I don't understand why every Blue Bloods episode needs an "issue." Discussing various real-world topics isn't bad per se, but the format is utterly predictable and it gets preachy week after week. Only minutes into "Smack Attack," I knew there would eventually be talk about drug legalization. Once we saw the drug usage and Nicky being snarky, it was clear where the episode would go.
And like clockwork, the dinner table discussion about drugs arises, with only Nicky and Jaime arguing for legalization. Yeah, it's a relevant topic, especially since Prop 19 will be voted on in California next week, but the show could be much more tactful about conveying various messages about drug use. Maybe it's because I've been spoiled by The Wire, but character chiming in with generic talking points isn't potent as it could be.
"Smack Attack" also undercuts serious inquiry into drug legalization, because the crime turns out to be a teacher who had sex with a student and wanted revenged. Ultimately, though, the episode is more about Erin and Nicky than drugs. The episode ends Erin being nice for a change, realizing how much her mother has on her plate.
Score: 8.2/10
