The Orpheus Syndrome

"The Orpheus Syndrome"
Poker Face episode
Episode no.Season 1
Episode 8
Directed byNatasha Lyonne
Written by
  • Natasha Lyonne
  • Alice Ju
Teleplay byJoe Lawson
Featured music
Cinematography byJaron Presant
Editing byShaheed Qaasim
Original release dateFebruary 23, 2023 (2023-02-23)
Running time57 minutes
Guest appearances
Episode chronology
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"The Future of the Sport"
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"Escape from Shit Mountain"

"The Orpheus Syndrome" is the eighth episode of the American murder mystery comedy-drama television series Poker Face. The episode was written by lead actress and executive producer Natasha Lyonne and consulting producer Alice Ju and directed by Lyonne. It was released on Peacock on February 23, 2023.

The series follows Charlie Cale, a woman with the ability to detect if people are lying. After using her ability to win poker tournaments, she is caught by a powerful casino owner in Laughlin. Rather than banning her from his casino, he gives her a job as a waitress. After her friend is found dead, Charlie uncovers a plot where the owner's son ordered her murder to protect a powerful client. She is now on the run after exposing the casino, with head of security Cliff going after her. This episode follows Charlie as she works as an assistant to a retired special effects artist. After her friend dies, Charlie sets out to unravel the truth.

The episode received near-universal critical acclaim, with critics praising the writing, performances, Lyonne's directing, humor, cinematography and special effects.