After last week’s lusty steambath, this week "L" stands for… lousy, lame, lamentable. I skipped the all-time finale of The Wire to watch panoramicshots of helmeted women riding bikes and unfunny tent-pitchingpratfalls?
The ladies have all flown up to the Pacific Northwest for abenefit bike-athon, the purpose of which, Alice chirps, is "curing cancer and onenight stands." "Go boobs!" shrieks Molly (Clementine Ford, pictured), like she’s cheering for USC at theRose Bowl, possibly the ickiest line of the evening. Other candidates: "My p—yis so sore!" spoken by ever-classy Jenny as she dismounts her bike. Or Shane’s"Breathe through your mouth." Were these really cringe-inducing, or am I just ina crummy mood?
Let’s start with my least favorite storyline, the romancebetween Shane and Molly. They begin the episode estranged as Shane,understandably, tries to escape the straight girl (I still think Molly’s justdabbling) who, after disappointing her in bed, made some spectacularly ruderemarks about her intelligence. Molly pedals after her, shouts her love, andpromises to start reciprocating in the sack, likening the learning curve of"riding a girl" to that of riding a bike — the awful double entendre we wereall waiting for. Proving Molly’s point about her intelligence, Shane succumbs.The two are now riding partners, though not for long, I predict.
Farmore intriguing: the ever trickier machinations of enigmatic Adele.Unlike the other women, who seem incapable of hammering a stake in theearth without falling over, Adele erects a huge, elaborate salmon-pinktent as a trap for Jenny and Niki. It is a pleasure palace so rosy-huedand irresistible that the feckless lovebirds promptly strap on a purpledildo, turn on the videocam, and make a dirty movie while spider-girlAdele waits outside, smoking and plotting. I can see where this isgoing, and while I feel a little sorry for ditzy Niki, I’ll relishwatching Jenny absorb whatever humiliation and disgrace her treacherousassistant has planned.
But the Big Moment of the evening wasunquestionably the twist in the Bette-Tina saga. The whole crew is sittingaround the campfire discussing infidelity, Bette and Tina exchange meaningfulglances, Alice runs on at the mouth, Niki giggles. Business asusual, no? Except tonight, Jodi finally twigs that Bette has been somehow untrue, storms off,and zips her out of the tent. Cue to beautiful Bette sobbing on the shore of alake. I don’t know what she’s so sad about. She appears to have executed apainful, necessary break-up without having to say, or sign, a word. We shouldall be so lucky. Is there anything now keeping her now from (boring) bliss withher true love Tina?
So, PopWatchers, how do you think this season’s plotswill resolve themselves as the show pedals toward the finale in twoweeks? And what do you think of today’s news that The L Word is coming back next winter for a sixth and final season of just eight episodes?
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Can we get someone who appreciates the show to write these L word summaries? we would have been better served had jennifer just stuck to watching the wires. Bitter, am I? Yes, particularly since the episode was halfway decent and I think the touching Dana moment…nary a word on breast cancer?
Jennifer, you are awful. You really are. Shame on you.
Agree with previous blogger – this review does not do justice to the episode, and even if the writer hated the episode (which she clearly does), at least mention or pay some nod to the breast cancer theme.
Agree that Shane and Molly are horrific. But am glad that Tibette are finally back.
I was excited to see we’ll have a Season 6, albeit a short one. Please, please, please just let bette and tina be happy together.
I have to agree with the first two posters. So much happened in the episode that I was looking forward to getting another opinion on, and instead we got cynacism and boredom.
Seriously, these reviews are all too cynical. I agree with everyone else here. I thought last night’s episode was fun and, after seeing the previews for next week, I can’t wait to see what’s coming up. If EW can’t find a writer who is a little more appreciative of this show, I’ll offer to write reviews… for free.
Also, I like Shane and Molly. I think Molly is the first character (since Carmen) to challenge Shane. I like their chemistry as well.
Right on, Jennifer. I honestly cannot believe we’re in for another season of bad dialogue, caricatures, unbelievable storylines, and plot inconsistencies. I’ve watched the show to support “lesbian work,” but good heavens it’s just a bad show–like One Tree Hill but with lesbians.
Also, I honestly Bette/Tina are toxic. Ugh.
I agree about these posts. Ever since Nick left, these commentaries are purely perfunctory, not offering any analysis of the episodes, let alone of the show’s arc on a larger scale, and not scratching the surface of being comprehensive. I want Nick back!
Bring Nicholas back! Can we start a petition?
When is Nick back?
Jenn, at least have some respect for the show. If you hate it so much, don’t write about it. I’d hope EW should be able to find a better, more aware writer. Agree with the first poster – Shame on you Jennifer.
This has been a much better season than the last one, but that doesn’t keep last night’s episode from being awful and Jennifer from being correct. This is a recap, not a cheering session. If you people really loved the show you’d be extremely irritated by an episode as bad as this one.
