NEW SHOWS
Mare of Easttown – “Sore Must Be the Storm” (A-)
Felt a little overstuffed, but once again the emotions and the incredible acting took this to another level. And we had another lump-in-the-throat cliffhanger, plus more Jean Smart greatness.
The Handmaid’s Tale – “Home” (A)
The first truly great episode of the season, as June adjusts to a land where she’s allowed to do all the things she was forbidden in Gilead: Sleep as long as she likes, shower, shop, read, and have sex that’s strictly about her pleasure. But she’ll still be dealing with her psychological wounds for a long time, and her ways of coping thus far aren’t necessarily healthy.
Friends: The Reunion (C)
For a show that was and remains extremely popular, this felt wildly unnecessary and overlong. And I say that as a fan of the show. Nothing can prepare you for the sight of Matthew Perry with a fresh set of dentures.
BINGEING
The X-Files – Season 4 (A- average)
The best season yet, with even more all-time episodes. Gillian Anderson is simply on another level. It’s no surprise she won the Emmy for this season.