Team, or Time-Bomb?

 

Well, wasn’t this episode a packed bundle? It’s boys versus girls in this fan fracas.

Let’s get down to it.

Leonard, Sheldon, Raj, and Howard take on Comic Con! I’m glad they’re branching into this fanboy arena—the time and effort put into cosplays goes largely ignored. Still waiting to see how they treat the practice in the next half hour.

“What was that for?” “To show people when they don’t believe me.”

-- Penny and Leonard

Perhaps I’m a bit biased myself, but Penny, Amy, and Bernadette’s brunch scene seemed a bit canned. Unless CBS’ made a parody of their comic-con diatribe, their whole speculation felt trope filled. Then again, shouldn’t I have guessed it was parody from the start, if indeed it was?

Though the comic-book store venture to follow wasn’t as bad as I’d thought it’d be. In fact, Penny and Stewart noted what I’ve noticed to be on the minds of most fans everywhere, following his movies and The Avengers: Thor IS hot.

I’m certainly of the opinion the girls needed to lighten up a bit—the photo-shoot scene was adorable. Sans carjacking, of course.

“The only thing left to do now is assign blame. Nice going!”

-- Sheldon to Raj

At the same time, as the episode continues I recognize CBS execs know very well what they’re doing, as evidenced by the way the girls argued this time in the same way the boys argue each and every show. I liked that the network showed transition, added a bit of reality to the sitcom. There are many people in this world, after all!

Overall I enjoyed the flipside-style episode: the carjacked comic-con goers get a dose of  “street” smarts and the girls find their inner nerd. Because, in the paraphrased words of author John Green, what is a nerd but one whom gets really excited about something they love? May the nerds inherit the earth!

The Decoupling Fluxuation

I don’t actually recall recapping this episode in full yet. In the good way, not the UTI way.

Here we see a Penny having second thoughts about Leonard…right? It sounds like she needs a bit of spark in her love life if she’s going to stick with the scientist—or it’s Splitsville again. Not necessarily Leonard’s fault. Penny just might require a little more punch, a little less…physics. Hopefully Leonard can take the hint by the end of the episode.

Now that we know Bernadette and Amy don’t sympathize. And, uh, feel a bit fiery on their own, without her help.

While Howard’s stuck taking care of “meteor showers” in space, and Stewart takes over the Wolowitz role in the scientists’ camp, Amy informs Sheldon about the “decoupling” dilemma. Suddenly, we have another episode where Sheldon struggles with a secret, Penny playing the focus once more.

But when Leonard proves to be “good people,” Sheldon faces additional secret-keeping moral qualms. Especially since Leonard’s one of the few remaining faithful constants Sheldon knows.
Much more stable than the Transformers; literally and figuratively, especially when Sheldon’s using the allegory.

Kept up by the inner turmoil behind the secret, Sheldon pays Penny a visit to discuss Leonard’s positive traits. You know. Because “she was up.” As a fan of homeostasis, he feels the need to inform her she should continue seeing Leonard, regardless of her feelings for him. His words. Though I did have a huge awww moment over Sheldon’s last request. Sometimes Dr. Cooper really pulls through.

On the flipside, near literally, Howard faces the tortures of acting space-chimp. Bernadette suggests the never-fail tactic, berating, “being mean is lame. What’s cool is being nice!” If anything, the attempt could become more Youtube fodder.

Sheldon later prods Leonard to girl-scope with Raj and Stewart, trying to sneakily adjust him to the idea of breaking up with Penny. Unfortunately, he demonstrates his point with another “hulking” allegory.

By the end of the episode, Penny decides to keep things…homeostasis.  
At least it’s cute when she tries, right?

The Jinx

I had to sit and plan how I was going to give this entire, stress-packed episode the attention it deserved, and not make it entirely about the massive plot twist at the end.

So I’ll be recapping this Christmas special by character. ‘Tis the season:

Ted: Ted’s architectural “more than a building” wonder is opening on the Manhattan skyline, and he decides to prove to his old professor, Prof. Finnick, that he became an architect after all. Unfortunately, the old Professor’s untimely words—“You’ll never be an architect”—remain unchanged. But this ties into the hinge of the episode, The Pit Person: everyone has that one person they’d hold captive in their basement pit, as in Silence of the Lambs.
More fortunately, Ted realizes the only person he pitted in his mind was himself; he broke free from his worries by leaving the adamant Professor alone.

Marshall and Lilly: Marshall and Lilly brave their old “Hackamigo,” their almost-literal Pit Person, and realize they missed out on the opportunity to have a really great friend. Talking about passing up first judgments, they realize on their first night away that they’d rather a quiet evening with Marvin over any 24-hour date planned to the minute.

