Saturday, April 23, 2022

What I’m Watching: Better Things (Penultimate Episode)

Better Things: Season 5, Episode 9 “England” (B+)

I’ve long felt that the second-to-last episodes of seasons or series are often the best, and that usually applies to dramas, but this show has never been just a comedy. It was fitting to go to England and have Phil declare that she wants to stay because she’s ready to move on to the next chapter of her life. Max, on the other hand, is making yet another decision that may not make all that much sense but isn’t pushing in the same way, explaining to Sam that it was her idea and that Phil didn’t force her into it. Duke and Frankie were quite shocked to learn that news, but Phil’s goodbye song was a very appropriate way to bid farewell to an extremely entertaining character. Marian was absolutely thrilled to not have to worry about his overbearing mother anymore, conceding her to Greenwich Mean Time, and pointing out that Sam might have a hard time without her mom boyfriend Phil wasn’t all that kind. I liked that Sam gave Max her shoes only to ask for them back for the night since they were still on the trip, a grand gesture indicative of a deeper sentiment. In addition to seeing some iconic scenes recreated, we got to see Duke chug Max’s entire drink, yet another exploration of her growing up fast, and Caroline even got to respond aggressively to Sam’s attempt at an act of solidarity that she found very condescending. I’m looking forward to the finale – it’s been a good run.

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