'One Day' Episode 5 Takeaway: Dexter Mayhew breaks down over Alison Mayhew's declining health

Netflix's latest series, 'One Day', illustrates a beautiful depiction of platonic love and adulthood
PUBLISHED FEB 8, 2024
A still from the trailer of 'One Day' (@Netflix)
A still from the trailer of 'One Day' (@Netflix)

Contains spoilers for 'One Day' on Netflix 

LONDON, ENGLAND: The TV series adaptation of David Nicholls's beloved book, 'One Day,' made its debut on Thursday, February 8. It has been receiving acclaim for its captivating storytelling.

The 14-episode series revolves around Dexter Mayhew (Leo Woodall) and Emma Morley (Ambika Mod), whose coincidental encounter sets the stage for a 20-year-long intertwining of fates.

The narrative follows Emma and Dexter as they navigate through adult obstacles, including family, love, career issues, and ultimately, self-discovery.

Dexter Mayhew hands over Emma Morley's gift to Alison Mayhew

Ambika Mod and Leo Woodall in 'One Day' (Netflix)
Ambika Mod and Leo Woodall in 'One Day' (Netflix)

The episode opens up with a montage of Dexter's extravagant lifestyle. He is portrayed dancing exuberantly at a party, indulging in alcohol, and effortlessly mingling with girls, displaying a carefree demeanor

In the aftermath of a hangover, Dexter rushes to visit his mother, Alison Mayhew (Essie Davis), the very next day. Upon reaching his family home, he discovers Alison sitting quietly in the backyard, seemingly anticipating his arrival.

Dexter presents Emma's birthday present to Alison, who accepts it and inquires as to whether they are still friends. Dexter, visibly affected by Alison's declining health, responds with a silent nod and a smile.

While putting her to bed, Alison asks Dexter about his plans for the evening. When he mentions attending a movie premiere, Alison requests, at the very least, to take some time to grab dinner.

Feeling disheartened by the disarray in Alison's condition, he leaves her room, throws up, and returns to drinking in his room.

Dexter breaks down and calls Emma

A still from 'One Day' (@Netflix)
A still from 'One Day' (@Netflix)

Soon after, Alison wakes him up, initiating a heartfelt conversation. However, Allison voices her dissatisfaction with Dexter's unstable lifestyle and begs him to make amends. She firmly believes he can be a good man.

Dexter seeks forgiveness for his drunken antics, but Alison, instead of dwelling on apologies, urges him to commit to visiting next time. 

The following scene unfolds with Stephen Mayhew (Tim McInnerny) dropping Dexter off at his house where he reprimands him for his unreasonable actions.

In an attempt to find solace, overwhelmed Dexter reaches out to Emma, pleading for her company to attend the film premiere.

To make matters worse, he recalls her date plans. Overwhelmed by emotions, Dexter breaks down and begins sobbing uncontrollably. 

'One Day' is now streaming on Netflix.

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