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Post by sbtbfanatic on Jul 13, 2015 15:33:32 GMT
Seinfeld: The PTBN Series Rewatch – “The Masseuse” (S5, E9) Best Character JT: Not the strongest performance of the season for our beloved crew, but I do think Jerry stood out the most. Kramer had a few good spots but Jerry’s delivery and desperation kept this one moving along. Just give Jerome a massage! He is tense! Aaron: Kramer made me laugh the most with his robbing of Jerry’s paper towel, followed by his condemning of the adopted as serial killers. His love for the massages makes it all the more tragic when the reality of life without Jody sinks in. He should have known better than the hook up with one of Jerry’s single serving girlfriends. Poor guy, HE’S BURNED OUT! Andrew: I’ll go with Elaine. That’s partly a vote against the other three, but she does enough to win here. The scene where she is trying to plant the idea of changing his name in Joel’s head is good, and the angry outbursts are always entertaining. And I do love her terrified reaction to Joel coming up behind her, as well as the relieved laughter afterward. Jordan: I suppose I’ll give it to George. His obsession over Jodi not liking him was fun enough, but this is really an episode where the other characters lost this one more than George earned it. I thought Elaine’s name choices were awful, Jerry is always terrible when trying to be funny while shouting and Kramer…well, let’s just say I will have trouble sleeping with the knowledge that adoption breeds serial killers. Is my daughter going to grow up to be a monster? Jason: No one had a stand out performance, but I’ll go with Jerry here. All he wants is a massage from Jodi and she won’t cave. Best Storyline JT: I will go with Little Stuart Rifkin. The writing was strongest here, between Elaine dancing around the subject, the Giants game announcement and the tremendous arguing over names. There was some fun stuff with the massages too, mainly when Kramer and Jerry were going at it. Aaron: I guess Elaine dealing with the serial killer boyfriend who’s too much of a coward to murder people. The reveal at the Giants game was great as was her jump when he was going to strangle her. He was going to kill her right? No one starts intercourse by approaching their partner like a zombie. Andrew: I like George’s storyline the most, if only because it has the most emotional weight to it. There’s really nothing sexier than a woman who openly hates you, is there? Once again, when I find myself identifying with George, I know it’s time to reevaluate my life choices. Jordan: George’s intense desire to get Jodi to like him is really interesting, especially when he’s done nothing wrong to her, so it’s purely a matter of personalities. That George cannot let this go makes for a fun little side story. Unfortunately, I also can’t let go of the idea that sleeping softly downstairs, my little girl is innocent now, but if Kramer’s words are correct, what have I unleashed upon this world? Is the blood of her victims on my hands? Jason: Being from New York, I remember watching the real life Joel Rifkin stuff on the news as it was unfolding. Elaine dating a guy with the same name as a serial killer is freaking brilliant. Ethical Dilemma of the Week JT: I can see why Karen would get so annoyed, but a little part of me thought she could have really tried to better understand George’s plight. If she dug him as much as she claimed to, she should have supported his quest to win Jodi over. Finding a common interest and providing support only brings couples closer. More risotto, waiter! Aaron: Sex versus massage? In the end the sad reality is I can pleasure myself, but I can’t reach around and get the knots out of my back. I would at least like to live in a world where it wasn’t inappropriate for me to demand a massage at least as long as the time we spend doing sex stuff. I can stretch that out if it leads to me being able to sit up straight. Andrew: This is some real straw man shit, but is it OK for Jodi to not give Jerry a massage? Of course it is. Setting aside how gross it is to pressure your girlfriend into doing something she doesn’t want to do, that’s her job, man. I don’t see her asking you to do a stand-up routine in her apartment every night. Not cool, Jerry. Not cool. Jordan: Should I have adopted my daughter, now knowing that she could wind up being a psychotic murderer? When choosing adoption, I thought of it as rescuing a child. Instead, I may have sealed the fate of dozens of lives. Still, she is adorable and says goodbye to her stroller every night, so it’s a fair trade, right? Jason: If you’re dating a masseuse, then massages should be free of charge. I’m sure if you date a dentist, there’s a free cleaning involved. Jodi needs to get over herself and hook Jerry up. Relationship Scale (Scale 1-10) JT: Not feeling the relationships here at all. Jodi was awful across the board, Joel was a whiny bitch and Karen, well I like Karen, I just wish she helped George with his neuroses. Relationship Grade: Remmy/10 Aaron: Why is Elaine dating that bozo? He’s awkward and is clearly a sneeze away from a murder spree. Why is Karen dating George? You know she’s seen him eat at least once. Why is Jerry dating some broad that won’t put out? The real tragedy here is that Kramer loses Jody and will inevitably be driven into Newman’s sweaty palms. Relationship Grade: 0, 4, 3/10 Andrew: I’m glad to see “the risotto broad” return, but George doesn’t seem to share my enthusiasm. And as funny as Jennifer Coolidge is in other stuff, she’s put into a joyless role here. There’s not much to Elaine and Joel’s relationship beyond the name thing; when she’s listing his good qualities, “he’s a good shaver” makes the top three, and that can’t be a good sign. Relationship Grade: Stuart/10 Jordan: George losing Karen, a woman who ACTUALLY liked him, over Jodi, who hated him is such a Costanza move. And boy did Karen like him! In their breakup scene, she’s ready to straddle him…and he’s wearing khakis and a sweater vest. THAT outfit was enough to get her motor running? Bad move, George! Relationship Grade: Sweater vest/10 Jason: Jodi is a Jerry “4” and a total bitch from the get go. Jerry can do way better. Karen gives George another chance and he blows it again. George is wasting his time being upset because Jodi doesn’t like him. Relationship Grade: Stifler’s Mom/10 What Worked: JT: Kramer’s adoption serial killer correlation is great; George’s double date theory is a good one; Jerry’s desperation for a massage is funny in a cringeworthy way, and his eye roll when Jodi goes in for the kill always cracks me up; Poor George just wants to be loved; Elaine trying to Svengali Joel into changing his name was well done; The OJ Rifkin thing is so randomly awesome in retrospect, what are the odds?; Jerry’s delivery of “I don’t like him” is great too; As frustrating as it was to watch, the story of Jodi doling out massages to anyone but Jerry was well worked, almost as well worked as George’s cab hailing techniques; Jerry and Kramer arguing over the massage is one of my favorite scenes of the season; Joel being adopted was a nice touch; Jerry is killing it with the delivery in this one as his “Ask Newman” is tremendous too; The Joel & Elaine name lists were funny; George leaving during making out with Karen to win over Jodi sums up Constanza perfectly; Good for Jerry to tell off Jodi, she sucked Aaron: I love the type of comedy that lets you paint the picture in your own mind. So when George analyzes the night with Jody and Jerry by saying, “When I sent the noodles back for the second time, I think she made a face,” it gives me not only the clear image of an asshole who will never be satisfied with his noodles, but also the crystallization of a prick who has no idea how he comes off. I love that Elaine gives her co-workers about two and a half jokes before she loses it on them. Explosive Elaine is the best Elaine. Of course Jody hates George. If you met George you’d hate him too. It was nice to see how a normal person would react to his obnoxiousness instead of mysteriously dating him. I get a kick out of seeing the birth of moments on Curb Your Enthusiasm so when Elaine decries people named Alex for ahhhing after each sip of a drink the fair menacing visage of Suzie Greene pops into my mind. Andrew: It’s kind of eerie that Elaine suggests “OJ” as a name, less than a year before the murders. Obviously it wasn’t intended as anything, but that scene always sticks in my mind. I enjoyed the Elaine storyline overall, especially the way she goes from gently broaching the name subject with Joel to a screaming fight over how similar “Ellis” and “Alex” are. I enjoy and relate to George’s obsession with needing people to like him, although it’s always frustrating to watch him turn down a woman who is way out of his league. Kramer is pretty underutilized, but “Come on, just look at me. Tell me I’m not Kramer.” is a classic moment. Jordan: I liked Jerry’s constant playing with Jodi’s hands to try and get her to start massaging and hoping that muscle memory would take over. That clip of Lawrence Taylor looking up while Joel’s name is called at the game is hilarious to me for some reason. George fretting over what Jodi may not like about him is good stuff, and I like his casual mention of sending noodles back a second time. Elaine suggesting the name OJ is great, given the circumstances. Deion is funny too, but not as much. And Kramer provides a barrel of laughs, since we all know he’s not right about adopted children growing up to be dangerous killers…right? Jason: When this episode originally aired in November of 1993, Elaine suggesting the name OJ didn’t mean much, but it sure as hell does now. Elaine referring to Karen as the Risotto broad might be the line of the episode. Kramer needing massages because he’s burnt out is the perfect excuse from him. The stock footage of Lawrence Taylor after Bob Sheppard announces Joel’s name over the PA system is a nice touch. Ticket booth guy is a little creepy, but standing behind a ticket window is the best place for him. Jerry’s vomit streak being brought up for the first is a cool moment for die hard fans. What Didn’t Work JT: I want to punch Elaine’s co-workers in the face; Jodi is really unlikeable, almost immediately; Joel is a pussy, this is a bad showing for significant others outside of Karen, but even she has some issues Aaron: How dare they blow their own continuity by saying that Jerry last threw up in 1980. George and Elaine once bonded over said throwing up. That couldn’t have happened, he didn’t know Elaine then. THAT’S ALL THEY HAD! We’re not stupid either, we have attention to detail. So much so that we pick apart each episode in a seemingly endless project. IT’S BECAUSE WE CARE SO MUCH DAMNIT! Also Elaine’s girly begging seemed very out of character. George also got on my nerves in this one. I get him being distracted about her not liking him but to take it to this point? Andrew: I realize just about every Seinfeld plot could be resolved with a little bit of maturity and honesty, but Jerry’s storyline is especially frustrating. Just make an appointment if you want a massage that badly! Maybe the joke is that he wants one for free, but that’s never made clear. The biggest problem here is the creepy scene with Jerry trying to coerce Jodi into a massage. It’s possible there’s a joke to be made here, but staging a sexual assault wasn’t the way to go about it. Jordan: I felt like they went a bit too far with the massage stuff. Jerry trying to get Jodi to rub his shoulders as a start was fine, but the “No means no” line was distasteful, and I’m usually not bothered by anything like that on this show. I also hated Elaine in the name change scene – it’s HIS name, why does she have such a say in it? And why are her names so terrible? Remmy? Joel was right to suggest a beret. Jason: Jodi is the absolute worst. George should have thrown her massage table into oncoming traffic. Ned and Remmy? Come on, Elaine! Does Joel not have a middle name to go by for the time being? Key Character Debuts Joel Rifkin Jodi the Masseuse Iconic Moments, Running Themes & Memorable Quotes – “No I haven’t vomited in thirteen years.” – Jerry “Get out!” – Elaine “Not since June 29, 1980.” – Jerry “You remember the date?” – Elaine “Yes, because my previous vomit was also June 29th… 1972. That’s why during the ’80 vomit, I was yelling to George: “Can you believe it? I’m vomiting on June 29th again.”” – Jerry – “Would you change yours?” – Elaine “f someone asked me nicely. I’m Claude Seinfeld.” – Jerry – “You know why Rifkin was a serial killer? Because he was adopted. Just like Son of Sam was adopted. So apparently adoption leads to serial killing.” – Kramer – “Well it’s like going to Idhao and eating carrots. I like carrots, but I’m in Idhao, I want a potato.” – Jerry – “I tried brushing my teeth by holding the brush and moving my head from side to side. It didn’t work.” – Jerry – “Well maybe you’re not the Dion type. OK then let’s see, let’s see, what do we got? Oh! Oh oh oh! O.J.! O.J. Rifkin! You don’t even use a name, it’s just initials. Oh please please please change your name to O.J.! Please, it would be so great!” – Elaine – “I don’t even know her sister but believe me, if she’s getting traffic tickets, she’s not that good-looking!” – George – “First she sets the mood perfectly with this new age music played over ocean sounds. Then she lays you out on this table, and she proceeds to rub oil over your entire body. And she rubs long… and deep… Jerry, she rubs with love. Every muscles she touches just… ooo-zz-es. Beneath those silky, soft fingers, you can scarcely contain yourself, buddy.” – Kramer – “Why? Why? Look, I paid for her.” – Kramer “Don’t you ever talk about her like that!” – Jerry – “What about my massage?” – Kramer “Ask Newman.” – Jerry – “Ned’s a guy who buys irregular underwear. Next!” – Joel – “Remy Rifkin? Should I get a beret?” – Joel :Oh, Stuart’s a lot better! Little Stuart Rifkin likes to go shopping with his mother.” – Elaine Oddities & Fun Facts – Jerry hasn’t vomited in thirteen years – Legendary announcer Bob Sheppard is doing the public announcing at the Giants game Overall Grade (Scale 1-10) JT: Surprisingly, this may have been my least favorite episode of the season. On paper, and just based off memory, this is a pretty well known offering, so I assumed it would continue the hot streak of season five, but it fell apart fairly quickly. Jodi really sucked and made the episode tough to watch because she just had nothing redeemable going on. The Rifkin stuff was good but probably could have been fleshed out more. Kramer was really funny but only saw limited action. George’s storyline was fairly weak too. There are some laughs here, but it just never seem to kick into gear. Final Grade: 5/10 Aaron:I think all the pieces were here for this one but it didn’t quite click. A few decent sized laughs keeps it out of the basement but it still remains a bit of a miss. It felt a little like the writing was pushing to see how far they could take the characters before they strained believability. They hit the line. This one didn’t feel truthful. Final Grade: 6/10 Andrew: Not one of my favorites. The “Joel Rifkin” plot is pretty memorable, and there are enough good lines to make the episode worth watching, but the massage storyline has always skeeved me out. I guess even a classic season has a dud or two. Final Grade: 5/10 Jordan: This is a classic example of bad timing. If this was a season three episode, it would probably be an 8. But it’s Season Five and they are in a groove of classic episodes, lines and moments. This one had none of those things. It’s not terrible and has some decent parts to it, but I noticed myself checking how much time was left in the episode multiple times. Final Grade: 4/10 Jason: Not too many laughs here and a long 23 minutes. Jodi ranks at the bottom of Jerry’s girlfriend list. Sad to see Karen go, but not Jodi or Joel. Aside from the Joel Rifkin subplot, this episode doesn’t do much for me. Jerry owes it to himself to hit up a massage parlor to release the stress from dating Jodi and perhaps a happy ending. Final Grade: 5/10
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Post by sbtbfanatic on Sept 17, 2015 15:31:54 GMT
Seinfeld: The PTBN Series Rewatch – “The Cigar Store Indian” (S5, E10)
Best Character
JT: Shit if I know. Everyone was awesome. All of them. Jerry, George. Kramer. Elaine. Frank. Estelle. Ricky. Sylvia. Gepetto. Winona. The mailman. Everyone! They all killed it. Perfection.
Aaron: From the moment Frank and Estelle enter their home, George’s life begins to avalanche out of control quicker than Mt Vesuvius genocide (too soon?) What starts as an indictment of the weight of their mail quickly escalates into the hysterical discovery a prophylactic wrapper in their bed. Presumably days later “Petty” Frank Costanza is still mad about Elaine taking HIS TV Guide and is not only harping on it but declaring that she is no longer welcome in his house. Frank’s radiating joy later as he peruses his old “fall previews” with the creepy fuck in the glasses and Estelle’s cock blocking of George at the antiques store lock this one down for the sitcom’s best power couple.
Andrew: I wouldn’t have expected it going in, but I think Jerry is the best character in this episode. As we know, cocky, uncaring Jerry is the best Jerry, but cocky, uncaring, racially insensitive Jerry might be even better. He’s just OK for stretches, but man, does that first scene in Elaine’s apartment make me laugh.
Jordan: I am having a tough time deciding between Jerry and Kramer, so I’ll go with Jerry just because I feel like he’ll get less of these as the show goes on. His complete obliviousness to his own racial insensitivity when he gave Elaine the Indian turned the total opposite by refusing to say words like reservations and scalpers was pretty awesome. Calling Winona an Indian giver at the end was a nice capper.
Jason: How the hell am I supposed to choose from just one person here? The core four all brought their A game. Estelle and Frank are at their best. Ricky, Winona, Sylvia and the Mailman were fantastic. The entire cast wins here!
Best Storyline
JT: Again, all of it. Everything blended in together so beautifully here, everything was linked together and played a role across the board. Brilliant writing, tons of laughs.
Aaron: Kramer’s quest to build the world’s best coffee table book about coffee tables has just the right amount of strangeness and serendipity to make it a classic Seinfeld storyline.
Andrew: You really can’t go wrong here, but I like the coffee table book. This is one of the all-time great C stories, as it’s just absurd enough to work for Kramer, but still a good enough idea that you could imagine it getting published. I’ll always admire a goofy joke with such great staying power.
Jordan: I liked Frank’s missing TV guide and the challenge to get him a copy. The fact that he collects them all (and knows their volume and number) is funny in itself, but it also led to Elaine getting a bouquet of paper, dripped gyro sauce and an Al Roker appearance!
Jason: As good as everything is with George at his parents’ house, I really enjoyed the Indian statue being shuffled around and finally landing in Mr. Lippman’s office. From the antique store, to Jerry, to Elaine, to Kramer, to Lippman. Brilliant.
Ethical Dilemma of the Week
JT: Should Elaine have at least approached a coworker with Kramer’s idea, even if she didn’t go to Lippman directly? I know Kramer can be a bit all over the place and she knows he is a train wreck, but still, at least toss the guy a bone. It was a solid idea and if it pays off, you look like a genius. Pure laziness by Lainey.
Aaron: Have we gone too far with our sensitivity? Imagine; this was someone asking this question in 1994! What would Jerry say today? Well we know what he’d say today. He’d say: I hate college kids! It’s crazy that this point is brought up within the cultural zeitgeist as it was twenty years ago. Crazier still as the tamest of comics being the crusader for free speech in comedy today. Well second tamest, the other guy raped a bunch of people. Zip zippidy doo!
Andrew: Is it OK to steal a gyro? In this case, I’ll allow it. I’m not going to say you should never throw your arm in to stop a subway door, but if you do, you have to be prepared to live with the consequences.
Jordan: Should the mailman have flown off the handle at Jerry like that? I guess you could make an argument for him thinking it was racially motivated since he’s Chinese, but Jerry even explained what he meant. That guy flipped out for no reason. Mailmen DO know neighborhoods!
Jason: Having sex in your parents’ bed. Was Frank right for grounding George? I’m on his side with this. Also, should Elaine have pressed charges against Ricky for stalking her? What a creep. Ok, the TV Guide has what Ricky thinks is Elaine’s address on it. Throw it in a box and mail it back to her with a note. Should Jerry have had to give Winona the TV guide back after she gave it to him? Take a hike, Indian giver!
Relationship Scale (Scale 1-10)
JT: Frank and Ricky, best buds forever. They will live on Queens and spend the rest of their days flipping through The Guides of years past, reminiscing of their salad days. Also, I think Sylvia is the best George match we have had to date. Relationship Grade: Here’s Lucy/10
Aaron: The city of New York has a scary love affair going on with those damn sandwiches. The RUN from an open subway car? Jesus I certainly hope they taste like angel semen for the sheer effort it takes to get one. Also Elaine should have banged Al Roker. Relationship Grade: 3 bucks/10 no change
Andrew: I’ve always liked Winona. She’s understanding enough to give Jerry a second chance, which is a good sign. Her story about needing the TV Guide back isn’t great though. Setting aside my doubts about the usefulness of a TV Guide interview to her report, if she’s a journalist, can’t she just get a copy at work? Why is she bugging Jerry for that one specific copy? Very fishy. As for George: his plan to pass off his parents’ house as his own had no business working, but he went for it anyway, and actually pulled it off. Way to close the deal, my friend. Truly, a great moment in fictional hookup history. Relationship Grade: Prophylactic/10
Jordan: Winona is a really attractive woman who is willing to overlook Jerry’s ignorance and give him a chance. He goes out of his way to not make another mistake, and she seems to know what he’s doing and is actually impressed by it. And then, the apartment scene happens, shattering a potential love that would rival John Smith and Pocahontas. Now, the casual viewer may THINK it was the Indian giver line. But it wasn’t. Winona used that as her excuse. Watch it again. Go ahead, I’ll wait. Are you back? Did you see that Jerry wore a purple sweater vest over a long sleeved denim shirt? Now you get it. Relationship Grade: COLORS OF THE WIND DON’T BELONG ON A SWEATER/10
Jason: I dig Jerry wanting to get Elaine something because he feels bad about not being able to drive her home. Classy move, Jerome. Winona needs to loosen up some. Jerry didn’t know she was Native American and he felt bad about it. I don’t blame Elaine for being creeped out by Ricky right away when she meets him on the subway. The Costanzas knock it out of the park again with their bickering. I want to spin-off series with Frank and Ricky. Relationship Grade: Kasha/10
What Worked:
JT: George fretting at his parents’ house was fantastic out of the gate, between the party limitations and the stained coffee table, we got off to a hot start; The gyro stuff was really good too, and perfect physical comedy setup for Kramer; Ricky was amazingly cast; Gepetto the table fixer landing the dig in at George abut being left home alone cracked me up; The Cigar Store Indian, that is all; Sylvia is awesome too; Jerry’s card and ensuing pow wow with the Indian in front of Winona was great, and the reveal of Winona’s heritage was well done; Sylvia getting the house tour; The Chinese mailman is so on edge and back-to-back with Kramer in the cab with the Indian was top notch; The Costanzas, as always; Of course Frank collects TV Guide and of course Estelle would find the condom wrapper, tremendous; Poor Jerry, completely on edge with everything he says; Great linking of stories with Lippman and Kramer meeting in the cigar store and Kramer was super smooth in bringing up the coffee table book; Great capper with Al Roker at the end
Aaron: Kramer is also phenomenal here. He starts off strong by eating the guest soaps and becoming indignant when questioned because he’s a guest. His interruption of Jerry’s talk with Winona using the Indian cries is probably horribly racist in retrospect but I still get a laugh at the innocence of it all. He’s just so happy about getting that statue! “I can HAVE this???” Perfect line reading from a man desperate for a Southwestern motif. In fact that whole scene where Jerry is trying to reason with Winona is great, culminating with the angriest Asian mailman this side of Ryu from Street Fighter. Mr. Lippmann’s reaction to hearing about the coffee table book is the look of the man who’s been let in on the greatest secrets of the Earth. He chomps down on his cigar and chastises Elaine to perfection. Speaking of perfection, Elaine’s little quirks were on high display here. I love it when she can’t contain her disdain over something small. The tone in her voice when she confirms that Frank collects TV Guide is nothing short of fierce loathing. There’s a great brief moment in the subway with the creep where she has to decide whether she’d rather admit to him that she’s single or lie and say Kramer is her boyfriend. She takes the bullet and goes with the former as it’s apparently that humiliating to be attached to the K-Man. Of course George is excellent here too. The freaking out to the antiquated rules of his parents house is such a nice contrast to “The Collector” who collects things of beauty. It’s a special kind of asshole who has a one night stand in his mother’s bed.
Andrew: Man, that was a really well plotted out episode, with all the storylines tying together, and the jokes coming one on top of another. Good stuff. Elaine’s admirer is perfect, so awkward I feel uncomfortable even watching him have a conversation. George’s furniture store friend is pretty funny, too. Despite the way it turned out, Jerry’s plan to impress Winona by giving Elaine a gift in front of her is really solid (judge the process, not the results). The incident with the mailman is an all-time great. And George’s parents are amazing, as usual. Frank’s rants never get old, and George’s mom blowing up his spot was great.
Jordan: I mean, just about everything. The Indian statue getting passed from person to person is good, and it landing Kramer his coffee table book is a nice payoff. Kramer shouting like an Indian in battle out the taxi window is hilarious. I also like the gyro story, specifically Elaine pushing the lady out of her way. Ricky is a nice, weird one off character. He sure loves Lucy! Frank and Estelle just hit home runs like they are Barry Bonds on full juice, every time they are on screen together they rule. George offering his date prune juice because it’s chilled is hilarious, as is his line about forgetting the combination to the liquor cabinet. Speaking of George, I like him flipping out over the coaster not being used. Winona is gorgeous and I can see why Jerry would trip over himself to impress her. Jerry tiptoeing around any possible racially charged word is fun, then he steps on a land mine by asking an Asian mailman where the Chinese restaurant is. I also liked the subtle line that Jerry gets Al Roker confused with other black people, proving he probably is more racist than he realizes. I also love that Frank doesn’t call it a condom wrapper, but a prophylactic wrapper.
Jason: Oh man, where to begin. The Indian statue being shuffled around. George landing Sylvia. Convincing her that his parents’ house is his. Sleeping with her in his parents’ bed, getting caught and Estelle blowing up George’s spot when he bumps into her at the antique store. George serving Sylvia prune juice because his parents keep a lock on the liquor cabinet. Kramer’s idea about the coffee table book coming to life. Jerry rocking the Indian statue back and forth and making stereotypical chants without knowing Winona is Native America. Kramer riding in the cab with the statue and making war-whoop sounds. Jerry catching himself saying, “reservation” and “scalper”. Frank losing his shit over Elaine taking the TV Guide from his house.
What Didn’t Work
JT: Even in these overly politically correct times, Winona feels a bit oversensitive, I mean how would Jerry know her heritage; And the Chinese mailman is an asshole too, and why the hell is he working at night anyway; George is so airtight with his plan, but he forgets the condom wrapper? Doesn’t totally fit his personality here, but I know the feeling of executing a perfect plan and overlooking one thing, causing it to unravel
Aaron: Is that poker game taking place at New York’s “Worst dressed women’s club”? Jesus.
Andrew: Who eats a gyro over her purse? Come on, Lainey, you’re better than that. Jerry’s reluctance to say “reservations” to a Native American has always seemed forced. I guess the joke is that he’s gun-shy and overreacting, but that particular instance has never worked for me. Also, at one point he says “Aren’t we all getting a little too sensitive?”, so I guess he’s been beating that anti-PC-police drum for a while now.
Jordan: I don’t see how I Love Lucy, The Lucy Show and Here’s Lucy equals six hours of Lucy. That’s an hour and a half. Unless each of them are being shown in four episode blocks, which I doubt. This isn’t The Big Bang Theory on TBS, it’s Lucy! Nice try, Ricky, you freak!
Jason: Are you kidding? Next!
Key Character Debuts
Winona
Ricky the TV Guide fanatic
Iconic Moments, Running Themes & Memorable Quotes
– “How would you describe the smell in this house?” – Jerry “Dandruff?” – Elaine “Yeah, that’s part of it. Kasha?” – Jerry “There’s some kasha.” – Elaine “Yeah. Dandruff, kasha, mothballs, cheap carpeting. It’s pot pourri, really.” – Jerry
– “You’re not allowed to have people over?” – Jerry “I can’t have any parties while they’re out of town.” – George
– “Hey, hey, hey, hey. You know what would make a great coffee table book? A coffee table book about coffee tables! Get it?” – Kramer
– “Fine, okay. It’s just, I’ve never seen a beautiful lady reading ‘The Guide’ so far away from a TV. You must really like television.” – Ricky
– “Alright, but no later, because my parents are coming back.” – George “They left you home alone, huh?” – Gepetto
– “Wow, you bought the Indian? Oh, you guys have great taste.” – Sylvia “Well, we’re collectors. We, uh, see objects of great beauty and, uh, we must have them.” – George
– “We had a little fight this afternoon. Let’s bury the hatchet. We smoke um peace pipe.” – Jerry
– “You got very unusual taste.” – Sylvia “I hope prune juice is alright. It’s the only thing I had that was chilled.” – George “Fine.” – Sylvia “I’m sorry about that lock on the liquor cabinet. The combination musta just flown outta my head. It’s a mental block.” – George “Ahh! Is this your son in the bubble bath?” – Sylvia “No, that’s me.” – George “Oh. You don’t see many guys your age who keep baby pictures of themselves around. I like it. Consistent with the rest of the house.” – Sylvia “Yes, it is consistent. I’ve, uh, I’ve tried to maintain a consistent feel throughout the house.” – George “What is this we’re listening to?” – Sylvia “The Ray Conniff Singers.” – George “Mmmm, what’s that smell? Kasha?” – Sylvia “It’s a potpourri.” – George
– “Why must I know? Because I’m Chinese? You think I know where all the Chinese restaurants are? Oh, ask honorable Chinaman for rocation of restaurant.” – Mailman “I asked because you were the mailman, you would know the neighborhood.” – Jerry “Oh, hello American Joe. Which way to hamburger, hotdog stand?” – Mailman
– “I’m missing TV Guide volume forty-one, number thirty-one.” – Frank “Uh, Elaine took it to read on the subway.” – Jerry “Elaine took it?” – Frank “I didn’t know she took it!” – George “Ah, it’s two weeks old.” – Jerry “How could you let her take the TV Guide?!” – Frank “He collects them.” – George “You collect TV Guide?” – Jerry
– “Your bed is too small? I’m gone two weeks and you turn our house into, into Bourbon Street!” – Frank
– “That’s it! You’re grounded!” – Frank “You can’t ground me, I’m a grown man.” – George “You wanna live here? You respect the rules of our house. You’re grounded!” – Frank
– “Wait a second, you got the Mark McEwan TV Guide.” – Jerry “That’s Al Roker.” – Winona “Oh well, they’re both chubby weathermen. I get Dom Deluise and Paul Prudhoe mixed up too. Could I have this?” – Jerry
– “I thought it was a pretty good idea. It’s about coffee tables, it’s on a coffee table.” – Jerry “Yeah, right, right, and on the cover is a built-in coaster.” – Kramer
– “How do you just walk into a house and take a TV Guide? How does she expect you to watch TV? Am I just supposed to turn it on and wander aimlessly around the dial?” – Frank
– “Well, why would I assume. I never assume. Leads to assumptions.” – Jerry
– “You mean like, an Indian giver?!” – Winona “I’m sorry, I’m not familiar with that term.” – Jerry
– “Those. I’ve been saving those from the beginning.” – Frank “These are worth like, a lot of money.” – Ricky
– “Elaine! Hello! You look scrumptious.” – Ricky
– “You see, this is the kind of idea you should be coming in with. What the hell do you do round here all day anyway?” – Lippman “Well I …manuscript that I…” – Elaine
– “George doesn’t work. He’s a bum. That’s why he lives at home with us.” – Estelle
Oddities & Fun Facts
– Kramer comes up with the idea for his coffee table book about coffee tables
Overall Grade (Scale 1-10)
JT: Well, this came out of nowhere. I always knew I enjoyed this episode, but never realized how flawless it was. The writing was airtight and everything came back around in one way or another, whether it the Indian, the Guide, the coffee table or the gyro, nothing went to waste. Every character was brilliant too, all playing to their strengths, including the Costanzas and the guest stars as well. We also get the start of the coffee table book storyline, which would become pop culture icon within weeks of its first mention. Toss in Jerry’s insensitive, casual racism and then overcorrecting, and we got ourselves a pantheon great installment. Final Grade: 10/10
Aaron: This one was awesome top to bottom. I don’t think I can go full monty, but it’s damn close. Everything and everyone was clicking here. Probably the best episode of season five to date and a must watch for all TV enthusiasts. Final Grade: 9/10
Andrew: Welp, that’s the way to clear out the stench of last week’s disappointing entry. Great writing, solid performances, and some real laugh out loud moments. I had never thought of this as one of my favorite episodes, but it holds up incredibly well. Final Grade: 9/10
Jordan: Might be an overrate based off the weakness of the last episode, but this was great. Seinfeld’s greatest strength is weaving a bunch of stories together and they do that here. The gang visits George and he frets over a coffee table, which leads to Elaine meeting Ricky in the subway and the great gyro chase, Jerry buying the cigar store indian and making Winona think he’s a racist and George sleeping with a woman in his parents bed. Great stuff. Final Grade: 10/10
Jason: A very entertaining episode from beginning to end. This has always been one of my personal favorites and I’ve been looking forward to watching it again for this column. A perfect episode that casual fans should check out. Brilliant writing all around and some discussion should be made for this episode as a top ten in the series. Grab a gyro, a TV Guide, throw on some Ray Conniff Singers and enjoy this gem. Final Grade: 10/10
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Post by sbtbfanatic on Sept 17, 2015 15:32:11 GMT
Seinfeld: The PTBN Series Rewatch – “The Conversion” (S5, E11)
Best Character
JT: George takes this one for me. Jerry and Kramer were both really good in spots, but George was constantly great throughout. He alternated between emotions at a rapid pace and his final showdown with his parents had me laughing the whole way through. The poor guy just wants love! Please faddah!
