This Is Us (4×11) A Hell of a Week: Part One Review

For our review of the last episode of This Is Us, click here.

Synopsis: Randall grapples with anxiety. (IMDb)

This Is Us is one of the few series that doesn’t shy away from incorporating mental health into their storylines. In fact, one of the most memorable scenes from the series thus far is when Randall has an anxiety attack and Kevin helps him through it.

It was such a tough scene to watch, but one that we will never forget. This is why This Is Us is such a phenomenal show, they bring the feels into everything they do. And they aren’t afraid to tell how it is.

After walking in on a home invader who he managed to scare away, Randall’s anxiety comes back full force in this week’s episode. It is obvious that it’s been building up especially since finding out that Rebecca is experiencing cognitive impairment, and it’s going to get worse. Not to mention, he’s hiding it from Kevin and Kate. It was only a matter of time before things came to a head.

Most of the episode is centered on Randall’s increasing anxiety with the whole situation, and it’s obvious things are getting worse and worse. The constant flashbacks to him as a young boy and a college kid solidify the fact that he’s been struggling with anxiety his entire life. And throughout his entire life, he’s always suppressed it or ignored it because he had to be the stronger one.

It’s caught up with him as an adult, and after realizing the burglar had not only come into the house but went into his and Beth’s room upstairs, Randall finds himself absolutely frazzled.

It’s worth commending that throughout the episode, This Is Us had placed people in Randall’s life that encouraged him to take some action. Mainly, Beth seemed to be his rock during college and continued to be in the present. She even saw the signs of Randall’s patience wearing thing and attempted to do something about it. Not to mention, Darnell even stopped by to suggest Randall try therapy.

It wasn’t until Randall saw a man trying to rob a woman that things got out of hand. Not only did Randall beat the crap out of the guy, but he realized he was harboring a lot of fear from the break-in.

And as we saw back in season 1, Randall chose to rely on Kevin to talk him through it as he completely broke down. Side note: Was that Sophie in Kevin’s bed?!

Once again, Brown wowed us with his performance during this episode. How incredible was he?! Especially the dream sequences which felt so real and frightening. I’m always in awe of his talent, and this reviewer can’t wait to see where Randall’s story takes us in the back half of season 4.

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