What I’m Watching: Royal Pains

Royal Pains: Season 1, Episode 3 “Strategic Planning” (B+)

This show seems to have found its tone well at this point, and I’m quite comfortable with it. The scene where Hank jogs around Evan is a perfectly defining moment which sums up the shows in a minute. Just like he knows that exercising is healthy and worthwhile, Hank knows that people are sick and he’s ready to get out there and help them. Evan, who’s not in peak physical shape, is less eager, and wants to spend more time planning out their business model. Their bantering is highly amusing, especially when you throw the two women in the mix. Divya’s hatred for Evan is hilarious, and watching Evan interact with Jill is highly entertaining. The cases of the week – which is rather impressive, that there are always multiple – are cool, because Hank’s getting to be useful in a way he never could have before, by providing discreet, confidential care to the rich and famous. Evan’s side plotlines provide him plenty of opportunity to get into trouble, and the fact that the ailment that befalls him and his ladies is diagnosed instantly and laughed at by both Divya and Hank makes it all the more entertaining. The guest appearance by the great Campbell Scott just seals the deal and makes this the first really good episode of USA’s new show.