Aaron: I don’t even care that they’re in one and a half scenes but it’s the Costanzas again. I’m sorry but they’re going to win every time. Them grilling George from the outside of the bathroom as he hides his orthodoxy is brilliant and only Frank Costanza could pull off screaming, “You’re not performing any rituals in this house!” They’re the best. Every time.
Andrew: I liked Kramer the most. Seeing him tortured by his power over women is pretty good, but I was most impressed with his first scene, when he’s just killing it with one or two word interjections in the diner (“Fungi”). The little things count for a lot on this show, and Kramer is expert at them.
Jordan: I’ll give the edge to Kramer here, but I can’t fault anyone who picks George. Both were excellent, but I think Kramer delivers more with less. Plus, it’s the kavorka!
Jason: I have to go with George. He doesn’t want to lose another girl, so he agrees to convert to her religion. In the process he writes notes on his hand to cheat during the conversion test and lies to priests. Oh Brother… Costanza.
Best Storyline
JT: George’s conversion takes this one easily for me. Kramer’s kavorka was good too, but got started a bit late in the episode. Elaine and Jerry’s storylines were so-so this time around and I enjoyed Jerry as part of George’s issue more.
Aaron: The conversion to Latvian Orthodox is the obvious choice for me here. Not only do we get George lying and scheming in the face of religious piety, but it leads us back to Frank and Estelle which is where I always want the show to go.
Andrew: The Kavorka … the lure of the animal. I’ll always enjoy a storyline focused on Kramer’s success with women, and giving it a supernatural spin takes it to another level. And on top of that, there’s Sister Roberta considering giving up her calling for a man. It all adds up to a really solid storyline.
Jordan: Since I gave Kramer best character, I’ll split the difference and give George’s conversion the best storyline. It’s something George would absolutely do, and I actually wish we would have gotten more disgust out of Jerry and Elaine for his doing it. I loved that he cheated on the test.
Jason: I really enjoyed Kramer picking up on a vibe from a nun, but George taking every shortcut possible to convert is so enjoyable.
Ethical Dilemma of the Week
JT: Should you try to convince a nun that has fallen for you to give up her forbidden love and return to the cloth? It’s a real gray area. If you feel the same way then you have to go for it. Of course, it is a heavy burden to carry, but true love is true love. It is obvious that the K-Man wasn’t going to stick around with Sister Roberta longterm, so he sacrificed his God-given lure for the greater good.
Aaron: If you have the Kavorka should you take the necessary steps to cleanse yourself, or just go with it and sleep your way through New York City? Truly the question of the ages. I wish I could say I were strong enough to bathe in vinegar and drape myself in garlic, but alas I am but a simple man, a simple man with carnal pleasures. Bring me to New York where I will rule from on high.
Andrew: If a man is cursed with the Kavorka, does he have to find a way to get rid of it? I feel like I’d want to ride that one out for a while, see where it takes me. But if it’s gotten to the point where it’s affecting major life decisions, it may be time to reconsider things.
Jordan: Is leaving the medicine cabinet open fair game for exploration and discovery of evidence? I would have to cite many, many episodes of Law & Order where the fungicide would be thrown out of court.
Jason: When is it right to go through someone’s medicine cabinet? Jerry seems to like Tawni, so is it OK for him to take a peak? I say bad move here. Going through someone’s medicine cabinet is like going through a woman’s purse without asking.
Relationship Scale (Scale 1-10)
JT: We got four separate relationships working in this one, all to various degrees of success. I really liked Tawni as she seemed like a real sweetheart and was a bit of a fox. But Jerome had to snoop and botched that one all up. Elaine’s podiatrist beau was creepy and bland and didn’t get much screen time to make a difference. Poor, poor Sister Roberta was all sorts of confused but I kind of wanted that one to last into the next episode before Kramer bit the bullet. George and his Latvian Lover are where it’s at…until he converts and she takes off on a pilgrimage anyway. She seemed so pained to break up with him that I was surprised she was so callous about taking off at the end. Poor, poor Georgie. Relationship Grade: Brother Costanza/10
Aaron: I’m a fan whenever Kramer gets to knock boots with a weird chick. First it was the librarian, then the scientist. Sister Roberta would have had it made in the shade (like gorillas) had Kramer been the weak man that I am. Relationship Grade: 5/10
Andrew: There’s nothing quite like a religious order/forbidden romance story. And I thought Tawni was pretty charming. I think Elaine dodged a bullet with the podiatrist, though. He was pretty dull. Relationship Grade:Edward VIII/X
Jordan: Jerry and Tawni is interesting, because it doesn’t seem to end by the time the episode finishes, which is rare. Elaine’s podiatrist was a whole lot of meh. Kramer and Sister Roberta is a forbidden love that we must not speak of. And then there’s George. I feel like his girl (whose name I can’t remember) made up the religion thing to break it off with him, because once he converted, she still bailed. Total scumbag move. Relationship Grade: LATVIAN/FUNGICIDE
Jason: I think Kramer and Sister Roberta would make an excellent couple. Elaine’s podiatrist boyfriend sucks. An un-sponge-worthy buffoon, if you will. Another stellar performance from the Costanzas. Tawni is a nice catch for Jerry. Fungus or not, way to go Jerome! Sasha wants to break up with George, but still orders the lobster? Oh hell no! Relationship Grade: Succulent/10
What Worked:
JT: Poor George, religion screws him right off the top here and by the look on his girlfriend’s face, she is pretty upset about it but when she still orders the lobster I laughed; Latvian Orthodox is so damn random that it works beautifully; It is fun seeing old school George, smitten and ready to the marry the girl that just got away; I love the scene where George slowly decides to convert, including Jerry’s dig about King Edward not living in Queens; Kramer’s honesty about the snooping was well done and his suggestive nod after saying Fungi got me to laugh out loud; George’s lying to the priests was brilliant as well; Kramer’s slinky; Jerry’s fake cough; George studying in the bathroom while getting bitched out by his parents and then trying to cheat was excellent; Kavorka!: The Costanzas harassing George on his conversion day was perfect; The conversion scene spliced with Kramer hustling was really good; Poor George loses in the end, as always
Aaron: All of George’s lies to the priests are great. Someone telling the truth doesn’t begin a sentence with, “In this age of uncertainty and confusion…” It culminates nicely in a conversion scene where George’s awful eating habits bite him in the ass in the form of wine he NEEDS to gulp down. The scene at the diner with Jerry, Elaine and Kramer where they discuss fungicide and the plural of fungus is a treat. Kramer also has a great showing here as a man clearly cursed with a terrible power. Of course he runs into a woman about to become a nun. Of course he does. I could take or leave Elaine’s story, but the way she flippantly besmirches podiatry is pretty great. As is the lack of care as Jerry and Elaine wolf down George’s lobster as he pours his heart out to them.
Andrew: I enjoyed Jerry and Elaine tearing into George’s leftover lobster while he’s mourning his relationship. And I liked the diner conversation about the fungicide, especially Kramer’s eyebrow waggle when he corrects Elaine on the plural of “fungus”. George’s conversion storyline was pretty solid; it worked well for the character, and led to a good scene with his parents. And I really do like the Kavorka stuff.
Jordan: The conversion and Kavorka story blended together really well, and I liked George mentioning that he really likes the hats as his big reason for converting. Kramer is great throughout, correcting Jerry and Elaine with “fungi” at the diner. I liked George’s abrupt statements in the apartment and his lamenting while Elaine and Jerry feasted on his leftover lobster. George calling the father “Fadda” is so random, but maybe the funniest moment of the episode.
Jason: Everything with the conversion process is a win. George studying in the bathroom so his parents won’t find out. Writing notes on his hand for the test. Asking if there’s an express conversion. If there’s any man out there that could have Sister leave a church for them, it’s Kramer. Frank asking if this is the group that goes around mutilating squirrels gets a laugh every time. George’s, “Yes, Faddah” and “So, am I in?” are both great. George sobbing over what happened with Sasha while Jerry and Elaine eat his leftover lobster is Seinfeld 101. Kramer with the garlic cloves around his neck is hilarious.
What Didn’t Work
JT: All the snooping; Elaine’s boyfriend is a little odd and sensitive; Jerry’s girlfriend is so nice, he is an asshole this time around
Aaron: George’s girlfriend crying off the top is maybe the worst acing in this history of the show. Keep in mind this is a show with Jerry Seinfeld on it, who, five years in, still doesn’t know how to kiss a girl on camera!!! I didn’t love the fungus story or the doctor bits as they felt a little tacked on to the religious awakening that was happening on the other side.
Andrew: I didn’t care for the flipped hallway set. It made sense for the scenes with Tawni, establishing that she was right down the hall, but it was really disorienting.
Jordan: I didn’t care for George’s girl at all. Wailing loudly and still ordering the lobster? That’s a George move! It shouldn’t be done TO George! The podiatrist not being a real doctor jokes seemed lame.
Jason: Elaine’s streak of dating morons continues. No love for Estelle’s old hag friends being nosey and ratting out George.
Key Character Debuts
Sister Roberta
Iconic Moments, Running Themes & Memorable Quotes
– “Yes, well, you know, I’m not thinking about the price. You know you’re the only woman I’ve never thought about the price. Get the lobster. I beg you to get the lobster. Go for the lobster.” – George
– “We started to talk, and I told him that I jog, and then he put his hand on my heart.” – Elaine “On your heart?” – Jerry “Jerry, the man is a doctor.” – Elaine “Doctor? He’s a podiatrist.” – Jerry “It’s the same thing.” – Elaine “Anyone can get into podiatry school. George got into podiatry school.” – Jerry
– “I know. This was the only woman I never lied to. Well that’s not entirely true.” – George
– “To Latvian Orthodox?” – Jerry “Why not? What do I care?” – George “You know it’s not like changing toothpaste.” – Jerry “I think it would be romantic.” – Elaine “Really?” – George “Yeah, it’s like Edward the Eighth abdicating the throne and marrying Mrs. Simpson. Ooh.” – Elaine “King Edward. King Edward, Jerry.” – George “Yeah well King Edward didn’t live in Queens with Frank and Estelle Costanza.” – Jerry
– “Fungicide. I mean what could she have?” – Jerry “I don’t know.” – Elaine “Fungus.” – Kramer
– “I am not going to ask him about funguses.” – Elaine “Fungi.” – Kramer “What?” – Jerry “Fungi.” – Kramer
– “Is there one aspect of the faith that you find particularly attractive?” – Priest “I think the hats. The hat convey that solemn religious look you want in a faith. Very pious.” – George
– “That’s all there is to it. By Christmas day I will be Brother Costanza.” – George “And when is Brother Costanza planning on telling Mother Costanza?” – Jerry “Brother Costanza will be taking the vow of silence.” – George
– “You picked up on a vibe, from a nun.” – Jerry “Yeah, Jerry I’m telling you I have this power. And I have no control over it.” – Kramer
– “Yeah I’ve got this old bottle of cough medicine.” – Jerry “I still have brill cream.” – George
– “Okay, Latvius was the son of which apostle? And I’ll need that in the form of a question.” – Jerry
– “She told me. She said she’s never had a man stir up all of these feelings inside of her. She’s questioning her faith. She’s thinking of leaving the church. Oh, uh, this power. I’m dangerous Jerry, I’m very very dangerous.” – Kramer
– “Kavorka?” – Kramer “It is a Latvian word which means “the lure of the animal”.” – Priest “I don’t understand.” – Kramer “Women are drawn to you. They would give anything to be possessed by you.” – Priest “Help me Father. Help me.” – Kramer “Yes, yes I will help you. Listen very carefully. I want you to buy ten cloves of garlic, three quarts of vinegar, six ounces…” – Priest
– “Latvian Orthodox? Why are you doing this?” – Estelle “For a woman.” – George “A woman? What are you out of your mind?” – Frank “Why can’t you do anything like a normal person?” – Estelle “Wait. Is this the group that goes around mutilating squirrels?” – Frank “No it’s a regular religion.” – George “I’m calling my lawyer. It might not be too late to get out of this.” – Frank “I don’t want to get out of it.” – George “George, you don’t know what you’re saying. You’re under their control.” – Estelle “What, they brainwashed you?” – Frank “No no.” – George “You’re not performing any rituals in this house.” – Frank “Go back to the psychiatrist. I beg you.” – Estelle “And stay away from those squirrels.” – Frank
Oddities & Fun Facts
N/A
Overall Grade (Scale 1-10)
JT: I really feel like this episode was put into a tough spot having to follow the Cigar Store Indian juggernaut. It was really good with lots of laughs, but no matter what followed that slice of perfection, it was going to be a bit of a letdown. That said, there is lots here to like. George was fantastic throughout and the scene with his parents was top notch. Kramer was also really good, both with his general counsel early and his kavorka issues later. Jerry was good with his trolling of George but his fungus story fell flat. I also didn’t care much for Elaine’s story here as it was clear they only inserted the podiatrist boyfriend to push the fungus stuff along. I guess that is what separates this episode from the previous one. This time, the tie-ins all felt a little forced, specifically the one I just mentioned. The Indian episode, everything felt like a natural progression and nothing seemed to exist solely to be shoehorned in as a plot device. Again, I am nitpicking, but what the hell else are we supposed to do? Convert to being fans of a lesser sitcom? Final Grade: 6/10
Aaron: Middle of the road episode here propped up by great stuff from Kramer, Frank and Estelle. It lacked a little cohesion, but the stories were funny enough on their own and still made for a fun half hour. Final Grade: 6/10
Andrew: Eh, I thought this episode was underwhelming. There’s a lot of potential in the Kavorka and conversion storylines, but I just didn’t find myself laughing very much while watching them. I think I like the idea of this one more than the actual episode. This season is in a bit of an uneven stretch, but I believe it picks up again soon. Final Grade: 6/10
Jordan: This was a mixed bag, as conversion and kavorka are great stories, but the fungicide stuff is really just filler and not very funny. I didn’t hate it, I laughed a few times, but it’s not an episode I would ever have a desire to watch again, unless I’m marathoning the whole show. Or reviewing it all for a website. Or boning up on the rich hat history of the Latvian Orthodox culture. Final Grade: 6/10
Jason: Another solid episode from this season. A little drop off from the perfect episode last week, but still holds its own. Sister Roberta is a sweetheart and was enjoyable the entire episode. Lots of laughs from George and Kramer. Frank and Estelle kill it again. Elaine deserves a good dude. Enough with these dimwits. I think she finally catches a break in our next episode. Until then, don’t go snooping in medicine cabinets and stay away from those squirrels. Final Grade: 7/10
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Post by sbtbfanatic on Sept 17, 2015 15:33:04 GMT
Seinfeld: The PTBN Series Rewatch – “The Stall” (S5, E12)
Best Character
JT: I really liked George a lot in this one. Jerry was good too, with lots of top notch one liners. Elaine and Kramer? Strong as always. But…babe…step off. Tony is the only real choice this time around. Whether he is rocking his backwards cap, eating salmon sandwiches or reading Superman comics, he is the man we all wish to be. He is everything you want. He is everything you need. He is Tony. The mimbo’s mimbo.
Aaron: Kramer made me laugh the most but I’ll give it to shallow Elaine. Sure she tries to cover her inherent superficiality but at the end of the day her grilling of Tony following his horrific accident brings forth her true mean colors. Not that we should be surprised the way she belittled George for spreading his wings and trying rock climbing. Her vendetta with Jane was great but her realization that Tony’s accident meant that in a final irony she’d finally learn what love really is seals the deal for me. Her tearful delivery was sadly true and perfect.
Andrew: Man, everyone is so good that it almost seems unfair to choose just one, but I’ll go with George. He just brings so much pathos in the scene where Tony “dumps” him (“Me? Step off?”). And the rest is quality too, from denying his “crush”, to bickering with Kramer in the hallway, to the sandwiches. Good stuff.
Jordan: It’s a two person race between Kramer and Elaine. Kramer was blowing Jerry’s mind, and Elaine was shallow in her love for Tony. Both of them had nice storylines with Jerry’s girl…but I’ll give it to Elaine this time. The giddy look on her face as she left the bathroom with all the toilet paper was worth a win.
Jason: Tough choice here. George was fantastic with his man crush and Andre… I mean Kramer was great with the phone sex stuff. But I got to go with hunky Tony. A pretty boy who lives on the edge and has great hair. He has my vote for #MCM.
Best Storyline
JT: The adventures of George and Tony take this one for me. Kramer’s sex hotline addiction and Elaine’s quest to find the stingy toilet paper hoarder were well executed, but the rock climbing scene is an all time classic. Also, George man crush on Tony was just really well done and not overacted at all.
Aaron: I really like George being Robin to Tony’s Batman. Who knew that Tony would end up being Jason Todd, only this time taken out by sandwiches.
Andrew: I’ll always be a sucker for a non-sexual male crush storyline. I think we’ve all been there, and anytime I find myself identifying with George to an uncomfortable degree, I’ve got to go with that storyline. Tony is perfect as the dumb extreme sports bro; it’s the role Dan Cortese was born to play.
Jordan: George’s deep love for Tony and his great desire to impress him. I liked him trying to get out of rock climbing because he had to get a boil lanced and volunteering to bring sandwiches. George really knows how to impress extreme sports athletes.
Jason: The spare a square stuff is fun, but George’s man crush on Tony is fantastic. Tony is everything that George isn’t and George loves being around such a cool guy.
Ethical Dilemma of the Week
JT: Did George really have any right to blame Kramer for Tony’s accident? No. George was in charge of the rope. He should have secured it all first before dipping into his pockets to show off his delicious sandwiches. Sure, Kramer glommed onto his man-date, but the K-Man did nothing wrong here, dude.
Aaron: Picture this: you’ve given in, you have to poop so badly that you’re willing to brave a public washroom, (a movie theatre no less!!) and when you finally top that bowl off (ew) a realization hits…. there are no squares. Now I know these things are usually more open ended but fuck companies that don’t keep their toilet paper rolls full. They should have an employee on staff whose sole job is to make sure that people aren’t forced to use their hands or humiliatingly slide under to the next stall to provide themselves with basic human hygiene. No wonder people shit on the walls in these places.
Andrew: Is it different for men? Is there any reason a woman can’t date a guy solely for his looks? Absolutely not. Go get you some, ladies.
Jordan: Now listen, I will fully agree with Elaine that Jane was awful. To horde all the toilet paper like it was gold is rotten…but! On the rare occasions I use a public toilet for dumping issues, the first thing I do (after holding my breath) is make sure there’s toilet paper. Ultimately, Elaine has no one to blame but herself.
Jason: Sparing a square. Who the hell does Jane think she is? This is a tough spot to be in. Asking a stranger in the stall next to you for some toilet paper is an uncomfortable situation, but Jane is a selfish rotten human being for not helping Elaine out.
Relationship Scale (Scale 1-10)
JT: Jane is whatever. Erika is whatever. Tony? Tony is where it is at. He and Elaine is never going to last, but he and George? There is a real dominatrix vibe in the air there. Within weeks, Tony would forgive George, but make him do some errands and clean his apartment. Then, Kramer comes by and as he and Tony head to the bowling alley for a night out, George is left behind to wash dishes and wonder what could have been on that mountain if things had just gone according to plan. Relationship Grade: Babe/Dude
Aaron: Kramer was right, George was in love with Tony. He cared so much about feeding the man that he let him fall to his near death. THAT”S LOVE BAY BAY! Relationship Grade: 10/10
Andrew: Jerry definitely dodged a bullet with Jane. She’s not hard on the eyes, but that woman is clearly unstable. Tony, on the other hand, is great. He clearly makes Elaine happy, and makes George even happier. It’s a shame it couldn’t work out for those three. Relationship Grade: Step Off/10
Jordan: Most classic sitcom relationships start with some flirting and goes from there. The love blossoms naturally over time. But this? This was pure, filthy sex. Andre and Erika are the XXX version of Ross and Rachel. The smutty Sam and Diane. The lustful Lucy and Ricky. We needed a spinoff for it. Relationship Grade: What about the driver?/10
Jason: Tony is everything that Elaine can want in a man. She deserves someone like him after the losing streak she’s been on lately.George’s man crush on Tony is something special. Jane is worthless for Jerry with the exception of finally getting a massage. What a non-square sharing bitch. Relationship Grade: FLINTY/10
What Worked:
JT: Tony is immaculate immediately, babe; Jerry’s trolling of Tony to Elaine always makes me chuckle, as does his reaction when Elaine first tells the stall story; Andre’s sexcapade is top notch; George’s infatuation with Tony is so enjoyable, especially when he swings his hat around at the diner; Kramer being cool enough to slip right in with Tony makes all the sense in the world; Kramer and George on the mountain is an iconic visual; Tony falling is a great swerve, because you expect it but not totally; Jerry shoveling the gum in Jane’s mouth was great on the fly thinking; Jerry asking George if Tony liked the sandwiches after Elaine runs off always cracks me up; The massage callback was great; Kramer meeting Jane was amazing, really well done; The closing stretch with everything coming together was a hell of a finish, between Elaine’s revenge and Jane’s final whisper to Kramer, just great storytelling; Elaine’s shit-eating grin when she storms out of the bathroom with the rolls of toilet paper was fantastic
Aaron: George brings Tony the DEATH OF SUPERMAN comic. I was told that was worth a lot of money. I still have two in bags! I want that damn funeral poster but I’m scared to open it because my dad will yell at me. I’m 35 years old!!! Kramer was his usual great self and his revelation that George loved Tony was only topped by his revelation that Jane was the phone sex worker. “Am I? Or am I so sane that I just blew your mind?” would fall to pieces in a lesser actors’ hands. The fact that he builds and expands on it is beautiful. Jerry’s call back to the masseuse not massaging him was pretty great. I love George and Kramer arguing on the other side of Jerry’s door in voices clearly loud enough to be heard. All the toilet paper stuff is super well written with intelligent callbacks using napkins and intercoms. The physical stuff on the mountain was great too. My favorite line of the entire episode though is Tony wondering aloud, “If I jumped off that balcony would I get hurt.” I think every single one of us who has played a video game (especially Assassin’s Creed) can relate to seeing an obstacle, building or series of cars and thought, “I could climb that.”
Andrew: Dan Cortese was great. “Think if I jumped off that balcony I’d get hurt?” Elaine was excellent as well, especially when she’s just kicking back and openly laughing at George. She’s still destroying him with the one-liners, too: “You need a boost to climb into your bed!” And her revenge on Jane was well-executed, to boot. Kramer was on fire during his rant: “Is it so possible, your head is spinning like a top?” Jerry’s gum ploy to disguise Jane’s voice was surprisingly effective, and I enjoyed him blowing off Elaine’s emotional appeal in the diner. Really, everyone was great.
Jordan: Obviously the spare a square bit was great, but I like Elaine just dating a man purely for looks. It lays the groundwork that Elaine only cares about the physical, which gives us a more memorable relationship with her down the road. Kramer was awesome throughout, from telling George he loved Tony to using Jerry’s phone AND bedroom for phone sex. George turning his hat around because Tony did was awesome, and I liked the mountain climbing stuff. Kramer leaping around the mountain and climbing on George while George is terrified is a perfect summary of the two characters. I liked Elaine getting her revenge on Jane, and the line at the end telling Kramer not to call her either was a nice finish. And of course, Jerry calling back to dating a masseuse by saying he’s been waiting a while for this as he gets his shoulders rubbed.
Jason: Whoever is responsible for casting Dan Cortese as Tony is a genius! George staring at Tony at Monk’s never gets old. When he turns his hat around like Tony’s I had tears from laughing so hard. Kramer calling out George for being in love with Tony. Kramer’s rock climbing outfit is amazing. The spandex with the yellow tank top and sunscreen on his nose is a big win. Kramer asking about the driver when Jane suggests splitting a cab gets a big laugh. Kramer yodeling while rock climbing. Jerry imitating Tony is another big laugh. The term “mimbo” might be the best overall thing that came out of this episode. George being heart broken when Tony tells him to step off after the accident. Kramer trying to convince Jerry that Jane is Erika is another win. Jerry shoving gum into Jane’s mouth so that Elaine won’t recognize her voice.
What Didn’t Work
JT: I love Tony even if he is everything annoying about the adrenaline rush extreme sports junkies of the early 90s; Jane is really selfish across the board; How did Kramer and George contact help in this pre-cell phone era?
Aaron: As much as I dug the mountain scene cutting to a commercial with Kramer and George screaming for help felt a bit too sitcomy for my tastes. Also, how did they get down?
Andrew: Is the implication that Jane is Erica, and was going to meet Kramer/Andre at the diner, but saw Jerry and immediately switched gears? If so, that is frighteningly devious. But I do wish it was more clear either way.
Jordan: Elaine’s socks. Come on, lady. How did George and Kramer get off the mountain?
Jason: Elaine’s shoes with the white socks. A major warbrobe fail from Laney. I’d tell Kramer to use his own phone for phone sex.
Key Character Debuts
Jane
Tony the Mimbo
Iconic Moments, Running Themes & Memorable Quotes
– “Three squares? you can’t spare three squares??” – Elaine “No I don’t have a square to spare, I can’t spare a square” – Jane “Oh is it two-ply? cause it it’s two-ply I’ll take one ply, one ply, one, one puny little ply, I’ll take one measly ply!” – Elaine “Look, I don’t have a square and I don’t have a ply!” – Jane
– “Elaine, you cannot judge a person on a situation like that. I mean it’s like asking for someone’s canteen in the desert!” – Jerry
– “Hey Andre, get the hell off the phone!” – Jerry
– “Elaine, he’s a… he’s a male bimbo, he’s a mimbo” – Jerry “He’s not a mimbo, he’s an exciting, charismatic man and he just happened to have a perfect face…” – Elaine
– “Bowling! what do you see bowling? Bowling’s insane! Bowling is crazy time!” – George “Bowling? I don’t think so George you get no rush from bowling!” – Tony “Rush? you want a rush? drop a bowl on your toe my friend, talk about a rush, you’d be throbbing, you’d see visions!” – George
– “Cool, so what do you say we climb a rock manana?” – Tony “Huh.. maana? huh maana might…huh mnaana might be a problem, I’m supposed to have huh a boil lanced manana. Huh you know I think they charge me if I cancel with only one manana’s notice,” – George
– “Hey, hey Kramer my man, what are you doing mañana?” – Tony “Mañana, I’m doing nada.” – Kramer “What do you say you scale some rock with me and George?” – Tony “Huh Tony? there’s not gonna be too many sandwiches…” – George
– “Rock climbing? hehe.. where do you come off going rock climbing…rock climbing? you need a boost to climb into your bed!” – Elaine
– “You know I think you’re in love with him…” – Kramer “What?.. that’s ridiculous!” – George “No no no, I don’t think so. You love him.” – Kramer “You better be careful on those rocks tomorrow buddy. And you’re not getting any sandwiches either!” – George
– “Well that voice, it’s very familiar…throaty, almost flinty…” – Kramer
– “Yeah I got some sandwiches.. I got tuna.. and salmon salad Tony because I know you don’t like peanut butter!” – George
– “Kramer was supposed to tie a knot…” – George “Whoa ginga, you were supposed to tie the knot…” – Kramer “Did something happen?” – Elaine “Tony.. took a bit of a tumble…” – George “His face, did something happen to his face?” – Jerry “ell it all depends on what you mean by…happen…” – Kramer
– “I just wanted to talk to Tony for a minute…” – George “Step off George, I don’t wanna see you!” – Tony “Me? Step off?” – George “Yeah, Tony says you better step off George…” – Elaine “But..why, it wasn’t my fault, I .. you asked me a sandwich, I .. I make such delicious sandwiches Elaine…” – George “Just beat it dude!” – Tony “Here here, Superman please, next time it will only be the two of us…” – George “There won’t be any next time George!” – Tony “Oh Tony don’t…” – George “Ok step off George, can you just step off?” – Elaine
– “Jerry, that voice is tattooed on my brain, I’m telling you it’s her!” – Kramer “Oh you’re crazy…” – Jerry “Am I? or am I so sane that you just blew your mind?” – Kramer “It’s impossible…” – Jerry “Is it? or is it so possible your heard is spinning like a top?” – Kramer “It can’t be!” – Jerry “Can’t it? or is your entire world just crashing down all around you?” – Kramer
Oddities & Fun Facts
– Jane is portrayed by actress Jami Gertz
– Tony is portrayed by actor Dan Cortese
– Kramer wants to call a 976 number, which indicates a toll based phone sex line
– “I don’t have a square to spare” becomes a pop culture catchphrase
Overall Grade (Scale 1-10)
JT: I always remembered liking this episode, but I went in assuming it would be solid, but not overwhelmingly great. I was wrong. I laughed the whole way through. There was tons of great one liners and memorable moments, including “square to spare” catchphrase, and the big payoff at the end was brilliantly done, especially with Jane’s double back to reveal she was indeed Erika. Plus, Kramer’s whole spiel to Jerry when he pieces the puzzle together is one of my favorite K-Man rants. George’s crush was tremendous too and I just adore Tony as well. Great episode with lots of praise to spare. Final Grade: 8/10
Aaron: Really fun episode with some tight writing and solid performances all around. Mean Jerry, mean Elaine, pathetic George and Kramer are all in their best roles and that usually means a great episode. If this had had a dose of Frank and Elaine it may stand as an all-timer, as it is it’s very, very good. Final Grade: 8/10
Andrew: That was good stuff. There are a lot of bits from this episode that have stuck in my memory, particularly the “spare a square” stuff, and the “mimbo”. But I don’t think I ever fully appreciated how good an episode it was from start to finish. It never lags, and is funny throughout. I’m still grading it a notch below the best, but I have no complaints. Final Grade: 8/10
Jordan: This was pretty darn fun. Everyone had a nice story: Kramer and his phone sex, Elaine’s revenge against the mystery bathroom voice, George’s love of Tony, and Jerry trying to figure out if Jane was indeed Erika. George’s man crush was awesome, and I already mentioned it, but the look on Elaine’s face as she triumphantly runs out of the bathroom is so good. Final Grade: 8/10
Jason: Another solid episode here. Dan Cortese (Tony) was fabulous. One of the best single episode appearances from a guest star. The payoff at the end with Elaine taking all of the toilet paper out of the bathroom is great. Phone sex, mimbos, rock climbing and toilet paper. What more could you ask for in an episode? Final Grade: 9/10
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Post by sbtbfanatic on Sept 17, 2015 15:33:14 GMT
Seinfeld: The PTBN Series Rewatch – “The Dinner Party” (S5, E13)
Best Character
JT: I have to go with a tie here between Jerry and George. George’s coat was so absurd and his war on party gifts and double parkers was tremendous and valiant. Jerry was really good here too with his outlandish rants and stories on multiple occasions. Elaine and Kramer were really good too, but I thought they were just a step behind.
