Ep 18. Jimmy Fallon / Harry Styles

The forty-second season of Saturdy Night Live brought some flavor to the screen with episode eighteen titled "Jimmy Fallon / Harry Styles." This episode features the stunning hosting of Jimmy Fallon, an experienced host and regular on the show. Harry Styles, the former member of the boy band One Direction, also joined the cast as the performer, bringing his pop hits to the audience.

The episode began with a cold open about Sean Spicer's press briefings. This episode's cold open was Hogan's mind-blowing impression of Hicks, a White House employee. This sketch serves as an ode to her recent resignation. One of the strong points in this sketch is Aidy Bryant as Sarah Huckabee Sanders trying to give Spicer a Run-DMC jacket, which he rejected. This opening set the stage for what fans love about Saturday Night Live: comedy that is current, quick-witted, and timely.

Jimmy Fallon makes an appearance in the "Celebrity Family Feud" sketch that centers around the disparaging responses to questions regarding Trump's presidency. Fallon outdid his previous hosting feats with celebrity impressions and witty remarks. The sketch had everyone in stitches, delivering laughs that drove home the absurdity of the present political climate. This sketch was a clear highlight of the episode and a firm indication of Fallon's hosting greatness.

The second half of the show saw musical guest Harry Styles take the stage. Styles' effortless blending of folk, classic rock, and pop set him apart when he left One Direction to begin his solo career, becoming a musical force to be reckoned with. He performed his pop hit "Sign of the Times" while backed up by a full band. Styles stunned the audience, infusing every word with meaning and emotion. He took the stage again for his second song, "Ever Since New York." Styles knocked it out of the park with his impeccable range and heart-wrenching delivery, proving he is much more than a one-hit-wonder.

Fallon's monologue showcased his natural talent for showmanship as he talked about his return to the show and cable television. He joked around with members of the audience, continuing his tradition of creating unforgettable interactions with fans. The monologue was both charming and humor-filled, and Fallon once again demonstrated his enormous skill as a host.

Another notable sketch was "Basketball Scene," which portrayed a high school basketball drama complete with all the subtle nuances - the benchwarmers, the scorer's table, and the referees. The sketch took a turn as the referee (Fallon) suddenly goes full-out Karate Kid, breaking out moves and flashing his powerful karate kick. The sketch is a classic example of one of the show's fundamental core values: comedic unpredictability.

Fallon featured in "Take Me Back" with cast members McKinnon and Strong, where the three played washed up 80's music stars trying to revive their careers with the title song. Fallon nailed his character, embracing the outrageous persona with ease and clever improvisation. It was a pleasant throwback to Fallon's past hit sketches and served to remind fans of how much they had enjoyed his previous episodes.

The highlight of the show's second half came when Fallon featured in the hilarious "Civil War Soldiers." Fallon played a Union Army General doing everything possible to keep his men relaxed, playing party games, and sharing jokes in the trenches. The sketch was a standout, delightfully comical, and a nod to the show's historical themes.

Overall, the 42nd season's 18th episode of Saturday Night Live, with "Jimmy Fallon / Harry Styles" was one of the season's best. Fallon brought his unmatched hosting talents to the show, making every sketch he performed in one to remember. The night's musical guest, Harry Styles, showcased his talents without question, proving himself as a solo artist. The cast and writers brought the show's classic unpredictability and solid comedy. With Fallon's return, fans were thrilled, and this episode is a must-watch for anyone looking for a good laugh.