Robin: Robin finally pulls herself out of her own pit—mostly—when she resists firing Patrice, given the opportunity. She admits it’s hard seeing her and Barney together, and Patrice accepts the news with nothing less than a forthcoming hug. But more on that in just a bit.

Barney: Once he overcame his jinx, Barney broke the news (I just realized, with someone’s own engagement ring, no less!) to Ted that he’d be proposing to Patrice. If you all were anything like me, you’d be just a bit heart-shattered and confused right now. Though we get our fair explanation when--

Robin and Barney: --when these two lovebirds get engaged at the end of the episode! The grandest part of my whole night! I can’t express how much I rooted for these two—I commend the series writers for being rightful teases. Barney pulled his most elaborate—and final—play ever when he proposed to Robin. Sure, they might argue and fight from time to time, but they both know that won’t keep them from each other in the end. They’re going to be each other’s wingman for life.

In a few words, a hundred words or so over thus far (sorry)—best. Episode. Ever.

For the Marriage

“You see, I have to play Dungeons and Dragons. For the marriage.”

So begins the Big Bang Theory Christmas special, where our scientists break their Saturday commitments with their significant-others for an “epic” night of Dungeons and dragons. Out of the frying pan, into the fire, am I right?
Kidding, kidding. Though, regardless of which dungeon they choose for the evening, the girls find their own method of retaliation. Sweetness, and Santa, abound.

I can appreciate the nerdy twist CBS gave the seasonal episode. While it didn’t shock me in the slightest Sheldon didn’t care for Christmas, the Yuletide D&D was a nice surprise! Leonard put a lot of care into giving back a game for his friends, a bold act for one without very many, or merry, Christmases themselves.

In the meantime, the ladies (and Raj, for lack of a “resurrection rod”) opted for a “girl’s night, girl’s night!” out on the town in their best and brightest. I don’t know about the rest of you, but I felt the one-on-one moment between Raj and our femme fatales was a long time coming. I about cheered when Penny made the last-minute turn-around.

Despite the unexpected dream-sequence ending (not the series’ first), Sheldon, and a few other cast notables, found their own brand of polishing Christmas cheer. Sheldon revealed why he held Good Claus Santa in such contempt, even through three whole rounds of Good King Wenceslas. Raj learned a lesson while out with the girls in behavior and camaraderie while bonding with Amy over what it means to be alone—and what to look for in “together.”
And Leonard learned the true meaning of Dungeons and Dragons, along with perhaps not opting out on his girlfriend next time.

With just a few more days to the anticipated holidays, and several days into Howard’s Hanukkah, CBS chooses this particular brand of humor to wish you all a safe and sound season of joy.

“It’s a game of the imagination, Leonard. Paint a picture.”

-- Sheldon Cooper, as played by Jim Parsons, multi-nominee for best lead actor in a comedy series!

Legen--wait for it--merry!

I’ve noticed an HIMYM episode trend lately: funny, funny, funny, leaving the blogger shocked. In the time it took to discover what Marshall, Lilly and Robin were doing in closets, we leapt to the predictable, the problem, and the pleading.

Unless I was the only one pleading: pleading for Barney and Robin to get back together before the end of this series. I still hold hope.

We lead the episode with the overarching problem of Ted Mosby’s things. Or, they would be his things, PROPERTY OF TED MOSBY and all, if they weren’t in the corners of his friend’s apartments and the pockets of Robin’s purses. Rest assured, every pivotal tool and trashcan sports the claim, respected or not.

Speaking of trashcan—an actual trashcan, more to come later—Robin becomes fed up with the Patrice and Borrow-ney’s relationship, determined to get Barney the “help” (she thinks) he needs. Of course, her plan also entails showing Patrice The Playbook; all Barney’s tips and tricks to sleep with women. Thusly, she unscrews the bolts to Barney’s door (screwdriver PROPERTY OF TED MOSBY) and finds her way to all the classic tomes…except The Playbook.
In case anyone was wondering, The Bro Code is beneath the samurai sword cabinet, and David Lee Roth’s autobiography is behind the Carter poster. I know I embraced the news.

Meanwhile, Marshall fields discovering his mother and Mickey, Lilly’s father, began dating over the course of her stay. While he battles with his logic and gag reflex in his closet, we discover Lilly finds refuge from her crowded apartment in Barney’s own…where she runs into Robin, hiding from Barney and Patrice’s very merry tree-decorating date. Hence, the three—the thoroughly grossed-out Marshall, and Robin and Lilly—stuck in well-suited closets.