Aaron: If all you need for a good time is a Penthouse Forum and a Clark bar you are a man free of inhibitions and full of happiness. Kramer is that man.
Andrew: This was an excellent ensemble effort, but I enjoyed Kramer the most. I’m jealous of his ability to venture out and trust that he’ll “get by” without a wallet. I admire his refusal to double-park. And I find his fascination with the Penthouse Forum very entertaining.
Jordan: I seriously thought about giving it to Saddam, but Kramer is the best here. It’s a real shame for Jerry, because he was very solid throughout, but when the K-Man dominates, nobody stands a chance. Buying the Penthouse was the clincher. He doesn’t use a wallet, he gets hypothermia, he nails everything this time!
Jason: Much like, “The Cigar Store Indian”, EVERYONE wins here! The core four, the bakery counterwoman, the old man in the bakery, the liquor store guy, the newsstand guy, the Benedicts, the foreign guy on the street, “Saddam Hussein”, babka, no hair, for everybody!
Best Storyline
JT: George’s coat. He looked stupid. He acted stupid. He broke wine. He lost his jacket. Look to the jacket.
Aaron: George`s worship of Gore-Tex is the sort of thing lesser men build religions around. Sure there are fewer men lesser than George but you get the idea,
Andrew: Elaine’s futile pursuit of bakery justice was my favorite. She has an understandable desire to be served in the order in which she arrived, but making that plea for fairness ends up costing her so much more. Just another proletarian crushed in the gears of capitalism.
Jordan: I’m tempted to go with the bakery stuff as Jerry and Elaine in pure misery was a lot of fun, but it’s George’s coat. He looks like a moron, spills wine, nearly starts an international incident and keeps defending it. It’s Gore-Tex!
Jason: George and Kramer’s adventure is fantastic, but Jerry and Elaine’s bakery saga takes it here. The amount of stuff that goes wrong for them in there is astonishing. Forgetting to pick a number, bumping into the Benedicts, finding a hair in the babka, Elaine getting her foot smashed by a cane, Jerry’s vomit streak ending. I wonder how the marble rye is there?
Ethical Dilemma of the Week
JT: If you walk into a busy bakery and forget to take a number, is it OK to ask people to let you cut? No way. Pay attention to your surroundings! If someone notices you and offers, fine. But to beg? Have some dignity, Laney.
Aaron: Can a cookie solve the world`s race issues? I wish it were that simple because you’d think that once you saw the inherent harmony within the cookie people like the KKK would throw down their ropes in a frenzy of tolerance. Unfortunately people usually prefer the racist, sexist taste of chocolate chips. Such is the nightmare of our modern world.
Andrew: Do people still bring wine to parties? I have literally never done this, but etiquette has never been my strong suit. Now that I’m a semi-responsible adult, is this something I need to start doing? What a nightmare. Don’t get old, kids.
Jordan: I’d be more than OK with someone showing up to my party with Pepsi and ring dings, but if it’s a little fancier, do you HAVE to bring that much stuff? Wine should be more than enough, but wine AND a babka? AND a Penthouse forum? I feel like these people are throwing parties for profit.
Jason: Should you have to bring something when you’re invited to a party? ABSOLUTELY! George’s cheapness is a work of art.
Relationship Scale (Scale 1-10)
JT: Pepsi and Ring Dings. A match made in heaven. The cola goodness and the chocolate heaven. What party wouldn’t benefit from that combo? Calories be damned. Health be damned. Enjoy your life by swinging with the whippets junk food couple in all the land. George now loves the Drake’s. Relationship Grade: Drake’s/10
Aaron: Can we just let Kramer live out his fantasies without the shame? Relationship Grade: I won’t quantify a man’s feelings.
Andrew: Jerry’s so excited for his black-and-white cookie, he constructs a fantastic story about why it’s so important to him, only to end up devastated in a public restroom. I’ve had relationships like that. Relationship Grade: Fourteen years down the drain/10
Jordan: The hot slutty housewife and the amputee is a story for the ages. Romeo and Juliet for the perverts of our time. Relationship Grade: PENTHOUSE/10
Jason: When George and Kramer are left alone, it almost never ends well. George being afraid of Elaine is great. It’s always a treat when everyone gives George shit about something. Well represented here with the Gore-Tex coat and his cheapness. Relationship Grade: Clark Bar/10
What Worked:
JT: The “scary cold” comment into George’s gore-tex appearance was awesome as was Jerry and Elaine smacking the giant coat; The Bubble Boy callback was good; George’s ranting about bringing stuff to a party was completely and perfectly in character, as was his dedication to Pepsi; The throwaway gag about the funeral procession made me chuckle; The babka!; Kramer sticking George with buying the wine was great and just torturous to George; Jerry ripping all the desserts was well done and his cinnamon rant was terrific; Kramer digging into the Clark Bar before George even agrees to buy it; Penthouse Forum!: The random guy yelling at George about his coat in some foreign language is absurd; Jerry nodding to the black guy about the cookie was a nice touch; George’s rants on society always hold a special place in my heart; George yelling at the wrong guy was good for a laugh; Angry Elaine is the best Elaine; The Sadaam Hussein bit was so bizarre that it came back around to funny; The final scene was a great payoff
Aaron: The Gore-Tex coat and everything involved was phenomenal as was George’s completely understandable fear of Elaine. She is a monster after all. Also, Monster Elaine always makes me smile. The lecture on race relations and the breaking down and rating of desserts is exactly the kind of thing I want out of my Seinfeld episodes. One of my favorite Seinfeld tropes rears it’s head again as everyone they deal with are beautifully unreasonable.
Andrew: “Babka” is a wonderfully funny word, and I don’t think I ever would have realized that, if not for this episode. Jerry’s theories on the black-and-white cookie are the most enduring part of the episode, but I’ve always been more interested in Kramer’s out-of-nowhere fascination with the Penthouse Forum. George’s Gore-Tex jacket is a great plot device, looking wonderfully ridiculous and leading to some funny interactions, like the “big coat!” guy or Jerry and Elaine smacking him around. I was surprised by how much I enjoyed Jerry’s “hair in the farina” story, I had never really noticed it before. The vomit streak callback was nice, I like George being scared of Elaine, and the random appearance of a Saddam lookalike was pleasantly absurd.
Jordan: I love George’s fear of Elaine. I also love that he was once late to something because he bought a Panama hat! George’s coat is a great plotline and totally fitting of George. He looked ridiculous, and nobody else would look believable wearing it, but it makes sense for George. Jerry singing the praises of the black and white cookie and comparing it to race relations is good, and made better by the ending where it makes him puke. I LOVE the “Soooorrrry” from the guy who smashes Elaine’s foot with the cane. So weird sounding and random. George and Kramer in the liquor store and the newsstand have excellent chemistry – George frets and overthinks about everything, Kramer doesn’t have a care in the world. I like that George tries to break $100 by buying a pack of gum, which probably cost 50 cents back then. Kramer buying the Penthouse and suggesting he could read it aloud at the party is awesome. The guy bumping into George and getting furious and saying, “BIG COAT!” is good stuff too. And of course, Saddam. I love Saddam randomly appearing here and having a British accent. So much I didn’t even mention.
Jason: So much enjoyment here. Jerry and Elaine slapping George’s coat. George arguing that Pepsi is better than wine. Jerry calling George “bubble boy”. George’s suggestion to buy a nice sectional couch for the party host. Jerry’s bit about the black & white cookie and cinnamon are brilliant. Jerry asking Elaine to carry the bakery box because it’s a tad dainty. The bit about carrot, black forest and Napoleon cakes. Kramer yelling and asking if anyone can change a hundred in the middle of the street. Kramer reading from the Penthouse Forum. Jerry’s vomit streak ending following his bit about the black & white is excellent. Big laughs for his hair in the Farina story. George and Kramer at the newsstand might be the best scene in this episode that had so many laughs. The end is excellent. Here’s you’re fucking cake and wine. We’re outta here!
What Didn’t Work
JT: Jerry’s slacks and sweater combo is brutal; Elaine is quite wrong about not taking a number in the bakery, that is on them, not anyone else; David is really annoying and I always hated the awkward “I know you” sequence; What the hell was up with the guy with the cane?
Aaron: Dude with a cane needs to be killed. Maybe by Kane? Too inside? How about by The Scranton Strangler? Still? Ok just have Optimus Prime kill him.
Andrew: Why the weird dubbing for Saddam? Was it that hard to find an actor who looks like Saddam, and can fake a British accent?
Jordan: The liquor store guy was kind of a punk for making them stand outside when Kramer didn’t have a winter coat on. I also thought Elaine thinking she should get to go ahead of everyone because she forgot to pull a number was selfish.
Jason: The guy with the cane was a major jerk. Jerome and Laney have no one to blame but themselves for not taking a number when they got to the bakery.
Key Character Debuts
– N/A
Iconic Moments, Running Themes & Memorable Quotes
– “This week. My father got a deal from a friend of his. It’s Gore-Tex. You know about Gore-Tex?” – George “You like saying Gore-Tex, don’t you?” – Jerry
– “You mean just going there because I’m invited, that’s rude?” – George “Yeah.” – Elaine “So you’re telling me instead of being happy to see me they’re going to be upset because I didn’t bring anything. You see what I’m saying?” – George “The fabric of society is very complex George.” – Jerry “I don’t even drink wine. I drink Pepsi.” – George “You can’t bring Pepsi.” – Elaine “Why not?” – George “Because we’re adults?” – Elaine “You telling me that wine is better than Pepsi? Huh, no way wine is better than Pepsi.” – George “I’m telling you George, I don’t think we want to walk in there and put a big plastic jug of Pepsi on the table.” – Jerry “I just don’t like the ideas that every time there is a dinner invitation there’s this annoying little chore that goes along with it.” – George “You know, you’re getting to be an annoying little chore yourself.” – Jerry
– “And I got news for you. I show up with Ring Dings and Pepsi, I become the biggest hit at the party. People be coming up to me, “just between you and me I’m really excited about the Ring Dings and the Pepsi. Europeans with the Beaujolais and Chardonnay…” – George
– “Why don’t YOU go into the store and I’LL wait in the car?” – Kramer “Because, I’ve got the coat. I can sit in the car and not get cold.” – George “So what I’m going to leave the car running and the heater’ll be on.” – Kramer “Does the heater even work in this car?” – George “No.” – Kramer
– “Because I don’t like to carry my wallet. My osteopath says it’s bad for my spine. It throws my hips off kilter.” – Kramer
– “That’s cinnamon babka.” – Bakery Clerk “Another babka?” – Jerry
– “No, but they got the chocolate. We’ll be going in with a lesser babka.” – Elaine “I beg your pardon? Cinnamon takes a back seat to no babka. People love cinnamon. It should be on tables at restaurants along with salt and pepper. Anytime anyone says, “Oh This is so good. What’s in it?” The answer invariably comes back, Cinnamon. Cinnamon. Again and again. Lesser babka – I think not.” – Jerry
– “You know there is an unusual number of people in this country having sex with AMPUTEES! . . . Penthouse forum, newspaper, gum, Clark Bar.” – George
– “Uhm, The thing about eating the Black and White cookie, Elaine, is you want to get some black and some white in each bite. Nothing mixes better than vanilla and chocolate And yet somehow racial harmony eludes us. If people would only look to the cookie all our problems would be solved.” – Jerry “Your views on race relations are fascinating. You really should do an op-ed piece for the Times.” – Elaine “Um, um, Look to the cookie Elaine. Look to the cookie.” – Jerry
– “What is wrong with my hair? Nothing. Nobody takes better care of their hair than me. You can serve dinner on my head.” – Elaine “Who needs misty herbal rain water crap they sell in the health food store. I use Prell, the hard stuff. A hundred proof – takes your roots out.” – Jerry
– “I know this is going to sound like a crazy fantasy but every word of this story is true…” [exits to street] ” A weeks days ago my girlfriend happened to mention to me how attractive our new neighbor Linda was…” – Kramer “Look at this? Somebody double parked and blocked us in. DOES ANYBODY KNOW WHOSE CAR THAT IS? Maybe there’s a note on it. No, no note. Can you believe this?” – George “…well of course I noticed it too with those ample breasts and those pouty lips. I don’t have to tell you she was a knock out….” – Kramer
– “I mean we can put a man on the moon but we’re basically still very stupid. The guy who’s car this is? He could be one of the guys who built the rocket. You see what I’m saying?” – George “Yeah, he could build the rocket but he’s still stupid for double-parking and blocking somebody in.” – Kramer “So you really understand my point about building a rocket and double-parking.” – George “Yeah, on one hand he’s smart with rockets and on the other part he’s dumb with parking…It’s cold out here huh?” – Kramer
– “I started screaming, “There’s a hair in my farina. There’s a hair in my farina.” Then I ran out of the house and I was running and running. I was little but I could run very fast. I just kept running and they found me like three hours later collapsed at a construction site.” – Jerry
– “You sold us a hair with a cake around it!” – Elaine
– “I think I got David Duke and Fahrikan down there.” – Jerry “Well if we can’t look to the cookie where can we look?” – Elaine “I feel like I’m going to throw up.” – Jerry “Hey, what about your vomit streak?” – Elaine “I know, I haven’t thrown up since June 29th, 1980.” – Jerry
– “So what did you get?” – George “Cinnamon babka.” – Elaine “Cinnamon? Why didn’t you get chocolate?” – George
Oddities & Fun Facts
– Jerry calls George “Bubble Boy” in a season four callback
– The crew visits Schnitzer’s Bakery for the first time
– Black and white cookies, babka and Gore-Tex coats catch on in pop culture
– David is portrayed by Mark Holton, who also portrayed Francis Buxton in Pee Wee’s Big Adventure
Overall Grade (Scale 1-10)
JT: This was another really great episode with lots of laughs and memorable moments and a few pop culture crossover bits too. I also like the callbacks blended in here with the Bubble Boy and Jerry’s vomit streak. George’s rantings were really well done and even though he bends on his cheapness, he gets caught up in the end and it costs him his beloved coat. Kramer’s dalliance with the Penthouse Forum is great as well. Season Five continues to bring the goods each and every week. Look to the cookie, folks. Final Grade: 9/10
Aaron: How can you not dig an episode where Kramer loves Penthouse, George looks like a balloon and Saddam Hussein shows up for some reason? Final Grade: 8/10
Andrew: The show has been so good during this run, that I hadn’t realized how much I missed the “about nothing” episodes. This was a well-executed return to that form, with the story consisting entirely of the gang trying to get to a party, and the humor coming from their day-to-day interactions with other people. It’s still amazing to me how good the show is at that, when I take the time to appreciate it. Final Grade: 9/10
Jordan: This is an episode that I really like not because of the plot itself but because of all the stuff along the way. I don’t really care about dinner party etiquette or bakery number pulling, but I love George waddling around like the Michelin Man and Kramer reading porn while munching on a Clark bar. Jerry and Elaine are always good together and their growing frustration over a babka was a nice counterpart to George and Kramer. Excellent stuff. Final Grade: 9/10
Jason: When I’m in the mood to throw on a random episode in the series, this offering always works. Jerry was on his A game the entire time with some tremendous bits. Tons of laughs the entire way with some great product name dropping. There’s a reason why this is the greatest show of all time and why this season is so enjoyable. I could watch this episode a hundred times and laugh the entire way every time. I put this episode in a tier just under the elite perfect episodes. Final Grade: 9/10
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Post by sbtbfanatic on Sept 17, 2015 15:33:19 GMT
Seinfeld: The PTBN Series Rewatch – “The Marine Biologist” (S5, E14)
Best Character
JT: George. Everyone was really good in the episode, but he was next level. His flawless lying to Diane and amazing story at the end takes it. One of his finest performances.
Aaron: In an episode full, and I mean FULL of great performances George stands tall above the rest. He brings tension into every room he enters and his passion for fish is only matched by his exuberance as he yells that “Diane mentioned him,” to all that could hear. When he learns of his new career, his sheepish questioning is a work of art and his chastisement of Jerry is the work of a master. He’s comfortable with his own lies damnit! You can almost see him sitting up at night and learning two or three marine facts to impress Diane with. His theories on the evolution of the octopus borders on genius, his dejected look as he enters the sea and his final monologue (that was in one take apparently) easily make this his best performance of the series for me.
Andrew: I thought about it, but I can’t imagine going with anyone but George. His recounting of the whale story is perfection. A truly classic performance.
Jordan: Not only is it George, but anyone who would ever pick anyone but George is wrong and should never watch television again. From his very first line where he gives a lame Jack Nicholson impression, this is his masterpiece.
Jason: There’s no debate here whatsoever. George Louis Costanza, Marine Biologist. His whale story telling at the end is one of his finest moments.
Best Storyline
JT: The marine bioligist for sure. From Jerry’s initial pitch to George yanking the golf ball out of the blowhole, this was masterful storytelling across the board. Everything wove together beautifully and the payoff of Kramer’s ball having led to this incredible moment was genius.
Aaron: George the Marine Biologist should be studied at every writing school across the country. The lie that comes back to bite George in the ass has never been so big or so blubbery. The tie in with Kramer’s day of FUN was sheer brilliance.
Andrew: Again, it’s hard not to choose the Marine Biologist storyline. It’s a brilliantly crafted series of events that lead to George’s inevitable march into the sea. And the tie-in with Kramer’s golfing sub-plot is magnificent.
Jordan: It’s the marine biologist. I love that everything is set up right from the start. George’s first line of the episode is “You can’t handle the truth!” and from there he goes into his love of whales. Then just a minute later, Kramer is ecstatic about the idea of hitting golf balls into the ocean. The stage was set from the start on this one, and it worked out perfectly.
Jason: Everything with the electronic organizer and Testikov are solid subplots, but this episode belongs to George’s little lie about being a marine biologist. Jerry hiked George the ball and he ran with it. All for a woman. Why? Because he can!
Ethical Dilemma of the Week
JT: What is Jerry’s obligation to assist Elaine in clearing the air over the War & Peace mess. He was a dick and lied to her and assumed she knew he was bullshitting, but he ended up making her look stupid in front of a boss and client. He owes Lainey a big one.
Aaron: What the hell is sand’s problem? It does get everywhere. Annakin Skywalker was right as he condemned sand to a young Padme, it needs to go. And that’s not racist to say that sand needs to go. I’m talking about ALL sand. Like if I told you I wanted to rid the word of ALL cats you wouldn’t call me a racist. It’s ALL cats, not just orange cats. I’M NOT RACIST.
Andrew: Who ends up paying Corinne’s hospital bills? She shouldn’t be stuck with them, but it hardly seems fair to make Elaine pay. Do they have to sue Testikov for damages? Why can’t we just have universal health care and avoid all this mess?
Jordan: Testikov should not only have to pay for Corinne’s bills, he should pay Elaine back for the electronic organizer AND he should be forced to go to anger management. He’s a true butthole.
Jason: Let’s set the scene modern times. You’re in a limo with your boss and a Russian authur. Your phone keeps going off and you’re unable to make it stop. The Russian author grabs your phone and throws it out the window. What do you do? An electronic organizer in 1994 was as reliable as a cell phone is today. Pay up, comrade!
Relationship Scale (Scale 1-10)
JT: Come on Diane! Why would she take this out on George? Again, Jerry’s lie cost his friend. Sure, it led to the hero’s moment, but he set Georgie up to fail. Also, the fact that he ISN’T a marine biologist should have impressed The It Girl even more. For shame, DeConn. Relationship Grade: Blowhole/10
Aaron: George’s marriage to the sea is a match that would make that damn Sea Captain from the Simpsons weep a pirate song of joy. It takes balls to tie yourself to the sea or Jesus or adult onset diabetes. Ballsy play Costanza. Relationship Grade: 1,260,000,000,000,000,000,00 Litres/10
Andrew: I’ve never found Diane all that memorable, but I do feel bad that George couldn’t have kept the lie going just a little while longer. Relationship Grade: Took the bus home/10
Jordan: It is weird that someone would ever ask about George, let alone what appears to be a normal human being. Clearly Diane is an alien sent here to harvest us for organs. Relationship Grade: ALIEN/10
Jason: Poor Diane. She fell right into everything. Got to hand it to Jerry for sticking up for George when Diane asked about him. Jerry could have buried him and told Diane the truth about George from the get go. It’s not every day a woman asks about George. A rough episode for Elaine as she gets punked by Jerry with his War & Peace stuff and then has to deal Testikov’s crap. Relationship Grade: Golden Boy/10
What Worked:
JT: Golden Boy; Jerry’s War & Peace story is told with such conviction, poor Elaine; Estelle opening George’s mail is perfect booking; Kramer giving up the electronic organizer while shuffling a ton of junk through his pockets was great; Who wants to have fun?; Kramer’s excitement while pitching the golf outing to the beach was infectious; Jerry is a good friend, repping his buddy to his college crush; Jerry and George talking about Diane for the first time is a tremendous scene; Elaine telling Testikov and Lippman the War & Peace story in the limo is cringeworthy in a good way; The ongoing architect callback is well executed, as is Kramer flipping out about how he sucks at golf; Corinne is delightfully trashy; Jerry and Elaine slowly piecing together the limo incident was well done too; George’s masterful performance on the beach was amazing; The payoff with the tape recorder hitting Corinne and the boot hitting Newman; George’s story at the end is an all time classic, capped with Kramer’s killer line that closes out some beautiful storytelling; The tacked on scene about Golden Boy dying was a nice bookend to the episode
Aaron: Kramer positively killed me with his fight with the sand in his clothes. KILLED ME. I had to pause the show to finish laughing. Why does he have so much fucking sand on him? The K-Man is also tremendous entering and screaming about if anyone wants to have some fun! “Do you really want to have fun or are you just saying you want to have fun,” is still one of my favourite lines to this day. His total dejection and stomping of his golf clubs is such an amazing contrast. Unreasonable Russian writer is fantastic as is unreasonable organizer victim. The payoff of “Is anyone here a marine biologist,” is maybe the best moment in the history of the show. It truly is almost a flawlessly written episode.
Andrew: I hadn’t noticed this until today, but Jerry has a real lying problem. He’s just casually throwing out misinformation, often for no reason beyond his own idle amusement. I respect and admire that. The rest of the episode is great, too. The conversation where Jerry tells George about Diane is fantastic, as is Kramer’s tantrum over his poor golfing and sand in his clothes. Carol Kane was a great guest star, and the random Newman appearance was fun.
Jordan: One of my favorite lines of the series of all time is: THE SEA WAS ANGRY THAT DAY, MY FRIENDS! The fact that Jerry is the one who lies about the marine biology is a fun twist, and George being upset with his lie because he knows his own alleys is great. Jerry and Kramer actually put in really solid performances here, but they’re just playing for second place. I like Golden Boy even though it went nowhere. Elaine in the limo is fun in her cute ignorance, from dropping the “War, what is it good for?” line to not knowing how to turn off the organizer. Testikov reminded me of Elaine’s dad a little bit in that he’s a huge jerk, but is supposed to be. I always enjoy Elaine shoving her friends. I mean really, everything works in this one, doesn’t it?
Jason: Kramer’s golf ball into the ocean moment in Jerry’s apartment should be on every series highlight real. Jerry’s bit about Golden Boy. The tie-in with the golf balls and the whale was excellent writing. Learning that Estelle looks through George’s mail adds to the enjoyment of the relationship that George has with his parents. Corinne is a nut job, but fits the part of someone that would get hit in the head by an electronic organizer. Newman getting hit in the head by Kramer’s boot was a nice touch. Jerry’s tale about Tolstoy’s mistress disapproving the name, “War – What Is It Good For?” always gets a laugh. The final scene is about as perfect as it can get. George was fabulous.
What Didn’t Work
JT: How many bank accounts are these guys opening?; Jerry is obnoxious at the ATM; Testikov is an asshole, but I guess that is the point
Aaron: I didn’t dig all the business with “Golden Boy” nor was a thrilled with Jerry’s obnoxious ATM race. That’s it though. This one was killer.
Andrew: Maybe it’s just me, but I can’t imagine ever loving a yellow shirt that much. Also, never throw out your organizing system until you’re used to the new one! Wouldn’t you want a backup, at least for a little while? You’re killing me, Lainey.
Jordan: George’s shirt in the beginning looks like a tablecloth on Thanksgiving.
Jason: I’m not a fan of Jerry’s leather jacket with the purple sweater combination. Corinne’s stupid hat should be thrown out of a moving limo. Speaking of stupid hats, George’s little red number he wears on the beach is awful. Why didn’t Kramer just hop in the shower to get the sand off of himself?
Key Character Debuts
Diane DeConn, The It Girl
Iconic Moments, Running Themes & Memorable Quotes
– “Elaine, see this T-shirts, six years I’ve had this T-shirts, it’s my best one, I call him…Golden Boy” – Jerry “I’m on the phone here.” – Elaine “Golden Boy is always the first shirt I wear out of the laundry, here touch Golden Boy!” – Jerry “No thanks. Yeah, Yeah I’ll hold.” – Elaine “But see look at the collar, see it’s fraying. Golden Boy is slowly dying. Each wash is brings him one step closer, that’s what makes the t-shirt such a tragic figure.” – Jerry “Why don’t you just let Golden Boy soak in the sink with some Woolite?” – Elaine “No!!! The reason he’s iron man is because he goes out there and plays every game. Wash!!! Spin!!! Rinse!!! Spin!!! You take that away from him, you break his spirit!” – Jerry
– “Hey ya know what I read the most unbelievable thing about Tolstoy the other day, did you know the original title for “War and Peace” was “War–What Is It Good For?”!” – Jerry
– “I’m such a Huge whale fan. These marine biologists were showing how they communicate with each other with these squeaks and squeals, what a fish!” – George “It’s a mammal.” – Jerry “Whatever.” – George
– “Yeah…he specializing in whales. He’s working on lowering the cholesterol level in whales…all that blubber– quite unhealthy. You know its the largest mammal on earth but as George says “they don’t have to be.”” – Jerry
– “OK, I’m tellin’ you right now if your kiddin’ around I’m not gonna be able to be friends with you anymore. I’m serious about that. You got that.” – George “I got no problem with that.” – Jerry “Good. Cause if this is a lie, if this is a joke, if this is your idea of some cute little game…we’re finished!” – George
– “Algae, obviously plankton, I don’t know what else I can tell you, Oh I just got back from a trip to the Galapagos Islands, I was living with the turtles.” – George
– “Well it’s not up my alley! It’s one thing if I make it up. I know what I’m doin, I know my alleys! You got me in the Galapagos Islands livin’ with the turtles, I don’t know where the hell I am.” – George
– “Yeah know somebody told me they thought they saw it coming out of a limousine.” – Corinne “Typical rich people, using the world for their personal garbage can.” – Jerry
– “Then of course with evolution the octopus lost the nostrils and took on the more familiar look that we know today. But if you look really closely you can still see a bump where the nose use to be.” – George “Really?” – Diane “Yeah, but enough about fish I can talk about other things like… architecture…” – George
– “Yes. That’s why I where these sneakers, in case of any trouble and zip, I’m gone.” – Jerry “Yeah, Yeah. The sneakers. The Americans and their sneakers. Always running from something.” – Testikov
– “Yeah I guess I’d better. Wouldn’t want to take any attention away from the hookers!” – Corinne
– George mentions that he always wanted to be an architect in a callback to previous episodes
– Jerry mentions Superman
– “Oh yes they did Jerry they were all over me. It was like Rocky 1. Diane came up to me, threw her arms around me, and kissed me. We both had tears streaming down our faces. I never saw anyone so beautiful. It was at that moment I decided to tell her I was not a marine biologist!” – George
– “This is Golden Boy’s son, Baby Blue.” – George
Oddities & Fun Facts
– Larry David calls for the marine biologist on the beach
Overall Grade (Scale 1-10)
JT: Tremendous, perfect, beautiful storytelling here. When Seinfeld is at its best, it has multiple parallel stories that weave together seamlessly, and we had that here. Everyone was on point and the whole episode just flowed from story to story and then BAM, the payoffs flooded in. Even the last scene was perfectly done, closing out the Golden Boy story that we only heard about once to open the episode. Even though it may have laughed some really big laughs and did have some soft scenes, storytelling like this must be rewarded. Plus, George’s final story is a pantheon moment. Like an old man trying to return soup at a deli. Final Grade: 10/10
Aaron: So one of the greatest moments in the history of the show on top of fantastic performances from all involved makes this easily one of the best episodes to date. Like you have to ask what this one gets. Final Grade: 10/10
Andrew: This episode started a little slower than I remember, and the secondary storylines are just OK. But if I’m being honest, I knew I was giving this episode a 10 before I even watched it. George’s encounter with the whale is a thing of beauty. Final Grade: 10/10
Jordan: Going into this one, I thought MAYBE I would give it a 9 in case it was just a great scene that everyone remembers, but the whole episode is just awesome. How can you not love an episode with a line like, “Is anyone here a marine biologist?” Awesome. Flawless. Seinfeld at it’s best. Final Grade: 10/10
Jason: This episode is all about the payoff in the final scene. George is absolutely fantastic all throughout the episode. The subplots aren’t as good as I remembered, but I’m not going to take that much away, because George makes up for a lot that was lacking. One man and one storyline dominated this episode and outshines anything that might have been missing. Final Grade: 10/10
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Post by sbtbfanatic on Sept 17, 2015 15:33:57 GMT
Seinfeld: The PTBN Series Rewatch – “The Pie” (S5, E15)
Best Character
JT: Very tough choice this go around with all four delivering strong performances. Elaine had some good quick hit lines and lots of anger, which she excels at. George’s manic suit pursuit was great and it all tying together and crumbling at the end was well done. Jerry was really good too, lots of wit and his delivery was spot on. But, I think I have to go with Kramer this time. I liked his storyline the least of all of them but I thought he nailed all his lines and had some real laugh out loud moments. He wins by a razor thin margin.
Aaron: I watched this episode with my three-year old son Jack. I’ve written enough of these things so I figured it’s time he started pulling his weight. It came down to the silly guy (Kramer) and the crazy guy (George). Jack finally settled crazy guy because he wouldn’t eat the pie.
Andrew: I’m going with Jerry. He gets more than his share of great lines in this episode, and his response to seeing Elaine’s mannequin in flagrante delicto is fantastic (“The resemblance is uncanny!”). Also, I’m completely on board with his obsession over Audrey refusing the pie. Turning down food is fine, but give a reason, even if you have to make something up. For once, Jerry’s not the one who made it weird.
Jordan: We are at the point in the series where anytime he has a strong showing, I feel like I need to give it to Jerry. I really liked him this episode, and this may fully be a “MJ is always the best, let’s give the MVP to someone else this time” type reward, but I don’t care. Jerome came through strong.
