It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia Review: “The Gang Squashes Their Beefs” (Season 9, Episode 10)

A few years ago, It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia gave us a pretty awesome Christmas special, showing that just because everything about the characters on a show is depraved, that doesn't mean they can't bring holiday spirit. But plenty of shows have made Christmas episodes, many with a new one every season. A Thanksgiving episode on the other hand, well far fewer shows have attempted that, and even fewer have made a Thanksgiving episode where none of the characters are thankful for anything at all. Because of that, The Gang Squashes Their Beefs should be a new holiday classic, if for nothing else than the novelty of the concept.

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I must say, even among all the strong aspects of this episode, Danny DeVito as Frank is the highlight yet again. Frank has always been funny, but this season DeVito brought him to an entirely new level, absolutely owning at least half of the episodes in season 9. He’s become more degenerate than ever before. From watching him curled up in a coil earlier in the season to staring down Hwang as he dances to ’80s music in this episode, I’ve become a much bigger fan of Frank than I ever was before. Incredible work by DeVito all season long.

This episode isn’t the best of the year, but it’s a very enjoyable end to an enjoyable season. It’s got plenty of funny moments, some of the most beloved characters from the past, and top-notch performances from all the main actors in the cast. Simply put, this episode reminds me why I’m truly thankful to be a Sunny fan.

As a whole, the show’s ninth outing has been another excellent season of It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia. While it isn’t on the same level as season 8, which I think is the best season of the show, season nine is on par with any other set of episodes the show has turned out. For a comedy to last this long and still remain fresh, innovative, and bold is a remarkable feat. Sunny has not only managed to maintain the incredible standard it has set, but it seems to top itself year after year. The actors have found ways to make their characters even more enjoyable, and the writing has been brilliant, as always. The result is one of the smartest and funniest shows on TV, and I can’t wait to see what they come up with next.

Other Random Notes

  • You know unrated movies are good. So good that they were not able to rate it.
  • It’s not preposterous that Mac and Dennis wanted to watch an awesome action movie on Thanksgiving. Every year when most people are watching football after their Thanksgiving dinner, I pop in Point Break. One of my favorite holiday traditions.
  • Serving squash and beef. Dirt and a hatchet. A rag and and a slate. “This is all very on the nose.”
  • I enjoy the McPoyle’s business plans. Investing in an emerging market like video stores.
  • I’m a little disappointed the Maniac wasn’t still in their apartment.
  • Dennis’ obsession with having people sign things so no one can stop him is hilarious. Falls in line with all his other psychopathic tendencies.
  • “Beefs are best left simmering under the surface.”
  • “It’s a little inconvenient, but it’s better than facing our problems.”

It’s been a pleasure reviewing this season of It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia. I hope you’ve all enjoyed reading my thoughts on season 9. I look forward to writing about season 10 next fall, and hopefully many more seasons after that. Thanks for reading gang!


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