Exploring the Latest Episode of Poker Face: A Deep Dive into “Hometown Hero”

Sometimes I wonder if the Poker Face casting department is a little too good at their job. For instance, while I’m a fan of Sherry Cola, did the show really need a comic actor with her extensive skills for just a few lines in this season’s "Last Looks"? Similarly, in this week’s episode, "Hometown Hero," Ego Ngwodim is largely underutilized as a minor league baseball radio broadcaster hooked on canned cheese. Gil Birmingham, playing the team’s manager Skip Dooley, also fades into the background, leaving me to question if these talented actors deserve more than what they’re given.

Despite this casting conundrum, it’s important to note that my only complaint about the episode revolves around this aspect. The writing, courtesy of Tony Tost, is whip-smart, while direction by indie-thriller maestro John Dahl adds an edge to the unfolding drama. Much of the episode’s tightness can be credited to its brilliant casting choices, particularly Simon Rex, who portrays the episode’s central character, "Rocket" Russ Waddell.

Simon Rex as “Rocket” Russ Waddell

Rex is unforgettable as Rocket, a former fireball-throwing pitcher attempting to revive his career with the hapless Montgomery Cheesemongers. If you’re wondering why he looks familiar, it’s likely because he starred as the fast-talking, oddly charming sleazebag in Red Rocket, one of my favorite films from 2021. His authenticity adds a unique layer to Rocket, making his every action feel genuine. He possesses an energy reminiscent of actual MLB players, almost recalling Charlie Morton in his on-field demeanor.

Rocket’s storyline unfolds against the backdrop of Velvety Canned Cheese Park, a minor league stadium built decades ago by Hiram Lubinski, the inventor of the Velvety Canned Cheese Substitute Spread. The park is run by Lubinski’s granddaughter, Lucille, brought to life by the delightful Carol Kane. While Rex shines in his role, Kane also leaves a mark, but ultimately, the surrounding actors often feel like they could contribute much more.

The Murder Plot Takes Shape

As the episode progresses, the murder plot develops seamlessly. Following a particularly woeful performance, Rocket learns his time with the Cheesemongers is running out. Hearing that fans are profiting from betting against the team, which is on the verge of setting a record for consecutive losses, Rocket devises a scheme that could net him and his teammates over $3 million, provided they continue to lose.

However, as with any carefully laid plan, things don’t go smoothly. The major league club promotes a promising pitcher named Felix Domingo, played by Brandon Perea. In a bid to assure a loss for the Cheesemongers, Rocket and the gamblers plot to drug Felix’s bubblegum, but that backfires spectacularly. Instead, they inadvertently enhance Felix’s performance, leading to a chaotic series of events on the field.

The Dark Turn: A Fatal Fastball

In a shocking turn of events, Felix confronts Rocket about the scheme, demanding the money after realizing that he’s in on the fix. Rocket, in a fit of rage, retaliates by tossing a 101 mph fastball at Felix’s head, killing him on the spot. The aftermath sees Rocket ingeniously covering up his crime, staging the scene to look like an accident involving the team’s unreliable pitching machine, nicknamed “Rambo.”

This swift escalation from misfortune to murder showcases the episode’s dark humor, layered writing, and Rex’s ability to seamlessly shift between charming and menacing.

Charlie’s Journey to Purpose

Meanwhile, we follow Charlie, who is still searching for a sense of belonging. After binge-watching The Office and landing a mundane job that fails to offer human connection, she serendipitously finds herself at the Cheesemongers as a ball girl. This transition feels less forced compared to previous episodes, thanks to narrative underpinning and character development.

Her new role provides Charlie with a sense of community and, importantly, a chance at growth. As she juggle the eccentricities of her workplace and witnesses the fallout from Felix’s death, she begins to suspect something sinister and resolves to uncover the truth.

A Hallucinogenic Interlude

One of the episode’s standout moments is the hallucination scene featuring Charlie after she inadvertently ingests the same drugs affecting Felix. This sequence strikes a balance between absurdist humor and poignant reflection, allowing Charlie to engage in a meaningful conversation with the spirit of Hiram Lubinski, played by B.J. Novak. This unexpected twist enriches the narrative, exploring themes of legacy and community while providing a much-needed comedic respite.

Unraveling the Mystery

As the episode nears its climax, Charlie’s investigative instincts kick in. She pores over police reports and becomes increasingly suspicious of Rocket after noticing the signs of his deceit. What escalates the tension is a well-constructed baiting strategy in which Charlie lures Rocket into revealing his guilt.

This tension bolstered by the forthcoming investigation echoes the series’ homage to classic detective shows. Instead of long-winded resolutions, Poker Face mirrors Columbo’s approach, allowing the narrative to end with a cliffhanger rather than an exhaustive wrap-up.

Stray Observations

• Minor League Teams: The episode humorously references various other teams in the same league as the Cheesemongers, including the Augusta Duffers and Houston Sombreros, adding a whimsical touch.

• Character Quirks: At the outset, we find Charlie attempting to fix a broken printer while reading Borges, showcasing her sense of curiosity amid frustration.

• Underutilized Talent: Ngwodim delivers a humorous line about the effects of overdosing on canned cheese, proving even smaller roles can bring levity.

• Soundtrack: The episode’s rock-infused soundtrack features classics such as “Glory Days” and “Boulevard,” enveloping the viewer in nostalgic vibes.

Through captivating performances and a compelling narrative, “Hometown Hero” encapsulates the essence of Poker Face—a blend of dark humor and intricate storytelling that keeps viewers engaged from start to finish.