Take Three: House of Lies

House of Lies: Season 1, Episode 3 “Microphallus” (B+)

There’s no arguing that this show has found a good home on Showtime, in the comedy of other series willing to indulge in open conversation about sexual matters and other such scandalous topics like “Californication” and “Weeds.” The return of Greg Norbert from the pilot as the potential new owner of the firm makes things quite interesting, and Marty sure doesn’t back down, purposely antagonizing him after being threatened. The clients of the week were also an intriguing bunch, including Alan Dale in yet another position of great power. The truly fascinating folks, however, were the couple that invited Marty and Jeannie over, where Marty could have some far-out fun with the wife while Jeannie learned surprising things about her toes. I like that this show holds all of its characters equally accountable and open to mockery, with both parties agreeing never to discuss what transpired inside the house. Doug seems like the go-to punching bag, while Clyde, aside from his masterful storytelling last week, is more of a wingman. I’m enjoying the brief moments in which Marty’s son appears, in this installment to explain that he’s attracted to both a boy and a girl, deciding to invite both over rather than choose. The show has a dark side, though, which is equally compelling, as Marty wakes up from a nightmare on the anniversary of his mother’s death and then gets told by Skip that he might in fact be out because he’s not in this business to make friends. That final shot of him maniacally driving the valet car, frightening even Clyde, is haunting, and gives this show an unexpected edge in terms of its dramatic impact.