Portlandia season 5 episode 1 Recap and FAQ
Episode Summary
Toni and Candace, owners of Women & Women First bookstore, reflect on their past as corporate rivals in New York City. They initially competed fiercely for a top position in the merged Crown Books and B. Dalton corporation. Realizing that their sexist boss, Bruce, never intended to promote a woman, they unite, disguising themselves as men to secure the leadership of the Chick Lit Department. Disillusioned by the pervasive sexism, they abandon the corporate world to open their feminist bookstore, embracing their newfound alliance and ideals.
Full Episode S05E01 Recap
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of the bookstore run by Toni and Candace?
Women & Women First.
What were Toni and Candace's roles before opening the bookstore?
Toni was a Senior VP at Crown Books Corporate, and Candace was Head of New Business and Acquisitions at B. Dalton Corporate.
Who is Bruce Nathansen?
Bruce Nathansen was the boss who merged Crown Books and B. Dalton into Cralton, and he pitted Toni and Candace against each other.
What department were Toni and Candace competing for?
They were competing for the head of the new Chick Lit Department.
How did Toni and Candace try to outdo each other?
They engaged in various corporate tactics and office politics.
What was the turning point for Toni and Candace in the corporate world?
The turning point was realizing that Bruce never intended to give the Chick Lit position to a woman.
What disguise did Toni and Candace use to lead the Chick Lit Department?
They disguised themselves as men, using the names Kirk and Jeremy.
What led Toni and Candace to leave the corporate world?
Their disillusionment with the sexism in the corporate world led them to leave.
How did Toni and Candace's relationship evolve throughout the episode?
They went from being adversaries to allies and friends.
Where did Toni and Candace decide to hide after leaving their corporate jobs?
They decided to hide in a bookstore, which later became Women & Women First.
What was the focus of their interview with Rick?
The interview focused on the history and philosophy of their bookstore.
How did Toni and Candace describe their corporate past?
They described it as a time of ambition, competition, and eventual realization of corporate sexism.
What was the final scene of the episode?
Toni and Candace closing the bookstore and leaving together, discussing their past.
What is the significance of Women & Women First in Toni and Candace's lives?
It represents their rejection of corporate sexism and their commitment to feminist values.
How does the episode portray the theme of female empowerment?
It shows Toni and Candace overcoming corporate sexism and establishing a business aligned with their feminist ideals.
