HIMYM Review: Band or DJ

How I Met Your Mother 

'Band or DJ?' Review

Note: Over the Christmas period HIMYM has been signed up for a 9th season. Whether or not Season 8 will continue production as the 'final' season with the next one tying loose ends or involving the mother herself is yet to be known. 

So we have arrived at the beginning of the second half of season 8. After the delightful mid-season finale just before Christmas does this episode follow in the same footsteps? Fortunately I can confirm that it does. This episodes plot points were very well produced in order to progress the main "Mother" story arc forward. 

Robin and Barneys plot tonight was simple yet remained somewhat interesting with the return of Robins father.

Barney's cowardly behaviour in the presence of Robin Sr was rather funny, particularly with his over exaggerated facial expressions and anxiety. It was also interesting to see that, through Barney's whiny self, that Robin seems to be wearing the trousers in this relationship. But do not worry too much, Neil Patrick Harris balanced Barney's character very well with his moral reasoning coming into play on behalf of Robin as well. He still remained a proper gentleman by the end of the episode.

Thankfully Robins character was far more toned down and reminiscent of herself from the earlier seasons this time. It was far easier to watch and nice to be able to take note of the breadth of the storyline, thanks to the lack of her shrill and melodramatic behaviour, which we have seen in a few too many episodes of season 8. 

As for Robin Sr. his role was a little bit hit and miss. His attitude towards the whole Barney/Robin situation  developed quite interestingly with his supposedly altered view on life. There were some funny Canadian references and an enjoyable moment in Barneys apartment. But with some fairly sub par popular culture jokes and an unusual way to tie up the plot, it was a slight shame.

Moving on to the remainder of the cast, the plot between Ted, Marshall and Lily was a lot stronger and should be considered as this episodes main storyline. 

Although this begins with what looks like a simple competition between Ted and Lily ultimately has a far more deeper emotional meaning behind the constant stubbornness of Ted. Some fans may be disappointed in the revelation, as Teds newly developed character, based on the events of the previous episode, becomes somewhat torn away. But it was an understandable, believable situation. Something that perhaps will create some intriguing tension among the group in  later episodes.

Lily finally had her moment to shine a little bit, which was fantastic as her character has been seriously underplayed recently. A particular moment in conversation with Ted was quite spine chilling to say the least. But her own revelation was certainly in keeping with Lily's character, although this was to an extremely heightened degree. This could be another potential foreshadowing of what may lie ahead, but let's hope not.

Unfortunately Marshall was very much left on the back burner in this episode. He did try to involve himself in Ted's situation, resulting in failure, but at least he had a funny moment with his son, which was a nice touch as it was humourous without going beyond the boundaries of ridiculousness.  

Although there were a few bumps in the road with Barney and Robins storyline, this episode once again felt like one of the early episodes when the show began. Carter Bays and Craig Thomas managed to set the tone  brilliantly with small elements of humour, surrounded within an engrossing emotional story. The ending will definitely keep you watching for sure, as the inevitable anticipation begins to grow.

  

8.2/10