As for the jaw dropper? Patrice finding The Playbook Robin succeeded in leaving on Barney’s bed…and Barney proving his new leaf by burning it in a trashcan (PROPERTY OF TED MOSBY). I couldn’t believe what he was doing even as I saw the flames rise. What gives? I saw the pages burning, but sensed Barney and Robin’s future burning, instead.

Maybe now Robin would treat Patrice a little better. Or is that asking for too much?

Turtle Power!

Sheldon might put the "fun" in "funeral," but he didn't kill any of his jokes (or my side-busting) with this new episode of Big Bang Theory. A lot of the cast came together this time, in pairings we don’t often see in the series. Of a more ground-breaking fashion, Howard and Bernadette’s father, his father-in-law. Of a risqué nature, akin to Two Broke Girls, Sheldon and Amy.
Of a gross kind, Howard and “the worm.”

In an effort to find common ground between Howard and his father-in-law, Bernadette proposed a fishing trip between the two. Perhaps they’re not leaves off the same branch, but the “father-and-son” duo have one switch in common: their wives. Even the big-man astronaut gets an accented snap every once in awhile, proving everyone has their shining badge; Howard’s might be his career, and Bernadette’s father’s might be his strength and intimidating nature.

Astronaut training apparently didn’t develop the type of skill and steady hand to hook a worm, however. Sure, keep yourself from getting airsick, but almost lose your lunch over gutting a fish. The “manly” Penny can’t help but acknowledge the friends’ off-kilter variety of support: "Cheerleading. Way to man things up."

Pre-memorial service, Sheldon finds Amy Farrah Fowler sick in a bathrobe and, after some relationship-agreement wheedling, remembers its his duty to take care of his girlfriend (with some uncharacteristically sweet words, I might add). However, Sheldon’s naiveté gets the best of him, as his feel-better methods tend toward the more…physical. As do his punishment methods.

But I won’t delve into the juicy details for anyone who hasn’t seen the show yet!  Just leave the article well aware Amy finds herself a particularly speedy recovery, placebos notwithstanding.

I privately hope they go more into Howard’s own family life in later episodes, after his father revelation. Until then, however, be curious about--or rest assured you don’t share—the other brainiacs’ eclectic parents.

Crawl, you son of a me!

It’s the holiday season…and that means more clothing from Barney’s entrepreneurial line, of course. From the man you get your suitjamas and duck ties, Barney Stinson brings you…brobibs. For your business-casual, preppy, and “brobin Williams” looks!
And then there was the thing about Ted missing a project in life, Robin not getting what she wanted, and Barney and Patrice, but. Those come second to the brobibs.

Yet, even brobibs don’t quite top the very end of the episode, where we have another “a few years later” sneak peek. More on that in a minute.

After lamenting many an episode ago Ted didn’t have any “firsts” to his name—besides convincing Marshall to date Lily, a pretty important first—Ted redeems himself by witnessing many of baby Marvin’s own “firsts.” Unfortunately, these were sans Lily and Marshall…repeatedly. Such instances included a camera mishap and Santa misfortune.

Meanwhile, Robin finds herself in the trap of wanting what she can’t have, because Barney had the “last word” at the close of their relationship.
Uh, “relationship.”
After plowing through several plans (in delightful script font, I might add) to get her Barney-fix just one more time, she discovers he truly seems to have moved on…right over to Patrice. Finally. Someone asks Patrice!

Which leaves us with the episode’s closer. Ted makes sure there aren’t any grudges for taking Marvin’s first “meet with Santa,” and Lily and Marshall promise. Until, that is, we flash-forward and see Ted leaving his own daughter in the care of Aunt Lily and Uncle Marshall…to which his first is re-stolen in kind. Quaint, but that doesn’t answer the burning question: who is the mother? When will we meet her?

Ehem. I might take an HIMYM break for tomorrow’s program schedule…or re-watch the entire season one more time. Either way, I certainly can’t take my mind off the program. Until next Monday!

A Nice Touch

Life-changing moments in Big Bang Theory, continued (from some other place one lists life-changing moments in Big Bang Theory): Sheldon owns another spot. Even by the conclusion of this episode.
Sound the alarm…or the car-horn.

Sprinkled between the mummies-versus-zombies debate, Howard comes to his friends about his brand new car, kept in parking spot 294. News to us, and the rest of the scientists, however, is that this happens to be Sheldon’s spot; for location, shade, and one “delightful squirrel.”

