This was at least better than the last couple of weeks. All I want is a slightly outlandish idea, and a story that stems from it. Reflecting the world, or a deeper meaning is fine, but not necessary every time. But a story that goes somewhere... that's all it needs to have.
Whilst coming to terms with the death of his wife, Jason Grant (Damon Wayans Jr.) discovers a scale model of his town in the church storage. Littleton has suffered since the new mayor (David Krumholtz) authorised a bypass motorway that destroyed the passing trade that town received. Grant discovers that any changes he makes to this model are replicated in the real world and soon sets about improving the town as best he can. Until one change has an unforeseen consequences.
So, whilst not being unreservedly brilliant, this is at least fun and understandable. Grant's changes to the town, whilst mysterious to the residents are welcome, with the mayor happy to take whatever credit is offered and Grant happy to get his own back with the help of his pet Tarantula. Until it all falls apart and the town ends up worse off than ever, albeit with the makings of a plan of restitution on the cards. Performances are good, Wayans Jr is a fun lead and David Krumholtz, fresh of an excellent run in "The Deuce" is as snivelling as his money grabbing role requires. There were some fun nods to "Beetlejuice" in the episode, not least the aforementioned spider on the scale model and the bawdy illuminated signage.
Could it have gone deeper, absolutely, been more inventive, yes, but relative to some of the stories in this season I'll settle for passable all day long.