Hung Season One Finale: A Critical Look

The first season of HBO’s Hung explored the economic struggles of the late 2000s through the lens of a high school teacher turned male prostitute. The finale, “A Dick and a Dream or Fight the Honey,” brought these struggles to a climax, forcing characters to confront their identities and make difficult choices. The episode expertly wove together each character’s storyline, highlighting moments where their attempts at reinvention clashed with reality.

The finale showcased the pervasive desperation and need for survival that defined the characters’ lives. Ray, the protagonist, faced potential job loss alongside 70% of his colleagues, a stark reminder of the economic downturn. This precarious situation underscored the show’s central theme: in times of crisis, even ludicrous choices become understandable. Ray’s continued foray into prostitution reflected this desperation, a gamble taken to stay afloat.

A poignant moment involved Ray’s son, Damon. In a conversation with his sister, Damon sought comfort after an altercation with a romantic interest. He feigned ignorance about his actions, highlighting a desperate need for affection and a desire to manipulate the situation. This scene exemplified the “fight or flight” response permeating the episode. Characters constantly chose between confronting problems or seeking refuge in manipulation and avoidance.

Tonya, Ray’s business partner, embodied this internal struggle. Faced with the threat of Lenore, a potential rival, Tonya’s anxieties amplified. A fly infestation in her apartment symbolized her fears of losing Ray and her livelihood. While Tonya’s anxieties often seemed irrational, the episode subtly acknowledged their validity. Lenore’s pursuit of Ray forced Tonya to confront her insecurities and fight for her place in the business. The final scene, with Tonya crushing a fly and holding “Women Who Run with the Wolves,” symbolized her newfound resolve.

The episode subverted expectations in the anticipated encounter between Lenore and Jessica, Ray’s ex-wife. Instead of a scandalous reveal, the show opted for nuance. The phone conversation between Ray and Jessica, as she unknowingly stood on the precipice of becoming his client, became a moment of self-reflection for both. Ray justified his actions while subtly manipulating Jessica, while she grappled with her dissatisfaction and desire to salvage her marriage. Keeping Jessica unaware of Ray’s identity allowed for a mature moment of understanding and avoided melodrama.

This scene highlighted the show’s ability to explore complex emotions without sensationalism. It underscored the desperation driving both characters and reinforced the show’s theme of survival.

The finale left intriguing threads dangling. Ray’s encounter with his neighbor, involving honey, hinted at future complications and comedic possibilities. Jessica’s husband’s flirtation with another woman suggested marital discord. These unresolved elements, combined with the new alliance between Lenore, Tonya, and Ray, set the stage for season two. The ending, while seemingly offering resolution, underscored the fragility of the characters’ arrangements and their ongoing struggle for survival. The first season established a strong foundation of dark humor, social commentary, and compelling characters, leaving viewers eager for more.