When Howard and Sheldon really dive into their rut, Bernadette and Amy discover they can’t remain impartial on the issue. But fighting it out—in many ways, I noticed, with much harsher sentiments than either of their husbands—both revealed the ladies’ true colors and brought them closer together in the end. Evidently, Penny’s true color is purple, given the state of her nose. Hope she’s doing okay.

I loved the parallels in this episode best—even Leonard and Penny seemed to have reflecting roles, save that Leonard was spared the brunt of a coffee-can full of coins. At least everyone on both sides knew when enough was enough; even if it took crushed Benadryl and Raj playing mediator to do so.

Another highlight of the episode: did anyone notice Sheldon’s 73 t-shirt? He wore it following stealing Howard’s Iron Man collectible mask. After getting a hold of it in the shop, all you have to do is find the mask, and you too can be all set for Comic Con.

To which I leave you with the episode’s best quotes, instead of a dry-cleaner’s ticket:

“I always listen to myself. It’s one of the great joys of my life.”

-- Sheldon

“Payback. It truly is the B-word, isn’t it?”

-- Sheldon

“Which sounds dirty but I didn’t mean it that way!”

-- Bernadette

“Freakin’ pigs!”
-- Amy

“FYI if you wear that into a bank, they WILL tackle you into the ground.”

-- Sheldon

Until Thursday!

Overruled: Take It Off

There’s a name for a story-within-a-story, or play-within-a-play. Akin to Marshall telling the story of his Trial to the panel, while Ted also tells the story of Marshall’s Trial to his children. Unfortunately, only a few names stand out fresh in my mind: Bro-beans. “Nicest Hotel Guest.” Baby-hands.

Readers: the latest episode of How I Met Your Mother.

Marshall soon discovers, while preparing a case against his former law-school friend Brad, he has to bring the burn against the likes of actor Joe Manganiello and the episode’s namesake: the carefully-allotted, all female jury.
And one delighted judge.
Brad’s below-the-belt tactic makes Marshall’s tactful, cute approach (no, literally, he brought a baby duckling to the case…quack) look grim; yet, over-reachers always over-reach. While filming a shoot on the polluted Frog Lake to support his case for Gruber Pharmaceuticals, Brad develops the very skin rash Marshall claims stemmed from the pollution itself. Marshall won his case for his career…but not the lawsuit amount he envisioned.

However, he won the war via several other battles. First, he got his old bro-beans back by reminding him just how important standing up for the little-guy remained in his life. I think we’ll see Brad again as a re-appearing feature to Marshall’s law firm. Second, Marshall realized himself better suited to be the man making the tough—but fair—calls. He story-tells throughout his appeal for judgeship.

As for the other four friends? While observing Marshall’s career making-or-breaking case, they both take in the courtroom atmosphere and reflect on their own raucous teen years. In an effort to prove who’s the most “badass,” they try and outdo one another with outstanding after outstanding (and…inflated) story.
For the third consecutive episode in a row, the program ended with the highly anticipated height of Barney and Robin’s relationship revelation. I might have been less than thrilled that Barney called off the chase for Robin’s heart, but I still hold out hope. What did “huh” mean, Robin? What did it mean?!

While the rest of you on the internet continue your cyber-Monday shopping, I’ll be reading more reviews and waiting, of course, for next Monday’s episode. See you then!

“I…I can’t do this.”

This episode felt a little in-the-wind for me (no, not going to make an awful Brad pun here), but I did appreciate the brand-new addendums to the gang’s regular shenanigans. I think these have their rightful spots in HIMYM history: the “Stamp of Approval,” Dishwalla, Doctor X, college days. And apparently, Barney’s hitherto, but perhaps assumable, association with strip clubs.
But we’ll get to that later.

Barney self-fived himself through a clever run of strip-club hunting, once the Lusty Leopard shut its clientele and left Barney to consider his other, local options. While he did go with another front-runner, he discovered a lot about himself along the way. One: that even heartless-he is susceptible to charity and the well-meaning hearts of the elderly. As is Robin. Two: that he’s the LeBron of strip clubs New York-over. Three: That Robin isn’t ready to re-progress with their relationship, even though he’s clearly still in love with her.
Wait. That’s not funny. That’s really, really sad. Excuse me while I find a new Kleenex box.

Onto Ted and Lily, where Lily proves she beat Ted at his own “Stamp of Approval” game, contrary to his rickety memory. Glad he kept his Doctor X tapes (despite their record of Ted’s “uncool” college years); otherwise, his recollections would have been shaky enough to ignore his only, yet most important, SoA: convincing Marshall to keep seeing Lily in the first place. Nailed it, Ted.

