Ep 16. Meet the Veals

In season 2, episode 16 of Arrested Development, titled "Meet the Veals," the family meets a new, unconventional couple. The episode focuses on the Bluth family's attempts to get to know their adopted niece's biological parents, Bob Loblaw and his fiancée, Starla. The Bluths are shocked to discover that Bob and Starla's family, the Veals, are extremely conservative and religious.

As the Bluths attempt to navigate their new relationship with the Veals, each member of the family finds themselves facing their own personal challenges. Michael struggles to keep his relationship with his son, George Michael, on track, while also trying to fit in with the Veals. Meanwhile, Buster falls in love with Starla, and Lucille tries to use the Veals' conservative values to her advantage.

The episode is filled with the show's trademark humor, as the Bluths repeatedly put their foot in their mouths in front of the Veals. From discussing their own family's issues to accidentally referencing Bob's ex-wife, the Bluths seem unable to get anything right. Despite their best efforts, however, the family manages to make some progress in building a relationship with the Veals.

Throughout the episode, the Veals serve as a foil to the Bluths, highlighting the stark differences between the two families. While the Bluths are known for their dysfunction and lack of morals, the Veals are portrayed as extremely moralistic and judgemental. This dichotomy serves as a commentary on the nature of family and the ways in which different families can operate.

One of the standout moments of the episode is when Lucille attempts to use the Veals' morality against them. She tricks them into attending a fundraiser for the Bluth Company, where she uses their presence to make it seem as though the company is supporting conservative values. This scene highlights Lucille's manipulative nature and her willingness to do whatever it takes to help her family's business, even if it means betraying the values of her newfound friends.

Ultimately, the episode ends with a poignant moment between Michael and George Michael. After struggling to fit in with the Veals, Michael realizes that his son is the most important thing in his life. The episode serves as a reminder of the importance of family and the lengths we will go to in order to protect and care for those we love.

Overall, "Meet the Veals" is a well-crafted episode of Arrested Development that explores the complexity of family relationships. With its trademark wit and humor, the episode manages to be both entertaining and thought-provoking, highlighting the ways in which our values and beliefs can shape our relationships with others.