‘Mad Men’ season 7, episode 1 preview: Finding clues in new trailer

Anytime that you try to analyze something that is in a “Mad Men” trailer, you have to begin by acknowledging that what you are doing is playing a very dangerous game. The odds of there being something of substance in this video, after all, are very low.

Instead, you have to try to read into context clues and imagine that AMC is showing you certain things for a reason. Take, for example, the evidence at the end of the new promo that Don Draper has never been more content. Have he found personal success in professional failure? There is a certain expectation that comes with the season starting and imagining that perhaps Don is going through some advanced period of suffering, when that may not be the case.

As a matter of fact, we expect Don to be happy in some capacity when the series does pick back up. He is not likely to have everything he wants (he still has to atone for most of his past), but he may be a step greater to his own sanctuary than ever before. Maybe we say this as an optimist hoping that Don can in fact change; it’s very well possible that the affair scenes are a sign that he will be back to his old ways not long into the premiere at all.

One final thing worth noting now: We’re starting an official “Mad Men” podcast soon! This will be the best way for you to get great scoop on some of the episodes that are coming up, and also some analysis of every individual character. Think of it as your “Talking Mad,” since for whatever reason AMC decided not to give you an aftershow for this one.

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Photo: AMC