Marshall finally gets a cliffhanger in his own right this episode, where reuniting with his former friend Brad leaves him in the courtroom dust—with his distrustful boss. The next episode means the difference between the best career move of Marshall’s life (that we know of) and returning home unemployed. The rest simply remains to be seen.

I want Marshall to pull through, as I’m sure the rest of you do, too, but I am curious about what life will bring him without the restraints of an office…and a new baby to boot. Will we see a bit of Barney and Robin revival? Will Ted toss those Doctor X tapes after all?
Until next Monday, and a happy Thanksgiving from How I Met Your Mother!

I’ll never get to 43 again!

For lacking a Bernadette and Amy, this episode of Big Bang Theory still proved to be the cleaner, quainter, and on the whole, more progressive episodes we’ve seen this season. Leonard finds love (and that he’s more attractive than he realizes), Penny finds emotions, Sheldon finds clarity, and Raj and Howard scare themselves silly.

…Sounds fun.

When Sheldon’s done doodling a wormhole on the edge of his napkin at lunch, his friends realize he takes up twenty minutes each day a week locked in a basement doing something with the letter 43. I personally would have been more invested in Raj and Howard’s search effort if I weren’t so offended Raj got the Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy number wrong. 42! The answer is 42, how does one not know that? Regardless, I’m glad they brought the wormhole joke full circle—no pun intended. Maybe.

Tell you what, claps for Sheldon. When he tells off Raj and Howard for spying, he’s the most concise and pure I’ve seen Dr. Sheldon Cooper in a VERY long time.

Meanwhile, Penny gains a school project partner and Leonard gains jealousy on his shoulder. Jealousy is a clouding judgment; it doesn’t let you see when someone else might be knocking on your door (Alex, better watch yourself). For all the bickering and low-brow and back-and-forth this episode, however—I seriously cringed over Leonard’s gang effort—the snuck-in “I love you” socked me in the stomach. I’ll just sit over here and make believe the crying meant something good. I wish it did; the scenario was harder for me to read, but I guess we’ll learn all about that next Thursday.

Tonight’s quotables are:

“That’s just the tip of the sadness iceberg.”

-- Leonard

“Corduroy makes too much noise, and I need to find quieter pants.”

-- Alex

“What is 43, besides my mom’s neck size?”

-- Howard

And we now have a fast and easy way to describe Leonard Hofstadter’s positive attributes to outsiders:

Ø  Taste in friends

Ø  Good sleeper

Ø  Buys the grapes Sheldon likes

Is There Another Architect?

Architects not fixing, lawyers not managing, people both breaking and reassembling connections. Or, more like, makeups and breakups. Splits.

Banana splits.

However you want to string together this episode’s key events, a few highlights made me laugh too loudly for the time of night. Pretty sure I almost threw my computer mid-sentence a couple times.

Lilly started the show with the makings of a Reasons Not To Have Sex list, the two starters being 1. Taking care of a baby and 2. Having a pulled groin ligament. Never mind minor-league basketball, pay more attention to Nadia and her pet snake.

Nick and Robin’s conflicts come to a head, a paycheck, and a confession, by the end of the half-hour. Now that Nick is all bark and no bite, Robin realizes his bark lacks more than a little substance. Barney gives her this ultimatum: break up with Nick that evening, before his injury heals, or he’ll send an automated invite to her feared stalker/fangirl/co-worker Peatrice.

I personally was overjoyed by Peatrice’s cameo. While I pitied the worker initially, I can sympathize with Robin after hearing the woman’s excitable phone call at the end of the episode—you can imagine her voice practically before she opens her mouth.

Do I sense a Barney and Robin couple-reunion on the horizon?! I kept going back and forth and, like Robin, thought Barney sounded a little too convincing for his own good, despite all his impassioned-speech practicing.

We concluded the “autumn of breakups” with the T-Squares, Splitsville, time management skills, and the still-stunning feat of Marshall bending a metal bar with his hands. He may have finally found quality time with Lily, but I’d be the last to make him stop his workouts. Nice change, family man.

“But I could not stop loving [Robin] any more than I can stop breathing.”

-- Actual words from the mouth of Barney Stinson

Fun With Flags

Amy: “It’s called ‘Fun With Flags.’ They’re not at half-mast, nobody died, let’s keep it upbeat.”

Pretty sure Sheldon’s web-based show (does anyone else recall an earlier reference to the breakthrough?) could have been a suitable title for this episode, with a few tweaks. Fun With Sheldon. Fun With Moving. Fun With Tea.

