What I’m Watching: Veep

Veep: Season 4, Episode 9 “Testimony” (B+)

This episode was much more formulaic than this show tends to be, but there’s no denying the absolute brilliance of the dialogue on this show and the way that it was put to use in this installment. I particularly enjoyed the testimony given by Amy and by Sue, and the uniform sarcasm with which the two of them, Bill, Kent, and Ben addressed the committee was terrific. Jonah’s nicknames being read off was a highlight, far more worthwhile than his having to discuss the touching of his private parts. Gary consulting repeatedly with a lawyer was also entertaining, and Catherine’s testimony was particularly dry and unfriendly. Selina was all business, contradicting herself on many occasions and then reading a statement when she should have been answering questions, breaking up her daughter and her fiancé during the course of her time on camera. Framing Bill was an inevitability because he’s a fringe character, and what with the constant talk of scapegoats by everyone, leave it to him to have to be the one to go, offering the committee the chance to watch him undress and see the blades sticking out of his back, some terrific metaphorical imagery. Ben was especially blunt with the committee, making it clear that he doesn’t do well being accosted by anyone, especially high-ranking political figures. Tom chiming in at the end with his own account and his description of Gary was well worth his brief appearance. Who knew that this season was almost over, with just one episode left?