Animal Kingdom has been an up and down ride so far, and an enjoyable one. The most enjoyable thing from this episode was seeing Craig in action again. He did really well with his catering gig recon, and now he seems to have again found a bit of momentary genius in finding a way to move a seemingly immovable target. No spoilers!
There have been a number of other reviews that have similarly voiced displeasure at his character, his many screw ups, his rather unethical decisions and how he was not a real contributor to the family in any tangible way for quite a few episodes. It is great to see him finally having another moment in the sun where he is able to solve problems rather than create them.
We seen more backstory of Janine in the 70s which affirms her reckless devil may care spirit hanging around her group of criminal veterans. Her screen time is limited, but she does get some news regarding her recent MRI.
We also learn more about Angela who just popped out of nowhere a few episodes ago. Despite her past, she seems sincere to turn her life around, while it is interesting to see if there is something developing between her and Pope perhaps.
There's some friction between J and Mia. Mia's role and her extended circumstances are not clearly defined, so it is up to the view to try to understand what is happening there as I am as confused as the other reviewers for this episode as to what her actual deal is. I hope for all the fans sake it does get explained eventually.
Meanwhile the boys are trying to keep Pope off a ledge by finding him some busy work with some pretty hilarious results while trying to plan the next job without Pope knowing he is not in this time around.
By now the show is showing some real cohesion of characters that is fun to see, especially the way the characters can quip so easily with on another. I liked this episode and hope the rest of the season is as great! 9/10.