Queens Review: Ain’t No Sunshine (Season 1 Episode 4)

While the rest of the group deals with uncomfortable truths, Brianna helps her family through tragedy on Queens Season 1 Episode 4, “Ain’t No Sunshine.”

Like a real life funeral, “Ain’t No Sunshine” is an emotional roller coaster that has us laughing, crying, and feeling peace. Queens continues to get better with each episode, showcasing the strengths and weaknesses of these women, while allowing them to act like real people.

As the fourth episode, it’s a definite closing of the introductions, before we get to the meat of the show.

It’s the cruelest cut that just when Brianna forgave Jeff, he passed away from his brain tumor. As she deals with the gauntlet of emotions she’s feeling, with almost no dialogue, Eve heartbreakingly takes us through each one.

Obviously she’s hurting, but Brianna also has to be strong for the kids and Jeff’s family, while still feeling conflicted about his cheating. She doesn’t have the freedom to voice her feelings, but Eve never lets us lose sight of the heavy emotional load she’s carrying.

And of course, Jeff’s mistress is pregnant. Queens already has so many soap opera style storylines, adding this one feels like one plot thread too many.

As great as Eve’s performance is, we’d like to see Brianna get a few moments of happy, drama free fun before the actress’ maternity leave begins.

We finally get a firm answer on Jojo’s paternity, when Naomi confirms to Eric that he’s the father. If there’s a story on Queens that isn’t working, it’s the so-called “connection” between Naomi and Eric, as well as Jojo’s paternity.

Every time one of them starts talking about it, it brings the show to a stand still. Also, we can’t get past how Naomi has been lying to Jojo all these years. She decides to tell Jojo the truth, so she and Eric can develop a relationship. We just don’t think we care anymore.

As for Jill, she tells Tina she slept with someone else, leading the pair to amicably part ways, because Jill isn’t ready to settle down. We’re extremely grateful Queens didn’t drag this out, as we couldn’t sit through weeks of nervous, guilty Jill.

We’re excited to see where Naturi Naughton takes Jill now that she’s finally free to explore her true self. Wherever her journey goes, it needs to be away from the reporter who’s clearly chasing clout. The way she keeps calling Jill an icon makes it sound like she’s just interested in notches on her bedpost.

The series’ one major drawback is the lack of story for Valeria. All the other characters have important arcs that drive the show, while Valeria is just there to serve them.

We know supporting roles are crucial, but she’s becoming one note. We need to know more about her, and what she brings to the table, because Nadine Velazquez isn’t getting enough quality material.

At this point, Queens has introduced all its most important characters and stories, so we know what the show is. While we’re enjoying the music and bond between these women, all the stories have been heavy.

Yes, there are moments of comedy, like Brianna beating down Jeff’s mistress at the funeral, but we need to see the Queens loving life away from music.

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

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Queens airs Tuesdays at 10/9c on ABC.

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