Danny Pudi gets to show off his directing chops on Mythic Quest 3×05 “Playpen.” This episode is further proof that these characters need to continue to be paired off, or seen in small groups for maximum effect. The MQ NFTs aren’t going anywhere soon, and that could be a problem in literally any other series. Now that we’re at the halfway point of the season, it’s clear that Mythic Quest has set these characters up for the success they deserve.
Trouble in MQ Movie Paradise:
The MQ movie just gets more chaotic as it comes closer to being a reality. David (David Hornsby) has been bitten by the Hollywood bug, and it’s a terrible look on him. He’s so hilariously out of his depth in making this movie a reality. The only thing that can bring him back down to Earth is Jo (Jessie Ennis), who has an actual vision. It may be a vision of world domination, but it’s still a vision.
This storyline is also a venue for Ian (Rob McElhenney) to explore what leaving MQ has actually meant to him. Ian has waxed poetic about his legacy before. The possibility of an MQ movie is giving Ian a chance to do some authentic self-examination, something this character so desperately needs. It’s a nice twist, having Ian go from being on top of the world with everyone following his orders, to seeing him on the outside looking in. It’s a much-needed change in perspective.
Carol the NFT Queen
Let’s keep it straight, Carol (Naomi Ekperigin) deserves all of the promotions. To be clear, I’m talking about actual promotions that recognize what this character brings to the company, none of this in-name-only garbage that doesn’t even come with a raise. It’s been clear for a long time that Carol really should be running this show. It’s a good thing the Montreal office is finally realizing what a gem they have in Carol.
The great thing about Carol’s promotion in Mythic Quest 3×05 “Playpen” is that we know she’s going to take the best of MQ with her to these new heights. She has never had time for nonsense. Now, she’ll hopefully have to put up with less. Carol is an unstoppable force. If everyone just stays out of her way, there’s no telling just how much she’s capable of.
Brad, The Reformed
Color this writer surprised that Brad (Danny Pudi) comes in with a surprisingly emotionally deep performance in Mythic Quest 3×05 “Playpen.” There’s no question of Danny Pudi’s talent. However, Pudi takes this character to new places, and it works incredibly well. Of course, this could all be a bait-and-switch, designed to lull us all into a false sense of security.
However, Brad’s growth just in these last five episodes has been astronomical. A true evil genius recognizes talent, and Rachel (Ashly Burch) is the real genius that’s always overlooked. Perhaps this can be a beautiful partnership, with Brad reaching Rachel all of his evil ways, and having Rachel use them for good. It would be a full-circle moment for these characters that, if done right, could be so fun and satisfying to watch.
Our Girl Poppy
As per usual, the star of the MQ multiverse is Poppy (Charlotte Nicdao). It’s been said before, but it’s worth repeating, that Poppy’s quest for validation outside of her friend is such a heartwarming and inspiring one. Here, we get to see her relationship with Dana (Imani Hakim). Their relationship is even more special when you consider that Poppy doesn’t need to demand respect.
Watching Poppy re-discover the fun of gaming is a poignant journey that this character needs to go on. This is about more than finding joy in a job. Poppy’s quest this episode is about finding purpose and meaning in anything you’re doing, job or no job. It’s a pointed and timely reminder. The fact that Poppy can now see her vision clearly puts her in a perfect position to achieve new heights.
At the halfway point of Mythic Quest, the stories are just getting smarter, and the characters more endearing. Fans may not be sold on the MQ movie, nor on the NFTs. It can’t be denied, however, that these are venues to unleash even more chaotic energy into the MQ-Universe. Whatever comes next, this is a team made up of the best of the best. They can handle anything.
Mythic Quest streams Fridays on Apple TV+.
