Carrie Faces Long-Distance Frustration in And Just Like That Season 3, Episode 2

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Warning: This post contains spoilers for And Just Like That Season 3, Episode 2, “The Rat Race”.

At times, characters from the show “And Just Like That” believe they desire a particular outcome, yet they may misunderstand a situation or feel perplexed when things don’t go as planned. This theme is prominent in season 3’s episode, “The Rat Race,” where Carrie (Sarah Jessica Parker) grapples with her inability to connect with Aidan (John Corbett) in the way she once did. Despite his presence in the episode, there remains an emotional gap between them – a chasm that transcends mere physical distance.

Carrie & Aidan Could Be Headed For A Break (Or A Break-Up)

As a movie enthusiast, I’m totally hooked on the dynamic between Carrie and Aidan. It’s the perfect blend of a couple dealing with challenges that they must conquer, without veering into melodrama. Yet, it’s frustrating for Carrie, and honestly, I get her confusion – especially when she’s accustomed to a specific mode of communication. Long-distance relationships are notoriously tricky, and And Just Like That is tackling the nuances that make them so trying.

In most cases, I’d argue that Carrie and Aidan aren’t compatible – adding Logan Marshall-Green, the charming gardener, is bound to stir up complications in their relationship. However, given their extensive past, it seems unlikely they won’t end up together at this stage. Their storyline could unfold in two possible directions: either Carrie shares a kiss or engages in an intimate moment with the gardener, leading her to feel guilty and ultimately end things with Aidan, or Carrie develops feelings for the gardener and decides they need some time apart.

Regardless of what transpires, I’m confident their journey isn’t over yet; rather, it’s accumulating tension and anticipation towards something meaningful. So far in the series, I haven’t found myself deeply attached to Carrie’s love interests or relationships, except perhaps Aidan, as the show hasn’t delved too deep into them either. However, Carrie’s connection with Aidan could potentially reveal more about her character. Launching into something new, considering their past, is always a struggle. Yet, Carrie yearns for stability, despite her current circumstances not appearing promising in that aspect.

Seema & Miranda Have The Most Relatable Stories In “The Rat Race”

Regarding her past romantic encounters in New York City, Seema (Sarita Choudhury) has dated various types of men. Growing tired of this cycle, both she and her employer agree to hire a matchmaker, played by Cheri Oteri, to assist. However, the matchmaker advises Seema to alter her style and become less forthright in her opinions. This advice conflicts with Seema’s values, and at 55 years old, she prefers being single than compromising her identity. The series highlights the persisting issue that even modern-day matchmakers seem to advise women of all ages not to stay true to themselves lest they remain alone, a troubling narrative that has existed for centuries. In simpler terms, it’s a timeless story about how society often advises women to change who they are in order to find love.

Seema’s hardships are unfortunately genuine, unlike the original “Sex and the City,” they’re more straightforward. I genuinely empathized with her situation. She’s a self-assured woman seeking a relationship, and it’s vexing that her qualities, which should make her attractive, seem to make her unavailable instead. After the events involving Ravi in the season 3 opener, I can’t help but wonder what challenges await Seema next.

While Miranda (Cynthia Nixon) remains solo in the sea of singletons, she continues her tradition by becoming fixated on a reality TV show. This time, it’s the world of reality television that holds her captive, and she comes to understand the concept of “hate watching” – something many of us can identify with. Her fascination with this show leads her to bond with a waitress during a brunch outing with Carrie and Seema. However, much like Miranda, I too felt let down when it didn’t develop further. Recently, Miranda has been exploring what it means to be queer and single independently, and this journey has been quite relatable and refreshing.

Miranda seemed quite confused in her interactions with Che during the first season, but now she appears clearer and more revitalized in season 3. I’m still a bit resentful about how things unfolded with Steve in season 1, but at least she seems to be in a better place this time around. The show And Just Like That avoids delving into domestic issues, so I guess I’ll have to accept that we might not see Steve or Brady again this season. The awkwardness surrounding dating is actually refreshing.

Charlotte’s Storyline Was Much Better Here Than In The Season 3 Premiere

In this show, characters Charlotte (Kristin Davis) and Lisa (Nicole Ari Parker) portray wealthy mothers who go to extreme lengths trying to get their children into Ivy League schools. Though exaggerated, it was amusing watching their schemes unfold. However, things took a turn when the counselor (Kristen Schaal) made Lily (Cathy Ang) and Herbert (Elijah Jacob) feel small and insignificant. With college admissions more competitive than ever, one has to wonder if the stress and potential damage to a teenager’s self-confidence is worth it. Ultimately, Charlotte and Lisa come to realize that it isn’t.

For Charlotte, “The Rat Race” is a more profound narrative, fitting her nature perfectly. It’s understandable that she yearns for the best for her children, but it’s clear that she overreaches when pursuing something she desires. The truth, however, is far from this picture. I appreciate their friendship with Lisa, but I am eager for future episodes to depict all characters gathering for meals, as the continuous focus on paired character stories in And Just Like That risks becoming repetitive.

And Just Like That airs weekly on HBO Max at 9pm.

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2025-06-06 04:47