‘Veep’ season 2, episode 4 review: Are we really getting anywhere?
The more we watch of “Veep,” the more it reminds us of another comedy on premium cable at the moment in Showtime’s “House of Lies.” It is a funny show with some smart writing, but we consistently find ourselves wondering if there is ever supposed to be something more too it. Ever week, Selina Meyer comes out with a problem, ends up making the problem worse, and has to find a happy medium with the help of her staff. Jonah annoys everyone, Gary is weird, and the episode ends with everyone trying to pick up the pieces.
Now that we are in the second season, and comparing these episodes to the bold, daring storytelling of another HBO show in “Girls,” this is where our problem comes into play. Maybe we expect more from a show that airs on one of television’s finest networks, and much of this week’s episode felt like something we’ve seen before. Selina goes to a public function, scrambles to try to fit in, and ends up embarrassing herself in the process. Somehow, this woman is still in office after all of her various struggles.
We don’t want to sound completely harsh on the show (which was recently renewed for a third season), mostly because it is not terrible. There are a plethora of funny moments, but we’re waiting for that moment when we can scream “I love this show” from the rooftops. “Girls” had that this season, as did “Community” back in season 2 or “Parks and Recreation” back in season 3. We keep getting so close to it, but save for Selina’s pregnancy scare last year we’ve yet to get all of the way. It’s probably going to take us feeling something different about the show to make that happen, whether it is a completely new dynamic or a new setting to throw Selina into.
All of the pieces are there for “Veep” to go to that next level, especially with Gary Cole on the cast. The man, to be frank, is killing it as Kent in the screen-time he is getting. The more of him vs. Selina, the better.
What did you think about this “Veep” episode, and what do you think needs to be done to make the show better? If you want to check out more on the show’s renewal, be sure to hit up the link here.
Photo: HBO