I actually really liked this episode. Is it just residual love from this season as a whole that I have a hard time hating individual installments? Probably. But anytime I can get the girls in a scene together let alone an entire show, I’m one happy camper. Even if they ARE just peddling down the road to a song fit to open Lilith Fair. (what was that song anyway? loved it!)
•My favorite has to be the back to back “I’ve ALWAYS loved (insert Bette/Tina)” scenes. I know it sucks for Jodi and I like her as well. But I’m a loud & proud BetTina fan and am ready for them to have their happy family…however long it lasts!
•Surprisingly, Jenny’s relationship with Niki has warmed to her a bit. A BIT!..let’s not get crazy! How did Adele know what was on the tape without watching. Was she assuming? Or is Niki in on it? Hmm. Although Niki really doesn’t seem to have the smarts to be that diabolical.
•And I’m kinda diggin’ Shane/Molly. So far. To me, she’s MUCH better that Paige!
I actually really liked this episode. Is it just residual love from this season as a whole that I have a hard time hating individual installments? Probably. But anytime I can get the girls in a scene together let alone an entire show, I’m one happy camper. Even if they ARE just peddling down the road to a song fit to open Lilith Fair. (what was that song anyway? loved it!)
•My favorite has to be the back to back “I’ve ALWAYS loved (insert Bette/Tina)” scenes. I know it sucks for Jodi and I like her as well. But I’m a loud & proud BetTina fan and am ready for them to have their happy family…however long it lasts!
•Surprisingly, Jenny’s relationship with Niki has warmed to her a bit. A BIT!..let’s not get crazy! How did Adele know what was on the tape without watching. Was she assuming? Or is Niki in on it? Hmm. Although Niki really doesn’t seem to have the smarts to be that diabolical.
•And I’m kinda diggin’ Shane/Molly. So far. To me, she’s MUCH better that Paige!
I actually really liked this episode. Is it just residual love from this season as a whole that I have a hard time hating individual installments? Probably. But anytime I can get the girls in a scene together let alone an entire show, I’m one happy camper. Even if they ARE just peddling down the road to a song fit to open Lilith Fair. (what was that song anyway? loved it!)
•My favorite has to be the back to back “I’ve ALWAYS loved (insert Bette/Tina)” scenes. I know it sucks for Jodi and I like her as well. But I’m a loud & proud BetTina fan and am ready for them to have their happy family…however long it lasts!
•Surprisingly, Jenny’s relationship with Niki has warmed to her a bit. A BIT!..let’s not get crazy! How did Adele know what was on the tape without watching. Was she assuming? Or is Niki in on it? Hmm. Although Niki really doesn’t seem to have the smarts to be that diabolical.
•And I’m kinda diggin’ Shane/Molly. So far. To me, she’s MUCH better that Paige!
hmm…sorry for the multi-posts!! My bad!
Oh, and. Thinking of Dana reminded me of how much I loved her relationship with Alice. Which reminded me of how much I’m not buying Alice with Tasha. Am I just holding on too tight too the old Alice?
I definitely agree with the other posters. When is Nicholas coming back? I thought he was only to be gone for 2 episodes and its been 3 already! eek! No offense Jennifer but Nicholas has been with us for a while and I used to treasure reading what he has to say every Monday morning.
I AM SOOO HAPPY THAT THIS SHOW IS FINALLY GONNA BE PUT OUT OF ITS MISERY! WOO-HOO! I CANT WAIT FOR THE LAST SEASON! (and yes, i intend to continually watch it because I get seperation anxiety from t.v. shows…)
I too miss the Dana/Alice scenes…they were hilarious. Here’s hoping for Alice to get another “visit” from Dana like she did in season 4.
As for Bette and Tina…keep them together through the series end (yay season 6!). The back and forth needs to be over for good.
I hope we get some sort of angry jodi/signing fight…because i felt very let down without getting to see any type of arguement over jodi’s revelation about bette and tina…
And Adele is scary and evil. i’m not invested in nikki, so i don’t really care what happens to her…but do i dare say that i’m starting to sorta feel bad for jenny? although she has been 6 year old diva this season (at times, its so ridiculous, its funny)…but she seems less complicated this season, like maybe she is finally growing up a little. i’d hate to see her go back to her tortured days…and what’s up with nikki asking shane about her relationship with jenny? not all friends hook up…
i think molly is pretty awkward and funny. I like the underlying humor…she’s got some good comic chops. And I agree, he and Shane have good chemistry…way better than paige (ew)
This was a great episode. And I don’t really care who is writing this blog because at the end of the day, it’s all about whether YOU love the show – and I do. But to answer one of the questions, “What was Bette so sad about”? Well, it made the night for me. I think she is just so lost and can’t believe how bad she has hurt people. Then the fact that Alice went down the list of her cheating, really made her examine whether she can be faithful – even if she does get back with Tina. Is she setting herself up to hurt Tina again? I think that is what has gotten her so upset and left her speechless. It’s heartbreaking, but I love it. Plus, this show has made me realize how much I am like Bette so watching it has been like going to therapy for me. As she works through her issues, I learn the lessons. Glad to see so many people still enjoy the show.
