Doyle finally gets some needed character development, The Bachelor Party revealing him to be a sensitive and almost tragic guy who has never come to terms with his own identity. He has hidden depths outside of the quippery and eagerness to have fun, and it suddenly makes him a strong and memorable character. I never quite understood the Doyle love in general, but this episode goes some way in exploring his psyche, and Glenn Quinn is wonderfully natural here. He's been great every week, but the number of varying levels he adds to his performance throughout this episode is really spectacular.The bachelor party itself was a lot of fun, and I enjoyed how the show repeatedly made reference to wacky demonic rituals in such a light and deadpan manner. I think this episode was pretty much the first time the Buffyverse showcased demons that act like entirely ordinary people, creating that morally ambiguous quality that is fast becoming one of the trademarks of Angel. Cordelia and Doyle's burgeoning relationship plays into that, too. This week Cordelia discovers personal growth once again and acknowledges Doyle's endearing qualities. She still doesn't know he's a demon, but it's progress.
It's also worth noting that the script has a bunch of really funny moments. I loved Cordelia bashing Doyle-in-demon-face round the head repeatedly, I loved the scenes in the Straley family home (in particular the 'charades' bluff), and Doyle's reaction to getting locked in that brain box-thing. I disliked this episode on first viewing, but it grew on me here, principally from a character standpoint. The finale is a little long-winded, but its heart is in the right place. B-
Credits
Guest stars Kristin Dattilo (Harriet Doyle); Carlos Jacott (Richard Straley)
Writer Tracey Stern Director David Straiton
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