What I’m Watching: United States of Al

United States of Al: Season 2, Episode 10 “Professor / Ustad” (B+)

I wasn’t sure if we’d see Al’s professor again, but it seems like he’s going to become a more involved member in his personal life, paying Al back for the many interruptions in his professional space. Of course Al would have distinct ideas of what is and isn’t okay regarding the expression of romantic interest in a member of someone’s family, and he’s also very clueless about social cues in American culture. As usual, one of the most entertaining parts of this was watching how Art reacted to Brett flirting with his daughter and Al getting worked up about the whole thing. I’ve often felt that Lizzie is the most underused character on this show, and giving her a love interest is a great idea if only because it might enable her to have more screen time. I’m not sure I would have chosen Brett as the most exciting option, but it’s at least good for her to get back out there with someone who seems harmless at best and perfectly safe, though likely too boring for her to ultimately decide that he’s the right one for her. I’m glad that Holly is sticking around and doesn’t seem too turned off by Riley being Riley. He was understandably panicked about not being able to perform as he hoped to, and I enjoyed that he tracked down his therapist and followed him to the hospital so that he could get some crucial advice even as the man was undergoing medical treatment.