

[indistinct chatter]

Dizzy!

- Dizzy. - Oh!

- Wait. Come back! - But I must go.

Please don't go.

That's when you say, "I don't even know your name."

But I do know your name.

That's not how it goes.

Well, maybe Mommy was improvising!

Maybe she was improvising!

[blows raspberry]

[mumbling]

[laughs]

My sister-in-law comes from serious money.

I swear, all she does is shop for the kid.

Meanwhile, I'm lucky if I can get Jake

out of his pajama bottoms half the time.

He likes to be comfortable.

Hell, I'd do the same thing

if I could get away with it.

You think the other parents would mind?

Their preschool director in a track suit?

You would look hot in a track suit.

You are such a liar.

[laughs]

But I, you know, is that even what I want for Jake?

A private school full of Kimmies?

Even if we could afford it, which we can't --

Honey, honey.

We're just talkin' options right now. Casting a wide net.

- Here you go, ladies. - Thank you.

- Unh-unh-unh! I got this. - No, no.

Okay? You just get me the essay by Thursday. No excuses.

Sandra?

- Mm-hmm. - Come on back.

[chuckles]

I should probably warn you, I'm not sure I buy it.

This.. I mean, it was, um, Ben's idea.

Ben's my husband.

For now.

[chuckles]

How long ago did he move out?

Six days ago.

Yeah, he found a temporary place.

He says he'll do marriage counseling.

But only if I..

...work on me first.

Suddenly, he's Dr. Phil.

[chuckles]

Can I ask, how's this work?

I just sit here and talk and..

It seems like it's important for you to have a plan.

[muffled screaming]

Is that what I have to look forward to?

[mellow music]

"A rich man's wife became sick.

"And when she felt that her end was drawing near

"she called her only daughter to her bedside and said

"'Dear child, remain good.'

"The girl went out to her mother's grave every day and wept.

"When winter came, the snow spread

"a white cloth over the grave.

"And when the spring sun had removed it again

"the man took himself another wife.

"Times soon grew very bad

"for the poor stepchild.

"'Why should that stupid goose sit in the parlor with us?' they said.

'Out with this kitchen maid!'"

[laptop keys clacking]

[door opens]

[door closes]

- Home again, home again. - There you are.

I stopped by Gristedes. God, what a zoo!

Oh, thanks. You -- you didn't have to go tonight.

- Oh, hello, hello, hello. - Hey.

[sighs] What is all this?

It's a draft for the parent essay.

For the private schools.

- Alex -- - I know, I know.

But I had lunch with Judy today

and she thinks we might have a shot at a scholarship.

Really?

- Here, here, you relax. - No, no, no, I've got this.

Well, you don't..

You don't think that's a waste of time?

I mean, you know

it's, it's a long shot obviously, but --

Right.

I went by the public school that we are zoned for now

and it's not great, honestly.

The classrooms are overcrowded.

I'm just worried he could get totally lost.

I -- I know we've always said we're not those parents.

- But I don't know, maybe? - Well, we can't afford to be.

- Greg. Greg! - Relax!

Anyway..

You know, she said we should at least try a few privates

along with the magnet programs, so..

I was hoping you could help me brainstorm.

- Tonight? - You're so much better at this.

- Well, I'm not better at this than you. - No, no, no, you are.

- Everything I write sounds so cloying. - Alex..

Is there a prompt?

Oh, you know.

"How is Jake more special than

all the other hundreds of thousands --"

Okay, okay. Is there an actual prompt?

Uh.. Let's see.

All right.

"Imagine someone were to see a roomful of children playing.

"Ignoring physical attributes

how would they identify your child?"

[gasps] You tell 'em about this?

- That is not funny! - No!

That's exactly the kind of thing

that sounds like parent bullshit.

But that is not bullshit! He was hours old!

Developmentally, babies don't typically

do that for days, at least.

- Yeah. - He was clearly advanced --

- Oh, be careful, be careful! - Oh, shit!

What is she doing on the toaster oven?

She's drying. Her head broke off.

I guess she fell, and he came out sobbing

with this decapitated Cinderella

like she'd been guillotined.

- So what, you superglued her? - Well..

You know, I kept insisting that she's fine.

I told him that was another necklace.

Oh.

- He buy that? - I think?

Mm-hmm.

[indistinct chatter]

I've always said

the more attention we pay now

the more we really listen

the more engaged and confident they'll be.

Not just in school, but their whole lives.

Which is why it is so important

to create a preschool atmosphere

where children are encouraged to be

their truest, most authentic selves.

At this age, that's really the most important thing.

Yeah, but they're just playing all day, right?

I mean, basically, what you've got here

is a, a well-funded playroom.

[chuckles] Well..

Uh, the truth is

uh, creativity and imagination are both foundational

for all types of higher learning.

A colleague of mine wrote a great book

on the subject, if you're interested.

It's very accessible.

[indistinct chatter]

- If it's crap, you can tell me. - Hush.

It's just so hard to pitch him --

Oh, trust me, I get it. I get it.

I am almost..

...done.

Okay.

- My God, your face! - What?

No -- no. M -- maybe this is not even worth it.

- Stop. It's terrific. - Really?

Yes.

There's only one thing --

No, of course. I mean, you must have notes.

You talk about his imagination, which is great

since that's really the best indicator.

Why not use that as a lead-in

to talk a little about his gender expansive play.

But anecdotes.

So you mean, like..

It could be anything, really.

I was in his classroom on Tuesday

and he, and Emily, and Michelle

were creating their own fairy tale

this enchanted forest.

And they'd made trees

out of chairs and pillows

and, and Jake..

Jake was this princess

who didn't know she was a princess.

And Emily was the witch who was keeping her locked up

and Michelle was somebody's helper or something, but..

Anyway, it was really Jake..

...who was the ringleader.

You -- you think talking about that would..

I -- I mean, I'm -- I'm sure you're right

I just wanna make sure that I understand.

