'Bel-Air' Episode 7 Review: Reboot that started on a high note is losing steam
'Bel-Air' came as a surprise to many. A dramatic and darker reimagining of the hit 90s sitcom 'The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,' the series only seemed to be inspired by its premise, making something entirely new out of the skeleton of a world created by Andy and Susan Borowitz. While some found 'Bel-Air' to be a drag at times, many were of the opinion that the reboot, kickstarted by a fan trailer made by Morgan Cooper, was an engaging watch that was of relevance.
Giving every single character ample screentime during which they address their wants and needs and face challenges, 'Bel-Air' had so far managed to stay engaging even though it was dabbling multiple storylines. However, the series is losing steam, or at least that's what we feel when we watch Episode 7 of 'Bel-Air.' Beginning with Will and Lisa being told to stay away from each other by their respective family members, Episode 7 of 'Bel-Air,' titled 'Payback's a B**ch,' shows Carlton struggling to be his normal self on the lacrosse field. He gets back to practice but ends up breaking Connor's wrist after hearing him make a racist comment.
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Connor turns the whole school against Carlton after the mishap, and Will comes up with an idea that could help boost Carlton's reputation. The cousins, who were once at war, are shown having lighter moments as Carlton realizes how Will must have felt during his initial days at the Bel-Air Academy. Will throws Carlton a party that isn't as happening as the ones that Carlton is used to, but he eventually loosens up, trying to make the most of the event that introduces him to people he wouldn't have met otherwise.
Elsewhere, Vivian finds out that Phillip is beginning to dig into the Banks' personal funds after losing investors, and is hurt when he calls it his account. Choosing to focus on herself and her art, she leaves for an art gala at Santa Clara, putting herself out there taking Reed's help, with hopes of restarting her career. Hilary is shocked to know that Kylo, the head of the influencer house she's a part of, has released a video of hers without her knowledge or consent, after editing it in a rather erotic manner. She decides to confront him about it on her own but is later joined by Jazz and the two set out to get Kylo to take the video down.
'Bel-Air' was one of those series that showed key characters encountering obstacles and overcoming them in their own way, often with style and grace as well. Sadly, that doesn't seem to be the case with Episode 7, as it marinates for far too long while trying to be laidback for once. If 'The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air' was watched for its humor, 'Bel-Air' was watched for its intensity and drama, and when the episode cuts down on it, it just doesn't seem to work out. 'Payback's a B**ch' is dull for most parts, and the only moment that stands out is when Carlton stands up for himself against Connor. Unfortunately, the latest episode of 'Bel-Air' isn't something that you should stay up late or wake up early for, so watch it when you have time to kill.
Fresh episodes of 'Bel-Air' drop Thursdays at 5 am ET on Peacock.
