All American Review: Testify (Season 3 Episode 9)

Who else is emotionally compromised? 

Everyone’s favorite teen drama returns with All American Season 3 Episode 9, “Testify.” It’s an hour so unbelievably moving, it may go down as one of television’s most memorable teen drama installments of all time. 

That may sound hyperbolic, but as a self-proclaimed teen drama aficionado, I have the credentials to make that type of statement.

The difficult thing about broaching gritty, real-life issues in a teen setting, is the danger of presenting as overtly preachy.

Corny never resonates with audiences. The conflict is heightened for dramatic effect, performances are dialed up to ten, and what should be read as intimate storytelling, ends up feeling like an after-school special.

All American doesn’t have that problem.

The show possesses a type of finesse in tackling delicate topics truly unparalleled to any other show of the same genre. Both the storytelling and acting are invariably grounded, allowing the show to execute themes with poignancy, not melodrama.

There’s no better example of this than “Testify.” Tackling mental health, addiction, and systematic racism, the episode ebbs and flows seamlessly from topic to topic, weaving itself together in a cohesive narrative. The result is a flawless episode of television that nails every scene it delivers. 

Spencer’s relationship with therapy has been an ongoing topic throughout the season. The recognition he isn’t “finished” with his mental health just because his designated sessions are over, intersects naturally with Olivia’s addiction and increasingly manic behavior.

It’s difficult to watch two people who have just fallen in love be torn apart by their own issues, but the conflict feels natural.

They’ve both been on season-long journeys towards individual growth. While their love for each other might be there, the timing isn’t — not if they want to continue on those journeys in healthy ways.

Dr. Spears: Self-care is not selfish. There’s a reason they tell us to put our oxygen mask on first before we help others.

All American is able to make these conflicts feel organic because the storytelling is never rushed. Things like addiction and mental health aren’t used as simple plot devices, and major story points about characters’ lives are never forgotten — only built upon over time.

Olivia’s drinking has been subtly referenced from the All American Season 2 finale, and Spencer’s therapy has been an inevitable conclusion from the moment he woke up after getting shot.

The same goes for the relationship between Spencer and Olivia. A dynamic that has developed over the course of three seasons, their ever-deepening bond makes Olivia’s carelessness with Spencer’s life s a truly guttural mistake. 

Not only is Olivia drunk behind the wheel with Spencer in the car, she thoughtlessly allows a black man to take the blame for her own mistakes.

The cold open alone serves as a threefold of importance to the episode.

Olivia: I have people waiting for me to come back. And I know it’s my fault that you’re not still one of them.

It subtly (but imperatively) highlights the ongoing racism rooted within the police system against black people — something made abundantly clear when the officer’s demeanor softens upon recognizing the name of Olivia’s white, district attorney and affluent mother.

The scene also focuses on the severity of Olivia’s relapse and the lengths she’s willing to go, serving as a warning of what’s to come. Lastly, Spencer’s innate willingness to lie for Olivia, proves how deep his problem with tackling the burdens of others actually lies. 

It’s seamless storytelling at its best. An unbelievably difficult scene to watch becomes the catalyst for both characters recognizing the work they must do individually, before being together. 

It’s painful, but it’s also immense character growth.

The performances only aid in the soaring success of“Testify,” with every actor turning in exceptional portrayals.

Spencer’s inner conflict between his love for Olivia, and doing the right thing, is painted across Spencer’s face throughout the episode. Ezra plays it like not actively protecting Olivia is a physical agony for the character; as if he has to physically hold himself back from coming to her rescue. 

Taye Diggs gives one of his best performances of the series, as he misguidedly lashes out at Spencer. Diggs is also tasked with balancing quite a bit of humor in between his more emotional scenes — something only Taye Diggs could deliver so effortlessly.

There’s is no performance that outshines that of Samantha Logan.

“Testify” is an illustration of how far Logan’s acting abilities can go.

Forced to exude every heavy emotion, she delivers with poignant gravitas. From uncontrollable tear-filled breakdowns, to absolute unhinged panic, she nails every challenge she’s given. Somehow, Logan portrays Olivia as a deeply flawed and experienced addict, as well as a frightened, lost child. 

She may be at her best, however, in the scenes where Olivia must masterfully lie, manipulate, and use her love for Spencer as leverage in order to get what she wants.

It’s the perfect example of the lengths an addict will go to, and Logan plays it with maniacal desperation that feels chillingly real; something completely separate from the usually genuine, down-to-earth Olivia Baker audiences have come to know.

“Testify” Is an episode that makes you feel, but also wakes you up. It forces you to recognize how those close to you can slip through your fingers if you aren’t paying attention. It will make you take a look at your own reflection, but also call up your best friend to ask “How are you, really?”

 It’s an episode for the record books.

Random Thoughts: 

• Asher is lucky he’s even on a team at this point; he should take a seat and stop complaining. 
• Layla showing up for Olivia gives hope to the future of their friendship. 
• There is no greater oracle than Grace James.
• The scene between Olivia and Jordan absolutely wrecks me.
• Self-care is not selfish. Period. 
• Keeping Olivia at home feels like the right choice for her. The road to recovery is different for everyone.
• Spelivia fans fret not! This couple’s journey is just beginning. 

What did you think of this episode of All American? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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All American airs Mondays at 8/7c on The CW. 

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