NEW SHOWS
Saturday Night Live – “Phoebe Waller-Bridge/Taylor Swift” (B+)
A mostly successful episode thanks to Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s deft maneuvering in playing all different types of characters. “Mid-Day News” was probably the best non-political/non-game show sketch they’ve done in a very long time.
The Righteous Gemstones – “But the Righteous Will See Their Fall” (A-)
My favorite episode since the big reveal at the end of Episode 2. Gideon chooses not to implicate his dad in the robbery, leaving Jesse to confess on his own, which sets off a whole string of chaos. Judy goes apeshit after B.J. refuses to reconcile, and Kelvin sinks into a drunken state of depression. It’s a bad time for everyone, but makes for a great episode.
It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia – “Dee Day” (B)
One of the grosser episodes the show has done, leaning hard into offensive stereotypes (on purpose). But it’s all worth it for the last five minutes, when Dee reveals herself as a mastermind.
South Park – “Shots!” (A-)
One of the show’s best episode in a while, this one takes on anti-vaxxers in its typical absurdist way. That ending is absolutely perfect.
The Good Place – “Chillaxing” (B+)
The Soul Squad has to adjust on the fly, as their tactics fail to work on the new foursome. Tahani has to have genuine connection with her earthly archnemesis, and Eleanor has to put Chidi in an uncomfortable position despite her affection for him. But those decisions put half the new group on the path to becoming a better person.
CURRENT SHOWS
South Park – “Band in China” (B+)
The best part of South Park has been its ability to instantly react to the news of the day. But in a rare turn of events, an episode ends up anticipating the news of the day. Airing just before Daryl Morey’s tweet in support of Hong Kong protestors ended up costing the NBA millions of dollars, this feels like an extremely savvy take
BINGEING
Schitt’s Creek – Season 3 (A- average)
The show grew even more delightful and heartfelt in its final stretch, as Alexis finally graduates high school and David finally opens his store, and kisses Patrick.