American Auto Season 2 Episode 9 Review: Night Out

American Auto Season 2 Episode 9, “Night Out,” finds Katherine inviting her employees to her mansion for a non-work party. Naturally, things get weird. 

This series has mastered the art of narrative chaos, and while “Night Out” undoubtedly takes a turn for the chaotic, the writers also skillfully experiment with awkwardness. Everything about this episode is inherently awkward. 

WESLEY: Can you imagine the runoff this guy gets? Even his leftovers gotta be eights and nines. 

When you have killer comedic performers like the American Auto ensemble, those uncomfortable, cringe-worthy moments garner some of the biggest laughs. Harriet Dyer, Tye White, and Humphrey Ker do awkward particularly well. 

“Night Out” methodically evolves Team Payne’s bond throughout the episode, from the crew’s reluctance to spend time with Katherine outside of work to their collective desire to cheer up their boss, culminating in a full-blown party. It’s fun watching them let loose onscreen. Cyrus singing karaoke by himself is hilarious. 

Sadie and Jack acknowledge their tryst from the previous episode. How refreshing is it to have two sitcom characters who plainly and honestly address their feelings shortly after they have sex? So damn refreshing. Hats off to American Auto for not stringing viewers along by refusing to let Jack and Sadie confront their romantic entanglement. 

ELLIOT: Yes, I believe it is basic house guest etiquette not to stare directly at a couple while they’re actively divorcing. 

“Night Out” isn’t the show’s strongest outing, but it’s a fun, lighthearted romp that allows the leading players to cultivate their bond. It doesn’t do much by way of developing the overarching, seasonal arc. However, not every episode needs to be a plot-stuffed installment focusing on the bigger picture. Sometimes, we simply need a delightfully entertaining half-hour of escapism filled with lovable characters, heartwarming moments, and plenty of partying. 

Stray Observations: 

• Seeing the gang in a non-work setting is always simultaneously jarring and exciting. It’s like running into your teacher at a grocery store. Believe it or not, people can exist outside of their respective workplaces. 
• I would kill to party at a mansion like Katherine’s. I need to find an older maternal figure to take me under her wing. You know, one that’ll buy me stuff. So, I suppose what I’m asking for is a sugar mama. I’d also settle for partying with Ana Gasteyer. 
• It’s always uncomfortable to watch couples argue at a shindig. I find it easier to tune it out if I focus on something in the distance. Dissociation for the win!
• I’m rooting for Jack and Sadie. They’re 50 shades of cute. I’d like to consider them the next Jack and Diane (Sorry, John Mellencamp.). 
• At least Dori and Sadie know where they’ll be buried when they die — right next to Katherine. How sweet. 

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

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American Auto airs Tuesdays at 8:30/7:30c on NBC, with next-day streaming on Peacock.

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