Abbott Elementary Season 5 Episode 20 Review: Night Out

Abbott Elementary Season 5 Episode 20, “Night Out,” is, hands down, the strongest outing of the season, and that’s thanks in part to the hilarious performances from this talented cast. Quinta Brunson and Tyler James Williams, in particular, really knock it out of the park. It’s a smart move to soften the blow of Janine and Gregory’s breakup from last week’s fare with this laugh-out-loud story. 

Abbott Elementary, “Night Out” 

While the episode features the show’s typical three storylines, Gregory and Janine’s arcs seamlessly intertwine without them interacting. Ava and Erika take Janine out, while Jacob and his brother, Caleb, do the same for Gregory. As it turns out, both friend groups arrive at the club where Janine and Gregory first danced together (Season 2 Episode 10, if I’m remembering correctly). 

Neither Janine nor Gregory is handling the breakup well. The scenes in the club are some of the best in the show’s history, and this writer doesn’t feel like that’s hyperbole. It’s the marriage between sharp physical comedy and smart dialogue that truly makes these sequences sing. We’re privy to the sides of Gregory and Janine that we seldom see — uninhibited, unbuttoned, and unfiltered. 

Brunson goes all out for Inebriated Janine, and it’s a stark reminder that she’s a comedy queen. Janine isn’t afraid of speaking her mind, especially to unwanted potential suitors and even the girlfriend of a man who’s eyeing her.

Coyote Ugly 

However, the most shocking narrative beat is easily Janine telling Ava off. My jaw was on the floor. It even rocks the normally unshakeable Ava to her core. The writers cleverly make this Janine’s moment to deliver her scathing takedown free of repercussions. After all, Ava knows she’s drunk, and she’s licking her wounds post-breakup. It’s the perfect opportunity for the typically buttoned-up Janine. 

Meanwhile, Gregory’s harassment of the DJ is also laugh-inducing, as is his Coyote Ugly moment. Williams has always been adept at physical comedy, and, like Brunson, his line deliveries while playing intoxicated are pitch-perfect. Jacob tries desperately to reel in his best friend, while Caleb encourages all the debauchery. Tyler Tomás Perez is a great addition to this cast, and he’s quite endearing as Jacob’s lovable if irresponsible brother. 

Elsewhere, Barbara, Melissa, and Mr. Johnson gather for a movie night at Mel’s house. “Night Out” does the right thing by making this the C-plot and not pulling too much focus from the A and B-stories. This trio’s arc is significantly breezier and lighthearted. It should resonate with anyone who has a friend who loves to chat during movies.

There’s something sweet about Barb becoming fascinated with how the movie is made. It’s proof positive that you’re never too old to fall in love with filmmaking. Regardless, this arc in the overall narrative perfectly complements the stronger storylines. 

On the Outskirts 

At the end of “Night Out,” Janine and Gregory separately contemplate getting back together. Janine feels that since she initiated the breakup, she can’t reverse it. Meanwhile, Gregory was told not to push back if a woman doesn’t want to be with him. Ugh. I just want to give these adorable goofballs a good shaking. 

It wouldn’t be Abbott Elementary without the occasional drama, though. Janine and Gregory might stay separated for a while until they come to their senses. You have to leave the audience in post-breakup purgatory for a spell before bringing them back to heaven. 

“Night Out” maintains steady momentum from beginning to end, providing a smooth blend of hysterical one-liners, performances brimming with vim and vigor, and strong physical comedy. It’s this show at its best—humorous and heartfelt (but heavy on the humor). 

Stray Observations: 

• This series never fails to build on Mr. Johnson’s lore, and “Night Out” is no exception. Barb’s seat in the teachers’ lounge used to be his? Mr. Johnson’s uniform is actually a jumpsuit? I love it all. 
• To be fair, Long Island iced teas are deadly. They also bring back memories of partying in the club in 2013. They’re a quintessential Millennial drink. 
• Mel’s right — Jacob really did look like a wartime widow as he mourned the loss of Granine. 
• Barb, Mel, and Mr. Johnson’s storyline is basically promo for Avatar: Fire and Ash, and that’s perfectly okay. 
• If we Millennials had multiple theme songs, one of them would be “This Is Why I’m Hot.” 

---

What did you think of this episode of Abbott Elementary? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to leave your own rating!

Critic Rating:

Audience Rating:

 

Abbott Elementary airs new episodes every Wednesday at 8:30/7:30c on ABC, with next-day streaming on Hulu.

Check out our latest TV recommendations, updated weekly!

Want more from Tell-Tale TV? Subscribe to our newsletter here!