Amy might be neurotic and uptight, but she doesn’t hold her ground dating Sheldon Cooper for nothing. Sheldon fails (in true Texas fashion) to defend her honor the first time when she and Will Wheaton argue over directing. He later fraternizes with the enemy, while remaining characteristically oblivious of Amy’s mood. When he does eventually lament to Penny about the situation—and when chamomile tea fails to calm his nerves, so Penny recommends tea of the “Long Island” variety—a boost of reality and alcohol-blood levels give him the kick in the pants he needs to fight for his “lady-folk.” Not so much for retaining his dinner.

 Meanwhile, Howard Wolowitz finally moves out of his mother’s house. At first. After spending the episode going back and forth between his anxiety and Bernadette’s understandable insistence, I found myself shocked to see the gutted second floor bedroom. Then, touched when I heard the magic trick story and truth behind his attachment to his mother. She needed him like he needed her.

I’m not sure whether or not Howard will stay out of the next for good, or whether Sheldon’s learned not to take tea advice (though he’s free to take girl advice) from Penny, but I found myself pretty sure of tonight’s quotables:

Amy: “I’m mad at you, Sheldon.”
Sheldon: “Hmm. Eat one of your Luna bars.”

Howard: “She patted me on the back and I happened to burp.”

Penny:  “[Long Island iced tea has] calmed the pants off me a couple times.”

Sheldon: “[Amy’s] a unique blend of Saint and squirrel.”

Sheldon: “I’ll tell you…I’m from Texas. Need I say more?”

Bon Apa-Sweet

 Was this episode worth the wait? Oh please. Is the French Horn blue? Is Nick the Bad Boy Chef?

 Besides Nick’s cable-access cooking show, the episode ignited all of my feelings for Robin and Ted, Robin and Barney, Barney and Brover and, lastly, Victoria. But we’ll get to all of that in just a moment.

I don’t think anyone is floored that Ted can’t get the hint. Poor Ted. Poor kind, sweet, naïve Ted, who just wants a woman to grow old with. Unfortunately, that woman won’t be Victoria. I’m still holding out hope it’s Robin. Also that Robin and Barney reunite. My feelings are complicated.

           

Episode live-commentary: “She’ll never be in love with me. She’ll never be my wife. She’ll never be the person I grow old with. Victoria…Victora could be.”
-- Ted Mosby. Spoiler alert, she probably isn’t.

Barney discovers the meaning of a “true” wingman. Unlike wingmen, dogs don’t possess wings, but they’re awfully cute and do come to some small service at the end of the day. Literally, for Barney “Bro” Stinson.

Now, am I missing a loop here, or does Marshall’s new hairstyle and collared-sweater attire come as a surprise to anyone else? Lilly’s making an honest man out of him, so it seems. Well. “Honest” and “man” are left up to debate after this episode’s happenings.

Episode live-commentary: “Marshall, why is [your Inner Goddess] Southern?” “Shh, don’t break the connection.”
-- Ted and Lilly, while Marshall was offering The Help.

While I pick my jaw up off the floor after the drastic endscene, I leave you all tonight with the best of: Nick’s catch-phrase search.

“All aboard the chow-chow train!”

“Oh my gosh, who’s ready to nosh?”

“And now, who’s ready to eat my meat? Oh, come on!”

“They’re gonna be bon apa-sweet! Damn.”

Sorry Nick. Not much can really compete with bam!

Impressions

Impressions—assumptions, judgments, and literal impersonations—ruled Big Bang Theory tonight in a more plot-moving manner than the last couple episodes or so. Who else was shocked to hear Penny going back to school?! I hope she finishes the season on a degree track—even if I puzzled over what this could mean for the future of Big Bang.

Either way, I’ll dissect the episode into favorite moments based on all the ways we see “impressions.” Not counting being personally impressed.

Sheldon’s first-impression of Steven Hawking takes a slip off the bunk-bed slide when he discovers the professor’s poor losing side. At first I thought some random player stole Steven Hawking’s name and that would be the end of it, but with the episode’s progress came new questions: does Steven Hawking just have an account, or a whole Facebook? Doesn’t that make you wonder? Not to mention, who took Dr. Hawking as the smack-talking type? Although the look on Leonard’s face after each “neener-neener” made staying the last two minutes of the episode completely worth it.

Penny shakes the show moreso when she uses—and abuses—Leonard’s over-reaching need to help. No, he wasn’t right to read her paper behind her back; I actually spent that part of the episode yelling at him to stop through my TV. Penny, likewise, shouldn’t have wrangled Amy and Bernadette into helping her redo her paper, no matter how much Amy reveled in the possible popularity.

