Loot Season 3, Episode 4, “Buona Sera,” introduces Molly’s new enemy in a guest starring role by The Good Place’s D’Arcy Carden. It’s one of those unmissable performances that must lock Carden in for next year’s Emmy Awards nominations. As if that’s enough, Carden fires on all cylinders opposite Adam Scott, who returns as Molly’s ex-husband John Novak. This episode, written by Sudi Green and directed by Carrie Brownstein, turns a predominantely undivided focus to the romacnes at and around the Wells Foundation.
Some of Loot’s efforts to explore different dynamics and their impacts work better than others. No matter, “Buona Sera” is entirely entertaining. On the other hand, it’s not all that surprising. The Howard and Destiny story is particularly predicatble. Simulatenously, it highlights a desire to see more among and from the majority of characters. Ironically, that point comes at the same time that “Buona Sera” adeuqality displays how well Loot has gotten to know Arthur and Molly, as well as how well they now know each other.
MORE: Loot Season 3, Episodes 1-2 Review
Romance at the Wells Foundation
Loot introduced Destiny before the trip to England, and, in that episode, there is chemistry between her and Howard. However, it’s a bit of a letdown that the comedy develops the romantic aspect of their dynamic so quickly. It feels like Loot misses out on getting to see Destiny and Howard get to know each other more before jumping to a first date. After all, “Buona Sera” does a great job of showing how well they match each other’s energy. It’s such a distinction from Howard and his ex-girlfriend, Tanya. Therefore, it’s exciting to think about watching Destiny and Howard fall for each other through more sweet moments. Of course, that can still (and, hopefully, will) come as after this first date.
Regardless of the pacing, it is fun to watch Nicholas rally for Howard because Howard is always in Nicholas’s corner. Similarly, it’s very in character that Nicholas plays the long game to get the last laugh with Ainsley in that fake-dating scenario. On that point, it’s perfect that Sofia immediately recognizes what’s happening between Howard and Destiny. She is such a perceptive character! The whole rapport at the Wells Foundation is so good and so lived-in, and X Mayo fits into that workspace with such ease. The cast’s chemistry and the characters’ growing dynamics sells the absurdity of Howard’s cybersecurity presentation. If only Loot could let us know a bit more about Ainsley – anything!
MORE: Everything We Know About Shrinking Season 3
Letting Go of Anger and Finding an Enemy
That disconnect with her becomes all the more apparent when John Novak steps back into the picture. He pops in and out of Loot’s run, yet the show has revealed more about him than some of the other main characters beyond Ainsley. Even as he desperately tries to recreate himself with every appearance, John’s core remains the same. That alone is an interesting snapshot of the character in amber that juxtaposes Molly’s, albeit non-linear, development. This part could be played in such a one-note way, but Adam Scott infuses just enough charm in him that there’s an ever-dwindling chance that John’ll change.
Honestly, everyone – Maya Rudolph, Nat Faxon, Scott, and Carden – commit to their roles in that A story. That level of dedication makes the comedic range land. Loot, being as clever as it is, belivably plays that big comedy against the more grounded reality of Molly facing a man who really hurt her. For instance, the show maintains its sense of humor as John’s voice booms throughout her house. Simulatenously, “Buona Sera” acknowledges it as creepy and invasive.
Then, there’s the accent work in this episode from Carden – it’s bonkers, and has layers. It’s incredible when Carden lets Luciana’s Italian accent fall for Kate from Delaware. It’s like a mask slips off, and Faxon and Rudolph play that in their reactions. Even so, nothing is better than how “Buona Sera” showcases Molly’s development alongside her relationship’s strengths. Arthur is confident opposite John; He and Molly are that solid. Arthur is Molly’s rock – her big crystal, even. Their relationship is supportive and vulnerable; it’s a beautiful love story to watch progress week by week. Regarding that, Loot entirely earns that love confession after nearly two and a half seasons. Overall, “Buona Sera” proves that Loot is one of the must-watch comedies on TV.
MORE: Stick Renewed for Season 2 at Apple TV
—
What did you think of Loot Season 3, Episode 4, “Buona Sera?” Let us know in the comments below!
New episodes of Loot stream Wednesday on Apple TV.
