What I’m Watching: Orange is the New Black

Orange is the New Black: Season 5, Episode 4 “Litchfield’s Got Talent” (B+)

It’s been fascinating watching how different people try to use their power when they’re in charge. What seemed like equally irritating and harmless pantsing led to the gun falling off of Gloria’s waist, which was probably the safest place for it to be, and ending up in the hands of someone with far less noble aims. Having the guards be the contestants in a talent show was an entertaining diversion that didn’t turn out all that bad for all those involved, and the striptease, which went way farther than just a tease, was certainly the most memorable of all the acts. That the demands only reached a governor who was very drunk and high isn’t an affirming development, and I’m not sure what comes next for the inmates. I’d assume that the camera that took photos of Judy and the others on the roof belonged to paparazzi, and that’s not going to bode well for anyone. Judy’s luck has turned very sour, with both former friends and skinheads united against her and ready to take out their aggression towards the “man” on one rich woman. I like that a very sleep-deprived Red was thinking about getting senior discounts and learning how to paddleboard, and it’s also interesting to see life on the outside with those not keen on participating in the riot inside, with Alex emerging as an unwilling leader. Brief flashbacks to Alison’s life before she was in prison were intriguing, but I would have liked to see a bit more of what got her to where she is.