Saturday, August 14, 2021

What I’m Watching: Ted Lasso

Ted Lasso: Season 2, Episode 4 “Carol of the Bells” (B+)

There’s nothing like a Christmas episode in the middle of August, but this show is going to be finishing up its second season sometime in October, so I don’t see a reason not to have it right now. The notion that everyone celebrates Christmas, including Jewish actor Brett Goldstein, who plays Roy, may not be accurate, but the idea of being together for the holidays is something I can absolutely relate to and get behind. Higgins opening up his home to players who didn’t have anyone to be with turned into a huge extravaganza, and I liked the unassuming nature of the affair and how they ended up eating at a long table made up of surfboards and pool tables, among other improvisations. Rebecca getting Ted involved in her charitable efforts was sweet, and it was good to have him be the one who needed the cheering up and distracting for once since the roles are usually reversed. The most entertaining plotline of the episode, however, was by far Roy and Keeley setting out on a mission to help Phoebe rid herself of the horrible breath that nearly knocked both of them out. Roy’s confidence that he could find a dentist in his neighborhood was hilarious, and I like that he was able to encourage Phoebe to stand up for herself in a “Love Actually” homage that served as the alternative to him beating up the kid who made her feel bad. Ending with Rebecca singing and everyone partying together in the street was great, affirming the wonderful spirit of this show.

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