Well, for one thing, someone's gonna read this

and then they're gonna meet Jake.

And it is always a good sign

when parents seem to really know their kids

which, of course, you do.

- Right. - But there's sort of a..

A big part of his personality that you don't even mention.

Right?

Here's the second thing.

The numbers are ridiculous.

Especially when it comes to which families

they're gonna help financially.

But what you have to remember is

everybody wants diversity.

Mm-hmm.

Let's be honest, Jake..

...he's, he's very special.

And believe me, this is the part of my job I hate the most

this, this strategizing.

But I really think that

this is a card you could play.

That's all.

Not to mention, you want him to be somewhere

he can thrive, right?

[kids squealing]

And the prince fell..

Standing on..

Look what I made. I made a base for it.

All right. So it's all about progression, right?

It's like you have to have the right story.

So this is my pulled-together

you-don't-have-to-worry- about-me

because-I'm-a-modern- independent-working-woman picture.

- Right? - Mm-hm, very slick.

- Yeah. - Thank you.

And then this one, which is loving-mommy..

Loving-mommy, yes-I-have-a-kid

and-if-that-freaks-you-out

well-too-bad-'cause-I'm-not- gonna-apologize-about-it..

You're sort of pimping him out.

- Stop! No, I'm not! - W -- wait.

Wait. Show him the message.

Sanjay, come on, baby. It's that time.

We're not done yet.

Right, okay.

"Wowza, Amal. You are truly an exotic beauty.

"And your English is so impressive.

"Maybe we could go for a ride sometime.

No magic carpet here, but I do have a Prius."

- What is wrong with people? - Right? I know.

And that's not even the half of it.

Come on, baby, I'm not..

Where did they..

- Oh, what in the world? I'm so sorry. - No, no, no.

- I got it. This is all Jake. - Are you sure?

- Yes. - Let me take that.

Thank you. Okay, bye.

Sanjay, come on! Mommy's had a long day.

- He can't, he can't leave. - I have to do this first.

You really don't think it's weird?

About Judy?

I don't know.

I mean, she was strategizing, right?

Yeah, no. The strategizing, I get.

But the way she was talking

it was just a little..

I don't know.

I mean, he does like to play dress-up.

That's not news.

Not that I care, obviously

but he's not exactly Johnny Basketball.

Johnny what?

You know.

That's not an expression.

I know it's not, I'm just saying.

What's your day like tomorrow? I have a break around noon.

I go into Legal Aid till 3:00, then pick up Jake.

[sighs]

- You okay? - Yeah. Yeah, of course.

[hammering]

[hammering continues]

Laurel! Laurel!

- Hi, Greg. - Hey, listen, um..

I've been meaning to mention

and maybe you've already noticed it

but the walls here are a little..

And I.. Most of my patients, they're pretty tame.

But you know, if you ever, if there's a noise issue, or..

Oh! You're so sweet! I haven't even noticed.

Oh, and I wouldn't want you to worry about that.

I know, in my own work

how important vocalizing can be.

I find it's so helpful in releasing

all kinds of emotional build-up.

I'm sure you're familiar with Arthur Janov?

It's scream therapy.

It's what?

It.. Janov.

He was big in the '60s, it was all about

finding your primal scream and releasing it into the world.

Jesus.

Yeah, and apparently this is, like, her niche, you know.

So, which means this is not going to stop.

- Hello? - Yeah, sorry. I just..

It's not his personality. I think that's what bugged me.

What?

About Judy, she, she was acting

like I'd failed to mention

some deep-seated part of him, and it's like..

Yeah, he likes fairy tales

but maybe that's not the most critical thing worth mentioning.

He knows all 50 states, he's already started reading.

How many kids his age are reading?

Hey, Ally, Ally, okay, I love you

but I think that you're fixating.

No, I'm not fixating! I just think he should get a clean slate.

I don't wanna send him off to kindergarten labeled as --

I don't think anyone's trying to label him.

You know, Ally, Judy loves Jake. Judy loves you.

She's on your side, all right?

She's not, you know, your mother.

Hey. Hey, I was kidding.

No, it's fine. Um..

Ally..

Look, I gotta go. Uh..

Uh -- uh, I love you.

[indistinct chatter]

[humming]

Nipples?

I wanna touch your nipple.

[chuckling]

[siren blaring]

[sighs]

What if we pitched it like..

...Jake is not limited

to trucks, or whatever.

Uh, he likes all sorts of toys and games.

Equal opportunity.

Yeah. "Our son, he walks into a Toys"R"Us

"and he does not discriminate

on the basis of perceived gender norms."

That's actually not that bad.

But that's just an idea. We don't have to..

Oh, my God.

Ally..

What's wrong?

Whoa, whoa.

You're not happy?

- No, no, of course, I'm happy. - Hey, hey.

I just don't.. I don't want to assume.

No. Of course not. And we won't.

But with Jake, everything was fine.

It's not a pattern.

No, it's just, I, I..

I -- I guess I didn't think it would happen so fast.

Well, I am sorry

that I'm so damn virile.

[chuckling]

I don't -- I don't know what else to say

besides that, though, I am sorry.

[bell ringing]

[all clamoring]

All right, slow down there.

Bye.. Thank you.

[instrumental music]

This is a very dressed-up dress.

We believe it's our job

to harness every student's unique potential.

Nurturing intellectual curiosity.

Critical thinking.

Problem-solving.

Artistic expression.

[oven bell dings]

Jake! Breakfast!

Socks make my feet sticky!

Hey, buddy. We're running late.

We do give priority to siblings.

My wife is on a ton of boards.

I don't know if that's helpful, or..

You know, it's impossible to predict

but on average, it's approximately 400.

Six hundred.

Nine hundred.

Thirty-six thousand children applied for a spot

in one of the city's magnet programs last year.

In a few weeks, we'll visit some new schools.

And you'll play with some kids and meet some teachers

and you should just be yourself.

And that's all that matters, okay?

