Bel-Air Review: Can’t Knock the Hustle (Season 1 Episode 9)
Bel-Air is finally beginning to make greater strides toward realizing its potential as a great family drama series. The pieces have always been there, but they’re finally starting to fit together as the show moves forward.
On Bel-Air Season 1 Episode 9, “Can’t Knock the Hustle,” Phil is preparing for a big debate with Fred Wilkes, and the Banks family makes an appearance at church after a few years away. Plus – Vivian has a big decision to make about the fellowship.
“Can’t Knock the Hustle” is one of the best episodes that Bel-Air has done so far. It isn’t perfect, but it does start to figure out the elements of the show and how they work best alongside and intertwined with one another.
Even though most of the main stories revolve around Phil, Vivian, and Geoffrey, “Can’t Knock the Hustle” is truly about Will. On “Can’t Knock the Hustle,” the Banks family begins to realize how they’ve been positively impacted from Will’s arrival.
Carlton always wanted a brother, and now he has one that is helping him through his bad habits.
Vivian is rejuvenated creatively, and comes to the realization that Will has inspired her.
Phil even realizes the positive impact that Will has had on their family in the short time he’s been there – and falls on his sword at the debate rather than put his nephew through more trouble. Phil clearly feels like he has gained a son.
Philip Banks: I’m thankful that you’re in our lives. That you’re in this family.
But of course Jabari Banks expertly navigates the complicated feelings Will is dealing with about his father and the supportive, enthusiastic nephew/cousin/friend. This guy is going to be a star.
The drama with Geoffrey is regrettable, since Geoffrey is only trying to do right by Will. But with “Can’t Knock the Hustle,” Bel-Air seems to realize that the show is better when the drama is caused from outside of the Banks family, instead of within.
Fred finding out about Will’s arrest is extremely predictable, but the way that Bel-Air deftly navigates Phil’s reaction and answer is surprising and satisfying. Who knows what the fallout will be for Phil or Will, but the final moments of “Can’t Knock the Hustle” leave viewers wanting more.
Bel-Air is not without its flaws, but “Can’t Knock the Hustle” puts the show in a much better position with a united Banks family.
A few stray thoughts:
- Vernee Watson-Johnson and Daphne Maxwell-Reid make a guest appearance as members of the
hyphenated name guildfellowship committee. It’s great to see Bel-Air acknowledge the original series in such a direct way. - Hilary and Jazz being flirty is weird, isn’t it?
- Maybe Alfonso Ribeiro could be a vocal coach for Carlton? I feel like the original actors need to be associated with the new versions of their characters.
- I hope Geoffrey comes back soon because Jimmy Akingbola is *chef’s kiss*. Plus, you can’t just abandon one of Geoffrey’s meatiest stories!
What did you think of this episode of Bel-Air? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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Nick Hogan
Nick Hogan is an experienced podcaster and writer (particularly on media topics), who loves discussion and analysis of TV and is always looking for new shows to watch. He is also a parent who loves buffalo wings, blowing raspberries, and his beloved Cincinnati Reds.