Jason: The core four were all tremendous. Olive was a sweetheart. Audrey was out of her mind. Poppie was a little sloppy, but Jerry gets the duke here. He took just about all he could from Audrey and Poppie. Jerry has done plenty wrong in the past, but I have his back with everything here.
Best Storyline
JT: Lots to pick from here, but I will go with the mannequin. It led to some fun jokes and random, funny moments all throughout, right down to the payoff with Ricky’s return. The erotic pose and George seeing it naked were well done too.
Aaron: The whole pie story was lost on him, except for the “silly” faces when everyone was refusing to eat the pie. So let’s go with people versus pie.
Andrew: It’s a close call, but the pie storyline wins it for me. Mainly I love the recurring shot of characters shaking their heads at an offered dessert, which provides a nice through line for the episode. Poppy being sloppy was solid, too; if we count that as part of the pie storyline, it’s a clear winner.
Jordan: George’s suit is really good, but the final reveal of Elaine’s mannequin story clinches it for me. I love the idea that a freak she met on the subway is out there mass producing Elaine mannequins. Also, I would like to purchase one.
Jason: Very good stuff all around. I really liked everything with George and the suit. Kramer’s itch is full of laughs as is the mannequin that looks like Elaine. Once again though, everything with Jerry, Audrey and Poppie takes it here.
Ethical Dilemma of the Week
JT: Should Jerry have just sucked it up and eaten the pizza? I mean, the urine and germs likely cooked off in the super hot pizza oven, but I guess it comes down to whether or not he has a future with Audrey. I think they were doomed from the minute she refused that pie, so I can’t blame Jerry all the way. If it was someone he was really into, though, I would tell him to man up and eat Poppy’s PeePee Pizza.
Aaron: “Why is that lady stealing that thing?” I thought I’d have a few more years before I had to start dealing with the big questions… It was immediately followed up with “Is she a bad guy.” I had no choice but to say yes at which point Jack demanded that the cops and Superman be called.
Andrew: Should you give a reason when refusing food? Seems like a no-brainer to me. What are you, a psycho?
Jordan: Here’s the thing – there is a chance Poppy washed his hands in the kitchen. Maybe he knew that by washing them there, then touching a few doorknobs, he would just re-germ everything. However, there is no excuse for Angry Fat Guy to seek such revenge against George. George is well within his rights to hide a sought after item in a store. I would probably do the same thing, I just wouldn’t rub it in the guys face.
Jason: If I’m in the bathroom of a restaurant and the owner of the place walks out of that bathroom without washing up, you bet your ass I’m making a call to the Board of Health. Jerry obviously has his issues with Audrey, so ratting out her father for having pissy hands wouldn’t be that big a deal.
Relationship Scale (Scale 1-10)
JT: Kramer and Mannequin Elaine could have really been a hot item that ran roughshod over the Big Apple, but we don’t get to follow it through. It would have been a real Weekend at Bernie’s situation, but if anyone can bang an inanimate object and make it work, it is the K-Man. Oh, and Audrey sucks. Relationship Grade: Doublemint Threesome/10
Aaron: “What’s she doing to his back?” If only I could tell him the truth and say pleasuring him. Can one build a relationship around an itch? If my son’s reactions are any indicator than yes, you can build a HILLARIOUS one. Relationship Grade: Are we not doing numbers any more?
Andrew: Audrey has some attractive qualities, but shaking off pie is not one of them. That’s a deal breaker, ladies. On the other end of the spectrum, I was fully invested in the relationship between Kramer and Olive. How could Kramer kick her to the curb so easily? Is he that sure he’s never going to develop another itch? Why won’t he give love a chance? Relationship Grade: Funky Adventure/10
Jordan: Olive and Kramer really had something going, and then he lost the itch. It’s a tragic tale of once hot relationships cooling off. They should make sure the itch never goes away. For all you married folks out there, take time to MAKE scratching a part of your routine. Nobody wants to know their spouse or significant other no longer wants their back scratched. Relationship Grade: SON OF AN ITCH/10
Jason: Audrey is completely nuts. A pretty face, but her antics are uncalled for. I absolutely adore Olive. Kramer should have hung on to her after he lost his itch. Is their a sex tape on the web of Kramer and the mannequin? George got one over on Bob with the suit, but George refusing pie at the meeting might not have got him the job, but it saved his ass from getting food poisoning from Bob lacing the pie. Relationship Grade: 40-Short/10
What Worked:
JT: George’s excitement at the people mover idea was great, as was Elaine’s advice for Jerry to dump Audrey; Kramer using the spatula to scratch his back always makes me chuckle; The saleswoman being bitchy to Elaine was good, especially the eye roll; George’s French accent was great as was his getting a glimpse of the Elaine mannequin naked; The pie stuff is right in Jerry’s wheelhouse; Poppy!; The hand washing stuff was perfect to happen to a neat freak like Jerome, and the open kitchen with Poppy kneading the dough was well done; George’s suit scheme was brilliantly done, and again he is a tragic figure with the swooshing noise; Elaine’s suspect list scene was funny and relatable; The erotic mannequin setup and George trying to hide the swooshing; The Doublemint gum line breaks me every time; Nice tie-in at the end with George refusing the pie and not getting the job; Kramer making out with the mannequin was funny
Aaron: Jack laughed when George strutted around in the suit, as well as when anyone refused food. When I asked him what he liked about the show he said “I don’t know.” I guess I enjoyed George’s awe at Jerry’s idea for the moving walkways, as well as Mackenzie being you typical Seinfeldian businessman. Unreasonable to a fault and yet not so far from someone we’ve probably met. Elaine’s meanness is always welcome as she instructs Jerry to dump Audrey before later exposing him as a psycho. Kramer describing back scratching as a “Wild, savage free for all,” seems downright perfect for him to say.
Andrew: Poppie stretching the dough after his trip to the bathroom was pretty great. Elaine’s doppelgänger mannequin was really well designed: close enough to be unmistakable, but no so identical that the saleswoman couldn’t deny the resemblance (speaking of which, her eye roll was perfect). “Kramer has an itch” doesn’t sound like much of a storyline, but he really makes it work (“Elaine, scratch my back…it’ll be a funky adventure”).
Jordan: Jerry really was great throughout this one. I know the series becomes a running list of superficial reasons to end a relationship, but I am with him here. Audrey refusing to explain why she won’t eat pie, even though she clearly enjoys pie, is disturbing. I also thought George was great throughout this one, with the love of the moving walkway idea and the whole suit battle with the other dude. Elaine dealing with the lady in the store was fun, and I liked the woman treating Elaine like a second class citizen for no real reason. Poppy not washing his hands and Jerry’s reaction is really well done. And of course, Ricky at the end of the episode was a great capper.
Jason: Kramer posing like the mannequin in Jerry’s appartment. George’s, “May I help you?” to Bob at Rinitze’s. George hiding the suit so he can grab it when the sale starts. Kramer scratching his back with Jerry’s spatula. Jerry leaving the tip for the old ladies. Jerry’s Doublemint gum reference in the car with Elaine and the mannequin. Kramer’s reaction after Olive scratches is back for the first time. George’s expression when the saleswomen strips down the mannequin. Poppie zipping up and leaving the bathroom followed by Jerry’s blank look in the bathroom, then when he gets back to the table with Audrey, Poppie sticking his hands in the dough. Jerry nodding off Audrey when he refuses to eat the pizza. The flowers Kramer gets Olive fits her perfectly. The Elaine mannequin bent over getting spanked. The payoff with Ricky being the designer of the mannequin. Kramer making out with the mannequin to end the episode is terrific.
What Didn’t Work
JT: Audrey is super annoying immediately with her refusal to try the pie; The suit George is obsessed with is brutally awful; The Kramer itch storyline had some good one liners but overall was a fairly weak angle; The urine would have cooked off, don’t be a bitch Jerome
Aaron: When I asked Jack what he didn’t like he told me, “There was no poop,” before laughing and leaving the room. I’ll go with Audrey being a terrible actress. Look at her closely; every line she says she leans in and opens her eyes wide. It makes every line she says completely unbelievable. People don’t do that. Aliens pretending to be people might, but there isn’t enough subtext to prove that theory. Clearly a bad habit and something that should have kept her from being cast. Maybe she was banging Larry David or Alec Berg. And yes I can say bang, Jack has gone to bed.
Andrew: I try not to pick on the wardrobe too much, but I can’t get over how ugly George’s suit was. It was clearly not worth all the effort he put into it. I also found the saleswoman’s Inspector Clouseau accent distracting.
Jordan: George’s suit looked like it was made from a potato sack. I usually like Kramer’s physical comedy, but I thought this one was a bit much. He made up for it by making out with a mannequin in the end, but his reaction to being scratched just seemed goofy.
Jason: Bob’s shirt the first time he goes in Rinitze’s is awful. Audrey belongs on a shrink’s couch. Thumbs down on George’s suit.
Key Character Debuts
Poppy
Iconic Moments, Running Themes & Memorable Quotes
– “Maybe she’s diabetic.” – George “No. She carries Entemanns doughnuts in her purse.” – Jerry
– “I got a pebble.” – Elaine “Boy, I never heard of that happening to a woman?” – Jerry “What the hell does that mean?” – Elaine
– “It’s uncanny! It’s like they chopped off your arms and legs, dipped you in plastic, and screwed you back all together, and stuck you on a pedestal. It’s really quite exquisite.” – Kramer
– “Wait a minute, Rinitze? Don’t they have somme really cool suits in there?” – George “Real Boss!” – Kramer
– “What are you saying, that I’m not good enough for this hideous dress? Listen Natasha… I wouldn’t be caught dead wearing your crummy little euro-trash rags.”
– “You were full. So you gave a reason. You didn’t just shake your head.” – Jerry “No, I’m not a psycho.” – Woman
– “Hey, Elaine scratch my back.” – Kramer “No way!” – Elaine “Come on, one lap around.” – Kramer “No.” – Elaine “It will be a funky adventure.” – Kramer
– “You know honey for an unadvertised sale, you’re doing a lot of yapping about it.” – George
– “Audrey, I got to be honest with you. I’m a very curious guy. It’s my nature. I need to know things. Not tasting the apple pie the other day, I can’t get past it. You obviously like pies. You carry doughnuts in your bag, you’re not averse to pastry. Surely you could see how such a thing would prey on my mind.” – Jerry
– “Even if you’re not gonna soap up, at least pretend for my benefit. Turn the water on, do something.” – Jerry “Yeah, just like I do.” – George “You know a chef who doesn’t wash is like a cop who steals. It’s a cry for help, he wants to get caught.” – Jerry “Well, I think Poppie’s got some problems. There’s a whole other thing going on with Poppie.” – George
– “Yeah. My lady friend down at Monks. You guys ought to see the way she works her nails across my back. Ohh! She’s a maestro. The crisscross. The figure eight, strummin’ the ol’ banjo, and this wild, savage free-for-all where anything can happen.” – Kramer
– “Is that Elaine mannequin still there?” – Kramer “Yeah. The last time I saw her, she was naked.” – George “Yeah, and Poppie’s got problems…” – Jerry
– “I hope you rot in that suit. I’m gonna get you for this. I don’t know how, but I’m gonna get you. You are going to pay!” – Bob “Oh, I’ll pay. Half-price. Arrivederci my fellow 40-short.” – George
– “Yep. Sat down, had herself a piece of pie.” – Kramer “Was it apple?” – Jerry “What else?” – Kramer
– “Well, I believe there’s some legal precedent – Winchell vs. Mahoney” – Jerry
– “What do they want from Poppy?” – Audrey “Well, Poppy’s a little sloppy.” – Jerry
– Ricky the Mannequin Maker is a callback to The Cigar Store Indian (S5, E10)
Oddities & Fun Facts
– Audrey is portrayed by Suzanne Snyder, who also portrayed Eva in The Limo (S3, E19)
Overall Grade (Scale 1-10)
JT: I laughed a lot in this one. For any other sitcom, this is probably a perfect score because there was tons to love. But on the Seinfeld Scale? It ranks in just below the truly great episodes. There were some slow spots but the dialogue was really crisp throughout and the mannequin storyline was brilliant. Audrey was unlikeable but we get introduced to Poppy, which is a nice win as well. In a juggernaut season like this one, this episode is a middle of the order, reliable bat that adds super depth to a hall of fame squad. Final Grade: 8/10
Aaron: Well my son sure liked it. He laughed, mostly when I did, but in truth he may have just been happy to be up past 11:30. Perhaps he was delirious. This one was fine. Let’s move on. Final Grade: 6/10
Andrew: This episode falls into the rapidly growing category of “really entertaining, but not one of the best”. After it made me laugh so consistently, it feels a bit unfair to judge an episode that harshly. But this deep into one the greatest runs in television history, they can’t all be classics. Final Grade: 8/10
Jordan: This was fun. I did enjoy everything tying together, with George and Jerry both refusing to eat pie and not offering an explanation. For the third time, the Ricky bit was awesome. However, I didn’t like Kramer a whole lot this time out. Mostly good stuff with a dull subplot of the backscratcher. Final Grade: 7/10
Jason: Every plot served a purpose. From Bob being the chef at the restaurant to Ricky being the designer of the Elaine mannequin. Lots of laughs from Kramer’s itch, the mannequin, George’s swishy suit and the debut of Poppie. Thisn’t isn’t a perfect episode, but deserves plenty of praise. Winner, winner, piss infested pizza for dinner. Final Grade: 8/10
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Post by sbtbfanatic on Sept 17, 2015 15:34:40 GMT
Seinfeld: The PTBN Series Rewatch – “The Stand-In” (S5, E16)
Best Character
JT: Oh Mickey! The Mick was a force in his debut. His bragging about standing in for Punky Brewster, his brawl with Kramer, his angry, defensive barking at all his friends, it all was fantastic. Kramer had a strong performance here, as did George, but Mickey was easily the best of the bunch.
Aaron: Perhaps because he can never say his girlfriend’s name properly but George takes it for me here. He’s just so comfortably honest about his spite and malice towards Al. It was close with Elaine’s awesome reaction to “It,” but George busted me up the most.
Andrew: Her role is on the smaller side, but I’m going with Elaine. Her reaction to and recounting of Phil exposing himself is just that good. And her laughing-while-telling-a-story routine remains as charming as ever. Elaine is the best.
Jordan: Gotta go with Mickey. I always felt he was an underrated character on the show, as he usually knocks his appearances out of the park. His debut here is terrific, struggling with heightening to keep up with a growing young boy, fighting Kramer and putting the moves on the ladies. Good stuff.
Jason: Elaine’s reaction to Phil taking his junk out and her delivery when telling Jerry about it is Emmy worthy, but my heart belongs to Mickey here. It’s hard to top an angry and aggressive little person.
Best Storyline
JT: Mickey’s height issues had this locked down…until Phil took it out. It was a short piece of the episode, but building up Phil as this great guy only to have him toss his junk on the table in front of an unsuspecting Elaine was perfect writing. Elaine and Jerry’s conversation was top notch and I love how Kramer knew what she meant right away.
Aaron: George deciding that spending the rest of his life with a woman he genuinely dislikes is preferable to proving some random guy right. I believe he would have married her, I believe he would have slit his wrists while listening to “White Christmas.”
Andrew: “He took it out.” What a perfect summary of a baffling event. I love everyone’s reaction to it: Elaine’s bemused world-weariness, Jerry being horrified to learn this about his friend, George admiring the chutzpah, and Kramer playing devil’s advocate (“Sometimes they need air!”). It’s not the biggest storyline, but it’s one of my favorites.
Jordan: Genuinely tough choice here because I really like all of them except Jerry’s quest to make Fulton laugh. Mickey wearing lifts is good, George being committed to someone he actively dislikes just to prove someone wrong, and Phil taking it out. I think I’ll give it to George here just to mix it up a bit.
Jason: Touch choice between little person problems and a guy whipping his cock out in the car with a woman. I gotta go with Phil taking it out by a foreskin. Jerry built Phil up as a good guy, which he was until fantastic writing comes in to play and throws Elaine off guard big…small…average time.
Ethical Dilemma of the Week
JT: There were actually quite a few here. What obligation does Jerry have to help save Fulton through laughter? How far does George have to go to prove Al right? Can’t he just want to dump the awful Daphne and not have it be about commitment? And when is it OK to whip your penis out if you aren’t asked to? A…friend once told me, once you at least are in the process of making out, you are probably OK to give it a go. No?
Aaron: If you think breastfeeding in public is wrong or disgusting you probably need a lesson in human anatomy. When did we decide that breasts and female nipples would blind our children’s eyes and turn us all into deviants? I’ve been looking at breasts literally all my life and I turned out GREAT. I love breasts and I love celebrating breasts. I would host a fucking breast party right now if I could conjure up the women to participate. Imagine the cake. Also if you hate public breast feeding, but the night before pulled out your dick on a date you’re an asshole.
Andrew: If you find out your friend is exposing himself on first dates, do you have stop hanging out with him? I feel like you have to make some attempt to let him know that kind of thing is out of line.
Jordan: I feel like Mickey’s peers shunning him is a rotten thing to do. They’re actors! Mickey heightening is no different than donning makeup, he was simply doing what was necessary for the role. Perhaps he is a pioneer for little people, and could have kept heightening until he landed roles playing NBA basketball players and giants. But his own friends prevented that.
Jason: Is it right to get into a shoving match with a little person? Let’s talk dicks for a second. Is it ever OK to just unzip and pull it out? Do you wait until she asks to see it? Phil went from solid guy to complete creep pretty fast.
Relationship Scale (Scale 1-10)
JT: Daphne sucks. George should have told her and Al to screw. Relationship Grade: 0/10
Aaron: The nineties were a different time Elaine. You could pull your dick out without the threat of being arrested and having a social media campaign destroy your life. I’m not longing for the good old days or saying that it’s even acceptable but he was playing by some different rules… Relationship Grade: 6.5 (I’m guessing)/10
Andrew: I realize this was the point, but Daphne sucks. Phil really needs to work on his signal reading. And I’m not crazy about how quickly Tammy kicked Mickey aside for Johnny. I’m starting to think this show has a bit of a callous attitude toward romance. Relationship Grade: Nothing beats rock/10
Jordan: When George is the likable one in a relationship, there are issues. Daphne was awful and George should have just stopped trying to prove a point and moved on with his life. Relationship Grade: I PREFER VELMA/10
Jason: Mickey and Johnny’s little person rivalry was great. Al should have minded his own business and not told Daphne that George can’t commit and will end up hurting her. Pretty sure Daphne would have found that out on her own. Nevertheless, George was wasting his time with Daphne anyway. Poor Jerry got put in a tough spot trying to cheer up Fulton. I think Phil and Elaine could have had a good thing if he kept it in his pants a little longer. Relationship Grade: Purple-Headed Solider Man/10
What Worked:
JT: Mickey!; Great idea with the soap opera stand in stuff; Kramer’s cigarette suggestion was fantastic as was George’s “midget” slip up; Poor Jerry’s brutal stand up choke job was rough to watch in a fun way; George’s relationship gets hosed again by outside forces; The acting in the soap opera is fantastic and “Now, Porter” makes me crack up every time; Kramer’s dramatic take on the scene while in standing in, capped by poking Mickey with the pipe, was awesome; The politics of the little people on the soap opera set was really well done; Jerry’s “I have my health” line right in front of Fulton is good; “That pimple”; The fight between Kramer and Mickey made me chuckle; Father/Son Picnic ranks pretty high on the excuse list; Phil, that sly dog, taking it out; IT!; OUT!: I love how Kramer immediately knew what Elaine meant with “he took it out”; Phil’s breast feeding issues were well done; Mickey smacking Kramer’s hand in rock, paper, scissors match is one of my all time favorite moments; Poor Mickey, but his exit rant is a good piece of business; Funny bit at the end to tie all the Pachyderm stuff together;
Aaron: I dug pretty much everything with George and his attempts to prove Al wrong. I already mentioned Elaine’s reaction to Phil’s thing but here scene with Jerry in the aftermath is pretty great. I thought’s Kramer’s “It needs air” defense of the penis outing while thoughtful was perhaps a little mislead (and funny). Kramer and Mickey’s decision that nothing beats rock and their eternal game that follows is also pretty great.
Andrew: I really feel for George on the “we’re both boring” thing, and for his resolve to keep the relationship going out of spite. Jerry’s “If I were a woman, I’d be down at the dock waiting for the fleet to come in” always makes me laugh. So does George coming up with “Father-Son Picnic” as an excuse. Mickey and Kramer have great chemistry right off the bat, and their Rock-Paper-Scissors scene is especially good. The “heightening” storyline overall isn’t that great, but the “I’m Mickey Abbott!” speech is quality stuff. Similarly, I’m not a big fan of Jerry’s struggles making Fulton laugh, but ending the episode with his act literally “killing” is pretty good. All that said, the majority of the episode pales in comparison to the stuff with Elaine, which is just gold.
Jordan: Mickey and Kramer are a great dynamic. Kramer telling Mickey to offer the kid some cigarettes and Mickey hating Tony was entertaining. Elaine was awesome in her date scene and even moreso in describing it to Jerry. Jerry’s response was good and the cut to George hearing the story was well done. I liked his comment about never thinking to take his own clothes off. Phil taking it out, then being disgusted by breastfeeding. Mickey and Kramer both thinking rock beats everything.
Jason: Kramer having a little person as a friend is perfect. Speaking of which, Mickey is the (little) man! Kramer’s boss aviator sunglasses. Kramer poking Mickey with the pipe when they hug during the stand-in. George’s father-son picnic excuse he feeds to Daphne. Elaine’s deer in head lights look when she sees that Phil took it out is incredible. Elaine’s delivery when telling Jerry about Phil whipping it out is done to perfection. Kramer’s reaction to Phil taking it out is also well done. He knew right away what Elaine was talking about. Mickey and Kramer playing rock, paper, scissors. Tammy is a solid (Wisconsin) 7 on the little person hottie scale. I dig Johnny’s tough guy little person gimmick he has going on.
What Didn’t Work
JT: Al is a weirdo and an asshole; The way George says “Daphne” annoys me; I want to know the full pachyderm story!; Daphne is really annoying
Aaron: I’ve never been a fan of Mickey and his storyline here so pretty much everything to do with him (save for Kramer’s physical bits) fall into this category for me. I do like that they build a little people world and rules, but I find the acting and story they decide to tell with said world/rules just doesn’t work for me here. Why is Jerry a completely different style of comedian in the hospital room than he is during the intros to the shows? The writing felt lacking for me in this one as for the first time in a while it felt like four separate stories being forced together as opposed to one well written piece with all the characters woven together. It’s as though these were some great ideas they wanted to use but couldn’t fit them into anything else so they threw them together.
Andrew: Everyone’s trying so hard in this episode: Kramer’s overacting, George is desperately trying to get a conversation going, Jerry’s bombing in the hospital room. It’s all for the sake of the plot, but I feel like it made the first half of the episode kind of tiring. Also, Phil’s anti-breastfeeding stance is really off-putting. The joke is on his double standards, but it just amazes me that anyone would find breastfeeding inappropriate.
Jordan: Daphne was a jerk. I didn’t like the Jerry and Fulton story at all.
Jason: Laney’s brown flower dress and Jerry’s blue sweater were both hideous. Oh, and Daphne completely sucks! She’s ranks towards the bottom on George’s girlfriend list.
Key Character Debuts
Mickey Abbott
Fulton
Phil Titolla
Iconic Moments, Running Themes & Memorable Quotes
– “I’m bored. She’s boring, I’m boring, we’re both boring. We got out to eat, we both read newspapers.” – George
– “Deeply in love. If you can’t say anything bad about a relationship, you shouldn’t say anything at all.” – George
– “Na no, I’m not good in these situations. I can’t hide my pity. I…I make em feel worse.” – George “Oh, stop it.” – Jerry “Ya and also I’m afraid that people in that state are finally going to tell me what they really think of me. You know they got nothing to lose what do they care?” – George
– “But I got a big problem. The kid I stand in for, he’s growing. He was four feet last month, now he’s like four-two and a half. He shot up two and a half inches. I can do four-two, four-three is a stretch, any higher than that and I’m gonna be out on my ass doing that paralegal crap.” – Mickey
– “How do you stop a kid from growing?” – Jerry “I told you, you should offer him some cigarettes.” – Kramer “I offered him cigarettes, but his stupid mother is hanging around. She won’t let him have any.” – Mickey
– “Oh don’t worry, you’ll crack. Cracking’s inevitable, first you crack then you chuckle. That was the motto with the Russians at the Caesar Leningrad… first you crack then you chuckle. You know because Leningrad when the Nazis attacked, it wasn’t a very happy time… because of the war, famine, plus it was cold, very cold… they were eating each other. Maybe this isn’t a good time for a visit.” – Jerry
– “Ya you look different.” – Johnny “You don’t, you got the same ugly mug since the day I met ya.” – Mickey
– “I’m very good with sick people. They love me. When my friend Len Nicodemo had the gout, I moved into his hospital room for three days, the doctors were amazed at his recovery.” – Kramer
– Add Len Nicodemo to the list of Kramer’s never seen before friends
– “Oh, he’s always been jealous of me. I always get to stand in for the bigger stars; The Cosby Kids, Ricky Schroder, Macaulay Culkin.” – Mickey “What’s he like huh?” – Kramer “He’s a good kid.” – Mickey
– “You don’t understand. There’s an unwritten code about this kind of thing. I could be ostracized. I remember when I was a kid, some guy tried to heighten. He lost his job, lost his friends, Everything. Oh, I knew I was crazy to try this kind of thing, but I was so desperate. What is this kid taking anyway? Hormones? Steroids? Would you tell me!?” – Mickey
– “Well Dad’s been planning this for such a long time, he bought a new blanket, and he got tha…that game with foam paddles and the Velcro ball.” – George
– “No he’s not right. Al Netchie is not right! all right I’m canceling the father-son picnic. I don’t know what he’s gonna do with all that potato salad.” – George
– “He took it out.” – Elaine “He what?” – Jerry “He took it out.” – Elaine “He took what out?” – Jerry “It.” – Elaine “He took It, Out?” – Jerry “Yessiree Bob.”- Elaine “He couldn’t.” – Jerry “He did.” – Elaine
– “It.” – Jerry “It.” – Elaine “Out.” – Jerry “Out.” – Elaine “Well I, I can’t believe this. I know Phil, he, he’s a good friend of mine. We play softball together. How could this be?” – Jerry “Oh it be.” – Elaine
– “Maybe uh, it needed some air. You know sometimes they need air, they can’t breathe in there. It’s in human.” – Kramer
– “Wow. I spend so much time trying to get their clothes off, I never thought of taking mine off.” – George
– “Wait a second, wait a second, you got me all wrong. It was all because of the kid. The kid was growing. He shot up two and a half inches in a month. I woulda’ lost my job. Any one of you would have done the same. You got no right! I’m Mickey Abbott! I stood in for Punky Brewster when all of you was nothing. It’s all his fault. It was his idea.” – Mickey
Oddities & Fun Facts
N/A
Overall Grade (Scale 1-10)
JT: So, I was about ready to rate this one a tier lower than most this season. The Phil exposed himself and the world changed. The back end of the episode was quite strong, with Phil’s brash actions, Mickey’s rantings and Jerry killing Fulton. Even during the slower first half, the dialogue was pretty good across the board. It is still one of the weaker offerings of the season, but it doesn’t drop off too far thanks to strong delivery and some inane situations. Also, there were a lot of funny random names and people in this episode, and that always makes me laugh. Plus, that damn rock, paper, scissors hand smack from Mickey gets me every time. Final Grade: 6/10
Aaron: This one felt just there for me, which at this point in Seinfeld is unacceptable. While I did enjoy George and Elaine the rest fell flat for me and the writing disappointed. This is the worst episode I’ve seen in a while. Final Grade: 4/10
Andrew: Not the show’s best work. Frankly, I was really underwhelmed until the “took it out” scene took it up a notch. The episode overall needs work, but that scene counts for a lot in my book. Final Grade: 7/10
Jordan: This was pretty good, better than I remember actually. Phil taking it out definitely brings the episode up a few points, as we were chugging along at a decent pace before that, but nothing too memorable outside of the Mickey debut. George turned in a fine performance, but I never really love it when he’s the “good” person in a storyline, and Daphne was terrible. I didn’t like Jerry’s storyline at all, and thought the bit at the end with Fulton dying of laughter was just stupid. I’ll give this one a rating right in the middle. Had some good, had some bad, Phil took it out, a man died. Final Grade: 5/10
Jason: With the exception of a penis and little people drama, this episode was a chore to get through. I don’t say that about many episodes this far into the series, but this was a rough one. So I’ll go three points for Mickey being so awesome and three points for Phil showing Elaine who he was. Final Grade: 6/10
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Post by sbtbfanatic on Sept 17, 2015 15:35:01 GMT
Seinfeld: The PTBN Series Rewatch – “The Wife” (S5, E17)
Best Character
JT: Some tough choices here as I really liked the chemistry between Jerry and Meryl and I thought Elaine was on point, but I have to go with George. He wasn’t in a ton, but he crackled in every scene he was in. He non stop defense of pissing in the shower was so full of spirit and soul that you wanted to side with him regardless of your feelings on the situation. Plus, the payoff with the sweaty machine was nicely done. IT’S ALL PIPES!
Aaron: Perhaps if Uncle Leo’s hurricane of insult and despair had gone on longer he’d take it, but as it stands I have to go with George. He probably could have won this category by simply dressing like a blueberry but his speech/fit about pipes has always been a favorite of mine. Add a little spiteful vengeance to Costanza’s maligned life and you have a recipe for a winner.
Andrew: Feels like a bit of a weak field this week, but I’ll go with Elaine. The way she acts out flirting will always be funny to me; it’s something to do with the constant movement and trunk twists, I think. The fights with George over peeing in the shower are quite good, too. And the suspender snap she does with her workout gear is a classic.
Jordan: I had typed out a couple sentences of why I picked George, but I erased them and switched my pick to Elaine. George and Elaine is a fun combo and I enjoyed the dilemma of George’s shower piss getting him booted from the gym, and how it weighed on her. Her flirting is fun, and her inner monologue about how good she looks was nice too.
Jason: The K-Man was fantastic, Uncle Leo’s role was brief and quite funny, but I’ll go with George Costanza: Public Urinator. He didn’t dominate the episode, but no one can defend themselves in a situation like this better than him.
Best Storyline
JT: Kramer’s blackface gets an honorable mention but I really enjoyed the wife stuff. Jerry and Meryl worked off each other very well and getting Uncle Leo involved was perfect writing. But… who has THAT much dry cleaning?
Aaron: I guess George pissing in the drain. Honestly this was a pretty weak week for storylines. Nothing really grabbed me.
Andrew: I liked Elaine trying to suss out Greg’s interest the most. Even putting my enjoyment of Elaine’s flirting style aside, there’s plenty of humor to be found in trying to interpret the (often inadvertent) signals of someone you’re interested in. I’ve got to figure out Greg’s secret, though: I’ve been trying the “don’t pay attention and ignore” approach for years, with far less success. Add in George’s shower etiquette issues, and this is a pretty solid storyline.
Jordan: George frantically trying to not get turned in for being a public urinator. The wife stuff was pretty good, but I think there was too much of it and some of it felt a bit forced. With George, nothing was forced, it all flowed freely into the pipes!