So it's no big deal at all.

- Yeah. - No biggie.

You can have a fruit roll-up later, if you want.

- Yeah. - Except they're kinda sticky.

[music continues]

[cell phone ringing]

Hello?

Wheeler, yeah.

W-H-E-E-L-E-R.

And my son is Jake.

[sighs]

Preschools will receive feedback in December.

Of course, we wish we had room

for all your little angels.

But the numbers are what they are.

The numbers are what they are.

The numbers are what they are.

[sighs]

[keys clacking]

[instrumental music]

Ooh, look at that. What is that?

- Is that for us? - Yes!

No, I did that.

Uh, le -- let me try.

- That's what I clicked on. - No.

I think it's the one under there.

- I don't know. - I can't deal with this..

There.

Right?

[music continues]

I mean, it's insane!

Between the down-regs and the stims

trigger shots, blood samples

not to mention anesthetic for egg retrieval.

All in all, you're probably stabbed

about 75 times per cycle.

And most of the stabbing, you're doing to yourself.

I had this whole kit at the office.

They say if you're squeamish about needles

IVF will either cure you or break you.

I, actually..

[muffled screaming]

That doesn't bother you?

- You mean.. - The banshee next door.

[sighs]

What about Ben?

What about him?

Was he supportive?

Just.. In all this.

[sighs]

We've got a few minutes.

He'd call the office.

Constantly checking in.

You know, he'd e-mail me these fertility blogs.

What to eat, what not to eat.

That sounds like a lot of pressure.

You have kids?

Yeah. One.

It's like when guys say, "We're pregnant!"

You know?

Like, wow! Equality, great!

But actually you're not, so maybe you could just..

...fuck off a little bit?

Ally, come on, you're being ridiculous.

I'm fine. You've got clients.

So, what? So, I'll reschedule.

It's his first interview. This is important.

- He's gonna be nervous. - Exactly.

You know, I'm sorry, but what happens

if you puke on the train?

You think that's gonna put him in a good mood?

All right, th -- there's some apple slices

with peanut butter in the kitchen.

Make sure he eats on the way.

[Jake humming]

Yeah, but "The Little Mermaid's"

my favorite movie.

Mm-hmm.

- Here you go. - Thank you very much.

Hey, Jake, let's go over here.

First time?

Yeah.

At our last one, they left the door open

so I could peek in.

And I saw my son was drawing a picture

and I thought, "That's good, that's good," right?

So the teacher comes over and says, "Hey, what's that?"

And he said, "A gun."

[chuckles]

Well, he can't fix America, huh?

No, he can't.

Mr. Wheeler?

Can I have a word with you?

Alexandra, it's your mother.

I haven't heard from you in over a week.

Call me old-fashioned, but I don't think

a simple phone call is so much to ask.

An emoji does not count.

In any case, listen, I just talked to your brother

and Kimmie's got a piano recital on the 11th.

I don't know if you've heard her play recently

but she's really getting very good.

It's amazing, frankly, the discipline at her age.

I thought it might be nice for Jake to see.

It might inspire him. Who knows?

Oh, have you set a date for his birthday party yet?

I don't want a situation like last year.

It really broke my heart. So call me, I'm at the office.

Be here all day. Remember what that's like?

Of course, it's ridiculous.

- I'm not saying it's not. - I think "Abusive" was the word you used.

You said whoever had the bright idea to evaluate toddlers

using test scores deserves a special place in hell.

But he got a 96!

Ou -- out of 100?

Yeah, well, I mean, it's percentile

so you can't get higher than 99.

- What is all this? - Look, look. Okay, look.

- So they break it down. Right? - Mm-hmm.

There's verbal ability, spatial relations.

- Fine motor skills. - Fine motor skills?

Yeah, like how he holds a pencil.

And I was worried about that too

'cause he's left-handed, which, I mean, obviously

they can't discriminate, but his form --

- You are out of your mind. - Okay, okay, look.

Lo -- look at the narrative.

- "Jake was enthusiastic and curious.. - Enthusiastic.

"And proved remarkably focused on the task at hand.

"With a keen eye, he was able to group pictures

"based on common properties copying several rows of symbols

- to match a code." - What the fuck!

But it's like shapes and things, relax. Okay.

Wait, wait, wait, this is my favorite part.

"Using an unconventional

"but still effective left-handed grip.

A delight to work with."

What's wrong?

I -- I don't understand.

I guess Jake had made friends

with one of the girls in his group

and one of the boys overheard

what they were talking about.

And, uh, that boy

told some other boy

who told some other boy, who started teasing Jake.

- What were they saying? - I don't know.

But apparently before the teacher could intervene

things got physical.

They started shoving each other.

- I think Jake fell down. - Jesus.

Yeah, and then I guess Jake shoved

the other kid back, I..

And then I guess he started crying.

But -- but did you tell them he's not like that?

When has he ever shoved anyone?

They knew that he was being teased, okay?

The man was really nice about it. I..

I actually think he was a little embarrassed.

- Why? - Well..

He kept dancing around what had happened

talking about Jake's creative role-play

or whatever, and then suddenly, I realized

Oh, God, this guy

doesn't know how to tell me that my son was

uh, well, he was the Little Mermaid, it turns out.

Damn this thing.

Anyway, once it was over, the teacher

she sat both of them down.

They had a talk about respectful behavior.

And, uh, she encouraged Jake to use

his words if he was angry.

He couldn't talk.

- No, I guess not. - No, no, no.

I -- I mean, the Little Mermaid loses her voice.

She can't talk for, like, half the movie.

Y -- you never thought of that?

Well, are you mad at me?

Well..

Now they're gonna think he's got anger issues

or doesn't know how to communicate his feelings.

[sighs] I should have taken him.

- Well, thanks. - No, I -- I'm not saying it's your fault.

- 'Cause it's not. - Well, it's a red flag.

Okay? Uh, they're looking for anything.

[sighs]

Shit.

