The upcoming series, featuring Stephanie Hsu, known for her role in *Everything Everywhere All at Once*, follows Ruby, an event planner confronting the unexpected loss of her former partners. The cast includes notable talents such as Zosia Mamet from *Girls* and *The Flight Attendant*, alongside Michael Angarano, recognized for roles in *Sky High* and *Oppenheimer*. In the series, Angarano’s character, Isaac, enlists Ruby’s help to organize his parents’ anniversary celebration, leading to a delightful connection forged through their shared affection for musicals.
In a revealing interview with Grant Hermanns from Screen Rant, Martinez shared his experiences while recreating a memorable number from *The Greatest Showman*. He admitted that the pressure of performing in front of the entire production crew intensified his nerves. Below are his insights:
I wouldn’t categorize myself as a dancer. [Laughs] I haven’t had formal training, but being Latino, I feel a natural ability to pick up movement. Working with an exceptional choreographer in Vancouver made a significant difference. Initially, we focused on segments of the choreography one-on-one before seamlessly integrating Stephanie’s part into the dance. It took about two days—around two hours each session—to get the hang of it. However, the real challenge was performing it on camera, which was incredibly nerve-wracking.
There were a lot of eyes on me, and I thought, “Goodness, everyone is going to judge my dancing!”[Chuckles] But, I learned to embrace the experience and have fun with it, ultimately making it a cathartic moment.
Martinez elaborated further on the challenges faced while mastering *The Greatest Showman* choreography:
There was a specific moment where I attempted a double spin on one foot, which proved to be quite challenging for me. I know we filmed several takes to capture different angles, and it felt distinctively different on set compared to rehearsals. During rehearsal, the presence of a large mirror helped me gauge my balance and foot positioning, but that was absent on set. I typically don’t wear my contacts while shooting because my eyes tend to dry out, so I stick to glasses, which make it hard to see—definitely not ideal for finding my balance. Nonetheless, we managed to complete the shots.
The Impact of *The Greatest Showman* Recreation in *Laid*
Bringing Broadway Dreams to Peacock
In the fourth episode of *Laid*, the incorporation of a musical number from *The Greatest Showman* adds a vibrant contrast to the show’s darkly comedic atmosphere. For Ruby, musicals are not just entertainment; they serve as both an escape and a source of joy amidst her tumultuous romantic experiences. A particularly whimsical moment occurs when Ruby embraces her role as the bearded lady, playfully donning faux facial hair. This dance becomes a significant expression of affection from Isaac at a time when Ruby navigates the complications brought on by the series’ quirky romantic circumstances.
As a unique blend of romantic comedy infused with elements of macabre, *Laid* utilizes such moments to provide levity against its deeper themes. Similar to the musical escapades found in *Glee*, the *Peacock* series caters to a niche audience, as evidenced by its impressive 96% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. This rating underscores the show’s innovative yet entertaining portrayal of contemporary millennial dating challenges. The heartfelt rendition of “Come Alive”further enriches the connection between Ruby and Isaac, allowing their relationship to flourish despite Ruby’s fading romantic ideals.
Our Perspective on *Laid*’s *Greatest Showman* Tribute
A Showstopper with Heart
Martinez’s candid reflection on the challenges faced while performing provides a relatable insight into the making of an entertaining moment in *Laid*. His commitment to mastering the choreography, despite his modest dancing skills, exemplifies the dedication of the cast in reimagining the beloved original version of this Australian series for American viewers.
This scene also accentuates the growing chemistry between Martinez and Hsu, whose vibrant enthusiasm and shared passion for musical theater significantly enhance the performance. Such moments of connection are what make *Laid* a captivating choice for holiday viewing, combining humor, emotional depth, and unexpected twists. For enthusiasts of musicals and offbeat romantic comedies, this series is a must-watch on Peacock.
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