Actual impersonations peppered the half-hour the most thoroughly. Some returns to old favorites—Raj’s American accent and Howard’s Steven Hawking impression—along with new attempts—Howard’s Indian accent and Penny’s mimicry of Leonard. Why copying became the name of the game, I’m not sure, but it added new, subtle dimensions to an already incredible episode. I wish I could say the same of the confusion behind the name of THIS game: “Words With Friends.”

Recap: The Middle Earth Paradigm

This is Halloween, this is Halloween…though the inspiration for more sitcom fun (and one last All Hallows Eve article before I turn in the cape) came from a Big Bang Theory rerun reminding me why I started watching the show: the Middle Earth Paradigm. AKA, the season 1 Halloween special. It may not be Thursday (though I’ll be right back where it all started tomorrow, too), but I have to share my love for this particular episode favorite.

Getups let the characters’ true geekiness shine. Up to now, we’d heard them talk the talk; in this episode, they walk the walk. First, they all dress up as The Flash before agreeing upon different costumes for Penny’s party. I’m beyond how they came up with so many options, so quickly—unless we’re supposed to assume they had their choices stuffed in their closets somewhere. Though, I suppose there IS evidence to the latter: we see Sheldon use the same Flash outfit come New Years several episodes (and seasons) later, and a certain sister comments more than once on Koothrappali’s own costuming habits.

More than that tangent, this is the first episode where, much to Leonard’s suspicions, we see a true milestone in his and Penny’s future relationship. He stands his ground to Kurt, her ex, in a manner much-reflecting how he “rolls in the shire.” It isn’t the bravest thing to lift up a hobbit for show of strength; it takes guts to tell a girl you like to stop kissing you, just because she’d been drinking. Good on you, Leonard!

And how about a point for Raj; he finally gets his despite his social anxiety. I suppose Halloween would be the day for the unexpected…no matter the circumstances.

Whose costume was your favorite? Whose was your favorite since? Or, if anyone read the articles prior, which character would YOU go as for Halloween—or which costume would you rather steal?

Threat Of The Baby-Zombies

The episode focusing on the when…and the where…of it all. Even if Lily and Marshall couldn’t grasp either concept in their sleep-deprived state. I found, first thing, I could relate; sleep-deprived work shifts, classes, hours at the library. The last four years of my life. Everyone has those days…or weeks.

Regardless, the episode and its subsequent pairs churned out many one-liners for my wisecracking enjoyment:

“This calls for some champagne!”

“You know, the leaving-someone-at-the-altar note?” (Because everyone knows about THAT note.)

“Challenge accepted!”

“622 West 14^th Street.” (This one was sweet and revealed that Barney does possess something heart-like.)

Digesting the episode in its entirety, I bounced around between more than a few polar-opposite ideas. For example: does anyone else now have the urge to Photoshop Barney riding a Grizzly bear down a church isle? Akin to how he replaced Robin with a tiger?

Or the cuteness of the line, “You’re not stealing me. I’m choosing you,” mixed with the inevitable knowledge Victoria probably isn’t…the German phrase for lifelong treasure of fate. I literally thought, dun dun dun.

A whole other branch of characters went in and out this go-round—the fiancé, Nick and his emergency-abs, and…drumroll please…the umbrella-toting “mother,” Ted’s future, lasting, bride-to-be. Not only do I want the final monologue in its entirety written somewhere (again, banking on the internet here), the particular line, “It’s something that happens instantaneously,” stuck out to me strongest. Will Ted know instantly when he sees his “treasure?” Or, for a plot twist, has he already seen her? What if we’ve known all along?

The episode was an excellent recap for the remainder of the series, for sure…and a reminder than I sensed potential stormy Robin and Barney waters in the future. Not the kind due to Hurricane Sandy, at least. Stay dry and stay hopeful until the new episode next week!

Ooh, Halloweenies!

Well, if this wasn’t the episode to floor all episodes. Break fast, audience, and don’t be tricked into getting out those Justice League costumes again—it’s Halloween in Santa Monica for the Big Bang Theory!

Sheldon and Amy spend the episode going back and forth over notable and noteworthy “couples costumes” which, according to Dr. Cooper, are “one of the few benefits of being in a relationship.”
While I know a few sympathetic people, I can say I sided with Amy and her disposition on the matter; Raggedy Ann and Andy would have been adorable! Nevertheless, I pride them on their compromise—even if Sheldon loathes admitting Amy doesn’t care for Star Wars.