Now, somehow, I was a little more concerned about Jake

than how it might affect his chances.

- Excuse me? - I just..

Maybe we've got things a little backwards here.

Hey, hey, that is not fair.

Being concerned for his chances is being concerned for Jake.

Yeah, I realized that.

And frankly, if you're worried about him

being teased at Sibley Hall

maybe you ought to think about what it'd be like for him

some place where the teacher's got 40 kids

crammed into a class half the size.

You think this won't happen again?

Okay, fine.

So don't tell me I'm not concerned about Jake.

[footsteps approaching]

[door creaking]

[door closes]

[clanging]

[honking]

[sighs]

[siren blaring]

I mean.. Okay, I'm not a crazy mom, Alex.

I don't want to hoard him.

I want him to have his father in his life

but he needs routine right now.

- It's so important at this age. - Of course.

I mean, honestly, I shouldn't even complain.

It's..

It's a good thing that he wants to be involved. I just..

I honestly think sometimes it's the lawyers

that make it all impossible.

- No offense. - No, I'm sure you're right.

[laughs]

- You ladies need any help? - Yes, I do.

I was looking at the Power Rangers costumes

and I couldn't see anything in red.

My son's like... yay high.

We may be sold out of that color. I can check.

Oh, no, no, you see, it's..

It really has to be red.

- Okay. - Yeah, okay.

So, what does Jake wanna be? Hm?

Oh, you know Jake.

He has a different idea every other day.

I'll just grab a few options.

- Yeah, smart. - Miss?

Oh, my God, my hero! Yes! You found it!

Hey, Teresa, can you do a price check on baby Frankenstein kit. Thanks.

Maybe we should explain to him

why Rapunzel's not a good idea.

I just think..

What if someone says something? Or even a funny look?

I know.

It is our job to protect him.

Meredith?

You really don't have to stay.

[cell phone ringing]

[sighs]

There's a good chance he'll just forget.

Why? Why can't I be Rapunzel?

Did you see the pirate? It's awesome.

- It's got these tassels. - No! No!

Hey, buddy, come on. Mommy's trying really hard..

[doorbell buzzes]

Jake. You haven't even looked.

You promised me!

- Trick or treat! - Trick or treat.

I hate you!

Jake, I need you to calm down.

- Your ideas are lazy! - Just calm down for one second.

Happy Halloween.

I want! I want! I want! I want!

[muffled voice]

[static]

No.

He was Ben.

He just had the face of the man from the bodega.

Like the man from the bodega was playing Ben in my dream.

Okay.

And we get to the top of the mountain

and the snaps on my pack pop off

and all of my gear just falls off.

Just rolling down this ravine.

And I'm watching it go, and I know this is bad

but for some reason

I just start laughing.

So I guess I'm wondering, what does that mean?

- Well, that depends. - Yeah, I know.

I'm just wondering what you think it means.

I mean, just give me your two cents.

I mean, isn't that why we're here?

I think that's less important than your own --

Oh, my God. I'm sorry, are you always like this?

Or just here?

I'm sorry. I think we should end early today.

You're allowed to feel frustrated.

Yeah, I know I'm allowed.

With me, I mean.

[sighs]

What am I... like?

Switzerland.

That's what Ben and I... call you.

'Cause when I first started coming

he would always ask me whose side you were on.

I told him..

...you don't like taking sides.

[clamoring]

Whoa! Slow down, boys.

- Greg! Nice to see you. - Oh, hey. Hi.

I just.. I -- I got here early today

so I figured I would just

I don't know, check in and see

if there were any updates.

The truth is, I haven't talked to Bethany this week

but we spoke on Friday, and she said

that Jake had actually been a little better.

"Better?"

I -- I just meant the schools.

Oh.

Uh, wha -- what's up with Bethany?

No, there were, oh

one or two incidents in class.

I spoke with Alex about it briefly, over the phone.

She didn't tell me.

[chuckles] Oh, here, honey. Come on in.

It was nothing serious.

He's always liked doing things his own way, you know that.

Yes.

But lately, according to Bethany

he's been a little more..

...obsessive?

Refusing to leave the dress-up corner

when it's time to move on to something else.

He'll act out the, uh

what do you call it, the, the "Stroke Of Midnight"

over and over again.

- Right. Right. - "Bong, bong, bong."

Yeah, "Wait, come back.

I don't even know your name."

- Ha-ha. - Exactly.

Alex says he's been fine at home.

No, no, no, he's just, it's..

He's been a handful lately.

It's, it's normal stuff.

Alex thinks..

...that maybe we need to set, uh..

...better boundaries.

So that Jake can learn a little more self-control.

Do you agree?

It's just that I also know that she's not..

She's not totally herself right now.

And I don't blame her, you know

she's scheduling everything, the interviews, the tours.

For a while there, she was nauseous every other morning.

She's been sick?

Oh, shit.

[chuckling]

- Please don't tell anyone. - I won't, I won't.

Uh, we're not telling anyone till we're past 13 weeks.

You know, she told people sooner last time, and then when we lost --

I know how hard she took it.

I just know how much she respects you. She always has.

And I was thinking, if you do talk to her

that maybe... you could try

to reassure her that nothing's wrong.

Just that things are gonna be okay.

I'd like to show you something. If you have a minute?

He did these last Thursday.

I was going to show Alex, but as long as you're here..

Jake did these?

Mm-hmm.

They don't, they don't look like his.

I mean, I -- I get it. That's..

That's a lot of blood.

Well, the blood's one thing.

A lot of children are fascinated by it.

And justifiably so.

But sometimes artwork like this

can be an opportunity.

It can help us understand something a child

might be having difficulty communicating.

[sighs]

Do you ever see children, in your practice?

No. Couples occasionally, but mostly individuals. Why?

I guess it's beside the point.

I was, uh..

...just curious if Jake has

you know, ever expressed concern

to either of you about his gender.

No.

I mean, I don't think so.

