A Man. And His Blog.

Season 1, Episode 19 (19)
Date of airing: Jun 7, 2007 (NBC)
Rewatched for review: Jan 6, 2012
Number of review in January/2012: 104/114

A very good episode, and honestly, it doesn’t even feel like a part of a multi-episode arc, where all kinds of shit is happening. Instead I had the feeling this episode was written to connect the present storyline with the hostage situation to the flashback storyline with the war against (terrorism in) Afghanistan. I can actually remember that time. Back then, the free-TV premiere of ENEMY OF THE STATE was scheduled, and when the news of the war came, I was actually fearing for not being able to see the movie. You know, I was young, a movie freak, never cared about politics or war. And now, ten years later, I can understand why Matt (Matthew Perry) was unsure of delivering comedy in such a time; wondering if he is ready to poke fun, when there’s a war happening, and when soldiers are about to lose their lives and families are losing their sons and daughters. In addition, the plot was connected well to Matt as a character: his feelings about God and religion, his endless discussion with Harriet (Sarah Paulson) about it (the montage at the end was great), and the final moment, where he literally wanted proof for the existence of God, believing in Harriet for the first time, and, if you will, losing this millennia-long fight between the two.

The present storyline was totally fine with me. I don’t really know if the K&R storyline, as depicted here, can be considered real of some sorts. I’d never imagine for Matt to say “Yes” to giving terrorists a million bucks without hesitating, and I would never imagine for Jack (Steven Weber) to think about giving money away for the rescue of three soldiers. After all, it’s the network’s money – what would people (and advertisers) think when their money was given away to some terrorists for ransom? So, I would actually expect for Jack to decline Mary’s (Kari Matchett) offer, and forgetting all about K&R. But then again, Sorkin wouldn’t have a story, if he thought realistic. And also, the series finale wouldn’t be like this when there wouldn’t be a story.

I wanted to have more from Tom (Nathan Corddry) though. He was crushed, disappointed at the army, mad at the press, happy he still has friends around, and stuff, but this only in, like, three scenes or so – not enough when it comes to me. I would have wished for some emotions from him, showing the family side of the hostage, and how Tom would cope with Captain Boyle (James Lesure) and his kinda-funny approach to the situation, to lighten up the mood (which is understandable, considering the situation, but it was taking away from the drama of the story). Also, I would have wished to see how the other characters cope with the situation. Simon was completely absent, Cal (Timothy Busfield) only had something to say about the success rate of K&R situations, Harriet was praying, and Danny (Bradley Whitford) and Jordan (Amanda Peet) were completely busy with something else. At least this story had some charm again. I just love the two together. Danny doubting the abilities of the doctor (J.D. Walsh), and the engagement at the end – Jordan’s happiness, when she said “I am engaged” while she was rolled into the OR (That’s the best time to pop the question; is a woman in life danger, make her happy again for a short while – excellent writing here). It’s just a shame he wasn’t connected with the story in the theater anymore, was basically cut off from anything else happening in the show. Though it is understandable that he worries about Jordan and the baby, without knowing more than anybody what is actually going on. 8/10

The Captain is here to calm you down

Happy moment right here!