I agree with some of you that Nick offers more interesting recaps but Jennifer is just doing her job. Give her a break. If you read the title it says “The L Word recap”. She’s just offering her opinion, you don’t have to agree with it. Besides, there are other posters on here (who are fans) that will probably be happy to discuss the episode with you (including me). I didn’t agree with the recap but I liked reading the other fans’ comments.
Anyway, I loved the episode. Whenever the whole group gets together and does something I think it makes the scene/ep much better. I loved that they were there to remember Dana and show their support for breast cancer. Jenny and Nikki always make me laugh, pretty much no matter what they’re doing. I’m kind of warming up to Shane and Molly. I love Alice and Tasha together so I thought the scene in their tent was cute. I like Jodi but I’m all about Tina and Bette. I’m excited for next week’s episode. And yay for a sixth season!
In answer to your question…yes, you are in a crummy mood!
Did anyone else have a good chuckle when never have i ever slept with a girl came up, and tom sorta looked at max and shrugged, unsure if he should take a drink or not. you gotta love the humor in this show…
Agree – when they all drank after Shane said to Tina that she never saw this (Tina/Bette hookup) coming…classic!
Agree – when they all drank after Shane said to Tina that she never saw this (Tina/Bette hookup) coming…classic!
After rewatching this ep, things I loved…
•Tina’s “WTF” when she saw Niki at the race. Her expression was priceless.
•Alice and Shane’s unconditional support of Tina’s love for Bette. “You belong together.”
•Shane, referencing why she never hooked up with Jenny, says “Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should.” Sounded funny coming from Shane.
•Molly’s “I’ve never flown to the Pacific NW to chase a girl…” speech. Advanced placement gay. Graduate level gay. Hokey? Maybe. But I’ve decided that it endeared her to me a little.
•The chapel scene. I miss Erin Daniels.
•The scenes, during a break in the riding, where they (mostly Niki, really) were videoing everyone. Alot of the shots seemed pretty organic.
•Alice’s “These rides are for curing cancer and one night stands”. Classic Alice.
I’m glad i’m not the only one who rewatched the episode…I agree…the whole AP gay, graduate gay, doctorate gay was kinda funny…and props to Pam grier…she was kinda funny yelling at bette in the tent after the Jodi blow up. Plus, anytime Tina has to deal with Jenny or Nikki generally is amusing…
While I think each core cast member brings something to the show, Bette and Tina have always been the heart and soul of this show for me. Yes, tlw is a lesbian show. It’s eye-opening, provacative, funny and at times, over the top. But at the end of the day it’s really about the relationships between people and the challenges we face. Bette and tina are two intelligent, beautiful, insightful and probably most importantly, flawed people. And I think the flaws are what we identify with – it makes them seem real. They are just two people who love each other and are trying to be happy together. With all the challenges we have in our lives, God knows it ain’t always easy to share a life with someone!
Alice and Tasha – moving in together? Really? Does anyone else think Nikki is gonna make a play for Shane?
ICAM about Bette & Tina being the heart of the show. I’ve said it before and who am I not to repeat myself (as we saw in my multi-post snafu further down on the board). They are the Ross and Rachel of the show. You always knew they would end up together…no matter how many Monas, Emilys, Julies, Tags or Paulos were in the picture.
I guess again I am the minority and like Alice & Tasha together. But I can tell they will not last because Tash does not know what to do now she is out of the military and I think she wanted to see her old friends but Alice wanted to stay with hers (I smell conflict coming). Sorry, but not a Bette & Tina (a wuss)fan but since next season is the last it would be nice they get back together or at least finally decide they are better off alone, friends and co-parents. I felt so sorry for Jodie. Dying to know what Adele has up her sleeve(btw,I have bangs too now). Looks like Niki has the hots for Shane. Funny scene when Shane & Alice went into Tinas tent & Alice said wow, I never saw you & Bette hooking up again and all three took a drink from their beers…LOL However, I do agree with most of the bloggers who said this Popwatch could be so much better. Ugly Bettys recaps(I miss that show) are 2 pages. Even ANTM and that is a reality show!
To whomever called out the Shane/Alice/Tina simultaneous swig after Shane’s “I never saw this coming” line – thank you! That was my favorite part too. Had to watch it again. I was amazed at the intensity of the scene when Bette is being called out on her cheating at the campfire and Jodi’s realization of the situation. You knew it was going to hurt when it all went down, but Bette and Tina’s declaration of love for each other and Bette’s lost soul on the dock were perfection for me. Hooray for a mini-6th season!