Ep 5. Nia Vardalos/Eve

The 28th season of "Saturday Night Live" continues with episode 5, featuring host Nia Vardalos and musical guest Eve. Vardalos, best known for her work in the hit film "My Big Fat Greek Wedding," brings her comedic talents to the stage of Studio 8H.

The cold open of the episode features a parody of the Bush-Kerry presidential debate, with Will Forte as George W. Bush and Seth Meyers as John Kerry. As the two candidates trade barbs and try to win over undecided voters, the sketch takes some unexpected turns with some hilarious moments.

The monologue features Vardalos sharing stories about her Greek heritage and her experiences as an actress in Hollywood. She also shares some jokes about working with Tom Hanks and the challenges of being a cross-eyed actress.

Next up is a sketch called "Fancy Pants," which features Vardalos as a woman who loves to wear fancy pants and has a group of friends who share her passion. But things take a turn when one of the friends (played by Amy Poehler) shows up in sweatpants, causing tension and drama among the group.

One of the standout sketches of the episode is a parody of "The Bachelor," featuring Vardalos as the bachelorette and the male cast members as the eligible bachelors. The sketch takes some hilarious jabs at the reality dating show genre, but also manages to deliver some genuine laughs with some unexpected twists.

Musical guest Eve takes the stage to perform her hit song "Gangsta Lovin'" featuring Alicia Keys, which was at the top of the charts at the time of the episode's airing. Eve's energetic performance brings the house down and showcases her skills as a rapper and performer.

The episode also includes a Weekend Update segment with hosts Tina Fey and Jimmy Fallon, who deliver the latest news and jokes with their signature chemistry and wit. Highlights of this segment include a skit featuring Meyers as a political correspondent and Poehler as a fake astronaut participating in a spacewalk.

Another memorable sketch is "The Leather Man," featuring Vardalos as a woman who hires a leather-clad man (played by Fred Armisen) to help her feel more confident and powerful. The sketch takes some unexpected turns and delivers some big laughs, thanks in part to the chemistry between Vardalos and Armisen.

Overall, this episode of "Saturday Night Live" is a solid outing with plenty of laughs and memorable moments. Vardalos proves to be a capable host with plenty of comedic talent, while Eve delivers a standout musical performance. Fans of the show and newcomers alike will find plenty to enjoy in this classic episode of "SNL."