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Among the standout episodes of Season 2, Episode 6, titled “Sloppy Joseph,” is arguably one of the finest, and possibly even the best. This particular episode features Charlie (Natasha Lyonne) in a unique case involving children for the first time. It’s a more somber episode compared to others, yet it offers a distinct twist—it subtly parodies horror movies that feature children, such as “Orphan.

This upcoming episode boasts an array of delightful guest performers, offers an amusing narrative, and presents an unusual dynamic that Charlie isn’t accustomed to. It promises to have audiences rolling with laughter. Despite being centered on a school exclusive to children, it stands out as one of the most comically terrifying episodes this season.

How “Sloppy Joseph” Is Like a Parody of Esther

In “Sloppy Joseph,” the sixth installment of Poker Face Season 2, our protagonist Charlie finds herself in a fresh environment with another fresh job. This time she’s serving lunches at an elite private school. The main plot is propelled by Stephanie Pearce (Eva Jade Halford), the star eight-year-old pupil who’s used to coming out on top. When her winning streak is challenged by a young boy named Elijah (Callum Turner) who’s gradually edging closer to her in terms of earned stars, Stephanie makes a terrible decision. She devises a complex scheme to undermine his talent show appearance.

Halford skillfully depicts Stephanie as a rebellious young girl, bearing a resemblance to characters like Veruca Salt from Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory. However, she’s not merely spoiled or entitled; she’s malevolent. Her physical characteristics echo those of Esther (played by Isabelle Fuhrman) in the 2009 film Orphan. The nine-year-old girl from that movie, with her dark hair styled in pigtails and a similarly ominous demeanor, was downright terrifying. She displayed cruelty towards animals, other children, caused mishaps, and even injured herself to shift the blame onto others.

In a less severe and more humorous manner, Stephanie appears to be as unscrupulous as Esther. She has been known to harm animals, extort individuals, falsely accuse others, and shows no signs of regret for her actions. When Charlie challenges Stephanie’s falsehoods without swearing in front of children, the chilling smile that crosses her face speaks volumes about her true nature.

As a movie enthusiast, I can tell you that in the film “Orphan,” it turns out (spoiler warning) that Esther is not really a child but a 33-year-old woman with a unique hormonal condition disguised in a child’s body. To put it another way, fans of this movie may find themselves surprised like me when they see Stephanie taking off a mask to unveil her true identity as an adult psychopath who has been masquerading as a child all along.

The ‘Poker Face’ Episode Shows Charlie’s Softer Side

In “Sloppy Joseph,” Charlie shows a tender and compassionate side for the first time, as she navigates a difficult case involving a girl who has committed an atrocious act and another whose self-esteem is crushed. The situation revolves around a pet gerbil instead of a human life, but Charlie understands that this young girl’s actions are no less sinister than those she’s encountered in her other cases. Despite the child’s wickedness, it calls for gentle handling due to her age. Keep in mind, though, that even as evil as Stephanie appears, she is still too young to be treated like an adult.

As a movie buff, I first engage with Stephanie at the playground, a vibrant backdrop for my usual investigations and insights. Although I already suspect her involvement, I attempt to communicate with Stephanie without accusation, hoping she might confess willingly. However, when I sense that I’m dealing with someone truly malicious, despite her youth, I revert to my familiar tactics to expose Stephanie and bring her to justice. I even go as far as calling her a “miniature devil,” a term that only serves to escalate the tension between us.

Above all, Charlie takes extra steps to aid the young lad who was unjustly treated. Her priority lies in shielding an innocent young boy with his bright future, rather than in punishing the young girl who has perpetrated a heinous act. In this case of two contrasting ages, Charlie remains steadfast in her efforts to champion the underdog and is determined to see that the wrongdoer faces consequences.

The most amusing moment in the episode occurs towards its close, mimicking a scene straight from a horror flick. Now, Stephanie finds herself in a predicament where she’s no longer the sole shining student, and the spotlight has shifted elsewhere. Additionally, her habitual misdeeds like blackmailing Dr. Hamm, portrayed brilliantly by Margo Martindale, must be put on hold, as numerous other prominent actors grace this season.

In response, Stephanie, an ominous eight-year-old, presents Charlie with a souvenir for spoiling her elementary school years. This token she bestows upon Charlie is a symbol of what Stephanie yearned to earn from her teacher, Ms. Dee – a star similar to the one she desperately sought. At first, Charlie believes she has formed a harmonious bond with Stephanie. However, a chilling message hidden on the item’s underside sets Charlie into motion, rushing to her car and fleeing the alarming circumstance. The implication is that this encounter might not be the last between them. If there’s one individual connected to a case that could keep Charlie alert and always watchful, it’s this intimidating eight-year-old.

Before Charlie experiences fear like never before, she engages in a conversation with Good Buddy (Steve Buscemi) regarding her recent escapade. Laughingly, she remarks that these youngsters may not possess all the solutions, commenting on the current generation. Although there are many good ones among them, Stephanie isn’t one of those. She might not be an adult trapped in a child’s body like Esther from Orphan. However, she shares a similar level of eeriness in a fittingly comical mimicry. Watch Poker Face on Peacock.

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2025-05-29 19:33

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