NEW SHOWS
The Simpsons – “Treehouse of Horror XXX” (B)
I actually enjoyed each of the segments, even as I acknowledge this will never be as good as the old days. Put another way: I only rolled my eyes once or twice.
Watchmen – “It’s Summer and We’re Running Out of Ice” (A) / series premiere
One of the best pilots I’ve seen in a long time. It establishes an entirely new world, while still leaving you with tantalizing questions. Regina King is excellent as usual, but the rest of the cast is terrific in each of their roles. I have no idea where this will go next, and that’s truly exciting.
It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia – “The Gang Texts” (A-)
The best episode of the season so far. Filled with great verbal and visual gags, it’s also the funniest. It also, kinda sorta, has a message to share. Nothing as profound as last season’s finale, of course, but there’s something there.
The Good Place – “Employee of the Bearimy” (A-)
Michael faces down his deepest fears in his biggest gambit yet, freeing Good Janet in the process and getting to gooify Vicki. As things go awry in the “Good Place,” the friendship between Eleanor and Tahani deepens. Fooooolllllleeeesssssss!
CURRENT SHOWS & SPECIALS
El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie (B+)
While a lot of the episode is, well, episodic, it’s ultimately extremely satisfying to see Jesse finally get a happy ending. Also, Scott MacArthur is 2019’s best dirtbag thief, between this and The Righteous Gemstones.
BINGEING
Better Call Saul – Season 3 (A- average)
The show finally, completely clicks for me, in some ways exceeding Breaking Bad. The strained relationship between Jimmy and Chuck is the real reason for this show to exist, and it’s absolutely heartbreaking. And, of course, there’s the greatness of Rhea Seehorn, who’s even better than usual as Kim Wexler.
Schitt’s Creek – Season 5 (A- average)
I’m finally all caught up with the warmest, most delightful show on TV. I think Season 4 is probably still the show’s greatest batch of episodes, but this has the only moment that’s actually made me tear up: Patrick’s proposal to David, which comes at the end of a frustrating day, which makes it feel even more real.