Alabama Shakes

Between the monologue, one whole sketch, and the punchline of another sketch, you would think that Fifty Shades of Grey is Dakota Johnson’s first acting role. Even though it is her big break, Johnson has had roles before (Ben and Kate forever!) and she will likely have roles after. But the titillation of being able to make jokes at the expense of BDSM is just too strong for the writers this week. And it’s easy not to blame them, because Johnson comes off as utterly uncomfortable with her duties tonight. Johnson appeared to be a bundle of nerves during her monologue, standing stiff, not moving her arms, her voice shaky.

Proving last week’s stellar season opener wasn’t a fluke, “I Found You” is an excellent follow-up episode. Despite the supernatural nature of the show, True Blood’s final season is unfolding with a heavy dose of realism–the actions and emotions of the characters are right on point, and even the brief touches of humor feel natural and earned among so much horror and dread.