Happy Endings Season 3 Episode 4 Recap: There We Go
Phew. I was worried there for a little bit. I’d built up this show so much and the last two episodes were so mediocre for Happy Endings. Tonight’s episode of Happy Endings is a return to form in many ways, was as manic as ever and there was also some tenderness to be felt.
When I’d first heard that this episode would revolve around the group of friends having met on The Real World, I’d jump to conclusions and already written off the episode. Maybe it benefited from my already low expectations, but this episode – and make note that ONLY Happy Endings could’ve pulled off this plotline – excelled because of this ridiculous plot. The format of the episode felt very much like a Bottle Episode of Friends (Bottle Episodes are the episodes when the 6 of them were always together, and they usually ended up being the best ones) minus Dave. But it worked…it worked well, and this was the first time this season we’ve seen the cast together for most of the episode and it was refreshing and comforting. Why aren’t the 6 of them together more often?
The episode began focused solely on Dave & Alex and I was ready throw my hands in the air and wave them like I just did not care because these two characters make me feel that way. But, thankfully, the episode’s turning point was when Jane switched Alex’s turkey for hers. I found this very subtle and ridiculous Jane moment so hilarious I lost all control. I’m still laughing. I find it so odd when Happy Endings makes me laugh out loud because recent TV comedies make me laugh in my head but very rarely LOL. I smirk or sometimes laugh-out-loud with Parks & Recreation and New Girl, but no show makes me laugh quite like Happy Endings. When Happy Endings is on, like with that scene, its better than it’s competition.
Then came the moment of truth: The Real World plot was introduced. Everything about it worked: Penny’s “The Rachel”, Jane Stefani, Brad’s dreadlocks. EVERYTHING. And it shouldn’t have, it really shouldn’t have because someone still having The Rachel in 2002 is ridiculous but it worked. And then came this line: “It was 2002. It was such a crazy time, we were all still reeling from the events surrounding the film Vanilla Sky” ONLY Happy Endings can get away with a Vanilla Sky reference. As the episode went on we saw more from The Real World episode and, in turn, more of everyone’s reactions towards it and how he or she used to be. The most enticing flashback had to be Penny’s feelings for Dave. I do hope the show ultimately explore this relationship; it may feel a little Joey/Rachel but it can only be a step up from Alex/Dave who are the worst.
The episode ended in a very Happy Endings like manner. Each lunatic was sitting at the table about to enjoy their Thanksgiving meal and there was a nice cutaway of these 6 friends just enjoying each other’s company. It’s rare, but when Happy Endings shows its heart, it’s kind of sweet.