GROUP CHAT Episode Five

Who am I?

Previously on GROUP CHAT: The ghost of Isabel(le) haunts the chat, Ross is back stateside with even fewer clues, and Nick asks the biggest question in publishing: what about men?

This week: Can the self occupy virtual space?

In Jungian psychology, the “self” is defined as “a transpersonal power that transcends the ego.” Jung’s writing on the self is foundational to our understanding of the concept, but contemporary culture presents many questions Jung failed to anticipate. Can the self occupy virtual space? Is appearing onscreen an opportunity for liberation from the ego, or is it a further indulgence of the ego that ultimately forecloses one’s ability to access the self? Is it possible to transcend one’s ego on a reality TV show? Luckily, the cast of GROUP CHAT is here to take up Jung’s work for the rapidly changing present.

After establishing himself early in the series as the chat’s token Canadian, Spencer kicks off this week determined to show off another dimension of his character:

Spencer’s ontological crisis proves contagious when he challenges his castmates to define his character based on his bookshelf, and others quickly follow suit:

The true avatar of Jasmine’s identity, however, is not her bookshelf, but her preferred brand of edibles:

Meanwhile, Ross may be a retired stoner, but thanks to the contact he made in Japan, he’s not retired from the workforce just yet:

Back in the chat, the question of the self and its mediation finds its perfect focus in the recent controversy over Rachel Cusk’s forthcoming collaboration with Natalie Portman:

In fact, Cusk is not the only Rachel the cast suspects of presenting an inauthentic self:

What is James talking about? Is there really more to Spencer than being Canadian? What ever happened to Ryan? If asking these questions leads you to wonder who you really are, tune in next week for another chance to live your truth!

Next week on GROUP CHAT:

GROUP CHAT is a production of Grey Fiction Media. All episodes are written, directed, edited, and produced by Stephen Piccarella. All original music by Sebastian Castillo.