All American Review: Can It All Be So Simple (Season 4 Episode 5)
All American Season 4 Episode 5, “Can It All Be So Simple,” drops drama for joy as characters manage big wins, and discover the answers to their futures.
The answer to the episode title, “Can It All Be So Simple,” seems — as of now — to be an unwavering “yes.” There’s no competition here, only camaraderie. There are no failures either, as everyone in All American is burgeoning into their best selves.
The panic instilled in Spencer enacts something rare for All American — its protagonist gets to act like a kid.
One to always take the lead in solving problems, watching Spencer surrender his faith in the adults is beyond satisfying, and a perfect encapsulation of how far he’s come. The Spencer James of All American Season 1 would try and take the issue on himself. Season 4 Spencer knows better, and lets Billy and Laura Baker take lead.
Spencer’s job is to leave it all on the field — something he does with flying colors. It’s difficult to put into words how touching it is to watch not only Spencer — but all the characters we’ve rooted for these past four years — cheer each other on as they perform for college recruiter eyes.
Let’s just say it calls for a tissue or two.
Spencer’s maturity juxtaposes perfectly against JJ, someone who clearly isn’t quite as developed as the rest of the players. Still in a place where his personal wants rank above what’s actually best for him, it takes a persistent Asher to course correct him in the right direction.
Upgraded to main cast this season, All American will hopefully dig deeper into JJ beyond the one-note characterization he still carries. It’s nice he ends up with a scholarship, but his success is more a nod to Asher’s growth than his own.
It’s clear a major theme of this season is growth. All American wants to showcase how far its characters have come, and it’s doing that effectively.
There is a definitive, linear thread depicting Spencer, Asher, and Jordan’s personal progress — characters who have tossed ego at the door, and begun to recognize what’s best for their futures.
Jordan’s reaction to the lack of college interest is most impressive. The selfish, boastful Jordan Baker introduced in the All American pilot would use the opportunity to act out, and rebel over misplaced anger. The Jordan of today accepts reality, and makes the best of what’s in front of him.
He chooses to see the silver lining, and that maturity rewards him in the end.
The same can be said for Olivia, whose progress as a recovering addict is still being portrayed on a weekly basis.
The amount of times I have commended All American for its delicate handling of mental health is endless but deserves repeating. The show very deliberately uses things like addiction as core characterizations over plot devices, and that devotion is truly a groundbreaking approach in regards to YA television.
Olivia morphing her own experiences into a potential sponsor is the perfect path for her future. It’s a more narrowed and interpersonal arc to highlight her growth on an individualistic level.
The podcast is an incredible feat — certainly something that will define her story moving forward — but this choice administers a more personal touch to her narrative.
The kids really are alright.
It’s unlikely this is the end of the road for All American, but some of the stories do have a sense of finality. The kids may be graduating high school, but the show undoubtedly has plenty more stories to tell.
I would be more worried, but everyone magically attending the same nearby colleges (you have to appreciate the tried and true formula of a teen drama) gives me faith.
Hopefully, the show plans on at least two more seasons of incredible television. I want to see how these teens tackle college — especially when they become small fish in big ponds.
Random Thoughts:
- Something All American is always going to do, is provide Spelivia “catch up” time, and I love them for it.
- I need more Layla, and not just in regards to other people’s storylines.
- I’m glad Billy gets things worked out, but I would have loved to see Laura tear down that Toledo coach.
- What a perfect college choice for Spencer James. Beautifully crafted.
- This might be the last time we see all our favorites on the same field together. I’m emotional.
- I have a feeling Billy’s threats may come back to haunt him. Good thing his wife’s a lawyer.
- Are Patience and Coop headed for a breakup?
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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Kat Pettibone
Kat Pettibone is an aspiring TV writer, artist, and poet. As a Pacey Witter Fan Club lifer who never missed a TGIF, she has dreams of becoming your generations small screen Nora Ephron. She's also an avid lover of coffee, dogs and all things spooky.