In episode 8 of the binge-worthy series, Survival of the Thickest, we recommence our captivating narrative from where we left off. The central plot revolves around Jacque and his poignant visit to Mavis. Aware that their time together is finite, he expresses his wish to take their relationship to the next level. This level is matrimony, a proposition that Mavis, after some contemplation, warmly accepts.
See Also: Survival of the Thickest - S1, Episode 7 Recap
The backdrop then shifts to the vibrant premises of CC Bloom’s. There, Mavis and her confidante Peppermint are ambitiously planning to orchestrate a prom night, unlike any other. They envision this event as a rebellious departure from traditional norms, notably, by not enforcing a gender-specific dress code. Their progressive outlook breathes fresh air into the conventional prom culture.
Parallel to these plans, the storm brewing in Mavis' professional life finds a momentary calm. Natasha makes a re-entry and extends an olive branch to Mavis. This professional reconciliation helps Mavis to propel her career forward. Still, on the other side of the spectrum, her personal life is far from achieving equilibrium. The phantom of Luca constantly haunts her thoughts. It is more so during her intimate moments with Jacque. This leads to an emotional quagmire.
This complex web of relationships entangles further when Luca, out of the blue, calls Mavis. Unfortunately, this exchange doesn't remain a secret from Jacque. Mavis can't help but squirm uncomfortably when she discovers that Jacque is cognizant of Luca's presence in her life. It dawns on her that no amount of mending her relationship with Jacque would change her heart's true desires. She realizes this while wrestling with a decision of whether to repair or upgrade an item at a store.
With a heavy heart, Mavis takes the tough step of confronting Jacque, revealing the unsettling truth that their paths may not be destined to merge. Jacque, understandably crushed by this revelation, resolves to make his exit. Mavis, however, refuses to let her personal turmoil overshadow her professional life. She resumes her creative role as a drag queen stylist and pulls off a spectacular prom celebration at the drag club.
Amidst this maelstrom, she finds an unwavering supporter in Natasha, whose belief in Mavis is unwavering. Mavis, however, soon realizes that despite everything falling into place, there is still one piece of the puzzle missing.
In a pivotal moment, Mavis reaches out to Luca. Despite his initial negative reaction to her decision to marry Jacque, she emphasizes that what truly matters now is Luca's understanding of her complicated situation. She bares her heart to him, admitting her sincere feelings and her yearning to explore a relationship with him.
Luca, now gaining a glimpse into her perspective, requests some time to ponder. In a dramatic twist, Mavis later decides to use the tickets that Luca had gifted her, landing up right on his doorstep. As the episode moves towards its conclusion, the viewers are treated to a tender scene where Mavis and Luca share a heartfelt kiss, bringing the Netflix series to a poignant close.
The crux of episode 8 lies in Mavis's rollercoaster of emotional journey - a swift progression from accepting Jacque's marriage proposal, reversing her decision, parting ways with him, and ultimately reuniting with Luca. All these occur in the same episode. On the professional front, Mavis finds herself in the golden phase of her career, collaborating with Natasha and building her company as per her vision.
Despite the gripping narrative, this episode subtly highlights the hasty progression of the overall plot of the Netflix series. Moreover, the character sketches are so designed that it becomes difficult to empathize with any character other than Jacque, primarily due to the striking display of selfishness and narcissism, with Mavis as the prime offender.
Her acceptance of Jacque's proposal appears to be based on the alignment of this decision with her plans. She even convinces her friends about her love for him and her desire to start a family with him. However, a sudden phone call from Luca changes her mind, and she ruthlessly discards her relationship with Jacque. This manipulation makes Mavis a complex character, difficult to relate to or sympathize with.
Incorporating morally ambiguous characters indeed adds a layered depth to a show, and it's usually a brilliant addition. However, projecting such a character as a beacon of virtue can be disconcerting and less than appealing.