Jason: I really enjoyed everything with Jerry and Meryl, but George getting caught pissing in shower takes it. Great writing with douchebag Greg being the guy who caught him.
Ethical Dilemma of the Week
JT: Was Meryl right to take advantage of the very generous 25% discount offer? I mean, it was such a grand gesture over just a returned picture, I feel like it was bad karma to jump in on the action like that. Too many quilts!
Aaron: Are you a dick if you don’t wipe down a machine after using it? As a guy who worked in a gym for six years: yes. Yes you are. Not only is it a complete lack of respect for everyone else in the room but you have no idea how it feels to field that complaint. Gym members are assholes and think they own the place because they pay a membership fee. Whether it’s complaining to the staff about another member stinking, or complaining that a classroom is 68 degrees instead of 67 believe me the awkward situations these fools put the staff through are innumerable. What exactly are you hoping to achieve by complaining about a guy not wiping down the machine. Why don’t you just tell him since you feel you own the fucking place? Nope! You come and tell me and I have to take the walk of shame over to the inconsiderate douche and ask him to wipe his sweat off the machine. Unbeknownst to both of us by now an old man has already jumped on said machine and is now swimming in used sweat. The kicker? He’s not using a towel either. And so the cycle continues…
Andrew: If you see someone who has clearly overdone it with the tanning bed, should you say something? It seems safe to assume they’re aware of the problem, and have probably been hearing about it all day. On the other hand, if I was walking around looking like a damn fool and no one said anything, I wouldn’t be too happy about it. Maybe best to avoid artificial tanning altogether.
Jordan: Who kisses women on the lips like that? I even think the kiss on the cheek as a greeting or goodbye is somewhat rare, but going in for the lips? Greg is a weirdo and Elaine was justified in all her confusion.
Jason: What’s worse at the gym, catching someone pissing in the shower or someone not wiping down a machine when they’re done? I find them both disgusting and both call for a gym membership to be revoked.
Relationship Scale (Scale 1-10)
JT: I liked Jerry and Meryl a lot and she instantly jumps to the top tier of Jerome’s lady friends. Greg sucks. Relationship Grade: Pancakes/10
Aaron: Jerry and Meryl did nothing but fight, but hey…that’s marriage! Right? Right. Right… Greg was a dick and didn’t deserve Elaine. I think our best hope is Kramer and Anna. Their sex romp is such a nice contrast to Jerry and Meryl’s “I love you” fest. Relationship Grade: 6/10
Andrew: So many doomed relationships, whether it’s Jerry and Meryl moving too fast, Elaine and Greg never getting off the ground, or Kramer requiring sensitivity training. Relationship Grade: He’d Just Crave My Germs/10
Jordan: Jerry and Meryl seemed OK at first, but about halfway through, I grew tired of her, so I can only imagine how Jerry felt. I can only assume she was so crushed by this breakup that she changed her name and relocated in New York. Relationship Grade: Miss Chanandaler Bong/10
Jason: Kramer and Anna seemed to have a good thing going, until he falls asleep in the tanning bed. Elaine gets caught up between taking the side of her good friend George and dickhead Greg. Jerry and Meryl were terrific together, but who’s she to say that her and Jerry are married? All she wants to do is mooch his dry cleaning discount. Mooching off Jerry is Kramer’s shtick. Relationship Grade: Maple Syrup/ 10
What Worked:
JT: Jerry and Meryl have pretty good chemistry despite how over the top they are; The Monk’s owner always makes me laugh; Kramer’s quilt; George getting caught peeing in a public shower is such a perfect George transgression; Jerry’s medical journals quip always makes me chuckle; The Uncle Leo discovery was perfect; The penmanship conversation is fantastic; George’s bump off the stair master was well done, only matched by Kramer’s sleepy collapse in the kitchen; Jerry and Meryl slowly realizing the truths of marriage is well executed; Always a treat to get a visit from Helen & Morty; The Elaine/George fight over the pipes is classic; Elaine’s strap snap is good; Kramer showing up at the apartment with the absurd tan is so fantastic
Aaron: Greg having no time for Elaine’s jokes and puns always gets me. George’s tone as he foreshadows his entrance is pretty great as is his commitment to his pipes theory. HE WILL CALL A PLUMBER! Kramer’s insomnia gave us some pretty solid physical stuff, especially his fall while wearing his robe. Elaine stating “He wiped his hand on the top of the bottle when I offered him water” is wonderfully delivered in the most perfect staccato monosyllabic way. Uncle Leo has the shortest of windows before he has to catch his bus but he’s able to cause his usual chaos. The best part is when he leaves you the viewer start to picture the fallout which will no doubt involve a call from Jerry’s parents. Kramer getting yelled at and called a damn fool by the angry black father/grandfather/uncle always kills me.
Andrew: I laughed out loud when Greg kissed Elaine after no-selling all her jokes, and during the “No outside syrups” thing. I’ve already mentioned Elaine’s flirting, but her confidence is great too: “That’s no signal, who wouldn’t like me in this leotard? I look amazing in this leotard.” Jerry and Meryl’s whirlwind “marriage” was decent, but didn’t really pay off for me until the “affair”. There’s something about those telenovela-style scenes that always gets me. Any appearance by Jerry’s parents is welcome, and I especially enjoyed Morty somehow getting in two “I told you so”. Uncle Leo was great too, and having him yell “Hello!” at the bus was a nice touch. George’s “It’s all pipes!” argument is great, if not terribly convincing. Kramer has some good moments, especially his declaration that he takes baths.
Jordan: I like that Kramer needs a quilt to sleep. Greg just deadpanning through all of Elaine’s flirting then just planting one on her was so weird that it was funny. What a douche. George falling while working out was hilariously stupid. I enjoy George justifying his shower pee with, “They’re all pipes!!!” Jerry asking if medical journals say anything about standing in a pool of someone else’s urine was a nice line. Meryl was good for a while, I didn’t care for her when they grew annoyed with each other. Uncle Leo bursting in at just the right moment was awesome. Morty accusing Helen of not believing Jerry would get married, then claiming he knew it when Jerry wasn’t actually married was good. Kramer’s tan was something to behold. The syrup stuff was fun, especially with them getting busted at Monk’s.
Jason: I’ve always been a Courtney Cox fan and she nailed it here as Meryl, the wanna be wife. Jerry blaming Meryl for bringing the maple syrup to breakfast when Larry from Monk’s calls them out on it. Jerry’s, “Here we go…”, before George says he got caught pissing in the showers. Kramer saying he takes baths. Uncle Leo’s quick appearance was fantastic. “Nobody sends me an invitation?” Kramer coming in with Jerry’s can opener after he and Meryl were bickering about it. Jerry meeting the side-chick in the cleaners was great writing. Kramer falling asleep in the tanning bed and the payoff of meeting Anna’s parents was excellent. One of my favorite little things is whenever Helen and Morty call Jerry and they’re both on the phone playing 21 questions with him.
What Didn’t Work
JT: Is dry cleaning such a hot commodity that Meryl would leap at the opportunity to lie for 25% off?; Greg is a soulless, rotten human; Greg is also ugly; Meryl > Paula, bad move Jerome; How much dry cleaning does Meryl do?
Aaron: Jerry still can’t kiss a woman. I feel for his poor wife. My big problem with this one is again it feels like four stories mashed together instead of one big story that branches off in four directions seamlessly. It’s like “Ok we have this wife thing, this George peeing in the shower thing and Elaine dating a dick how we fit them together.” Then someone blurts out, “You know what would be funny? Kramer dating a black girl and showing up tanned to her parents’ house.” I just want a little more cohesion in the writing and not the discarded bits of stuff they didn’t use Frankensteined into an episode. Also how much god damned dry-cleaning do these people do every week???
Andrew: How does Meryl ordering a “short stack” solve Jerry’s problem with them both ordering pancakes? Isn’t a short stack just a smaller order of pancakes? And why does Jerry have two VHS copies of True Colors on his shelf? Does he like it so much he needs a backup? I thought the Gore-Tex callback fell flat, as did Jerry and Meryl over-selling the marriage thing at the dry-cleaners.
Jordan: Greg sucks, Elaine can do so much better. The Jerry and Meryl fight over the can opener didn’t work for me. I also think it’s weird that Jerry isn’t thoroughly sickened by George peeing in the shower. He’s such a germophobe, even if he knows George does it, he should be over the top ridiculous every time he hears about it.
Jason: Greg is a piece of garbage. Go choke on your olives, pal! George’s blue sweats outfits at the gym was really bad.
Key Character Debuts
Meryl
Iconic Moments, Running Themes & Memorable Quotes
– “Uh, let me get a coat. I think I’ll try a sport jacket and scarf thing, you know, like an unemployed actor.” – Jerry
– “Uh, we don’t allow any outside syrups, jams or condiments in the restaurant. And if I catch you in here with that again…I will confiscate it.” – Owner
– “My wife has an inner ear infection.” – Kramer
– “Hey. Hey Elaine, what do you say if neither of us is married in ten years, we get hitched?” – Kramer “Let’s make it fifty.” – Elaine “We’re engaged! Alright, I’m gonna get my quilt.” – Kramer
– “I don’t know why you’re interested in this guy, he’s a jerk.” – Jerry “Because, he doesn’t pay any attention to me, and he ignores me.” – Elaine “Yeah, so?” – Jerry “I respect that.” – Elaine
– “Do you go in the shower?” – Elaine “No, never.” – Jerry “Do you?” – Elaine “I take baths.” – Kramer
– “Ever hear of…holding it in?” – Elaine “Oh, no…no, that’s very bad for the kidneys.” – George “How do you know?” – Elaine “Medical journals!” – George “Do the medical journals mention anything about standing in a pool of someone else’s urine?” – Jerry
– “Who told you when you went to school that you print well?” – Uncle Leo “You did, you did.” – Jerry “When he was younger, he had a beautiful penmanship. I used to encourage him to print.” – Uncle Leo “I’m a good printer.” – Jerry “I remember your ‘V.’ It was like a perfect triangle. Whoa, there’s my bus!” Uncle Leo
– “I’m glad you’re here. This can get really boring. Do you know where I can get some good olives?” – Greg
– “Hey…I’m not stupid. I’m looking in that drawer, there’s no can opener.” – Jerry “Did I say you were stupid?” – Meryl “Well, wouldn’t I have to be? You tell me there’s a can opener in the drawer, I’m looking in the drawer, there’s no can opener – what other conclusion could one reach?” – Jerry
– “Are you kidding? That’s very significant! If he was interested in me, he’d want my germs! He’d just crave my germs!” – Elaine
– “I was there! I saw a drain!” – George “Since when is a drain a toilet?!” – Elaine “It’s all pipes! What’s the difference?!” – George “Different pipes go to different places! You’re gonna mix ’em up!” – Elaine “I’ll call a plumber right now!” – George “Alright, can we just drop all the pee-pipe stuff here?” – Jerry
– “What if he left you a used Kleenex, what’s that, a valentine?” – George
– “I guess I just wasn’t ready for the responsibilities of a pretend marriage.” – Jerry
– “I thought you said you was bringin’ a white boy home! I don’t see a white boy! I see a damn fool!” – Grandpa
Oddities & Fun Facts
– Meryl is portrayed by Courteney Cox
– Jerry references Gore-Tex in a call back to The Dinner Party
– Kramer uses tanning beds
Overall Grade (Scale 1-10)
JT: This was a really rock solid episode but again is hurt by the fantastic curve of season five. George was on fire here and his arguments with Elaine over the pipes and gym show etiquette were great. I also enjoyed the physical humor that snuck in here from Kramer, George and Laney. The wife stuff was well executed and I will never complain about an Uncle Leo visit, especially when he pontificates about penmanship. A very good effort and (I feel like we say this a lot) if it were in a different season or part of a different show, it probably checks in higher. Final Grade: 6/10
Aaron: This is a weird one. It made me laugh quite a bit, but it all had to do with little moments and nothing to do with the scenario. It’s like the elements of farce worked really well for me but the elements of comedy and situation fell flat. Let’s call it an even seven and be done with it. Final Grade: 7/10
Andrew: This episode has its moments, but never really blew me away. I think this is one of those cases where a bunch of funny moments don’t add up as well as it seems like they should. For example, over-tanned Kramer meeting his girlfriend’s family always seems funnier to me in clip shows than it does in the context of the plot. It’s not a bad episode, by any means, but not really up to the standards of this season, either. Final Grade: 6/10
Jordan: I dunno, this one started off pretty good and kind of fizzled by the end. I thought the Meryl stuff was a little too much, with the fighting like married people and Jerry “cheating” with another woman. I would have preferred an episode full of George falling off of exercise equipment. Still, there was enough fun stuff in here for me to not hate it, it’s just not a great storyline episode. Final Grade: 6/10
Jason: A great pre-other NBC hit 90s show performance by Courteney Cox. George pissing in the showers is one of the best Costanza tales in the series. Uncle Leo killed it when he bumped into Jerry at the dry cleaners. A slightly above average episode as we head to the back stretch of this season. Final Grade: 7/10
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Post by sbtbfanatic on Sept 17, 2015 15:35:23 GMT
Seinfeld: The PTBN Series Rewatch – “The Raincoats” (S5, E18/19)
Best Character
JT: Everyone, they all rocked it, nobody lagged behind. Jerry was crisp, George was scheming, Kramer was all over the place, Elaine was at a loss for words, Aaron was gracious and standing too close, Morty was trying to make scrilla, Helen was annoyed, Frank was out of his mind, Estelle was angry, Newman was sneaky, Rudy was pissed, Klompus is incompetant, Mrs. Klompus is a witch, Rachel was horny, Rachel’s dad was a douche and Alec… back off man! Excellence.
Aaron: Poor Frank Costanza. Not only does he have to deal with the rejection of all that he is by the Seinfelds but his home is also about to be overrun by an INFESTATION that we all know he can’t tolerate. The least I could do is award him this category.
Andrew: There’s a lot of greatness in this one, but I’ll go with Jerry. He does an excellent job of balancing playing the straight man to everyone else’s nonsense, and selling the pain of the sexually stymied. Plus, he has some of the best lines (“It is a tad askew”).
Jordan: Very tough choice here. Frank and Morty are both prominent, Kramer is nailing it with the physical stuff, George is up to no good, even Jerry is pretty excellent. But I am going with a dark horse here and picking Elaine. Loved her being totally stumped as to why Aaron would like the Seinfelds, and why he would do nice things just to be a nice person. I feel like that mindset perfectly summarizes the main four characters throughout the entire series.
Jason: Lots of good choices here. Aaron the close talker was fabulous. Kramer killed it with his business partnership with Morty. Jerry’s frustration from being “backed up” was very funny. However, I’m gonna go with a tie this week. Helen & Morty get my votes. Their dislike for the Costanzas and outings with Aaron topped off great performances from Jerry’s parents.
Best Storyline
JT: I will go with raincoats since it touched so many other parts of the episode. Morty going into the lore of the birth of the Executive set the tone that was capped by Frank screwing him over thanks to his “moth ridden cabana wear”. A storyline 35 years in the making.
Aaron: All Frank and Estelle wanted was to have their beloved friends over for a nice meal of paella and mouse killing. Their slow descent and realization that they are reviled was as chilling as it was hilarious. George pumping their tires and getting them all fired up was the perfect set up for the inevitable showdown on the cruise.
Andrew: I wouldn’t have predicted this before the rewatch, but I’m going with the Schindler’s List storyline. The sexual frustration angle really spoke to me when I was 14, and is even funnier now: they are grown adults who have to sneak away from their parents to make out! That’s good stuff. Plus, Newman once again packs so much greatness into a brief appearance. His inexplicable need to destroy Jerry gives the episode a nice dramatic tinge. And I’ll admit, I’m a sucker for the movie pastiche: “I could have done so much more.”
Jordan: The raincoats. It gave us Morty and Kramer cooking up deals, some KLOMPUS, and also tied in with George stealing his dad’s clothes. My favorite scene of the episode was probably Morty and Kramer both being upset with the 25% deal, haggling with each other, then being totally satisfied with their new deal of 25%.
Jason: Kramer and Morty’s partnership had it’s laughs. Jerry trying to get alone time with Rachel had its moments and Elaine’s frustration with the Seinfelds for tagging along with Aaron was enjoyable. George selling Frank’s clothes was fun to watch unfold. But come on, the clear winner here is the feud between the Seinfelds and Costanzas. WE CAN’T STAND THEM!
Ethical Dilemma of the Week
JT: What is George’s obligation to Alec? We don’t know how close of friends they are. Can’t George just be honest: he would be a really shitty Big Brother. Alec clearly doesn’t know him that well or else he wouldn’t bother asking. So if they aren’t that close, why get into that deep of a lie? Come on, Costanza!
Aaron: Should Jerry have raped Mr. Goldstein? Well this asshole seems to think that he has the right to stand in the way of Jerry banging his daughter. This is completely unacceptable and the elderly man is lucky that Jerry has the self control of Jesus around all the adoring women. Perhaps in a more open world Jesus would have plowed his way through the Middle East… Perhaps Jerry should have taken Mr. Goldstein. The joke may have been on the comedian in the end… Mr. Goldstein screamed power bottom.
Andrew: Is it OK to lie to get out of working with a charity? In some ways, it’s kinder than being honest and saying you just don’t care enough. Plus, George is so committed to his lie that he ends up doing something good, anyway. I feel like this might be George’s most ethically upright performance to date.
Jordan: Did George really have to take the whole trip to Paris with that little demon? Couldn’t he have gotten him on the plane, said he needed to use the restroom, then bolt? Or better yet, fly to Paris, then ditch the kid? Who would ever know? His dad lives in France and his mom is clearly not in the picture. You may think that’s awful to leave a kid alone like that, but Home Alone 1 and 2 has taught us that children are fit for surviving on their own.
Jason: Is it wrong to try to get some action during a movie? Yes, it’s Schindler’s List, but I’m sure Oskar would understand and give Jerry and Rachel his blessing. And yes, it’s a little over the top, but me and my fellow Jews like to do things over the top. I mean come on, look at all the sexual activity Schindler engaged in throughout the film. I rest my case.
Relationship Scale (Scale 1-10)
JT: Jerry and Rachel just want to bang and they can’t. I respect that. Relationship Grade: Necking/10
Aaron: Elaine should have stayed with Aaron forever. He’s kind, loving and writes for a great website. Aaron would love her until the end of time. Especially if she kept wearing that lovely red nighty. Aaron loves Elaine and would do anything. ANYTHING FOR YOU JULIA. Relationship Grade: My heart sexing yours/10
Andrew: Rachel barely speaks in these episodes, but she certainly makes an impression (particularly on 14-year-old-me). Aaron is a nice guy, but it’s not clear that he has any sexual interest in Elaine, which seems like it could be a problem. Relationship Grade: It’s been so long/10
Jordan: Rachel is pretty good looking, and her and Jerry just want to go at it, but do they really? In the scene where they are getting hot and heavy on the couch, they are both in jeans, with shirts tucked in (she’s wearing a bodysuit I think). I’m sorry, but if shirts are tucked in, maybe you subconsciously don’t want to sleep with each other. Jerry should have met her at the door with his pants around his ankles and she should have reciprocated within seconds. I think they were fooling themselves. Relationship Grade: TUCK RULE/10
Jason: The Seinfelds and Costanzas rivalry was top shelf entertaining. Kramer’s partnership with Morty was an accident waiting to happen, but very well written. Aaron, my man! His instant clinging to the Seinfelds was very well done The bickering between the Costanzas never gets old. I really like Rachel for Jerry and their quest to be alone to get some lovin’ was great. Relationship Grade: BLUE BALLS/10
What Worked:
JT: George’s enthusiasm about living with your parents catching on was so soul crushing because you knew how hard he wanted to believe it; the Jeopardy line always cracks me up as does the Saks dig; George is at his scheming best in this one between the France plot and the vintage clothes jig; Kramer’s bump off the door knob; The feud between the Seinfelds and the Costanzas fires up here; The Close Talker; I love how absurdly over-the-top nice Aaron is in contrast to his close talking issues; Poor Frank with his head in the sand over their friendship with the Seinfelds; Paella!: And also, the Costanzas continue to dominate; Tippi Tippi Dayday always makes me laugh; The Executive!; The Paris plan backfiring is classic George; Aaron in bed reminiscing over the Seinfelds with Elaine; Jack Klompus!; I will not tolerate infestation!; George dishing Frank’s cruise wear to Rudy was well done and I love how George found out about the Seinfelds dinner plan lies; George being forced to defend his parents was a nice twist; The My Fair Lady montage was great; Rachel certainly has it going on; I love Jerry’s disdain for Klompus and Jack bringing up the pen was a nice callback; The Costanzas freaking out over the Seinfeld diss right into the cruise conversation was tremendous; Newman catching Jerry & Rachel getting at it during the movie was perfect booking; George driving the wedge between Kramer and Morty was good and their subsequent discussion was perfect; I loved Helen busting out a “Hello Newman”; Frank attacking Kramer is glorious; I love the underlying mouse storyline in the Costanza home; I also love how Klompus can’t get anything right; The poor Seinfelds; Aaron’s final Schindler like monologue was gold and a great way to tie things up; The final payoffs were all fantastic too, with the break-in at the Seinfelds, Jerry chasing Newman and the final meet-up on the cruise ship
Aaron: Kramer was great throughout, especially with the greased up hands, tumbling to the ground while trying to open the door. The elderly are always a welcome addition to the sitcom and they crush every episode they’re on. Morty and Helen’s outright rejection of the Costanzas is great but Frank and Estelle’s reactions and rage are sublime. The sad story of Jack Klompus attempting to open a garage and cutting the shit out of his hand is priceless. Jerry was sharp and cutting with all of his trademark “douche” lines. The writing was GREAT in this one too. For the first time in a while I felt like it was all one big story with a bunch of branches as opposed to a pile of great branches picked up off the cutting room floor and tossed in a pile. It was seamless and hilarious.
Andrew: My God, it’s full of guest stars! Judge Reinhold adds so much to the close talker thing, really committing to it and making me laugh every time. Frank and Estelle are great as usual, and I really enjoy Frank’s fear of mice. Helen blowing off George’s dinner offer is ice cold, and I love her dubious offer to give Jerry and Rachel some alone time (“We could just sit right here and read”). Morty and Jack Klompus have amazing chemistry considering they are never in the same room together (“What boxes?” “I’m gonna explain what boxes.” “Alright how the hell do I know?”). I also love Morty’s tale of how The Executive was invented in a moment of borderline child abuse. Newman is off-the-charts great (“He was moving on her like the storm-troopers into Poland!”). The regular cast is excellent is well. Elaine being disturbed by Aaron’s concern for Jerry’s parents is perfect, with just the right amount of self-awareness of how petty that is. George once again showing uncommon commitment to a lie is great, and I enjoy his little touches, like doing the exasperated arm motions in unison with his mother. Kramer’s chemistry with Morty is almost as good as Jack’s, and I admire his love of paella; it truly is an orgiastic feast for the senses. And as I mentioned before, Jerry was great.
Jordan: Can I just give a weak answer and say nearly everything? Because it’s nearly everything. Every main character is awesome here with distinct stories: Jerry wants some action, Kramer wants some raincoats, George wants some cash and Elaine wants some answers. The recurring characters really nail it with the Costanzas and Seinfelds feud brewing – WHO DOESN’T WANT SOME PAELLA? Frank wanting to move because he may have a mouse is awesome, especially since his clothes are riddled with moths. And not just any clothes, HIS CABANA CLOTHES. Helen and Morty just not liking the Costanzas is not only funny, it’s totally reasonable from watching them. Aaron is a fantastic guest with the close talking and his bizarre love of hanging out with the Seinfelds. I loved Morty offering everyone a bite of his candy bar at the show. Rachel is gorgeous and the making out at Schindler’s List is a pretty fun little twist. For real, everything works.
Jason: Everything with Aaron was a home run. Kramer’s reaction and “I heard a lot about you” after meeting Aaron is a laugh every time. Jerry’s “Wouldn’t you like to pass the ketchup to someone like me?” to George after Joey and Alec leave kills. Frank’s cabana wear having moths. Elaine’s “Sorry pal, wish I can help you out” to Jerry while putting on lipstick. Jack Klompus is one of my favorite recurring characters. Morty turning to Jack to ship the raincoats. “Get the hell outta here with your knob!” Morty’s tale about how he invented the Executive. George working Rudy up to $225 for Frank’s clothes because it was his “high game in bowling”. Kramer buying Frank’s shirts at Rudy’s and then showing up to dinner at the Costanzas with one of the shirts on. Frank smacking George in the head after he tells Frank that he sold his cabana wear. Larry David doing Nazi voice over work during Schindler’s List. Newman being the one who catches Jerry and Rachel making out during Schindler’s List was perfect. Helen’s “Hello, Newman”. Kramer and Morty’s negotiating and ending back at 25%. The showdown between Frank and Morty at Rudy’s. Newman being Rachel’s father’s mailman and ratting Jerry out was perfect. Aaron wishing he could have helped out the Seinfelds more was a BRILLIANT take on Schindler not being able to help more Jews.
What Didn’t Work
JT: Alec is really pushy and using his little brother to lay it on is a bit much; Doris Klompus is a bitch; Helen using “necking” annoys me; Jerry is way too nice letting George take the tickets without any sort of payment
Aaron: The kid actor was pretty weak and the George “big brother” storyline had potential but really wasn’t mined to its fullest. I really dug the close talker bit but his impassioned plea at the Seinfelds as they leave for Miami stretches the believability with the overdramatics. Kramer makes over the top real; this guy fell a bit short in that moment.
Andrew: Part 1 isn’t as good as Part 2, but I’m really just nitpicking.
Jordan: Two things: The zoom over to Newman in the movie theater stayed on him for way too long giving a stupid evil look. Also, I feel like they missed a huge opportunity not having George wear a beret in France.
Jason: Alec sucks. He’d made a great sleazy car saleman. I don’t blame Joey for being a bitter kid, especially following Alec around all day. George should have told him to take a hike.
Key Character Debuts
Aaron the Close Talker
Rudy
Rachel
Iconic Moments, Running Themes & Memorable Quotes
“You don’t understand, I haven’t been together with Rachel for like three weeks. First I was on the road, then my parents show up, I’m getting a little uh backed up.” – Jerry
– “Maybe this will become like a cool thing, living with your parents.” – George “Ya, then maybe baldness will catch on. This will all be turning your way.” – Jerry
– “Hey did you notice they moved where they do the interview on Jeopardy now?” – Jerry “Ya it used to be right in the middle of single Jeopardy and now they do it right after single Jeopardy.” – George “Ya, it’s much better isn’t it?” – Jerry “Oh, no comparison.” – George
– “He wants this guy to think he’s in Paris.” – Jerry “Why?” – Helen “Because George is a deeply disturbed individual.” – Jerry
“It’s from the Sachs Fifth Avenue in Miami.” – Helen “Mmm, I’m gonna remember that if I’m ever in Florida.” – Kramer “Ya, or if you’re ever on Fifth Avenue here in New York City, you could get some there.” – Jerry
– “Well uh that doesn’t surprise me, ya i bought these at Rudy’s. It’s a used clothing store. See when people like you die, the widows they bring in their wardrobes, they make a bundle.” – Kramer
– “Well they’re so loud, they’re always fighting it’s uncomfortable, you never notice?” – Helen “No I notice but they’re from your age group I didn’t know you could detect abnormal behavior among your own kind.” – Jerry
– The Close Talker reaches pop culture
– “Again with the pepper? What do you gotta use all the pepper for?” – Frank “Ah keep quiet.” – Estelle “What are you trying to set my mouth on fire?” – Frank
– “Well he’s from the impressionist school, you know like Monet, Manet, Tippi Tippi Dayday.” – Jerry
– “I sure did. Raincoats were my business. The Executive was a classic, these haven’t been made in twenty years.” – Morty “Why would they? Nobody bought them then.” – Helen
– “Where will you stay?” – Alec “An apartment complex, the uh the Eiffel Towers.” – George
– “You had fun with Mr. and Mrs. Seinfeld.” – Elaine “Yea, they bought me a coke.” – Aaron
– “He also came up with an idea for a brimless rain-hat but that never materialized.” – Jerry
– “No it was a spur of the moment. Well you know Morty likes to fly by the seat of his vintage pants.” – Kramer
– “Ok, fine. It’s going to be very interesting, very interesting if they don’t show up tonight. You know my mother made all this Paella.” – George “What is that anyway?” – Jerry “It’s a Spanish dish. It’s a mlange of fish, an meat with rice. Very tasty.” – George
– “This is some office. What’s the square footage?” – Morty
– “There is something wrong with the key. The key doesn’t work.” – Jack “You gotta jiggle it a little bit. I jiggled it. I jiggled it for fifteen minutes. ” – Morty “Tell him to come down here and get his own packages. You have nothing better to do then worry about his boxes.” – Doris “You gotta pull on the knob as you turn it.” – Morty “Get the hell outta here with your knob.” – Jack
– “What about the end, with the list?” – Morty “Ya that was some list.” – Jerry
– “Paella? I’ll be there!” – Kramer
– “What leg work?” – Morty “Oh, there’s leg work.” – Kramer
– “It is a tad askew.” – Jerry “I mean they’re your parents and you don’t do anything. So why is this stranger doing it?”- Elaine “I’ve hardly been out to dinner with them.” – Jerry “See, See, I can’t even say anything you know because all he’s really doing is being nice but but nobody is this nice, this is like certifiably nice.” – Elaine “You’re right he’s insane.” – Jerry “Yes, he’s insane, that’s what I think.” – Elaine
– “You were making out during Schindler’s List?” – Elaine
– “What, do I have to spell it out for ya? He was moving on her like the storm-troopers into Poland.” – Newman; “Jerry was necking during Schindler’s List?” – Helen “Yes! A more offensive spectacle I cannot recall. Anyway I just really came up to get some detergent.” – Newman
– “Hello Morty, listen that key doesn’t work. It’s no good.” – Jack
– “You know, I was thinking today. I never liked those Seinfelds anyway, he’s an idiot all together.” – Estelle
– “That’s my cabana shirt, you stole my shirt you son of a bitch! George you let your friends go up in my attic and steal my clothes?” – Frank
– “Oh it’s a orgiastic feast for the senses.” – Kramer
– “This watch, this watch could’ve paid for their whole trip. This ring, this ring is one more dinner I could’ve taken them out to. Water, they need some water.” – Aaron
Oddities & Fun Facts
– Actor Judge Reinhold portrays Aaron the Close Talker
– Schindler’s List was very popular at the time and this episode plays off everyone imploring others to see it
– Jack Klompus brings up the astronaut pen to Jerry, a callback to The Pen (S3, E5)
– Aaron’s final monologue is an allusion to Oscar Schindler fretting over not being able to help more Jews during the Holocaust
– Larry David provides the voice over for one of the Nazis in the Schindler’s List viewing scene
– While filming Schindler’s List in Europe, Steven Spielberg often requested episodes of Seinfeld to help him get through some of the difficult parts of filming
Overall Grade (Scale 1-10)
JT: This was really a perfect episode. They filled the hour up easily with great line after great line. The storylines all clicked and wove in and out seamlessly and everyone held up their end of the bargain. Aaron and Rudy were great in their guest roles and having the Costanzas and Seinfelds at war was brilliant. Jerry was really on point here with his one liners and George was at his scheming best. Toss in a flabbergasted Elaine and an aloof K-Man and you got it all. This has always been one of my all time favorite episodes thanks to its memorable moments and quotability from start to end. The only question that remains is: How did everyone not crack up during the close talking scenes? Final Grade: 10/10
AaronIt’s a solid 40 minutes that was a breeze to get through and had me laughing out loud throughout. When you add both sets of parents to great writing the results are always tremendous. Final Grade: 8/10
Andrew: This is a tale of frustrated desires, foiled by forces outside our control. Morty and Kramer put so much effort into overcoming obstacles, only to have their big score denied. Rachel and Jerry are just trying to wait out a visit from his parents, but are cruelly torn apart by the machinations of his nemesis. George simply wants … a free trip to Paris? This theory needs work. The episode was hilarious, though. Final Grade: 10/10
Jordan: I feel like if I go in depth here, I’m just repeating myself, but here we go: Great stories that weave together, solid efforts from all four main cast members, recurring characters nailing it, guest stars doing awesome. This could have been four episodes long and I’d have loved it. Brilliant. Final Grade: 10/10
Jason: There was a lot going on in this two part episode. The Seinfelds, Costanzas, Jack, Rudy, Kramer, Aaron and Jerry were all great. Of all the two part episodes in the series, this ranks at the top. Overall, some very funny moments with awesome Aaron, the returning Jack Klompus and the family feud with the Seinfelds & Costanzas. Everything blended well together and the payoff at the end on the cruise ship was perfect. As a resident PTBN Hebrew person, there was a lot well written edgy Jewish humor to appreciate here. Final Grade: 10/10
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Post by sbtbfanatic on Sept 17, 2015 15:35:48 GMT
Seinfeld: The PTBN Series Rewatch – “The Fire” (S5, E20)
Best Character
JT: So, I was ready to give this to Jerry because he was at his sarcastic best throughout. Then I was good to go with George after his performance at the party. But then Kramer told his Batman story. And nothing else mattered, Cracker Jack.
