Recap of "What We Do in the Shadows": Enjoying Red Wine With Ice

Laszlo's insecurity about his hypnotic abilities is revealed in episode two.

Television has taught me a valuable lesson: when someone is hypercritical of another person, it's often because they feel threatened by them. This was evident when Roxxxy Andrews insulted Jinkx Monsoon by calling her a "comedy queen" on RuPaul's Drag Race. We see this theme once again in the episode "A Night Out With the Guys."

The episode begins with Laszlo metaphorically marking his territory by lifting his leg, claiming the vampires' next-door neighbor Sean as his own. Laszlo, with his vocal fry, proudly declares himself as one of the guys, using his "wit, wisdom, and charm" to interact with humans as a "psychological comedian" without relying on vampire hypnotism. He believes this makes him superior to Nandor, who often resorts to hypnosis to cover up his social blunders.

Laszlo's confidence is a facade, however, as it masks his insecurity about his own hypnotic abilities. This becomes evident when their night out at a Staten Island wine bar with Sean and "the boys" ends with all of them in a holding cell. Surprisingly, Nandor and Laszlo, who never drink wine, are outpartied by suburban wife guys. It's a comical twist that highlights the unpredictability of suburban partying.

Eventually, Laszlo admits his jealousy of Nandor's hypnotic abilities and asks for help. Nandor, in a clever move, convinces the NYPD that they are Captain "Sully" Sullenberger and "Thomas" Selleck from Blue Bloods. This showcases Laszlo's calm and confident demeanor in the face of mortal authorities. After all, why should a vampire fear a cop? Vampires possess super-speed, shape-shifting abilities, and mind-control powers that make them formidable opponents.

Interestingly, Laszlo also reveals his detective skills when he effortlessly extracts the truth from Guillermo. His assumption that Guillermo was upset due to diarrhea adds a humorous touch to the scene. The vampires' fascination with bodily functions, particularly poop, remains a curious aspect of their characterizations. Guillermo's secret is now in Laszlo's hands, and his fate hangs in the balance.

The main plot of the episode concludes satisfactorily, as Guillermo and Derek seek advice from the Baron and the Sire regarding Derek's half-vampiric dilemma. However, the subplot involving Nadja and the Guide feels unresolved. There are lingering questions about the hex and its origin, leaving viewers curious about the Guide's role in the situation.

The strained friendship between Nadja and the Guide is evident, with the latter feeling hurt and neglected. Nadja's sudden disinterest in her sidekick and failure to acknowledge the guidance provided by a picture frame add to the tension. The Guide's consolation lies in the fact that Nadja's behavior is not exclusive to their relationship; she treats everyone this way. Guillermo can attest to this.

Throughout the episode, there are various entertaining moments and references. The Quebec slander adds an amusing element, as French Canadians can be sensitive about their identity. The wine bar's name, Gare de l'Est Brasserie, is a clever nod to a train station in Paris. Matt Berry's portrayal of Laszlo shines, particularly with his delivery of lines such as "Much as it pains me to say THIS!" and "Lay off the breakfast burrit-ahs."

The joke about the Greeks appropriating Antipaxian cuisine adds a comedic touch, especially considering the use of the Greek alphabet as a substitute. Laszlo's comment about cheap crap and old fish resembling the view from his childhood home adds a personal touch. Colin's request for the "taki-taki without the yogurt" showcases his mischievous nature. The Sire building a cathedral out of Popsicle sticks is an adorable detail. Lastly, the visual effects team deserves applause for the impactful moment when Jonathan the vampire neighbor explodes like a blood-filled water balloon.

Overall, "A Night Out With the Guys" delivers a humorous and engaging episode, with multiple storylines intertwining to create an entertaining narrative. The characters' insecurities, dynamics, and unexpected twists keep viewers entertained and eager for more.