HIMYM Review: Weekend At Barney's

How I Met Your Mother

'Weekend At Barneys' Review

An episode that, despite the name, bore little resemblance to the film it looked to copy

OK so here we are, reaching filler episode number two. But unlike last weeks mediocre episode, this one actually progressed the story a little and was rather funny. Based upon the promotional picture (above) I immediately assumed that this episode was going to be extremely slapstick and cliched, an excuse just to waste time. But thankfully the storylines were solid and provided more laughs than I have seen in while.

The main storyline revolved around Ted and Barney, with Barney attempting to make sure Ted would find a suitable girl to take to the wedding now that crazy Jeanette was out of the picture... for the time being. As a result of this, a certain book resurfaced in order to assist Ted. 

Barneys assistance with Ted was pretty funny with their typically over the top boy like procedure. 

A particularly funny moment arose with Ted arguing with Barney through a hidden earpiece, which downright confused the girl he was hitting on. It was silly but still remained humourous watching Teds begrudging nature but also his quiet desperation for a girlfriend.

The only gripe within this whole premise was with the revival of said book. It initially  destroyed the specialty and uniqueness of Barney's final play "The Robin", which was a shame. But luckily it was saved by Barney's heartfelt speech to Robin which confirmed that, although he has progressed, he is still somewhat stuck in his ways. It wasn't exactly a groundbreaking revelation but was definitely a very sweet moment and Barney's charm came through wonderfully, which of course Robin couldn't resist.

As for Robin herself she did not have any particularly large part to play except for the final moments with Barney, which was a little disappointing. But at least the writers didn't try to shove in a silly side story just for on screen presence from her.

In the case for Marshall and Lily, their story developed from the concluding moments for Lily in last weeks episode, being offered the position of an art specialist for 'The Captain'. 

Unfortunately Lily remained a little on the back burner which was ironic seeing as this was her moment to shine.

Instead Marshall took the limelight in this particular plot with his hilariously cringe worthy art jokes, similarly based on his atrocious fish gags he did over a few previous seasons. The skittle incident too was brilliantly delivered as it happened during such an awkward moment. It was such a simple concept and rather subtle, which made it all the more hilarious.

Although it was a slight disappointment about the ladies minor roles in the episode, overall it was pretty great. The final moment with Ted outside his apartment (a scene which was foreshadowed in PS. I Love You) was particularly pleasing as the filler looks to have reached its end. Ultimately we seem to be getting ever so close to meeting the mother. It is such a shame that after this great episode, the next one wont be on the air until March 18th.            

8/10