Speechless - R-A-Y-C-RAY-RAYCATION - Review: Practice runs & Girl Troubles

For a freshman show it is always important to keep the quality on a fairly high level throughout its freshman run, even better would be to contiously raise the bar they are setting with strong powerful storytelling. And luckily for all of us, Speechless is improving. Week after week, delivering captivating stories that tackle events in JJ's life with respect but adding a comedic element to the story that will make you giggle, laugh out loud and eventually cry.

First a major shut out to the writers for coming up with the practice runs. Ray and his need for Raycation was a hilarious set up and the writers did an excellent job by exploiting the chaos ruling in the DiMeo household. I laughed so hard when Ray threw cereals at Maya and Dylan.

Now lets dig into the really good stuff. The show continued to work on involving a love interest into JJ's life. And it was a pure delight to once again see McKaley Miller in the role of Claire, a cheerleader currently wheelchair bound. McKaley and Micah have a sweet chemistry going on between them and the scenes shared between had a pure innocense to them. Team Adults worked really hard to give JJ a shot at making it work with Claire, they'vebeven prepped a practice run with Ray. The runthrough with Ray wearing the wig totally into it was a delight to watch. Still, the insecurities messed with JJ's head and their attempt failed. It was heartbreaking to see JJ beaten down but still trying to keep up an appearance in front of everyone. The follow up scene with Maya where she shared her worries with JJ was a true standout and kudos to both Minnie and Micah.

The writers choice to finish this episode with the brothers bonding was perfect, it did come out of nowhere but a perfect choice. Ray was the only one who could relate with JJ and the hopeless romantic in Ray was ready to fight for his brother's happiness. Also Ray having a back up limousine cause he knew that his family would fail him, was a nice expensive and tidbit unrealistic touch. Ray choosing his brother over the Raycation was adorable and sweet and a great testimony to their brotherly love. The follow up scene at the beach was on point and probably the best they've shot over their short season 1 run.

Another highlight of the episode was Jimmy and Maya deliberating if they should let JJ date Claire. It was so simple but true to their characters who were so worried about JJ's well-being. Also loved Maya's line about yelling at Clair to be with JJ.

The side story featuring Dylan, Jimmy and Ray was very entertaining as well. Dylan being Jimmy's Toy pro and their annual Xmas scam opened up space for a lot of great jokes, especially when we found out that Dylan has lost her touch. Kyla shines in those moments, she embraced the role of Dylan completely and executes the lines like a pro. The Jimmy-Dylan pairing is certainly a winner each time the writers write them together. Would love to see more of Dylan and Maya, though. Their relationship is pretty much neglected. Hope for that to come up in upcoming outings.

Favorite quotes:

Dylan: I guess it's time to enjoy the joys of womanhood. Do you know what night Scandal is on?

Dylan: The things they would do to Emma Watson. We need to warn her.

Ray: One time I told a girl that I liked her and she told me sorry but I'm not a lesbian.

I really hope you enjoyed R-A-Y-C-RAY-RAYCATION as much as I did. Drop down to the comment section and share your thoughts on the episode and the review for that matter.