Though Howard shone brighter than stars when he, once again, faced a wall with the others over the space topic. Again. And again. I felt bad for the little astronaut! This time, we discovered his true concerns on the matter: without his spacetime glory, he’d be the plain-old Howard Wolowitz once more. The endearing lines to follow fast became my favorite:

Bernadette: “Plain old Howard Wolowitz is the best guy I know.”
Howard: “You’re just saying that.”
Bernadette: “No I’m not. I married him—on purpose!”

Lastly, I think something other than a prop would ring my neck if I didn’t comment on Leonard and Penny…and the laboratory. I have a half-page of notes and quotes, though I think I can summarize all our sentiments with a few observations.

One: If Leonard isn’t careful, he’s going to knock something over.

Two: Theory of Relativity.

I’d be perfectly happy with never hearing a repeat of Einstein’s accent in that context ever again. However, I did appreciate the special effects in Leonard’s laboratory, even through the ooh-ing and aah-ing laugh track.

The series came full circle with yet another themed party in the comic book store…but what about next week? Or even, next holiday? By the time next episode airs, Halloween will be history. Until then!

Big Bang Theory Recap: Howard's Return

Every episode recap, I take down a list of my favorite quotes. Among this episode’s highlights are:

            “You had a good run, Fake Wolowitz!”

            “Nothing with Quarks.”

            “Casper, the alcoholic ghost?”

            “No good, Sheldon doesn’t float.”

And my personal favorite,

            “You’re either gonna stick your face in that pie, or I’m gonna stick that pie in your face?”

Which reminds me: who else likes to see Leonard a little bit…angry?

The Big Bang theory didn’t disappoint and certainly didn’t leave us hanging with six miles to go. It started off with the rattle and crash of a pod coming into orbit—literally!

Between making sad faces over Howard dancing around from place to place upon his less-than-warm welcome home (more on that later), I can say about half his misfortune depended on his friends’ rudeness. Half depended on Bernadette’s sudden illness. We all know what it feels like to be struck with a sudden cold—or worse—on the eve of a huge event. We needed something relatable strung into the show; not everyone can empathize with a “boy-sized hero” returning from orbit!

Raj offended less than the other five, though he did the most to pique my curiosity: what’s the deal between him and Fake Wolowitz? We all know he and Stuart Sussman hit it off since the premiere episode, but how far does their new friendship take them? Something to sink your teeth into for next week.

That, along with the the “boys vs. girls” competition! Besides how shocked I was when they turned away our home-again rocket man, I laughed the hardest during Penny and Sheldon’s wrestling performance. I would elaborate…but I think I like leaving the scene vague, for anyone that HASN’T seen the episode yet, a little bit better.

All I know is, Howard’s friends better have a huge apology waiting, and soon. Can’t wait for next Thursday! Be thinking about your Big Bang Theory Christmas gifts—we start when Hallmark starts!

Are You Ready?

Welcome to, How I Met Your Mother: Who Wants to be a Godparent recap! I am your host, Cool TV Props Blogger (“Blogger” for short), and I’ll get started after this word from our sponsors!
…Right then. Here is…the first question.

Question 1: How did Barney Stinson show up dressed to Marshall’s door?

Oh, I’m sorry, the answer was not Arnie Linson. The answer would be…as a bus driver. Although, I’m not sure this would be a couth enough bus driver to take Marshall and Lilly’s kid to school, much less inform them how his parents “died.” Bring on the trips to Amsterdam!

Question 2: What does Ted Mosby use to explain…anything?

That’s right! Robin wins this round—again. The answer was, using Professor Infosaurus. Beat-boxing hand puppet aside, I have to say I felt for the little guy. Or maybe just Ted’s current offspring, who have had to sit through many of the dinosaur’s squeaky sermons, I’m sure.
Does anyone else secretly want one around? No?
I guess we’re lucky enough as it is that Ted doesn’t share the story of how he met his future wife in THAT fashion.

LIGHTNING ROUND: Which decision does Lilly and Marshall make at the end?

Ooh…trick question! Fortunately, you were both right: they revoked the 8-or-higher rule and made Ted, Robin, and Barney the Godparents. Lilly and Marshall were determined as ever to keep the love in the family—and the friendships. How sweet. Now everybody go, awwww.

After I tore myself from the screen, thoughts of Professor Infosaurus, or having Ted be the one to give me ice cream with no sprinkles—okay, sprinkles—I have to say I’m a fan of the episode with the most antics so far. Stay tuned for more to come from Cool TV Props, and maybe an update on future Christmas gift ideas for your Manhattanite.

Blogger, out!