How I Met
Your Mother
The Final
Page Review
Has the
mid season finale saved the show?
( This review will focus on each part separately, but
provide a singular overall score )
So my
wishful thinking prediction in my last review became a reality, and thank god
for that. This mid season finale was absolutely brilliant, particularly the
second half. This two part episode was reminiscent of the old days with a
moving story, not only for Robin and Barney, but Ted as well.
Part One
The
first half of the show got off to a great start with a subtle gag that
expanded throughout the episode which unconsciously became a key component of
something much bigger. The gag allowed for Barney's character to be back
on form with his silly, obsessive behaviour. It was somewhat reminiscent of his
fist bump incident in season 4 at Stella's house, but it worked great, watching
the group constantly manipulate him.
The format
of the storyline was similar to the older episodes: For once in quite a while
Ted had a fairly prominent role, realising his pitfalls in life through his
constant need for approval. It was interesting to go back through Ted's college
history, understanding how he decided to become an architect. It was not
exactly how I envisioned it, but it worked well in understanding Ted's need to
remove his emotional flaws.
Although not
as prominent, Robin was placed under the same spotlight, evaluating her
emotional vulnerability and test of character in a situation of power. It was
unfortunate that Robin's shrill behaviour towards Patrice remained intact
because it detracted from the seriousness of the situation.
As for
Marshall and Lily's little side story, it was a nice little addition,
particularly with the inclusion of Seth Green as the creepy, clingy friend, but
there was nothing overly outstanding and a the few of humour was lacking.
Barney's whiny behaviour behind Marshall and Lily was more funny than anything
else.
The final
moments of part one were very interesting to say the least, but was ultimately
deeply disappointing with the information that slowly opened up. BUT part two
puts it all into context and salvages it completely.
Part
Two
Moving on to
the second half, it once again remained consistent with the old format in terms
of storyline with a deeply serious situation for both Robin and Ted.
In the
case for Ted it was a true test of friendship. It was great to see him weighing
up the problem with his typical selfless behaviour, although it began to
diminish as the clock kept ticking.
As for
Robin, after all that she has been through, particularly in the last season, it
was interesting to see her do the same as Ted, but in the respects of taking
the risk of putting herself on the line, not knowing the consequences.
Marshall and
Lily's side story, once again was simply satisfactory, but nothing to rave
about. It primarily focused on their behaviour towards their son Marvin. It was
simply a repeat of situations in previous episodes, so the time seemed a
little wasted. It was surprising that the two weren't much of a component with
Ted's dilemma. Marshall does provide some assistance (tying into a very small
loose end from Season 7's No
Pressure), and although interesting to witness his defensive behaviour
towards his best friend, it was not overly developed.
As for
Barney, he was non-existent right until the final moments. But these final
moments were spectacular and joyfully moving. This point was the pinnacle of
why us HIMYM fans adore Barney Stinson (Which couldn't have
been done with out Neil Patrick Harris of course). It was so typically him and
the result was fantastic.
I shall say no more, fearing that I might end up spoiling it for some. But what I can say is that it was a tremendous return to form. Yes the side stories weren't exactly strong, but it didn't matter in comparison to the larger scheme of things. Annoyingly after this finale, the previous two episodes have to be somewhat re-evaluated (although I will maintain my original scores), but it pleased me greatly that the show was salvaged.
My faith has
been restored in the show and if this finale is a forecast of what is to come
in the second half of the season, I am definitely looking forward to the rest
of this journey, one that's nearly reached its final stop.
8.8/10
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