I mean, there's a curiosity, maybe.

Um, he asked once, we were having dinner

and he asked why boys can't wear skirts.

You know, 'cause girls can wear pants.

What'd you tell him?

We told him the truth, I guess, which is..

...there is no good reason, really.

But then, I -- I mentioned that, um

in Scotland men wear kilts

which are kind of like skirts.

We Google-imaged kilts, looked at some pictures.

[chuckles] He wasn't very impressed.

So you didn't tell him

there are men who do wear dresses

in our culture?

You talk to Judy at all? Recently?

Week before last maybe. Why?

I was just wondering if we might

wanna bring Jake to see someone.

- A professional. - Why?

It's a lot of change, all at once. You know?

- He's visited a bunch of schools. - Right.

I mean, and if he's already having trouble regulating

his, you know, I mean..

[sighs]

Maybe it could be helpful.

You don't think that might make things worse?

How?

I don't know. He's only four.

We put him in therapy, and then there's a..

Suddenly, there's a stranger asking all these questions --

You know that's not how it works.

But what if he starts thinking there's something wrong with him?

That's not what I'm saying.

No, I know it's not. But, you know, it's..

I don't know, it's, it's the message he might get.

Kids are moody. He'll be fine.

[indistinct chatter]

Okay, I think it's time that we clean all this up

and get ready to go home.

Jake, I'd like you to come out and help us, please.

No.

I really, really, really

need your help to clean up

because we're getting ready to go home.

Jake, I'd like you to come out and help us clean this up.

Please?

[mellow music]

You need help in there?

Sandra. Hi, it's -- it's Greg Wheeler.

I -- I thought we were scheduled for 2 p.m. today.

Um, maybe you're on your way, or maybe something came up.

Anyway, uh, call me back so we can reschedule, if -- if we need to.

Here you go, bud.

[grunts]

- Working on your states again? - Yeah.

[doorbell buzzing]

Oh, I bet that's your grandma.

Oh, Catherine! You are a lifesaver!

I'm so sorry. We had a sitter lined up.

She's very reliable.

I have no idea what happened this time.

Well, I don't know why you would pay anyone.

I've told Alex a thousand times

I'm happy to have my time with him.

That's very sweet.

We just.. We know that you're busy and we..

- We wanted to -- - Hi, honey.

Oh, I ran into Simon Weingold.

He was asking after you.

Said they're missing you terribly.

Aww, that's nice of him.

And I said with Jake in school next year

you're gonna have a lot more time on your hands.

Uh, Jake?

- Come say hi to nana! - I still need Montana.

Honey, no time to curl your hair?

How often do you go out, for goodness sakes?

Well, wear it behind if you can't.. Yeah.

Oh, what have we got here?

Uh, that's from the dress-up corner at Jake's school.

- Let me see it. - His teacher let him take it.

Oh. Oh, no need to explain, I do read "The New York Times."

God forbid anything should be off-limits.

So, um --

Where is my favorite grandson?

His dinner's ready in the fridge.

Just zap it in the microwave, two, three minutes.

Set the timer and it goes automatically.

Remember, keep it behind.

Yeah, I have used a microwave before.

Oh, and the super's right downstairs.

If you -- you need anything, just knock.

He stays there, he's almost always home.

[laughing]

I did raise two of my own, you remember that, don't you?

- Very true. - Thank you.

Okay. Put a brush through your hair, honey, really.

- Thank you again. Love you. - All right.

- Thank you. - Bye-bye. Bye-bye.

Here I come! Ready or not!

Yeah, marketing's gotta be fascinating in that way.

Just the whole "Trying to get inside peoples' heads."

It must be such a creative challenge.

You know, it is not about being creative.

That's what people don't get.

- Well, I think you're creative. - Thank you.

But you gotta understand

people are up against so many goddamn options.

- You want some more? - For everything. Right?

I mean, you walk into a market, you see like

twenty different kinds of water, for Christ sake.

I mean..

So the best marketing strategy is not about being creative.

- I'm not gonna.. - No, no, no, no.

It's about being direct.

It's about being simple.

And ultimately, people..

And, look, I'll just say this.

I'm sorry.

Especially women..

...they wanna be told what to do.

[laughs]

No, we don't.

I call complete bullshit on that.

- It's not bullshit. - So much bullshit.

Can I get anyone another round?

Yeah, I'd love another drink.

Uh..

I'm sorry.

What is your favorite specialty cocktail?

Ah! Case in point.

No, that's not what I'm doing.

I'm asking her opinion.

I really like the elderflower saketini.

- I can't hear you. - Um, yeah, sure. I'll have one of those.

- Thank you. - What's going on?

I -- I'm so sorry.

He what?

- I'll be back. - Yeah. Okay.

Calm down. No, no, no, I understand.

What happened?

- He threw Cinderella at her. - What?

The figurine.

[chuckles]

[exhales]

Look.. Look, just -- just put him on the phone, okay?

I wanna talk to him.

Yeah, well, tell him if he doesn't stop now

we're canceling his birthday party.

- I'm -- I'm serious. - Whoa, whoa, whoa. Whoa.

Wait. Wait a minute. Let me talk to her.

Let me talk to her. Come here.

Hey. Hi, Cate. It's Greg.

I'm so sorry. Do you need us to come home?

- That's exactly what he wants! - What's that?

No, I know.

No, we'll leave the phone on so you co..

Right. Okay, well.. Bye.

I mean, he's not an idiot. He knows what he's doing.

Well, yeah. I mean, honestly, if you're upset about it

you might consider listening to me

and maybe we should bring him to see someone.

Okay. Can we not do this right now?

He just assaulted his grandmother.

Well, she's probably exaggerating.

Oh, and you threaten to cancel his birthday party

because she's probably exaggerating?

Greg, I was setting a boundary. That's allowed.

Yeah, it is, but don't flip it around and try to minimize it.

If he's acting out, he's acting out.

Greg, he's a kid.