Aaron: There may be a litany of contenders here but if we can’t give this one to the guy who pushed children while fleeing a fire then what kind of society have we become?
Andrew: Kramer was the best. I’m basing that entirely on the bus story, and I will not apologize for it. It’s that damn good.
Jordan: Ronnie the prop comic, obviously. Nah, but really, I think I actually liked Elaine the most here. She’s angry and sassy, which is the best Elaine.
Jason: Eric the Clown is miserable. Toby is an ugly loud ginger. George is a little bitch. Kramer is Batman. Batman wins everything.
Best Storyline
JT: Everything tied together so well, that I don’t feel too dirty just saying “all of it”. If I had to pick on particular thread, I will go with George being a pussy, but really it was like one giant storyline that involved everybody.
Aaron: I love Elaine’s vendetta against Toby. It starts with her barely tolerating Toby’s coffee table gushing to her being buried under a pile of magazines, crushed by her co-worker’s well wishes. Elaine hangs over the obnoxious Toby like the sword of Damocles; waiting and longing to cut her fucking head off.
Andrew: I’ll go with The Fire storyline. George’s mad stampede through children and the elderly has lost its shock value now that I’ve seen it so many times, but that’s just a brilliant moment. And it’s perfect for the character, putting his selfishness and need to be liked in direct opposition to one another.
Jordan: Easily George pushing over children and the elderly because some hamburgers were burned. It’s one of those scenes, along with his explanation afterwards, where you can show someone and they will fully understand the character. Great stuff.
Jason: Everything meshed together very well here, but I’ll go with Jerry getting revenge on Toby for her being an obnoxious, stupid, piece of shit human being at his show.
Ethical Dilemma of the Week
JT: Should Jerry have held back or just roasted Toby? I say he should have let loose. They had just started dating and he was well within his rights to let her have it with the way she was acting. Plus, he cussed her out afterwards anyway, which was bound to cause the same issues. He may as well have saved his gig and dealt with the rest later.
Aaron: If someone starts using your sayings is it right to call them out on it? I have a friend who constantly steals my expressions. It’s insanely frustrating made all the more enraging by his insistence that HE started using them first. George spent years cultivating catchphrases like “baby” and “Ho Ho!” He deserves the credit. Jerry could at least admit that maybe there’s been some subconscious run off after spending years basically married to the man, but that opens a whole different can of worms that was eaten during season four.
Andrew: Is heckling OK? I guess it’s one thing if you’re expressing worthwhile disapproval. But I feel like most heckling comes from a desire to make everything about you. Those people need to get over themselves.
Jordan: Should people have to sit through prop comics? I feel like if I paid to go to a comedy club, and a prop comic came on stage, I would have every right to not only demand a refund, but twice what I paid. Prop comics gigs should be restricted to prisons and funerals.
Jason: Is it right to heckle someone at their job after they heckle you at yours. In this case, yes! Toby has no self control and Jerry had every right to march into Toby’s office and rip into her. He should have dropped his draws and shit on her desk.
Relationship Scale (Scale 1-10)
JT: Toby is the worst. Annoying, unattractive, loud, bad dresser…nothing positive to see here. Robin was OK but nothing special either. Weak crop this go round. Relationship Grade: 1/10
Aaron: Kramer should break up with Toby. She’s the worst human we’ve seen on the show in five seasons. Relationship Grade: 0/10
Andrew: Toby is the worst. She was not worthy of Kramer’s heroics. Also, why is her name Toby? Relationship Grade: BOOOO/10
Jordan: Not only does Toby suck, but I also kind of wish there really was a fire in Robin’s apartment and her monster of a son didn’t make it out alive. Relationship Grade: Worse than any grade I’ve given so far/10
Jason: Poor Robin. All she wanted to do was give her son a nice birthday party and George pussied out when he saw smoke instead of taking charge of the situation. Toby is a complete whack job. Her voice is like fingernails on a chalk board. Relationship Grade: Pinky Toe/10
What Worked:
JT: Bitter Elaine is the best Elaine; George dealing with the kid was great; Bozo!; The Costanza birthday flashback was tremendous; Ronnie’s pride in being a prop comic is admirable; Jerry’s reactions to Toby’s awful jokes were great, so great; I also loved him just tearing her apart after the show; I will forever love Eric the Clown and his anger for George about Bozo; George plowing his way out of the fire was perfection and his explanation later was amazing; Jerry’s sarcastic grilling of George was great too; Jerry heckling Toby was a tremendous idea; Kramer’s bus Batman story was as good as it gets; Elaine getting knocked over in the office always makes me laugh; The payoff with the prop comic and the fake gun was a great wrap
Aaron: During George’s horrific birthday flashback: “Blow the candles out! Blow the damn Candles out!!!” “Stop it Frank you’re killing him!!!” This was the most I’ve laughed since we started re-watching this thing. Elaine comparing Toby to a Price is Right contestant was great and the subsequent dancing and prancing was gold. Kramer’s monologue about him driving the bus and becoming Batman is also legendary. All of George’s cowardly behavior and ridiculous justifications about leadership and fire safety are great as is Jerry raking him over the coals for his moral ineptitude. There’s a bunch of little things too but I think the best compliment I can pay this episode is I didn’t stop laughing throughout. Everything clicked and all four characters were at their best.
Andrew: George’s birthday flashback is amazing (“Stop it Frank, you’re killing him!”). Toby is really unpleasant, but that does get laughs from time to time, and her “goose bumps” bit worked for me. I also enjoyed Dom Irrera acting so proud of being a prop comic. The idea to have Jerry go heckle the heckler was pretty good. The recurring bit about Jerry stealing George’s signature “baby” was fun. And I really, really enjoy bitter Elaine.
Jordan: Of course, the birthday party scene. It’s so awesome, and not JUST for the fire. George is giving it to Eric for not knowing who Bozo is and Eric freaks out on him. Then the fire happens and George just tramples everyone. So great. Speaking of George, the flashback to his birthday party was great. Jerry laying it on thick to George at the diner afterwards was a nice touch. I liked Jerry heckling Toby, and Kramer’s toe story.
Jason: Elaine comparing Toby to a Price is Right contestant. George’s frustration with Robin’s kid when he’s playing under the table. The flashback to George’s 7th birthday. BLOW OUT THE CANDLES! Ronnie K is the man. I’d pay good money to see his props and big nostrils. Jerry losing his shit at Toby after she heckles him. Jerry heckling Toby at her job. George trying to explain who Bozo is to Eric. Move over Doink, Bozo and Krusty because Eric is the greatest clown of all time. George knocking over kids and old ladies to get out of the apartment. His bullshit story to the EMTs and firemen. “Eric the Clown put it out with his big shoe.” Kramer’s bus story is incredible. “Now I’m driving the bus!” Kramer hustling Toby so she can help get his book published. Ronnie comparing Jerry to Rosa Parks, because he opened the door for all comedians who have been heckled. Ronnie pulling out his water gun and George making a scene.
What Didn’t Work
JT: I hate everything about Toby, including her name; I can’t stand the closeup on Kramer’s face when Toby has her accident.
Aaron: Toby’s annoying but was a pretty accurate description of someone we all know. She made feel angry and filled me with regret that I never heckled “that” person at their work. I don’t want to feel anything ever.
Andrew: I get why they wouldn’t show the actual street sweeper incident, but showing Kramer’s close-up reaction instead was just odd.
Jordan: Robin is a terrible mom based off the scene with her and George in the diner. She totally ignores him as he acts like a monster, LICKING THE FLOOR OF A NEW YORK CITY DINER. I feel like this mom/son combo gets off the hook because of how grating Toby is, but man, George really dodged a bullet here.
Jason: All of the co-workers showing sympathy for Toby after she comes back to work drives me nuts. Fuck her and her stupid toe.
Key Character Debuts
Eric the Clown
Robin
Iconic Moments, Running Themes & Memorable Quotes
– “‘And that coffee table is saying, put some coffee on me!’ I’d like to put some coffee on her. Hot, scalding coffee – right in her face! I swear! This is like working with a contestant from “The Price Is Right”! ” – Elaine
– “Oh, that’s gold, baby.” – Jerry “‘Baby’? What, are you doing George now?” – Elaine “I was saying ‘baby’ way before George!” – Jerry
– Who’s Bozo? Bozo the Clown, that’s who Bozo is. When I was a kid, Bozo the Clown was the clown, bar none.” – George “George…” – Robin “With the orange hair, and the big clown shirt with the ruffles…” – Georg “George…” – Robin “And the TV show! He had cartoons!” – George “George! Forget Bozo, George. Bozo’s out. He’s finished. It’s over for Bozo.” – Robin
– “No! Not part of the show! Booing and hissing are not part of the show! You boo puppets! You hiss villains in silent movies!” – Jerry
– “You’ve never heard of Bozo the Clown?” – George “No!” – Eric “How could you not know who Bozo the Clown is?” – George “I don’t know, I just don’t.” – Eric “How can you call yourself a clown and not know who Bozo is?” – George “Hey, man – what are you hassling me for? This is just a gig, it’s not my life. I don’t know who Bozo is, what – is he a clown?” – Eric “Is he a clown? What, are you kidding me!?” – George “Well, what is he?” – Eric “Yes, he’s a clown!” – George “Alright, so what’s the big deal! There’s millions of clowns!” – Eric “Alright, just forget it.” – George “Me forget it? You should forget it! You’re livin’ in the past, man! You’re hung up on some clown from the sixties, man!” – Eric
– “Because! Because, as the leader…if I die…then all hope is lost! Who would lead? The clown? Instead of castigating me, you should all be thanking me. What kind of a topsy-turvy world do we live in, where heroes are cast as villains? Brave men as cowards?” – George “But I saw you push the women and children out of the way in a mad panic! I saw you knock them down! And when you ran out, you left everyone behind!” – Robin “Seemingly. Seemingly, to the untrained eye, I can fully understand how you got that impression. What looked like pushing…what looked like knocking down…was a safety precaution! In a fire, you stay close to the ground, am I right? And when I ran out that door, I was not leaving anyone behind! Oh, quite the contrary! I risked my life making sure that exit was clear. Any other questions?” – George “How do you live with yourself?” – Fireman “Its not easy.” – George
– “Yeah. She should be commending me for treating everyone like equals.” – George “Well, perhaps when she’s released from the burn center, she’ll see things differently.” – Jerry
– “So, what was the fire? Just a couple of greasy hamburgers?” – Jerry “Yeah. Eric the Clown put it out with his big shoe.” – George
– “You’re Batman.” – George “Yeah. Yeah, I am Batman. Then the mugger, he comes to, and he starts chokin’ me! So I’m fightin’ him off with one hand and I kept drivin’ the bus with the other, y’know? Then I managed to open up the door, and I kicked him out the door with my foot, you know – at the next stop.” – Kramer “You kept makin’ all the stops?” – Jerry “Well, people kept ringin’ the bell!” – Kramer
– “You know, throughout this whole thing, she always kept a smile on her face.” – Kramer “Oh, of course! She’s deranged.” – Elaine
Oddities & Fun Facts
– Eric the Clown is portrayed by Jon Favreau
Overall Grade (Scale 1-10)
JT: I enjoyed this one quite a bit but as we have said time and time again, it is hurt by the Season Five curve. I enjoyed how everything flowed so seamlessly and it actually made the episode fly by. There was some really good banter in here, especially Jerry’s sarcastic barbs to Elaine and George. The fire stuff was really and I love Eric the Clown so much. So angry. Kramer’s story is an all timer as well and I clip I had on my iPod for a decade. A very good effort overall that certainly is worth a watch but comes up just short of the classics. Final Grade: 7/10
Aaron: This one killed if from start to finish with me. Everyone remembers George shoving everyone out of the way but this one is chock full of awesome moments. Super tight writing blended with awesome character work and a psychotic Frank Costanza, screaming at his child to enjoy his birthday; how can this one not be a classic? Final Grade: 10/10
Andrew: Not one of my favorites. Maybe I’d feel differently if I was watching George flee from the fire for the first time, but I found the episode overall a bit boring. There’s just not a lot going on for any of the characters, and the writing and dialogue are just OK. Kramer’s bus hijacking story makes up for a lot, though. Final Grade: 6/10
Jordan: Here’s the issue with this one: Is it funny? Sure. Is it memorable? Sure. But Toby is there, and it’s a fine line when you have a character like this. She is SUPPOSED to be annoying, I get it. But she’s SO over the top annoying that it actually takes away from my enjoyment of the episode. I don’t really know how they rectify that though – maybe cut her out of a scene or two? She just really bugged me. This is an episode that is more known for a moment than the episode itself, with George and the fire. I actually think Kramer’s bus story was just as funny. A really solid effort. Final Grade: 7/10
Jason: This was a very fast 23 minutes with plenty of laughs. The fire stuff is so good and in my book, Eric belongs in the clown hall of fame. Kramer’s Batman story is a top ten K-Man moment in the series. I really like the episode, but it falls a little short of perfection. Especially in a season as strong as this one. Final Grade: 7/10
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Post by sbtbfanatic on Sept 17, 2015 15:36:16 GMT
Seinfeld: The PTBN Series Rewatch – “The Hamptons” (S5, E21)
Best Character
JT: I am torn a bit on this one. Jerry was really good, again killing his quick hit liners with perfect timing. Kramer was great too, enjoying Jane’s goods and then romping on the beach before pilfering the lobsters. However, one man had the iconic line and memorable moment and that is poor Georgie Boy. He did nothing wrong in this one, was just a victim or poor timing and circumstance. And he ends up looking like a lesser man, short changed by his best friend’s gal.
Aaron: Whether he’s participating in great beach montage or having an ugly baby blow his fucking mind the K-Man is fantastic in this one. His joy over seeing Jane topless is finely tempered by his stern resolve to keep Rachel kosher. Yo yo ma!
Andrew: This is one of my favorite Elaine episodes. She’s solid throughout, from avoiding the sun, to her reaction to the baby, to flirting with the pediatrician. But the shrinking conversation is the best. She bounds into the room so carefree, and has such a great, bemused reaction to it all. “I don’t know how you guys walk around with those things.” Just perfect.
Jordan: This is one of those episodes where you go back and forth. For a while, it was Kramer, then I went Jerry, moved to Elaine, but I finally settled on George. I know most would assume it’s the shrinkage deal, and that definitely adds to his credentials here, but I loved his sinister plan to feed Rachel lobster.
Jason: I really like Jerry here. He was on his A game with one-liners and quick wit. But, this episode belongs to George. He had such bad luck between everyone seeing Jane topless, Rachel catching him post-pool and Jane taking a hike after Rachel rats him out. Revenge was served sweet or in this case with lobster.
Best Storyline
JT: The shrinkage. Nothing else comes close here, it is an all timer.
Aaron: The shrinkage and all that pertains to it (with one tiny exception we’ll talk about later). George is on a mission to seal the deal with a beautiful woman until his whole world is shattered beyond repair. Is it fair? No. Was he bang on about women being much, much worse than men? Possibly. He even went so far as to wear a ridiculous tight shirt to prove a point at a dinner. That shirt was brutal.
Andrew: As much as I enjoy everyone’s reactions to the baby, I can’t pass up the nudity storyline. Jane’s topless romp is a good shock moment, and the conversation about it is great. George’s discomfort with the situation is totally understandable, and even if I can’t support his plan to make things even, we do get the classic shrinkage moment out of it.
Jordan: The shrinkage as well as George’s quest to catch Rachel naked as a result. All time classic stuff.
Jason: The first thing that will always come to mind with this episode is the shrinkage. Such an iconic moment. End of story.
Ethical Dilemma of the Week
JT: There are actually quite a few jammed into this episode. Should Kramer have taken the lobsters? Should Michael have ratted him out? Should Rachel have told Jane about what she saw? Should Jane have dumped George without at least checking for herself? Should George have exacted revenge by spitting in the face of Rachel’s religion? A big mess in this one. I will rank them this way from worst human to least worst: Jane, Michael, Rachel, Kramer, George.
Aaron: Would you rather look at exposed breasts or see a baby for the first time? I’m not even going to pretend to be objective on this one. A Jane walking around topless happens about as often as Haley’s Comet so stare away.
Andrew: Pertussin and club soda: did George invent purple drank?
Jordan: Should Kramer have blabbed to George that they saw Jane topless? I think the answer is clear. No, he shouldn’t have. Instead, he should have concocted several plans to get George to leave the house while Jane continued swimming.
Jason: Is there such thing as an ugly baby? I guess with Carol’s genes in that kid, it is possible.
Relationship Scale (Scale 1-10)
JT: I really liked Rachel. A lot. I am not sure what changed between the last episode and this one though. It was really not cool of her to dime out Georgie Boy like that. And screw Jane and her nice tits. At least see for yourself instead of taking a stranger’s word for it. What a shitty girlfriend. Relationship Grade: Boutros Boutros/10
Aaron: Jane is waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay out of George’s league. Rachel is great. Elaine can do better than the douchebag doctor who counts stars. Kramer and the lobsters are a match made in heaven. Relationship Grade: 10,9,2,10/10
Andrew: I admire and endorse Jane’s comfort with topless sunbathing, but there’s no way George was ever going to be able to handle that. They were doomed from the start. Rachel and Jerry, on the other hand, managed to survive the Schindler’s List incident, and I assume their love has only grown stronger. I’m rooting for those two. Relationship Grade: It shrinks?/10
Jordan: Jane is a great example of the most confusing part of the entire shows history to me: How can a loser like George continue landing women like this? Marisa Tomei is interested in him! It’s always so unbelievable to me when George has a hot girlfriend, and even moreso when she’s marching around with her jugs on display. Was good to see Rachel back, but she killed things for ol’ Georgie boy. Relationship Grade: FRIGHTENED TURTLE/10
Jason: So Rachel has greeting problems and ratted out George. Big deal. She’s still one of Jerry’s best catches. Jane on the other hand is a pile of shit. She should have taken George for a spin herself instead of taking Rachel’s word. I still haven’t figured out Ben Feffa. Who does he actually find unattractive, the baby or Laney? Relationship Grade: Breathtaking/10
What Worked:
JT: Jerry’s “Mrs. Robinson” line cracked me up, as did the Maude dig at Elaine; The topless stuff was really well done, and I loved Kramer’s comment about Jane trying to get a buzz going; The ugly baby stuff is fantastic and so real; Kramer’s beach montage was great; I love the breathtaking mixed signals from Feffa; It was nice having Rachel back, and we hit our second girlfriend that dislikes George; Vintage Kramer tossing out that he saw Jane topless to George; Elaine was looking good in this episode; Rachel laughing at George’s shrunken member was great, as was his reaction; Everything shrinkage was top of the line, including George’s awesome t-shirt example; Kramer’s reaction to the baby was great; Feffa’s confusing comment about just being nice was well done; Kramer and Rachel’s late night lobster dalliance was fun; George’s revenge was well done, but I still feel like he got the shit end of the deal on the trade-off, but his punchline was tremendous
Aaron: I love the whole contained nature of the episode. Everyone has been on an awkward vacation like this; perhaps it didn’t end with the same level of humiliation but we can all somewhat relate. I dig Kramer trying to convince the others that Jane’s trying to create a buzz with the topless display. He just has the weirdest takes on things. George’s screaming about being in the pool is still priceless as is Rachel’s giggle after being flashed. Elaine also rocked a sweet beekeeper hat.
Andrew: Elaine may have been my favorite character in this one, but Kramer was incredible as well. The Beach Boys segment, his reaction to the baby, telling George about seeing Jane topless, protecting Rachel from herself, waving to the cop, putting silk underwear on the top of the list: all top-notch. George is pretty good, too, especially when he’s suspicious of Jane and Rachel whispering (and rightfully so, unfortunately). Speaking of Rachel, her “I’m really sorry” is just devastating. The episode is full of great lines and expressions: the “letter of intent”, “trying to create a buzz”, “they’re much worse than us!”
Jordan: Practically everything – the main storyline of shrinkage was a home run, but all the subplots were terrific too. Elaine and the doctor was fun while it lasted, and I like that he called breakfast breathtaking. I also liked Elaine casually mentioning how ugly the baby was to see what his reaction would be. Rachel’s reaction to walking in on George is perfect and one of the most iconic scenes in the shows run. Jerry was great throughout this one, with his Mrs. Robinson line to Kramer and repeated jabs throughout. His definition of shrinkage being like a frightened turtle still makes me laugh. The ugly baby story is fun just for the reactions.
Jason: Kramer’s silk underwear conversation in the car is so random but so K-Man. Kramer wanting Jerry to rub lotion on his back. Jerry’s Maude line to Elaine cracks me up every time. Everyone’s reaction when Jane comes back topless. George’s Neil Armstrong/Tang line is brilliant. Kramer’s beach adventure montage. Kramer opening his mouth that he saw Jane topless. Kramer’s reaction to seeing the baby is so good. George’s gum line after opening the door on Rachel is perfect Constanza bullshitting. George and Jerry explaining shrinkage to Elaine. Kramer’s wave to the cop. George’s tight shirt rant. George showing Rachel the lobster bib after she eats a bite of the eggs.
What Didn’t Work
JT: Jane seems strung out; The camerawork was shaky as you can see Jane’s boob was covered when she turned and walked away; Since when do pediatricians make house calls and chill with the family? Is it a Hamptons thing?; Chill out Michael; Jane is kind of a bitch to leave like that; Michael is a straight up narc; The ending annoyed me for some reason, how would Rachel notice George that quickly and drill him squarely in the face with the tomato?
Aaron: I hate that George attempted to walk in on Rachel before she saw him. It crossed a lechery line that I didn’t feel was necessary. Especially given the fact that he walks in on her by accident later. I know it’s kind of dumb but it was off putting enough to put damper on his character for me in this one. Jerry’s “snapping out of it” face can go in the box with all his other overacting. His homophobia crept back in too as he refused to put lotion on Kramer’s back.The parting shot with the tomato hitting George in the face was strange and way too sitcomy for me.
Andrew: The opening scene was a little heavy on the exposition, but I guess you have to advance the plot somehow. As much as I enjoyed the episode, I did feel like it was lacking in payoff; the ending just felt kind of flat to me.
Jordan: I thought the beach scene with Kramer was just odd, especially with the Beach Boys song playing. You could have easily just shown him tugging the rope and been done with it. Elaine’s outfit for “shade” worked for some jokes, but then…why is she laying outside in the first place? Jerry too, who was laying out with a shirt on. Do these people not know how this works?
Jason: Jane’s voice is really annoying. Michael is a complete asshole.
Key Character Debuts
Jane the Topless Swimmer
Dr. Ben Feffa
Iconic Moments, Running Themes & Memorable Quotes
– “Didn’t they just have a baby?” – Jerry “That was two years ago, remember? ‘Jeh-Ree, you gotta see the Bay-Bee! You gotta see the Bay-Bee!'” – Elaine
– “Hey Jerry, you eve wear silk underwear?” – Kramer “No.” – Jerry “Put that on the top of your list.” – Kramer “No, not for me. A little too delightful.” – Jerry
– Jerry is still dating Rachel, as her father forgave them for making out at Schindler’s List
– “I never tasted a cough medicine I didn’t love.” – George “Me too. I love cough medicine.” – Jane
– “Hey Jerry. Rub some lotion on my back.” – Kramer “Who are you, Mrs. Robinson?” – Jerry
– “Yo Yo Ma” – Kramer “Boutros Boutros-Ghali.” – Jerry
– “Is it me or was that the ugliest baby you have ever seen?” – Jerry “Uh, I couldn’t look. It was like the Pekinese.” – Elaine “Boy, a little too much chlorine in that gene pool.” – Jerry
– “Yeah. I love Hampton tomatoes. You know, you can eat ’em like apples. You know it’s funny, the tomato never took on as a hand fruit.” – George “Well, the tomato’s an anomaly. So successful with the ketchup and the sauce, but you can’t find a good one.” – Jerry
– “Well, how good a look did you get?” – George “Well what’d you mean?” – Jerry “Well, if she was a criminal and you had to describe her to a police sketch artist…” – George “They’d pick her up in about ten minutes.” – Jerry
– “It’s like I’m Neil Armstrong. I turn around for a sip of Tang and you jump out first.” – George
– “Yes, because the water was cold… and the chewing warms me up.” – George
– “I was in the pool! I was in the pool!” – George
– Shrinkage becomes a pop culture catchphrase
– “Well I just got back from swimming in the pool. And the water was cold…” – George “Oh… You mean… shrinkage.” – Jerry “Yes. Significant shrinkage!” – George
– “Like when a man goes swimming… afterwards…” – Jerry “It shrinks?” – Elaine “Like a frightened turtle!” – Jerry “Why does it shrink?” – Elaine “It just does.” – George “I don’t know how you guys walk around with those things.” – Elaine
– “My father was a lobsterman. He got up every morning at four and came home every night stinking of brine. He sent me through law school with the lobsters he caught!” – Michael
– “Not that much. You know, they tend to shrink in the water.” – George
Oddities & Fun Facts
– Jerry & Elaine having to see the baby is a callback to “The Boyfriend” (S3, E17/18)
– This is the second of Jerry’s girlfriends that disliked George, the first was Jodi in “The Masseuse” (S5, E9)
Overall Grade (Scale 1-10)
JT: This was a nice offering for our penultimate episode. We had a super iconic sequence with all the shrinkage stuff and lots of other laughs blended in as well, with the lobster stuff as well as the ugly baby. I also like how Rachel stuck around across multiple episodes as we now got to know her a bit. There was some annoying stuff mixed in but overall this had lots of good, sharp lines and a classic moment to carry it. To me, that carries a lot of weight. Even if George’s hangdang doesn’t. Final Grade: 8/10
Aaron: The more I wrote about this one the further the grade sank. I wanted it to be a classic, and the shrinkage bit is legendary, but as a whole it fell a bit short for me. This one was good. Just plain old good. Final Grade: 7/10
Andrew: I’ve always enjoyed this episode. The “shrinkage” scene is a classic, and Kramer and Elaine are at the top of their game. There are some great lines and dialogue, and the plot has some great ideas in it. I just wish there was a better payoff to it all. It’s not quite perfect, but still one of my sentimental favorites. Final Grade: 8/10
Jordan: A few things keep this one from a perfect score for me: I hated Michael turning in Kramer, and I didn’t like the ending with George getting pelted with a tomato. Other than that, this was awesome. Final Grade: 9/10
Jason: It was nice to get an entire episode away from 129 West 81st Street. George’s iconic moment tops off an episode that I’ve watched countless times and gets better every time. Rachel might be Jerry’s longest girlfriend to date. Lots of good writing with the shrinkage, lobster and baby stuff. Between Jerry’s great lines and George coming up a little short, there’s very little to complain about here. Final Grade: 9/10
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Post by sbtbfanatic on Oct 19, 2015 2:12:18 GMT
Seinfeld Seasons 1 & 2 Review
In 1990, then little-known comedians Jerry Seinfeld and Larry David launched an unorthodox approach to the sitcom genre. Originally titled The Seinfeld Chronicles, the show was going to be a stand-in for Saturday Night Live one night. Eventually, the program was chopped into four separate episodes and played on the highly sought-after Thursday night time slot. Following some merely okay ratings but vigorous support from some NBC executives, Seinfeld was picked up for a thirteen-episode second season. Television history commenced.
Facts of the Case
The first volume of the Seinfeld DVD collection includes both Season One and Season Two, and the pilot, totaling 18 episodes:
Disc One: • "The Seinfeld Chronicles" (pilot) • "Male Un-bonding" • "The Stakeout" • "The Robbery" • "The Stock Tip"
Disc Two: • "The Ex-Girlfriend" • "The Pony Remark" • "The Busboy" • "The Baby Shower" • "The Jacket"
Disc Three: • "The Chinese Restaurant" • "The Phone Message" • "The Apartment" • "The Stranded" • "The Statue"
Disc Four: • "The Heart Attack" • "The Revenge" • "The Deal"
The Evidence
Seinfeld is far and away the most compulsively rewatchable television show I have ever known. Strolling through channels, when I stumble upon an episode—any episode—on any of the multiple syndication outlets I immediately settle in for the half hour. It's just one of those shows that hits a pitch-perfect note for me, scratches that itch, fits like a new suit, and any other cliché you can drum up that means "I like it a lot."
Like any other show, it took Seinfeld some time before it really found its stride and developed the crazy stories and characters it would become legendary for. For that reason, the early seasons on this volume reflect the whole niche-finding process a burgeoning show must endure in its early years. However, the shows on these four discs do foreshadow the genius that is yet to arrive, and contain many fantastic moments themselves. Season One sets the table for the tasty appetizers that Season Two will bring, all as a preamble to the sumptuous feast of the subsequent seasons.
The characters are finding their footing as well. Although not yet as defined as they will later be (understandably), Jerry (Jerry Seinfeld), George (Jason Alexander), Kramer (Michael Richards), and Elaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) are not short on the chemistry. Jerry in these early shows is more the straight man, whose laughs derive from his jokes and his riffing on his friends; his supercilious, shallow ways are yet to fully reveal themselves. George's neuroses will later become the stuff of legend, but here he is more Jerry's foil than anything else. Julia Louis-Dreyfus infuses her Elaine with a hint of the sass we'll come to expect (though there is little mention of her, er, sociability). And the K-man himself is quirky but not the over-the-top eccentric he'll become (though his scene in "The Revenge" where he pours concrete into a washing machine to get back at the shady owner is vintage Michael Richards physical comedy).
