So far into season 4 of "Scandal", it's been an hour of relief after "Madam Secretary" and "Homeland" disappoint me. Sure, it's not "The Good Wife", but prior to this embarrassing episode "Scandal" has been on a roll of soap opera credibility. "Like Father, Like Daughter" disillusioned my newfound sensibility for Olivia Pope and her show, thinking they learned where their weakness lie. This episode falters thanks to a tacky, misplayed story--with an attempt at social criticism of reality stars--and dialogue written so poorly that even Washington stumbles and crumbles in most of it. Worst of all, the directing exacerbates the ridiculous writing into a mostly laughable episode. Fortunately, the episode is not completely insufferable, though it will certainly feel like it is until the last act. Washington has one scene near the climax of the episode that elbows through the lousy writing, and Joe Morton appears in the final moments to make a notable conclusion.
Grade: D+
Grade: D+
