TVSquad

(S05E04) This week didn't really bring anything mind-blowing, but it returned us to old stomping grounds. With this episode, It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia revisited a few familiar themes: gross people from the gang's history and the never-ending quest to bang moms. Mary Lynn Rajskub (remember, it's like "rice cub") made her Always Sunny debut as Dee and Dennis' "garbage pail cousin," Gail the Snail, and successfully joined the McPoyle brothers in that elite league of characters that make viewers feel greasy just from looking at them too long.

In a weird, almost impressive way, Frank repeatedly redefined "rock bottom" as the episode went on. His beer-gurgling and gassy half-conversation with Mac on the sidewalk was pretty nasty (those noises were otherworldly), but getting hand action in the kitchen from his niece took things to a new level. I guess not being blood-related makes a difference. My understanding of genetics says yes, though my cringing body says no.

The gang's not quite accurate understanding of the "intervention" concept was also kicked up a notch. Their intervention-ing of Frank wasn't nearly as solemn and dramatic as the one from "Charlie Got Molested." There was just a lot of drunken screaming involved, which, I suppose, was to be expected since it was the gang staging an intervention at their bar. Apparently, all a person needs to do to stage an intervention is scream the word as loudly and as frequently as possible. Aggressive pointing also helps.

I must admit, even during the funeral, I couldn't bring myself to like Gail the Snail, as I didn't see what she could offer that the McPoyles didn't. However, that quick exchange between her and the gang during her exit from Paddy's was hilarious. Insert salt/assault joke here; insert resulting giant groan here. Now, I'm curious to see what else Gail and her overactive salivary glands are going to do.

Everything about Mac's pursuit of Gail's mom was spectacular, from his poor timing at the funeral to the failed/extra-crispy breakfast. And I can only imagine what masterful martial arts moves he pulled to kick that door and ruin that window. I bet it involved a lot of whooshy noises.

Finally, we all picked up something valuable in this episode, and that was the fine idea of putting box wine in a can. Practical and classy! The resulting red wine-stained lips (and the skin surrounding the lips) creates a pouty look. I'm going to start keeping all my alcohol in old soda cans.

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