Granted, I prefer the later episodes in the series, but even in its embryonic years Seinfeld is funnier that most any other sitcom currently on the air. It is obvious that Larry David is still finding his writing groove with these episodes, and won't start hitting it out of the park until the show adopts the branching-storyline-where-anything-goes format, but again, it's early, and it's still pretty good.
This set contains lots of interesting and pivotal moments in the Seinfeld mythology: We catch a glimpse of Philip Bruns as Morty Seinfeld in "The Stakeout." In the same episode, George unveils two ongoing trademarks: the ubiquitous Art Vandelay, who sometimes imports and exports, and George's obsession with being an architect. Larry David has a few cameos, one as the voice of a pre–Wayne Knight Newman and the other as a crazy actor in a B-movie in "The Heart Attack"; and we get a little exposition on the Jerry-Elaine dynamic (interestingly, the creators never expected to get a third season, so the final episode of the second, "The Deal," where Jerry and Elaine try to formulate options to have sex and stay friends, was meant as a series capper).
Plus, you'll get "The Pony Remark" episode in this set, one of my favorite episodes of the whole series. "Who leaves a country packed with ponies for a non-pony country?!" Classic.
The episodes have been remastered and they all look great. These are the episodes as they originally aired, not the syndicated versions, and the transfers (in the original full-frame aspect ratio) are sharp and clean. They certainly don't look 15 years old. The Dolby Digital 2.0 stereo track is full and effective enough for a sitcom.
Sony has unleashed this clamored-for DVD release loaded with stuff. First, the set looks great. The artwork featuring the actors is simple and eye-pleasing; each disc case sports a close-up of one of the quartet. The front end of these DVDs is very cool. Each disc sports a different Seinfeld locale as the start-up menu. Each disc also boasts its own crop of special features—and there are plenty of them. Episodes feature a brief "inside look" where folks associated with the episodes offer some back story about the plot and the filming process (you'd be surprised at how many of these stories are rooted in Larry David's real life). "Notes About Nothing" reveals even more about the inspiration for the shows through a special text track.
There are only a handful of audio commentaries, but what's here is cool. The highlights are listening to the cast's recollections. Jason Alexander, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, and Michael Richards record tracks that, while not really rich or loaded with anecdotes, are still a treat because, well, it's frickin' George and Elaine and Kramer! (By the way, Michael Richards is strikingly subdued in the tracks, with Jason Alexander shouldering most of the burden of keeping the conversation rolling.) Larry David and Jerry Seinfeld also do a commentary, and unfortunately they don't talk nearly enough, until the end of the episode when they run out of time. It is priceless, though, to hear them make fun of their own writing, pacing, and wardrobe. (Larry David: "Well, that was like a school play.")
The high point of the bonus materials is the hour-long documentary on how the show came to be. "How It Began" features interviews with all the primary movies and shakers, form NBC executives to Jerry and Larry to the rest of the cast members. It's a great feature, funny and informative; hearing Larry David talk about openly weeping every time the series was picked up for another season is worth the retail price all by itself.
Some deleted scenes, a lengthy blooper reel, archive footage of Jerry Seinfeld's stand-up comedy, and a bunch of promotional materials round out this substantial offering.
Closing Statement
If you're a fan, you own this. If you're not…well, I don't know if I want to talk to you anymore. Sure, the wait was insufferable for this series to make it to the digital world, but the quality that's on display here makes up for it. The only thing that's minimalist about this set is the episode plots.
The Verdict
Not guilty. You better believe it, buddy.
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Post by sbtbfanatic on Oct 19, 2015 2:12:49 GMT
Seinfeld Season 3 Review
Seinfeld entered its third season in the fall of 1991 with critical accolades galore, a loyal cult following, and a strong vote of confidence from NBC. What it didn't have was ratings. Although respectable, Seinfeld's Nielsen numbers weren't in the same ballpark with NBC's Thursday night comedies (led by perennial ratings monsters The Cosby Show and Cheers). However, for the first time NBC slotted Seinfeld into its fall schedule (previously, it had been a midseason replacement series), tucking it in at 9:30 on Wednesday night after Night Court, which was entering what would be its last season. (In the end, NBC would also order a complete 22-episode season of Seinfeld, another first for the show.)
But the creators and producers of the show didn't really care about all of this. Seinfeld was so different from other sitcoms, both in its humor and its production, that they were essentially isolated in a world of their own. The third season of Seinfeld was still written primarily by two Larrys—David and Charles—with little input from outside the tight circle of Seinfeld's core staff. It was still based largely on Larry David's neurotic world view, as filtered through the observational comedy of the show's star, Jerry Seinfeld.
If the first two seasons of Seinfeld were the birth pangs of a show trying to force its way into the world, this third season was its adolescence and young adulthood—a time when the show discovered what it was, and what it could be. Featuring the first few "classic" Seinfeld episodes, the set is remarkably consistent in its high level of quality and humor. Audiences responded, too—the show steadily grew in popularity (as reflected by its ratings) throughout the season. (In fact, midway through the season the show was flip-flopped with Night Court, since NBC felt—correctly, as it turned out—that Seinfeld would do a better job of holding the audience generated by its 8:00 lead-in Unsolved Mysteries.) By the end of the 1991-92 season, Seinfeld's return was a foregone conclusion. By the end of the next season, it would be tapped as the successor to Cheers in the marquee Thursday 9:00 timeslot. The rest is history. Yada yada yada.
Facts of the Case
It's a show about nothing that winds up being about everything.
In case you've been under a rock or living in a cave for the past two decades, Seinfeld is very loosely based on the life of stand-up comedian Jerome Seinfeld (you know him as Jerry), who plays himself. Seinfeld had been performing stand-up since his college days, but made his first real splash—as so many other comics have—on the Tonight Show in 1981. He became a favorite of Johnny Carson, and made many appearances on the Tonight Show and David Letterman's Late Night over the years. He even appeared on Benson for a brief time, an experience that almost completely turned him against television comedy.
Seinfeld, like his contemporaries Jay Leno, Richard Lewis, Carol Leifer, and George Miller, had developed an "observational" style of stand-up comedy, inspired in no small part by George Carlin's stand-up act. Seinfeld's jokes weren't gags; they were observations that highlighted the humor in everyday situations—anything from airline food to supermarket checkout stands. It was clever and different, but not as aggressive or off-putting as Carlin's highly political rants were to some. On its own, though, it didn't seem to be the kind of comedy that would translate well to television.
Enter Larry David. David was a largely unsuccessful stand-up comedian who had turned to comedy writing, specifically sketch comedy for television. He wound up as a writer and performer on ABC's Saturday Night Live clone Fridays, where he met a talented physical comedian named Michael Richards. After Fridays went under, and after a brief and unsatisfying mid-'80s stint at SNL itself, David found himself teaming with Seinfeld on a sitcom pilot, The Seinfeld Chronicles. The premise of the show was, roughly, "how does a comic get his material?" Clips of Seinfeld's stand-up act punctuated a stand-alone story that showed the "real life" events that inspired those jokes. David suggested Richards for the cast; he became Seinfeld's neighbor Kessler. Rounding out the cast for the pilot was Jason Alexander, a well-regarded Broadway actor who had just won a Tony for his role in Jerome Robbins' Broadway. Alexander was cast as George Costanza, Jerry's neurotic best friend—a character based not-so-loosely on Larry David himself. Rounding out the cast was Lee Garlington (The Sum of All Fears) as Claire, a waitress at the local diner whom Jerry and George knew well.
NBC, who had paid for the pilot, wasn't thrilled by it. They aired it on July 5, 1989 (a Wednesday), in the midst of the summer rerun season. Unsurprisingly, it did not score well in the ratings. And so that was that—or so it was thought. But a few people inside NBC thought the show had promise, and lobbied hard for it. NBC executives relented, and allowed production of four additional episodes, which ultimately aired in May and June of 1990. Some changes were made to the show for these four episodes, however. Claire the Waitress was gone; NBC felt the show needed a stronger female presence. In came former SNL player Julia Louis-Dreyfus as Jerry's sort-of girlfriend Elaine Benes (loosely based on Carol Leifer). Kessler had been renamed Kramer, too. Finally, the show was no longer based on exploring the source of Jerry's stand-up act; instead, it just told its observational stories and used the stand-up as a garnish.
The four new episodes weren't highly rated, but critics were, for the most part, extremely verbose in their praise for the show. It was enough to get NBC to order 13 episodes of the show for the 1990-91 season. It began airing in January as a mid-season replacement. Ratings were fairly poor, but again the critical response was extremely positive. And the people who did watch were in extremely attractive advertising demographics, making the show more of a success for NBC than its plain ratings would indicate.
And so Seinfeld finally got a full 22-episode run in the 1991-92 television season—a season that's contained in full on this DVD set. Once again we return to 129 W. 81st St. and find our four protagonists continuing to find new ways to screw up their lives, and the lives of others…
The Evidence
Seinfeld: Season Three has all the Season Three episodes, on four nicely-packaged discs. Note that the episodes are presented in their production order, not in their broadcast order.
Disc One
• The Note George goes to Jerry's physical therapist for a massage when he learns health insurance might cover it. However, when his masseuse turns out to be a man, and "it moves" during the massage, George begins to doubt his own sexuality. Meanwhile, Jerry gets his dentist friend in trouble after he asks him to write a note prescribing massages for his insurance company. Kramer, meanwhile, insists he's spotted Joe DiMaggio at a local donut shop. He's a dunker.
• The Truth Jerry is being audited, but George's new girlfriend (Valerie Mahaffey, Fresno), who knows people at the IRS, promises to take care of things for him. However, when George tells her the truth—that he finds her pretentious and wants to break up with her—she checks herself into a mental hospital, taking all of Jerry's tax records with her. Meanwhile, awkwardness ensues after Kramer sees Elaine naked.
• The Dog Jerry grudgingly agrees to take care of a pet dog when the man sitting next to him on a plane (Joseph Maher) suddenly falls ill on-board. George and Elaine, forced to attend a movie sans Jerry (who's watching the ill-tempered dog) realize that they have nothing in common—other than Jerry.
• The Library Jerry is hounded by a tenacious, Jack Webb-like New York Public Library library cop (Philip Baker Hall, Magnolia) over an overdue copy of Tropic of Cancer. George has flashbacks of humiliation after he sees his now-homeless former gym teacher on the steps of the library.
• The Pen Jerry and Elaine visit the Seinfelds at their retirement condo complex in Florida. Trouble ensues when Jerry accepts a pen from his father's friend Jack Klompus (Sandy Baron, Broadway Danny Rose), throwing the retirees' tightly-wound society into turmoil. Stelllllaaaaaaaaaaa!!!!!!
Disc Two
• The Parking Garage The Gang of Four can't find their car in a parking garage. Elaine loses a pair of pets, and George learns not to insult Scientology.
• The Café Jerry takes pity on a Pakistani restaurant owner, Babu Bhatt (Brian George, Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery), after he notices how the restaurant always seems empty. However, Jerry's advice turns out to be disastrous—for he is a bery, bery bad man. Meanwhile, Elaine helps George cheat on an IQ test.
• The Tape Jerry searches to find out the identity of the mystery woman who spoke some extremely erotic dialogue into the tape recorder he used to record his nightclub act. It turns out to be Elaine, who was playing a joke on him. But it's too late—everyone's really turned on now. Especially George, who chooses to discontinue his use of a new (but stinky) miracle baldness cure to keep from repelling her.
• The Nose Job George dates a woman (Susan Diol) who is beautiful, but for her giant nose. A pointed comment from Kramer sends her to the plastic surgeon, but the rhinoplasty turns out to make things even worse. Meanwhile, Jerry has to decide whether or not to dump an actress (Tawny Kitaen) who is great in bed, but who is also an idiot.
• The Alternate Side Jerry's car is stolen; when he calls his car phone, he winds up in a conversation with the thief (Larry David). George learns that a guy named Sid (Jay Brooks) makes decent coin by moving the locals' parked cars from one side of the street to the other (in order to avoid parking tickets). When Sid goes on vacation, George offers to cover for him. It doesn't go well. Kramer gets a speaking line ("These pretzels are making me thirsty") in a Woody Allen movie, but he's cut out after George's parking incompetence disrupts filming.
Disc Three
• The Red Dot Jerry accidentally gives a drink to Elaine's recovering-alcoholic boyfriend Dick (David Naughton, An American Werewolf in London), causing him to fall off the wagon. George gets fired for having sex with a cleaning lady in his cubicle after work. He also tries to give a flawed cashmere sweater (the flaw being the titular red dot) as a gift to Elaine.
• The Suicide When Jerry's scary-looking neighbor attempts suicide and falls into a coma, Jerry moves in on his girlfriend (Gina Gallego, The Bold and the Beautiful). But fellow tenant Newman (Wayne Knight, Basic Instinct) threatens to spill the beans when the guy awakes. George decides to avoid a vacation when a psychic tells him it will be catastrophic. Kramer goes instead, and—predictably—has a fantastic time.
• The Subway The show follows the Gang of Four as each go their separate ways on the subway. Elaine is trying to make it to a lesbian wedding, but the train gets stuck. Jerry falls asleep, awakes to find a naked guy (Ernie Sabella, The Lion King) sitting across from him, begins to talk Mets baseball with him, and winds up going to Coney Island with him. Kramer overhears a hot horse tip ("He's a mudder. His mother was a mudder. His father was a mudder.") and makes a bundle. George meets a beautiful woman (Barbara Stock, Dallas) and thinks he's going to score. Needless to say, he doesn't.
• The Pez Dispenser Jerry, Elaine, and George go to a piano recital given by George's new girlfriend Noel (Elizabeth Morehead). Jerry uses his Tweety Pez dispenser to make Elaine laugh hysterically during the show, disrupting Noel's performance. George decides he needs "hand" (the upper hand) in the relationship, and pre-emptively breaks up with her. It works fantastically well—until she hears a familiar laugh…
• The Boyfriend (parts 1 and 2) "Who does this guy think he is?" "I'm Keith Hernandez!"
Disc Four
• The Fix-Up Elaine and Jerry decide to set George up with Elaine's friend Cynthia (Maggie Jakobson, AKA Maggie Wheeler, Friends). They actually get along well, but a defective condom (provided by Kramer) threatens to throw everything into chaos.
• The Limo George is supposed to pick Jerry up at the airport, but his car breaks down on the way there. Jerry sees a limo driver waiting for a guy who had been left behind in Chicago; he and George decide to pretend to be that guy (and a companion) in order to use the limo. When they find out they're headed toward Madison Square Garden, they think they're heading for the Knicks/Bulls game. But when the driver picks up the "other guests," it immediately becomes apparent that basketball isn't in their future…
• The Good Samaritan Jerry witnesses a car sideswipe another parked car; the driver takes off without leaving a note. He follows the driver with the intent to confront him, but discovers that it's not a him, but a her (Melinda McGraw, The X-Files). And he winds up dating her. Unfortunately, she turns out to be a little nuts—and her victim turns out to be the blonde woman from across the street (Helen Slater, Supergirl), for whom Jerry has a huge crush. Meanwhile, George has an affair with Elaine's married friend (Ann Talman).
• The Letter Jerry wants to break up with his artist girlfriend (Catherine Keener, Being John Malkovich), but a touching letter changes his mind. At least until he finds out the letter was cribbed directly from Neil Simon's Chapter Two. Her painting of Kramer, though, is a smash hit. Elaine gets into trouble for wearing an Orioles cap in the Yankee owner's box at Yankee Stadium.
• The Parking Space George and Kramer's friend Mike (Lee Arenberg, Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl) argue over whether the person backing in or the person pulling in have the right to a parking space. The argument lasts well into the night, attracting opinions from virtually everyone in the neighborhood.
• The Keys Kramer's habit of using his set of keys to Jerry's apartment on a whim sets off a merry-go-round of key exchanges that don't really help matters. But George and Jerry discover that Elaine is secretly writing a spec script for Murphy Brown. Kramer decides to go seek success in Hollywood, and winds up as a bit player on…you guessed it…Murphy Brown. To be continued…
Seinfeld, at this point in its history, was a remarkably consistent sitcom. At worst, these episodes easily reach the "very funny" standard. At best ("The Library," "The Pen," " The Café," "The Boyfriend"), they are historic. A large part of this stems from Seinfeld's blissful ignorance of most situation comedy conventions. Seinfeld is paced more like a stage comedy; intricately woven dialogue replaces the traditional "gag-laugh-pause-repeat" pattern of most sitcoms. In fact, as one of the episode commentaries notes, a more apt parallel for Seinfeld is the old Yiddish and burlesque theater. Jason Alexander, in an interview, discusses how Seinfeld's humor differs from most comedy. He says that all the humor in the show really arises from the ridiculous situations the characters find themselves in. The characters often act reasonably; it's the circumstances that are funny.
At its best, the third season of Seinfeld is as crisply and wittily staged as a Molière farce. Just look at the density of the dialogue in, for example, "The Pen." Television comedy just hadn't been made like this, at least not since Milton Berle and Sid Caesar formed the first standards of television comedy definitively in the vaudevillian mold. The ensemble nature of Seinfeld first developed in this season, too. The aforementioned "The Pen" was the last episode that didn't feature all four of the main players at least once. (It was the only show without George; Kramer had also been AWOL in Season Two's "The Chinese Restaurant.") Season Three also saw a shift in the way the main characters were drawn. As the season progressed, all became more neurotic, erratic, and self-absorbed. These are people who really did horrible things to each other on a regular basis, but in the end, they were stuck with each other. (Who else could possibly want to befriend these bizarre people?) Even poor Elaine, who started out fairly normal, was halfway to Jerryhood by the end of this season. Other commentators have beaten the "why we like Seinfeld" question to death; I'm not going to do so here. Suffice it to say that there's a lot of these characters in each of us, allowing us to identify with them; yet we somehow find it non-threatening to our egos to laugh at the obtuseness of these four.
Given the level of Seinfeld syndication saturation, it's unlikely that anyone reading this would lack exposure to the show, or not know whether or not they like it. The real question posed by these Seinfeld DVD sets is, "What, if anything, do they provide for the Seinfeld fan that justifies spending their purchase price?" The answer is "quite a bit."
First, there's the convenience of being able to watch your favorite episodes whenever you want. That's a plus right there. (Heck, I've watched "The Pen"—one of the three or four greatest Seinfeld episodes ever—three times already.) Plus, the picture quality is superior to your typical broadcast picture. Colors are very vivid and sharp, as is the overall picture—but not so sharp that you forget this show was filmed and not videotaped. (Not that there's anything wrong with that.) Sound is adequate—it's a Dolby stereo mix that's nothing to brag about, but it gets the job done. The package claims that these are the full, network-length episodes, not the shorter syndication version episodes—another big plus, if true. However, I have no way to evaluate this claim, although I also have no reason to suspect that it's false.
The healthy bundle of extras is what really adds value to this package. Several of the episodes have commentary tracks, which fall into three main categories. There are the "Larry and Jerry" commentaries, which pair Seinfeld and David. These are about what you'd expect—they don't talk a lot, and they dwell on obscure details from time to time, but there's a lot of interesting tidbits in there. There are also the "Julia/Michael/Jason" commentaries, which reunite the three "other" members of Jerry's Kids in various combinations. They have the best behind-the-scenes info, and their affection for each other is obvious. Finally, there are the "Somebody Else" commentaries. These are usually focused on the episode in question, rather than the show in general. But they have their moments. Apparently, it was a controversy over these commentary tracks that delayed the release of Seinfeld on DVD—so it probably shouldn't surprise me that less than half of the episodes have commentaries.
Possibly the best of the extras is the series of "Inside Looks" that accompany each episode. They are 3-5 minute mini-documentaries that explore aspects of the episode in question—what real-life incident inspired it, information about guest stars, cast recollections of filming the show, and the like. These mini-features are chock full of fun, interesting trivia, and are not to be skipped. Similar, but a little more schizophrenic, are the "Notes About Nothing" text commentary tracks. Similar in nature to the Michael Okuda-penned text commentaries on the Star Trek DVD releases, these commentaries are a rapid-fire series of factoids about people, places, quotes, and events in the show. However, you never know what you're going to get. Sometimes, it's information about a guest star's other credits in film and television. Sometimes, it's an explanation that the Dewey Decimal System is a method of cataloguing books in libraries. Occasionally, it's something that anyone over the age of six—let alone the typical Seinfeld fan—would know off the top of their heads, which seems patronizing and unnecessary. On the whole, though, the text tracks are worthwhile (although much of the good info is recapped in the better "Inside Look" featurettes).
Deleted scenes are provided for some episodes. Usually, these are either alternate takes of scenes that were changed for broadcast, or small bits of scenes that were snipped for time purposes. It's fun to see them, but there's nothing earth-shattering here. (Many of the scenes are either shown or discussed in the "Inside Looks" and "Notes About Nothing," to boot.) More interesting is the "Master of His Domain" feature, a collection of unused bits from the stand-up routines filmed for the show. Some NBC promos, and a photo gallery, are also provided.
There's one substantial featurette included here: "Kramer vs. Kramer: Kenny to Cosmo." Although you'd think, given the title, that this was about the Kramer character and his real-life inspiration (indeed, the DVD box describes it as such), it's actually more of an in-depth look at actor Michael Richards. (But yes, we do briefly see Kenny Kramer, the real-life inspiration for the Kramer character.) It's a good featurette for fans, mainly because Richards is so different than what you'd expect him to be like, given the character he plays. His exceptional skill at physical comedy is a gift, but it's also the result of a lot of hard work and focus. I guarantee you'll have a better appreciation of his efforts on the show after watching this little featurette.
The only thing wrong with this set is that it ends. But fear not, there's plenty more Seinfeld to come. Until then, Seinfeld: Season Three is a winner for fans.
Closing Statement
I have a confession to make: Although I watched the show devotedly from its inception (including "The Seinfeld Chronicles") to the final episode, I never watched Seinfeld in reruns. Until now. Frankly, I didn't think the show would hold up well for me in repeats. I was so completely, thoroughly wrong in that assessment that it's hard for me to comprehend that I ever believed it. Seinfeld is far from a show about nothing. It's intelligent, and dense with its intricate style of comedy. Because it doesn't rely on jokes and gags for humor, it holds up to repeated viewings like no other sitcom in recent television history. I was laughing just as hard while re-watching episodes I had seen less than an hour before. How often does that happen with a television comedy?
The Verdict
"I don't judge a man by the length of his hair or the kind of music he listens to. Rock was never my bag. But you put on a pair of shoes when you walk into the New York Public Library, fella."
[Editor's Note: Sony used two differing, competing labels to refer to this collection. At varying points on the packaging, it was referred to as either "Season Three" or "Volume Two." We have opted to label it, for our purposes, as strictly Season Three, since that seems the most logical and helpful point of reference for you, the reader and consumer.]
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Post by sbtbfanatic on Oct 19, 2015 2:15:22 GMT
Seinfeld Season 4 Review
Larry David is a genius. Let's get that out of the way up front. Before becoming famous in front of the camera on his HBO series, Curb Your Enthusiasm, David was chief among the twisted minds behind Seinfeld. His peculiar sense of humor—particularly his obsessions with the minutiae of his own life, and the gray areas of social propriety and obligation (e.g. if you buy Ted Danson a shirt for a gift, and it's missing a button, is it your responsibility to exchange it or Ted's?)—is the driving force behind both shows.
Nowhere is this more evident than in Seinfeld's fourth season. The show about nothing became the show about itself when David proposed a season-long story arc in which Jerry and George pitch a sitcom to NBC just as the real Seinfeld and David (who was the inspiration for George) had. The line between the show and the lives of its creators had always been a thin one, but David was up to something new. The fourth season of Seinfeld would be like a wicked little ouroboros, turning in on itself, examining and highlighting the very things that had made its first three seasons such groundbreaking television, and delivering comedy that relied on a dense web of self-referential continuity. It would pull the show inside-out and, as its pièce de résistance, end at the beginning with a two-part finale called "The Pilot."
Warren Littlefield and the other NBC executives were skeptical, but Season Four—which happened to coincide with the exit of network stalwart Cheers—made Seinfeld a pop culture phenomenon and the new anchor of NBC's ratings-dominating Thursday night lineup.
Facts of the Case
Volume Three of Seinfeld on DVD contains all 24 episodes of the fourth season, spread across four discs:
Disc One:
• "The Trip (Part 1)" So, that's one tuck and one no-tuck.—George
Picking up where Season Three finale, "The Keys," left off, Jerry takes George to L.A. with him for an appearance on The Tonight Show. After seeing Kramer's cameo on Murphy Brown, they want to look him up while they're in town. The K-man is living in a flea bag hotel, where's he's attracted the attention of the landlord, Helene (Elmarie Wendel, 3rd Rock from the Sun), a Norma Desmond-like one-time ingénue of Three Stooges shorts. He runs into Fred Savage (The Wonder Years) at a café, and terrifies the actor while trying to pitch a movie treatment to him. The Smog Strangler is on the loose in the city, and a hard-nosed cop named Johnny Martel suspects Kramer is the murderer. Controversy erupts between George and Jerry over whether Lupe, the chambermaid at their hotel, should tuck or untuck the sheets on their beds. Backstage at The Tonight Show, George annoys Corbin Bernsen (L.A. Law) and George Wendt (Cheers). Jerry's routine bombs because Lupe threw out his notes. Grade: B
Episode Extras: Commentary with writer Larry Charles; Notes About Nothing; Inside Look; deleted scenes.
• "The Trip (Part 2)" Yes! I'm free because the murderer struck again. Hey!—Kramer
Determined to exonerate Kramer, Jerry and George call the LAPD in order to vouch for his character. When Lt. Martel sends a black-and-white out to pick up the clueless duo for questioning, the officers inadvertently nab the real Smog Strangler (Clint Howard, Evilspeak) on a 519. George and Jerry argue with the killer over the proper amount to tip a chambermaid. Kramer is arrested and interrogated by Martel, but is cleared as a suspect when there's a murder in Laurel Canyon while he's in custody. George pulls a hamstring when Lupe forgets to leave his sheets untucked. Grade: B
Episode Extras: Commentary with writer Larry Charles; Notes About Nothing.
• "The Pitch/The Ticket" Artistic integrity?!? Where'd you come up with that? You aren't artistic, and you have no integrity.—Jerry
After one of Jerry's sets, NBC executives Stu Chermak and Jay Crespi (based on real NBC suits Rick Ludwin and Jeremiah Bosgang) approach him about creating a series. The problem is, he doesn't have an idea for a sitcom. George and Kramer pitch outlandish ideas that involve antique shops and circus freaks, but none of them appeals to Jerry. George comes up with the idea of a show comprised of their inane daily conversations, a show about nothing. While waiting to pitch the show to the NBC executives, Jerry runs into a psychologically unstable writer, Crazy Joe Davola. He makes a faux pas, mentioning Kramer's upcoming party, to which Davola has not been invited. The "nothing" pitch to NBC president Russell Dalrymple (based on Warren Littlefield, and played by Bob Balaban, Close Encounters of the Third Kind) doesn't go well. George arranges a date with Susan Ross (Heidi Swedberg, Hot Shots!), one of the NBC executives, but Kramer vomits on her after accidentally drinking sour milk. Elaine is traveling Europe with her controlling psychiatrist/boyfriend, Dr. Reston (Stephen McHattie, Secretary).
Kramer swaps his radar detector for Newman's (Wayne Knight, Jurassic Park) motorcycle helmet. The radar detector's a lemon and Newman gets a speeding ticket; the helmet saves Kramer from a kick to the head by Crazy Joe Davola, though he suffers some aftershocks. Davola's out for revenge against Jerry, too, because he believes Jerry sabotaged his deal with NBC. Kramer's confusion and amnesia becomes a major problem when Newman needs him as a witness in the court case contesting his speeding ticket. Frustrated that it doesn't keep good time, Jerry throws a watch his parents gave him into a trash can on the street. It's subsequently recovered by Uncle Leo. George and Jerry's second meeting with NBC goes much more smoothly, but George is offended by their offer of $13,000 to write the pilot. Grade: A Episode Extras: Notes About Nothing; Inside Look.
• "The Wallet" Elaine, do you remember your dream where you had a sexual encounter with a Chinese woman?—Dr. Reston
Morty and Helen Seinfeld (Barney Martin and Liz Sheridan) come to New York from Florida so Morty can see a back specialist because of pain caused by their sleeper sofa (see Season Three's "The Pen"). Morty embarrasses Uncle Leo, who arranged the appointment, by accusing the prestigious doctor of stealing his wallet. When the subject of the watch Morty and Helen gave Jerry comes up, he tells them it's at the jeweler being repaired. Helen's upset when she finds out Davola's after her son. Jerry's ready to accept NBC's deal, but George tells Susan they're passing because it's nowhere near the money Ted Danson makes. Susan gives George a gift of Cuban cigars from her father, but they make him nauseous so he gives them to Kramer. Elaine's back from Europe and wants to break it off with Dr. Reston, but can't because he has an eerie power over her. She pretends she has a new boyfriend in order to drive Reston away. When he demands to know the man's name, she tells him it's Kramer. Grade: A Episode Extras: Notes About Nothing; deleted scenes.
• "The Watch" You know, this is how they negotiate in the Bizarro World.—Jerry
Jerry offers to buy his watch back from Uncle Leo so his parents won't know he threw it away, but Leo proves to be a tough haggler. Helen pushes Jerry into asking out Naomi, an attractive restaurant hostess, but is horrified to discover she has an obnoxious laugh. Morty insists on picking up the restaurant tab, though he doesn't have his wallet. When Russell Dalrymple passes on the show instead of making a counter offer, George gets his home address from Susan's planner and pays him an unannounced weekend visit, but Dalrymple plays hardball on the deal. Kramer calls Dr. Reston at Elaine's behest, but is manipulated into meeting with him face-to-face. While the two men are discussing Elaine at the doctor's office, she meets and arranges a date with one of Reston's other patients: Crazy Joe Davola. Jerry buys Morty a new wallet to replace the one lost, and secretly puts $400 in it to replace his lost cash. Morty throws it away because he hates Velcro connectors, and Uncle Leo retrieves it from the trash. Grade: A Episode Extras: Notes About Nothing.
Disc Two:
• "The Bubble Boy" It'd break your heart seeing him in there. He's like a prisoner. No friends. Just his mother and me. And I'm out there six days a week hauling Yoo-hoo.—Mel Sanger
Jerry and Naomi are supposed to join George and Susan for a weekend upstate at Susan's father's cabin, but Naomi cancels when George compares her laugh to Elmer Fudd's. At Monk's Diner, Jerry and Elaine meet Mel Sanger (Brian Doyle-Murray, Saturday Night Live), a Yoo-hoo truck driver whose son, Donald (Seinfeld writer John Hayman), has an immune deficiency that forces him to live in a plastic bubble. The kid is a fan of Jerry's and Sanger asks him to pay him a visit on their way upstate. Kramer uses one of his Cuban cigars to bribe a golf pro into arranging a round at the Westchester Country Club. Obsessed with making good time, George loses Jerry on the way upstate and arrives at the bubble boy's house before him. Jerry fights with a rest stop diner waitress over an autographed picture. A Trivial Pursuit game between George and the caustic and belligerent Donald devolves into fisticuffs, raising the ire of the local townsfolk. When Kramer's golf outing falls through, and Naomi has a change of heart, they decide to surprise everyone up at the cabin. The already less-than-perfect weekend is ruined when Kramer's misplaced Cuban burns down the cabin. Grade: A Episode Extras: Notes About Nothing; Inside Look.
