What I’m Watching: Vegas

Vegas: Season 1, Episode 8 “Exposure” (B+)

Prior to his official election as Sheriff, Ralph hadn’t demonstrated much of an ability to cooperative with other agencies, and that didn’t change until well into his collaboration in this episode with Air Force investigator Kemp. His initial assessment of the Lamb administration as entirely nepotistic wasn’t inaccurate, though keeping it in the family tends to be more productive than destructive. Ralph leading the guilty men on a high-speed chase through the base fence so that they would be in his jurisdiction was a classic trick, and he sure enjoyed informing them of his accomplishment. Vincent coming to congratulate Ralph on his victory was a great scene, and Vincent’s response of “Don’t look at me” following the announcement of a dead body was fantastic. Vincent had plenty to worry about in this episode with Johnny’s mobster instincts and the presence of Diane, who didn’t want to take no for an answer from Vincent. Purposely mentioning Havana in front of Laura wasn’t kind, and it’s good that Vincent resisted the urge to give in to Diane’s inappropriate request for Laura’s necklace as payment for keeping Johnny occupied. Laura managed to prove quite defensive when she went to lunch with Catherine, and I’m intrigued to see if and how that relationship will progress. Mia’s speedy elevator transfer was impressive, and I’m sure Jack will be devastated to learn that his crush is more involved in the illegal affairs of the casino than he’d like to think. Ralph finding his wife’s file indicates that he’s set to dig deeper into the circumstances of her death, which is bad news for any criminal hanging around Las Vegas.