God forbid, he should be a little more aggressive than you.

- I'm so sorry, guys. - Oh, of course.

- Is everything okay? - Oh, y -- you know.

He's just punishing us for having a night out.

You know, maybe I should go.

- Greg, we offered. - I know.

But I just think that if one of us was there --

We can't just upend our plans every time he's in a mood.

- Where's the lesson in that? - Fine. You're the boss.

Here you are, miss. The elderflower saketini.

Thank you. Perfect timing.

- Cheers to grown-up time. - Cheers.

[laughing]

[Darren clears throat]

So, Caitlyn Jenner.

- Is she a lesbian now or what? - What?

Well, okay, so I was listening to this interview

where, um, he, she, uh, yeah, Ms. Jenner, uh, she said that

she was still attracted to women.

And, you know, even though now she's a..

So I was just wondering, is she.. What is she now?

- Is she a lesbian or what? - I'm sorry.

- How did we get onto.. - I know.

It was just.. I have no idea.

It just, you know, he watches so much TV.

I was just reminded of it because when you were outside

we were talking about your son, and..

I, I was just explaining that..

I was just saying it's hard, you know?

Admissions time, kindergarten.

It's so hard for, for a child, you know, who..

- Who, who what? - Who just..

Who has a unique expression. Alex --

Listen, hey, you know, my brother, Mikey

when he was a kid, he was obsessed with that

uh, that, that game Pretty Pretty Princess.

And, you know, you cut to, uh, freshman year of college

and he's on the football team.

Two hundred pounds, six-foot-three.

So it just goes to show --

I'm not sure I follow.

I'm just saying that you, you may..

You, you probably don't need, need to worry.

- That's all. - No one's worried.

That's not what he meant.

Well, that's not exactly true.

I'm a little worried.

And so are his teachers --

All right, you know what?

Amal, let me ask you something.

You took Sanjay to see a therapist last year, right?

- Greg. - I'm sorry.

Is that a taboo subject? I just.. We're all friends here.

I think you've had a little too much to drink.

I just am curious about your experience as a parent.

And it's fine.

Well, with the divorce

we wanted to be safe.

- So I took him to a therapist. - Thank you.

Okay. Well, that was a very different situation.

How is that different?

Because with Sanjay there was an obvious problem.

- What do you mean by that? - No, not, not problem. I..

- Right. - No, no, no. I just meant..

You know, there was something external.

- Not just how he likes to play. - I think we should just..

I really think we should just drop this right now.

It's more than how he likes to play.

- What's that supposed to mean? - It means --

What? What were you gonna say?

- We can talk about it later. - No. What?

Let's have it. What were you gonna say?

We're all friends, right?

Fine.

Uh, I was giving Jake a bath the other night

and he tucked his penis between his legs, okay?

All boys do that.

Right?

- Well, not really. - Sure.

Oh, come on. You're saying Sanjay's never..

- No. - Okay.

You're saying he's done this before?

[chuckles]

Well, it's bath time.

What am I supposed to say, "No?"

Clearly, you're the one who had a problem with it.

I didn't say I had a problem with it.

I said that there are people who specialize

in exactly this type of behavior.

Frankly, I'm not sure what Jake needs right now

is one more adult in his life gossiping behind his back.

Oh, my --

Trying to come up with some sort of diagnosis.

No one was gossiping, Alex!

You need to really stop it. It's just..

Hey, can I interest anyone in some dessert?

We're good.

Just, just the check.

Okay. You can just take a seat back there.

- How much have I gained? - Three pounds since last time.

So a total of almost five.

I feel like with my son it was more.

Yeah, it varies.

But it's definitely within the normal range.

And your iron was a little low last time.

I'm taking the supplement he recommended.

[sniffles]

[Alex exhales]

[breathing heavily]

Take a deep breath.

[Alex inhales]

Okay.

[Alex breathing heavily]

[exhales]

Just breathe.

[exhales]

[Jake humming]

[all cheering]

[doorbell buzzing]

Hey! Hi, Kimmie.

Good Lord! That is almost as big as Jake!

Yeah. Well, I kept the receipt.

I know he's particular.

- You guys know Amal. - Nice to see you. How are you?

Oh, my goodness gracious.

- Hi, Mom. Hi. - Oh, hi, honey.

Don't you look nice.

- Who was, uh.. - Hi, Kimmie.

How are you doing?

Kimmie, we don't run inside!

[indistinct chatter]

Can I hold it?

- Everybody, it's for Jake. - Let me see it.

It's his present, his birthday. Thank you.

[indistinct chatter]

You need some help, sweetheart?

- No, I'm almost done. - Ah.

My daughter, the baker.

You know, I wish you wouldn't do that.

What?

Like all this is just a waste of time.

I wasn't..

I, I just meant you didn't learn that from me.

Stop it!

Hey! Stop it! Sanjay!

What is the matter with you, baby?

What happened?

Sanjay pushed Bobby.

He started it, because Bobby called Jake a flag.

- Oh. - Oh.

Flag?

- Jake, honey? - Hey, Mom. No, no, no, no.

I -- I got it. I got it.

Hey.

Hey, you okay?

It's almost time to make a wish.

Babe, come on.

Honey.

Honey, talk to me.

Please?

[mellow music]

[music continues]

[Laurel screaming]

You know, it's just..

- Excuse me one moment. - Sure.

Laurel, it's gotta stop.

I -- I know that you're with a client right now

and I really hate to interrupt, but this is --

I'm not with a client.

W -- what?

I said, I'm not with a client.

You seem angry.

Is there something you need to release?

[elevator bell dings]

[children clamoring]

We'll talk to you next week. Thank you so much.

- Hi. - Hi.

Right on time.

Got some good news for us?

Come on in.

[sighs]

Okay, but this is preliminary feedback, right?

They haven't made their decisions.

That's true.

So is there any chance one could still end up accepting him?

It's possible, but I have to be honest.

