SNL's Continued Downward Spiral Thread

It was rough but I don't know if anyone expected that episode to be good. Maybe SNL should limit the double-duty duties to the Timberlakes and Chance the Rappers of the world. I did find Lizzo's constant breaking to be endearing. I did chuckle a few times (game show, Please Don't Destroy) and it was nice to see Melissa actually finding something to do.

 

That cold open was on point. Hopefully, it bodes well for the rest of Benedict's night.

 

It may. His monologue was hilarious (“I was beaten by Will Smith!”), and he was in the first sketch. Looking like a great batting average tonight!

 

Benedict might as well be doing a Sam Elliott impression in this Blue Bunny impression.

And Heidi Gardner is glorious.

 

In every sketch so far.

 

This episode's been an absolute home run, even through a great performance by Arcade Fire. They've done some great stuff in their times on SNL, like Kristen Wiig's grand finale with Mick Jagger and that great "Arcade Fire or SNL Cast Member" game show sketch.

 

In EVERY sketch. Not every one was a home run, but Cumberbatch came to play. Kudos.

 

He is incredibly likable.

 

The fainting couch sketch was like Benedict's impression of an American doing an impression of a Brit.

And Chloe Fineman's understudy sketch, where she's impersonating the cast? Amazing.

 

Agreed - loved the Sam Elliot callout (the mustache and hair part gave it away - but he could have tilted his head a bit more) on the ice cream sketch. This season has been extremely strong. Fewer "what was the point of that?" sketches or throwaway talk show/game show bits. And yes, Chloe Fineman's bit was great. It's almost a good sign of the show when WU is shorter than normal.

 

I have a feeling Sarah Sherman has had some success in pitch meetings. She’s been a welcome addition. Still wish they used Melissa Villasenor more but it looks like that ship has sailed. I’ll be shocked if she’s back next season.

 

Andrew Dismukes apparently caught some writers' eyes, too. His screen time really skyrocketed between last season and this one.