How to Get Away with Murder Season 1 Episode 15:
"Pretty Like Mom"
Synopsis
In the 15th episode of How to Get Away with Murder Season 1, titled "Pretty Like Mom", Annalise Keating (Viola Davis) is in a bind as she’s forced to confront her own dark past. Meanwhile, the Keating Five continue to deal with the consequences of their actions, as the police investigation into the murder of Lila Stangard intensifies. The episode is full of twists and turns as the characters’ secrets and lies begin to unravel.
The Episode’s Main Plot
The episode starts with Annalise receiving a mysterious package that contains a Polaroid of her mother, who had abandoned her when she was a child. This leads Annalise to a series of flashbacks that reveal her troubled childhood. We see Annalise’s mother, played by Alicia Coppola, as a manipulative and abusive woman who uses her daughter to get attention and sympathy.
Meanwhile, the police are closing in on the Keating Five, who are trying to cover their tracks. Frank’s (Charlie Weber) loyalty is tested as he’s forced to choose between Annalise and the law. Bonnie (Liza Weil) tries to distance herself from the group, but it’s too late, as her involvement in the murder has already been revealed.
The Consequences of Deception
As the investigation continues, the Keating Five’s secrets and lies begin to catch up with them. Rebecca (Katie Findlay) is forced to confront the consequences of her actions when she’s questioned by the police. Meanwhile, Wes (Alfred Enoch) and Caleb (Matt McGorry) are struggling to keep their own secrets hidden.
Key Moments
- The reveal of Annalise’s mother’s true nature: The flashbacks provide a shocking insight into Annalise’s childhood and her mother’s manipulation. This revelation adds a new layer of complexity to Annalise’s character and her motivations.
- Frank’s ultimatum: Frank is forced to choose between his loyalty to Annalise and the law. This plot twist raises questions about Frank’s character and his true intentions.
- The police closing in: The investigation into Lila’s murder is gaining momentum, and the Keating Five are running out of options. The tension builds as the characters’ secrets are slowly uncovered.
Themes and Symbolism
- The power of secrets: The episode highlights the dangers of keeping secrets and the consequences of deception. As the characters’ secrets begin to unravel, they must confront the truth and the damage it has caused.
- The trauma of childhood: Annalise’s flashbacks provide a powerful exploration of childhood trauma and its lasting effects. The episode highlights the importance of confronting the past and seeking help to heal.
In Conclusion
"Pretty Like Mom" is a tense and emotional episode that exposes the dark secrets and lies of the Keating Five. As the characters’ worlds begin to implode, they must confront the consequences of their actions and the truth about themselves. The episode sets the stage for the rest of the season, as the characters must navigate the consequences of their deception and face the truth about their own dark pasts.
Episode Statistics
- Airdate: March 11, 2015
- Viewers: 8.14 million
- Rating: 3.4/10 (TV-14)
Episode Quotes
- "You’re not a good liar, Frank. You’re a terrible liar." – Annalise Keating
- "I didn’t do it. And even if I did, I wouldn’t tell you." – Rebecca Sutter
Episode Trivia
- The episode was written by Bill Creelman and directed by Mike Smith.
- The episode features Alicia Coppola as Annalise’s mother, who appeared in only one episode of the series.
- "Pretty Like Mom" is the 15th episode of the first season of How to Get Away with Murder.