At this point, it's unlikely it would come with financial aid.

What about, uh, the magnets? Uh, BSI? PS 20?

We'll know more in a few weeks.

But his scores were so high.

They're very strong

but the cut-offs go up every year.

There's just too much demand.

So, you're saying he could be shut out everywhere?

I'm saying we need to be prepared.

You know what? This is a numbers game.

We knew this.

We went to public school.

- We turned out okay, right? - Mm-hmm.

Remember, he could also do another year with us.

Reapply next fall.

I know it's not ideal, but under the circumstances

I think it might be the best thing for him.

- What do you mean? - She's just --

I mean, if the gifted programs don't work --

No, but, but what circumstances?

Look, there is no question he's bright.

He's creative. That comes across in all of the feedback.

But several places also note that he gets stubborn

and defensive when dealing with other kids.

Frankly, you two are very lucky to be raising a kid like Jake

now instead of 50 years ago, even 20 years ago.

What exactly does that mean? "A kid like Jake?"

Okay, you know, I think we're getting off topic --

Alex, I'm very sorry that this isn't the news

we were hoping for, but you have to understand

the number of spots we're talking about --

Of course, and -- and -- and

I know how many kids you have to place.

Whoa. I'm not sure what you're implying here

but you know that I care very deeply about Jake.

Which is why I'm doing everything in my power

to place him somewhere where he feels safe

and comfortable enough to --

- To dress like a girl. - Okay.

I mean, that -- that's obviously what you're saying

and maybe the problem is that we all started pitching him as --

Alex, he had no idea what was in that essay.

It doesn't matter!

Obviously it's going to affect the way that people --

I'm talking about him feeling safe and respected.

Yes, but isn't there a danger of imposing --

Imposing what exactly?

[exhales]

No, not, not, not imposing.

That -- that was, that..

Greg.

Alex, do you think my sexual orientation

has anything to do with my advice regarding your son?

- What? - Judy, of course not.

Because every time I try to bring up my concerns

you respond like I'm pushing some political agenda.

And let me tell you

the impulse to embrace children as they are is not an agenda.

No, I -- I never --

And like it or not, you two have some choices to make here.

There's a problem.

If you don't believe me, just read the feedback yourself.

He's acting out. Verbally. Physically.

Yes, and, maybe..

Maybe he's sick of us

of us pushing him into this, this role.

Alex, you can't expect him to never realize he's different.

No, but I can wait until he tells me himself --

But it sounds like he's trying

but you're just determined to ignore it.

- I am not ignoring it! - Okay.

- Jesus! - Okay. Okay.

Maybe if you'd ever had your own kids..

You know what?

We're done. Okay?

[groans]

[machine beeping]

And I'll come grab him.

Um, I guess I'll just.. I'll text you when we're..

No, no, everything's fine. He's..

Um, it's, it'll be fine.

Yeah. Okay. Thank you.

Bye.

[machine beeping]

[door opens]

You should lie down.

[water gushing]

Here.

Come on.

[sniffles]

I think you should leave.

I'm not going anywhere.

We don't have to talk

but I'm not leaving you alone right now.

I don't think I can not talk.

[sniffles]

If you're here, I, I don't think I can..

...not say something.

Something mean.

I'm very angry.

I understand.

I'm angry at you, Greg.

You should have said something.

To Judy. She was out of line.

And -- and -- and you just sat there.

We're not gonna have this conversation right now.

Yes, please tell me what conversations --

Alex, if you need to be mad at me, that's fine

but I am not going to fight. That's --

You should have said something.

[exhales]

Well, frankly, I could barely get a word in.

I was trying to keep things from escalating.

Right. Right. God forbid anyone gets angry.

God forbid you ever piss someone off.

All right, this is ridiculous. You're in shock.

- And we're both grieving. - Oh, thank you. I'd forgotten.

You know, trying to make me feel as much pain as you do --

That is not what I'm doing.

Of course it is, maybe not consciously.

- But that's definitely -- - Oh, my God!

Things I could do without.

Number one, the fucking unconscious.

Please, please, spare me that.

Fine. Let's blame Freud, right?

It's Freud's fault you miscarried.

Oh, I miscarried?

No, that is not what I..

You think if I'd just taken better care of myself?

Would you please --

If -- if -- if -- if, if I hadn't overburdened myself

Stop. Stop. Stop.

with Jake's applications?

If -- if -- if I had let you call an ambulance

Ally, for God sake.

Instead of taking a cab

maybe we would have gotten there sooner?

Yeah, well, now we'll never know, will we?

Ally, I'm sorry.

- You're an asshole. - Jesus.

This is hard for me too.

Is that impossible for you to understand.

I needed help, Greg

and you just sat there.

Like, like you were embarrassed.

- Do you have any idea -- - Okay, I'm not gonna do this.

What.. Where're you going? Greg!

Greg, you can't just walk away in the middle --

In the middle of what? An argument?

This is not an argument. This is you shitting on me.

So I'm gonna go pick up Jake

and I'm gonna take him out, and when I get back

I hope that you're in bed

'cause frankly, he doesn't need to see you like this.

Fine. Fine.

[scoffs]

Yeah, go take him out for ice cream.

And when you're done, why don't you both

get your nails done, huh?

I mean, why not?

It's not like you've ever taken him to a park

or thrown a ball in his direction.

That's a disgusting thing to say.

You think it's my fault he likes dresses?

No, you think I'm too effete a role model?

- Who the fuck are you? - Greg, that's, that's not --

Did you listen to the feedback?

"Stubborn? Defensive?"

Did that not remind you of anyone?

Not to mention you're the one reading him

fairy tales every night, you're the one buying him

every Disney princess DVD you can get your hands on

and then, freaking out when people start to notice.

I mean, is it any wonder he's confused?

You know, maybe the reason I didn't say anything to Judy

is because I agree with her.

And I think we need to make some choices

about how to address the situation.

Fine. You know, bring, bring him to a shrink.

