This latest episode is as close to the classic W&G era as we're ever likely to get. I *loved* it... however, I also hesitate to say that, because I also said I *loved* last week's episode, but it took watching this week's to realise last week's was not that great. So there's clearly a nostalgia factor I have to consider when rating.
That said, tons of classic W&G elements were present: Sean Hayes did what he does best in the brilliantly slapstick magnet/makeup scenes. He's just such a fine physical actor. Will had a strong episode that was true to his character, with Eric McCormack shining in the senior gay lecture scenes. Again, it played to Eric's strength: he's so great with the wordy, manic monologues.
Sadly, the weak points for the second week in a row were Karen and Grace. Megan Mullally did a great job but was relegated to B-story supporting material again. And Debra Messing, while a lot calmer than last week, is the last of the four to find her old groove: she continues to be shouty and shrill at times. It's such a shame as Debra was probably the most accomplished, albeit broad, comedian of the four back in the day - at her peak, she pretty much channeled Rita Hayworth and Lucille Ball. Still, I think she'll find the sweet spot again; there are glimpses of it, but she perhaps hasn't had the material yet. There are hints that Leo might be back next week, so fingers crossed she'll have the chance to shine again. I do hope so, because in many ways Grace has always been the heart of this show.