• "The Cheever Letters" Maybe I'll go visit my mother. She just bought me some new panties and they're all…laid out for me.—Elaine
Jerry and George begin writing the pilot for the sitcom, but have trouble focusing. Jerry is annoyed because Elaine's assistant, Sandra, makes small talk whenever he calls. When Elaine asks her to stop, she's devastated and Jerry feels guilty. He goes out on a sympathy date with her, but makes a fool of himself when trying to respond cleverly to her dirty talk. Kramer's upset because the loss of the Cubans in the cabin fire means he may have to go back to playing public golf courses. He arranges a visit with the Cuban embassy in New York to try and rectify the situation. George is meeting Susan's parents (Warren Frost and Grace Zabriskie) for the first time, but must break the news to Mr. Ross that the cabin's been burned to the ground. The insurance company delivers the only thing to survive the fire: a box of letters that reveal a decades-past homosexual relationship between Mr. Ross and writer John Cheever. Grade: A Episode Extras: Commentary with Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Jason Alexander, and Michael Richards; Notes About Nothing; Inside Look; deleted scenes.
• "The Opera" I know you badmouthed me to the execs at NBC. Put the kibosh on my deal. Now I'm gonna put the kibosh on you. You know I've kiboshed before. And I will kibosh again.—Crazy Joe Davola
Kramer has tickets to see Pavarotti in Pagliacci. Jerry's reluctant to go, but is anxious to meet Elaine's new beau Joey. The mystery-man is none other than Crazy Joe Davola, who, off of his meds, has been leaving threatening messages on Jerry's machine. He's also built a shrine to Elaine, made of photographs he's secretly taken of her. The night of the opera, George is plagued with an ill-fitting tux. He and Kramer attempt to scalp a couple of the tickets, but George has a run-in with the father of a friend at whose wedding he'd made a profanity-laden toast years earlier. Kramer's childhood fear of clowns is rekindled when Davola shows up at the opera house, dressed as Pagliacci. Grade: A Episode Extras: Notes About Nothing; Inside Look; deleted scenes.
• "The Virgin" They always remember the first time. I don't want to be remembered. I want to be forgotten.—George
Jerry rekindles a relationship with Marla (Jane Leeves, Frasier), a closet organizer he'd been interested in around the time of the fall of the Berlin Wall. He's taken aback, though, when she confesses to being a virgin. Elaine makes a faux pas when she tells Marla an involved story about her diaphragm. George is bummed out when he realizes that Susan is his full-fledged girlfriend, and he can't date other women. He's trapped in a double-bind: If he didn't have a girlfriend, he could use his job writing Jerry to impress women, but if he breaks it off with Susan the show may be dropped by NBC. Kramer's gotten rid of his TV because of its negative influence in his life, but spends all of his time watching Jerry's. Elaine jaywalks and is involved in an accident with Ping, a Chinese food delivery man, who slaps her with a lawsuit. George comes up with an idea for the pilot that the network suits love: Jerry gets in a car accident, and the judge sentences the other driver to be his butler. George gets Susan fired by kissing her during a meeting at NBC, but finds women are less impressed by his job as a sitcom writer than he'd anticipated.
Episode Extras: Notes About Nothing; deleted scene.
• "The Contest" The question is, are you still master of your domain?—Jerry
George's mother (Estelle Harris, Toy Story 2) falls, injures her back, and has to be hospitalized after catching George…you know: he was alone…he had a Glamour magazine…When he vows never to do that again, it leads to a contest between himself, Jerry, Kramer, and Elaine to see who can go the longest without doing it. The challenge become unbearable when a woman in an apartment across the street from Jerry's spends her time walking around naked; Jerry's intimacy with Marla the virgin proceeds at a snail's pace; John F. Kennedy Jr. attends in Elaine's aerobics class; and George is haunted by the silhouette of a gorgeous nurse sponge-bathing an equally gorgeous patient in the hospital bed next to his mother's. Grade: A+
Episode Extras: Commentary with Jerry Seinfeld; Notes About Nothing; Inside Look; deleted scenes.
Disc Three:
• "The Airport" I like to stop at the duty-free shop. I like to stop at the duty-free shop.—George and Kramer
On a flight back from St. Louis, Jerry and Elaine get a single-seat upgrade. Jerry takes the first class seat, leaving Elaine in coach. Jerry meets a beautiful model name Tia, while Elaine suffers a surly flight attendant (JM J. Bullock, Too Close for Comfort) and a "human slug" in the seat next to her. Meanwhile, George and Kramer try to make their way to JFK to pick up Jerry and Elaine. Matters are complicated when Kramer takes the Long Island Expressway to the airport instead of George's Grand Central/Van Wyck route. Once at the airport, Kramer runs into an old roommate, Grossbard, who owes him 240 bucks, and George has a close encounter with a notorious criminal on his way to prison. Grade: A Episode Extras: Commentary with writer Larry Charles; Notes About Nothing; Inside Look; deleted scene; alternate ending.
• "The Pick" It is not me who has been exposed but you, for I have seen the nipple on your soul!—Elaine
George has second thoughts after breaking up with Susan, and decides to see Elaine's new therapist, Dana Foley (Gina Hecht, Mork & Mindy), to deal with his obsession. Kramer takes Elaine's picture for her Christmas card, but neither notices until it's too late that one of her nipples was exposed. Tia is modeling for print ads for a new Calvin Klein fragrance—The Ocean—a rip-off of Kramer's fragrance idea, The Beach (see "The Pez Dispenser" from Season Three). Kramer wants Tia to arrange a meeting with Calvin Klein, but Jerry's relationship with her is on the skids because she thinks she saw him picking his nose. Grade: B+
Episode Extras: Notes About Nothing; Inside Look; deleted scenes.
• "The Visa" Yeah, well, Joe Pepitone or not, I own the inside of that plate.—Kramer
George meets Cheryl Fong, an immigration lawyer. He charms her with his sense of humor, but worries she won't be attracted to him if Jerry and Elaine are funnier than him in her presence. It turns out Cheryl is Ping's cousin, "the shark" who's suing Elaine over the jaywalking incident. She agrees to drop the case against Elaine. Meanwhile, Kramer's away at a baseball fantasy camp where he plunks Joe Pepitone, then accidentally punches Mickey Mantle during the bench-clearing brawl that follows. Babu Bhatt is working at Monk's Diner after the failure of his Pakistani restaurant (see "The Café" from Season Two), and Jerry has gotten him an apartment in his building. Unfortunately, he faces deportation when Elaine and Jerry accidentally lose his visa-renewal application. Grade: A Episode Extras: Notes About Nothing; Inside Look.
• "The Movie" Have you seen a tall, lanky doofus with a bird face and hair like the Bride of Frankenstein?—Elaine
Jerry, Elaine, Kramer, and George are supposed to meet at the Paragon to see Checkmate. The plan goes awry when Jerry gets stuck sharing a cab with hack comedian Pat Buckles, Kramer has a hankering for a Papaya King hot dog, George is hassled by a diminutive theater usher, and Elaine stresses out trying to save everyone a seat in the theater. They miss Checkmate, but somehow end up at Rochelle Rochelle, a movie about a young woman's strange, erotic journey from Milan to Minsk. Grade: B+
Episode Extras: Notes About Nothing; deleted scene.
• "The Outing" We're not gay…not that there's anything wrong with it.—Jerry
George's latest girlfriend, Allison, won't let him break up with her. Sharon Leonard, a reporter for NYU's newspaper, comes to the mistaken conclusion that Jerry and George are lovers. A defective two-line phone Kramer buys Jerry as a birthday gift makes matters worse. Jerry freaks out when George's birthday gift to him is tickets for Guys and Dolls, and Elaine's is The Collected Works of Bette Midler. Kramer's offended that Jerry has hidden his homosexuality from him all these years, and Jerry's mother blames herself because of a pair of culottes she accidentally bought him from the girl's department when he was a kid. The news causes George's mother to fall again. She ends up in the hospital where George is haunted by the silhouette of a male nurse sponge bathing a male patient in the bed next to his mother's. Still, the outing may be George's key to successfully dumping Allison. Grade: A+
Episode Extras: Commentary with Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Jason Alexander, and Michael Richards; Notes About Nothing; Inside Look; deleted scenes.
• "The Shoes" Looking at cleavage is like looking at the sun. You don't stare at it. It's too risky. You get a sense of it, then you look away.—Jerry
Jerry and George complete the script for the pilot of Jerry, but George snaps when Dana Foley doesn't find it funny. Kramer proves himself a true friend by snubbing Gail Cunningham, a chef who dated Jerry three times but wouldn't kiss him goodnight. Elaine is offended when Gail compliments her Botticelli shoes. The deal with NBC is torpedoed when Dalrymple catches George ogling his 15-year-old daughter (Denise Richards, Wild Things). To win back the deal, Jerry, George, and Elaine set up a sting operation at Pfeiffer's restaurant, where Gail works and Dalrymple favors the pasta primavera. Grade: A Episode Extras: Notes About Nothing.
Disc Four:
• "The Old Man" Oh, my God. The Mahatma?!?—Elaine
Elaine, George, and Jerry sign up to do volunteer work with senior citizens. Unfortunately, Jerry's assignee, Sid Fields (Bill Erwin, who was nominated for an Emmy for his work in the episode), is crotchety; George's is too optimistic to waste time hanging out with George; and Elaine's has a goiter the size of a football, and once had an affair with Gandhi. Kramer and Newman have become partners in a money-making scheme: selling used vinyl to Bleeker Bob's Records. Trouble brews when Kramer and Newman show up at Mr. Fields's house to pick up some old records he was going to throw out, and George hits it off with the old man's Senegalese housekeeper. Grade: B
Episode Extras: Notes About Nothing; Inside Look; deleted scenes; alternate ending.
• "The Implant" I don't mind someone with a phony personality, but I gotta draw the line somewhere.—Jerry
Jerry's enamored with Sidra (Teri Hatcher, Desperate Housewives), a woman he met at the health club, until Elaine tells him her breasts are fake. Jerry refuses to accept Elaine's opinion, though, since she's never seen Sidra naked in the locker room. He goads Elaine into spying on her in the sauna. Kramer is convinced one of the health club's patrons is fatwa'ed novelist Salman Rushdie. George has been on nine dates with Betsy (Megan Mullally, Will & Grace), but hasn't gotten any action because circumstances conspire against him. He schemes to fly to Detroit on a "death in the family" discount fare for her aunt's funeral in order to win points with her, but runs into trouble when he offends her brother Timmy by double-dipping a potato chip at the wake. Grade: A Episode Extras: Commentary with writer Peter Mehlman; Notes About Nothing; Inside Look.
• "The Handicap Spot" Am I a hipster doofus?—Kramer
At the mall to buy a wedding gift for The Drake, Kramer talks George into parking his father Frank's (John Randolph/Jerry Stiller) car in a handicap spot. When the purloined spot causes a wheelchaired woman to have an accident, a vigilante mob camps around the car, waiting for the driver to return. George, Kramer, Jerry, and Elaine are trapped at the mall and miss the engagement party. Later, Frank is arrested for the parking violation just as he's receiving an award for his charitable work with the United Volunteers. Elaine and Jerry are furious when The Drake breaks it off with his fiancée, and gives her all of the wedding gifts, including the big-screen TV they bought him. Kramer visits the injured disabled woman, Lola, at St. Elizabeth's Hospital, and falls in love with her. He guilts George into chipping in to buy her a new wheelchair, but they buy her a used model that ends up being a lemon. Grade: A Episode Extras: Original version with John Randolph as Mr. Costanza; Introduction to the original version by Jason Alexander; syndicated version with Jerry Stiller as Mr. Costanza; Notes About Nothing (original version only); Inside Look.
• "The Junior Mint" All right, all right. Just let me finish my coffee. Then we'll go watch them slice this fat bastard up.—Jerry
Jerry has a date with a woman he met in the produce section of the grocery store, but can't remember her name. He only knows it rhymes with a part of the female anatomy. George's long-forgotten childhood account at the Lincoln Savings Bank has blossomed into $1900 that's burning a hole in his pocket. Elaine's ex-boyfriend, Roy (Sherman Howard, Day of the Dead), an abstract painter, is in the hospital for a spleenectomy. When Elaine sees he's lost a lot of weight, she develops a crush on him again. Kramer and Jerry get themselves invited to the operating theater to watch the procedure, and accidentally drop a Junior Mint into Roy's open abdomen. George decides to invest his windfall in Roy's art on the chance it may be worth something if the candy kills him. Grade: A+
Episode Extras: Commentary with Jerry Seinfeld; Notes About Nothing; Inside Look; deleted scene.
• "The Smelly Car" Amazing. I drive them to lesbianism, and he brings them back.—George
A valet leaves Jerry's car infused with rampant, mutant B.O. The noxious odor gets into Elaine's hair, jeopardizing her relationship with a new boyfriend, Carl (Nick Bakay, ESPN's SportsCenter). George bumps into Susan and her lesbian lover, Mona, while returning Rochelle Rochelle to the video store. He becomes obsessed with the idea that he drove her to lesbianism, yet is oddly attracted by her metamorphosis. Kramer initiates an illicit affair with Mona when he learns she's a golf instructor. Grade: A-
Episode Extras: Notes About Nothing; Inside Look.
• "The Pilot (Parts 1 and 2)" Told you God would never let me be successful. I never should have written that pilot. Now the show will be a big hit, we'll make millions, and I'll be dead. Dead, Jerry.—George
NBC is supposed to be casting Jerry, but Russell has become obsessed with Elaine after their single date. Unimpressed with his television career, Elaine tells him she might be able to respect him if he worked for Greenpeace or something. Kramer wants to be cast as Kramer, and can't understand why Jerry resists the idea. George makes an appointment with Dana Foley because he's afraid that if the show is picked up and he becomes successful, there will be some sort of cosmic retribution. His neurosis isn't helped when she notices a spot of discoloration on his lip, leading him to believe he'll soon be dead of cancer. During the casting, George is disturbed when Tom Pepper, the actor reading for the role of Kramer, steals a box a raisins. Kramer auditions for Kramer under the name Martin Van Nostrand, but his reading is interrupted by an acute and urgent spasm of his bowels. When he's unable to find a vacant restroom, he misses his window of opportunity and becomes constipated. Monk's Diner is under new ownership and Elaine is upset by the voluptuousness of the new waitresses. She applies for a job to prove they're discriminatory. Sandi, the method actress playing Elaine, wants to date Jerry then break up in order to immerse herself in the role.
On set for rehearsals, George gets under the director's (frequent Seinfeld director, Tom Cherones) skin, and decides to confront Tom Pepper about the stolen raisins. Jerry's freaking out because he can't act. Bran, Metamucil, Ex Lax, and Milk of Magnesia have all proven useless in solving Kramer's peristalsis problem, but he doesn't want to resort to an enema. Elaine files a report against Monk's with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, but discovers an innocuous explanation for the waitresses' ample proportions. Crazy Joe Davola shows up at the taping of the pilot, seeking revenge. Later, while watching the broadcast of the show, Elaine finds Morty's wallet stuck between the cushions of Jerry's couch. The future of Jerry is in jeopardy when Russell disappears to attack a whaler with Greenpeace, and his replacement, Rita Kirson, passes on the show. Grade: A+
Episode Extras: Commentary with production designer Tom Azzari and director/producer Tom Cherones; Notes About Nothing.
The Evidence
Over a decade after its initial broadcast, Season Four of Seinfeld still feels revolutionary. Individual episodes like "The Virgin," "The Contest," and "The Pilot" are among the best of the series' entire run, but it's the totality of the season—its dense, complex web of comedy—that makes it something special. To my knowledge, nothing this grand had ever been done on a network situation comedy before, and nothing like it has been pulled off since.
Consider the complexity of the season-long sitcom-development story arc. It bites the hands that feed it by satirizing network suits, the inanity of the average sitcom, and the rubes who tune in to them week after week. When Jerry and George first pitch ideas for the pilot episode of Jerry, one of Jerry's offerings is the plot of Seinfeld's second season episode, "The Chinese Restaurant." Considered groundbreaking television at that time because of its one-act play structure, the episode is a real-time chronicle of Jerry, George, and Elaine's 23-minute wait for a table at a restaurant. The NBC executives shepherding Jerry bristle at the concept, but find a follow-up pitch about a show in which Jerry is in an auto accident and the other driver is sentenced by a judge to be his butler side-splittingly funny. Their favoring a plotline that sounds only marginally more absurd that some of the crud on run-of-the-mill sitcoms over the plot of the episode that was, up until then, Seinfeld's most unique and critically-acclaimed, says much about how Larry David and his staff of writers viewed the suits to whom they answered and television audiences in general. The season is riddled with a comic disdain for the entire medium of television. George is laughed at when he tries to impress a woman by telling her he's writing a sitcom. One gets the feeling that Elaine is speaking for Larry David when she tells Russell Dalrymple in the David-penned episode "The Pilot" that she doesn't like TV and can't respect him because he's the president of NBC. Dalrymple's ensuing insanity elevates David's lampoon of Warren Littlefield into the realm of the absurd.
Larry David's attack on his bosses might come off as hypocritical—a network television sitcom poking fun at the stupidity of television sitcoms and network bureaucracy?—if not for how mercilessly he points his satire at himself. David may rake Warren Littlefield and network television's lowest-common-denominator, consensus decision-making over the coals, but he never spares himself an equal measure of abuse. He is always the butt of his own best jokes. There's something acutely funny about Jeremy Piven (Entourage), who plays the actor cast as George in Jerry, describing his character (and therefore George, and therefore Larry David) as a loser. Funnier still is Piven's line-for-line reading of dialogue from Season Three's "The Note," an episode in which George fears he's a latent homosexual because a massage from a man causes "it" to move. The slapstick antics of Cosmo Kramer may have been a crowd-pleaser, but I'll venture to say it is George Costanza who distinguishes Seinfeld from all other network comedies. Has there ever been a primary character on a TV comedy so unapologetically venal, self-centered, and pathetic? Okay, Phil Silvers's Sergeant Bilko may come close, but in Costanza we're talking about a guy who literally knocks down a clown and an old lady, then runs past children in order to exit a burning house (Season Five's "The Fire"). And the show's writers were absolutely relentless about not softening the character or making him more likable or roundly human as the show evolved. But, then again, David and his team came into Seinfeld with a very concrete understanding of what they considered funny, and almost no knowledge of the formulas and conventions of writing sitcom scripts. Given the right blend of talent, that dynamic is capable of producing the most innovative, least derivative material.
Laudable as Larry David's self-deprecatory humor is, George Costanza would be little more than a Woody Allen clone absent the quirks and carefully-timed line reads of Jason Alexander. The precision, timing, and meticulous construction of character by the entire lead cast is an essential contributor to the show's quality. As broad as Kramer's pratfalls and other antics are, watch closely and you'll see that Michael Richards brings a surprising subtlety to his reactions, and that he has an incredible acumen for performing in the moment, mining happenstance for laughs. Julia Louis-Dreyfus has a special talent for finding just the right inflection and cadence to make even mundane lines funny. By the fourth season, each of the leads has fallen into a comfortable rhythm, and they've congealed into a formidable comedy team. The idiosyncrasies of each character, and the intricately realized dynamics of their relationships with one another, provide nearly limitless comic possibilities. As a matter of fact, one of Seinfeld's less obvious charms is the accuracy with which it recreates the texture of friendship. The show is often absurd, its characters sometimes caricatures, but its world is familiar—even to those of us who aren't thirtysomething singles living in New York—because we recognize, from our own friendships, the shared experience and short-hand language that governs the characters' interactions. Seinfeld may be over-the-top, but it's also somehow true-to-life. No small part of the credit for that dynamic belongs to the finely-honed comedy team of Jason Alexander, Michael Richards, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus. Their complex dance of sharing funny-man/straight-man responsibilities makes the show's foundation of camaraderie feel surprisingly real.
Jerry Seinfeld, too, is at the top of his form. The least of the show's actors, by the fourth season he's gotten good enough to settle into a kind of referee role, the center of calm around which much of the show's frantic comedy swirls. Seinfeld almost comes off as unnecessary, but don't be fooled. He brings three essentials to the show. First, he provides a warm, inviting face for Larry David's cold and cynical comedy. Second, his intelligent, wry wit, less manic than the three other principals, provides ballast for some of the show's more outrageous happenings—he is the somewhat normal door through which we enter this Bizarro World. Third, his willingness to let others on Seinfeld have some of the show's biggest laughs is a rarity among television stars. It's the source of the show's incredible density, which is what keeps the episodes fresh over repeat viewings. Every episode of Seinfeld has as much comedy as three or four episodes of your average sitcom because the episodes trace plotlines for each of the central characters. The way plotlines eventually merge at episodes' ends is one of the great joys of the series. Seinfeld's generosity extends well beyond his co-stars, too. The show boasts some of the best character actor work of any network television show, largely because bit players are allowed to come on and deliver genuinely funny work. It's obvious from the supplemental material on these DVDs that Seinfeld, Alexander, Richards, and Louis-Dreyfus delighted in the work done by guest stars and character performers, rather than being threatened by it. The end result is a show that delivers a rich and detailed universe all its own. The Simpsons may rival Seinfeld in the vastness of its rogues' gallery of characters, but no other live-action situation comedy comes close.
For all my talk of the big-picture brilliance of Season Four's construction, its individual episodes are hilarious in and of themselves. "The Contest" is perhaps the most famous episode of the entire series. The masturbation-centered plotline was, of course, revolutionary in 1992, but the wit and élan of Larry David's script makes the episode more than a curious relic from the days before risqué premium-channel shows like Sex and the City and Queer as Folk. "The Contest" remains a genuinely funny 23 minutes of television. "The Outing" is not only responsible for launching the catch-phrase "…not that there's anything wrong with that" into American pop culture, it also manages to be funny and gay-friendly, while smartly satirizing political correctness. But satirizing political correctness is the show's specialty. Prior to Seinfeld, one has to go back to All in the Family to find a show so willing to speak the culturally unspeakable, and to so successfully translate taboo into laughs. In "The Handicap Spot," for example, Kramer says of Lola, "She has everything I've always dreamed of in a woman…except the walking." The line is both undeniably funny and difficult to imagine coming from the mouth of a character in any other sitcom without sparking outrage. "The Junior Mint" pushes boundaries of good taste as George actively lobbies for Jerry not to intervene to save Roy's life because it would mean no posthumous appreciation in value of the paintings he has sunk his money into. "The Bubble Boy" has the audacity to defy our expectations by giving us a rude and abrasive victim of an immune deficiency disorder who orders Susan Ross to take off her top, and tries to strangle George. Virginity, the elderly, breast implants, body odor, nose-picking, and air travel are among the topics that provide comic fodder for other Season Four episodes. A broad swath of social comment and dissection of human behavior, it's all hilarious stuff. Even "The Trip," whose Los Angeles setting makes it the least satisfying episode of the season, can only be described as weak in comparison to the rest of the episodes. Its convoluted goings-on pack more laughs and a greater degree of sophistication than most sitcoms. Kramer's jig-dancing glee at his release from police custody because the Smog Strangler has claimed another victim is as funny a gag as any in the Fourth Season, and just the sort of ultra-dark moral territory into which Seinfeld alone was brave enough, among network sitcoms, to tread.
As with the two previous volumes of Seinfeld on DVD, the episodes of Season Four have been remastered in high-definition and look phenomenal. The full screen image is significantly sharper than on broadcast television. Colors are bold and fully saturated, and blacks are rock solid. There's a slight patina of grain, entirely appropriate to the source. The image is gloriously free of damage or decay. Audio is presented in a fine Dolby Stereo mix that delivers clear dialogue. The show's bass and mouth-pop theme is fuller and more vibrant than on broadcast television. Audio commentaries are presented in Dolby Stereo Surround, providing plenty of space for the show's original soundtrack to nestle behind the commentary participants. The discs offer subtitles in English, French, Spanish, and Portuguese. But that's not all. Audio commentaries are subtitled in both Spanish and Portuguese, and text commentaries are available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.
Paying homage to the show's production design, stylized versions of the interiors of Jerry's apartment, Monk's Diner, the plane from "The Airport," and Jerry's car from "The Smelly Car," provide the theme for each disc's animated menus. Episodes can be played individually, or via a Play All option. Each episode has its own menu from which its supplements can be accessed. For maximum convenience, there is also an Extras menu that enables one to play all the episodes that have commentaries, or all the Inside Look featurettes. About the only thing the discs don't contain is an index of scenes. The episodes are divided into chapters, but you'll have to use your remote to jump ahead.
Most of the set's ample supplements are episode-specific. Every single episode has a text commentary. The yellow text appears in the subtitle space at the bottom of the screen, and provides light information about the show, or veers off into tangential trivia about topics raised in the characters' dialogue. Eight of the episodes have audio commentary tracks by a variety of the show's cast and crew. The most satisfying of them are those recorded for "The Trip," and "The Airport" by Larry Charles (The Tick), the writer/producer responsible for some of the show's darkest and most morbid material—both episodes he walks us through in this set, for example, feature notorious killers. Charles is conversational, and his tracks are filled with behind-the-scenes anecdotes, and recollections of where storyline ideas came from and how they evolved. Writer Peter Mehlman's track on "The Implant" is nearly as entertaining and informative as Charles's. Mehlman wrote some of the quirkiest, most absurd of the show's jokes and plotlines, and reveals in his commentary that both George's attempt to get a discounted airline ticket for a death in someone else's family, and the controversy over the double-dipped potato chip, were based on events in his own life. Production designer Tom Azzari and director Tom Cherones team for a solid commentary on "The Pilot." The track is excellent but more serious, delving into the complex logistics of producing that particular episode. Unfortunately, the commentaries by Jason Alexander, Michael Richards, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus for "The Cheever Letters" and "The Outing" are less satisfying. The tone is jovial, the trio has a great time reminiscing about the episodes, and they do a fine job of pointing out performance nuances, but the tracks are mostly fluff and not nearly as funny as one would hope. Abandoned by Larry David, who'd recorded tracks with him for the first set of DVDs, Jerry Seinfeld's commentaries for "The Contest" and "The Junior Mint" are mostly disastrous. He does little more than laugh at some of the episodes' gags, point out the occasional plot mechanism, and leave long gaps of silence. I'll give him this, though: His comment during a frantic exchange of dialogue between himself and Richards in "The Contest," that if we think Kramer is funny on TV, we "ought to see that face from three inches away," is maybe the single funniest moment in all of the commentaries.
Fifteen of the episodes are accompanied by an Inside Look featurette. The pieces run anywhere from two to nine minutes in length, and are culled from cast and crew interviews shot specifically for the DVD releases. Sometimes they give entertaining and informative background information, as when Larry Charles relates the tale of one of the show's writers, in the middle of pitching a mediocre story idea, going off on a tangent about a heated argument between himself and friend over a misprinted answer on a Trivial Pursuit card (the anecdote would provide a crucial and memorable plot point in "The Bubble Boy" episode). Another of the highlights is footage of Fran Drescher (The Nanny) sitting in for Estelle Harris, who was not available the evening "The Contest" was taped. Other Inside Looks are brief and fluffy. The featurette for "The Visa," for instance, is nothing more than character actor Brian George (Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery) recalling his joy at the tantalizing possibility that Babu Bhatt's return might mean a recurring character spot on the show, only to discover that poor Babu is deported to Pakistan by episode's end.
Twelve of the episodes come with deleted scenes. "The Old Man" and "The Airport" each have an alternate ending.
Each disc in the set has some supplements in addition to the episode-specific ones. "The Breakthrough Season" is a 20-minute featurette housed on Disc One. Its focus is the success of Seinfeld's fourth season, and the show's rise to the anchor position of NBC's Thursday night line-up. For its first three-and-a-half seasons, the show survived on the acclaim of critics, the loyalty of NBC brass, and a very small but devoted fan base. This longer-than-normal rise to popularity is a major reason the show's writers and producers were able to forge and maintain such a unique tone and style for the show. The cast and crew, as well as NBC executives Warren Littlefield and Rick Ludwin, all contribute interviews to "The Breakthrough Season." The first disc also contains a five-minute parody of Regis & Kathy Lee in which Jerry and Elaine mock a conversation the daytime talk show hosts had about Seinfeld.
Disc Two contains "Not That There's Anything Wrong With That," a 21-minute bloopers reel. "Master of His Domain" is eight minutes of unused Seinfeld stand-up material shot for the openings and closings of the episodes.
Under the heading "Sponsored by Vandelay Industries," the Extras menu on Disc Three contains three minutes of NBC promos for the show. The disc also houses four minutes of promos aired during the 1992 Olympics, and a gallery of photos set to the show's main theme that runs as a two-minute featurette.
Disc Four contains no supplements other than the episode-specific ones. It does, however, offer two versions of "The Handicap Spot." Larry David's small obsession with continuity first showed itself in the second season episode, "The Revenge, " in which the entirely off-camera Newman, in his first appearance on the show, threatens to commit suicide by jumping from his apartment window. When originally broadcast, David himself provided the voice of Newman. After actor Wayne Knight fully embodied Jerry's postman nemesis in subsequent episodes, David brought him in to re-loop Newman's dialogue for syndicated airings of "The Revenge" (both versions of the episode appear in the first volume of Seinfeld DVDs). The alteration of "The Handicap Spot" runs along these lines. John Randolph (Serpico) was cast as Frank Costanza in the character's first appearance on the show. When the role was subsequently recast with Jerry Stiller as the volatile patriarch of the Costanza family, Larry David went back and reshot Randolph's scenes for syndication. The changes, unlike those made to "The Revenge," are more than cosmetic. Though the dialogue, sets, and costumes are exactly the same in both versions, it's fascinating to see how the two actors' radically different approaches to Frank Costanza influenced Jason Alexander's performance in each version of the scene.
Closing Statement
Why should anyone, even fans of Seinfeld, buy the show on DVD when it's still running in syndication? Well, for one thing, the episodes look and sound far better than they do on broadcast television. Plus, the vast array of extras aren't to be missed—this is how TV shows should be released on DVD. The most important reason to pick up these discs, however, is that continuity is far more essential in the Seinfeld universe than it is in your garden-variety sitcom. Seeing the episodes in order greatly enhances the experience. Subtle connections between episodes are often lost in syndication because the shows are broadcast in random order.
The first two volumes of Seinfeld represented some of the best presentations of TV on DVD. Season Four is even better because it contains some of the most memorable episodes of the series, as well as a smartly constructed season-long story arc. The good news is, we still have David Puddy, the Soup Nazi, Jackie Chiles, J. Peterman, George Steinbrenner, Mickey Abbott, Tim Whatley, Kenny Bania, Joe Mayo, Joel Rifkin, Poppy, Jake Jarmel, The Maestro, Lloyd Braun, Bizarro Jerry, the Van Buren Boys, puffy shirts, cigar store indians, lip readers, belligerent doormen, shrinkage, big salads, muffin tops, tainted wedding invitations, reverse peepholes, Kenny Rogers Roasters, Serenity Now, the Summer of George, Festivus, and much more to look forward to in future volumes.
The Verdict
Seinfeld: Season Four is the best. The best.
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