What do I know, right?

I'm just the one at home with him.

- All day, every day. What? - Oh, for God's sake!

You get to have a life outside this apartment. I gave that up.

Do you wanna go back to work? Do it!

- No one's stopping you. - No. No.

I made a choice to be here

because I wanted him to have a mother who's devoted --

And because you hated being a lawyer!

Christ! Don't pretend like you weren't desperate to get out.

This is what you wanted.

So, I'm sorry if motherhood turns out to be

just another disappointment, but I am his father.

I live here too, and I'm sick of being treated

like you're raising him alone.

Jake is not a disappointment.

I said motherhood, not Jake.

[sobbing]

This is so..

I'm s -- sorry, okay?

I'm sorry for making you so unhappy.

I'm -- I'm sorry for taking you for granted.

I'm -- I'm sorry for all the ways

I've fucked things up with Jake.

- Ally. - I am. I am.

- I'm sorry about the baby. - No.

For whatever I did wrong.

I am not asking you to apologize.

Just please, please, let's just stop.

[breathing heavily]

[cell phone buzzing]

It's Judy.

She called before at the hospital.

Just wanted to make sure everything was okay.

Well, it's not.

[instrumental music]

[elevator dings]

[music continues]

What do you think is holding you back?

I mean, like I said it's stupid. It's just a signature.

It's not like it changes anything.

I mean, his stuff's already gone.

The financials are straightforward.

There's no custody battle.

[scoffs]

Silver linings, right?

You know..

...you never really talked about that.

What?

Well..

...kids.

There's not much to talk about.

[scoffs]

We talked about IVF..

...and how hard that was, on both of you.

But I don't think you ever mentioned the decision to stop.

Does that matter?

At this point?

I think it might.

Just, just my two cents.

Well, it was always part of the plan, I guess.

And when it didn't happen right away..

...we both kept assuming with all the options..

...the next one.

This'll be the one.

Then the one after that..

...and the one after that and then, at a certain point..

...I think we both just realized..

We were eating take-out one night

and he looked at me

and said..

"...We're done, aren't we?"

[scoffs]

I guess we were.

And how did you feel?

Honestly?

I felt relieved.

I knew how much Ben wanted it.

I knew it was what I should want.

But..

I don't know.

I thought..

[exhales]

Ah, thank God.

You didn't think you could tell him?

I think he knew.

[sighs]

It's so quiet in here.

Uh, Dr. Hendricks decided to relocate.

[sniffles]

[sighs] I miss the banshee.

[doorbell rings]

[sighs]

Okay.

- Here you go. - Thank you.

Judy, I..

It's really good to see you.

You -- you try..

You try so hard to protect them, but..

It's never gonna be easy to really see people.

Especially the ones we love.

[door opens]

- Hon? - In here.

- Alex. Hi. - Hey, Lynn.

[both chuckle]

Hey.

- I am gonna go get changed. - Okay.

She hates my guts, doesn't she?

She'll get over it.

[both laughing]

[instrumental music]

Ah! What's the matter with you? This is a child.

Get off that bike.

You're not in control!

If I ever see you on a bike without a helmet

it will not be a pretty picture, okay?

[indistinct chatter on TV]

Can't sleep?

I've noticed some things about this movie.

Things that don't make sense.

Because the idea is that

Cinderella is this abused servant girl, right?

But she's got an entourage of animals

waiting on her hand and foot and..

They bathe her, they dress her.

Honestly, she's not doing too bad.

It's a good school.

I think he'll be happy.

[exhales]

You know, when he was a baby

I was so convinced he knew things.

I would look at him and wish so badly he could talk

'cause I was sure he wanted to tell me.

[sighs]

He's got time.

Maybe he'll come around.

[sighs]

Come to bed?

[exhales]

[door opens]

[indistinct]

[door opens]

Mr. and Mrs. Wheeler?

Come on in.

Do you know what I've been meaning to ask you about?

Which one is Aurora again?

- Aurora? - Yeah.

That's who you dressed up as, isn't it?

- Aurora's Sleeping Beauty. - That's right.

Oh, yes, and they have

those three little fairies that travel --

And they take her to a cottage

and then she doesn't know she's a princess.

- Mm-hmm. - And then they have pumpkins they're like..

Yeah. That makes sense.

[indistinct]

I'd like to run, I'd like to run some more.

Ready, ready? One, two, three. Whee!

One, two, three. Whee!

[instrumental music]

♪ You are the sun to the Earth ♪

♪ You are the light of this world ♪

♪ Won't you see?

♪ Why won't you see?

♪ You are an arm I can't reach ♪

♪ You are the words I can't speak ♪

♪ Won't you say?

♪ Why won't you say?

♪ I will walk till I've no shadow ♪

♪ I will walk till I've no shadow ♪

♪ You twist the light in your hands ♪

♪ Losing thoughts so you move you can't give ♪

♪ Reasons fall from every storm that you lived ♪

♪ We move through the dark

♪ Helpless

♪ You are the quiet in my soul ♪

♪ You are the pieces of gold

♪ Won't you shine?

♪ Why won't you shine?

♪ I will walk till I've no shadow ♪

♪ I will walk till I've no shadow ♪

♪ I will walk till I've no shadow ♪

♪ You twist the light in your hands ♪

♪ Losing thoughts so you move you can't give ♪

♪ Reasons fall from every storm that you lived ♪

♪ We move through the dark

♪ Helpless

♪ You are the quiet in my soul ♪

♪ You are the pieces of gold

♪ Won't you shine?

♪ Why won't you shine?

♪ I will walk till I've no shadow ♪

♪ I will walk till I've no shadow ♪

♪ I will walk till I've no shadow ♪

[instrumental music]

♪ Ooh ooh

♪ Ooh ohh

♪ Ooh ooh ooh ooh

♪ Ooh ooh ooh ooh

♪ Ooh ooh ooh ooh

♪ Ooh ooh ooh ♪