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After the introduction of the pretty large ensemble cast (so large that two regulars are missing in this episode), the second hour of Mad Men takes the necessary time to have a closer look at some of the more troubled characters, mostly female, as indicated by the episode's title (Ladies Room).Specifically, two ladies are at the center of the plot: Don's secretary Peggy, who gets to learn from Joan how to get a free meal from the male staff (possibly without giving them anything in return), and his wife Betty (January Jones), who we got a very brief glimpse of in the pilot's last scene. On the surface, she may look like an ordinary '60s housewife, but in reality something's not all right, and after a minor accident with the car she thinks it's better to receive some expert advice. Don, on the other hand, has to deal with the new assignment from his boss Bertram Cooper (Robert Morse) to work on Richard Nixon's campaign and Roger's suggestion that he open up a little about his personal life.Compared to the previous episode, very little time is devoted to the usual ad job the guys have to do (this time it's a deodorant spray), in favor of some crucial psychological development: Peggy is already starting to come off as more complex than she appeared to be, but the real core of the show is the Drapers, one terribly secretive (Don), the other profoundly insecure and confused (Betty). Together, however, they try their best to carry on their reputation as a normal, happy American family. Just like those you see in advertisements.The claim made by some critics that this could be the new Sopranos is even more justified now than it was in the pilot. Sure, there's no nudity or violence, and the swearing is limited to the occasional S-word (this isn't HBO or Showtime, after all), but with mood, characters and dialogue so perfect, who needs extra flesh, blood and profanity?
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