NEW SHOWS
The Handmaid’s Tale – “The Wilderness” (A) / season finale
This season was all over the place, narratively and emotionally. But they pulled off a satisfying, if gruesome, finale. This has easily been the worst season, but of course I’m still in for whatever they’ve got cooked up next. Still, they shouldn’t keep this going for too much longer.
BINGEING
Avatar: The Last Airbender – Season 3 (A- average)
While the first half of the season gave me a “When are they going to get to the fireworks factory?” feeling, the back half was all payoff, with a completely satisfying four-part finale.
Hacks – Season 1 (A- average)
A whip-smart show that got better as it went along, this is the most pleasant surprise of the year. Give Jean Smart that Emmy now!
Master of None – Season 3 (A- average)
There are few edits and even fewer laughs in this quasi spin-off featuring Denise (Lena Waithe), now married to Alicia (a radiant Naomi Ackie), and the ups and downs of their relationship. The writing feels natural and the blocking and cinematography are gripping. The fourth episode will be among the best single episodes of TV this year.