NEW SHOWS
Crashing – “Baptism” (B+) / season finale
A fitting finale to a season all about finding yourself. I honestly think Leif never should have been seen again after “The Yard Sale,” because he’s so annoying, and I hope they don’t have Pete and him become roommates next season. But this was a solid first season that I hope gets better next year.
Brooklyn Nine-Nine – “The Audit” (B)
It’s been a long three months without this show, and while it’s good to have it back, this episode’s just not as strong as some of the earlier stuff in Season Four. The Jake & Amy vs. her ex plot worked, but the office shenanigans felt a little tired.
The Americans – “Crossbreed” (B+)
The first episode where I really noticed how slow this season is, and that’s not necessarily a knock. This is a show that will devote a full minute to an undercover Elizabeth doing tai chi with her mark. This is a show that will follow Oleg systematically, cathartically destroying evidence that might blackmail him, and set it to a Peter Gabriel deep cut.
CURRENT SHOWS & SPECIALS
The Americans – “Lotus 1-2-3” (A)
The best episode of the season thus far, filled with sex, regret and one of the most genuinely moving scenes of the whole show.
Dave Chappelle: Deep in the Heart of Texas – Live at Austin City Limits (B)
Not nearly as sharp as his first special, and slightly more problematic. Still, it’s uproarious.
Saturday Night Live – “Louis CK/The Chainsmokers” (A-)
The best episode since Dave Chappelle hosted, thanks to CK’s commitment to every bit, no matter how absurd, and for just how dark it got so frequently.